Launching Onward and Upward with ML Bruin

Mission Matters Business Podcast with Adam Torres33mApril 8, 2026

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AI-Generated Summary

In this inaugural episode of 'Onward and Upward' with ML Bruin, host Adam Torres welcomes back author and storyteller ML Bruin for a reflective and inspiring conversation about creativity, resilience, and the writing journey. The episode traces ML’s path from a second-grade dreamer inspired by Peter Puck to a published author of children’s books, all while navigating personal challenges like Lyme disease and the evolving landscape of technology. The discussion dives into the power of storytelling, the importance of note-taking for inspiration, and the often-overlooked reality that publishing a book is just the beginning—promotion and sustained engagement are essential for lasting impact. Adam shares his own journey from reluctant writer to book publisher, emphasizing that passion, systems, and persistence are key to success. The episode also explores generational shifts in childhood, the role of technology in creativity, and the idea that every person has a story worth telling.

Key Takeaways
1

Everyone has a book in them—what matters is having a clear purpose and the commitment to promote it.

2

Writing is not just about the act of creation, but about building a lifestyle of consistent storytelling and outreach.

3

Self-publishing offers control and speed, but success depends on the author’s willingness to promote their work.

4

Inspiration often comes from real-life moments—keep a running notebook of funny, meaningful, or unexpected events.

5

Technology has changed how we learn and create, but the old-school way of spontaneous, unplugged creativity still holds unique value.

…and 3 more takeaways available in PodZeus

Chapters
0:00
7 min

Introducing Onward and Upward: A New Chapter

It's kind of a saying I use from time to time. I always wanted to inspire and help people be motivated in whatever they do.

Highlight
6:40
10 min

From Second Grade to Author: The Roots of a Writer

ML Bruin shares his earliest memory of writing—creating a Peter Puck-inspired book in second grade—and reflects on how childhood experiences in a poor Northeast neighborhood shaped his love for sports, storytelling, and creativity. He discusses how early encouragement from family and teachers fueled his passion.

16:40
10 min

The Power of Spontaneity and Unplugged Creativity

I intentionally put these like roadblocks, so to speak, or like other things in my life, even though I don't necessarily have to, but I do just so I can see the world differently.

Highlight
26:40
13 min

The Writing Process: From Notes to Published Books

If you think about like what it takes to get a book out there, okay, the first month maybe your family knows. Maybe some of your friends know. The next month maybe some of your colleagues know.

Highlight
40:00
14 min

The Myth of the 'One-and-Done' Book: Why Promotion Never Ends

Once you become an author, now you have a lifestyle. It's a different, it's a life. It never ends like your book.

Highlight
High-Impact Quotes
I intentionally put these like roadblocks, so to speak, or like other things in my life, even though I don't necessarily have to, but I do just so I can see the world differently.
Adam Torres7:17
Viral: 90.0
Once you become an author, now you have a lifestyle. It's a different, it's a life. It never ends like your book.
Adam Torres28:39
Viral: 88.0
It's kind of a saying I use from time to time. I always wanted to inspire and help people be motivated in whatever they do.
ML Bruin0:58
Viral: 85.0
Speakers

Host

Adam Torres

Guest

ML Bruin
Topics Discussed
Storytelling and Personal Growth95%The Role of Promotion in Book Success94%Author as a Lifestyle92%The Writing Journey and Creative Process90%Overcoming Adversity and Resilience88%Self-Publishing vs Traditional Publishing85%Inspiration from Everyday Life80%Generational Shifts in Childhood and Technology78%
People & Brands

Adam Torres

person

15xPositive

ML Bruin

person

12xPositive

Onward and Upward

other

8xPositive

Mission Matters Business Podcast

media

5xPositive

Mission Matters

organization

4xPositive

Peter Puck

media

3xNeutral

40 Year Old Virgin

media

2xPositive

Noah and the Shark

book

2xPositive

Who Taught Who?

book

2xPositive

Lyme Disease

other

2xNeutral

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