
The Friday Habit
224 episodes — Page 2 of 5
Ep 173The Hierarchy of Team Needs
In this conversation, Mark and Ben are joined by Scott Albrecjt to discuss the hierarchy of team needs. They explore the importance of trust, honest feedback, vision, accountability, and autonomy in building a healthy and successful team. Scott shares insights from his upcoming book, emphasizing the need to start at the foundation and work up to autonomy. The conversation highlights the role of transparency, communication, and continuous improvement in creating a thriving team. In this conversation, Scott Albrect discusses the hierarchy of team needs, which includes trust, honest feedback, vision, accountability, and autonomy. He emphasizes the importance of clear vision statements and the role of applied pressure in productivity. Scott also shares insights from his experience in ice fishing and highlights the teamwork and communication involved in the sport. The conversation concludes with action items for listeners, including being transparent when asked about their day and dedicating one full day each week to working on their business.Take Aways,•The foundation is trust, and he got honest feedback, vision, accountability, and autonomy•If your vision statement isn't clear, ask yourself why five times•Applied pressure is essential for productivity•If you have a clear vision, your team is empowered to take ownership and come up with incredible ideasTo FIND OUT MORE about Scott or BUY HIS BOOK go here:https://www.amazon.com/Hierarchy-Team-Needs-Scott-Albrecht/dp/B0CVG9K78QAlso you can LEARN MORE about AUTONOMY: https://youtu.be/r-nusRpPMlQ
Ep 172How to Make a Million Dollar Business Machine!!!
In this conversation, Mark and Ernesto discuss various topics including podcasting, rebranding, building systems, and baking challah bread. Ernesto shares his experience with podcasting and the benefits it has brought him in terms of learning how to speak, hold space, and listen. He also talks about his recent rebranding of his business to 'The Million Dollar Machine' and how it has resulted in increased revenue, clients, and collaborations. Ernesto emphasizes the importance of focusing on the fundamentals and using systems and processes to achieve success. He also mentions his love for baking challah bread and his plans to incorporate it into his business. Ernesto shares his experience of transitioning from working in the restaurant industry to starting his own business. He emphasizes the importance of taking action and not waiting for the perfect moment to start. Mark and Ernesto discuss the challenges and rewards of being entrepreneurs, the value of community and support, and the significance of setting achievable goals. They also touch on their personal backgrounds and the role of passion in their lives. Ernesto offers consulting services and encourages listeners to take action by visiting his website.Takeaways,•Podcasting can provide valuable learning experiences in speaking, holding space, and listening•Focusing on the fundamentals and using systems and processes is key to achieving success•Rebranding can lead to increased revenue, clients, and collaborations•Don't wait for the perfect moment to start your own business; take action and adjust along the way
Ep 171The Power of Writing for Entrepreneurs
Barbara Richter, founder of DIY Books and Ink Ghostwriting, shares her journey as an entrepreneur in the book writing industry. She discusses the services her companies provide, including tools and resources for individuals to craft their own stories and a premier ghostwriting firm serving a global audience. Barbara also talks about the challenges of starting a second company, DIY Books, and how she aims to democratize the ghostwriting process. She emphasizes the value of writing a book for entrepreneurs, as it increases networking opportunities, establishes authority, and provides a physical representation of expertise. In this conversation, Mark and Barbara discuss the fears and challenges of starting a ghostwriting business, the importance of finding your own voice as a writer, and the role of AI in the writing process. They also touch on the benefits of reading widely and the value of physical books. Barbara shares advice for aspiring writers, including joining a writing group and setting realistic goals. Listeners can connect with Barbara through her websites and social media channels.Takeaways,•AI can be a useful tool for writers, providing prompts and assistance, but it cannot replace the human experience and original thought.•Writing a book can establish credibility and authority for entrepreneurs, making them stand out in their industry.•To become a better writer, start writing regularly, join a writing group, and set realistic goals.
Ep 170Navigating the Hype and Realities of AI
Kevin Killen, CEO of Aavos, discusses the future of artificial intelligence (AI) and its potential impact on society. He emphasizes the importance of understanding human emotions and using AI to serve and benefit humanity. Killen also addresses the hype surrounding AI and the need to differentiate between useful applications and potential pitfalls. He shares his journey to becoming a CEO and offers advice on handling the pressures of entrepreneurship. Additionally, Killen highlights the mission and capabilities of Aavos, which aims to provide contextually responsive intelligence to a wide range of industries. Avos is focused on solving customer problems and providing contextually relevant intelligence. They prioritize understanding the customer's real needs and using their technology to solve the true problem. Avos uses sentiment analysis to analyze text and has developed an atomic network that can provide accurate answers while also expressing uncertainty. Unlike neural networks, Avos' network has the ability to say 'I don't know' and provide a confidence level for its answers. They also prioritize energy efficiency and can run their engine on a Raspberry Pi. Avos is committed to ethical and responsible AI and plans to have a diverse panel to discuss and influence the decision-making of their AI systems.Take Aways•Handling pressure is essential for success as an entrepreneur•AI is on the uptake and Responsibility is key•AI can be a useful tool and can implement good help in business.•To be successful you need to put in the hours.
Ep 169Balancing Control and Trust in Sales and Business
In this episode, Mark interviews John Alwinson, author of Relentless Sales, about his sales experience and how faith plays a role in his business. John shares his background in sales and entrepreneurship, including starting a footwear company in college. He emphasizes the importance of mentors and having a strong identity in sales. John also discusses setting boundaries and creating systems to avoid burnout. He shares his morning routine and the role of affirmations in his life. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the role of faith in overcoming challenges and staying motivated. In this conversation, Jon Alwinson shares insights on owning the mental game, documenting wins, and developing an elite sales process. He emphasizes the importance of balancing control and trust in sales and business, and highlights the role of faith in finding success. Jon also provides tips for improving sales skills and leading a successful team. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the inspiration behind Jon's book and his future goals. Takeaways•Developing an elite sales process is fundamental for consistent results, and includes focusing on form and consistency•Being a leader requires focusing on both team health and high performance, and hiring people who surpass you in certain areas•Setting boundaries and creating systems are important for work-life balance and avoiding burnout•Having a strong identity and faith can provide motivation and resilience in sales•Morning routines and affirmations can help set a positive mindset for the day. Owning the mental game involves remembering and documenting wins in order to build mental fortitude.
Ep 168The Power of Recurring Revenue
In this episode, Mark and Benjamin interview Steve Schramm, the founder and CEO of Pro Membership Sites. Steve shares his journey of transitioning from a day job to starting his own business and the importance of building recurring revenue. They discuss the benefits of subscription-based models and how to monetize knowledge and expertise. They also touch on the importance of execution and providing value to clients. The conversation explores various strategies for creating recurring revenue and building a successful business. In this part of the conversation, Ben and Steve discuss the sales process for selling recurring revenue services, objections they encounter, and the importance of storytelling in selling. They also talk about contract minimum engagement and optional redesigns, as well as the language and terminology used to sell the subscription service. They touch on the onboarding process, staying in touch with clients, and the value of proactive communication. They also discuss the challenges of scaling and managing a large number of clients. In this conversation, Steve Schramm shares his insights on communication and the use of Basecamp in his web design business. He emphasizes the importance of radical over communication and how Basecamp facilitates that. He also discusses his approach to hiring contractors and creating a remote team. The conversation touches on pricing strategies, including value-based subscription and add-ons. The key takeaways include the power of storytelling in sales pitches, the significance of communication in web design, and the importance of measuring the gain rather than the gap in personal and business growth.• Measure the gain in your life and business, rather than focusing on the gap from where you want to be• Communication is a crucial aspect of web design and can be a differentiator in any industry• Efficiency and solid processes are essential for scaling and maximizing profitability. Selling a recurring revenue service is often easier than selling a one-time sale, and objections are usually minimal• Storytelling is a powerful tool in selling recurring revenue services, as it helps to address objections and make the sales message more relatable• Proactive communication, such as quarterly strategy calls, helps to maintain a strong relationship with clients and identify opportunities for upselling
Ep 167The 6 Levers Framework: A New Approach to Organizational Success with Shaun Lee
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Friday Habit! Today, we have Shaun Lee joining us to dive into an important topic many organizations struggle with. Ever wondered why pinpointing individual employees or leaders often misses the mark when solving organizational issues? We’ll explore how this common misconception overlooks deeper, systemic problems.Shaun will share insights on systems thinking, a holistic approach that looks at how different parts of an organization interact. By focusing on the environment in which individuals operate, we can better understand their behaviors, attitudes, and performances.We’ll also discuss the importance of collective ownership in driving systemic change. Shaun will introduce us to the Six Levers framework, a powerful tool for intentional and systematic organizational change. This framework helps organizations move towards healthier, more productive, and fulfilling ways of working.Changing an organization isn't a straight path; it’s a journey that requires leaders to critically assess and prioritize the areas that need the most attention. This customized approach ensures effective and lasting interventions. Get ready to revolutionize the way you view organizational dynamics and productivity!Chapters00:14:11: Empowering leaders and building strong teams00:16:58: Explanation of 'Six Levers' framework00:19:16: Importance of teams in building systems00:23:43: Meeting needs of different teams00:29:12: Setting and adjusting priorities as a team00:34:42: Importance of self-awareness in leaders00:42:21: Creating a culture of feedback Episode LinksLeedFeeder https://www.leadfeeder.com/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=body&utm_campaign=brandvivahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/shaun-lee-1122a131/https://www.6levers.co/Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 166How to Unmanage Your Team with Jack Skeels
Join us as Jack Skeels dives into the fascinating world of 'unmanagement' and redefines the role of managers in today's organizations. In this engaging conversation, Jack challenges traditional notions of control and instead, champions authority and empowerment. He introduces us to the four pivotal moments every manager should master: why, what, go, and grow. By clearly communicating the 'why' behind tasks, Jack argues that managers can ignite purpose and improve decision-making across their teams. He also underscores the power of giving teams control over their work, which can lead to a more collaborative and fruitful work environment.Throughout our discussion, Jack shares valuable insights on leveraging individual strengths and fostering autonomy among employees. He stresses the importance of self-assessment for managers and the benefits of soliciting team feedback through surveys to enhance productivity. Wrapping up, Jack advises against micromanagement, advocating instead for a workplace culture that's both positive and empowering. Tune in to discover how you can transform your management style and create a thriving work environment.TakeawaysManagers should focus on authority and empowerment rather than control.Communicating the why behind tasks and projects provides purpose and enables better decision-making.Empowering teams and giving them control over their work leads to a more collaborative and productive work environment.The four key managerial moments are why, what, go, and grow. Understand individual strengths and provide autonomy to employeesContinuously assess yourself as a manager and seek feedback from your teamUse surveys to gauge how well you are helping your employees be productiveAvoid micromanaging and focus on creating a positive work cultureChapters00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage07:56 The Manager Tax and the Need for Effective Management24:06 Creating a Productive Work Environment30:48 Dedicated Time for Improvement and Problem-Solving39:55 Assessing Yourself as a Manager49:37 Final Thoughts: Don't Be That Guy Episode Linkshttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jackaskeelshttps://jackskeels.medium.com/https://agencyagile.com/jackskeels/Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 165The Power of Systems and Processes in Business with Sarah Noel Block
Alright, buckle up for this episode! Mark and Ben are joined by the one and only Sarah Noel Block, the brain behind Tiny Marketing. They dive into the nitty-gritty of why having solid systems and processes in your business is like adding rocket fuel to your success rocket. Sarah spills the beans on her Tiny Marketing Framework, breaking it down into streamlining, systematizing, automating, and outsourcing - the holy grail for growth.But wait, there's more! They dish out on the perks of outsourcing tasks that either drain your energy or aren't your forte. Ever thought about how telling a strategic story could up your lawn care game? They go there too!Sarah lays it all out, focusing on the Tiny Marketing Framework: streamline, systematize, automate, and outsource. She hammers home the importance of singling out one customer avatar, one core channel, one core content, one lead generator, and one lead offer to craft a killer marketing strategy. Oh, and she's all about leveraging other people's audiences to get your name out there.The bottom line? Audit your offers, figure out which ones are bringing home the bacon, and give 'em the spotlight they deserve. Trust us, you won't want to miss this marketing masterclass!TakeawaysCreating systems and processes in business can lead to growth and success.The Tiny Marketing Framework includes streamlining, systematizing, automating, and outsourcing.Outsourcing tasks that are not a business owner's strengths or that take up too much time can save time and money.The strategic story is an all-in-one messaging and content marketing strategy that can be applied to different businesses. Implement the tiny marketing framework: streamline, systematize, automate, and outsource your marketing efforts.Choose one customer avatar, one core channel, one core content, one lead generator, and one lead offer to create a focused and strategic marketing plan.Borrow other people's audiences to build reputation and reach new customers.Audit your offers to determine the most profitable ones to market and pay attention to.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Friday Habit09:21 COVID as a Catalyst for Change15:18 The Benefits of Outsourcing32:58 Borrowing AudiencesEpisode Linkshttps://www.sarahnoelblock.com/Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 164Ego Battles and Conformity Struggles: The Leadership Journey with Kyle McDowell
Kyle McDowell takes us on his journey from a cramped cubicle to leading a massive team, focusing on a shift towards 'we'-oriented leadership. He really hammers home the idea that making a difference and nurturing genuine connections matter more than just climbing the success ladder. McDowell dives into the struggles leaders often face, like battling with ego and feeling the pressure to fit a certain mold. He's big on owning up to mistakes and having each other's backs. McDowell draws inspiration from leaders like Harry Kramer, who walk the talk and own their actions. In his chat with Mark, they get into the nitty-gritty of responsibility, problem-solving, and leading by example. They break down the 10 principles from Kyle's book, 'Begin with We,' stressing the importance of doing right, walking the talk, and sticking to your word. Their talk drives home the point that leaders need to be accountable, push each other, and tackle challenges head-on to foster a top-notch culture.TakeawaysFocus on making an impact and prioritize relationships over superficial success.Leaders often struggle with ego and the pressure to conform to certain behaviors.Accepting responsibility for mistakes and supporting each other are crucial for effective leadership.Leaders like Harry Kramer, who demonstrate integrity and take ownership of their actions, serve as role models. Leaders should focus on finding solutions rather than making excuses.Taking responsibility for mistakes and picking each other up is crucial for a positive work environment.The 10 principles for building a culture of excellence include doing the right thing, leading by example, saying what you'll do and doing it, taking action, owning mistakes, picking each other up, measuring outcomes, challenging each other, embracing challenges, and obsessing over details.Self-reflection is key to becoming an effective leader.Leaders should surround themselves with people who complement their skills and be humble about their own strengths.Engaging with followers and helping others on their leadership journey is important for creating a movement.Main Topics00:00 Introduction and Background05:56 The Importance of Making an Impact and Prioritizing Relationships10:01 Challenges Faced by Leaders: Ego and Conformity15:07 Accepting Responsibility and Supporting Each Other: Key Leadership Traits25:05 Creating Solutions and Moving Forward29:42 Saying What You'll Do and Doing It33:16 Measuring Outcomes and Focusing on Results36:41 Obsessing Over Details and Setting a High Standard44:12 Self-Reflection and Becoming an Effective Leader Episode Linkshttps://kylemcdowellinc.com/“Begin with WE” Bookhttps://www.instagram.com/kylemcdowellinc/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kylemcdowellinc/Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 163Client Retention Revolution: Elevating Customer Experience with Richard Weylman
Welcome to another episode of The Friday Habit! Today, Mark and Ben chat with Richard Weylman, the mastermind behind '100 Proven Ways to Acquire and Keep Clients for Life.'Richard's journey from selling cookware door-to-door to becoming a guru in speaking and customer experience is truly inspiring. He emphasizes the power of connecting with people and nurturing relationships in business.We delve into the 'great reevaluation' phenomenon, where folks are seeking businesses that exude thoughtfulness and empathy. Richard shares practical tips on communicating from the consumer's perspective and creating emotionally engaging experiences.We also touch on the importance of crafting a vision for customer experience and personalization. Plus, we learn from industry giants like Chick-fil-A and Apple about the magic of exceptional customer service.In a nutshell: Treat customers as individuals, stay connected, and be top of mind when opportunities arise. TakeawaysBuilding relationships and connecting with people is crucial in any business.The 'great reevaluation' is happening in the business world, where people are reevaluating their choices and looking for providers who demonstrate thoughtfulness, kindness, caring, and empathy.Communicating from the consumer's perspective and creating an elevated experience fosters emotional engagement with clients.Demonstrating empathy and asking questions in a thoughtful and kind manner can lead to better communication and stronger relationships with clients. Create a vision for the customer experience and focus on the customerKnow the preferred name of customers and use itFocus on the outcomes customers wantAsk why customers left previous providersSend thank-you notes to customers who say noTreat customers as people and stay in touch with themMain Topics00:00 Introduction and Background of Richard Wildman15:46 The 'Great Reevaluation' in the Business World31:33 The Power of Thoughtfulness and Kindness37:35 Elevated Experience and Emotional Engagement45:28 Focusing on Outcomes and Asking Why54:59 Building Relationships and Treating Customers as People Episode Linkshttps://richardweylman.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-weylman-8a087026/https://twitter.com/richard_weylmanhttps://www.youtube.com/@RichardWeylmanGo to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 162Megan Gluth Bohan's Journey from Law to Leadership
The Friday Habit: Megan Gluth Bohan's Journey from Law to LeadershipThis episode of The Friday Habit features Megan Gluth Bohan, an award-winning entrepreneur, CEO & Owner of Catalynt Solutions, Inc. (formerly TRInternational, Inc.) and owner of ChemBlend of America. Megan shares her inspiring journey from growing up in a small town with a single mother to becoming a successful multinational corporation CEO. She discusses the challenges and pivotal moments in her life, including battling alcohol addiction, being kicked out of college, and eventually finding her path through law school. Megan also talks about her transition from practicing law to acquiring and leading a chemical and raw materials business. The episode emphasizes the importance of empathetic leadership, the power of saying 'yes' to opportunities, and the belief that it's never too late to change your life’s direction. Megan's story is a testament to resilience, the pursuit of success against all odds, and the impact of mentorship and opportunity.00:00 Welcome to The Friday Habit: Elevating Small Businesses01:13 Introducing Megan Gluth Bohan: From Small Town to CEO01:42 The Journey of a Multinational CEO: Megan's Story04:39 Overcoming Obstacles: Megan's Path to Success06:53 The Power of Saying Yes: Navigating Life's Opportunities09:02 From Law School to Leadership: Megan's Transformation16:44 Embracing the Outdoors: A New Chapter on the West Coast17:30 A Bold Move West and the Start of a New Chapter18:17 The Leap from Law to Entrepreneurship21:01 Becoming Part of a Succession Plan22:44 The Transition to Ownership and Leadership29:11 Navigating Business Ownership During a Pandemic30:22 Empathetic Leadership and Building a Community33:03 Reflecting on the Journey and Key Takeaways
Ep 161AI vs. Human Creativity: Finding the Right Balance with Jeremy Ryan Slate part 2
Welcome back to The Friday Habit! In part two of our interview with Jeremy Ryan Slate, we continue our exploration of how embracing the concept of "good enough" can lead to greater success for businesses and teams.Jeremy expands on the idea that the pursuit of perfection in every detail can actually hinder growth and effective delegation. Instead, he suggests focusing on measurable outcomes based on customer satisfaction. By shifting the focus from perfection to achieving results that satisfy the customer, businesses can develop a more sustainable growth strategy.We also dive into the importance of fostering trust within teams. Jeremy emphasizes the significance of respecting diverse styles and approaches among team members. By creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to contribute their unique skills and ideas, leaders can streamline operations and free up time to focus on strategic expansion.In summary, our conversation with Jeremy highlights the value of finding a balance between excellence and efficiency, as well as building trust within teams to drive success.Main Topics00:01:04: Importance of delegation and trust in growth00:03:37: The role of AI tools in podcasting00:05:25: Evolution with technology, importance of starting with video00:10:00: Being authentic and honest in content00:13:19: The potential consequences of AI development00:16:27: Potential new career paths due to AI development00:17:09: Role of technology in problem-solving00:22:16: Copyright infringement and AI Episode Linkshttps://commandyourbrand.com/https://jeremyryanslate.com/https://www.facebook.com/jeremy.slatehttps://twitter.com/jeremyryanslatehttps://www.instagram.com/jeremyryanslate/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPfHfMJSSp4rAqQjiRH1OKgGo to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 160Navigating Entrepreneurship: Balancing Business and Lifestyle with Jeremy Ryan Slate part 1
Welcome to another episode of The Friday Habit! Today, we've got the one and only Jeremy Ryan Slate, CEO of Command Your Brand, joining us for an enlightening chat.Jeremy is here to unravel the joys and challenges of the entrepreneurial journey, shedding light on how the Friday Habit philosophy can drive both business growth and personal satisfaction. He's dishing out some invaluable insights on strategic planning and smart investments – essential ingredients for any successful venture.But Jeremy's wisdom extends beyond just business. He's also delving into the profound connection between the human soul and nature, and why integrating natural elements into our personal spaces can work wonders for creativity and well-being.And if that wasn't enough, Jeremy's sharing some fantastic tips on sprucing up our living and working environments, because let's face it, a well-crafted workspace can make all the difference. So, sit back, relax, and let's dive into this enriching conversation with Jeremy Ryan Slate!Main Topics00:06:29: Systemizing and reducing waste within a business00:13:04: Company size and employment structure00:13:57: Switch to remote work00:15:03: Monitoring of employee productivity00:17:10: The Value of Big Company Mindset00:18:20: Transitioning from Phase One to Phase Two in Business00:19:34: The Importance of Standardization for Growth00:21:13: Shifting Viewpoint: From Fixer to Problem Solver Episode Linkshttps://commandyourbrand.com/https://jeremyryanslate.com/https://www.facebook.com/jeremy.slatehttps://twitter.com/jeremyryanslatehttps://www.instagram.com/jeremyryanslate/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCPfHfMJSSp4rAqQjiRH1OKgGo to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 159Engaging the Gig Economy with FreeUp and Brittany Brewer
Episode Summary:Join Mark Labriola II in this insightful episode of The Friday Habit as he dives into the freelance revolution with Brittany Brewer, a senior account executive at FreeUp. Discover Brittany's journey from renovating a school bus for a digital nomad lifestyle to her pivotal role in the freelancing world. This episode covers the impact of COVID-19 on freelancing, the unique approach of FreeUp, and the benefits of leveraging freelancers for business growth.Key Takeaways:Brittany's transition to the freelancing industry and her significant contributions to FreeUp.How FreeUp distinguishes itself from other freelancing platforms by focusing on quality and a rigorous vetting process.Practical advice for small business owners on utilizing freelancers to scale their operations efficiently.Special Offer:Brittany offers The Friday Habit listeners an exclusive $50 credit to get started with FreeUp. Visit freeuppod.com to claim your credit and find the perfect freelancer for your needs.Episode Highlights:The evolution of freelancing and how it has become a viable career path post-COVID-19.The advantages of using FreeUp to connect with top-tier freelancers for your business needs.Brittany's personal journey from a traditional job to embracing a digital nomad lifestyle.Strategies for effectively integrating freelancers into your business model.Connect with Us:For more episodes and resources to help grow your business, visit thefridayhabit.com. Have questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected] to Action:Don't let fear hold you back from exploring the potential of freelancing for your business. Reach out to FreeUp to find out how they can support your growth with their curated network of freelancers.
Ep 158Maximize Your Margins: ROI-Focused Sales Tactics with Ian Campbell
Episode Summary:In this episode of The Friday Habit, hosts Mark Labriola and Benjamin Manley sit down with Ian Campbell, CEO of Nucleus Research. Ian shares his extensive experience and insights into the world of investigative research and how businesses can leverage the concept of Return on Investment (ROI) to enhance sales, improve services, and ultimately win more deals. Whether you're a small business owner, a freelancer, or a creative, this conversation is packed with valuable advice on how to prove ROI and focus your efforts to grow your business.Key Takeaways:The Importance of ROI: Ian emphasizes the significance of demonstrating the value of investments to potential clients. He discusses how understanding and presenting ROI can be a game-changer in sales and business development.Three Ways to Deliver Value: Ian breaks down the three core ways businesses can deliver value to their clients: increasing productivity, decreasing costs, or boosting profitability. He explains how aligning your services with these value propositions can significantly impact your sales approach.The Power of Focusing on Niches: The conversation highlights the importance of specialization and focusing on what you do best. Ian shares insights into how narrowing down services to meet specific market needs can lead to business growth and success.Actionable Strategies for Value Selling: Ian provides listeners with practical strategies to implement value selling in their business practices. From identifying customer needs to developing a value proposition and quantifying benefits, the discussion is a roadmap for anyone looking to enhance their sales approach.Leveraging Customer Success Stories: The importance of using customer success stories and references is discussed. Ian advises on how to effectively use testimonials to demonstrate value and credibility to potential clients.Action Item:Identify the top two or three ways your business delivers value to its clients. Focus on these aspects in your marketing and sales efforts to communicate the tangible benefits of working with your company.Resources Mentioned:The Value Sale (Book by Ian Campbell)Nucleus ResearchConnect with Ian Campbell:Website: Nucleus ResearchEmail: [email protected] The Friday Habit:The Friday Habit is the go-to podcast for business owners, freelancers, and creatives who want to transform their passion into a successful enterprise. Join Mark and Ben every week as they dive into the strategies and insights that can help you make every day feel like Friday.Subscribe & Review:Don’t miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The Friday Habit on Apple Podcasts and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like you.
Ep 157Strategic Real Estate Investments for Beginners with Dan Templin part 2
Wondering how businesses can make the most of their resources to boost earnings? Curious about the role of financial and tax management in the real estate sector? Well, you're in luck because we've got the answers for you in the latest episode of The Friday Habit. This is part two of our conversation with Dan Templin, where we're going to delve into the fascinating world of property utilization and explore how savvy entrepreneurs can use cutting-edge software solutions to offer flexibility and variety in their rental setups.But that's not all – we're also going to dive deep into financial strategies. We'll take a closer look at LLC structuring, cost segregation studies, and 1031 exchanges and how they can lead to some serious savings. And hey, who doesn't love credit card rewards, right? We're going to show you how entrepreneurs can really cash in on those rewards if they master the art.And as we wrap things up, we'll share some final thoughts on the importance of having a well-rounded perspective when it comes to managing your business and property. So don't miss out – tune in for all this and more in part two of our conversation with Dan Templin!Main TopicsMarriage and EntrepreneurshipStrategies on Starting Business with Limited ResourcesNetworking and Communication in BusinessBusiness Structure and Tax StrategiesThe importance of leveraging others' knowledge and expertise Episode Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/thebusinessman_dan/https://www.thebusinessmandan.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvlEOWw5M-erkL2-7wOlPAGo to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 156Strategic Real Estate Investments for Beginners with Dan Templin part 1
Join us on an exciting journey into the world of real estate investment with your hosts, Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley. In this episode, we're here to not only help you grow your wealth but also lay the foundation for a lasting legacy. We're joined by a special guest, Dan Templin, a renowned business expert, to provide even more valuable insights.We'll uncover the secrets of the property market and draw on the wisdom of seasoned investors, including Dan Templin, to prepare you for the ups and downs of real estate investment. Discover how tangible assets can open up new opportunities and why this sector is a key to financial success for entrepreneurs and creatives alike.Our mantra for this episode is to "start small but think big." We'll guide you through the practical steps of entering the world of real estate, beginning with the importance of securing a steady income and building a strong financial foundation. We'll also highlight the potential pitfalls of hasty investments without proper planning.Get ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of buying undervalued properties and turning them into profitable investments. With mentorship from experienced realtors, Mark, Benjamin, and our special guest, Dan Templin, will provide insights tailored to your financial situation and the current market conditions.So, whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, join us for this enlightening journey into the world of real estate investment. It's time to make your money work for you and create a legacy that will endure for generations to come.Main Topics00:14:55: Owning multiple businesses00:18:03: Expansion into real estate and property ownership00:20:31: Introduction of new property investment system, Plex Hacking.00:22:47: Importance of a well balanced portfolio00:23:24: Lessons from franchising a laundromat Episode Linkshttps://www.instagram.com/thebusinessman_dan/https://www.thebusinessmandan.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvlEOWw5M-erkL2-7wOlPA Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 155Project Management: The Key to Sustaining Business Growth - Clint Padgett Part 2
Welcome back to part two of our 2-part episode of The Friday Habit! In this installment, we continue our exploration of project management with our special guest, Clint Padgett.We're picking up right where we left off, delving into the world of informed scheduling decisions, strategic resource utilization, and the critical role of engagement and transparency in building a sense of ownership among team members.Plus, we'll dive deeper into the exciting intersection of technology and project planning, discussing how automation and AI are transforming the field while emphasizing the enduring importance of human collaboration, commitment, accountability, and pride in the work.If you missed part one, be sure to catch up, and if you're ready for more insights into project success, you're in the right place! Main Topics02:05: The importance of people management in project success05:24: The silo effect in companies18:03: The necessity of in-person meetings for connection20:33: Managing by Commitment28:22: The future of project management Episode Linkshttps://clintonmpadgett.com/https://projectsuccess.com/ Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 154Project Management: The Key to Sustaining Business Growth - Clint Padgett Part 1
Welcome to another exciting episode of The Friday Habit! Today, we've got a fantastic guest lined up for you. We're catching up with Clint Padgett, a seasoned pro in the world of project management. Clint's not just any project management guru; he's also the president of Project Success, Inc. We'll be diving into some intriguing topics today, focusing on sustainable business growth and how project management plays a crucial role in achieving those long-term success goals.Now, let's start by hearing Clint's insights on what he's learned from his father about the core essence of project management. Plus, we'll chat about the significance of operational management and how it all ties into the ambitious pursuit of growing your business.But that's not all! Clint has an inspiring journey that we'll be exploring today. He's gone from the Navy to higher education and even worked at The Coca-Cola Company. It's a story that highlights how a strong work ethic and unwavering dedication can take you places. From his time in the military to overcoming some seriously tough working conditions and pursuing higher education, Clint embodies the idea that the harder you work, the luckier you become. So, stay tuned for some incredible insights and stories from Clint Padgett!Main Topics00:04:15: Entrepreneurship in a small town00:08:57: Clint's experience in the Navy and the shipyard00:11:03: Working at Coca Cola00:14:00: The balance of hard work and perseverance in success00:17:26: The beginning of the journey towards the Olympics00:20:44: Working cross-functional projects00:22:54: Journey from being an employee to the company's CEO Episode Linkshttps://clintonmpadgett.com/https://projectsuccess.com/ Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 153From Career Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success: Interview with Ron Simmons Part 2
In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Ron Simmons, a seasoned entrepreneur and former politician. Ron's journey is filled with valuable insights and wisdom that every small business owner and aspiring entrepreneur should hear. Join us as we dive into a conversation about lifelong learning, the secrets to maintaining a successful long-term partnership, taking bold and uncomfortable steps, recognizing opportunities, and finding the perfect balance between faith and entrepreneurship. Ron introduces a unique metaphor—the "red wagon"—to help us understand the different roles and responsibilities in business.Key Highlights:1. Ron emphasizes the significance of focusing on execution and not letting worries about things beyond your control hold you back. It's all about taking action and making things happen.2. Ron shares the importance of finding mentors in various aspects of life and business. These mentors can provide valuable guidance and insights that can make a world of difference in your journey.3. Personal growth and reflection are key components of success. Ron encourages us to invest in our personal development and take the time to think and reflect on our goals and progress.4. Ron highlights the value of authenticity and transparency in both personal and professional life. Being genuine and honest in your interactions can build trust and credibility.5. Challenges are a part of every entrepreneurial journey. Ron's advice? Stay laser-focused on your goals, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain a positive attitude even in the face of adversity.
Ep 152From Career Beginnings to Entrepreneurial Success: Interview with Ron Simmons Part 1
Welcome to The Friday Habit with your hosts Mark and Ben! In this episode, we have a special guest joining us, Ron Simmons, a seasoned politician who served three terms in the Texas House of Representatives. During his time in the House, Ron was a member of several crucial committees, including Appropriations, Transportation, Elections, Homeland Security, and Business & Industry.Join us as Mark, Ben, and Ron engage in an enlightening discourse about harnessing opportunities and maintaining a targeted focus in entrepreneurship. They'll illustrate how seemingly minor engagements can open new windows of opportunity and advise on the importance of concentrated efforts within one's chosen niche.Practical steps on optimizing focus and harnessing opportunities will be discussed comprehensively for the benefit of aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, our hosts and guest will bring forward the necessity of adapting businesses to client needs and market shifts, emphasizing the balance between innovation and core values.Mark, Ben, and Ron will also encourage entrepreneurs to cultivate a culture of continuous innovation, embracing technological advances and building a scalable business infrastructure. Tune into this episode for fresh perspectives on entrepreneurship and strategies for success in the face of evolving markets.
Ep 151Building a Business with Excellence and Love: The Andre Dantzler Journey
In this episode, Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley interview Andre Dantzler from SociallyU. Andre shares his journey from working in the corporate world to starting his own business and the importance of systems and mindset in building a successful business. He emphasizes the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and the importance of finding alignment in your work. Andre also discusses the balance between work and family life and the process of discovering your identity and purpose. He shares his experience of hiring and growing his team, emphasizing the value of caring for employees and creating a positive customer experience. Andre also highlights the significance of excellence and love in his approach to business. He explains how sharing knowledge and secrets has been revolutionary for his company. Overall, Andre's journey showcases the power of building a team, fostering ownership, and prioritizing the well-being of both employees and customers.TakeawaysEntrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart and requires resilience and optimism.Finding alignment in your work and saying no to opportunities that don't align with your values and strengths is crucial.Balancing work and family life is essential, and it's important to prioritize and be present in each area.Discovering your identity and purpose takes time and self-reflection.Growth in business often requires hiring and surrounding yourself with the right people. Building a successful business requires a systems mindset and the ability to ask the right questions.Hiring employees instead of relying solely on contractors can lead to a more cohesive and committed team.Excellence and love are key guiding principles for creating a positive customer experience.Sharing knowledge and secrets can lead to growth and attract clients who appreciate transparency and value.Chapters00:00 Introduction to The Friday Habit01:01 Guest Introduction: Andre Dantzler from SociallyU02:27 Andre's Origin Story and Business Journey08:54 Leaving the Corporate World and Starting His Own Business13:15 The Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship19:19 Balancing Work and Family Life25:32 Finding Alignment and Saying No to Opportunities29:34 Discovering Identity and Purpose35:33 Growth and Hiring in the Business35:46 The Importance of Systems and Mindset36:46 Challenges and Growth in the Studio37:33 The Impact of Growth on Systems39:14 Hiring and Financial Considerations40:28 The Difference Between Contractors and Employees41:48 Creating a Team and Fostering Ownership44:31 Building a Sustainable Business45:53 The Importance of Excellence and Love47:48 Creating a Positive Customer Experience50:42 The Role of Hospitality in Shaping Culture53:12 The Power of Caring for People56:05 The Value of Sharing Secrets and Knowledge01:01:42 Connecting with Socially InclinedGo to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 150Spicy Conversations at Work with Patrick Thean - Part 2
Welcome to another episode of The Friday Habit, where your hosts Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley, along with guest Patrick Thean, guide you to strike the right balance between strategy and execution. Tune in as they elaborate on "# CEOs and the Crucial Role of Execution in Business Success." Uncover the deeper layers of effective execution, its pivotal role in transforming grand strategies into tangible results, and the importance of embedding it into your business operations. Learn to foster a rhythm that meshes brilliantly with your execution-focused mindset and how to cultivate it in your organization's day-to-day operations.Further, delve into a discussion about stepping up from an enterprising entrepreneur to a strategic CEO. Take away invaluable insights from this enlightening conversation around the common struggles, epiphanies, and identity realization that ensues during this evolution. Whether you are on the path of selling your first enterprise, poised to usher into a new venture, or finding your niche, this episode is sure to provide a trove of wisdom to aid your journey.Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 149Spicy Conversations at Work with Patrick Thean - Part 1
Though Patrick Thean’s list of accomplishments as a CEO, international speaker and best selling author is impressive, his humble attitude is what really draws clients to him. Growing up in Singapore, Patrick experimented early on with small business ideas, selling tape recordings of the World Cup to his friends in grade school. He later came to the United States and graduated from Cornell with an engineering degree, met his wife and founded his first company. Patrick’s business philosophy is both strategic and personal. He doesn’t take himself too seriously and is more interested in executing what he’s promised to his clients. Now he passionately and purposefully coaches business owners to identify a problem that needs solving as the foundation for a successful business plan. His three keys to success are focus, alignment within the team, and accountability to commitments. By consistently reflecting on what can be learned in each interaction with someone, Patrick continues to build a legacy focused on “people to people” relationships.Main TopicsPatrick’s early entrepreneurial spark (01:30)Solve a problem with your business plan (05:25)3 keys to success (08:47)Patrick’s first company (11:00)Repeat the sales pitch (15:15)Learning from every interaction (18:00)Main concepts of his book Rhythm (20:40) Episode Linkshttps://www.patrickthean.com/new-home Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 148Storytelling for Purpose-Driven Marketing with Mark Carpenter pt. 2
In part two of the discussion with storyteller, author, and keynote speaker Mark Carpenter, he shares some of the strategies he employs in telling great stories people will remember. Before utilizing storytelling to teach, lead, sell or inspire, it is important to know the purpose behind telling that story. When the storyteller is clear on why they are sharing a story, they can choose important details to share or discard, and the pacing falls into place. They can also begin to look for experiences to turn into stories that would serve their purpose. Mark encourages authenticity in delivering a story. Citing recent groundbreaking research, the neuroscience behind the power of storytelling is compelling. Brain wave activity increases during a story versus simply receiving information. When listeners engage with a story, they access their personal memories in order to find relatability, which solidifies the likelihood they will remember the message. Stories also trigger the brain to release oxytocin, which is the chemical that leads to trust and connectivity. When a storyteller shares authentically with honorable intention, people respond with deeper levels of engagement and buy-in. Not to be used in a manipulative way, the power of storytelling as a leadership skill is growing at the corporate level thanks to pioneers like Mark. Humans have communicated through storytelling for millenia; it only makes sense that forward-thinking leaders would apply the approach to professional development. Main TopicsUsing storytelling in sales (01:20)Common roadblocks in developing stories (04:25)Pacing in storytelling (06:50)Impact of stories on the brain (10:00)Increasing relatability chemicals in the brain (15:25)Mark’s current consulting projects (18:30)Workshops for use storytelling as a leadership skill (21:30) Episode Linkshttps://master-storytelling.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 147Storytelling for Purpose-Driven Marketing with Mark Carpenter pt. 1
Teaching and storytelling is in Mark Carpenter’s DNA. With decades of experience in corporate communications, marketing, writing, and consulting, Mark now helps people master the art of storytelling to communicate information with purpose. In his work with clients, he often hears objections to storytelling because people don’t believe they have any stories worth telling. As outlined in his book and through his insightful training techniques, Mark guides leaders in crafting extraordinarily powerful stories from seemingly ordinary experiences. One of the most important factors in achieving masterful storytelling is clearly defining the purpose of the story. Any experience that evokes an emotional reaction holds within it a lesson. Inspired by Joseph Campbell’s archetypal Hero’s Journey, Mark breaks down story development into three sections: the current state, the conflict, and the change. When leaders use storytelling to relay information, they are transferring the wisdom of experience so that the listener doesn’t need to go through it themselves. As with any professional development skill, storytelling is like a muscle that builds strength through practice and repetition. Most people learn best through stories as they are more engaged and likely to retain the information. Main TopicsTeaching is in Mark’s DNA (04:10)Emotional reactions lead to great stories (07:00)Storytelling as a leadership skill (10:00)Developing storytelling through practice (10:46)How Mark strengthened his storytelling skills (14:05)Storytelling vs. relaying information (15:15)Using stories to teach, lead, sell and inspire (17:45) Episode Linkshttps://master-storytelling.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 146Building a Business For a Better Life with Justin Jackson, Co-Founder of Transistor
When podcaster, author, and lifelong entrepreneur Justin Jackson co-founded Transistor, a podcast publishing platform, he already had years of experience building a business. As a child and young adult, Justin experimented with writing code and starting businesses in industries that interested him. When he and his wife started their family, the pressure to achieve financial security increased. Though some of his ventures failed, all these experiences were setting him up for his next big achievement. Because of his time being saturated in the market, he was able to catch the right wave at the right time; he’s riding that wave all the way to success. Justin’s advice to those looking to start a business is to build something for which people are already searching. Around 2016 when podcasting was just beginning to gain popularity, he noticed that it was still very much a DIY industry. Thus the idea to streamline podcast publication was born. Now Transistor makes creating podcasts accessible for the average person, regardless of their experience with coding and technology. In this way, clients find him instead of having to seek out those who are interested in his product. He’s also invested a lot of intentional time building relationships with his partner and team members. The purpose of owning his own company is to build a beautiful life for himself and those he works with. Every decision is made from this personal stance, and his company continues to grow at the pace that best serves that value. Main TopicsGrowing a podcast audience (06:00)Justin’s early love for entrepreneurship (10:45)Understanding the dynamics of your industry (16:00)Inner drive to forge your own path (17:30)Balancing work and family life (22:10)Justin’s introduction to coding (25:30)Inspiration for Transistor (30:15)Slow growth of the business (36:00)Protecting your partnership (43:30)Researching the market (51:12)Expanding the reach for your business (56:00)Ben’s top 5 takeaways (103:00) Episode Linkshttps://transistor.fm/ Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 145Transform Your Business by Prioritizing Profit with Susanne Mariga pt. 2
CFO, author, and entrepreneurial expert Susanne Mariga builds her work around the Profit First system. Profit First allows businesses to scale in ways that increase revenue and keep the cash flowing. This system uses a series of individual bank accounts that are created for specific purposes, such as profit, salary, taxes, and operating expenses. The first bank account to receive funds is the profit account while the last is the operating expenses. Many business owners make the mistake of doing the opposite by prioritizing the expenses for running the company. When there is less money to work with, owners adjust and make decisions using the resources available to them. In Susanne’s book Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises, she helps business owners implement systems that free them from money-related stressors and earn them the salary they deserve. One of the most impactful sections of her book discusses ways to approach taxes strategically so that companies use legal entities to their benefit and subsequently build their wealth. Having financial experts like Susanne and the Mariga Group in your corner can make all the difference in the success and sustainability of your business. Main TopicsKey aspects of the Profit First system (02:30)Financially preparing for tax season (04:30)Using systems that work for you (09:10)How to get started using Profit First (12:05)Seeking professional help with accounting (17:20)Susanne’s book serves minority demographics (19:00) Episode Linkshttps://marigagroup.comprofitmap.cohttps://susannemariga.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 144Transform Your Business by Prioritizing Profit with Susanne Mariga pt. 1
When Susanne Mariga began helping out at her father’s accounting firm at age 14, she never could have imagined she would end up here. Now, Susanne is a CFO specializing in high net worth strategies for entrepreneurs and is the first millionaire in her family. Her passion is providing business owners with strategies for restructuring their companies with strategies, automations and systems so that profit flows easily. In collaboration with author Mike Michalowicz, Susanne specialized her financial mastery in her book Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises. Having built her own accounting firm, which grew to a highly successful and profitable asset, selling it has allowed her to pursue what she is most passionate about. Working one on one with clients allows her to offer insight and practical expertise so that other businesses can flourish, particularly those that are minority owned and operated. Susanne’s success only adds to her credibility as an entrepreneurial giant in her field. Main TopicsSusanne’s journey into finance (04:45)Daughter’s birth changed her professional trajectory (8:00)The early days of Susanne’s new business (11:35)Building an asset that can create revenue (13:55)Transitioning to a profit first strategy system (15:15) Episode Linkshttps://susannemariga.com/https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/ Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 143The Rising Generation of World-Changing Entrepreneurs with Milan Kordestani
Brandishing his youth as one of his greatest assets, social entrepreneur, inventor, and author Milan Kordestani can’t be contained to a single industry. A business visionary from a young age, Milan began his first financial endeavor in middle school by breeding and selling rare species of turtles. From there he continued following his natural interests which extended into writing and creating space for people to talk about challenging topics. He founded a series of startups including a freelancing site, a publishing company, and a record label. Through these experiences, he gained business knowledge and clarity about his role pertaining to startups— Milan is a small business incubator. One of Milan’s favorite parts of building a company is getting it off the ground. He enjoys being the boots on the ground, identifying problems he might be able to solve for a specific demographic, and finding the right people to build a dream. As soon as it’s time to talk about scaling the business, he’s usually onto another project. Instead of succumbing to imposter syndrome, Milan chooses to see his youth as a strength. Through his publications, he is passionate about using his voice and unique perspective to make big changes in the world. By combining his love for entrepreneurship and his heart for bringing people together, he stands out as a leader in his generation seeking to make the world a better place.Main TopicsMilan’s early entrepreneurial experience as a reptile breeder (02:55)The roots of an entrepreneurial spirit (05:30)Youth perspective in the agriculture industry (08:45)Milan’s love of sharing his perspective through writing (11:45)Overcoming imposter syndrome (13:15)Milan’s first real company (14:55)I’m Just Saying shares tools for active listening and sharing (20:50)The process of starting multiple companies (25:10)Vetting new ideas (30:00) Episode Linkshttps://www.milankordestani.comhttps://audo.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 142The CEO of Marital Bliss: Creating a Culture Through Core Values with Meredith Monday Schwartz pt. 2
CEO and culture creator Meredith Monday Schwartz is passionate about investing in her employees and building a work environment that feels like family. At her wedding venue company, Here Comes the Guide, she works tirelessly to not only hire the best people for her teams but to create a sense of equality amongst them. According to Meredith, the value of an employee is not measured by how much time they spend working. Through clearly communicated key performance indicators, the leadership team at Here Comes the Guide can easily track an individual’s growth and productivity. With a combination of trust and verification, leadership empowers employees to function at their highest capacity. Other core values Meredith has built at her female-owned and operated company include investing in the sisterhood, putting relationships before sales, prioritizing work/life balance, and practicing fearless authenticity, especially during conflict. In order to keep drama at bay, she encourages open and honest communication directly with those involved. Through culture-building activities such as company retreats, book clubs, and small group goal setting, she is able to foster a sense of connectivity even though everyone works remotely. By implementing a more human-centered approach, Meredith is building a company that she hopes will be around long after she is gone. Main TopicsThe shift to running a fully remote company (03:12)Operating from core values (04:45)Hiring the right people (08:45)Creating powerful key performance indicators (12:30)Profit splitting between employees (16:30)Sisterhood first at Here Comes the Guide (18:00)Creating culture through core values (22:40)Building relationships through conflict resolution (26:35)Onboarding processes (31:05) Episode Linkshttps://www.herecomestheguide.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 141The CEO of Marital Bliss: Building a Business Slowly with Meredith Monday Schwartz
Meredith Monday Schwartz began her career at the women-powered wedding venue company Here Comes the Guide in 1997 as their first employee; now she’s the CEO. Before onboarding with the company, she was working in a highly stressful environment at a Top 10 legal firm as a paralegal. Seeking more life/work balance, she joined the fledgling team where she put her problem solving skills to work. In the early days, she played every role and learned how to do all the jobs she would eventually hire people to do. Those years of experience helped her develop the empathy and business savvy required to be the strong leader she is today. Here Comes the Guide helps couples all across the country find the perfect wedding venue for them. Its business structure is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which provides employees with a certain percentage of shareholdings after they’ve worked with the company for one year. This structure creates a sense of buy-in for employees to help the company grow and increase in value. During the global shut down in 2020, possibly one of the greatest challenges for the wedding industry to date, Here Comes the Guide actually flourished. They focused on helping clients navigate the crisis, moved to a four-day work week, and adapted to meet the ever-changing needs of their clientele. Meredith attributes much of the company’s success to their slow growth, grassroots approach that values the culture of the company over any quick profit plan. Main TopicsHow Meredith came to be a CEO (01:48)From paralegal work to a wedding venue start-up (04:15)The evolution of her role at Here Comes the Guide (08:35)Benefits of knowing how to do every job at the company (12:40)Systems and processing as a superpower (14:35)Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) (17:00)How the company grew through the pandemic (19:50)Transitioning from print to virtual (24:20)The value of slow growth (28:40)Adopting a four-day work week (30:00) Episode Linkshttps://www.herecomestheguide.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 140Trial By Fire: Life as an Indie Film Director with Stimson Snead pt. 2
In part two of the discussion with independent filmmaker Stimson Snead, he shares what it takes to succeed in the film industry. His advice to younger generations seeking to pursue creative endeavors is to leverage your unique gifts and resources. Don’t trust anyone who tries to sell you a one-size-fits-all formula for success because everyone walks a different path using their own tools and networks. Stimson’s wisdom, gleaned from years of failed attempts that eventually led to profitable achievements, applies to business as well as artistic pursuits. Even though people often discuss business and art as separate entities, Stimson believes they can work together. Now directing his first feature film, Tim Travers and the Time Traveler’s Paradox, he’s leaning into both his mastery of logistics and his trademark sarcastic humor to bring this dream to fruition. It takes great skill to marry both the right and left hemispheres of the brain in one project. For those seeking creative expression through their business, take the lead from Snead and learn the necessary people skills required to lead your team well. Main TopicsStimson’s advice to aspiring filmmakers (01:40)Necessary skills for making art your business (05:00)First feature film (07:50)Developing the script for Tim Travers and the Time Traveler’s Paradox (12:12)Building the film with score, color and effects (16:15)Process of distributing the film (21:20) Episode Linkshttps://stimsonsnead.comhttps://www.instagram.com/stimsonsnead Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Ep 139Trial By Fire: Life as an Indie Film Director with Stimson Snead pt. 1
EStimson Snead is an award-winning film director and writer who brings his unique artistic perspective to various creative endeavors. In an industry notorious for its cutthroat culture, Snead has experienced many failures on his path to success as an independent filmmaker. But none of the creative or financial obstacles prevented him from stubbornly refusing to give up on his dream. As a visionary in his field, Snead’s snarky persona and sardonic humor delight coworkers and audiences alike.Surrounded by talented creatives from childhood on, Snead’s radio DJ father and singer/songwriter mother instilled in him a passion for production. Even though he knew storytelling was his dream, he spent several years after film school struggling with failed projects and a lack of financial stability. Finally he began interfacing with wealthy individuals who were interested in investing in his projects, which has made all the difference. Now with a blossoming career and his sights set on big screen Hollywood films, Snead’s tenacity and determination continue to open doors into promising opportunities. Main TopicsStimson’s lifelong journey into creative expression and film (02:10)Dead ends at film school (07:05)Pulling the whole story together with directing (09:40)Support for the current writer’s strike (13:15)Independent film vs. corporate Hollywood (15:20)Using failure as an impetus for growth (18:20)Financial successes and challenges (20:10)Choosing persistence in the face of obstacles (22:20) Episode Linkshttps://stimsonsnead.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 138Building an Employee-Centric Culture with Chris Meroff pt. 2
In part two, leadership coach and vulnerability advocate Chris Meroff shares his four pillars for creating powerful teams through service-minded leadership. Many leaders want to begin by making swift decisions for the company as a whole. Chris believes that should be the last step and instead begins with casting visions of the future. The goal is to help others take ownership of their vision and to invest in people so that they invite your influence. This works both in business and in personal relationships. Paired with vision casting, the second pillar is consistently demonstrating empathy. Different from sympathy, empathy requires a slower, more intentionally present pace. Investing in people with compassion and understanding builds the necessary foundation for creating values-based teams.The third pillar of empowerment only works if leadership provides a clear road map developed through collaboration. Successful leaders encourage team members’ soft skills that lead to stronger interpersonal connections in the workplace. The final pillar is judgment, meaning those in leadership take responsibility for making critical decisions for the team because they’ve earned their respect. Rather than taking an authoritarian approach, leaders with the most influence commit to consistent principles at both home and work, and wait for the invitation to offer their expertise. Each individual creates their own glass ceiling; the best way to break through is with openness, transparency, and the full integration of personal and professional values. Main TopicsChoosing vulnerability in leadership (01:22)Vulnerability changes personal relationships (04:30)Vision casting to create ownership (07:40)Creating vision with a team (13:35)Slowing down with empathy vs. sympathy (16:30)Empowerment through soft skills (21:15)Executing judgment after earning authority (24:25)Balancing faith and hustle culture (26:45)Chris’ current projects (29:30) Episode Linkshttps://chrismeroff.comhttps://the1thing.com/bookhttps://www.jordanraynor.com/redeeming-your-time-retreat Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Ep 137Building an Employee-Centric Culture with Chris Meroff pt. 1
CEO and serial entrepreneur Chris Meroff helps companies build an employee-centric culture where team members are valued for who they are, not just for what they contribute. A leadership coach, inspirational speaker, and best-selling author, Chris draws on his personal experiences from over 25 years in business. He began working in the family business where he built a strong foundation for account management and problem-solving systems. When he stepped out on his own in 2011 to start his own company, he learned valuable lessons through his successes and failures. When his friend and business partner resigned unexpectedly, Chris used the challenging time for self-reflection and personal growth. He shifted his management style from client-centered to focus more on the happiness and wellbeing of his employees. Throughout this process, he discovered the power of leading with vulnerability. He realized that many leaders struggle to share their challenging emotions, especially in a professional setting. From his own healing journey, Chris now utilizes powerful tools such as the Enneagram to help teams communicate and interact with empathy. This approach leads to happier employees and sustainable success.Main TopicsChris’ love for rural Maine and Texas BBQ (01:55)Chris’ early start in the family business (07:45)Building a sense of intrinsic value (10:55)Launching his own business (12:40)Organizational unity (14:45)Chris’ business partner resigned unexpectedly (16:00)Using the Enneagram in business (17:45)Leading with empathy and vulnerability in relationships (23:27)Lack of vulnerability creates feelings of loneliness (27:00) Episode Linkshttps://chrismeroff.comhttps://enneagramuniverse.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 136The Science of Team Building with David Burkus Pt. 2
In part two of the conversation with leadership coach and team building expert David Burkus, he offers more practical tools for creating efficient and autonomous teams. Supported by forward-thinking research, David zeroes in on the importance of psychological safety as a pillar for any organization. Psychological safety is a combination of respect and trust, especially when team members are taking interpersonal risks by sharing ideas or issues with leadership. In conversations with team members, a strong leader listens thoughtfully, summarizes what they heard, and asks clarifying follow-up questions. Research also shows that people are more invested in their output if they know who is impacted by their work. Telling human stories about a company’s effects on the larger community and offering consistent and specific gratitude increases motivation. Intentionally investing in the relationships that keep a business running smoothly ensures a culture of connection and overall job satisfaction. Main TopicsBuilding an organization to run on its own (01:25)Definition of psychological safety (04:56)Julian Treasure’s RASA approach (08:07)Building relationships with clear communication (10:45)Prosocial motivation as a basic human desire (11:35)Celebrating positive impact as a team (14:10)It’s a Wonderful Life test (15:27)David’s book Best Team Ever (18:55) Episode Linkshttps://davidburkus.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 135The Science of Team Building with David Burkus Pt. 1
As a leader in innovative business thinking and the author of several best-selling books, David Burkus specializes in helping organizations build powerful teams. His most recent book, Best Team Ever, explores the science behind what allows certain teams to thrive while others struggle. In a post-pandemic world, David believes success comes from addressing microcultures within an organization versus analyzing the business as a whole. Three components that support cohesive team building are a foundation of common understandings, psychological safety, and a unified prosocial purpose. One of the best ways to create buy-in is to include team members in the decision-making process. Today’s entrepreneurs find themselves working on several different teams, each one with a unique project and group of people. Therefore it’s essential that leaders acquire skills for navigating dynamic cultures at play within the organization. Main TopicsShifting from single company culture to microcultures (01:25)The discussion around autonomy in business culture (04:25)The science behind productive team building (06:45)David’s 3 components for successful team building (08:50)Creating a team charter (11:35)Using questions to support team building (13:25)Collaboration in creating a team’s culture (15:57) Episode Linkshttps://davidburkus.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 134Developing Processes for Profitable Execution with Chuck Knabusch pt. 2
In his book Hope is Not a Business Strategy, thought leader Chuck Knabusch offers practical advice for turning business dreams into reality. Traditional business plans are evolving to a point where entrepreneurs and creatives are designing their own processes for scaling the business and measuring growth. Planning and documentation are important, but even more impactful are the steps a leader takes towards the end goal. Some of the best lessons are learned through taking action, making mistakes, and revising the process for future success. As businesses grow, founders begin hiring other people to take on increasing responsibilities. This can be a challenging time of transition as they learn to let go and trust their team to preserve the established culture. One pitfall to avoid is micromanaging. Rather than telling a team member how to do their tasks, it is more effective to clearly communicate desired outcomes. Chuck specializes in creating processes that best serve a company’s needs. He reiterates the importance of building these processes so that the business continues to thrive even after key players are no longer there. The most successful enterprises are those that adapt to change and use cyclical trends to their advantage. Consistent execution is the only guarantee for growth and sustainability. Main TopicsMistakes to avoid when building a team (01:10)The importance of creating processes (04:44)Breaking through growth edges (07:15)Moving beyond the traditional business plan (10:00)Executing great ideas (14:30)Good business ideas for current culture (17:15)Planning in light of AI evolution (18:45) Episode Linkshttps://www.13ten.comhttps://soulver.apphttps://www.amazon.com/Hope-Not-Business-Strategy-Control/dp/B0BFVKL9K8 Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 133Working On the Business, Not Just In the Business with Chuck Knabusch pt. 1
Chuck Knabusch is the founder 13Ten Business Solutions, LLC where he helps organizations design specific solutions for their individual needs. After his years in the military, Chuck worked for La-Z-Boy in systems management and various other applications within the company until his retirement. Now he runs his own LLC where he applies a variety of lessons learned from decades of leadership to help others maximize their potential. Chuck also wrote and published a book where he explores strategies for results-driven management based on his own experiences working with contractors. Building the foundation for any business begins by establishing core values that guide decision-making. Values lead to purpose, which then brings clarity in regards to the target audience. Clearly defining the ideal customer creates helpful parameters for marketing and outreach. It’s important to spend time working on the business, not just in the business, especially for entrepreneurs. Main TopicsChuck’s journey to becoming a thought leader (02:40)His various roles working at La-Z-Boy (06:30)Writing his book Hope is Not a Business Strategy (08:14)Building a business based on values (09:45)Start by defining the target audience (14:30)Specifying the audience based on evolution of the business (17:30) Episode Linkshttps://www.13ten.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 132Affordable Brand Awareness with Aditya Varanasi pt. 2
Entrepreneur and marketing expert Aditya Varanasi continues the conversation about advertising strategies for extending a company’s reach. Successful businesses are constantly looking for new ways to improve and grow. Powerful marketing is one tool for evaluating data and using creative problem solving skills to expand the business. What makes Aditya’s services so unique is that he uses his experience from working with a large, global corporation and converts it into strategic guidance for small businesses. Part of his mission is to provide up and coming organizations with visibility at a cost they can afford. By utilizing his micro campaign approach, he is able to individualize a business’s marketing needs in ways larger agencies cannot. Aditya’s biggest tip for current marketing trends is to look at the big picture in terms of awareness and reach. Cost per conversion is a helpful data point, but it is not the only type of marketing worth the investment. Main TopicsAddressing the financial risks of starting a business (02:15)How Awarity uses banner ads (05:30)Marketing through streaming services (07:16)Attracting large businesses to Awarity (08:43)Common mistakes in marketing (09:53) Episode Linkshttps://www.awarity.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 131Endings Are Also Beginnings: Storytelling in the Age of AI with Hugh Howey
As a wildly successful author of science fiction novels and short stories, Hugh Howey pushes himself to explore new creative horizons on each project. A lover of classic dystopian novels such as Animal Farm and Fahrenheit 451, Hugh loves multi-layered storytelling that pushes our understanding of what it means to be human. In a world that’s looking more and more like the apocalyptic settings in his novels, Hugh takes a more positive perspective on the impact of technology. Instead of subscribing to sweeping fears around the rise of artificial intelligence and the impending annihilation of the human race, he sees these developments as progress. Because of AI programs such as ChatGPT, human creations and contributions to the world have the potential to live forever, long after humans are gone. For this reason, Hugh sees AI as a path to immortality, not through the physical body but through a legacy of art and information. His stories frequently explore the boundaries of the human experience, especially as humanity itself is transitioning into something new. His timely and best-selling trilogy Silo is now a television series on AppleTV.Main TopicsSuspend expectations when it comes to creating art (02:45)Hugh’s favorite authors (05:03)AI and the future of humanity (07:20)Immortality becomes possible through AI (11:55)Human legacy lives on through our creations (13:49)Hugh’s top 3 science fiction movies (18:10)Turning Silo trilogy into a television show (20:35)Executive producing on the show (23:57) Episode Linkshttps://hughhowey.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts

Ep 130From Day Dreamer to Bestseller: How Hugh Howey Became a NY Times Best Selling Author
In this two-part episode of the podcast, Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley have an exclusive conversation with Hugh Howey, the New York Times bestselling author of over 20 books, including the hit "Silo Series" (FKA Wool") and Apple TV+'s upcoming series "Silo" based on Hugh Howey's New York Times bestseller trilogy. Howey shares his insights into what it takes to be a successful author and how reading novels every day played a pivotal role in his writing journey. Listeners will be inspired by Howey's advice on following their passions instead of chasing trends or money. Tune in to this podcast to gain valuable insights from one of the most successful authors of our time!Fans of dystopian dramas won't want to miss Apple TV+'s series "Silo". The show features a star-studded cast led by Rebecca Ferguson (“Dune," “Mission: Impossible"). Get ready for an engrossing new world full of mystery and intrigue!Links: https://tv.apple.com/us/show/silo/umc.cmc.3yksgc857px0k0rqe5zd4jicehttps://hughhowey.com/https://a.co/d/5Q9uvw6
Ep 129Affordable Brand Awareness with Aditya Varanasi pt. 1
When Aditya Varanasi chose to leave the corporate world to start his own brand awareness company, he knew it was a risky move. But he recognized an unaddressed need in the small business world for affordable and effective marketing. This led him to found Awarity, a digital advertising company that drives visibility for independently owned businesses at sustainable rates. Though he displayed entrepreneurial tendencies as a child, Aditya didn’t plan on getting into marketing. While studying pre-med at Purdue University, he followed his interest in chemical engineering which landed him a job at Frito-Lay. As he learned more about the marketing side of running a company, he realized he could provide a much needed service for other entrepreneurs. So he took the marketing strategies he learned from a large corporation and adapted them for smaller businesses. Now he works with clients to expand their reach by creating consistent brand awareness primarily through banner advertisements. He attributes his success in marketing to building persistent presence and telling a brand’s story through an emotional connection to the consumer. Main TopicsAditya’s early entrepreneurial spirit (03:45)Early career at Frito-Lay (05:58)Lessons in marketing at a large corporation (08:24)Noticing an opportunity in marketing for small businesses (12:11)Using banner ads (15:17)Aditya’s strategy for scaling his business (17:30)Applying big business strategies to small business (19:00)Pivoting during the pandemic (22:56) Episode Linkshttps://www.awarity.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 128School of Man with Cole Rodgers pt.2
For Cole Rodgers, the truest measure of a person is the level of impact they have on the people around them. After years of struggling with his own inner demons and witnessing the death of a close friend, Cole recognized his opportunity to convert his pain into forward progress. By consistently showing up to do the healing work on himself, he made positive changes to his personal and professional life.Now Cole uses his experiences to coach men who are seeking to step into their fullest potential. Many people are quick to focus on what they are lacking in their lives, but Cole trains men to embrace abundance. Comparison to others will only breed discontentment. Through his programs that support brotherhood and mentorship, Cole creates powerful experiences where men can build community and push themselves beyond what they believe is possible. By attending to both soul and body, community members strengthen their resolve and move toward their dreams with clear direction. Main TopicsCole’s turning point through the Navy SEAL’s civilian course (01:35)The freedom of speaking our truth (04:40)Converting pain into progress (06:40)The trap of seeking validation from others (09:15)Choose your network wisely (12:40)Abundance over scarcity (14:00)Cole’s legacy through School of Man (14:45)Tips for tapping into your highest potential (17:00) Episode Linkshttps://schoolofman.live Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 127School of Man with Cole Rodgers pt. 1
Coach and mentor Cole Rodgers is passionate about helping men step into their fullest potential as leaders and role models. Through his own dark night of the soul, he finally gave up warring with himself and realigned his values to what was most important to him. This meant leaving his corporate job, investing in his mental health through therapy, and pushing himself physically to maximum capacity. Now he uses his story as a tool to help men overcome challenges that are holding them back from living their best lives. Cole considers himself an alpha man and uses the skills he’s honed to teach men how to lead through example. There are two sides of the alpha man—one that is unhealthy and another that has been reborn through the fire of experience. Many people, not just men, struggle with addressing conflict in a helpful way. Cole works with clients to practice leading with human connection rather than aggression or emotionality. Instead of valuing themselves around sex, money, and status, Cole’s mission is to guide men through their inner healing work so they can impact those around them in positive ways. Main TopicsCole’s life experiences that prepared him for coaching (04:52)Connect before you correct in conflict (07:11)Cole’s humble beginnings (09:14)Rebirthing the alpha man (10:40)Lessons from Cole’s family of origin (11:17)Advice to young men (15:43)Cole shifted out of the corporate world (18:00)Self work is hard and necessary (21:54) Episode Linkshttps://schoolofman.live Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 126Letting Go in Business with Rani Puranik pt. 2
In part 2 of the discussion, business executive and philanthropist Rani Puranik shares her greatest lesson in life and business—having the courage to let go. Early in her career working for her family business, Rani spent countless hours building leadership teams and focusing on specific projects that mattered to her and the company. When her dad admired her work and then encouraged her to let go of her accounts, she wept. Fears crept in about how others might lose respect for her or allow the projects she’d started to fall to the wayside. Once she recognized the wisdom in such an approach, she was able to transition seamlessly with honor and empathy. Throughout her time as a team leader and global CFO, Rani has learned countless valuable lessons about working with people who simply want to feel seen and heard. She is deeply invested in giving back to the community, as evidenced by her involvement with the Puranik Foundation and founding a charter school for at-risk children. From her perspective, success is only worth it if it is shared with others. In her book 7 Letters to My Daughters, Rani imparts her observations and insights on the human experience. She tells her life story broken down into seven-year segments and hopes that her struggles and triumphs speak directly to her readers. By living a life centered around helping others succeed, Rani continues to build an empire that offers support in numerous ways around the globe. Main TopicsThe freedom of letting go (02:17)Rani empowers herself by letting go of her accounts (05:07)The fears around letting go of what we’ve created (06:54)Using an empathetic approach to stimulate progression (08:47)In’s and out’s of working closely with family (10:18)Rani’s book 7 Letters to My Daughters (14:49)The point of success is to give back to the community (18:00) Episode Linkshttps://ranipuranik.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 125Not Your Average Family Business with Rani Puranik pt. 1
Rani Puranik is a multidimensional executive leader, founder, CFO, and author making a global impact in a myriad of industries and societal spheres. She is currently overseeing several passion projects such as the Puranik Foundation, a multigenerational organization focused on providing transformational experiences through education, sustainability, and mindfulness. Throughout her journey of living in both the US and India, raising a family, and participating in the family business, Rani has built success by asking one simple question in a variety of environments: “What do you need?”As a young mother raising daughters in India, Rani recognized the need for more opportunities where girls could freely express themselves and use their voice. This led her to develop an expressive movement program for girls which eventually expanded to her own dance school. She was able to use the systems and facilitation techniques involved for team building in other applications as well, which continued to expand her reach into additional industries. She continues to use those systems to help her run Worldwide Oilfield Machine, a global powerhouse that employs a diverse workforce in 10 different countries. Main TopicsRani’s gifts and interests in business even as a child (03:08)Arranged marriages in Indian culture (06:58)Building leadership through dance and artistic expression (08:36)Rani develops a dance school for girls in India (09:22) Episode Linkshttps://ranipuranik.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts
Ep 124Serial Entrepreneurship with Yong-Soo Chung part 2
In part 2 of the discussion with founder and CEO Yong-Soo Chung, he shares the wisdom he’s gained from years of taking risks, making mistakes and learning from every experience. For Yong-Soo, he thrives under pressure as many successful entrepreneurs do. So instead of building his businesses as side projects, he went all in. His return on such high-risk investments continues to pay off as he pushes himself and his team each day to be better than the day before. Part of succeeding in business is being willing to make mistakes. Yong-Soo admits he’s made many along the way and has also been able to turn those lessons into opportunities for growth. With all this experience, his latest passion project is a podcast in which he teaches and encourages other entrepreneurs how to avoid pitfalls and scale their businesses for maximum growth. Main TopicsDiscomfort allows us to realize our full potential (02:35)Using data as feedback for improvement (06:03)How to know when it’s time to expand (07:08)Utilizing the “I, You, We” system for scaling a business (09:35)Hiring the right people for the job (10:55)How Yong-Soo builds his life around change (16:13)First Class Founders podcast (20:00) Episode Linkshttps://urbanedcsupply.comhttps://www.firstclassfounders.com Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected] for listening to The Friday Habit.Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.Listen, rate, and subscribe!Apple PodcastsSpotifyGoogle Podcasts