Get Unstuck & On Target

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Ted Konechne, President of the East Region for AIS. AIS offers inspection and engineering services for home builders, helping them speed up construction without compromising quality. Ted shares how he focuses on connecting personally with employees during mergers, being curious about regional differences, and celebrating small wins daily to drive accountability and momentum. Ted Konechne’s Bio Ted Konechne is the President of the East Region for ARCXIS, an industry leader in engineering and new construction inspection services. He has nearly 30 years of experience in the residential building industry, previously working with Pulte Homes, Beazer Homes, and running his own HVAC design/installation business. Ted is passionate about helping homebuilders deliver quality, energy-efficient homes faster and more cost-effectively. He has been actively involved with the National Association of Home Builders at local and state levels. In 2011, Ted won a National Home Quality Comfort Award for a geothermal home design in Texas. In This Episode… Be curious – ask questions and listen to understand others’ perspectives Celebrate small wins daily to build momentum and confidence Lead by example – model the accountability and initiative you want to see Connect personally with employees to understand their needs and concerns Provide clarity around objectives so people feel confident moving forward Links & Resources Mentioned… Websites: https://www.arcxis.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teddykonechne/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Monte McDowell, the owner of ARCpoint Labs of Atlanta, a lab testing and services company. Monte helps his clients with workplace drug testing, DNA-based tests, and clinical lab services. He leverages nearly 30 years of HR experience to provide consultation around health, drug screening, and safety. Mike and Monte discuss the transition from corporate HR executive to business owner, including the ups and downs. Monte shares lessons on adapting expertise to a new field, seeking quality mentorship, networking consistently, and having grit through sales challenges and rejections. Monte McDowell’s Bio Human Resources consultant and entrepreneur. Franchise owner of ARCpoint Labs, a full service clinical lab testing service. We help employers maintain safe and drug-free workplaces, and individuals take charge of their health and wellness with direct access to toxicology and advanced clinical lab panels. In addition, we offer paramedical life insurance exams. Our cost-effective lab collection and testing solutions are performed by our team of certified, licensed professionals. Gwinnett County, Georgia. In This Episode… Monte made the transition from corporate HR to becoming a business owner through buying a franchise. It allowed him to leverage his expertise while still being new and challenging. He sought advice from mentors but they focused on his HR skills versus business ownership since that wasn’t their experience. It’s important to have mentors with a variety of backgrounds. As a business owner, he wears many hats beyond just HR. He’s also sales, marketing, operations – it’s challenging but rewarding to build something of your own. He encourages networking consistently to build relationships. Those connections are invaluable for advice, referrals, insights, etc. Perseverance and grit are critical – being told “no” is inevitable but you control the follow up and persistence. The ball is always in your court. Links & Resources Mentioned… Websites: https://www.arcpointlabs.com/atlanta-northeast/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/montemcdowellhr/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Steve Fisher, a founding partner of Strategy Partners Group. Steve helps his clients get “unstuck” from short-term tactical thinking and make the transition to long-term strategic planning and growth. He discusses the importance of having a written, structured growth plan with metrics, and how to delegate parts of the plan effectively while still holding people accountable. Steve also talks about the role trust plays in executing strategy, especially in mergers and acquisitions when cultures need to merge. Steve Fisher’s Bio HONESTY + DISCRETION = A TRUSTED STRATEGIC PARTNERWhen it comes to financial matters and money management, Steve’s Core Values include Honesty and Discretion. As a trusted strategic partner, Steve treats a client’s confidence as if it was an attorney-client privilege. Steve knows he must remain vigilant and cautious about protecting what his clients tell him. His discretion builds trust so clients feel comfortable talking with him. NOT YOUR TYPICAL NUMBERS GUYSteve possesses an engineer persona through education and early career experience. But his transition into finance was natural since he’s very detailed and thorough. With his linear thinking and inclination for being process-driven, most people are surprised to find Steve both relatable and personable. Steve has years of experience taking complex conversations and making sure everyone involved in the decision-making understands what’s being presented. People often ask him, “What did the CPA just say?” And Steve will translate for them. GETTING TO THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEMSteve has long been inspired by this famous quote from Yogi Berra, “If you don’t know where you are going, you’ll end up someplace else.” He learned from a former boss who served in Vietnam as a Marine to slow down both his mind and body and “quiet the noise” when matters get stressful or challenging. Then he focuses on one thing: What’s the big problem to be addressed? FINANCE FOR EVERYONEIn addition to using his knowledge and skill with clients, he has been privileged to collaborate with training professionals to co-develop and present curriculum entitled “Finance for Everyone.” Steve served as a subject matter expert for Panasonic’s Executive Training program. He also served as a speaker for Human Resource and Management Professionals from a variety of companies at Emory University’s Continuing Education Division. In This Episode… The difference between tactical and strategic thinking How to transition from “firefighting” to long-term strategy Why it’s critical to have a written, structured growth plan How to delegate effectively and hold people accountable The importance of trust and merging cultures in M&A Links & Resources Mentioned… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-fisher-cfo/ Website: https://strategypg.com

In this enlightening episode, Mike sits down with marketing guru Michael Wolfe, the brains behind Bottom Line Analytics. With a knack for turning data into captivating stories, Michael reveals how he helps clients revolutionize their marketing strategies for a better ROI. Get ready to unravel the mystery behind effective marketing and discover how a single sandwich sparked a sales explosion for a major brand. Dive into the numbers, anecdotes, and insights that will change the way you approach your marketing game. Michael Wolfe’s Bio Want 2-8% more revenue without extra marketing costs? Let’s chat. I’ll make you a “data-driven marketer” and turn insights into growth. With 30+ years’ experience, I’ve worked with giants like Coca-Cola, AT&T, and more. My passion? Boosting your revenue and ROI. I’m all about optimizing your marketing. Let’s innovate together and achieve results. Here’s my expertise: Crafting compelling ads for real ROI. Nailing down marketing returns and refining results. Visualizing a future aligned with your dreams. Unlocking your competitive edge in marketing. Guiding you through analytics. Building an exceptional Analytics Department. In This Episode… Learn how to measure the effectiveness of your marketing efforts like a pro. Discover the power of turning data into compelling stories for better decision-making. Find out how to identify which marketing strategies work and which ones need a makeover. Understand the significance of differentiation and targeting in successful campaigns. Gain insights into turning marketing dollars into real, measurable growth. Links & Resources Mentioned… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wolfe-b53716 Website: https://bottomlineanalytics.com/

In this captivating episode, Mike dives into an insightful conversation with Eric McCarthey, a seasoned boardroom virtuoso. Eric brings his wealth of experience as a strategic leader, offering invaluable insights into the dynamics of successful boards and transformational leadership. With a remarkable career spanning leadership roles and board positions, Eric sheds light on the inner workings of board committees, the essence of the duty of care and loyalty, and the power of cultivating a kind and thriving company culture. He shares a remarkable story of partnering with Ralph Lauren, unraveling the challenges, and the pivotal role of kindness in turning a struggling company into a success story. Tune in to this episode to discover boardroom secrets, unravel the magic of successful transformations, and explore the art of leadership through the lens of a seasoned expert. Eric McCarthey’s Bio Eric McCarthey brings a wealth of experience to the boardroom, combining a diverse background with a passion for strategic transformation. With a remarkable career spanning various leadership roles, including private equity CEO, venture capital managing partner, and former corporate officer at Coca-Cola, Eric is a seasoned expert in steering businesses toward success. Eric’s expertise extends across numerous domains, from strategic business transformation and brand positioning to mergers and acquisitions for competitive advantage. He excels in cultivating sales and service systems, optimizing supply chains, and driving revenue growth. Furthermore, his proficiency in business recapitalization, IoT, digital transformation, and cyber security is highly regarded. Beyond his corporate accomplishments, Eric’s contributions as Past Chair with Vistage International, the world’s leading CEO membership organization, highlight his commitment to fostering CEO leadership development. His insights are sought-after, making him a published author on sales leadership, high-impact boards, and a compelling public speaker on leadership and relationship development. Eric’s dedication lies in shaping exceptional value creation and seizing new growth frontiers, making him a trusted authority in the realms of business strategy and leadership. In This Episode… Ever wondered about the secret sauce behind successful boardrooms? We spill the beans on how high-performing boards really operate. Get the lowdown on the crucial committees within a board and their roles. Think it’s all about compensation? Think again! Discover the power of kindness in building a resilient company culture and how it can drive transformation from the inside out. Hear a riveting real-life example of turning a stuck company around, complete with insights from the legendary Ralph Lauren’s approach to business and culture. Want to be a board member? Learn about the duty of care and duty of loyalty, and why a touch of caution can save you from some hefty insurance claims. Links & Resources Mentioned… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericmccarthey1/

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill dives into the world of podcasting with Jason Croft, a seasoned podcasting expert and founder of Media Leads. Jason shares valuable insights on authenticity, repurposing content, and how to overcome challenges in the podcasting journey. Don’t miss out on this engaging conversation! Jason Croft’s Bio In his 30+ years in media, Jason Croft has worked around the globe creating professional content in wide-ranging roles and projects from producing award-winning movies to shooting for exotic animal shows in Texas and Alaska, to producing content for the largest boxing event in history. He has interviewed hundreds of entrepreneurs and industry experts from behind and in front of the camera. He’s been the successful host and producer of numerous shows including Startup Dallas, The Jason Croft Show, Strategy + Action, and Concentric. As a frequent speaker and guest on podcasts, he teaches people how to create leadership-level content. Through his company, Media Leads, business coaches and consultants hire him to build their own Power Content Machine In This Episode… Title for this episode (max 70 characters): “Podcasting Tips: Authenticity, Repurposing Content, and Getting Unstuck” Key takeaways for listeners: The importance of being authentic in podcasting and embracing your true self. Creative ways to repurpose podcast content for broader reach and engagement. The power of coaching and seeking external perspectives to overcome feeling stuck. Exploring collaboration opportunities to monetize your podcast. Understanding realistic expectations and goals when starting a podcast. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://thejasoncroft.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thejasoncroft

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill engages in a captivating conversation with Terri Lonowski, a renowned expert in soulful listening and communication. Terri shares her insights on the power of active listening combined with empathy, highlighting the transformative potential it holds for personal and professional growth. Discover the five elements of soulful listening, the importance of self-care and self-discovery, and the impact of inspired action. Join us as Terri unveils the secrets to cultivating meaningful connections and unlocking your full potential through the art of soulful listening. Terri Lonowski’s Bio Authentic, deeper communication through evolutionary listening! When we are heard and supported on a deep level, our potential is unleashed. Problem is, we don’t feel heard, and the consequences are devastating. As a solution, I created a five-element holistic approach called Soulful Listening®️, to soften loneliness, inspire greater human potential, and heal the communication divide experienced in relationships, at work and in our personal lives. I know first-hand the power of deep listening. Through my Grandma Helga’s all-in listening my potential was set free, and I eventually ended up on a TEDx Stage and at The White House – twice. A sought-after national and international speaker, I’m eager to share this powerful gift! Soulful Listening®️ keynotes, workshops, TV, or podcasts appearance inspire deeper, authentic, fulfilling communications through evolutionary listening. The world needs it, and together we can soften loneliness and inspire greater human potential! In This Episode… Discover the transformative potential of soulful listening and its impact on personal growth and relationships. Learn how self-care and active listening combined create a richer and more meaningful connection with others. Understand the importance of self-discovery and inspired action in achieving personal and professional goals. Explore the power of storytelling and how it can inspire and motivate change. Gain practical tips and actionable steps to incorporate soulful listening into daily life for improved communication and understanding. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://soulfullistening.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terri-lonowski-53536614/

In today’s episode, Mike chats with Kevin Juza, an expert in sales and leadership. Kevin shares valuable insights on how curiosity and serving others are the keys to sales success. He emphasizes the importance of setting ambitious goals, being tenacious, and empowering your team. Tune in to gain practical strategies and a fresh perspective on sales leadership. Kevin Juza’s Bio My name is Kevin Juza. I started my career in operations and management in the financial services industry. In 2008, my professional career hit a tornado and I had to start over. I worked in a call center like a sweatshop dialing 250-300 phone numbers daily. I learned much about connecting, being authentic, and building a pipeline to reach every quota. Over the next 5 years, I had two other jobs managing and leading SaaS, Manufacturing, and technology companies inside sales departments. When COVID happened I started consulting and helping startups implement inside sales teams to provide meetings for their sales teams and proper follow-up on their marketing efforts. I found my niche, in how to help young companies build and create sustainable inside sales teams. We help startup executive leaders reach goals by putting things in motion to have at least 3x plans to succeed. Working with my clients I talk about the daily rigor, tenacious process, and building a connection pipeline to fuel a 4x pipeline. In This Episode… Discover the importance of genuine curiosity in sales and how it can lead to better customer relationships. Learn how serving customers and solving their problems is the key to sales success. Understand the significance of tenacity, self-belief, and setting ambitious goals in achieving personal and team objectives. Gain insights into effective leadership in sales, including active listening and empowering your team. Explore the advantages of working with startups and their resilient, adaptable mindset. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://thetenaciousleader.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjuza/

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill sits down with Tim Kenny, founder of Kenny and Kenny, a family CPA firm. Tim shares valuable insights on building businesses that last and the importance of prioritizing long-term success. Tim’s expertise lies in working with owners and management to create thriving businesses that work for them. He emphasizes the significance of embracing a long-term mindset and putting the team first. Through his experience, he has seen the transformative power of becoming a trusted advisor rather than just a transactional service provider. Join this conversation to learn how to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship, create custom business models aligned with your goals, and build a team that drives success. Don’t miss out on Tim’s wisdom and practical tips! Tim Kenny’s Bio CPA, CMA, CVA, and Certified Profit First Professional at Kenny & Kenny, PC At this stage of my career, I am interested in helping clients achieve next level results and their personal and business dreams. The professionals that I work with do an incredible job. We love working together and getting customer results. In This Episode… Discover the importance of prioritizing long-term goals over short-term gains in business. Learn how working with a trusted advisor can help navigate the challenges of running a business. Understand the value of building a strong team and putting them first in order to achieve success. Explore the shift from transactional relationships to becoming a trusted advisor for clients. Gain insights into creating custom business models that align with personal goals and aspirations. Realize the significance of falling in love with your business and creating a positive work environment. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.kennycpa.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tim-kenny-887a87/

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill dives into the concept of high achieving servant leadership with Kurt Uhlir, an experienced business leader who has built and run successful companies. They explore the key elements of this leadership approach and its impact on business growth.Join Mike and Kurt as they discuss the value of deepening relationships with customers, understanding their needs beyond your products or services, and the art of “net-weaving” to create mutually beneficial connections. Kurt Uhlir’s Bio Known for being at the front lines for creating several of the marketing channels we all use today, including social media management, influencer marketing, and location-based marketing, with the last five years spent in real estate. In addition to his experience building and/or operating dozens of companies, he has advised hundreds more. The unique experience being inside hundreds of high-growth companies with the opportunity to analyze, scale, make changes of leadership, and advisement has labeled him “the king of scaling businesses”. As a popular keynote speaker, podcast guest, and author on high-achieving servant leadership, Kurt wants to help people and create environments where people can flourish as themselves. Whether it’s humor, information on modern digital marketing, innovation, or inspiration, Kurt is sure to deliver immense value. Reach out to him to hear stories that will move you and give your audience tactical next steps to unlocking success. In This Episode… Discover the concept of high achieving servant leadership and its impact on business growth. Learn the importance of serving and investing in the growth of your employees. Understand the value of mentorship in personal and professional development. Gain insights on how to deepen relationships with customers and understand their needs. Overcome challenges by embracing healthy confrontations and open communication. Explore the power of “net-weaving” and building relationships for mutual benefit. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://kurtuhlir.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kurtuhlir/

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill sits down with Matt Guse, the owner of MRS Machining, to delve into his journey as a leader and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way. Matt has transformed the company into a thriving manufacturing business. Through open communication and improved shift handoffs, he has successfully enhanced productivity and quality within the organization. Matt also emphasizes the importance of controlled growth, sharing insights on how to avoid common pitfalls when scaling a business. Matt Guse’s Bio Matt Guse is President of M.R.S. Machining Co., Inc. Matt Guse and his wife Vicki own M.R.S. Machining Co., Inc. that was started by his father in 1986 in his garage. Matt has been in the manufacturing industry for over 30 years. In 2007 M.R.S. Machining Co., Inc. was named one of American Machinist Magazines Top Ten Machine shops in the nation and most recently was named a 2017 TOP SHOP by Modern Machine Shop Magazine Matt has also been very active in his community by serving on his local school board, he is a licensed official for both football and basketball, and serves on the Chippewa Valley Technical College Machine Tool Advisory board. Matt Guse also was part of the startup of Cardinal Manufacturing at the Eleva-Strum school by donating equipment. He continues to donate his time and expertise to this great educational opportunity on a regular basis. He is keenly interested in developing new talent and ideas for the manufacturing industry and created two patents for cutting tools that he himself developed. Matt was also one of the faces in the IMTS 2016 and 2018 ad campaign. Recently been quoted in the New York Times and has appeared on the Fox Business News Channel with Liz Claman. In his spare time he enjoys being a Basketball and Football official. Has passion for cycling and has successfully cycled up Pikes Peaks to elevation of 14,115 feet and this past year he put over 9,000 miles on his bike and is always up for going for ride. In This Episode… The importance of open communication and effective shift handoffs in maintaining productivity and quality in a manufacturing environment. The value of participating in peer advisory groups for gaining outside perspectives, accountability, and navigating challenges in business. The significance of controlled growth in order to maintain stability and avoid potential pitfalls. The impact of fractional CFOs in providing strategic financial guidance to small and medium-sized businesses. The power of giving back to the community, mentoring young adults, and creating opportunities for growth and success. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.mrsmachiningco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-guse-3aa35914/

In today’s episode, Mike dives into the world of risk management with Steven Lustig, an expert consultant in the field. Steven shares invaluable insights and strategies to help businesses effectively navigate and mitigate risks in an ever-changing landscape. Tune in to gain practical tips on exploiting risks, assessing their impact, and diversifying your supply chain for greater resilience. Steven Lustig is a sought-after consultant who specializes in risk management, supply chain optimization, and operational excellence. With years of experience in various industries, he brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Steven Lustig’s Bio As an Executive Team member, Board Director, and engineer, I bring a special perspective to solving complex problems. My career has taught me how to systematically approach challenges: first identifying the problem; next asking insightful questions; then creating a plan for its solution; followed by taking the actions that lead our team to the solution. My diverse skills, experience, and adaptability have made me the go-to-person for CEOs for growth, acquisition, and integration. For example, when the pandemic struck the world a few years ago, our company’s CEO wanted me to tackle the high-risk global supply chain disruptions that potentially could have caused a disaster for our company. Our team developed new tools and processes to secure scarce materials, enhanced supplier relationships, and took other actions around the world to avoid catastrophe. In another example of being asked by a CEO to step forward, I was invited to give a presentation to my fellow board members about board governance.One of my greatest rewards comes from the people I mentor. Those mentees include professionals and students in the Georgia Tech Mentor Jackets program. I have also mentored many coworkers at various companies throughout my career. I passionately pursue the development of strong teams and the leadership of continuous process improvement. I have received recognition as a supply chain and manufacturing thought leader, sharing my insights in industry publications and serving as a panelist at industry events. I have achieved certifications in Private Company Governance, Project Management Professional (PMP), Six Sigma Green Belt, and Operational Excellence. In This Episode… Discover how to exploit risks rather than just mitigating them. Learn practical approaches to risk assessment using simple tools like spreadsheets. Understand the importance of cross-functional collaboration in evaluating risks. Gain insights into supply chain challenges and strategies for diversification. Recognize the need for proactive risk management in an unpredictable world. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.lustigglobalconsulting.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenklustig

In today’s episode, Mike O’Neill sits down with Sarah Leslie, an incredible upgrade coach who has helped countless individuals transform their lives. Sarah shares her personal journey of breaking free from the conventional path and finding true happiness and fulfillment. They delve into the power of clarity, vulnerability, and redefining your standards of living. Sarah emphasizes the importance of tapping into your unique desires and aspirations, rather than following the crowd. She guides listeners through a powerful exercise to envision their future selves and unleash their potential. Don’t miss this insightful conversation filled with practical tips and inspiration. Sarah Leslie’s Bio Sarah has been helping people upgrade their lives for over 20 years. She was a licensed clinical social worker and now refers to herself as an Upgrade Coach. She teaches people the clear simple process of how to upgrade their lives and be in control of their futures. She knows personally the challenge of accomplishing big goals in life and believes the best way to make that happen is by working alongside a professional who knows how to do it. She stands out from others in her field as she is fiercely committed to her own personal growth and upgrading her own standards of living. She loves nature, being near the water and the mountains, cooking delicious meals, and having thought-provoking conversations. In This Episode… Discover the power of upgrading your life and being in control of your future. Learn how to break free from the conventional path and create a life aligned with your true desires. Understand the importance of clarity in defining what you truly want and setting intentions. Explore the role of vulnerability and authenticity in leadership and personal growth. Gain insights into nurturing belief and retraining your mind to achieve what you desire. Embrace the power of imagination and visualization to manifest your goals. Find inspiration in Sarah’s personal journey of transformation and how she helps others get unstuck and on track. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://sarahlesliecoaching.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-kostrub-leslie-msw-08aa1226/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jeremy Pope. Jeremy assists clients in overhauling their sales strategies, focusing on the balance between networking and prospecting. He’s the co-founder of The Closing Engine, where he works with clients to uncover and transform the limiting beliefs that keep them stuck in ineffective sales patterns. His unique approach has helped many businesses bloom through effective networking, alleviating the pressure of prospecting. Jeremy is also a fervent advocate of individualization in sales processes. Jeremy Pope’s Bio Jeremy Pope is a former clinical and stage hypnotist who now helps entrepreneurs build scalable high-ticket sales departments. He’s been a top salesperson, sales manager, and sales trainer for international businesses, including the direct-marketing giant Guthy Renker. Now, he and his team at The Engine Room help build high-ticket sales departments and help founders repair broken sales methods. You can join their free Facebook community at salescalloverhaul.com/join In This Episode… Uncover the difference between networking and prospecting, and how to strike the perfect balance. Learn how individualization can boost your sales effectiveness. Discover how to leverage networking to promote a give, not take, mentality in your sales process. Gain insights into overcoming business blocks and personal growth challenges. Learn about Jeremy Pope’s unique approach to sales with a focus on the psychology behind it. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://salescalloverhaul.com/join LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-pope/ Book an appointment with Jeremy at https://appointment.salescalloverhaul.com/15mins-jeremy-zoom

In today’s episode, Mike dives into a fascinating conversation with Kristina Proctor, an entrepreneur and coach specializing in supporting individuals with ADHD and neurodivergent traits. You won’t want to miss Kristina’s personal journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship and the valuable insights she shares along the way. Listen to the episode to uncover the secrets of a successful transition, learn how to stay motivated and avoid burnout, and discover strategies for overcoming the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs with ADHD. Kristina’s expertise will empower you to thrive as a business owner and create a more inclusive and understanding workplace environment for neurodivergent individuals. Tune in now and gain the inspiration and practical advice you need to take your entrepreneurial journey to new heights! Kristina Proctor’s Bio Kristina Proctor is a force to be reckoned with, an ADHD Coach and Marketing & Communications expert who has dominated almost 15 years in corporate America with a passion for helping adults with ADHD work with, not against, their unique brain chemistry. Kristina’s lived experience of working through ADHD as an adult in a corporate-an environment not designed for brains like hers–sets her apart, giving her unparalleled expertise and insight to create powerful tools and coping strategies for ADHDers to thrive. When Kristina isn’t changing lives and crushing it in her own business as a marketing and communication strategist, you can find her volunteering, serving on community boards, spending time with her son, or tackling DIY house projects. Her ADHD brain makes her believe that anything is possible with enough information and training. She brings that same bold approach to helping her clients achieve their personal, professional, or organizational goals. Ready to take your life to the next level? Connect with Kristina on TikTok, LinkedIn, or book a 1:1 session with her today at https://calendly.com/kristinaeproctor/45min. With Kristina by your side, you’ll be unstoppable. In This Episode… Discover the secrets to successfully transitioning from a corporate environment to owning your own business, as shared by Kristina Proctor who made the leap herself after 15 years in the corporate world. Gain valuable insights into self-motivation and finding a healthy hustle without burning out, especially for entrepreneurs with ADHD or similar challenges. Explore the pros and cons of the corporate world versus the flexibility and autonomy of entrepreneurship, and learn how to stay focused and productive in a less structured environment. Uncover the challenges faced by entrepreneurs with ADHD, such as rejection sensitivity, and discover effective strategies to overcome these obstacles and thrive in sales and business interactions. Understand the importance of energy management and goal setting for neurodivergent individuals, and learn how to make informal accommodations in the workplace to support their unique needs. Discover the power of recognizing and addressing stigma around neurodivergence, fostering a more inclusive and understanding environment for employees with ADHD, dyslexia, or autism. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.neurodivergentventures.com TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@adhdcoachktina LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinaesmith Book a 1:1 session with Kristina today at https://calendly.com/kristinaeproctor/45min.

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Rick Reynolds & Alex Brown. Rick is the co-founder and CEO, and Alex is the Vice President of Sales. A little bit more about Rick. Over his career, he’s built two successful companies to evaluate and deliver actionable insights into business to business sales performance. That is, why are sales one and lost and account health. Why are accounts strong, vulnerable, or damaged? Alex has spent his entire career in sales, sales management, and sales leadership roles in a number of industries. So you can see we’re gonna have a rich conversation. Rick Reynold’s Bio Over his career Rick has launched and built two successful companies to evaluate and deliver actionable insights into B2B sales performance (Why are sales won and lost?) and account health (Why are accounts strong, vulnerable, or damaged?). AskForensics, his current company, delivers in-depth qualitative assessments and quantitative analytics, using proprietary solutions and methodologies, to leading Fortune 1000 corporations and SMBs. Rick has also been on the boards and advisory councils of several national, state, and local non-profit organizations focused on healthcare, medical research, and disabilities. Alex Brown’s Bio My first job was in 7th grade as a prep cook and dishwasher and I haven’t stopped working since that time. I have spent my entire career years in sales, sales management, and sales leadership roles in several industries. The most recent 5 years have been in healthcare acquisitions where I helped lead the team that found, evaluated and brought on doctor-owned medical practices. In This Episode… Meet the Experts: Let’s dive in as Mike introduces our go-to guys, Rick and Alex from AskForensics, and they share their journey into the biz. What’s AskForensics?: Hang out with Rick as he breaks down the who, what, and why of AskForensics, talking about how they turn data into decisions that drive sales. Sales: Then vs. Now: Alex chats about the shift in the sales game due to the digital age, and why it’s important to keep a finger on the pulse of client relationships. Forensics Meet Sales: Get into the nitty-gritty of how Rick and his team turn detective, using a unique approach to uncover insights that traditional market research might miss. Who Needs AskForensics?: From Fortune 1000 powerhouses to emerging businesses, Rick shares who could benefit from a dose of AskForensics magic. Why AskForensics?: Join the conversation on how AskForensics can help you hang onto important accounts and amp up your sales performance. AskForensics: Resistance to Acceptance: Let Rick walk you through the initial push-back from sales teams and how they overcome these reservations. Bespoke Services: Rick’s got you covered, explaining how AskForensics can help businesses big or small with a range of services. Picking Your Battles: Learn about the methodology behind selecting which customers to focus on in a B2B environment, with some tips on how to balance data and intuition. Art vs Science: Explore the perfect blend of intuition and data when handling client feedback, finding that sweet spot between science and art. Keeping Your Eye on the Prize: Unpack the comparative analysis of account health and sales forensics, and how it can help manage potential conflict. All About Retention: Get the inside scoop on why renewals and customer retention are the name of the game, especially for SaaS companies. Feedback, Action, and Perception: Dive into the importance of acting on client feedback and how it shapes their perception of your business. Third-party Interviews: See how bringing in an independent third party to conduct interviews can show clients you’re invested in understanding their needs. Leadership Changes & Perception: Understand the value of third-party analysis when leadership changes occur within a client organization. Fixing the Gaps: Listen to Rick’s story of how they helped a vulnerable client improve their business by identifying weaknesses and strategizing for success. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://askforensics.com Rick’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickareynolds Alex’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexanderbrownsales

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Judy Kane. Judy helps her clients get rid of the head trash that’s limiting them and causing them stress.She’s the founder of Aligned Consciousness, and in that role, she helps people identify and transform the subconscious beliefs to keep them repeating ineffective and stressful patterns. Her clients experience changes that allow them to achieve their goals with ease and comfort. She’s also the author of Your4Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life. Judy Kane’s Bio Judy Kane, the founder of Aligned Consciousness, helps people identify and transform the subconscious beliefs that keep them repeating ineffective, stressful patterns. Her clients experience changes that allow them to achieve their goals —with ease and comfort. She is the author of Your4Truths: How Beliefs Impact Your Life. Judy also hosts workshops and presents in group sessions, conferences, and podcasts. Originally from Richmond, Virginia, she lives near Tampa Bay, Florida, usually with a rescued cat or dog (or two) as part of her household. Topics in This Episode Judy defines ‘head trash’ as subconscious beliefs that block people from achieving their goals and cause unnecessary stress. She works with her clients to recognize these beliefs and rewrite them, aligning their subconscious with their conscious goals. When a subconscious belief is changed, it’s permanently altered. But sometimes there may be layers to the issue, or the client may be attached to their past story. In these cases, traditional coaching can be beneficial for maintaining behavior changes. Common Struggles of Entrepreneurs: According to Judy, entrepreneurs frequently struggle with issues related to self-worth and safety. Their fears can vary, including fear of success, fear of failure, and fear of being seen or heard. Many entrepreneurs also have complex attitudes towards money. Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurship: Those moving from a corporate role to becoming an entrepreneur often subconsciously believe they won’t earn as much as they did in their corporate job. They may also feel uncomfortable with the sales aspect of running a business, struggle to determine their pricing, and might face fear of exposure or visibility. Addressing Subconscious Beliefs: Judy emphasizes the importance of addressing subconscious beliefs that may be hampering one’s success. Her book, “Your4Truths”, delves into four truths of safety, worthiness, feeling valued, and feeling lovable, offering insights into subconscious beliefs that could hinder these realities. Personal Example of Overcoming Fears: Judy shares her personal experience of overcoming her fear of being in the spotlight using tools to change her beliefs, emphasizing that similar transformations are possible for everyone. Satisfaction in Helping Clients: Judy finds fulfillment in her work, knowing that each session makes some positive change in her clients’ lives. She emphasizes that people do not have to stay stuck with troubling issues and can change their situations. Recap of Main Message: The main message is that if things keep repeating in an unsatisfactory manner, there might be subconscious beliefs at work against you. However, these can be changed and people are not necessarily stuck with them. Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.alignedconsciousness.com/resources/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judykanepsychk/ Judy’s Book: www.alignedconsciousness.com/your4truths/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Lisa Dahl. Lisa is a certified Health and Wellness Coach specializing in Intuitive Eating, Mindful Eating, and Body Image. Her hallmark emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion helps women find a successful pathway to whole-body wellness. Lisa Dahl’s Bio Lisa Dahl is a certified Health and Wellness Coach specializing in Intuitive Eating, Mindful Eating, and Body Image. Her hallmark emphasis on mindfulness and self-compassion helps women find a successful pathway to whole-body wellness. With compassion and expertise, she supports her clients as they discover “Body Peace & Food Freedom” on their journey to break free from dieting and diet culture. Her clients achieve a higher level of well-being as Lisa guides them through visioning, goal setting, and accountability. Topics in This Episode The concept of intuitive eating and its benefits The role of stress, emotions, and overall well-being in eating habits The difference between dieting and intuitive eating The impact of mental health on eating habits and body image The holistic approach to health and wellness The failure rate of diets and breaking the failure cycle Set point theory and the goal of intuitive eating The importance of body image acceptance and dealing with societal pressures The role of self-compassion in the journey towards wellness The myth that thinner bodies are better bodies The process of working with Lisa and creating a health and wellness vision plan The ongoing nature of health and wellness as a moving target The importance of making the best choices for one’s individual needs Links & Resources Mentioned… Website: https://www.lisadahlwellness.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Lisadahlwellness Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lisadahlwellness YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@lisadahlwellness Learn about the 10 Principles of Intuitive Eating: https://www.lisadahlwellness.com/10-principles-of-intuitive-eating-sign-up-lisa-dahl-wellness

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Amit Parmar. Amit is the co-founder and CEO of Cliquify. Cliquify is an employer branding platform for recruiters and hiring managers to showcase their company and to create media buzz across social media. Amit Parmar’s Bio Co-Founder & CEO, Cliquify Amit brings over 16 years of domain expertise in HR with Fortune 100 companies. He started his career with IBM in 2004 where he implemented global HR systems and talent analytics offerings. He then joined Deloitte. where he worked on large HR transformation engagements for multi-national clients. In 2006 he joined Unisys and served in HR & Talent Management roles over time. As a Global Vice President of Talent he designed and led worldwide teams in the areas of talent attraction, talent management, learning, growth and engagement. Amit has HR thought leadership publications with the Forbes HR Leadership Council and is an active member of the Society of Human Resource Management. Graduate of INSEAD’s hyper-accelerator program for tech startups and holds a Master’s Degree in HR from Rutgers University. He enjoys giving back to the community by helping high school and college students with career advice and coaching high potential leaders. Topics in This Episode Cliquify’s platform allows employees to share authentic content about their experiences, thereby creating a genuine employer brand. Companies can use the platform to get a better understanding of their employees’ needs and preferences, such as benefit packages and workplace celebrations. Celebrations are a top category of content shared on the platform, reflecting the importance of recognizing and appreciating employees’ contributions. The platform can also be used to inform talent strategy, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives, and to gauge the performance of specific job postings. A key takeaway for listeners is to think beyond job postings and focus on what makes their company unique in order to attract and retain talent. Sharing content about company culture, beyond just job postings, can drive higher quality traffic to job listings and help attract the right talent. The pandemic has shifted the way people work, with more employees working remotely, making it even more important to engage and celebrate team members in a distributed workforce. A major mindset shift is required to move away from a singular focus on sharing job postings and instead share other aspects of the company culture and employee experience. Paychecks are important, but other factors such as a great boss, team environment, and recognition play a significant role in retaining and attracting talent. Links & Resources Mentioned… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/parmar79/ Website: https://www.cliquify.me/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with John Mendez. John is an entrepreneur, he’s a realtor, investor, and podcast host.His Walk to Wealth podcast has published over 70 plus episodes and it’s already been downloaded thousands of times. His goal is to enlighten and empower young adults to build a wealthy, abundant life. His show is for the youth who don’t wanna take that traditional route of finishing college, working a nine to five job until their sixties, and praying that they have enough save for retirement. John Mendez’s Bio Born and raised in Stamford, John Mendez has seen the City emerge, first-hand, as one of the fastest growing and most dynamic in Connecticut. This expansion, coupled with his passion for helping people, ignited John’s interest in real estate where he specializes in buyer, seller, and tenant representation for residential and investment properties. John grew up on the football field and basketball court where discipline and integrity wereinstilled earlier on and have carried over to everyday life. He brings proven client experience, being recognized as a Top 10 salesperson in the District as a luxury jewelry representative. John further refined his communication and interpersonal skills during his time in the restaurant industry. Johntakes much pride in his Dominican and Guatemalan heritage having been heavily influenced by the Latino and Black community and contributing to his fluency in Spanish. John has taught seminars for realtors across the U.S & Canada that had over 400 sign-ups each. He’s been interviewed on how to market yourself in Spanish for “Command en Español”and taught a class on TikTok for his office. John has generated over 300,000 views YTD on reels alone. John has a passion for enlightening the unenlightened and posts multiple short-form videos daily. Topics in This Episode The value of networking in the entrepreneurial journey Strategies for overcoming shiny object syndrome and staying focused Tips for setting realistic and achievable goals How to start a podcast and navigate initial challenges Building authority and growing a podcast audience Transforming a podcast into a community and movement The importance of adaptability and recalibration in personal and professional growth Learning the value of taking action and iterating as you progress Using connections to access more successful people and opportunities The benefits of being genuine and helping others succeed Connecting with John Mendez and learning more about the Walk2Wealth podcast Links & Resources Mentioned… LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmendezofficial Media Kit: https://linktr.ee/walk2wealth Free Gift: https://www.bit.ly/walk2wealthgift

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Sara Phillips. Sara is a small business coach and founder of Superior Performance Coaching.She’s a professionally trained educator, so she’s able to take on her coaching challenges and breaking them down into small bites and deliver training that empowers her clients to sell and operate their businesses confidently and comfortably so that you can create a consistent income. Sara Phillip’s Bio I support business leaders in the small business arena to understand and transform their communication in such a way that their employees and customers are more loyal, employees take ownership and start problem-solving rather than take it to someone else, and personal and family bonds are strengthened. These things combine to allow business leaders to spend time doing the things they love in and out of their business and create the life they’ve always dreamed about living. ▶️

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Eric Rogell. Eric is the founder of Mentors on a Mission. He’s passionate about helping fathers raise strong sons. Eric works with men who want to be extraordinary leaders and also want to influence, inspire, and leave a lasting impact on the next generation. Eric Rogell’s Bio It’s deceptively simple, but when you answer these 4 questions as honestly—and I mean as ruthlessly honestly—as you can, (especially Question 4) the roadmap to growth and success in every area of your life will unfold. The actions to take become clear. QUESTION 1: WHAT KIND OF PERSON DO I WANT TO BE? QUESTION 2: WHAT KIND OF PEOPLE DO I WANT AROUND ME? QUESTION 3: WHAT KIND OF WORLD DO I WANT TO LIVE IN? QUESTION 4: WHAT AM I DOING TO MAKE THIS ALL A REALITY? Those BOLD, audacious actions that bring courage in the face of fear, shake you out of your Comfort Zone, reignite your passion. And get you everything you want. I know because I’ve lived it. Gone from hesitant, shy, comfortable and complacent, watching other guys get what I wanted… to bold, confident, audacious, and fulfilled. I’ve also seen it happen over and over again with my clients and audiences. Questions in This Episode “What is it about men that tends to put more emphasis on what we’re doing?” “Do you spend much time on that notion of first be a good husband?” “For those men who hear that word king and they seem to squirm a little bit, how do you help them better embrace, what is it you’re trying to say when you use the word king?” “In your work with men, which ones seem to be the most difficult for men?” “How have you worked commitment into your work with men and women?” “Would you mind sharing an example where perhaps you got stuck and what did it take to get unstuck? Or a client example that would help illustrate that point?” “Can you walk us through what that might look like? What are the options people have if they work with you and your organization?” “As you kind of reflect on this conversation what do you want our viewers, the listeners of this podcast to have as their takeaways?” Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://ericrogell.com/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericrogell/ Facebook — https://www.facebook.com/ericrogell.podcast/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Dominick Domasky. Dominick is an author, storyteller, and founder of the inspiration sharing and Publishing platform, Motivation Champs. My friends Chris Michelle and Harry Spate work closely with Dominick as their publisher, and he is getting very, very high praises from both of them. And just based on those conversations I wanted to have you on as a guest welcome Dominick. Dominick Domasky’s Bio Dominick Domasky is a publisher, author, storyteller, and founder of the inspiration sharing platform Motivation Champs. His greatest accomplishments are his two children and he aspires to be the best husband and father he can be. Dominick and Motivation Champs share inspiration, smiles, and positivity 24/7 and help others do the same. This mission is accomplished through publishing, screenwriting, a large social media footprint, in person events and work with nonprofits. At Motivation Champs our passion is storytelling and we believe everyone has a story to share. Publishing a book shouldn’t be so complicated and we help authors navigate these turbulent waters. Each author we work with has unique goals and no one program is right for everyone. Our services include concept development, cover design, eBooks, editing, formatting, ghostwriting, hardbacks, marketing, paperbacks, websites, and more. We publish self-help, fitness, faith, motivation, inspiration, business, children’s, devotional, and numerous other types of books in related genres. Questions in This Episode “How have you found writing a book? How has that changed in the last five to 10 years?” “What feelings does that evoke? How important are feelings when you’re writing?” “When you are working with folks, maybe even outside of publishing a book, how do you help people kinda tap into who they are and the best way to express that?” “Tell us a little bit about Dominick’s story. How did you come into where you are currently?” “Can you share an example where perhaps you got stuck? You’re supposed to be the positive person here. You are stuck. Could you mind share an example where that might have happened and what did it take to get unstuck?” “What might be something that I should have asked that I haven’t yet?” “Dominick, as you kinda reflect on what we’ve talked about, particularly around the theme of storytelling, what do you want our listeners to remember?” Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://www.motivationchamps.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominickdomasky

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jennie Hobbs – She is the Senior Vice President of Human Resources at Upstream Rehabilitation. Jennie has held progressive HR leadership roles in multiple industries, and she has experience in all of HR including recruitment, retention, training development, affirmative action, policy development, and much, much more. Jennie Hobb’s Company We are a outpatient physical therapy company. We’re actually the largest outpatient physical therapy company. We’re in 28 states. Currently have 1200 locations. And what we do is help people get better. If they’ve been injured or had a surgery, and our, we have an amazing group of physical therapists and occupational therapists that help people get better. Questions in This Episode “Tell us about what Upstream Rehabilitation does, please.” “What are the data that you find is most important?” “How long has your organization been doing employee surveys?” “What things have you observed from your vantage point that as an employer are forever changed?” “And has that created any resentment?” “Tell our viewers and listeners a little more about you and your career progression.” “What do you think business leaders get wrong about human resources?” “Why have y’all chosen to emphasize fun in your organization?” “Would you be willing to share an example where perhaps you got stuck and when that happened, what did it take to get unstuck?” “As you step back and reflect on your career thus far, what might be some of the high points?” “What else would you like to add to that? To put things in proper perspective?” “What is the power of in fact listening?” “Have you found that the issues you dealt with in trucking from a people standpoint are very similar to the same issues that you deal with leading the largest rehab organization in the United States?” “As you look back on what you have shared, what do you want our listeners to have as takeaways?” Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://urpt.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennie-hobbs-sphr-21842a2/

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Todd Aaron – Todd and his team at Numerus Capital understand that your potential clients want to obtain your high-ticket professional services & products TODAY but need help overcoming their budgetary constraints. Todd Aaron’s Company The Numerus Capital team has provided financing and capital solutions to retailers, consumers and businesses for more than 90 years that expand and accelerate their sales/growth. We have facilitated hundreds of millions of dollars of consumer finance transactions, business-to-consumer loans and business-to-business equipment leasing maximizing sales, making businesses more competitive and converting customers into repeat buyers of goods and services. Our retail finance solutions enable merchants to provide customers Everyone-Approved access to quality credit by offering market-leading technology and finance programs giving businesses the ability to: Close more sales and convert credit declines into approvals Offer customers instant credit decisions and access to credit Provide extended same as cash promotions driving repeat purchasing Increase average sale amounts by matching customer budgets to monthly payments Questions in This Episode “What caught my attention about you is that you are doing something that listeners might not even realize could apply to them. How has technology helped you and your company, Numerus Capital, what doors has that opened for you and your business for clients?” “The first thing we’re gonna be talking about is the service that you offer, which would be customer financing. What are they doing? And gives us an idea of the range that could ever very well be.” “Can you list just off the top of your heads, the types of folks who have said by making Numerus Capital available what would that include? Beyond the obvious?” “If I had a prospective client who…would like to take advantage of your resource through your friends at Numerus Capital, but once that’s handed off to them, it’s pretty much between them and your firm and your platform. But when approved with the assumption is they’ll be approved. That means that me, you call, you might call me the vendor, but I would get paid immediately which is important to know, and that is, rather than payment plans, it gets me out of the invoicing business. And I get my money upfront if I could be so brazen in how I said that.” “I guess you’d call it consumer finance and how this can be broadened far more than I ever realized. That being a vertical for your business, you’ve got to know the vertical, and that is for those businesses that accept credit cards I think you’ve referred to it as zero cost credit card processing. Can you tell us what that means?” “Could you share examples where either you or a client got stuck and how did you help them unstuck?” “As you kind of look back on this conversation we’ve had today, what do you want our viewers and listeners to have as takeaways?” “Todd, if folks wanna learn more about what is it we’ve been talking about, what is the best way for them to reach out to you?” Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://numeruscapital.net LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ToddAaron

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Larry Kaul – co-founder of the Self-Employment Mastery System™️ and founder of Solopreneur Inc. for those like him tired of siloed solutions, ineffective conventional ideas, and quick-fix solutions. Larry Kaul’s Biography How do self-employed achievement-oriented professionals make enough income to fund their desired lifestyle without sacrificing happiness? Larry Kaul dedicated his life in 2020 to solving this problem. After two years of hosting events and running groups, Larry created, with his partner Dave Buch, the Self-Employment Mastery System and founded Solopreneur Inc. for those like him tired of siloed solutions, ineffective conventional ideas, and quick-fix solutions. This is not Larry’s first self-employment rodeo. He saw a market opening in 2012 for a new B2B sales agency, scaling quickly to the 7-figure level. In 2020 he hired a President to run the company, allowing him the freedom to explore new markets. This came after scaling and running a family business, as well as a sales consulting firm. Questions in This Episode How do you define solopreneur? Can you tell us more about the idea of happiness when it comes to solopreneurship? Do you have any guidance for people who are working in a corporate setting but considering self-employment? What is the power of community in solopreneurship? How important is it for solopreneurs to get to know themselves first? Has the COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the solopreneur movement? Can you share an example of when you or a client got stuck in their solopreneur journey? What do you want listeners to take away from our conversation? How can people reach out to you for more information? Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://www.gosoloinc.com/optin-576066101671469153482 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrykaul/

In today’s episode, Mike talks to Igor Kheifets, the world’s highest-paid email marketer. Igor specializes in helping average people break the link between their time and their income. Igor Kheifets’ Biography He’s the Amazon best-selling author of List Building Lifestyle: Confessions of an Email Millionaire, a book where he tells the story of how he went from scrubbing ketchup off plastic trays as a Burger King bus boy to becoming a cash millionaire before his 25th birthday using nothing but email. Igor specializes in helping average people create multiple streams of income using nothing but their laptop and an internet connection without previous experience or lots of free time. Get Igor’s book at https://igorsbook.com today. Questions in This Episode What is the List-Building Lifestyle and what is list building? What led Igor to create a team that is 100% remote? What are some key factors in the success of managing a remote team? How does Igor make known the goals and deadlines to his team? How does Igor differentiate the types of people he uses on his remote team? What are some insights that Igor has learned in managing teams? How can people reach out to Igor and learn more about the List-Building Lifestyle and his podcast? Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://igorsbook.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/igor-kheifets-891411163

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Thom Van Dycke, a Certified StoryBrand Guide from Manitoba Canada. He is an expert in helping businesses find their brand voice to stand out in the marketplace. He is a champion for clear communication in all messaging. Thom Van Dycke’s Biography Thom Van Dycke is a Certified StoryBrand Guide from Manitoba Canada. He is an expert in helping businesses find their brand voice so that they stand out in the marketplace. Thom is married to Tara and they have 8 children. They are foster and adoption advocates and have welcomed 30 foster children into their home since 2011. Questions in This Episode What is StoryBrand? How do you help your clients find their brand’s voice? What type of client resonates best with this concept of embracing you as a guide? What type of clients find that you are the best StoryBrand guide to affiliate with? In your process, where do you find that your clients have the most difficulty implementing what it is that you’re recommending? Can you think of an example of a situation where perhaps you or a client got stuck? And how did you help them get unstuck? If folks wanna reach out to you, what’s the best way for them to do so? Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://www.thomvandycke.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/thom-van-dycke

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Troy Hipolito – The Not So Boring LinkedIn Guy

In today’s episode, Mike talks with Susan Borke – the Principal of BorkeWorks is passionate about helping people develop as effective negotiators. She believes no one is born a master negotiator. Great negotiation skills come from a combination of knowledge, training, and practice. Susan Borke’s Biography “If you don’t ask, you don’t get.” Susan Borke first used this simple principle as a financially-strapped college student who needed to find a way to get course credit for an unpaid internship, without paying tuition. It was one of her first successful negotiations and helped to spark her passion for teaching this strategy, and other effective negotiating techniques, to business people of every level. Susan Borke, the Principal of BorkeWorks is passionate about helping people develop as effective negotiators. She believes no one is born a master negotiator. Great negotiation skills come from a combination of knowledge, training, and practice. Susan has over 35 years of negotiating and negotiation training experience with domestic and international commercial companies, educational institutions, and nonprofits as a media executive at CBS and in-house counsel at the National Geographic Society. In addition to her private corporate and nonprofit clients, Susan is an adjunct professor at Georgetown University School of Continuing Studies teaching their negotiation course. Questions in This Episode Now negotiation, when people think of negotiation, they might automatically assume formal negotiation. Negotiation kind of surfaces in so many different ways. Does it not? Can you just kinda walk us through with when someone enrolls in a negotiation course at Georgetown, what is it that they’re learning? What is it you’re helping them get a better grasp for? When I think of negotiations, I think of two dug-in parties coming to the table and they’re trying to get out of the other party something that they want. That’s not really an accurate representation of what negotiation is, is it? How do you help negotiators better understand the other position? Now, is there a word for that? An ability to understand another perspective? So cognitive empathy, and that is one’s ability to understand another’s perspective, you may not agree is a starting point. Continue walking us through that, if that’s the starting point. What else goes into this? You used the word excavating a moment ago, and I thought that was a very descriptive word, particularly when I was envisioning National Geographic. But the, the way you have to kind of go down in layers I don’t wanna get too far afield, but I’ve always had a natural curiosity about this and that is the, the mindset that people have going into negotiation does sometimes do those positions get determined at an early point in one’s life in terms of how, how conflict might be in that dealt with in, in a family. And, and does that factor to any of your training for negotiation at all? I’m listening to you say that assumptions versus hypothesis, hypothesis sounds a little more scientific, a little more detached, whereas assumptions feel, at least seem to me be a more, more personal. Is that right? Susan. We just got back. My wife and I got back from being in New York and I, I think of, the United Nations and I think of negotiations that are protracted over days, weeks, years. And that’s a different type of negotiation from everyday negotiation. Why don’t we come back to everyday negotiation? I know you’re working primarily with people who might be in Business school or the like. But can you give maybe some other examples where negotiation kind of is inherent in everyday life? As people know, these are not scripted conversations, but you came up with a, a perfect illustration of how just everyday negotiation is something that we need to be attuned to and at a, it happens much more than we might would realize. Susan, as you think about situations where perhaps you or a client might have gotten stuck, can you reflect on that and maybe share with us what did it take for them to get unstuck. You shed quite a bit of light on just the dimensions of negotiating. If you were to kind of reflect on what you’ve shared with us, what do you want the takeaways to be? Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – www.borkeworks.com LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanborke/

With both Italian and American citizenship, Rebecca grew up in Switzerland, attending British, Swiss, and American schools. Her upbringing was a natural education in avoiding “lost in translation” moments by verifying information before assuming she understood it. This has served her well in business, applying a data-driven approach to her work. Rebecca Brizi’s Biography Ask 12 Italian grandmothers for their tomato sauce recipe, and you will get thirteen different answers. They will all use tomatoes, olive oil, and basil… but the quantities will vary, as will the one special ingredient everyone has. Every business has to have loyal customers, dedicated employees, and proper business goals, but the specific recipe is unique to each entity. Rebecca Brizi examines each business to discover what their special, unique recipe is, and builds a plan for all those separate ingredients to function well together, so the business owners can focus on what they do best: their craft. Rebecca built her career managing the many moving ingredients of a software company, joining at the initial startup phase and moving the company through a major product change, to establishing a new office and subsidiary company in the United States. This office was generating more than 45% of the company’s business growth (by volume and value) within 3 years. Since March 2017, Rebecca works providing consulting to small businesses to achieve happy employees, loyal customers, and all of their business goals. Questions in This Episode What kind of led you to your current role as a management consultant? What do you mean by thinking big and acting small? Do you find that because they’ve brought you in, they may have gotten caught up in the weeds? How do you help a client take all of these ideas and put ’em into a plan? What is the communication look like? How do you know it’s working? To what extent is it reinforcing these aspirations? Links & Resources Mentioned… Rebecca’s Website – https://rgbrizi.com/ Rebecca’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgbrizi/ Rebecca’s Book – Phrases for Business Success http://rebrand.ly/ct4jn https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WHF3869/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 Rebecca’s Weekly Business Tip – Tuesday On Your Business https://rgbrizi.com/subscribe-to-my-newsletter/ Rebecca’s Youtube Channel – Consultant Corner: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFhkoqC7DfnFHGRYrxZ1SXg __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

With both Italian and American citizenship, Rebecca grew up in Switzerland, attending British, Swiss, and American schools. Her upbringing was a natural education in avoiding “lost in translation” moments by verifying information before assuming she understood it. This has served her well in business, applying a data-driven approach to her work. Rebecca Brizi’s Biography Ask 12 Italian grandmothers for their tomato sauce recipe, and you will get thirteen different answers. They will all use tomatoes, olive oil, and basil… but the quantities will vary, as will the one special ingredient everyone has. Every business has to have loyal customers, dedicated employees, and proper business goals, but the specific recipe is unique to each entity. Rebecca Brizi examines each business to discover what their special, unique recipe is, and builds a plan for all those separate ingredients to function well together, so the business owners can focus on what they do best: their craft. Rebecca built her career managing the many moving ingredients of a software company, joining at the initial startup phase and moving the company through a major product change, to establishing a new office and subsidiary company in the United States. This office was generating more than 45% of the company’s business growth (by volume and value) within 3 years. Since March 2017, Rebecca works providing consulting to small businesses to achieve happy employees, loyal customers, and all of their business goals. Questions in This Episode What kind of led you to your current role as a management consultant? What do you mean by thinking big and acting small? Do you find that because they’ve brought you in, they may have gotten caught up in the weeds? How do you help a client take all of these ideas and put ’em into a plan? What is the communication look like? How do you know it’s working? To what extent is it reinforcing these aspirations? Links & Resources Mentioned… Rebecca’s Website – https://rgbrizi.com/ Rebecca’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rgbrizi/ Rebecca’s Book – Phrases for Business Success http://rebrand.ly/ct4jn https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B07WHF3869/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i0 Rebecca’s Weekly Business Tip – Tuesday On Your Business https://rgbrizi.com/subscribe-to-my-newsletter/ Rebecca’s Youtube Channel – Consultant Corner: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFhkoqC7DfnFHGRYrxZ1SXg __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

“Business success is predictable, failure is inevitable, and change is required. If you are not willing to change, improve your systems, strategies, and mind, your business will inevitably fail.”-Nahchon Guyton Nahchon Guyton’s Biography Nahchon has an innate desire to influence people’s thinking which has a long-term impact on their life. Nahchon began his professional career in training and development in the early 2000s. His one-of-a-kind, encouraging, inspiring, and thought-provoking nature. He encourages you to think beyond the regular mediocrity. He uses this skill as a business coach to lead, position, and establish concrete plans for business owners, helping them be the BEST CEO and developing a lucrative enterprise that functions without them. Questions in This Episode This term, the developer. Why has that stuck with you? What is it about fear that paralyzes? In which ways have you found business leaders, business owners encountering or failure to encounter fear, and what has the consequence of not effectively addressing those landmines? Do you ever deal with the issue of fear from a sales standpoint? Fear of reaching out? Links & Resources Mentioned… Nahchon’s Website – https://themlbcoach.com/ Nahchon’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/nahchon-the-developer-guyton-60493816/ __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

As President and CEO of Safety Consultants USA, Kate Badey leads a team of safety professionals to help clients achieve their safety goals. Kate Badey’s Biography Kate collaborates with Safety Consultants USA’s team of senior advisors to manage the needs of each client. She aligns each client’s unique safety goals with expert advice to provide a plan that addresses each of their safety challenges. When a safety-related crisis presents itself, such as an OSHA inspection, accident, or emergency, Kate makes sure clients have a knowledgeable and responsive team to guide them. Kate has been a part of Safety Consultants USA’s success since its founding in 2008 and has served in the role of President & CEO since 2020. She is active in several associations that serve the verticals that Safety Consultants USA provides services for. Kate will be a 2023-2024 Board Member for the Associated Builders and Contractors of Georgia. Questions in This Episode What are the elements for an organization to have a strong safety culture? Can you give us some examples of what a leading indicator is? What might be the common barriers you see that companies struggle with when they try to start something like a safety committee? You stress the importance of safety. The importance of involving all levels with organization and safety processes, safety committees. How does that tie back into a strong growth strategy? Where’s the link? Links & Resources Mentioned… Kate’s Website – https://safetyconsultantsusa.com/ Kate’s LinkedIn Profile – https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-badey/ Safety Consultants USA Brochure – SCUSA-8.5×11 Bifold Brochure Manufacturing Digital 100522.pdf __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

The best decisions are not always the most expensive or least expensive solutions…it depends on your organization. – Matt English Matt English’s Biography Matt English is an experienced Benefits Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the insurance industry. Skilled in Sales, Public Speaking, Insurance, Account Management, and Direct Sales. Strong human resources professional. Questions in This Episode What have you found about just the overall climate of employee benefit? When you come in, you’re not necessarily recommending radical change. You’re recommending, let’s fully utilize the options that this particular carrier might be offering, right? Do they now have the opportunity to kind of tailor to what they specifically need? What is it that they can do working with you and your team to feel as if they’re really heard? What is it about employee benefits that is so frustrating? Do you find that there’s some common themes when you do a root cause analysis that’s limiting revenue growth? Links & Resources Mentioned… Matt’s Website – http://apex-bc.com/services/ Matt’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-english-8614b465/ __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

In the last decade, AJ has launched an eBook publishing company, a global e-commerce shop, and started a number of companies. AJ Saunders Biography AJ says: It’s easy to trace where my love of digital started. A friend’s dad showed me and his son how to write HTML code. Learning the basics of how to build a website sparked a love of digital marketing that continues to this day. Over the years, I’ve developed my digital marketing skills with a strong focus on SEO, copywriting, and blogging. Even after all of these years, I’m still curious about online marketing, SaaS, and all things digital. In the last decade, I’ve launched an eBook publishing company, a global ecommerce shop, and started the current brands in the AJS Digital Group’s portfolio. Also, I’ve built countless websites for a range of clients and advised many on how to develop and implement a digital strategy for their business. Questions in This Episode What is SEO? What is a digital marketing strategy? How is marketing strategy different from marketing tactics or campaigns? How can I devise an effective digital marketing strategy? Your offer Who you are trying to reach Where they are What channels you’ll use How does marketing budget factor into strategy? Links & Resources Mentioned… AJ’s Website – https://www.ajsdigitalgroup.com/ AJ’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/aj-saunders-seo/ AJ’s VIP Session – https://www.ajsdigitalgroup.com/digital-marketing-vip-session/ __CONFIG_group_edit__{“k7g5l6bj”:{“name”:”All Icon(s)”,”singular”:”– Icon %s”},”k7g5lcax”:{“name”:”All Benefits Title(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5lqbs”:{“name”:”All Benefits Paragraph(s)”,”singular”:”– Text %s”},”k7g5m31m”:{“name”:”All Benefits Content Box(s)”,”singular”:”– Content Box %s”},”k7g5mavb”:{“name”:”All Benefits Column(s)”,”singular”:”– Column %s”},”k7g5mib9″:{“name”:”All Benefits Columns(s)”,”singular”:”– Columns %s”}}__CONFIG_group_edit____CONFIG_local_colors__{“colors”:{“07df8″:”Mercury”,”09f54″:”Royal Blue”},”gradients”:{}}__CONFIG_local_colors__ This Quiz is Going to Access you in 3 main Areas… PEOPLE . PLANNING . PROCESSES People People is about making sure that you have the right people in the right positions in your company, and that you have a plan for how to retain and train your top talent. Planning Planning is all about knowing where you’re going and having exact steps that you can take for how you’re going to get from here to there. Process Process is about having efficient systems in place to help you get ahead of your competitors faster and with fewer mistakes. __CONFIG_colors_palette__{“active_palette”:0,”config”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“name”:”Main Accent”,”parent”:-1}},”gradients”:[]},”palettes”:[{“name”:”Default Palette”,”value”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”var(e8c68)”}},”gradients”:[]},”original”:{“colors”:{“110d6”:{“val”:”rgb(19, 114, 211)”,”hsl”:{“h”:210,”s”:0.83,”l”:0.45}}},”gradients”:[]}}]}__CONFIG_colors_palette__ Click Here To Start Quiz

Ryan is a principal in a private equity group, the CEO of two eight-figure companies, and sits on the boards of several other companies. Ryan Niddel‘s Biography Ryan Niddel is a CEO, Board Member, and Entrepreneur. He is also the leading authority on improving the revenue of companies by improving EBITDA through increased operational efficiency, lean manufacturing principles, and more. He has helped with the acquisition or exit of more than 11 companies while seeing their collective revenue surpass more than $237M. Niddel has successfully tripled the revenue of more than 5 companies in under 2 1/2 years, adding an extra $950M in valuation to these companies. Niddel began his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 10 with a local lawn mowing operation which led to being taken under the wing of a local businessman while being mentored starting at the age of 14. He currently is a principal in a private equity group, the CEO of two 8-figure companies, and sits on the board of directors for several other companies. He has built a reputation as Ohio’s top business growth specialist and as someone able to rapidly improve the profitability of a company in order to achieve a higher valuation and sell for significantly more revenue. Ryan Niddel contributes to multiple charities, including Big Brother Big Sister, Operation Underground Railroad, The Buckeye Ranch, and other causes he cares about. He is in the process of launching a foundation focused on the education of the youth of today to help with the practical application of business, entrepreneurism, and capitalism. Information in This Episode Disrupter in the areas of: Rapid Revenue Generation Business Model Enhancement Strategic Restructuring Business Makeovers Links & Resources Mentioned… Ryan’s Contact Information Phone: (480) 221-2793 Business Website: http://ryanniddel.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/exitwealthy/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClmZmmxnwgL9hwWtz_194Iw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ryanniddelstrategies/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RyanNiddelStrategies

Erica D’Eramo founded Two Piers Consulting to support underrepresented communities in the workforce and provide companies with the tools & strategies to effectively create and grow truly diverse & inclusive workplaces. Erica D’Eramo‘s Biography Engineer by trade. Diversity, equity, and inclusion professional by choice. With a successful two-decade career in the international energy industry and having been one of the few women in my field, I have made it my life’s work to create diverse, inclusive, and equitable workplaces through research, best practice, and lived experiences. Passionate about reconciling the academic perspective with practical application to enable organizations to elevate their DEI efforts and change the workplace landscape through those activities with the greatest impact. In 2016, I founded Two Piers Consulting to support underrepresented communities in the workforce and provide companies with the tools and strategies to effectively create and grow truly diverse and inclusive workplaces. Questions in This Episode In today’s episode, Mike talks with Erica D’Eramo. Erica is an Engineer by trade … Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Professional by choice. Let’s learn more about DEI together. What do we mean by Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion? Why do you see DEI as being a strategic imperative for businesses? What is the cost of not getting DEI right? What are some of the key challenges when implementing DEI programs? What are some of the key myths about DEI? What can leaders do to more effectively create diverse, equitable & inclusive organizations? Links & Resources Mentioned… Erica’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/erica-deramo/ Erica’s Website – https://www.twopiersconsulting.com/

Your business should allow you to take worry-free time away, provide for you financially, and leave you with time to spend with the people that matter most to you. – Christina Hooper Christina Hooper‘s Biography Christina has been speaking for over 10 years in front of audiences of all sizes. She specializes in messaging and translating the complex topics into high-value content for your audience at any level — subscribers on a newsletter, followers on social media, butts in seats at live events, and everything in between. 100th Episode!! In today’s episode, Mike talks with Christina Hooper. Christina is the one who encouraged Mike to start a podcast. So let’s celebrate the 100th episode together! Links & Resources Mentioned… Christina’s Website – https://sparkitive.com/about/christina-hooper/

While we spend most of our time pretending to be important, serious grownups, it’s when we let go of that facade and just play, that the real magic happens. – Jeff Harry Jeff Harry’s Biography Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges through embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooHR & Engagedly as one of the Top 100 HR Influencers and has been featured in the NY Times, Mashable, Upworthy, Shondaland, & Wired. Jeff has worked with Google, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines, Adobe, the NFL, Amazon, and Facebook, helping their staff to infuse more play into the day-to-day. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jeff Harry. Jeff combines positive psychology in play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety, and help individuals address their biggest challenges. How does “Clarity” relate to “Play”? Why is “Belonging” so important? What actually happens to your brain in a state of flow/play? What is unnatural about the 8-hour workday, and how do we change it? Links & Resources Mentioned… Jeff’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffharryplays/ Jeff’s Website – rediscoveryourplay.com Jeff’s Social Media Links: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffharryplays https://instagram.com/jeffharryplays https://twitter.com/jeffharryplays https://youtube.com/jeffharryplays https://medium.com/@jeffharryplays Articles: They think they can stop burnout by playing around – Wired How to stop wasting time scrolling and start finding joy in play – Mashable How Do You Add Play To Grown-Up Life – Even Now – NY Times These people took risks and found their purpose pursuing their passion – Upworthy

While we spend most of our time pretending to be important, serious grownups, it’s when we let go of that facade and just play, that the real magic happens. – Jeff Harry Jeff Harry’s Biography Jeff Harry combines positive psychology and play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety and assist individuals in addressing their biggest challenges through embracing a play-oriented approach to work. Jeff was selected by BambooHR & Engagedly as one of the Top 100 HR Influencers and has been featured in the NY Times, Mashable, Upworthy, Shondaland, & Wired. Jeff has worked with Google, Microsoft, Southwest Airlines, Adobe, the NFL, Amazon, and Facebook, helping their staff to infuse more play into the day-to-day. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike talks with Jeff Harry. Jeff combines positive psychology in play to heal workplaces, help teams build psychological safety, and help individuals address their biggest challenges. How does “Clarity” relate to “Play”? Why is “Belonging” so important? What actually happens to your brain in a state of flow/play? What is unnatural about the 8-hour workday, and how do we change it? Links & Resources Mentioned… Jeff’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffharryplays/ Jeff’s Website – rediscoveryourplay.com Jeff’s Social Media Links: https://www.tiktok.com/@jeffharryplays https://instagram.com/jeffharryplays https://twitter.com/jeffharryplays https://youtube.com/jeffharryplays https://medium.com/@jeffharryplays Articles: They think they can stop burnout by playing around – Wired How to stop wasting time scrolling and start finding joy in play – Mashable How Do You Add Play To Grown-Up Life – Even Now – NY Times These people took risks and found their purpose pursuing their passion – Upworthy

Get back your personal and professional time by letting us do what we’ve spent years learning and perfecting. – Forward Push Marc Apple’s Biography As a kid, taking drum lessons from the same teacher who taught Bruce Springsteen’s longtime drummer was pretty cool. It also set me on the path to running the nationally recognized, award-winning digital marketing full-service marketing agency, Forward Push. Beyond the beats, what I learned at that drum set is that if you want to produce your best work, you need to surround yourself with top talent. Forward Push is the go-to creative marketing choice of clients both locally and nationally because I’ve built a talented team of digital strategists, technical experts, and creative minds. I guide this diverse team using the real-world experience I gained working in the fast-paced marketing departments of some of the country’s biggest communications companies, like CBS Radio and IHeartMedia. Forward Push specializes in inbound marketing for some of the most challenging, regulated industries like legal, healthcare, and financial services, as well as other small to midsize local businesses. Every Forward Push client gets the benefit of a customized marketing plan using the right mix of platforms based on comprehensive research, strategic planning, budget, and business development goals. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike talks with Marc about how Forward Push uses traditional and digital marketing to inspire measurable brand loyalty and drive sales. Is LinkedIn social media? If yes, how do I keep it not only social but also professional? What should I post? How often should I post? Links & Resources Mentioned… Website – https://forwardpush.com/ Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/forwardpush/ LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/forward-push/ Marc’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcapple/

Osensky Law’s business model is designed around being more cost-effective and efficient for clients. No fancy office space. No staff. No run-around. When you call Tanya, you get Tanya. Tanya Osensky’s Biography Tanya Osensky is a corporate attorney and fractional General Counsel. After over 20 years working inside the business as an in-house attorney for large companies and institutions such as Georgia-Pacific and Georgia Tech, Tanya formed her own law firm in 2017 to bring her unique in-house counsel insights to smaller companies and entrepreneurs. Unlike a traditional law firm, Tanya’s focus is on delivering the kind of legal support a business wants and needs – not just technically correct legal advice, but strategic problem-solving with a focus on providing business value to clients. Tanya has vast experience leading multi-disciplinary teams to achieve important business goals. Now, as a business owner herself, Tanya can relate to her clients and understand the challenges they face. Tanya has an established reputation for providing practical advice and perspectives based on her legal training combined with over 20 years of hands-on experience as a business lawyer and leader. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike talks with Tanya about the common mistakes startups make. And how as a business owner herself, she can relate to her clients and understand the challenges they face. Registering their company in the wrong jurisdiction Not getting a good agreement with co-founders or trying to DIY Misclassifying employees as independent contractors Not getting written agreements in place with employees or contractors – who will own the IP rights w/o a contract Doing business without contracts (especially with family/friends) Links & Resources Mentioned… Tanya’s Website – https://www.osenskylaw.com/ Tanya’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/tanyaosensky/

The Career Toolkit has been described as a multivitamin for your career. Mark Herschberg’s Biography I’ve been doing fractional CTPO work while I did a virtual book tour. I’m continuing to do fractional CTO/CPO work but would be open to the right CPTO opportunity full-time. My preferences are for cybersecurity, healthcare, or IOT, but I’ll consider others (just not adtech or cryptocurrencies). Seasoned executive and cybersecurity expert who can bridge the divide between business and technology. I have started, grown, and fixed startup companies spanning over a dozen different verticals as well as helped two Fortune 500 companies with their internal startup initiatives, and helped create educational programs at MIT and HBS. I typically lead engineering, product, and data science and co-created strategy for the company. Experienced board member. I’ve created multiple marketplaces (labor, lead gen, video, content, financial) and enjoy constructing marketplaces and surrounding lines of business. I’ve launched products in those spaces as well as messaging, cybersecurity, medical / health, and education, with over a dozen patents to my name across many industries. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… Joining Mike today from New York is Mark Herschberg. Mark is the author of The Career Toolkit – Essential Skills for Success that No One Taught You. Mark has spent his career launching and developing new ventures at startups and Fortune 500s and in academia. He helped to start MIT’s “Career Success Accelerator,” where he teaches annually. Mark’s background in scaling startups Importance of upskilling an organization Topic(s) from The Career Toolkit Links & Resources Mentioned… The Career Toolkit Website Links https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com/app https://apps.apple.com/us/app/id1520119819 (apple) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.thecareertoolkitapp&hl=en_US (android) https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com/resources COGNOSCO Media Website Links https://www.cognoscomedia.com/brain-bump (Brain Bump app) https://apps.apple.com/us/app/brain-bump/id1616654954 (apple) https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.brainbump&hl=en_US&gl=US (android) Social Media Links https://www.linkedin.com/in/hershey/ https://twitter.com/CareerToolkitBk https://www.facebook.com/TheCareerToolkitBook https://www.instagram.com/thecareertoolkit/

Cashflow Cookbook includes more than $13,000 of monthly savings ideas. Yes, monthly! Will all of them work for you? – Gordon Stein Gordon Stein’s Biography Gordon Stein, BESc, MBA, CSC, CFEI Gordon Stein is an international keynote speaker, blogger, personal finance expert, and author of Cashflow Cookbook – $2 Million of Financial Freedom in 60 Easy Recipes. He delivers transformational talks that help people crush their number one stress – their finances. His mission is to improve financial wellness and help his audience regain focus, balance, and joy in their lives. Gordon combines his trademark wit and storytelling style about a breakthrough path to financial wellness with no risk, minimal effort, minimal sacrifice, and no budgeting. He works with wealth firms to show clients how to free up more cashflow for investing and dramatically accelerate their wealth building. His talks to associations and employee groups provide concrete steps to improve their financial wellness – an often-missed component of overall wellness. And his presentations to high schools and colleges are critical to engage students on financial wellness and help close the gap on financial literacy. In his earlier career, Gordon was a senior sales, marketing, and operations executive at high-tech companies, including Dell and Apple. Gordon holds a degree in Mechanical Engineering from Western University and an MBA from the Rotman School of Business. He has also completed the Canadian Securities Course and the U.S. Certified Financial Education Instructor designation from the National Financial Education Council. He has volunteered with the Western Alumni Board, the Western Engineering Dean’s Advisory Council, and the Crescent School Board of Governors. He is currently a member of the National Financial Educators Council and the National Speakers Association. In his free time, Gordon is a downhill ski racer, sailor, fitness enthusiast, and not-yet-great (ok, not even good) guitar player. His thoughts on personal finance can be found at cashflowcookbook.com. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike talks with Gordon Stein. Gordon offers a breakthrough path to financial wellness with no risk, minimal effort, minimal sacrifice, and no budgeting. Stop living from one paycheck to the next End the arguments about money Forget the hassle of budgeting Eliminate worries about funding your retirement Trade tossing and turning for a good night of sleep Links & Resources Mentioned… Gordon’s Book on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Cashflow-Cookbook-Million-Financial-Freedom-ebook/dp/B0B2JDYG5Z Gordon’s Social Links https://www.facebook.com/cashflowcookbook https://twitter.com/cashflowcookbk https://www.instagram.com/cashflowcookbook/

Gina Riley is an authority in career transition. She is the creator of the trademarked Career Velocity SystemÔ – a comprehensive solution that helps leaders & executives map out a transition strategy to last throughout their career. Gina Riley’s Biography Gina Riley is a Human Resources professional who sits at the powerful convergence between Career Coaching, Executive Search and Interview Skills Training. She is an authority in career transition and is the creator of the CareerVelocity System™ – a comprehensive solution helping leaders and executives map out their transition strategy to last throughout their career. Gina brings over 25 years of experience from small business to Fortune 50 companies. She has a Master’s degree in Whole Systems Design and has held positions in recruitment, management of a 500-student intern program, work on M&A initiatives and served as HR Business Consultant to several executive teams. She developed, designed, and delivered training programs on a wide variety of topics. She is sought after for her thought leadership and expertise in the areas of professional networking and career development. She spoke at Portland’s first Disrupt HR forum and has conducted seminars on networking to help job seekers improve their ability to make meaningful and mutually advantageous professional connections. She was also a speaker at the 2019 Career Thought Leaders Symposium sharing expertise with career experts on how to advise coaching clients on how to build effective relationships with executive level recruiters. She led a new Employer Brand initiative for a $4B world-wide company headquartered in Portland and provided interview training to all their US managers in Oregon, Arkansas, and Texas. Additionally, she conducted interview training for the leadership team at a renown winery in Napa Valley. Gina is also a certified YouMap® coach, starting with her client’s strengths, values, skills, motivators, and leadership traits to help them powerfully integrate their unique attributes so their storytelling lands in every conversation or interview. She uses a rare strength combination of focus and action, customizing her coaching to help clients get career velocity so they can deliver their career story in a powerful way that resonates. Gina’s unique approach and framework help leaders showcase themselves as a “Business In A Business” and position themselves as authoritative problem solvers with undeniable, specialized leadership services. Because she is a continuous learner and prolific networker, Gina has forged relationships with cutting edge authorities in the field of careers and leadership around the world, constantly folding in fresh, relevant ways to help clients to accelerate their career transition success. With leadership clients that span coast to coast, her clients say she “connects familiar dots in new ways” and “pulls back the curtain” to share unseen processes and unheard conversations from an executive recruiter’s perspective. When Gina is not coaching or recruiting, she spends time studying leadership trends, volunteering to help others build professional skills, cooking, making old-fashioneds, or hiking in Central Oregon with her family. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… On today’s episode Mike talks with Gina Riley. Gina is an HR professional who sits at the powerful convergence between Career Coaching, Executive Search, and Interview-Skills Training. Quotables “Telling your career story shouldn’t be that hard.” Gina Riley “I’m getting interviews, but something isn’t landing.” Gina Riley “In my role as a career coach, I shift my clients’ mindset from “quick resume fix” to helping them develop a sustainable professional career plan. I take a modern approach, by considering the things that crowd our lives, limit our time and attention span, and cause us to neglect our own long-range planning.” Gina Riley Links & Resources Mentioned… Gina’a Website – https://ginarileyconsulting.com/ Gina’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginariley/

It’s time to “Ditch the Pitch & Start Connecting!”™ Laura Templeton Laura Templeton’s Biography Laura Templeton is the Founder and Chief Instigator at 30 Second Success, a company helping coaches, consultants, and service providers make better connections and obtain more business in 30 seconds or less. As a Global Speaker, Author of 30 Second Success: Ditch the pitch and start connecting! and Brand Communications Consultant, Laura educates in-person and virtual audiences on value-based communications that take your creativity to the next level and help you step into owning and sharing your brilliance with confidence. Laura is currently working on the next book in the 30 Second Success series. In her spare time, she enjoys exploring her new home state of Florida, spending time with family, friends, and Knox (her co-working dog), and teaching Archery to anyone interested in learning. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike and Laura talk about the next book in the 30 Second Success series and how action leads to momentum. Quotables It’s about making the sale, closing the deal. And in this day and age, it’s the importance of connecting with people and how much further those deep connections take you changes everything. – Laura Templeton When you’re networking, it’s about grabbing someone’s attention and getting them to wanna know more, getting them to have a deeper conversation with you. – Laura Templeton Once we build a relationship with them and help them understand what we do, they can then go out and speak on our behalf to the people that they know or someone that they might overhear talking about their struggles. – Laura Templeton When you think about it, the 30-second message, it’s really about grabbing someone’s attention because the attention span of humans has been dwindled down from like 12 per, I think it was like 12 seconds, you know, in the 80s, and now it’s about seven seconds. – Laura Templeton Links & Resources Mentioned… 30 Second Success LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/30secondsuccess/ Youtube – http://bit.ly/YouTube-30SecondSuccess Twitter – https://twitter.com/30SecondSuccess Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/30secondsuccess/ Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/30SecondSuccess/

Heather is the VP of Client Success & Broker Development for Chattanooga-based Steam Logistics. I met Heather at the Annual Meeting of the International Business Council. Heather Williams’ Biography Heather Williams is an Experienced Customer Experience Manager with a history of working in the logistics and supply chain industry. Skilled in Training, Processes Improvement Methodology (SOP), Microsoft Suite, and Sales/Marketing Presentations. Her passion is to develop a strong business relationship while also using her skills to provide quality training and management within her organization. Proactively setting her company up for success to create a standardization of processes within the organization to best serve their customers and create a white glove experience for them. She provides internal strategic support that develops our brokers to become the best in the business. It is her #1 goal to be a resource of knowledge bother internally and externally. Heather is always looking for new ways to learn how to better herself to better serve her customers and peers alike. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… In today’s episode, Mike and Heather discuss her insights on client success and how to provide best-in-class service. For our starting point, Heather tells us a little bit more about who Steam Logistics is. Quotables The supply chain is gonna be all of what encompasses all things freight-oriented, and logistics is kind of figuring out how we move that freight. – Heather Williams You see it often in the tech industry, and it’s basically best-in-class customer service, but it developed last May here at Steam. I was actually the first person to get it going here at Steam, alongside John Poehnelt, who is our CCO. – Heather Williams With client success, we’re kind of coming alongside and providing that support tool to help them manage that book of business effectively and using our best practices. – Heather Williams Links & Resources Mentioned… Heather’s LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-williams-815b7780/ Website – https://www.steamlogistics.com/ End Non-competes Website – https://www.endnoncompetes.com/

For the last 15 years, Ben has helped clients plan for and realize their retirement goals. This makes Ben the perfect guest to help us better understand retirement matters, Social Security in particular. Ben Francis’ Biography Ben Francis is the Director of Retirement Income and Investment Operations with Bryce Thomas at Northwestern Mutual. With over a decade of experience helping clients plan for and realize their retirement goals, Ben works with Bryce to address the specific challenges that arise leading up to, during, and after the transition from accumulation into the decumulation phase of life. Social Security, distribution planning, income generation, investment strategies, and risk management are some of the areas they review with clients on an ongoing basis. While this transition is never the same for any individual or couple, it can be a smooth and rewarding journey when handled with the attention and care that Bryce and Ben provide as a team. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… Mike and Ben discuss Social Security and personal examples by which, through family members, they kind of got thrust into Social Security. And how listeners who have said, “Oh, wait a second. I’m a long way off from that. I don’t need to listen to this.” should really give this a listen. Quotables I think for a lot of people, it’s not very realistic at all. A lot of folks think, “Hey, I’m saving this, my 401k. 65’s gonna come around, and I’m gonna retire. It’s gonna be a done deal.” And so I think in a lot of people’s minds, they have this switch that they’re gonna flip when they get to 65, and that’s not at all realistic. – Ben Francis I’m gonna flip a switch, and I’m gonna be retired.” It’s just not that simple. There’s so much more that goes into it. – Ben Francis Is that 80% rule really gonna work?” So I think it’s a good starting point, but I wouldn’t just assume that that’s gonna be the right number for you, especially if you haven’t given it much thought. – Ben Francis Links & Resources Mentioned… Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-francis-cfp%C2%AE-ricp%C2%AE-msfs-wmcp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-0257b613/ Company Website: http://brycethomas.nm.com/

For the last 15 years, Ben has helped clients plan for and realize their retirement goals. This makes Ben the perfect guest to help us better understand retirement matters, Social Security in particular. Ben Francis’ Biography Ben Francis is the Director of Retirement Income and Investment Operations with Bryce Thomas at Northwestern Mutual. With over a decade of experience helping clients plan for and realize their retirement goals, Ben works with Bryce to address the specific challenges that arise leading up to, during, and after the transition from accumulation into the decumulation phase of life. Social Security, distribution planning, income generation, investment strategies, and risk management are some of the areas they review with clients on an ongoing basis. While this transition is never the same for any individual or couple, it can be a smooth and rewarding journey when handled with the attention and care that Bryce and Ben provide as a team. In This Episode, You’ll Learn… Mike and Ben discuss Social Security and personal examples by which, through family members, they kind of got thrust into Social Security. And how listeners who have said, “Oh, wait a second. I’m a long way off from that. I don’t need to listen to this.” should really give this a listen. Quotables I think for a lot of people, it’s not very realistic at all. A lot of folks think, “Hey, I’m saving this, my 401k. 65’s gonna come around, and I’m gonna retire. It’s gonna be a done deal.” And so I think in a lot of people’s minds, they have this switch that they’re gonna flip when they get to 65, and that’s not at all realistic. – Ben Francis I’m gonna flip a switch, and I’m gonna be retired.” It’s just not that simple. There’s so much more that goes into it. – Ben Francis Is that 80% rule really gonna work?” So I think it’s a good starting point, but I wouldn’t just assume that that’s gonna be the right number for you, especially if you haven’t given it much thought. – Ben Francis Links & Resources Mentioned… Ben’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-francis-cfp%C2%AE-ricp%C2%AE-msfs-wmcp%C2%AE-chfc%C2%AE-clu%C2%AE-0257b613/ Company Website: http://brycethomas.nm.com/