
David Meltzer, chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute, was interviewed by Roy Kessel of the Sports Philanthropy Network at Super Bowl 59’s Radio Row. During the conversation, Meltzer discussed the power of sports in raising awareness for important causes and the role of athletes in philanthropy. He emphasized the importance of strategic giving, personal involvement, and building a community to drive meaningful impact.

David Meltzer
In his early 20s, David Meltzer quickly rose to the top of his game in the business world, becoming a millionaire. David lectured around the globe and saw rapid success in every business project he touched. But something was missing, and in his 30s as a multimillionaire, he went on a rapid downward spiral that ended in bankruptcy. It was only then that David realized, in order to revive and thrive, he needed to codify what had made him successful in the first place. He has since emerged to realize even more rewarding heights of success in business and life.
David Meltzer has created a platform that uses four overarching principles—gratitude, empathy, accountability, and effective communication—and these principles have allowed him to communicate and mentor everyone from college students to c-suite executives. These four principles in everyday practice allow David to live by his mission to “make a lot of money, help a lot of people, and have a lot of fun.”


Napoleon Hill Institute
The Napoleon Hill Institute is the world’s leading authority on personal development. With over 50 years of combined experience, its coaches and trainers continually refine their methods to ensure students achieve the best possible results. The institute focuses on utilizing Napoleon Hill’s time-tested principles to help individuals reach their goals and dreams. Through its unique approach, the Napoleon Hill Institute empowers people from all walks of life to improve their lives and realize their full potential.
Watch the Interview Here

– [00:00] Introduction – Roy Kessel welcomes David Meltzer to the Sports Philanthropy Network at Super Bowl 59’s Radio Row, highlighting his contributions to philanthropy and entrepreneurship.
– [00:31] Purpose of Sports in Philanthropy – Meltzer discusses how sports can elevate awareness for important causes, citing examples like Evander Holyfield’s PSA against domestic violence.
– [01:02] Napoleon Hill Institute – Meltzer shares his recent appointment as chairman of the Napoleon Hill Institute and its mission to inspire personal development and business success.
– **[02:02] Empowering a Billion People** – He talks about his long-term goal of empowering a billion people through education, entrepreneurship, and philanthropy.
– [03:07] Attracting Influential Figures to Philanthropy – Meltzer explains the “bug light approach,” which involves bringing high-profile athletes and team owners to philanthropy events to inspire broader engagement.
– [04:11] Athletes and Philanthropy Challenges – He highlights the common issue of athletes engaging in charity without long-term strategy, often relying on short-term appearances rather than meaningful involvement.
– [05:20] Guiding Young Athletes in Philanthropy – Meltzer emphasizes the importance of teaching athletes how to effectively fundraise and stay committed to their philanthropic missions.
– [06:55] Misconceptions About Athlete-Run Foundations – He discusses the unrealistic expectations some athletes have about their foundations sustaining them financially post-career and the need for proper guidance.
– [08:39] Leading by Example – Meltzer shares success stories, including Doug Flutie and J.J. Watt, who leveraged their platforms effectively to raise millions for charitable causes.
– [11:06] The Importance of Showing Up – He stresses the value of being present, networking, and actively participating in events to build relationships and create opportunities.
