The $100 MBA Show

Personal finance is different for entrepreneurs.For the conventionally employed, so many expenses and lifestyle choices are dictated by the job. But for independent business owners, the equation is much more flexible.Unfortunately, not every entrepreneur takes advantage of that fact.Today, Omar offers advice from his own experience on how to do better financially in your private life, even as your business goes through its normal ups and downs. By leveraging the unique freedom entrepreneurship offers, you can get a leg up that regular folk simply don’t have access to.It’s just a matter of customizing your lifestyle.Hear the questions you should be asking yourself (or your accountant), and start figuring out if there’s untapped financial potential in your life. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s a great problem to have: being forced to choose between good, steady pay and the opportunity to start your own business.…but it’s a problem nonetheless.It’s Q&A Wednesday, and one of our listeners is in a big ol’ success pickle! They put over a year into building their own business on the side, while simultaneously working an unrewarding dead-end day job — or so they thought. Just as the time to make the final leap to entrepreneurship was approaching, the day job offered our listener a huge promotion (and a sizable raise). We’re sweating just hearing about it.Today, Omar helps this listener — and anyone in a similar position — make one of the biggest calls ever. The key to finding the “right” answer? Taking a deep, hard, honest look at what really matters to you. Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There’s money to be made in the software game — even if you couldn’t code your way out of a wet paper bag.Entrepreneurs looking to make online income (even the “passive” kind, insofar as that exists) can’t do better than SaaS products. There’s no inventory, no shipping, and lots of recurring revenue month after month. And if you choose…there’s no software engineering involved.How? Affiliate marketing is how.You can make an entire income by piggybacking off someone else’s software. The key is to find the audience you have the most credibility with, and steer them towards the affiliate products you can honestly recommend.Hear our breakdown of how to get into the affiliate software game, and start pulling in that dough. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Whatever you’re worried about, it’s probably not that big of a deal.That can be hard to hear. It can be hard to acknowledge. But it’s also very, very true.Today, we review a classic: Don’t Sweat the Small Stuff by Richard Carlson. Omar first read this book 17 years ago, well before he became an independent business person. But since then, he’s read it — and referred back to it — over and over.Some books just stick with you.In this Must-Read book review, we unpack the philosophy that made this best-seller such an important part of millions of people’s outlooks. By zooming out and putting your stressors in perspective, you can take a much healthier, and even more productive, approach to life and entrepreneurship.Discover all our must-read book reviews at https://100mba.net/bookreviews.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Are you holding your business back?It’s a classic problem for solopreneurs and small businesses. The founder is used to personally taking care of everything; but when the business gains traction, there are more decisions than anyone can handle alone. As a result, the work backs up behind one person, whose inability to let other people share the steering wheel slows the whole operation down. Is this you?Today, we’ll discuss how to assess whether this is happening in your business. More importantly, we’ll share what you can do about it. We would know — at one point, our very own Omar realized that if he didn’t get out of the team’s way, we’d be stuck in a rut.Swallow your pride, and take your business from plateauing to growing. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The online community: is it just a gimmick, or an important part of a modern business approach?Whether it’s a Facebook group, a Slack channel, Discord, or something else, giving your customers a place to hang out together can have its advantages. But of course, someone has to devote the time and effort necessary to build and maintain these communities. Today, we explore what it takes to create and manage an online community, and what your business can gain from it. While not appropriate for every kind of business, a community can drive customer loyalty, retention, and help spread good word of mouth.We’ll share our experience with these communities, and why we’re currently creating one for our own customers.Get a sense of the cost and potential ROI of bringing your customers together. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Engagement is crucial. But how much engagement can you handle?It’s Q&A Wednesday, and we’ve got a listener with a problem that most creators would be happy to have. Their social feeds and YouTube channel are brimming with comments!The problem: do all these comments need replies?You have to engage, but it’s impossible to keep up with every comment on a popular account. How much is too much? How much is too little? This listener is burning out fast by replying to pretty much everything. Is it worth it?Today, we offer a system for maintaining the conversation without losing your marbles. By prioritizing certain kinds of engagement and creating firm boundaries, you can strike a balance between engagement and exhaustion.To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The ‘Great Resignation’ set a lot of talent loose. The options for all kinds of workers are better than ever, and opportunities for better employment abound.So why should your team stick with you?It’s a question every business owner should ask, especially now. Today, we share how we maintain a solid relationship with all our employees, so top talent doesn’t head for the door.Spoiler alert: it’s not all about the money.In this episode, we lay out our strategy for engaging with our team in a way that makes them feel heard, valued, and appreciated. Surprisingly enough, most companies don’t do the one thing that can drastically boost employee loyalty, and help you be a better boss.Find out how we keep ‘em in the family. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’re not well, your business can’t be. There’s nothing woo-woo about it. Keeping your mind, body, and energy in good shape is key to making the best decisions, being productive, and making entrepreneurship a healthy pursuit. But of course, that’s easier said than done for busy founders. Kerrie Otto de Grancy & Marie Louise take a conscious, holistic approach to putting all your wellness ducks in a row. Today, they’re here with 4 key areas to focus on, as well as 5 ways to improve your overall well-being to the point where both you and your business can reach the next level.Break out the notebook for this one! This lesson is packed with valuable insights into the nature of health, business, and where the two meet. Click Play!Evolve Yourself InstituteSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So you created an app. But can you sell it totally on your own, or should you make it available on the most popular marketplaces: the App store, Play store, etc? What do you have to gain? What do you have to lose? Today, we run a SWOT (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) analysis for independent app developers. There are very good reasons to work with a major app store, but also undeniable drawbacks. So what’s your move?Tune in to this discussion, and decide if being on a big app marketplace can work in the context of your specific business model. We’ll lay out the facts, so you can make the right decision for you.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

If you’re not growing, you’re dying.That’s just as true for a business founder as it is for the business itself. If you’re not improving your ability to run a business, your business can stagnate.In other words, you can never stop upping your game.But how do you go about that? What can you do in concrete terms to make sure you’re developing as an entrepreneur? In this episode, we help you do exactly that.Today, we explain how to identify and narrow down key areas of improvement to focus on over the course of the year. This isn’t just advice we’re giving; it’s the exact system Omar uses annually, including for 2022.Get a handle on your professional development, and take specific action to keep your butt off your own laurels. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some countries cover their citizens’ healthcare needs. Some cover a portion. In others, employers are the only real source of coverage.So if you’re hiring globally, what the heck kind of health plan do you even offer?It’s Q&A Wednesday, and one of our listeners is building a borderless distributed team. How can they possibly accommodate the needs of…everyone? It’s a fair question, one that’s becoming more important as remote work becomes the norm.In this episode, we discuss all the factors you have to consider, and how expectations vary from nation to nation. Learn what you can expect when it’s time to hire from abroad, and where to find help and services that help small businesses tackle the healthcare question. Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

As we like to say, your website is your biz.Even if you have a physical store or office, your site can make or break your whole operation. But of course, every website needs regular maintenance, updates, and protection from cyber-threats in order to run properly. Is that the kind of thing you can do on your own, indefinitely? Or do you need someone to be in charge of it?More importantly, is this “someone” a full-time hire?Today, we discuss what your website needs, and who your website needs. If something goes wrong, every minute your site is down can cost thousands. And even when everything is working fine, constant tweaks and updates are necessary. Even if you’re a solopreneur for now, your website’s needs will grow with your company. At some point, ensuring those needs are met may be worth a full-time salary. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s been quite a year for adversity.From a global pandemic and its effects on hiring and supply chains, to a drastic reckoning with structural inequality, times got tough.But as any successful entrepreneur will tell you, navigating adversity is the one skill that everyone in every business needs. So how can you dig deep and respond constructively when the struggle becomes real?Jessica Norwood is an activist and entrepreneur who specializes in overcoming adversity. Today, she’s here with 4 powerful insights that only experience with true adversity could produce. Entrepreneurship is about being challenged; the choice to start a business is a choice to face adversity head-on. With this lesson, Jessica shares practical wisdom that can prepare pretty much anyone in any industry to adapt and overcome. Click Play!RunwaySUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Let’s be clear: we almost never recommend lower prices.In fact, we spend lots of time on this podcast encouraging people to charge more. Often, raising prices is the best way to boost overall revenue. Often, but not always.Today, we explain how lower prices can be a powerful tool — when applied correctly. There is a way to sell to the clearance-bin crowd that won’t kill profit, or devalue your brand or products. …and it’s one of the best ways to grow your business.If we sound self-contradictory, give this episode a listen. You’ll see what we mean! And you’ll walk away with an excellent strategy for taking your business to the next level. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

So..are we ever going back to work? More importantly, should we?Not ‘work’ as in doing work, of course. We mean going back to the physical, brick & mortar office space that used to be a requirement for any business, big or small.The key phrase is “used to be.”Office space is expensive, especially for new and small businesses. For all that money, is it really worth it? Has COVID shown us that the office is a thing of the past? Today, we explore that question, and offer our own answers.Spoiler alert: our company has never had an office. Ever. Even before the pandemic, we hired remotely for literally every position, and we wouldn’t have it any other way.But on the flip side, our host Omar maintains an office space outside the home for himself. Find out why, explore your own options, and discover your own answer to the remote vs office question. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Well this is awkward.However, it’s not that uncommon. Hiring family members who just don’t work out is a thing that happens. In fact, it even happened to Omar! It’s Q&A Wednesday, and it also happened to one of our listeners. Six months into a new position, and one business founder’s brother just isn’t up to the task. How in the world do you let a close family member go without creating chaos at home?There is a way.It’s not easy, but it’s not supposed to be. The good news is that — if you handle the firing properly — both your business and your relationship can recover from it. Learn how to handle one of the most difficult situations a business (and a family) can face. Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

What’s the difference between a website that works, and one that doesn’t?When we say ‘works,’ we mean the site’s ability to reach an audience, generate leads and sales, and represent your brand.In our experience, most ineffective sites are suffering from one or more of 5 specific mistakes. These common no-no’s are like cinderblocks tied to the neck of your business. They’re holding you back, and you shouldn’t waste any time getting rid of them!Today, we share the absolute do-not’s.We’ll discuss how each of these screwups can ruin even the best-designed website — and hold back any business, no matter how great its potential. For the majority of us, the website is the business. So making sure it performs is critical.Learn what people do wrong, how to check for it, and how to fix it. Give your business website a health check, and make the changes necessary to unleash its true potential. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’re not all great with numbers. And we don’t all know the rules.If you’re thinking of starting a business, but not sure how to do the whole financial management thing, you’re not alone.That’s why we brought an expert in for advice. Joe DiChiara is a rare combination: successful independent entrepreneur and CPA (Certified Public Accountant). While most CPA’s work for someone else, Joe knows what it takes to build your own business — and how to make the finances part a little easier.The key is to get ahead of it.Today, Joe explains what you need to do now, so that you’re not overwhelmed by financial stuff later. With straightforward, practical instructions, Joe demystifies accounting, so you can get a firm handle on it — and prevent potential legal trouble down the road.Learn the basics of small business finance from a true expert. Click Play!Bedrock Business BuildersBedrock UniversitySUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get started marketing!Too many new entrepreneurs skip this part, or make it a low priority. While it’s natural to focus on developing your product, marketing is where you can get an incredible return on every cent you invest.In other words, marketing is just as important to building your business as the product is! By getting an early start on forging your company’s relationship with your target audience, you can get ahead of the game in meaningful ways, leading to steadier growth down the road.Today, we explain how to get your new business’s marketing ball rolling. Learn who to hire, when to hire them, and where to find them. With this simple advice, you can gain crucial momentum early on — even with a startup budget. SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Can you handle business?If you’re thinking about starting one, you might wonder what pitfalls or obstacles are the toughest. Entrepreneurship is challenging in a thousand different ways, but which way is…the scariest?Today, we narrow it down to one.There’s one thing about business that will hurt the most, take the most out of you, and make you ask yourself again and again if it’s really the life for you. It might surprise you to find out what is, but anyone who runs a business will probably agree.The great thing about a scary thing is that if you know what it is, you fear it less — and handle it better. Today, we discuss the single toughest thing about business, so you know what to expect. If you can handle this, you can handle anything. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Fact: entrepreneurship is not for everyone.The truth is that not everyone is right for independent business. Some people thrive more, contribute more, and live more happily by working a conventional job. But how do you know which category you fall into?It’s Q&A Wednesday, and we’ve got a listener with several business failures under their belt. The question of whether to just hang it up is looming. With such a poor track record…is it time to quit?After all, there’s a difference between persevering and spitting into the wind.Today, we explain how to know when it’s time to give up, and when it’s time to march onward. We’ll share a few failures of our own, including several that didn’t stop our intrepid host. Make the right call for you, so you never have to wonder “what if?” Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’ve all heard sayings about the value of pressure. Pressure drives us; it “creates diamonds,” or so we’re told. But is it true? Yes!Today, we explain why you should seek pressure — because otherwise, you won’t know what your team is really capable of. A simple fact of human nature is that we respond differently when things aren’t optional. The good news? There’s plenty of pressure to be found in entrepreneurship, and all of it can help you and your team reach your highest potential.In this episode, we’ll share how we apply this concept in our own business, and how you can, too. Getting comfortable with pressure will yield serious results, far more than if you avoid it. Understand the pressure principle, and you’ll thrive. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Get ready for a (seriously) life-changing book.The Ultimate Jim Rohn Library is a collection of lectures and lessons from the one and only — you guessed it — Jim Rohn. The O.G. of self-help and personal development, Rohn taught and inspired countless individuals to be their best selves.Now, the best of his life’s work is distilled into a power-packed audiobook.The Library is truly the ‘best of’ one of the best of entrepreneurs. Rohn’s straightforward advice rings as true as ever, as you’re guided through insights on business, life, and everything in between.Learn how to get the most from this book. Hear our top takeaways from this incredible compilation, and see why Rohn has earned his place as one of the most influential professional inspirers of all time.The Ultimate Jim Rohn Library by Jim RohnDiscover all our must-read book reviews at https://100mba.net/bookreviews.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Everybody quit. So where will they work now?The ‘Great Resignation’ is real — countless professionals left unfulfilling jobs in 2021. Startups and other small companies are uniquely positioned to benefit from this once-in-generation trend.Today, we explain how.With so much talent on the table, there’s never been a better time to recruit. You can lock in newly free, high-value pros from bigger — but more boring — companies. Best of all? Because the Great Resigners are choosing companies they really believe in (instead of taking any job they could get), motivation is at an all-time high.And don’t worry — you don’t have to have a big corporate budget to take advantage of this moment. In this episode, we’ll explain why money isn’t everything, and what you can do with a limited salary offer.The talent has been unleashed. Learn how to give it a home. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How ‘bout a sales boost to kick off the year?It’s the perfect time to warm up your list, nurture leads, and get a first-quarter sales bump! Today, we share 3 email campaigns that can do all that and more.No matter what you’re selling, these 3 campaign types can do the trick. All you have to do is tailor the specific content of each email to your product or service, send them out, and see what happens. Yes, it’s really that simple. And yes…we do this for our own business.You can send these emails out this week, or wait a bit if you’ve been sending holiday promotions. In this episode, we explain exactly what should go into them, why they work, and how to execute. Just follow the instructions, and the results might surprise you (in a good way). Get started — Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Public speaking is impossible to avoid.That’s just as true for introverts as everyone else. But if speaking doesn’t come naturally, you don’t have a disadvantage. You simply have an obstacle to overcome!Today, we show you how.It’s Q&A Wednesday, and we’ve got a side-hustling listener with a pretty significant problem: public speaking terrifies them. Whether it’s for the day job, potential investors, or potential conference gigs, not speaking publicly isn’t an option. But it’s…scary as heck.Fortunately, Omar used to have that problem, too.With some training and practice, our intrepid host went from cringe-worthy to binge-worthy. In this episode, he’ll share some of the most important tips he’s learned, where he learned them, and where you can learn even more. Get comfortable in front of your audience — Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

How you start the year is a huge factor in how you’ll end it.2022 is here, and you want to give your business the best chance of success. In our experience, that means hitting the first quarter hard. By putting some extra oomph in up front, you can generate the kind of momentum that’ll carry you to new heights of success. But what does that look like, exactly? Today, we offer a concrete plan for starting the year off right!By focusing on the most impactful goals — then breaking those goals down into an actionable plan — you can start moving the right needles early on, when it counts more than it ever will. Hear how we approach the first 3 months of every year, and how Q1 can be the key that unlocks Q’s 2 through 4. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The more you give, the more you’ll get.That’s the core philosophy of Akbar Sheikh, a wildly successful entrepreneur in the coaching space. He’s here to rewire your approach to success with a system that turns generosity into growth.Get your notepad ready! With Akbar’s 7-step system, you can take what’s uniquely valuable about you, use it to grow an audience, and turn that audience into a loyal customer base. You won’t accomplish this by “selling” so much as giving. You share, and keep sharing, until your audience has no doubts about you! This system covers the entire spectrum of a giving-based approach — from your overall mindset, to the practical steps necessary to get results. Strap in for an excellent lesson on the sheer power of giving. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You have something to teach. So how do you find your students?Online courses are the most valuable informational products you can sell. But if you’re not getting the traffic or conversions you need to fill the “classroom,” all the knowledge and experience in the world won’t make your business profitable.Today, we show you how to solve that problem.There’s a simple, straightforward way to get people signing up. It involves a little work to set up, but once you do, it’ll work over and over again. Forget the overhyped, complicated advice from all the marketing “gurus,” and stick with something basic that’s proven to work!In this episode, we lay out the system step by step. Plus, we share where you can find a free in-depth lesson on this method, complete with direct instruction. An online course is a great way to monetize what you know. But if you haven’t earned enough trust, the people who need your help have no reason to learn from you! Learn how to stand out and show people what you really have to offer — Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Paid ads can suck the money out of your business, quickly.But you should still use them.Today, we discuss how to walk the tightrope between spending too much and spending too little on paid marketing and advertising campaigns. The fact is, if you don’t know what you’re doing, you can quickly run out of money and get little in return. …but it’s just as dangerous to be too conservative with your budget.The trick isn’t how much you spend, it’s how much you get out of each dollar. And while organic efforts like content marketing can grow your business to a certain point, you’ll hit the ceiling eventually. We’re getting close to the time of year when paid marketing and ads get cheaper. Get a precise formula for how much of your budget is worth investing — Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When you niche down, how far down should you go?It’s Q&A Wednesday, and one of our listeners is about to open up a new e-commerce store. But first, we need to determine just how specific the target market is.There are advantages and disadvantages to extreme niching. But when it’s done right, you won’t paint yourself into a corner. You’ll create the momentum necessary to move beyond your niche — secure in the revenue you’ll keep getting from ultra-loyal existing customers.With several examples, we’ll explore how small businesses that start really small can accomplish big things.Learn how to ballpark the right niche size, how to earn their business, and how to parlay that success into cross-niching down the road. Click Play!Dan Martell/SaaS AcademyTo submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Is Content still King?Nothing works forever. So how’s the whole “content marketing” model holding up? In the earlier 2000’s, it was the beginning of a new era in marketing. Has anything changed? If so, what?It’s time to update our outlook.Today, we discuss what trends are changing content marketing — specifically, what types of content your business should focus on going into 2022. We’ve done the research, and hard data reveals a few undeniable factors that may reshape how we market in the future.The concept of trading quality content for consumer engagement is stable. But the specifics are evolving. Get a new grasp on content marketing, and start the new year with a fresh approach. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Welcome to Branding 101.A strong brand is the foundation of all your marketing efforts. But what is a “brand” anyway? Spoiler alert: it’s more than a logo.Today, marketing consultant Jason Byer explains the concept of branding, and why it’s much more powerful than you might think. The sheer psychological impact of a carefully cultivated brand can do more for your business than more direct efforts, like ads and sales pushes.Learn a few ways you can boost your branding. Earn some extra love from your market. Position your business to get better results from all your other campaigns. With specific tactics from a branding and marketing expert, you can give your business the edge. Click Play!CrowdspringHow to Create a Unique and Memorable Brand IdentityThe Definitive Guide to Successfully RebrandingSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Rule #1: your idea alone won’t get you funding.Whether you’re looking for an angel investor, a bank loan, or a favor from a wealthy uncle, getting outside funding takes strategy. In particular, the timing of your pitch matters almost as much as the content. When you ask for money is just as important as how. Certain things have to be in place before any reasonable investor can say yes — and a great product or service idea is only one of them.Today, we discuss how to make sure you’re already in the best position to secure funding, before you even try. By laying the groundwork first, you can set your pitch up to succeed. Time the ask right, and you’re much more likely to get the answer you want. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

…and you thought 2020 was weird.It’s the end of the year, and it’s time for our annual round-up of the most important lessons learned during this particular trip around the sun.2021 brought new challenges — some of them pretty tough. But every challenge comes with a prize: the wisdom you earn by navigating it. Sometimes you win, sometimes you don’t. But you can always take something away with you.Today, we share 5 things 2021 taught us. These aren’t just philosophical conclusions; they’re real-world, practical lessons you can apply to your own business. This is the true value of business experience, and it’s our privilege to share it with you.Hear what we learned, and take those lessons into 2022 and beyond. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s a classic founder’s problem: the belief that more work is always better. It’s not.It’s Q&A Wednesday, and we’ve got a listener who just can’t turn themselves off. In fact, they work so hard for so long that they often fall ill, and only get real rest when disease forces them to. It’s clear what the problem is, but how does one fix it?We have a few ways.Today, Omar shares several strategies he’s tried for getting out of ‘work mode.’ Some of them worked beautifully. Others, not so much. But all of them depend on facing a difficult truth for entrepreneurs — overwork doesn’t help your business. It hurts it.Hear our methods, and learn how to relax without the guilt. Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In business, connections are everything.That means — now that it’s possible again — making sure to get out to those conferences, meetups, and other networking events. But how do you make sure they’re worth it? You spend time and money getting to in-person events, and you need to leave with an ROI. It’s not about the cocktails or the hors d’oeuvres, but the new connections you walk away with.That’s why you need a strategy.Today, we share the tips, tricks, and tactics we use to ensure that every live event adds something to the business. How you spend those few precious hours can have a monumental impact on your company down the road. Learn how to maximize every opportunity, before you walk in the door. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You need your managers. But they need you too.That’s especially true for a first-timer. As your company grows, it’s perfectly natural to promote employees from within, rather than seek more experienced outsiders. But you have to make sure your newly-minted manager has the guidance they need to succeed.Today, an expert stops by to show us how.Mikil Taylor understands what it takes to make a manager, not just hire one. He’s here with 4 specific ways you can help an employee transition to a management role, and give them the best chance to do you proud.Put some work into giving new managers a leg up, and it’ll save you exponentially more work down the road. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You don’t just want the right skills. You want the right people. In fact, the latter might be even more important than the former. But how can you tell who someone really is from one or two interviews? How can you get an accurate sense of their reliability, creativity, and ability to problem-solve?Today, we explain how.In this episode, we share 3 types of questions you should ask in every interview. They’re the best predictors of performance, no matter what kind of job you’re hiring for. The consequences of a bad hire are significant. It took us years to grow from a team of 2 to a team of several dozen — and along the way, we learned how to ask what matters most. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Profit: it’s the only way a small business can survive.One of the reasons so many new businesses don’t survive is because new entrepreneurs don’t focus on it enough.Sounds weird, right? Making money should be an obvious priority. But it might be too obvious — so obvious we forget all about it. In this episode, we discuss how to keep your mind on the “P” side of your P&L (Profit and Loss) sheet.It’s incredible how much time you can spend on tasks that don’t help your bottom line, if you’re not careful.Today, we share how much of your day should be devoted to profit-first activities, and how to make sure you’re measuring up. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

When you have no reputation, why should anyone trust you?It’s the age-old challenge for a brand-new business. And it’s especially problematic for one of our listeners. It’s Q&A Wednesday, and this listener has a business that depends heavily on partnerships with other companies. Unfortunately, this fledgling business has no track record they can use to prove their value to potential partners. How can you gain experience when you need experience to gain it?If you’ve got a new business, this is the perfect episode for you. We’ll share a strategy anyone can use to get a few notches on their belt, and prove themselves to a wider and wider circle of potential partners (and customers).It takes a little work — and risk — up front, but it’s the best way to build a reputation you can keep building on. Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Ready to freshen up your company’s look? We just did.Today, we share the process of overhauling our marketing design, from the logo to our color scheme and everything else. Our software company went years without any significant tweaks to the branding. With big changes to the product on the horizon, we decided it was the right time to try on some fresh looks. In this episode, we detail what went into the entire effort — and more importantly, what it cost. We share the fun of it, the struggles, and all the ups and downs of finding a new way to represent the brand visually. Hear what we learned, and why a little refresh can be well worth the investment — if you do it right. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

We’ve all heard about the “buyer’s journey.” But what does it really look like?Every once in a while, you read something that sticks with you. That’s the case with Bob Moesta’s Demand-Side Sales 101, one of the most mind-opening books we’ve seen in a while.This book completely realigned our concept of selling. It’s a total reversal of the typical sales model, which has you blasting features and benefits in the customer’s direction. Instead, Demand-Side urges you to figure out where in the journey the customer is, so you can bring them closer. By understanding what happens before people make a decision to buy, you can get them there. Take the anxiety and discomfort out of sales. Packed with real-world examples, this book offers a completely new roadmap to sales success. Hear our thoughts and takeaways — Click Play!Demand-Side Sales 101 by Bob MoestaDiscover all our must-read book reviews at https://100mba.net/bookreviews.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You want to make money. But you can’t make time.If you’re not careful, the million little things that come with running a business can suck your hours, days, and weeks away — a few minutes at a time. We often feel comfortable getting sucked into day-to-day work that takes up time, but doesn’t necessarily grow the business. It’s time to change that.Today, we share a simple system for using every day to its fullest potential. By identifying what matters most and prioritizing it, you can get off the hamster wheel and spend your time more wisely.Ditch the feeling of overwhelm forever. Get bigger returns on the time you invest. Start zeroing in on what has the most impact on your most important goals. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Have you raised prices lately?We just did, and it was no easy decision. We revamped all plans and upped the prices for our webinar software, WebinarNinja. It was scary. It was anxious. It involved months of thorough research and consultation. …and we should’ve done it a long time ago.Today, we explain exactly what led to this major change, and why we’re convinced it was the right move. We’ll explore all the anxieties and apprehensions that come with a decision like this, and why we went ahead despite them.As your product and company grow, you have to make sure the return on all your investments stays high enough. Take a look at your prices, and ask yourself if they truly reflect the value you’re offering. If the answer is no, this is the episode for you. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

It’s the first, biggest question every aspiring entrepreneur asks: “Will this work?”No one has a crystal ball, and no one can say with 100% certainty whether a new business will succeed or fail. But there are ways to get an accurate sense of whether your idea has a reasonable chance of success. It’s Q&A Wednesday, and we’ve got a listener who spent months developing a new business idea. But they’re afraid to take that final step of committing real resources and pulling the trigger on a launch. What can this person do to move forward with confidence? How can they be sure that at the very least, it was worth a shot? Today, we explain how to test the waters.Learn how to launch with less risk and a greater degree of certainty. Today’s episode is a crash course in business idea validation — Click Play!To submit your questions, visit 100mba.net/q.SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Some say “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it.” But something doesn’t have to be broken to be improved — or left behind.Every time you’re scared to change something about your business, think of this episode! Too much risk aversion can have the same effect (or worse) as excess risk. Today, we explore how businesses fail when they don’t make bold changes. With specific examples, we demonstrate how inertia can kill your business just as easily as a bad move. While you can’t guarantee the results of taking a risk, you can guarantee what happens if you do nothing for too long.Rewire your thinking around risk, and learn how to take calculated risks when appropriate. Once you shake off the fear of change, your business will become more flexible, innovative, and sustainable. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

You have more control over your mind — and therefore your performance — than you think.If you’re not sure what’s holding you back from certain goals in business or life, it might just be your mind. And according to today’s guest teacher, there’s something you can do about it. David Ibarra is a business consultant, author, and speaker who specializes in mental training for peak performance. He teaches people how to manage their minds and influence their own subconsciouses. Rather than living at the mercy of subconscious impulses, you can understand and benefit from them. Today, David explains how. Get a handle on your brain, and you can get a handle on anything. Click Play!CalmSUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

The new year can bring more than one kind of hangover.So many businesses see a huge bump in sales around the holidays, only to suffer a serious dry spell right after. In some cases, the post-holiday drought can almost cancel out the gains that preceded it. The worst part? For many businesses, it doesn’t have to happen. Today, we offer a few ways to avoid that first-quarter slump.The beginning of the year offers unique opportunities to make serious strides. If you prepare in advance, you can pluck the fruit that most businesses miss. Hear our strategies, and choose the ones that will work best for you. Make your 2022 less of a rollercoaster, and more of an acceleration lane. Click Play!SUBSCRIBEYouTube | Apple Podcast | Spotify | Podcast Feed Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.