The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, we delve into the power of storytelling in sales. We explore how compelling stories can connect with audiences, build trust, and drive business growth across various industries.Key Points Covered:The Importance of Storytelling in Business:Josh and Alissa discuss why storytelling is more than just a marketing tool—it’s a powerful way to create emotional connections with audiences. They highlight how effective storytelling can differentiate a brand and foster loyalty by making messages memorable and impactful.Crafting Stories That Resonate Across Audiences:The episode provides insights on how business leaders can tailor their stories to connect with diverse audiences. Josh shares examples from the podcast where guests effectively adapted their narratives to appeal to different sectors and customer bases, demonstrating the versatility of good storytelling.Leveraging Stories for Business Growth:We examine how storytelling isn’t just about engagement—it’s a strategic approach to driving sales and business development. Josh and Alissa discuss practical ways entrepreneurs can use stories to enhance their sales efforts and connect more deeply with potential clients.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: John Livesay]:John talks about how storytelling is essential for drawing in audiences and fostering business growth. He shares his perspective on why stories are more persuasive than data alone, helping businesses connect on a deeper level with their customers.[Guest 2: Michael Houlihan and Bonnie Harvey, Barefoot Spirit]:Michael and Bonnie share their journey of building Barefoot Wines, highlighting how storytelling played a crucial role in their brand’s success. They discuss their transition into helping other entrepreneurs turn their stories into impactful Hollywood-style narratives.Tune in to learn how to craft stories that sell and create lasting connections with your audience!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:1163 – Make Better Sales Through Exceptional Storytelling with John Livesay259 - Being Resourceful with What You Have with The Barefoot Spirit's Michael Houlihan and Bonnie HarveyResources:How to Be an Exceptional Podcast Host8 Reasons to Start a Podcast for Your B2B BusinessB2B Podcast as a Business Development Tool

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, we kick off our special series celebrating 2000 episodes by exploring the theme of generosity in business. We discuss the importance of leading with generosity and finding the balance between giving and gaining in the world of podcasting and beyond.Key Points Covered:The Evolution of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:Josh and Alissa reflect on the origins of the podcast, which started as a tool for interviewing clients in 2018, and how it has grown into a platform for meaningful conversations with entrepreneurs worldwide. They discuss the journey from its humble beginnings in PR to becoming a cornerstone of business advice and inspiration.The Philosophy of Leading with Generosity:The episode dives into the Go-Giver philosophy and how it has shaped the way the podcast engages with guests and audiences. Josh shares insights on how giving value upfront—without expecting anything in return—has fostered trust and long-lasting relationships, both on and off the show.Balancing Generosity and Strategic Gains:We explore how podcast guests can maximize their impact by actively participating in promoting and repurposing their appearances. The discussion focuses on strategies for balancing generosity with strategic actions to ensure mutual benefits for both the host and the guest.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: Bob Burg, Burg Communications, Inc.]:Bob discusses the transformative power of generosity in business, explaining why leading with a giving mindset can create more meaningful and profitable connections. He highlights the importance of giving first as a core business strategy.[Guest 2: Jessica Rhodes, Interview Connections]:Jessica emphasizes that simply appearing on a podcast isn’t enough. She talks about the importance of guests taking an active role in sharing and repurposing their content to fully leverage their podcast appearances for business growth.Listen to this episode to discover how to give generously while also reaping the rewards of meaningful engagement!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:1192 - The Go-Giver Philosophy with Bob Burg1921 – Maximizing Your Impact with Jessica Rhodes Resources:7 Go-Giver Mindset Tips: Ignite Your ProsperityPodcast Guest Preparation 6 Expert Tips to Elevate ImpactHow to Be an Exceptional Podcast Guest

PodCash Leader Network Attraction Mastery WorkshopReaching the 2000th episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" is no small feat. Josh Elledge, the host, has spent countless hours conversing with over 2000 leaders, amassing approximately 40,000 minutes of content. This milestone episode is a treasure trove of insights and strategies for B2B business owners looking to attract high-value clients, partners, and investors without relying on traditional lead generation methods, spam, or ads. Let's dive into the key takeaways and actionable advice shared in this special episode.Josh emphasizes that the cornerstone of attracting high-value opportunities lies in building genuine relationships. Many business owners struggle with lead generation not because of a marketing problem, but due to a lack of meaningful connections. He advises engaging in meaningful conversations, showing generosity, and leveraging perceived authority. To achieve consistent and predictable business growth, Josh outlines six key strategies: public relations and visibility, social media engagement, networking, direct outreach, paid advertising, and SEO and content marketing. He highlights that 90% of top-level B2B decision-makers typically do not respond to unsolicited sales attempts, advocating for trust-building and avoiding pushy sales tactics.Josh also discusses the importance of language in business, encouraging listeners to view interactions as opportunities to build genuine connections rather than merely pursuing sales. He advises adopting "noble intent" and prioritizing high-value relationships over immediate sales. Authority is earned through consistent effort, and Josh suggests assessing your competence and sharing your expertise. Leveraging platforms like podcasts can significantly enhance your ability to build connections and authority. By crafting enticing invitations and being a generous host, you can attract high-quality connections. Josh shares success stories to illustrate the power of building genuine relationships, emphasizing that podcasting offers unique advantages for organic networking and transitioning to business opportunities.Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgeResources:B2B Sales 101: Stop Selling, Start Serving and Build RelationshipsMastering the Art of B2B Social Selling: Tips, Tricks, and Strategies for SuccessThe Secrets of Consistent Sales: B2B Relationship Building

Mastering Agency Growth and Client Retention In the latest episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Colby Wegter, the founder of the Delivery Mastery community. The discussion delves into the intricacies of agency growth, the critical importance of client retention, and the common challenges faced by agency owners in today's competitive landscape. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Colby, providing a comprehensive guide for agency owners looking to enhance their business strategies. Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore valuable resources aimed at enhancing their business connections, including introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his extensive experience, having engaged in private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to uncover the best sources of business success. Josh offers a free video class that outlines strategies for achieving 100% inbound marketing in any industry within six to eight months, emphasizing a spam-free, ad-free, and sales-free approach. He encourages listeners to visit his website, upmyinfluence.com, to access this resource. Following this introduction, Josh welcomes Colby Wegter to the show. Colby, who has spent over a decade in the digital marketing agency space, shares his journey, including the challenges he faced, such as burnout, and how these experiences led to the creation of the Delivery Mastery community. Colby begins by recounting his 12 years in the digital marketing agency world, with eight of those years as an agency owner. He candidly discusses the severe burnout he experienced in 2022, which nearly led to hospitalization. This period of intense stress and overcommitment prompted him to reevaluate his approach to work and life. In 2023, Colby found solace and support through networking with others who were navigating similar challenges, leading to the formation of the Delivery Mastery community. The core mission of Delivery Mastery is to provide a supportive environment for agency owners who often feel isolated and overwhelmed. Colby emphasizes the importance of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals who understand the unique pressures of running an agency. He aims to share techniques, systems, and frameworks that helped him transition from experiencing multiple burnouts to achieving multiple seven-figure revenues. About Colby Wegter: Colby Wegter has been involved in digital marketing since 2013 and has spent the last eight years as a partner in a bootstrapped agency that ranks among the top 1% globally, according to Clutch. His journey began on a farm, in a house without air conditioning, in a small town with no stoplights and a population of 600. He attended a Big Ten university and graduated with a degree in elementary education. Following graduation, Colby took a teaching job in Brooklyn, NY, but he left after just 4.5 months. Colby then joined BrandYourself as employee number 12, where he launched and managed the highest volume service, handling 160 clients simultaneously. After a year with BrandYourself, the company was featured on Shark Tank and turned down a $2 million offer from Robert Herjavec. After leaving BrandYourself, Colby moved to a marketing agency in the Twin Cities before co-founding Agency Jet with two partners. Under Colby's leadership, Agency Jet experienced remarkable growth, doubling its revenue every year for six years and is projected to reach $2.8 million in revenue this year. Throughout his career, Colby’s core strength has been retaining clients for unusually long periods. While the average client retention in the digital marketing industry is about six months, Colby often retains clients for over three years, with many staying with Agency Jet for up to six years. Colby is known for his strong opinions on delighting and delivering value to clients. With a philosophy of prioritizing clients first, employees second, and investors third, Agency Jet has grown from zero clients and revenue in 2016 to over 70 clients, eight full-time staff members, and $2.8 million in annual recurring revenue. The agency excels in providing world-class customer service while maintaining a lean operational model, compared to other agencies in the $2 million revenue range that typically have 20 or more employees. On the podcast, Colby would like to discuss strategies for scaling with less stress, as he is now focused primarily on strategy and inbound marketing, having stepped back from day-to-day operations at Agency Jet. He can provide insights on scaling through automation, team management, and maintaining long-term client relationships for predictable recurring revenue. Additionally, Colby is working on a community for agency owners called Delivery Mastery. This community aims to support agency owners who have yet to reach seven figures in revenue, offering a network of peers and strategies to elimina

A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Leadership   In a recent podcast episode hosted by Josh, listeners were treated to an enlightening conversation with Graham Wilson, a renowned leadership expert and founder of Success Factory. Dubbed a "leadership wizard" by a client, Graham brings over three decades of experience in leadership, from his early days in the British Army to his current role in corporate leadership. This blog post delves into the key themes and insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to help leaders at all levels navigate the complexities of modern leadership. Graham Wilson's title of "leadership wizard" was coined by a client who appreciated his ability to simplify complex leadership concepts. This simplicity is a cornerstone of his approach, focusing on helping leaders decode what effective leadership looks like in today’s fast-paced world. Reflecting on his extensive career, Graham recounts his early experiences in the British Army, where he learned the importance of teamwork and high performance. He was introduced to the concept of "mission command," which emphasizes empowering teams to make decisions to achieve a shared purpose. This experience starkly contrasted with his observations in the corporate world, where he found organizations often over-managed and under-led. Today, Graham believes we are in a new era of leadership characterized by rapid change and uncertainty. He describes the current environment as "VUCA" (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous), which requires leaders to adopt a more agile and collaborative mindset. The traditional model of leadership, where leaders have all the answers, is no longer viable. Instead, leaders must foster a culture of empowerment, allowing team members to contribute to problem-solving and decision-making. By integrating these principles and practical tips into your leadership approach, you can create high-performance environments, inspire your team, and leave a lasting impact on your organization.   About Graham Wilson: Graham is a Leadership Expert, author of Leadership Laid Bare, The New Leadership Manifesto and wabisugi. He is the creator of ChangePro and the inspiration behind Successfactory. Described by clients as the UK's #1 Leadership Trainer and Coach, Graham is trusted by many leading global brands to develop their leaders and teams. Graham's specialities include: Leadership Development, Strategy Creation and Implementation, Value Innovation, Vitality, Agility, Leading Change, Resilience, Developing Elite Teams, Executive Coaching, Programme and Project Management and Sales Force Transformation. Graham is also a keynote speaker at leading conferences around the world. About The Success Factory: Our purpose is to awaken possibility in leaders and teams to deliver extraordinary results. We believe that in today’s competitive, volatile, uncertain, complex and ambiguous world there is a better way to lead organisations. In times of fast change organisations need outstanding leaders, not just great managers. We focus on developing your leadership capability in 5 critical areas: New World Leadership Skills: We have worked out what successful leaders actually do to deliver outstanding results. We have decoded this into a system of pragmatic tools and techniques that we want to share with you. Strategy and Culture: Hope is not the only strategy! We help you to create and translate strategy into action. We will share with you the latest techniques for developing New World strategies at all levels in the organisation. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Success Factory website at https://www.thesuccessfactory.co.uk/ Check out The Success Factory on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/400208 Check out Graham Wilson on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/leadershipwizard Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.   Innovation: We help you to create a culture and process where people consistently develop great ideas to improve results. We can help you ensure innovation is part of your DNA. Leading Change: Great leaders know how to operate with speed, agility and to make change happen. We show you how to do this. We will show you how to lead change by taking people with you. Building Elite Teams: We will teach you a powerful range of tools and techniques to ensure you know how to build high performance teams. We ensure that you know how to set up your teams

Navigating the Complexities of Marketing In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Marc Ensign, a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) specializing in the legal, financial, and medical sectors, and the founder and CEO of LoudMouse. Marc shared his extensive experience and insights into effective marketing strategies, the challenges businesses face with marketing agencies, and the importance of leadership and data transparency in driving successful marketing efforts. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide businesses in their marketing endeavors. One of the critical points Marc emphasizes is the lack of dedicated leadership in marketing within many organizations. While companies typically have a CEO, CFO, and sales team leaders, marketing often gets sidelined. This absence of leadership can lead to ineffective strategies and wasted resources. Marc's role as a fractional CMO allows him to step in and provide the necessary oversight and direction. By understanding the intricacies of marketing and having a comprehensive view of the business, he can identify issues that may not be apparent to other executives. This insight enables him to make informed decisions and adjustments to marketing strategies based on data rather than gut feelings Marc notes that the marketing landscape is constantly evolving, making it essential for businesses to stay updated. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and transparency in marketing efforts. In a world where consumers are increasingly skeptical, presenting a genuine brand story and connecting with audiences on a human level is crucial. Many businesses struggle to answer fundamental questions about their marketing performance, such as conversion rates and lead sources. This lack of clarity often leads to frustration and disconnection from marketing efforts. Marc stresses the need for robust tracking systems to gain insights into what is working and what isn’t. About Marc Ensign: MARC ENSIGN is a renowned marketer, prolific storyteller, and accomplished musician. After spending over a decade playing bass with the Broadway show Rent, Marc discovered he had a talent for getting people to pay attention. Think about it. How else does a kid with no experience or connections pass up thousands of other musicians to land the most coveted gig in New York City? Really good marketing. When his stint on Broadway ended, he (temporarily) hung up his bass and built a successful digital marketing agency to help companies compete in otherwise impossible industries to break into. This approach caught the attention of Fortune 500 Companies such as Berkshire Hathaway, American Express, and Nike, as well as Celebrities, Athletes, and Entertainers like Tiger Woods and Oprah Winfrey. But eventually, that sort of thing got boring, so he moved on. Now, leveraging over twenty years in the marketing industry, Marc is working with companies as a Fractional CMO to solve the marketing issues that have been plaguing businesses for years, from underperforming agencies and unpredictable results to wasted marketing spend and a lack of transparency. All while alleviating the stress of managing the marketing team so business owners can focus on what they do best. And that’s (more or less) how LoudMouse was born. Of course, none of this would be possible without Marc's incredibly understanding wife, who has been on this rollercoaster for 22 years and counting. Together, they have two kids: Bella, who is currently attending FSU with a major in political science and journalism, and Zach, who is studying to be a game designer. As far as that whole music thing goes, Marc still tours a few times a year with various Broadway shows. It’s a pretty cool side hustle and an even better way to get people to give you a standing ovation at the end of the night. About LoudMouse: LoudMouse is a Fractional CMO agency specializing in helping service based businesses. They utilizes a top-to-bottom approach to marketing that leaves you with no doubt that your marketing dollars are well-spent. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out LoudMouse website at https://loudmouse.com/ Check out LoudMouse on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/loudmouse-fractional-cmo/ Check out Marc Ensign on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcensign/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Mastering Outsourcing and Video Marketing   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh delves into the intricacies of outsourcing and video marketing with Kirsten Graham, co-founder and co-CEO of Six Figure Business Coaching. Kirsten brings over 16 years of experience in the outsourcing industry, particularly in helping businesses streamline their marketing tasks through virtual assistants (VAs). This blog post will break down the key takeaways from their conversation, offering actionable advice and expert insights to help you effectively manage virtual assistants and leverage video marketing to enhance your business operations. Kirsten shares her journey into the world of outsourcing, humorously referring to herself as the "outsourcing queen." With a focus on helping businesses outsource marketing tasks to VAs, primarily based in the Philippines, Kirsten acknowledges the mixed experiences many entrepreneurs have had with outsourcing. She attributes these challenges to a lack of proper management and communication. Drawing from her extensive experience, she shares several best practices for managing virtual assistants effectively, such as providing clear job descriptions, investing in training, utilizing project management tools, building relationships, understanding cultural differences, and committing to long-term roles. Transitioning to the topic of video marketing, Kirsten shares her personal experience in the real estate industry, where she began creating videos to improve client communication. She explains how her initial frustration with clients not bringing necessary documentation led her to create informative videos that enhanced the client experience. Kirsten encourages businesses to leverage video marketing as a way to give value without asking for anything in return, aligning with the philosophy of "givers gain." Josh inquires about how Six Figure Business Coaching supports clients in implementing effective video marketing strategies, and Kirsten explains that her company not only helps clients develop their marketing strategies but also matches them with trained virtual assistants who can assist in executing those strategies. About Kirsten Graham: Kirsten loves helping business owners create evergreen value-based video content that showcases their authority to build know, like, and trust. Knowing that time is our most valuable asset Kirsten and her team train Marketing VA’s for their clients who then take care of video/audio editing, social media and email marketing. This frees the business owner up to focus on making money! About Six Figure Business Coaching: We help entrepreneurs scale through video marketing with a marketing virtual assistant doing the heavy lifting through our signature program, https://TheMarketingVAAdvantage.com Our Outsourcing For Bosses program teaches entrepreneurs how to scale their business. Our business coaches teach you how to create original video content, marketing strategy, how to become a master delegator, provides done-for-you systems and processes and more so you can become an influencer in your niche, generate lead and close more sales. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Six Figure Business Coaching website at https://www.sixfigurebusinesscoaching.com/ Check out Six Figure Business Coaching on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/six-figure-business-coaching-llc Check out Kirsten Graham on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirstengrahamsfbc Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

The Importance of Financial Leadership for Small Businesses In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the critical role of financial leadership in small businesses, particularly focusing on the transformative impact of fractional CFOs. Our guest, Jay Dotson, a partner at Prosper CFO, shares his wealth of experience and insights on how businesses can enhance their financial health through strategic financial management. This blog post will break down the key points discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to help small business owners navigate their financial challenges. Jay provides an overview of Prosper CFO, explaining that the firm offers a comprehensive suite of outsourced accounting services. With a team of about ten professionals, Prosper CFO operates in an industry-agnostic manner, allowing them to work with a diverse range of clients. Their primary goal is to help businesses grow by providing the financial leadership necessary to navigate complex financial landscapes. One of the key themes of the episode is the challenges faced by small business owners in managing their finances. Jay points out that many small business owners take on the role of CEO, which often translates to being the "chief everything officer." This can lead to a reliance on CPAs and bookkeepers for financial guidance, but these professionals typically focus on historical data rather than future strategic planning. Jay introduces a framework called the "Seven Sources of Cash," which he developed to help business owners understand how to improve their cash flow. This framework goes beyond the common strategies of acquiring more clients or reducing expenses, offering a more comprehensive approach to cash flow management. Jay explains that his firm has created a calculator that allows business owners to input key metrics and see the potential impact of small changes in these areas on their cash flow. This tool helps identify the most significant opportunities for improvement. The episode concludes with the host thanking Jay for sharing his insights and encouraging listeners to subscribe for more motivational content. About Jay Dotson: Jay Dotson is a Partner at Prosper CFO, an Austin, TX-based CFO, accounting, and tax firm. His firm is known for bringing holistic financial leadership while being engaging and proactive. They obsess over client ROI and are on a mission to create $100M in free cash flow and tax savings over the next 10 years for their clients. There is a massive gap in financial leadership for small businesses. While bookkeepers and CPAs often focus on the past, owners struggle to make the right strategic decisions for the future. As a result, it is unsurprising that 82% of businesses fail due to poor cash management. They fail not because their product or service isn’t good but because managing cash in a business can be complicated. Many owners believe increasing revenue is the only solution. While that may help, there are seven ways to impact operational cash flow in any business. Jay developed a framework called the 7 Sources of Cash™ to help owners maximize cash flow to scale to the next level and thrive in any economy. About Prosper CFO: Build a business that prospers. Our goal is to help you grow your business through our expertise in bookkeeping, tax and CFO services. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Prosper CFO website at https://prospercfo.com/ Check out Prosper CFO on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/prospercfo Check out Jay Dotson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-dotson-mba-61836b107 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Unlocking the Future of IoT: Exploring Interoperability in IoT Devices In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh sat down with Nick Earle, the CEO of Eseye and the host of the IoT Leaders Podcast, to delve into the intricacies of the Internet of Things (IoT) industry. The conversation was rich with insights on the challenges and advancements in IoT, particularly focusing on connectivity and interoperability issues that have historically hindered the growth of IoT technologies. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for anyone interested in the evolving landscape of IoT. Nick begins by addressing a significant discrepancy in the IoT space. He recalls a time when Cisco predicted that by 2020, 50 billion devices would be connected to the internet. However, the reality fell short, with only 11 billion devices connected. This gap underscores the challenges that the IoT industry faces, particularly regarding interoperability and connectivity. One of the fundamental issues in IoT is the prevalence of proprietary systems. Much like mobile network operators with their SIM cards, IoT devices often operate on closed systems, creating barriers for communication between devices. This proprietary nature leads to frustration for both consumers and businesses, hindering the seamless integration of IoT technologies. Nick elaborates on Eseye's innovative approach to solving connectivity issues in IoT. The company has developed a solution that allows devices to connect to any network globally, eliminating the proprietary lock that has long plagued the industry. This solution is akin to the airline industry's evolution, where travelers can now purchase a single ticket that allows them to fly on multiple airlines through alliances like Star Alliance. By abstracting the connectivity process, Eseye aims to simplify IoT integration for businesses and consumers. One of the standout features of Eseye's technology is its ability to enable devices to automatically switch between networks, ensuring that devices remain connected regardless of their location, providing a seamless user experience. About Nick Earle: Nick is CEO of Eseye, a global IoT connectivity solutions company with offices in 7 countries, more than 2000 customers across 190 countries and is deploying its IoT connectivity solutions in large Enterprises including 4 of the Fortune 10. Nick spearheads Eseye’s strategy and firmly believes in connectivity that ‘just works’; that makes people’s lives and jobs easier; connectivity that’s invisible. He’s a visionary business leader with a distinguished career in technology spanning more than 30 years, spanning large corporations and dynamic start-ups and oscillating between start-ups and global technology, telco and transportation companies. Previously, Nick led organisations and cross-company transformation programs for two $50B global corporations; Cisco where he ran the Cloud and Managed Services business as well as their Worldwide Field Services function, and Hewlett Packard where he ran the global Enterprise Marketing function and the internet transformation strategy. Nick was voted #2 in Computer Reseller News list of the 25 most ‘Disruptive Channel Executives in IT globally’. He has recently received the Juniper Research ‘Mover and Shaker’ award and named ‘CxO of the Year’ at the 2023 IoT Global Awards, highlighting his visionary leadership and success in propelling Eseye to an enviable position in the IoT space. About Eseye: As a world leader in IoT connectivity solutions, Eseye enables customers to achieve lasting value from global IoT projects. They bring the deep device expertise necessary to integrate, manage, and optimize IoT connectivity for estates of any scale or complexity. Eseye seamlessly connects these devices across 190 countries and more than 700 networks, maintaining near-100% uptime. Eseye approaches IoT with a unique perspective, always starting with the device. Ensuring the device is correctly configured is seen as the key to success. They collaborate with customers to define what success looks like and then develop a custom roadmap to ensure IoT deployment is done right the first time. Eseye supports customers through every stage, from concept to implementation and beyond. Their future-proofed IoT solutions are built on decades of end-to-end delivery experience with major clients such as Amazon, Shell, and Costa Coffee.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Eseye website at https://www.eseye.com/ Check out Eseye on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenbananaseo/ Check out Nick Earle on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/nearle Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInflu

Navigating the Evolving Landscape of Paid Advertising and NewslettersIn this insightful episode of the podcast, the host, Josh Elledge, engages in a deep conversation with Max Bidna, also known as "Marketing Max." The discussion revolves around Max's journey from Wall Street to becoming a marketing expert, focusing on the evolution of paid advertising and the growing importance of newsletters as a marketing strategy.Josh Elledge sets the stage by introducing Max Bidna, highlighting his impressive background and the topics to be covered. The episode promises to delve into the current marketing landscape, particularly the challenges and opportunities presented by paid advertising and the strategic use of newsletters. Max's career began on Wall Street, where he assisted early-stage companies in raising capital. However, after failing the Series 7 exam, he found himself at a crossroads. A client, recognizing his potential, asked him to run Facebook ads for her business. Despite his initial hesitation, Max accepted the challenge, turning a $2,000 ad spend into $20,000 in revenue within two weeks. This success ignited his passion for performance marketing, leading him to establish his own advertising agency.Max highlights the significant changes in the advertising landscape since he started in 2016. The primary challenges today include increased costs and heightened competition. The cost of advertising on platforms like Facebook has risen dramatically, making it difficult for startups and small businesses to achieve a positive return on investment (ROI) from their ad spend. To stand out, businesses need to focus on unique value propositions and personalized marketing strategies that resonate with their target audience. In light of these challenges, Max advocates for the use of newsletters as a powerful marketing tool. He explains that newsletters can help businesses maintain customer engagement and increase LTV without the need for expensive advertising campaigns. By providing valuable content and building personal connections, businesses can create a relatable narrative that resonates with their audience, leading to increased trust and loyalty.About Max Bidna:Max Bidna has a strong passion for helping companies grow and bringing smiles to people’s faces. They have been directly involved in the growth of over 200 companies and continue to do so daily through their advertising agency, angel investing, and advisory work.Their journey into Growth Advertising began while working in the finance industry, where they assisted companies in raising capital. It soon became evident that companies struggled to find a reliable marketing or advertising channel for business growth, regardless of how much funding they secured from investors. Consequently, Max assembled a team and launched their agency from Hell’s Kitchen, NYC, in early 2017.Since then, they have collaborated with over 120 companies across multiple countries, helping them expand their businesses through Paid Media. Thanks to their proven Growth Advertising process developed over the years, the agency’s average client generates $4.22 in revenue for every $1 spent on advertising.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Marty Capital website athttps://www.martycapital.com/Check out Marty Capital on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/marty-capital/Check out Max Bidna on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/maxbidnaDon’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here. 

Unlocking Business Success: The Role of Iteration and AI in Digital Solutions   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Morgan Witham, the CEO of CoLab, a digital agency renowned for solving business challenges through innovative web solutions. This episode delves into CoLab's services, its history, and the current trends shaping user experience and digital marketing, particularly the integration of artificial intelligence (AI). Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Morgan, providing a comprehensive guide for businesses looking to enhance their digital strategies. Morgan Witham begins by providing an overview of CoLab, emphasizing its mission to address specific business problems through web-based solutions. CoLab's team comprises strategists, UX/UI designers, developers, and software engineers, all dedicated to enhancing user experience and functionality. The agency specializes in redesigns and rebuilds, unique feature development, and long-term partnerships, moving beyond project-based work to develop ongoing relationships with clients, leveraging institutional knowledge for continuous improvement. Notable examples of CoLab's work include improving user experience for Idaho Central Credit Union, enhancing digital interfaces for Virginia Credit Union and Dominion Energy, and improving patient interaction for Chin Med. Reflecting on CoLab's history, Morgan notes that the agency was founded in 2008 by Eddie O'Leary on the principle that collaboration between design and development leads to better outcomes. Since joining six years ago, Morgan has played a pivotal role in refining processes, expanding national presence, and honing the agency's value proposition. Morgan highlights several key trends in user experience, such as ensuring consistency across platforms and using AI for content creation and personalization. He advocates for an iterative approach to web development and user engagement, emphasizing continuous iteration and real-time data utilization. In closing, Morgan invites listeners to explore CoLab's website for valuable resources and encourages those interested in improving their digital presence to reach out for a website audit or to discuss specific challenges.   About Morgan Witham: Morgan Witham is the CEO of COLAB, a digital agency that has transformed how marketers leverage digital through custom websites built to grow with their organizations. With a background in investment banking, Morgan’s specialty is in strategy development, cross-functional implementation, finance, relationship building, and coaching and development of personnel. Morgan’s leadership style is characterized by her systems-thinking approach, which involves a keen understanding of how key functions of the business interact and influence each other. She champions a culture of agility, transparency, and continuous learning, with an unwavering commitment to her human-first approach. Under her leadership, COLAB has not only achieved significant business success but has made a measurable and significant impact on its clients’ growth trajectories. About COLAB: COLAB creates websites that grow with companies and their digital teams. Powering progress, one pixel at a time. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out COLAB website at https://www.teamcolab.com/ Check out COLAB on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/colab-multimedia Check out Morgan Witham on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-witham-8529133 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Navigating Sales Tax in E-Commerce In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh delves into the intricate world of sales tax compliance with Jason Parr, the CEO of Peisner Johnson, also known as "The Sales Tax People." This episode is a must-listen for e-commerce businesses grappling with the complexities of sales tax, especially in the wake of the 2018 Supreme Court case "Wayfair vs. South Dakota." Below, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode to help you navigate the often-confusing landscape of sales tax compliance. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore his free video resource, which offers insights into generating business leads and partnerships. He emphasizes his extensive experience, having conversed with over 2,000 business leaders, and encourages listeners to visit his website, Up My Influence, for more information. Jason Parr, CEO of Peisner Johnson, joins the conversation. With 33 years of experience, Peisner Johnson has honed its focus on sales tax compliance over the past six years. Jason's expertise provides a deep dive into the challenges and solutions surrounding sales tax for e-commerce businesses. The 2018 Supreme Court case "Wayfair vs. South Dakota" fundamentally changed the sales tax landscape. Prior to this ruling, businesses were only required to collect sales tax in states where they had a physical presence. The Wayfair decision established that businesses must now register and collect sales tax in states where they exceed certain sales thresholds, regardless of physical presence. This has significantly increased the complexity for e-commerce businesses, which may now have sales tax obligations in multiple states. Jason outlines three critical questions that every e-commerce business must consider to ensure sales tax compliance: Do I Have Nexus? Is What I Sell Taxable? Who is Selling the Product? Navigating sales tax can quickly become complicated, especially for rapidly expanding businesses. About Jason Parr: Jason has dedicated his career to helping companies find peace of mind when it comes to state and local tax (SALT), especially sales tax. He has been with Peisner Johnson, "The Sales Tax People", for 27 years. He currently serves as the President and CEO, and has deep experience with all services offered by Peisner Johnson. Having "grown up" in the SALT arena, he has gained an expertise on how to navigate the sales tax issues and processes that keep owners, tax professionals, trusted advisors, and CPAs up at night. Peisner Johnson focuses its efforts on helping companies manage sales tax compliance, including sales tax return services, nexus studies/risk assessments, and getting registered properly, as well as, due diligence related to M&As, audit defense, research, automation, and tax recovery services. Parr lives in Dallas, and he and his wife of 32 years have 6 married children and 12 grandchildren. He enjoys golf, racquetball, ultimate frisbee, and a new favorite - pickleball. About Peisner Johnson: Peisner Johnson, founded in 1992, is a state and local tax consulting firm with a clear mission: Solve clients’ state tax problems. Because we focus exclusively on state and local taxes, we have developed a deep understanding of state tax issues. Our clients benefit from our extensive knowledge and experience and our client-first mentality. We have consulted with thousands of companies doing business across the United States and Canada in virtually every industry. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Peisner Johnson website at https://peisnerjohnson.com/ Check out Peisner Johnson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/peisnerjohnson/ Check out Jason Parr on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonparrpjco/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Unlocking the Power of Intellectual Property for Consultants and Coaches In the latest episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh delves into the critical role of intellectual property (IP) for consultants and coaches with Erin Austin, the founder of Think Beyond IP. This episode is a treasure trove of insights on how experts can transform their knowledge into scalable revenue streams by creating, protecting, and leveraging intellectual property assets. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience of speaking with over 2,000 leaders, Josh shares a free video resource that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound business strategies without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. Erin Austin, the guest of the episode, specializes in helping consultants and coaches leverage their expertise into scalable revenue streams through the creation, protection, and licensing of intellectual property. Erin shares her excitement about joining the conversation and provides an overview of her work. She explains that many experts start their careers by selling their time, but as they grow, they realize the limitations of this model. Erin emphasizes the need to decouple income from time by creating intellectual property assets. These assets, derived from their intellect and expertise, can be sold or licensed, allowing for greater profitability and scalability. Josh expresses interest in hearing about Erin's journey and the impact she has had on her clients. Erin shares that her background in corporate environments, where intellectual property was a daily focus, led her to recognize the untapped potential of IP for independent experts. She recounts working with learning and development professionals who initially provided one-on-one services but sought to scale their businesses. Erin also discusses her podcast, "Hourly to Exit," which focuses on transitioning from an unsustainable hourly business model to a scalable, profitable one. She invites listeners to visit her website, Think Beyond IP, where they can access a free resource outlining the "Audit, Protect, and Leverage" framework. About Erin Austin: Erin is a Corporate Attorney, Podcast Host, Founder of Think Beyond IP and Protect Your Expertise. She is a Harvard Law alum and seasoned contracts expert with over 30 years of legal experience. She offers 1:1 legal services to expert business owners with corporate clients and creates easy-to-understand guides and digital products for business owners who need help understanding how to use and protect their intellectual property. Erin is especially skilled at simplifying complex legal issues and jargon into simple, easyto-understand terms and explanations business owners can actually understand and use. About Think Beyond IP:   Legal Services tailored to protect and maximize the value of your ideas and helping B2B professional services firms identify, protect and leverage their valuable intellectual assets Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest     Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out Think Beyond IP website at https://www.thinkbeyondip.com/ Check out Think Beyond IP on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/think-beyond-ip?trk=affiliated-pages Check out Erin Austin on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinaustin/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Leadership Insights: Cultivating an Olympic Mindset for Business Success In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Lee Povey, a high-performance leadership coach who specializes in guiding founders, startups, and teams to develop an "Olympic mindset." This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and optimize their business performance. Below, we break down the key themes and actionable advice shared by Lee Povey, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners. Josh kicks off the episode by emphasizing the importance of networking and offers a valuable resource for business growth. He shares that he has had private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to identify the best sources of business growth. To help listeners, Josh provides a free video resource that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in their industry over the next 6 to 8 months, without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. Listeners are encouraged to visit his website, Up My Influence, to access this content. Lee Povey is introduced as a high-performance leadership coach with a unique background in athletics. He primarily works with startups experiencing rapid growth, helping them transition from the gritty early stages of business to a more structured and empowered leadership approach. Lee emphasizes the importance of letting go of the need to be the smartest person in the room, allowing team members to flourish and contribute to the company's success. About Lee Povey: Lee Povey is a high-performance leadership coach specializing in working with founders and start-ups. As a former elite cycling athlete and Olympic Development Program Coach for USA Cycling, Lee has a deep understanding of what it takes to lead at the highest levels. Through coaching hundreds of World, National, and Olympic champions, Lee has gained invaluable experience in developing World-Class leadership and people. He helps leaders and high-achievers understand how best to motivate, lead, give feedback, and empower their teams to incredible growth and performance. He breaks down the human experience in a relatable way, giving tips, skill sets, and valuable mindset insights, allowing us all to perform like Olympians while retaining a strong focus on happiness and longer-term fulfillment. He also runs men’s groups as a way to give back and help develop better fathers, husbands, friends, and leaders. About Lee Povey Coaching:   Lee Povey Coaching is dedicated to unlocking the highest potential of visionary leaders, empowering them to excel in creating, inspiring, and making a global impact. With two decades of experience coaching elite Entrepreneurs, World Champions, and Olympians, Lee Povey brings a wealth of expertise to help individuals and teams achieve remarkable success. Through cutting-edge psychological techniques and personalized coaching—encompassing 1:1 sessions, group coaching, workshops, and mentorship—Lee Povey Coaching supports leaders in building the next billion-dollar enterprise.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Lee Povey Coaching website at https://www.leepovey.com/ Check out Lee Povey Coaching on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/leepoveycoaching/about/ Check out Lee Povey on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/leepovey/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Navigating Burnout, Embracing Self-Care, and the Power of Play   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Laura Nguyen, an executive coach, marketing consultant, and founder of Solle Solutions. The episode delves into critical themes such as burnout, self-care, and the significance of play in both personal and professional settings. Laura shares her insights and experiences, offering valuable strategies for individuals and organizations to manage stress and enhance overall well-being. Laura Nguyen brings over 20 years of experience in digital marketing and has recently transitioned into coaching after experiencing burnout herself. Her journey led her to develop a coaching framework designed to help others navigate similar challenges. Laura's upcoming book, "Career Break Compass," aims to provide a structured approach to taking intentional time off and recovering from burnout. Burnout is a pressing issue, particularly among founders and business leaders, with nearly half reporting feelings of burnout, overwhelm, or anxiety, often considering exiting their organizations due to immense pressure. Laura introduces her four-piece model for self-care, which consists of Play, Pause, Plan, and Pursue. Each component plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preventing burnout. Play is essential for creativity and problem-solving, Pause involves regular check-ins and mindfulness, Plan focuses on setting and achieving goals, and Pursue encourages engaging in passions and new experiences. Laura also outlines eight steps to overcome fear and emphasizes the importance of building authentic relationships in business. As the episode wraps up, Laura invites listeners to visit her website for free resources and encourages everyone to prioritize their well-being and seek joy in their daily lives.   About Laura Nguyen: Laura Nguyen has nearly 20 years of experience in digital marketing, advertising, and eCommerce. She is an experienced growth-focused marketing executive with an extensive background in data-driven marketing, demand generation and branding for DTC and B2B Fortune 500 companies, private equity and private businesses. She has led high-performing teams to achieve organizational growth and market share dominance. As an advocate for diversity and inclusion, Laura led business resource groups at the corporate level. Laura received her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science at Truman State University, and her Master in Business Administration from Rochester Institute of Technology. About Solle Solutions: Solle Solutions provides consulting and fractional marketing leadership engagements. We begin with a comprehensive marketing opportunity assessment to understand the consumer and segmentation opportunities. We deliver strategic performance marketing recommendations to accelerate growth. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Solle Solutions website at https://sollesolutions.com/ Check out Solle Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/solle-solutions Check out Laura Nguyen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauran546/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Building Your Business Tribe: The Essential Role of Community in Entrepreneurship In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge sat down with Nick Berry, a seasoned entrepreneur and the host of "The Business Owners Journey" podcast. The conversation delved into Nick's extensive experience in entrepreneurship, his commitment to helping fellow business owners enhance their skills, and the critical role of community and mentorship in achieving success. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing valuable insights for aspiring and current business owners. Nick Berry is a serial entrepreneur who has co-founded and acquired numerous businesses over the years. His primary focus is on empowering business owners to excel in their ventures. During the conversation, Nick elaborates on the challenges business owners face, particularly the overwhelming number of tasks and distractions that can hinder their progress. He advocates for establishing a clear strategy that not only defines what entrepreneurs should focus on but also outlines actionable steps to achieve their goals. Nick highlights three key areas of focus for business owners: leadership development, strategic planning, and operational systems. A significant theme in the episode is the importance of community and mentorship for business owners. Nick emphasizes that entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey, and seeking support is vital. He encourages business owners to curate a support system that includes one-on-one guidance, peer communities, and intimate groups. Nick reflects on how these support systems have been pivotal in his own career and how they can significantly impact the growth of other entrepreneurs. By following the actionable advice and insights shared by Nick Berry, business owners can develop effective strategies, grow as leaders, and build supportive communities that drive their success. About Nick Berry: Nick Berry is an accomplished entrepreneur, CEO, mentor, and author, whose track record includes founding and/or acquiring several dozen companies since 2002. A great deal of Nick's two decades of experience as a business owner has been working with other business owners and equipping them with the skills to handle the challenges and uncertainty they face along their path. He’s started or acquired several dozen businesses, and in the process has earned secrets and knowledge that comes with it. He’s got experience with a variety of businesses and business partners, hundreds of employees, had several successful exits, and a few that never took off. He’s recurring revenue’s #1 fan, and his companies have been recognized for growth, culture, and client satisfaction. And it's been 100% bootstrapped. About Business Owner's Journey Podcast: The Business Owner’s Journey is a podcast for business owners who are driven to grow and improve and are looking for their next breakthrough ‘Aha!’ moment. I won’t sugarcoat it: The path of a business owner can be tough. It’s complex, uncertain, and always evolving. And it’s made harder if you try to figure it all out alone. But it can also be incredibly exciting and fulfilling, especially when you learn to prepare yourself for the challenges. We're here to shorten the learning curve for entrepreneurs and business owners by getting other experienced business owners to pull back the curtain and share their hard-earned lessons learned. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Fitness Revolution website at https://frnation.com/ Check out SEOContentSurge website at https://www.seocontentsurge.com/ Check out Fitness Consulting Group website at https://www.nickberry.info/companies/about-fitness-consulting-group Check out Nick Berry on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickberry4/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Building Bridges in a Remote World: Enhancing Communication with AI Coaching   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with James Lawrence, the CEO and co-founder of Happy. This platform is dedicated to improving organizational culture and communication within companies, particularly in the evolving landscape of hybrid and remote work environments. The discussion centers around the challenges of managing people effectively, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how AI can play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. James begins by sharing his extensive experience as a CEO over the past 30 years, noting that most organizational challenges stem from people-related issues. He explains that his recent focus has been on developing technology that helps companies accelerate their people management processes at scale. Reflecting on his early leadership experiences, James acknowledges the difficulties he faced in effectively leading teams and recognizes that larger organizations often struggle even more with training and managing personnel. Josh and James discuss the critical need for a positive workplace culture, whether in-person or virtual. They agree that fostering a sense of value among team members is essential for organizational success. James elaborates on how the Happy platform addresses these needs by providing AI-enhanced coaching tailored to individual employees. This coaching is integrated into the tools that employees use daily, such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, making it easily accessible and relevant. About James Lawrence: With more than 25 years of being a CEO and founder, James Lawrence loves to share his insights on leadership, organizational culture and the intersection of technology in the workplace. James believes the cornerstone of every successful organization is its people. His mission is to help people love their work and get connected with their teams because, in his words, "when people work better, we all win, together.” James is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for cultivating great workplaces and empowering people. At 48, he's the co-founder and CEO of Happy Companies, a startup that uses technology to deliver AI-enhanced Coaching. Happy revolutionize the way organizations encourage improved communication, collaboration and engagement with their employees at scale. Happy delivers plug-and-play AI-enhanced Coaching via tools like Slack, Gmail, Zoom and Teams. Happy believes that effective manager and employee relationships are key to creating organizations that are healthy, productive, and profitable. His journey to leadership wasn't straightforward. Early in his career, James learned the hard way that authority doesn't come from a title; it comes from genuinely understanding and connecting with your team. With a background of launching four startups, two auto racing championships under his belt and previous leadership roles as the CEO of Power Automedia and Chairman of the Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association (SEMA), James brings a unique blend of speed and innovation to the business world. James places a strong emphasis on nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of leaders, always with an eye toward meaningful work. James is married to his amazing wife Melissa and is father to three kids – Bradley, Jordan and Taylor. When he's not leading his team or spending time with his family, James is likely coaching youth football, driving a race car faster than 200 mph, learning to fly, or diving into one of his favorite books, which range from "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" to "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People About Happy Companies: Happy is dedicated to empowering people—to improve how every team works together. We help everyone become the best version of themselves. Happy is a SAAS Tech Startup with a proprietary platform designed to enhance employee engagement and boost organizational performance in the #future of work. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Happy Companies website at https://happycompanies.com/ Check out Happy Companies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/happycompanies Check out James Lawrence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesflawrence Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Becoming a Destination Employer: Attracting, Recruiting, and Retaining Talent   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge sat down with Gerry Gadoury, the founder and managing director of Red Beard Solutions and author of "Destination Employer." The conversation delved into the intricacies of leadership, talent acquisition, and the concept of becoming a "destination employer." This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for business leaders looking to attract, recruit, and retain top talent. Josh Elledge introduces the episode by highlighting the importance of effective leadership and talent acquisition, sharing his own experiences and resources available at upmyinfluence.com. Gerry Gadoury, a former United States Marine Corps sergeant, transitioned into the business world nearly 30 years ago. His journey began as a technical recruiter and evolved into management consulting, where he developed the "Destination Employer" methodology. This approach focuses on helping businesses attract, recruit, and retain top talent, making them desirable places to work. Gerry emphasizes that leadership is a continuous journey rather than a destination. Effective leadership requires ongoing development and self-awareness. One of the first steps in becoming an effective leader is to find a leadership style that resonates with you. Gerry introduces the concept of a "candidate attraction engine," crucial for attracting top talent despite constraints. The three phases of the Destination Employer Methodology—Attraction, Recruitment, and Retention—are essential for building a reputation as a company where professionals can significantly advance their careers. For more resources and to connect with Gerry Gadoury, visit destinationemployer.seo. To stay updated with Josh Elledge and "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," visit upmyinfluence.com and subscribe to the podcast for daily inspiration and motivation. About Gerry Gadoury:   Gerry Gadoury is a former Marine Sergeant who has spent the last 20 years in the Technology Professional Services Industry. In that time, he has been a recruiter, salesperson, manager, consultant, speaker, trainer, executive, and business owner. Through it all his passion has been building and leading highly effective, international technology, sales, and recruitment teams. Utilizing that experience, he designed the Destination Employer methodology to empower Start-Up and early-stage companies to compete with, and succeed against, established industry leaders. Complementing the Destination Employer methodology, Mr. Gadoury created the industry’s first AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud, & Tech focused Recruitment & Retention as a Service (RRaaS) program to assist Government Agency and Private industry partners to save money while building the technology teams they need to succeed in their vital missions.   About RedBeard Solutions:   RedBeard Solutions is a cyber security and information technology professional services firm that helps companies and government agencies master their technical environments and crush their projects. Specializes in robust cybersecurity & technology professional services and custom talent solutions to maximize your team’s effectiveness. With our expertise and access to top talent, we deliver tailored solutions for your organization’s unique needs. Trust us to fortify your systems in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest     Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out RedBeard Solutions website at https://redbeardsol.com/ Check out RedBeard Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/redbeard-solutions Check out Gerry Gadoury on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrygadoury Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.    

Transforming the Kitchen and Wardrobe Manufacturing Industry In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sina Meshkani, the founder of Sinaholz. Sinaholz is a pioneering company that offers configurator software designed to streamline the design and production processes for kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers. This episode delves into the innovative solutions provided by Sinaholz, the importance of customization, and the role of 3D visualization in the industry, especially in the wake of changing consumer behaviors post-pandemic. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience, having spoken with over 2,000 industry leaders, Josh shares insights on achieving 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. He promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines these strategies that have helped him generate significant revenue over the years. As the conversation shifts to Sina, Josh expresses excitement about his work and the elegant platform his company has developed. Sina, with 24 years of experience in kitchen and wardrobe manufacturing, explains his mission to share his expertise with other businesses. He describes how his company’s configurator software automates the entire process from sales to production, allowing for customization that meets the demands of today’s market. Josh prompts Sina to elaborate on the elements of his platform, encouraging him to explain it in a way that resonates with listeners who may not be able to visualize the technology. Sina uses a relatable analogy, asking listeners to imagine a kitchen manufacturer receiving a request for a customized kitchen design. He explains that customers often gather ideas from various sources and expect a comprehensive plan that includes 3D visualizations, quotations, and shop drawings. Sinaholz’s configurator software addresses this need by providing a seamless environment for designing, estimating, and visualizing projects, ultimately sending the finalized designs to the factory. Josh highlights that Sinaholz primarily serves the B2B sector, working with kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers rather than individual consumers. Sina confirms this, noting that while they can connect individual clients with suppliers, their main focus is on supporting businesses in the industry. About Sina Meshkani: Sina Meshkani has been an entrepreneur for more than Twenty years. Initially, he built kitchen cabinets in an 80 m2 workshop with elementary tools. He and his team successfully established themselves in the market by using innovative designs and 3D rendering in interior design for the first time in their local market. He is skilled in Cisco networking and coding applications. His goal is to bring joy, happiness and a new lifestyle into other people’s homes. To achieve this, he has done his best to build a happy, trustworthy and transcendent organization by learning new skills and training and coaching his team. When he’s not glued to his computer, he spends his free time sketching, programming, and reading books. About Sinaholz: With 20 years of experience in the panel industry, the company is a pioneer in its field. Its innovative use of Industry 4.0-based software (imos) distinguishes it from competitors, enabling it to stay ahead of the curve. The company values collaboration and resource sharing, viewing its clients and partners as essential collaborators in the pursuit of success. The mission is to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses unique needs. Driven by innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, the company focuses not only on the work itself but also on fostering strong relationships built on communication and trust. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Sinaholz website at https://sinaholz.com/ Check out Sinaholz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinaholz-gmbh/ Check out Sina Meshkani on LinkedIn at https://de.linkedin.com/in/sina-meshkani Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Escaping Founder-Led Sales In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Corey Quinn, an expert in helping agency founders transition away from founder-led sales. This episode delves into the challenges faced by agency founders, the importance of specialization, and actionable insights from Corey’s book, "Anyone Not Everyone." Corey Quinn, with 17 years of experience in the agency space, shares his journey from a sales role focused on PPC and SEO to becoming the Chief Marketing Officer for a nine-figure agency. His experiences and insights culminated in his book, which aims to help agency founders escape the founder-led sales trap. Corey identifies three primary reasons why agency founders struggle to move away from founder-led sales: lack of focus, watered-down positioning, and inadequate sales systems. Many founders start as generalists, offering services to a wide range of clients, which complicates scaling. Corey emphasizes the need for agency founders to specialize in a specific vertical market, allowing them to communicate their value more effectively and attract clients who resonate with their expertise. He provides actionable advice such as identifying core competencies, narrowing the target audience, and developing a consistent sales process. Additionally, Corey advises clarifying the value proposition, educating the audience, and implementing a CRM system to track leads and manage the sales pipeline. Corey outlines a three-month program designed to guide founders from being generalists to becoming deep specialists. The program includes identifying the right vertical market, positioning the agency, and attracting new clients. Founders learn to assess their strengths, evaluate market demand, and align with their passion. They are also equipped with strategies to effectively market their specialized services and generate leads. As the conversation wraps up, Josh encourages listeners to take action and access a free audiobook of "Anyone Not Everyone" on Corey’s website. By following the actionable advice and insights shared in this episode, agency founders can overcome the challenges of founder-led sales and build a sustainable, scalable business. About Corey Quinn: Corey has 15 years of in-house agency experience, including as Scorpion's CMO, where he helped grow revenue from $20M to $150M in 6 years. He just published his bestselling book: "Anyone, Not Everyone: a Proven System for Agencies to Escape Founder-Led Sales." Today, he helps digital agency founders scale revenue and profits with Deep Specialization.   About Corey Quinn, Inc.: We help agency owners break the cycle of flat sales and high customer churn by becoming a vertical market specialist. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Corey Quinn,Inc. website at https://www.coreyquinn.com/ Check out Corey Quinn,Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/corey-quinn-inc/ Check out Corey Quinn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyquinn Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

The Intersection of Podcasting and Self-Improvement In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kevin Palmieri, the founder of Next Level University. Kevin shares his journey into podcasting, the challenges faced by new podcasters, and strategies for building a successful business model around a podcast. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and expert insights for aspiring podcasters and self-improvement enthusiasts. Kevin's fascination with podcasts began as a listener. A pivotal moment during a YouTube interview made him realize that podcasting could be a viable career path. This epiphany led him to leave his job in 2018 and pursue podcasting full-time. Kevin describes his audience as "dream chasers"—emotionally driven individuals seeking fulfillment in various aspects of their lives, from relationships to career success. Next Level University offers a range of services to support individuals on their self-improvement journeys, including one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and live events, catering to a diverse audience. Josh and Kevin discuss the phenomenon of "pod fade," where many new podcasters give up before reaching their potential. Kevin emphasizes the importance of commitment and understanding the effort required to succeed in podcasting. He advises aspiring podcasters to identify their unique expertise and create a clear path for their listeners to engage further. By focusing on delivering value and understanding their audience's needs, aspiring podcasters can navigate the challenges of the industry and create a lasting impact. About Kevin Palmieri: He is the CFO, Founder, and Co-Host of Next Level University, a globally recognized Top 100 Self-Improvement Podcast with over 1,100 episodes and more than 675,000 listens across 140 countries. While many encounter rock bottom, he discovered that rock bottom had a basement. In his mid-20s, he seemed to have it all—a beautiful girlfriend, a high-paying job, a sports car, and his dream body—yet he found himself sitting on the edge of a bed, contemplating suicide. Following this critical moment, he committed fully to holistic self-improvement, determined to overcome his anxiety and depression and to finally live the life he had always envisioned. Years later, he now hosts a podcast that influences hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. He has transformed the podcast into a multi six-figure business and has recorded well over 1,000 episodes. Additionally, he has delivered hundreds of speeches, trainings, and coaching calls to people across the globe. The primary change was within himself. By focusing on learning what he did not know (and unlearning much of what he had), his life began to transform. He is passionate about discussing topics such as Consistency, Commitment, Habits, Mindset, Confidence, Fear, Relationships, Limiting Beliefs, and more. He advocates for a heart-driven but no-nonsense approach to holistic self-improvement and is eager to teach others about what it truly takes to reach the next level. About Next Level University: At Next Level University, we are committed to helping you get to the next level of your life, love, health, and wealth. No matter where you are in life, there is always a next level. Through podcast episodes, weekly meetups and one-on-one and group coaching, we share tips, strategies, and lessons we’ve learned along the way to help you get to the next level! Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Next Level University website at https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ Check out Next Level University on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-university/ Check out Kevin Palmieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Unlocking Business Acquisitions and Investment Strategies In a recent podcast episode, host Josh delves into the intricate world of business acquisitions and investment strategies with Matt Bodnar, the founder and managing partner of Eidolon Capital. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the dynamics of buying and investing in businesses, especially in the context of the impending retirement of baby boomers. Here, we break down the key themes and actionable advice shared by Matt Bodnar, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Matt Bodnar, based in Nashville, Tennessee, explains his role at Eidolon Capital, where he focuses on buying and investing in businesses globally. He highlights a significant trend in the market: the impending retirement of approximately 70 million baby boomers over the next decade, which will lead to a substantial transfer of business ownership. Around 12 million businesses, valued at about $10 trillion, will need to change hands, creating a unique opportunity for investors. Matt’s investment philosophy centers around acquiring businesses with a long-term perspective, aiming to hold onto businesses indefinitely and providing a stable and supportive environment for the companies they acquire. Josh also highlights Matt’s successful podcast, "The Science of Success," where he has interviewed numerous thought leaders, including Robert Cialdini, Brené Brown, and Adam Grant. Matt shares that his interest in psychology and human behavior has driven his podcasting journey, as he seeks to understand the underlying principles that govern business interactions and decision-making. Reflecting on his extensive interviews, Matt emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamental practices such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining emotional well-being. He also discusses the significance of networking and the concept of "the strength of weak ties," explaining that the most valuable connections often come from acquaintances or individuals on the periphery of one’s network. About Matt Bodnar: He is the Founder and Managing Partner of Eidolon Capital and serves as the major investor and Chairman of Ozark River Manufacturing, Fresh Technology, Inc., Highland Industrial Staffing, and Tennessee Rack. Additionally, he is a Managing Partner at his family office, Bodnar Investment Group. In 2018, he was named to Forbes' “30 Under 30,” and he is currently a partner in several Inc. “Fastest Growing Companies in America,” including Fresh Technology, Inc. and Tazikis, Inc. About Eidolon Capital: Eidolon Capital’s investments span a range of industries including software, manufacturing, industrial distribution, information technology, staffing, consumer products, real estate, and medical equipment. The firm focuses on lower middle-market acquisitions with EBITDA ranging from $2 million to $10 million. Although Eidolon is industry agnostic, it specializes in control acquisitions in services, technology, distribution, and manufacturing. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Eidolon Capital website at https://eidoloncapital.com/ Check out Eidolon Capital on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/eidolon-capital/ Check out Matt Bodnar website at https://mattbodnar.com/ Check out Matt Bodnar on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbodnar/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

The Essential Benefits of Outsourcing Marketing Functions In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Stevie Brown, CEO of The Change Starter, a company specializing in outsourced marketing for SMEs. Stevie discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face in managing marketing efforts and the significant advantages of outsourcing these functions to expert teams. She emphasizes her commitment to bringing corporate-level marketing expertise to smaller businesses, helping them clarify their goals and target audience, and implementing bespoke marketing strategies. Stevie and Josh delve into the common misconception that entrepreneurs must manage all aspects of their business, including marketing. Stevie argues that as businesses grow, it becomes crucial to recognize one's limitations and seek external expertise. She highlights the importance of long-term partnerships in marketing, noting that effective marketing is a continuous process requiring ongoing attention and adaptation. Stevie shares insights into the transformative journey clients experience when they engage with The Change Starter, often finding themselves liberated to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives as they trust the marketing team and see results. Stevie introduces her book, "The Care Factor Fix," which explores the disconnect between business owners and marketing providers. She outlines the CARE framework—Commitment, Accountability, Realism, and Engagement—as essential pillars for fostering successful relationships. By focusing on these pillars, businesses can cultivate strong, long-term partnerships with their marketing providers, enhancing the effectiveness of marketing efforts and fostering a collaborative environment. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of thoughtful leadership and leveraging external expertise to drive growth, encouraging listeners to reflect on their marketing practices and implement the CARE framework for better results. About Stevie Brown: Stevie V. Brown is a 20-year marketing industry veteran, author of The CARE Factor Fix™ How to Finally Get Results from Marketing” and CEO of The Change Starter®; a boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. With her infectious energy, eccentric British humour, and honest, direct approach, Stevie brings a refreshing sense of realism to any audience ready to learn and be challenged. About The Change Starter®: A boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Change Starter® website at https://www.thechangestarter.com/ Check out The Change Starter® on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/company/thechangestarter Check out Stevie Brown on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevievbrown-outsourced-marketing Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

The Power of Peer Advisory Groups: Transforming CEOs into Great Leaders In a recent episode of *The Thoughtful Entrepreneur*, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Jim Schleckser, the CEO and managing partner of The CEO Project. Schleckser, an expert in creating peer advisory groups for CEOs and author of the book "Great CEOs Are Lazy," shares his profound insights on the unique challenges faced by CEOs, the importance of effective leadership, and strategies for fostering a high-performing team. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide CEOs and aspiring leaders. Schleckser introduces the concept of The CEO Project, emphasizing that CEOs are not fully formed leaders upon taking their roles. Instead, they must continuously work on their development. The CEO Project focuses on building peer groups—mastermind groups—composed of CEOs with similar business sizes and complexities. These groups are paired with experienced CEO advisors who guide them in making critical business decisions. Key takeaways include the necessity for continuous development, the value of peer groups for sharing experiences, and the importance of having seasoned advisors to navigate complex business decisions. A central theme of the discussion is the idea of the "kink in the hose," representing the point of constraint in a business that hinders growth. Schleckser explains that every business has a point of constraint that controls its overall performance. Identifying and addressing this kink is crucial for CEOs to unlock their company's potential. He also highlights the significance of having A+ players within an organization, stressing that attracting such talent is a personal responsibility of the CEO. By focusing on identifying constraints, attracting top talent, and leveraging peer advisory groups, CEOs can enhance their effectiveness and drive their organizations toward success. About Jim Schleckser: Jim has guided hundreds of CEOs to profound business and profit growth across multiple industries. Leaders wanting to grow to the next level seek his insights into CEO effectiveness. Jim offers a distinctive CEO advisory program that combines peer group work sessions with one-on-one advisory sessions, all led by former CEOs. These curated advisory boards provide CEOs with rare, unbiased, and valuable guidance He created the "Lazy CEO" concept, emphasizing focused efforts, efficient delegation, and time management to drive business change and growth. The creative tools to identify your business constraints and the high-leverage roles of the leader are learnable and teachable to your team. By providing a group of High Caliber Peers, an Experienced Advisory group with decades of experience, and a Comprehensive Approach, the CEO Advisory Group Framework is a formula for success! About The CEO Project: The CEO Project is a business advisory group for experienced CEOs seeking challenge and collaboration from peer CEOs. We guide hundreds of high-performing CEOs, many in the Inc. 500 / 5000 and recognized as E&Y Entrepreneurs of the Year, through a disciplined approach to tackle the most difficult issues that delivers breakthrough thinking to resolve constraints, drive growth, and improves critical decisions. Your experience is guided by Advisors who are former CEOs of scaled organizations. They follow an efficient, disciplined approach to achieving strategic clarity, identifying critical points of constraints, and removing those constraints. Many of our CEOs have been members for over five years with financial performance 2 to 3X their peers and have integrated the The CEO Project process and tools as a core part of their leadership and management system. If you are a CEO who is driven to achieve profitable growth for your company while raising your own level of performance, contact us to learn more: www.incceoproject.com Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The CEO Project website at https://theceoproject.com/ Check out The CEO Project on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/theceoproject Check out Jim Schleckser on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimschleckser/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Navigating the Evolving Tech Landscape In a recent episode of the podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Justin Fortier, the founder and CEO of FYC Labs. This development and creative agency specializes in building web applications, mobile applications, and websites. The discussion delves into the evolution of the software development industry over the past 11 years, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), and best practices for collaborating with tech vendors. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Justin, providing a comprehensive guide for businesses and entrepreneurs navigating the tech landscape. Reflecting on the past decade, Justin acknowledges that while many companies have struggled to keep pace, FYC Labs has differentiated itself through a commitment to innovation. Key points include embracing emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, and creating a consortium to leverage collective buying power and retain talent. Justin shares an anecdote from his time in graduate school, where he worked in a bar that expanded into multiple restaurants, teaching him the value of creating a consortium of businesses to leverage collective buying power and retain talent. Justin emphasizes the importance of treating vendors as partners rather than mere transactional relationships. Key advice includes clearly defining requirements and expectations, investing time in this process, and maintaining ongoing communication and collaboration. At FYC Labs, all team members have technical backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and smooth project execution. As the episode concludes, Justin invites listeners to explore opportunities for collaboration with FYC Labs and the broader Fractal Group, which encompasses various entrepreneurial ventures and investments. About Justin Fortier: Justin Fortier is a tech entrepreneur and founder of multiple successful companies in California. As CEO/CTO of FYC Labs, he successfully led the company to acquisition in 2020. The boutique design agency grew internationally, capturing clients such as Remax, National University, Budweiser, and Pepsi Co., and has been recognized on several top lists for Web Design and Development. Justin has been named as finalist for CEO of the year twice by the San Diego Business Journal and was recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in San Diego by San Diego Daily Transcript. In addition, he holds top-level Technical/Business advisory positions at 11.2 Ventures, Blush Design Inc, Edvo, Aura Finance, and Intraratio Corp. He has held technical executive roles for blockchain innovators – XYO Network, ecommerce game changer – For Days, and manufacturing technology SaaS – Intraratio Corp. Justin volunteers his time helping other entrepreneurs and small business owners through various organizations such as San Diego Small Business Advisory Board, Sierra College, Folsom Chamber of Commerce, and the Granite City Foundation Justin is a father of two and enjoys fishing, hiking, and playing hockey Founder and CEO/CTO of FYC Labs, Justin Fortier, has been a guest on similar podcasts where his discussions have garnered positive feedback and engagement from audiences. Justin has also been showcased on Fox Business News twice in the last year. Moreover, his dedication and success have earned him a finalist spot in the "40 under 40" Next Top Business Leaders and acknowledgment as the 2024 Mentor of the Year honoree by San Diego Business Journal. FYC Labs has added another award to the growing collection- a coveted spot on the esteemed 2023 Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America. Recently, FYC Labs has also been recognized as a leading IT Services provider in the field of Artificial Intelligence by Inc. Magazine’s Power Partners list. About FYC Labs: FYC Labs has been a top provider of innovative solutions for over a decade. We specialize in engineering and cutting-edge UI/UX web and product design, and provide organizations strategic support. We strive to exceed expectations by understanding your unique needs and delivering exceptional results. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out FYC Labs website at https://fyclabs.com/ Check out FYC Labs on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fyc-labs Check out Justin Fortier on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinffortier Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Building Trust in B2B Marketing In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Nikhil Sai, the founder and CEO of Funnel Media. Nikhil shared his inspiring journey from being a broke dropout in India to building a successful marketing agency. He emphasized the importance of empathy and relationship-building in sales, and provided valuable insights into effective B2B marketing strategies. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you enhance your marketing and sales efforts. Nikhil Sai's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in a small town in India, he faced significant challenges, including language barriers and a lack of resources. Despite these obstacles, he was determined to succeed. By the age of 19, he had dropped out of school and set out to build a marketing agency. Within two years, he successfully established a million-dollar business, leveraging online strategies to attract high-ticket clients. At the core of Nikhil's approach is his **AI Funneling System**, which combines various tools and techniques to replicate the effects of personal referrals in an online environment. Nikhil advocates for a robust content creation strategy to effectively connect with potential clients. Here’s how you can implement this: Identify audience problems through research and use the same language your clients use to describe their problems. Provide value-driven content that offers solutions and insights, demonstrating your business's expertise through detailed and actionable content. Engage in response marketing by articulating the outcomes you can help clients achieve and maintaining a consistent presence across various platforms to build familiarity and trust. By implementing the strategies and insights shared by Nikhil Sai, businesses can enhance their marketing and sales efforts, build trust with potential clients, and achieve sustainable growth. About Nikhil Sai: Nikhil Sai's journey in the entrepreneurial world is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a 19-year-old broke college dropout, Nikhil defied the odds and established a $1 million marketing agency within just two years. His accomplishments are even more astounding considering he's recognized as the world's youngest recipient of the hundred million dollar award in his field. He has won multiple 2 comma club awards from the Founder of ClickFunnels, Russell Brunson . He also has the privilege to generating over half a billion dollars in verified client results, having worked with Inc 500 companies, Forbes Council Members and various other high ticket coaches and real estate companies. About Funneling Media: This platform provides 'done-for-you' marketing services. It is tailored for businesses already generating over a million dollars in revenue, aiming to boost their marketing strategies further. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Funneling Media website at https://funnelingmedia.com/ Check out Funneling Media on LinkedIn at https://in.linkedin.com/company/funnelingmedia Check out Nikhil Sai on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikhilsai   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Sales Coaching Insights: A Comprehensive Guide In this insightful episode of the podcast, the host welcomes Phil Whitebloom, a seasoned sales coach and the founder of Been There Consulting Services. With over 40 years of experience in sales and consulting, Phil shares his expertise on the importance of effective sales strategies and personalized coaching for business growth. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a detailed guide for listeners looking to enhance their sales practices. Phil addresses a common misconception among founders and entrepreneurs: the belief that a great product will naturally attract customers. He references the famous line from the movie "Field of Dreams," stating that this mindset is unrealistic in the business world. Many intelligent and successful individuals often overlook the necessity of a solid sales strategy, assuming that their product's quality alone will drive sales. Phil emphasizes that without a well-structured sales organization and effective sales practices, even the best products can fail to gain traction in the market. Phil distinguishes between sales coaching and traditional sales training. While many sales training programs provide valuable information, they often lack the personalized approach that coaching offers. Effective coaching involves understanding the unique challenges faced by each client and working collaboratively to develop strategies that yield immediate results. Phil shares a success story from his recent coaching experience, where a client transformed a $5,000 opportunity into a $150,000 sale within just six weeks, illustrating the potential impact of personalized coaching on sales performance. About Phil Whitebloom: Phil Whitebloom is a seasoned sales expert with over 40 years in sales, management, and executive roles. His career highlights include a 23-year tenure at Sony, where he advanced from salesperson to Vice President of Sales for Government, Corporate, and Education sectors, earning the prestigious Samurai Award twice. Phil has led sales teams across North and Latin America and held VP roles in businesses across the U.S., France, and Israel. His impressive client base includes the White House, major broadcasters, universities, and Fortune 500 companies, generating over $1.5 billion in career sales. Post-retirement, Phil founded BeenThere Consulting Services, LLC, focusing on sales coaching and motivational speaking. He also co-hosts the BeenThere/SoldThat Podcast and is authoring “Handling Objections – Clues for Closing the Sale.” Phil is actively involved in community service, serving as a guest lecturer, board member of ASPIE, and former president of his religious organization and the Howard Astronomical League. His personal interests include astronomy, nature photography, and family life with his spouse, three children, two grandchildren, and a dog. About BeenThere Consulting Services: BeenThere Consulting Services is founded on the principle of helping others be successful in selling, leadership, managing others, and effective communications. Decades of experience working with thousands of people in a vast number of businesses and organizations have provided us with learning experiences we share with others, so they can benefit from the stories and skill set development provided by us and our subject matter expert partners. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out BeenThere Consulting Services website at https://beentherecs.com/ Check out BeenThere Consulting Services on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/beenthere-consulting-services-llc Check out Phil Whitebloom on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/philwhitebloom Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering Productization for B2B Service Providers In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Eisha Armstrong, the executive chairman and co-founder of Victorious, and an accomplished author of several influential books, including "Productize," "Fearless," and the forthcoming "Commercialize." The episode delves into the transformative concept of productization, particularly for B2B service providers such as consultants, agencies, and coaches. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Eisha, providing a comprehensive guide for professionals looking to embrace productization. Productization is the process of transforming services into standardized, sellable products. For B2B service providers, this means packaging their expertise and intellectual property into offerings that can be scaled and sold repeatedly, rather than trading time for money. Eisha emphasizes that productization is crucial for professionals who often find themselves constrained by the limitations of time-based billing. By shifting to a product-based model, these individuals can scale their businesses, improve profit margins, and create predictable revenue streams. One of the most critical steps in productization is ensuring that there is a demand for your product. Eisha highlights the importance of identifying an "urgent and expensive customer problem" that your product can solve. If your product idea cannot clearly articulate this problem, it may not be viable. Transitioning to a productized model can be challenging for B2B service providers. Some common obstacles include resistance to change, difficulty in packaging services, and fear of losing the personal touch. Eisha reassures listeners that while the transition may be daunting, the long-term benefits of productization far outweigh the initial hurdles. She advises starting small, educating clients, and investing in customer success. Additionally, Eisha discusses the recent surge in interest in productization due to advancements in generative AI, which can automate tasks and provide data-driven insights. She encourages service providers to explore how AI can be integrated into their productization strategies to stay competitive. As the conversation wraps up, Eisha shares details about her forthcoming book, "Commercialize," set to be released in September, which addresses the challenges entrepreneurs face when bringing new products to market. About Eisha Armstrong: Eisha Armstrong is the Co-Founder and Executive Chairman of Vecteris, dedicated to helping B2B companies transform their services into tangible products. With over 25 years of experience in launching data and information service businesses, Eisha has a proven track record of leading global teams to success. As an influential business leader, Eisha shares her expertise by advising executives on building cultures that foster product innovation. She authored the best-selling book Productize: The Ultimate Guide to Turning Professional Services into Products and Fearless: How to Transform a Services Culture and Successfully Productize. Eisha extends her impact beyond Vecteris, serving on Advisory Boards for AMEND Consulting and Gild Collective. She has also contributed to organizations such as Women Helping Women, Cincinnati Early Centers, and Aviatra Accelerators. Committed to empowering women in investing, she is a Limited Partner in Next Wave Impact, aligning her investments with both social impact and financial return. An accomplished speaker, Eisha has addressed audiences at over 100 leadership development and executive education sessions globally. Her insights have been featured in esteemed publications such as The Financial Times and The Washington Post, and she is a sought-after guest on podcasts focusing on product management and innovation. Eisha's educational background includes an MBA from the Harvard Business School and a Bachelor of Arts in Women’s Studies and Economics from the University of Kansas. Beyond the boardroom, she is a certified yoga teacher, firmly believing that teaching yoga enhances her executive acumen. Based in Cincinnati with her family, she has a passion for travel and the outdoors. In 2022, she summited Mt. Kilimanjaro alongside her 16-year-old son. About Vecteris: Vecteris' solutions help B2B professional services firms develop and commercialize productized offerings. Organizations like CBRE, Black & Veatch, InfoTrust, Ontada, and Euromonitor International use Vecteris' innovative productization solution to grow revenue and transform their organizations. Our mission is to help organizations build forward-looking products and cultures to positively impact our world. Vecteris is a WBENC-Certified Women's Business Enterprise. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Vecteris

Understanding the Importance and Benefits of Team Dynamics In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh explores the complexities of team dynamics with Karen Wright Gordon, the CEO of Simpli5. This episode is a goldmine of insights for leaders and managers aiming to boost teamwork and collaboration within their organizations. Karen discusses the significance of understanding individual work preferences and how this knowledge can revolutionize team performance. Here, we distill the key takeaways from the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to help you implement these strategies in your own organization. Five Dynamics is a company dedicated to enhancing organizational teamwork through a unique assessment methodology. Their core tool is a three-minute assessment designed to identify how individuals prefer to work, learn, and collaborate. This assessment, which took a decade to develop, reveals each person's most efficient neural pathways, highlighting their strengths and areas where they may struggle. Leaders can use this information to tailor their management styles to better suit their teams, thereby enhancing overall performance. Josh raises an essential question about the importance of understanding team dynamics amidst the myriad responsibilities leaders face. Karen emphasizes that this understanding can significantly accelerate team performance. By understanding how new team members will fit into existing dynamics, leaders can avoid lengthy adjustment periods, establish a common language for discussing team dynamics, and reduce conflicts arising from different energy levels and work styles. This shared understanding leads to enhanced communication, minimized conflicts, and improved collective performance. About Karen Wright Gordon: Karen Gordon is the President and CEO of Simpli5, a technology utilized by Fortune 500 companies that analyzes teams’ work styles and their affinity for different phases of a project cycle to improve team collaboration, satisfaction, and results. A serial entrepreneur who loves strategy and execution, Karen finds fun in solving big problems and making deals work. Throughout her career, Karen has dedicated herself to transforming workplace cultures through the power of collaboration and team performance. Karen has worked with a who's who of businesses, including transformational partnerships with Nortel Networks, Humana, AT&T Wireless, and LinkedIn. In 2000, shortly after founding GTCI, she secured a significant deal with AT&T Wireless to develop and deliver a course about 3G wireless technology, training over 2,000 employees nationwide. Nortel Networks was GTCI's biggest customer, allowing Karen to lead their outsourced documentation program globally. Her strategic insight and resilience led to a significant win against larger competitors. Humana stands out as a pivotal client. Their CEO, Mike McCallister, recognized the potential of the 5 Dynamics model after Karen's first presentation. LinkedIn remains a fantastic partner, utilizing Simpli5's model extensively and supporting the company’s growth. A recognized leader and influencer, Karen's accolades include being a two-time Inc. 500 Honoree, an Ernst and Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist, and a notable spotlight in the Dallas Top 25. Her expertise has been featured in leading publications such as SWAAY, The CEO Magazine, Business News Daily, Huffington Post, HR Dive, and Entrepreneur. One of her career highlights is her TEDx UT Austin presentation on "The Myth of Difficult People," which has further cemented her status as a thought leader in understanding and navigating complex human dynamics in the workplace.   About Simpli5 by 5 Dynamics:   5 Dynamics isn’t just a one and done assessment; it is a common language that enables individuals to better understand themselves and those with which they work and interact. By recognizing the different perspectives each person brings to the table, friction points are minimized and productivity is accelerated. Our methodology opens the door to greater understanding and our Simpli5 platform enables continuous application in your day-to-day life. If you're looking for a tool that is directly applicable to the work at hand and can be integrated into the core of your company’s culture, 5 Dynamics is for you. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Simpli5 website at https://www.simpli5.com/ Check out Simpli5 on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/5-dynamics/about/ Check out Karen Wright Gordon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-wright-gordon-1937a66/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Ar

Fostering Meaningful Connections and Effective Leadership In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Andrew Horn, the co-founder and CEO of Tribute, and the founder of the Institute for Relational Leadership. The discussion delves into Andrew's innovative work in enhancing human connections and leadership effectiveness through his two ventures. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable insights from the episode, providing valuable guidance for listeners and readers alike. Andrew Horn shares a deeply personal story that inspired the creation of Tribute. On his 27th birthday, his partner surprised him with a video compilation featuring heartfelt messages from 20 of his closest friends and family. This emotional gift left a lasting impression on Andrew, highlighting the profound impact of meaningful gestures. However, he quickly realized the challenges involved in creating such videos, which often required extensive coordination and technical skills. This realization led to the founding of Tribute, a platform designed to simplify the process of creating and sharing impactful video montages. Tribute has facilitated the creation of over 7 million tribute videos worldwide, with 82% of recipients reporting "tears of joy" when watching their tribute videos. In addition to Tribute, Andrew founded the Institute for Relational Leadership, which provides training and frameworks for leaders to navigate difficult conversations and build collaborative teams. Effective leadership hinges on interpersonal dynamics and communication, and the Institute aims to equip leaders with the tools and language necessary to foster thriving relationships within their teams. The Institute has developed a five-step framework designed to help leaders engage constructively with conflict and foster collaboration. Andrew emphasizes the importance of objectivity in communication and offers practical advice for leaders, including active listening, asking open-ended questions, and maintaining composure under pressure. About Andrew Horn: Andrew Horn is an entrepreneur, speaker and leadership coach who Forbes recently called “Dale Carnegie for the digital age.” He built his last company Tribute.co to 8-figures, millions of users and landed at #256 on the INC500 before stepping down to focus on coaching and growing IRL - the Institute for Relational Leadership. Andrew spends most of his time helping high-impact entrepreneurs and executives to master a relationship-centric path to success, fulfillment and leadership excellence. He frequently speaks for organizations like Google, The Cleveland Clinic and he’s even been featured on the homepage of TED.com. He's on a mission to create art that reminds him how he wants to live and his creations revolve around three core pillars; radical authenticity, personal integrity and relational mastery.   About Tribute: Tribute makes it easy to create and gift a love-filled group video montage. Tribute was recently #256 on the INC500 list of fastest growing companies in America. We have delivered 6,000,000+ Tributes since launching.   About the Institute for Relational Leadership:   We are a boutique consulting firm that helps people work better, together. From unicorn startups to the Fortune 500, we equip teams with the people-centric leadership skills needed to communicate, collaborate and resolve conflict.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Tribute website at https://www.tribute.co/ Check out Tribute on Facebook at https://facebook.com/wetribute Check out Institute for Relational Leadership website at https://www.relationalleadership.net/ Check out Andrew Horn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewhorn   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Gender Equity in the Workplace In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, the host engages in a profound conversation with Kim Jones, the founder and CEO of the Kim Jones Alliance. The episode delves into the critical issue of gender equity in the workplace, particularly focusing on the challenges and opportunities for women in male-dominated industries like technology. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Kim Jones, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Kim Jones boasts a 25-year corporate career, having ascended to senior executive roles in the information technology sector. As a former divisional CIO at a Fortune 250 company, Kim witnessed firsthand the underrepresentation of women in leadership positions, particularly in tech. This experience ignited her passion for elevating women in the workplace, leading her to establish the Kim Jones Alliance. Her organization is dedicated to empowering women to reach their highest potential through coaching, consulting, education, and workshops, creating a supportive environment where women can thrive, especially in industries where they are significantly underrepresented. Despite positive developments over the past two decades, such as increased conversations about gender equity and evolving leadership models, significant gaps remain. Women continue to be underrepresented in leadership roles, particularly in Fortune 500 companies, and hold only 25% to 35% of positions in the tech industry. Kim emphasizes the need for organizations to turn their intentions into actions to create more diverse and inclusive workplaces. She encourages women to recognize systemic bias, find allies, promote visibility, and prepare to use their voices. Additionally, she urges men to understand women's experiences, avoid assumptions, and become allies by recognizing biases and uplifting others.   About Kim Jones: Kim Jones draws on her 25 years of combined corporate and C-suite experience, coupled with her deep knowledge of leadership norms and best practices in corporate America, to develop a leading resource for women who want to advance their careers and create maximum workplace impact. She created Kim Jones Alliance (KJA) for individuals and companies looking to accelerate the progression of women in their work and careers. As part of this work, she partners with her clients to examine the structures that exist in their organizations and identify and implement solutions that create more equitable outcomes for women and other underrepresented groups, whether they be through leadership development or culture change. KJA’s chief objective is working in traditionally male-dominated fields—especially technology -- to assist them with becoming more hospitable for women while retaining the female talent already there. As such, KJA has developed courses and products that are designed to provide an equalizer for women seeking to climb the corporate ladder and reach their highest leadership potential. Through the trifecta of education, coaching, and consultancy, KJA empowers women in male prevalent fields like technology and leadership to shift both their mindsets and their behaviors to attain their professional goals. Furthermore, by embedding research and data on the ways that systemic bias shows up in companies and the strategies that effectively counteract them, Kim helps her clients examine and understand the systems of which they are a part and the actions that will best enable them to make meaningful changes within them. By doing so, she goes beyond merely highlighting the shortcomings in diversity and inclusion practices to empower her clients to take effective action. She is also starting a new KJA Academy for women to enroll in to benefit from her work wisdom.   About Kim Jones Alliance, LLC: Kim Jones Alliance helps ambitious women up-level their careers by creating work they love. Our deepest passion is guiding women into their freedom, empowerment, and purpose by helping them imagine and create the career of their dreams. Both personalized one-on-one and group coaching programs are offered to assist clients with navigating their career transformation journeys. Both offerings are designed to guide clients in creating the vision of their most amazing career imaginable, and then building the blueprint to launch it. Our coaching focuses on the premise that inner work plus outer change is what fuels career transformation. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Kim Jones Alliance, LLC website at https://www.kimjonesalliance.com/ Check out Kim Jones Alliance, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenbananaseo/ Check out Kim Jones on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberleesjones/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you fo

Navigating the Gym Industry: Addressing Industry Trends and Strategies   In the latest episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," we had the pleasure of hosting JP Levesque, the founder of Profitable Gyms. JP shared his invaluable insights into the gym industry, drawing from his extensive experience in both gym ownership and ultra-endurance sports. This blog post will delve into the key themes discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to help gym owners navigate the challenges and seize the opportunities in this competitive landscape. The episode kicks off with an introduction to JP Levesque, highlighting his background in ultra-endurance events and his goal of completing a 100k race. This experience serves as a powerful metaphor for the entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of perseverance and mental toughness. JP draws compelling parallels between endurance sports and entrepreneurship, underscoring the significance of mental resilience, strategic planning, and long-term vision. Just as athletes push through physical and mental barriers during a race, entrepreneurs must navigate the ups and downs of running a business. The conversation shifts to the current state of the gym industry, particularly during the summer season. JP provides valuable insights into seasonal trends, marketing strategies, and industry trends. He stresses the importance of marketing during the summer, suggesting short-term offers that appeal to potential members looking for quick results. JP also addresses the impact of weight loss drugs on the gym industry and explains how Profitable Gyms assists gym owners in overcoming common challenges. He advocates for a sales approach rooted in integrity, focusing on providing value and building trust. About JP Levesque: JP Levesque is a fitness industry veteran of 15+ years. Starting out as a personal trainer in 2008 and working his way to gym ownership in 2017. He owned and operated a successful Crossfit gym for 6 years before selling it and going online to help gym owners grow their business. He is married to a naturopath, has two daughters ages 2 and 6, is an ultra runner, practices Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, and is an all around fitness enthusiast. About Profitable Gym: They helps gym owners sign up and retain new high-paying members every single week. They will get more leads, make more sales, and truly see the growth they've been looking for with his powerful growth engine. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Profitable Gym website at https://profitablegyms.com/ Check out JP Levesque on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jp-levesque-782331255 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

The Value of Podcasting for Business Podcasting has become a powerful medium for businesses and individuals to connect with their audiences, share valuable content, and establish authority in their fields. In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, Dave Jackson, a renowned podcast consultant and founder of the School of Podcasting, shared his expertise on the state of podcasting, the value it brings to businesses, and common pitfalls aspiring podcasters should avoid. This blog post delves into the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and in-depth insights to help you navigate the podcasting landscape successfully. Podcasting offers a unique platform for businesses to engage with their audience in a more personal and impactful way. Dave Jackson highlighted several benefits, including building authority and trust by consistently sharing valuable content, which positions businesses as thought leaders. The intimate nature of podcasting fosters a personal connection with listeners, enhancing trust and loyalty. Additionally, podcasts can reach a global audience through diverse platforms like Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Google Podcasts, making it a cost-effective marketing tool with high engagement rates. Starting a podcast can be daunting, and many aspiring podcasters fall into common traps. Dave Jackson shared some frequent pitfalls and how to avoid them, such as the importance of having a clear focus and target audience, investing in good equipment for better audio quality, and maintaining a consistent publishing schedule. He also emphasized the value of understanding your audience and delivering great content through storytelling and value-driven episodes. Consulting services, like those offered by Dave Jackson, can provide personalized guidance, technical support, and expert insights to help podcasters avoid common mistakes and optimize their shows. For more information and resources, visit the School of Podcasting and explore the wealth of support available to aspiring podcasters.     About Dave Jackson:   Dave Jackson began podcasting in 2005 and launched the School of Podcasting. His School of Podcasting show has over 3.2 million downloads. He has helped hundreds of people plan, launch, and grow their podcasts. He is the author of the book Profit from Your Podcast: Proven Strategies to Turn Listeners into a Livelihood, and is a featured speaker at events. In 2016 Dave joined Libsyn (the largest podcast hosting company) as part of their tech support team. In 2018 he was inducted into the Academy of Podcasters Hall of Fame. Find him at www.schoolofpodcasting.com   About School of Podcasting:   The School of Podcasting is for the person looking to launch their own podcast. They want to do it right the first time. They want to be seen as an expert, reach a global audience, make more sales, know their audience, meet like-minded people, and grow their community. I have great step-by-step tutorials that will show you how to use podcast software titles like Audacity (a free software package), Adobe Audition, Sound Forge, and more. These tutorials walk you through the entire podcasting process. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest     Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out School of Podcasting website at www.schoolofpodcasting.com Check out School of Podcasting on LinkedIn at Check out Dave Jackson on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/in/davejackson/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.    

Elevating Your Brand: The Impact of Hiring a Fractional CMO   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show," host Josh Elledge engaged in a compelling conversation with Jessica Shirra, a fractional CMO for seven-figure brands and the founder of Navi, a boutique fractional CMO agency. They explored the unique advantages of hiring a fractional CMO, the specialized services provided by Navi, and the transformative impact these services have on businesses. This blog post distills the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide listeners and readers alike. A fractional CMO (Chief Marketing Officer) is a marketing executive who works with companies on a part-time basis, providing high-level strategic guidance without the full-time commitment. This role is particularly beneficial for businesses that need expert marketing leadership but may not have the resources to hire a full-time CMO. Jessica Shirra's agency, Navi, specializes in working with six and seven-figure brands, particularly those with digital products such as membership subscriptions, courses, and e-commerce. Navi's approach emphasizes data-driven decision-making and comprehensive business assessments, ensuring that marketing strategies are tailored to align with the business's goals and resources. One of the significant benefits of hiring a fractional CMO, as shared by Jessica, is the relief it provides to founders and CEOs, allowing them to focus on other critical aspects of their business. Navi's professionalism and elevated standards have been praised by clients, resulting in overall business improvement. Ideal clients for Navi are established businesses with sufficient revenue or funding, an adequate marketing budget, and existing marketing support to implement the strategies developed by the fractional CMO. For businesses looking to elevate their marketing efforts without the commitment of a full-time executive, exploring the services of a fractional CMO like Jessica Shirra from Navi could be a transformative step in their growth journey.   About Jessica Shirra: Jess Shirra is a Fractional CMO, and the founder of Fractional CMO School. Her days are spent supporting her 7-figure clients, helping them grow their membership + course businesses. Additionally she mentors other marketers to launch and grow their own Fractional CMO business. With more than 15 years in the field, she's led marketing for both high-growth startups, well-known global names like Lululemon, Pottery Barn, Jenna Kutcher, Strava, and Deloitte to name a few. Jess' philosophy is rooted in customer-first marketing, which she believes makes marketing and sales effortless and cultivates fiercely loyal brand advocates. She upholds that the key to true excellence is focusing on doing fewer things, but executing them exceptionally well. About Navi: Navi is a boutique agency offering Fractional CMO and contract marketing services to high-growth D2C brands on a fractional and project basis. We specialize in marketing for memberships, online education, high-ticket digital offerings, and e-commerce. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Navi website at https://www.jessicashirra.com/ Check out Navi on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hire-a-cmo Check out Jessica Shirra on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/jessicashirra Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering the Art of Business Exit Planning   In a recent episode of the UpMyInfluence podcast, host Josh had an enlightening conversation with Len Bruskiewitz, a certified business and executive coach and certified exit planning advisor. Len specializes in helping business owners, particularly those with revenues between $1 million and $10 million, prepare for a successful transition out of their businesses. This blog post delves into the key themes and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for business owners looking to master the art of exit planning. One of the most striking statistics shared by Len is that only about 20 to 25% of businesses that go up for sale actually sell. This low success rate underscores the critical need for meticulous exit planning. Len emphasizes that business owners should start thinking about their exit strategy well in advance—ideally, from day one. Key considerations include having a clear post-exit plan, developing a robust growth strategy, maintaining accurate accounting records, and creating distance from the business to make it more attractive to buyers. Josh and Len also discuss the emotional challenges that many business owners face when planning their exit. For many, their business is a significant part of their identity and purpose. Strategies to address these emotional hurdles include seeking professional guidance, focusing on legacy, and planning for an exciting future post-exit. Len shares examples of both successful and unsuccessful exit plans, highlighting the importance of starting early, improving business operations, and engaging potential successors.   About Len Bruskiewitz:   As a Business Coach & Certified Exit Planning Advisor, he specializes in assisting business owners generating $1-10M in revenue to plan and execute successful transitions of their companies to family members, third parties, or employees, all according to their specific timelines and terms. In the US, over 3 million of the 6 million companies with 1-19 employees are owned by individuals aged 55 and older, with most lacking any form of transition plan. His services provide them with two primary benefits: a substantial reduction in stress and a noteworthy increase in their company's value.   About FocalPoint Coaching:   Focal Point Business Coaching is the world’s premier Coaching and business skills training organization. We provide business performance coaching and training to business owners and executives. This is accomplished through one-on-one coaching in an environment of continuous learning, positive support and results-driven accountability. Everything is here: Worldwide BRAND, World class CONTENT, A proven SYSTEM, Innovative use of TECHNOLOGY, Unparalleled SUPPORT and an unmatched TEAM of Business Coaches around the world. We are experts at business growth, showing business leaders how to become more profitable, work less and ultimately, enjoy their lives more. Focal Point Business Coaching is powered by Brian Tracy. We use Brian's business building tools, systems and methodology and we are an extension of Brian's goal to help business owners and executives achieve greater success. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out Focal Point Business Coaching website at https://focalpointcoaching.com/ Check out Focal Point Business Coaching on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/focalpoint/ Check out Len Bruskiewitz's website at https://lenbruskiewitz.focalpointcoaching.com/ Check out Len Bruskiewitz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevincharlesroy/   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Transforming and Understanding Lazy Leadership   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show," host Josh engaged in a compelling conversation with Holunga, a distinguished leadership trainer, TEDx speaker, coach, and author. As the principal and executive coach at Chinook Executive Solutions, Julie is dedicated to eradicating lazy leadership and promoting impactful leadership practices. This blog post explores the key themes and actionable insights from their discussion, offering valuable guidance for leaders and organizations aiming for excellence. Lazy leadership, as defined by Julie, refers to a lack of proactive, engaged, and effective leadership. It can manifest in several ways, such as micromanagement, lack of vision, and poor communication. These behaviors can lead to decreased employee morale, reduced productivity, and high turnover rates, as employees feel undervalued and unmotivated. Julie's approach to combating lazy leadership involves fostering self-awareness, developing emotional intelligence, and ensuring clear vision and communication within organizations. Julie’s comprehensive leadership training is tailored to meet the unique needs of each leader and organization. Her methodology emphasizes self-awareness and reflection, developing emotional intelligence, and empowering and delegating tasks effectively. By promoting continuous learning and development, Julie helps leaders stay relevant and effective. Her services include one-on-one coaching, workshops, training programs, and a wealth of online resources. For those seeking to elevate their leadership skills, Julie’s programs offer invaluable support and guidance.   About Julie Holunga:   Julie Holunga is a Leadership Trainer and Executive Coach developing professionals to amplify their influence and impact. She works with Attorneys, CPAs, and Business Leaders, with an expertise in the careers of female professionals. Julie’s clients excelled in their careers with her proven communication strategies, honed their leadership skills, built increased visibility, and heightened confidence. Julie works with highly driven teams to instill the Trusted Voice Paradigm to develop collaborative patterns that deliver value. Through these programs, leaders learn to get out of their own way, develop trusting relationships with key stakeholders, and have a positive impact on the organization's bottom line. Prior to starting her own consulting practice, Julie served as Project Manager for Alumni Career Services at Harvard Business School, where she focused on advancing the careers of female alumni. She worked with F500 companies to retain and advance women into positions of leadership. Julie is one of thirty Global Master Trainers with Emergenetics®, teaching leaders, teams, and global organizations to align their communication for positive impact. Julie gave her first TEDx Talk in 2020: Don't Let Your Words Sabotage Your Career. She is a contributing author to the leadership book for women, On the Rise. Julie earned her BA at Union College and her MBA at Boston College. She spent seven years living and attending school in France, India, and Hong Kong. Julie and her family moved from Boston to Calgary, Canada, and are now settled in the beautiful foothills of Denver.   About Chinook Executive Solutions:     Chinook Executive Solutions is a Denver-based training and coaching firm serving mid-career attorneys, CPAs, and female business leaders. We help ambitious professionals reduce stress, manage their time, lead with confidence, and build their businesses. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode:     Want to learn more? Check out Julie Holunga's website at https://www.julieholunga.com/ Check out Chinook Executive Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/chinook-executive-solutions Check out Julie Holunga on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieholunga Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence:     We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Understanding the Current Challenges in Sustainability   In a recent podcast episode, we had the pleasure of hosting Rajeev Peshawaria, the president and founder of Leadership Energy Consulting and the CEO of Stewardship Asia Center. Rajeev, also the author of "Sustainable Sustainability," shared his profound insights on the need for a paradigm shift in how businesses approach sustainability. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed during the episode, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide our listeners towards embracing steward leadership and achieving sustainable success. Rajeev highlighted significant issues in the current landscape of sustainability, such as the gap between rhetoric and real action, often resulting in greenwashing rather than genuine impact. He also addressed the common misconception that sustainability is a cost or compliance problem, which limits the potential for businesses to see it as an opportunity for innovation and growth. By shifting this perspective, companies can unlock new avenues for creating value while addressing social and environmental challenges. At the heart of Rajeev's message is the concept of steward leadership, which emphasizes the importance of considering the broader impact of business decisions on society and the environment. Rajeev outlined several core principles that define steward leadership, including interdependence, a long-term view, taking ownership, and creative resilience. He shared real-world examples like the Tata Group and Faber-Castell, which have integrated sustainability into their core business models, demonstrating that ethical practices can coexist with commercial success. Rajeev emphasized the need to change the narrative around sustainability, viewing it as an opportunity to innovate and differentiate in the market. By declaring a collective purpose, integrating sustainability into business strategy, fostering a culture of ownership and accountability, and innovating for sustainable solutions, businesses can achieve superior shareholder returns while making a positive impact on society and the environment. For more in-depth discussions and inspiring stories of steward leadership, be sure to tune into Rajeev's podcast, "Sustainable Sustainability."   About Rajeev Peshawaria: He is the CEO of Stewardship Asia Center (SAC) in Singapore and the Founder President of the Leadership Energy Consulting Company based in Seattle, WA. He is also the author of several books including "Too Many Bosses, Too Few Leaders," "Be the Change," and "Open Source Leadership." With extensive global experience in Leadership Development and Corporate Governance, his focus lies in streamlining business strategy, organizational architecture, and culture. Previously, he served as the CEO of the Asia-based Iclif Leadership & Governance Center, and held roles as the global Chief Learning Officer at Morgan Stanley and The Coca-Cola Company. He has also held senior positions at American Express, HSBC, and Goldman Sachs. He holds an MBA from Webster University in Vienna, Austria, and a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Bombay, India.   About Stewardship Asia Center: We help business and government leaders, investors, and individuals accelerate leadership action on environmental and social challenges through catalytic knowledge and advisory. We are part of the Temasek Trust ecosystem with a shared purpose of building a better future for every generation. Temasek Trust is the philanthropic arm of Singapore­ based global investor Temasek Holdings. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Stewardship Asia Center website at https://www.stewardshipasia.com.sg/ Check out Stewardship Asia Center on LinkedIn at https://sg.linkedin.com/company/stewardship-asia-centre Check out Rajeev Peshawaria on LinkedIn at https://sg.linkedin.com/in/rajeevpeshawaria Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

The Branding Blueprint: Transforming Values into Profitable Businesses In the latest episode of our podcast, Rachel Allen and Solveig Petch, co-founders of Triple Diamond, delve into the intricacies of branding and share their expertise on building legacy brands. Their discussion is a treasure trove of insights for businesses aiming to create a brand that not only stands out in a crowded market but also resonates deeply with their target audience. Here, we break down the key takeaways from their conversation, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide you in your branding journey. Rachel and Solveig emphasize that a brand should be a reflection of the business's core values and beliefs, rather than just a vehicle for profit. This approach ensures that the brand resonates authentically with its audience and stands the test of time. They highlight the importance of creating a unique value proposition that sets your brand apart from the competition and share a compelling case study of a client who successfully transitioned their expertise into a new field with the help of Triple Diamond. This underscores the importance of leveraging your unique strengths to create a brand that stands out. Understanding consumer behavior and building trust with your audience are critical components of a successful brand. Rachel and Solveig stress the importance of market research, creating detailed customer personas, and utilizing behavioral analytics to refine your branding strategy. They also highlight the importance of working with clients who are willing to self-reflect and trust the expertise of branding professionals. By following the insights and actionable tips shared by Rachel and Solveig, you can build a brand that not only stands out in a crowded market but also resonates deeply with your target audience. About Rachel Allen: Rachel Allen is a fast-thinking, deeply nerdy marketer with 15+ years’ broad-ranging experience providing heart-led, data-driven outreach for businesses and nonprofs. About Solveig Petch: Solveig Petch, aka Petchy, is a values-centered, whip-smart brand strategist who’s spent the past 20+ years creating remarkable branding for the quietly rebellious for businesses all over the world. About Triple Diamond: We’ve built brands for some of the biggest (and smallest) businesses on the internet. Now, we’re combining our powers to create the Triple Diamond Brand package, where we take our 3+ decades of combined expertise, our deep commitment to human-first values, and our master craftsmanship to build your bigger picture business brand. If you’re looking for something that goes beyond the typical “7 Days to a Brand You LOVE!”, or some disposable branding you buy off Fiverr, we’re the people you want in your corner. You want to make an impact beyond your bank account. We want to partner with you to make it happen. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Triple Diamond's website at https://petchy.co/triple-diamond Check out Triple Diamond on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/triplediamond/ Check out Rachel Allen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rcallenwriter Check out Solveig Petch on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/petchy/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering Business Growth and Understanding the Core of Business Alignment In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge interviewed Ali Cudby, the founder and CEO of Alignmint Growth Strategies, to explore actionable strategies for business growth. This blog post highlights the key themes and insights from their conversation, offering a comprehensive guide to scaling your business effectively. Business alignment involves the strategic synchronization of all company aspects to ensure every department and team member works towards the same goals. Ali Cudby emphasizes that alignment is crucial for sustainable growth and long-term success. When a company is aligned, team members understand the overarching vision and goals, leading to cohesive efforts, improved efficiency, and enhanced employee engagement. Achieving business alignment requires clear communication of vision and goals, fostering a culture of collaboration, investing in employee development, leveraging data and analytics, and embracing adaptability and continuous improvement. By implementing these strategies, you can create a cohesive and motivated team well-equipped to drive sustainable growth. For more insights and expert advice, tune into The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show and explore the wealth of knowledge shared by industry leaders like Ali Cudby. About Ali Cudby: Ali Cudby is the CEO of Alignmint Growth Strategies, a company she founded in 2014 as Your Iconic Brand. Ali also wrote the book on customer experience – literally. That’s because Ali is the author of the bestseller, Keep Your Customers. From Fortune 500 to pre-revenue start-ups, Ali has spent 20 years refining her craft. Ali first cut her teeth in the world of customer experience after graduating from Wharton Business School and joining The New York Times Company’s corporate planning group. She also had stints in strategic marketing at the Golf Digest Magazine Group and Animal Planet TV Network before opening her own shop, where she focuses on making a difference for small to mid-sized companies that want the know-how to grow. These days, Ali teaches Entrepreneurship and Innovation at Purdue University and works with clients worldwide. When she’s not working, you’ll probably find her in the pottery studio or valiantly trying to tire out her two dogs. About Alignmint Growth Strategies: Alignmint Growth Strategies helps companies develop customer relationships that drive long-term loyalty. We deliver your process for growth through alignment applying our proven MINT Method. When companies apply the MINT Method, growth doesn’t have to be hard. What can feel like a barrier to reaching your next level simply needs a clear path that aligns your team and inspires your customers. Our process had been adopted successfully by companies around the world, and is the foundation of Founder & CEO Ali Cudby’s #1 bestselling book, “Keep Your Customers.” With Alignmint you get the know-how to grow. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Alignmint Growth Strategies website at https://alignmintforgrowth.com/ Check out Alignmint Growth Strategies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/alignmint Check out Ali Cudby on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alicudby Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Protecting Your Brand: Essential Intellectual Property Insights for Influencers and Entrepreneurs In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge sat down with Ana Juneja, an intellectual property attorney and the founder of Ana Law®. The discussion provided a wealth of information on the importance of intellectual property (IP) protection for influencers, entrepreneurs, and businesses of all sizes. This blog post will break down the key points from their conversation, offering actionable advice and detailed insights to help you safeguard your brand and navigate the complex world of IP law. Ana Juneja specializes in intellectual property law, which encompasses patents, trademarks, and copyrights. Patents protect inventions and processes, granting the inventor exclusive rights to use and commercialize their creation for a certain period. Trademarks protect brand names, logos, and slogans that distinguish goods or services in the marketplace. Copyrights protect original works of authorship, such as books, music, and art, giving the creator exclusive rights to use and distribute their work. One of the most critical points Ana emphasized is the importance of trademark protection for influencers and celebrities. Your name and brand are your identity in the marketplace, and without trademark protection, you risk losing control over how your brand is used. Ana stressed the importance of timing when it comes to setting up legal structures and obtaining IP protection. Establish the right legal structure for your business early on, whether it’s an LLC, corporation, or another entity. File for trademark protection as soon as you have a distinctive name or logo to prevent others from using your brand and give you legal standing in case of disputes. If you have an invention or unique process, file for a patent as soon as possible. While copyrights are automatically granted upon creation of a work, registering your copyright can provide additional legal benefits and make it easier to enforce your rights. About Ana Juneja: As an award-winning intellectual property attorney and the founder of Ana Law®, Ana Juneja helps celebrities, athletes, influencers, start-ups, entrepreneurs, and corporations secure and monetize their brands and ideas in the US and abroad. Ana Law® is the first and only law firm that offers flat-fee, 100% guaranteed patent, trademark, and copyright services. Ana has a 100% success rate and often speaks on important topics such as emerging legal issues surrounding security, AI, and social media. Additionally, Ana has extensive experience with social media intellectual property infringement issues. Ana’s insider connections with premier media agencies allow her to have direct access to key social media platforms, such as Meta (Facebook/Instagram), TikTok, and Twitter. These essential services are an important component of the brand protection strategy for Ana’s celebrity, athlete, & influencer clients. About Ana Law®: Ana Law® is the first and only law firm that offers flat-fee, 100% guaranteed patent, trademark, and copyright services. Ana has a 100% success rate and often speaks on important topics such as emerging legal issues surrounding security, AI, and social media. Across the country and around the globe, business leaders and innovators look to Ana Law as their trusted legal advisor for excellence, innovation, and superior results. As you look for opportunities to expand and grow your business and revenue, Ana Law is here to help every step of the way. We provide actionable legal & business advice to protect your ideas, products, brands, and revenue. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out Ana Law® website at https://analaw.com/ Check out Ana Law® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/analawhq/ Check out Ana Law® on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/analawgroup/ Check out Ana Juneja on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/anajuneja   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering the Art of Visual Storytelling In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge sat down with Emily Schneider, a visual storyteller and freelance PowerPoint designer, to delve into the intricacies of creating compelling presentations. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from their conversation, offering actionable advice and expert insights to help you elevate your presentation game. Emily emphasizes the importance of well-designed presentations, noting that good design can enhance understanding, engage the audience, and reinforce your message. She offers actionable tips such as using high-quality images, maintaining consistent branding, and utilizing whitespace effectively. Additionally, Emily highlights the role of storytelling in corporate presentations, explaining that a good narrative can create emotional connections, simplify complex ideas, and drive action. She advises starting with a hook, structuring your story clearly, and using real-life examples to make your content more relatable. Emily also shares best practices for creating visually appealing slides, including principles of simplicity, consistency, and visual hierarchy. She recommends using templates, incorporating infographics, and using animations sparingly. For those who prefer a DIY approach, Emily suggests tools like Canva, PowerPoint, and Prezi, and encourages leveraging free resources, practicing regularly, and seeking feedback. However, she also notes that hiring a professional can be beneficial for high-stakes presentations or complex projects.   About Emily Schneider:   Emily Schneider is a visual storyteller specializing in PowerPoint design. Her focus is on enabling business leaders to achieve measurable growth by harnessing the often underestimated power of visual storytelling and presentation design. With a fervor for transforming intricate content into compelling presentations that resonate deeply with audiences, Emily seamlessly blends storytelling with a discerning design sensibility. Her extensive experience has shaped her belief that a well-crafted presentation transcends mere slides and text; it serves as a strategic instrument capable of amplifying impact and driving business success. Emily's expertise lies in intricately weaving narratives into visual aids, crafting narratives that captivate and endure in audience memory. Beyond her role as a designer, she positions herself as a strategic collaborator, partnering closely with businesses to enhance their communication strategies. Together, she endeavors to transform messages into impactful presentations that captivate and inspire intended audiences, guiding them towards informed decisions and empowering storytellers to convey their narratives with confidence. In her podcast appearances, Emily Schneider passionately advocates for the significance of well-designed presentations. She underscores how effectively framing narratives can lead to stronger messages, resulting in increased sales, enhanced relationships, and overall business triumph. Through her insights, listeners gain practical advice on elevating presentations to new heights and forging deeper connections with their audiences. Emily is driven by her passion for storytelling and design, eagerly sharing her expertise to illuminate the transformative potential of design in PowerPoint presentations. She invites discussions on how business leaders can thrive amidst today's competitive landscape by harnessing the magic of storytelling.   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Emily Schneider's website at https://www.iamemilyschneider.com/ Check out Emily Schneider on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyschneider719 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Creating a Positive Workplace Culture in the Construction Industry In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge sat down with Chad Prinkey, the founder and CEO of Welbilt Construction Consulting. Chad, who also hosts "The Morning Huddle Construction Show" and authored "Well Built: How the Top 2% of Construction Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits, and Excellence," shared valuable insights on creating a great workplace culture in the construction industry. This blog post delves into their conversation, highlighting how construction companies can foster a positive work environment that translates into superior business performance. Chad Prinkey emphasizes that actively engaged employees are crucial for the success of any construction company. In an industry characterized by high stress, high demand, and low margins, companies that foster a positive workplace culture can achieve a self-perpetuating cycle of happy employees, happy customers, and higher profits. Key takeaways include the importance of employee engagement, creating a positive atmosphere, and understanding that happy employees lead to happy customers, which in turn leads to higher profits. Leaders can implement practical steps such as seeking feedback, demonstrating that they are listening, and considering flexible work schedules. Chad highlights Block, a general contractor in Texas and Louisiana, as a successful example of improved people leadership. Over the past three years, Block has increased employee engagement scores by adding a dedicated HR professional, implementing ongoing training and development programs, updating the benefits plan, and improving communication. Chad also discusses the significant costs associated with employee turnover in the construction industry, particularly for roles like estimating and project management. To mitigate turnover, companies should focus on becoming training organizations that grow their own talent and implement strategies to retain employees, such as offering competitive benefits and creating a positive work environment. About Chad Prinkey: Chad Prinkey is the Founder and CEO of Well Built Construction Consulting, an organization that has carved out a niche in exclusively serving the small to mid-size commercial general contractors, construction managers, specialty contractors, owners, and developers in the building industry. Prinkey's approach is hands-on, deeply invested in team skill enhancement, devising effective compensation structures, and fortifying communication within construction teams. His strategic vision goes beyond troubleshooting; it's about nurturing a culture where continuous improvement and leadership excellence are the norms in the building industry. Prinkey's expertise lies in strategically refining construction practices, guiding companies through the complexities of the market, and elevating industry standards. He steers organizations toward enduring success and operational distinction through consulting and facilitation. Prinkey's professional trajectory is defined by a strong focus on enhancing the operational aspects of construction companies and project teams. His extensive experience includes delivering keynotes and programs to over 120 construction companies and multiple associations, emphasizing his influence and reach within the industry. Prinkey is also the host of his weekly podcast, The Morning Huddle. Interviewing experts from across the building industry, Prinkey shares insightful and educational messages with listeners looking to impact the industry positively. Well Built distinguishes itself with a team that brings hands-on construction experience. This firsthand involvement ensures that their consulting is not just theoretical but steeped in practiced industry-specific knowledge. The services offered by Well Built are comprehensive, covering everything from strategic business plan development to executive coaching. The solutions provided address a construction company's full spectrum of needs, including acquisition, succession planning, and leadership training. Chad Prinkey is the author of Well Built: How the Top 2% of Construction Contractors Create Superior Value, Profits, and Excellence (Advantage Books, June 18, 2024). In Well Built, Prinkey lays out the roadmap for contractors to make meaningful upgrades in how they operate, strategize, manage teams, win new business, and deliver for customers. With a commitment to improving the industry as a whole, Chad Prinkey and Well Built Consulting focus on delivering results that not only benefit their clients but also set a precedent for excellence and progress across the construction landscape. For more information, please visit https://www.wellbuiltconsulting.com and tune into The Morning Huddle Construction Show. About Well Built Construction Consulting: We are a consulting firm with solutions focused exclusively on the construction industry. Our clients are General Contractor

Ensuring Work Quality and Safety: The Future of Quality Management   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show," host Josh from UpMyInfluence.com interviewed Matt Kleiman, co-founder and CEO of Cumulus Digital Systems. The discussion highlighted Cumulus's pivotal role in enhancing work quality and safety in mission-critical industries. This blog post distills the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, offering a comprehensive guide for those aiming to improve operational efficiency and safety within their organizations. Cumulus Digital Systems is a quality management system tailored for mission-critical facilities, ensuring tasks are performed correctly and safely. Matt Kleiman, inspired by his energy sector background and the lessons from the Deepwater Horizon disaster, developed Cumulus to proactively prevent such incidents. The system has significantly impacted various industries, including energy, data centers, and semiconductor fabrication, by guiding workers through tasks and validating their work to avoid costly and dangerous incidents. One of the standout benefits of Cumulus is cost avoidance, saving companies millions by preventing incidents before they occur. Additionally, Cumulus enhances safety outcomes by reducing the risk of accidents and injuries, fostering a safer work environment. The company is also committed to raising awareness about the importance of work quality and safety, overcoming resistance to change, and leveraging AI for continuous improvement. For organizations seeking to enhance safety and reliability, exploring Cumulus's resources and tools is a crucial step towards achieving these goals.   About Matthew Kleiman: Matthew Kleiman serves as co-founder & CEO of Cumulus Digital Systems, an award-winning connected worker platform that ensures mission-critical work is done right the first time, every time. With previous experience leading teams at Shell and Draper, Matt leverages his industry knowledge to build positive, lasting impact in the industry.   About Cumulus Digital Systems: Cumulus is a Quality Management System (QMS) that ensures critical construction and maintenance activities are done right the first time, every time. By integrating AI-powered workflows and connected IoT devices, the Cumulus QMS improves the productivity and quality of critical work, such as bolt tightening, welding, and pressure testing. To date, Cumulus has been used to manage over 7,000,0000 work completions across industries such as energy, construction, manufacturing, semiconductors, data centers, transportation, chemicals, renewables, and more. In addition to improving safety and sustainability, our technology also has been proven to reduce costs for quality control and data review by over 60%. Cumulus is headquartered in Waltham, Massachusetts, with additional offices in Houston, Texas, and Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, and serves customers across the globe Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out Cumulus Digital Systems website at https://cumulusds.com/ Check out Cumulus Digital Systems LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/cumulus-digital-systems Check out Matthew Kleiman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kleimanmatthew Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering Digital Marketing: Enhancing Engagement and Brand Identity In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge sat down with Manish Dudharejia, the Founder and CEO of E2M Solutions, to discuss the intricacies of digital marketing. This episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable tips for entrepreneurs looking to enhance their digital marketing strategies. Here, we break down the key takeaways from their conversation to help you navigate the digital marketing landscape effectively. Manish emphasizes the importance of **Search Engine Optimization (SEO)**, not just focusing on keywords but also on content quality, user experience, and technical aspects. He advises creating high-quality, relevant content, ensuring a user-friendly website, and paying attention to technical SEO elements like site structure and meta tags. Additionally, leveraging data analytics is crucial for understanding your audience and measuring marketing effectiveness. Manish suggests tracking key metrics, using analytics tools like Google Analytics, and conducting A/B tests to optimize strategies. Content marketing and social media are pivotal in engaging your audience. Manish recommends developing a content calendar, creating diverse content types, and using storytelling to make content relatable. On social media, selecting the right platforms, maintaining a consistent posting schedule, and actively engaging with your audience are essential. Building a strong brand identity is also crucial; this involves developing a unique brand voice, creating a consistent visual identity, and crafting a compelling brand story. Investing in paid advertising can further boost your efforts, with targeted ads and careful budget management to ensure a good return on investment. About Manish Dudharejia: Manish Dudharejia is the President and Founder of E2M Solutions Inc, a San Diego Based Digital Agency that specializes in SEO, Content Marketing, and Website Design & Development. With over 10 years of experience in the Technology and Marketing industry, Manish is passionate about helping online businesses to increase their branding on the internet. About E2M Solutions Inc: E2M is a Full Service White Label Digital Agency. We specialise in providing Website Design & Development, WordPress Development, Shopify Development, WooCommerce Development, eCommerce Stores, Digital Marketing Services (SEO, Local SEO, eCommerce SEO, Content Marketing), and Content Writing Services. Our primary business model is to provide white label services to Digital marketing agencies, Website design and development agencies, Branding and digital agencies. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out E2M Solutions Inc. website at https://www.e2msolutions.com/ Check out E2M Solutions Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/e2m-solutions/ Check out Manish Dudharejia on LinkedIn at https://in.linkedin.com/in/manishdudharejia   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

The Power of Improv in Enhancing Communication Skills   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh had an engaging conversation with Ross Kimball, the founder of Show Up Better Today. Ross shared his journey from a hesitant improv student to a communication coach for high performers in various fields. This blog post delves into the main themes of their discussion, offering valuable insights and actionable advice on how improv can significantly improve communication skills. Ross Kimball's journey into improv began with a significant delay. He signed up for an improv class but took two years to attend due to fear and self-doubt. This hesitation is common among many individuals who fear stepping out of their comfort zones. Ross's experience highlights the importance of taking that first step, no matter how daunting it may seem. Ross emphasizes that improv is not about being funny or quick-witted. Instead, it's about being present, responding authentically, and making others look good. This mindset shift can be transformative for high performers who often struggle with overthinking and self-editing. One of the most significant benefits of improv is the ability to quiet the self-editor in our minds. Josh shared his personal experience of how improv helped him relax his analytical brain, allowing him to be more comfortable and spontaneous in various situations. This reduction in self-censorship can lead to more authentic and effective communication. Improv also enhances listening skills, builds confidence, reduces performance pressure, and fosters a supportive communication environment. By incorporating practical improv techniques into daily life, individuals can significantly improve their interactions in both personal and professional settings. For more information on Ross Kimball and his work, visit Show Up Better Today.   About Ross Kimball: Ross is an actor, writer, and comedian who uses his experience in the entertainment industry to motivate and encourage individuals to become dynamic communicators. Ross is passionate about instilling confidence and giving practical tools to those who want to be more undeniable on stage, in a meeting, or at the next mandatory cocktail hour. Ross lives in Los Angeles with his amazing family and two orange trees. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Show Up Better Today website at https://showupbettertoday.com/ Check out Kevin Roy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ross-kimball-a354944/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Unlocking Holistic Revenue Growth: The Visionary Entrepreneur's Path   In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge interviewed Jackson Calame, founder of First Class Business, to explore the nuances of helping visionary entrepreneurs achieve holistic revenue growth and sustainable success. Jackson's methodology is grounded in effective leadership, human connection, and a thorough understanding of business infrastructure. This blog post distills the key insights from their discussion, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide entrepreneurs on their path to success. Jackson Calame compares First Class Business to Alfred, Batman's butler, ensuring that visionary entrepreneurs can concentrate on their strengths without burning out. The company offers a robust support system covering various business operations, including infrastructure and process, vision and culture, leadership and management, marketing and sales, and fulfillment and support operations. Jackson emphasizes the importance of regularly assessing business infrastructure, cultivating a strong organizational culture, and investing in leadership training for sustainable success. Jackson underscores the significance of entrepreneurs focusing on their strengths as visionaries and CEOs. He advocates leveraging resources like webinars and books, such as "The Effective Executive" by Dr. Peter Drucker, to enhance executive effectiveness. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to identify their core competencies, engage in continuous learning, and delegate tasks outside their strengths to capable team members. By doing so, they can maximize their impact and drive their businesses toward holistic growth.   About Jackson Calame: Jackson teaches visionary entrepreneurs how to unlock sustainable revenue growth and expand their legacy by becoming a Power Brand in their market. 96% of businesses fail within the first 10 years. Jackson teaches businesses, not only how to avoid failure, but how to win, by becoming a true leader in their market. Having worked in, launched, and scaled several successful startups in the b2b industry & SaaS space, servicing thousands of SMBs, Jackson has seen firsthand that even the best operators struggle and often fail. The problem begins with poorly managed growth, due to establishing a weak foundation, which inevitably leads to collapse. Jackson and his teams prepare business owners and executives to bridge their growth gaps. Collectively, we often fill the roles of COO, CMO, or CEO during this transformative process. Your key to success as growth occurs and operations shift, will require that you evolve. Developing an incredible culture, built around a clear vision dedicated to customer satisfaction, must be the focal point of a company's mission in order to ultimately thrive. Most operators think they are prepared for this. The truth is, you aren't. Personal growth will be necessary. Personnel shifts will occur. Cuts will likely be made as accountability begins to expose who your contenders are, and who your pretenders are. It’s not personal, it’s business. And in order for everyone to win, a business can only afford to have leaders who pull their own weight, who add value to the mission, not anchors who will hold you back. If your business is ready for a powerful shift that empowers you to maximize your potential, Jackson and his team members are the key players you need on your team, to make it happen.   About First Class Business:   First Class Business is founded on the principle that we can help you achieve sustainable revenue by partnering with you at a higher level than you would typically find among business consultants. We come alongside you like a business partner who can help you form a strategy at the highest level but then ALSO help with the process of execution, measurement, and adjustment as needed to see the vision through. This rare combination of high-level service is designed to supercharge your goals as we make your vision our own. Invite us into your world and let’s work together to unlock the full potential of your own first class business.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out First Class Business website at https://firstclassbusiness.io/ Check out First Class Business on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/79133881 Check out Jackson Calame on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacksoncalame/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts manag

Embracing the Aliveness Mindset: A Guide to Leading with Passion, Purpose, and Joy In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge conversed with Jack Craven, an executive leadership coach and author of "Aliveness Mindset: Lead and Live with More Passion, Purpose, and Joy." Their discussion explored leadership, emotional intelligence, and living a fulfilling life. This blog post distills key insights from their conversation, offering actionable advice to help you lead with more passion, purpose, and joy. Jack Craven's "Aliveness Mindset" emphasizes living and leading with passion and purpose. It involves reducing reactivity, accessing emotional intelligence, and aligning with true desires. Key themes include reducing reactivity through mindfulness practices, identifying core values by reflecting on peak experiences, and setting intrinsically rewarding goals. Craven also highlights the importance of perseverance, modeling your best self, and taking practical steps to experience more aliveness daily. To experience more aliveness, Jack advises listening to your heart, making heart-centered decisions, and prioritizing activities that make you feel alive. Reframe your perspective on your current role to find meaning, and be open to change if your current path isn't fulfilling. By staying committed to your values, trusting your instincts, and taking small actions daily, you can transform both your personal and professional life, leading with passion, purpose, and joy. About Jack Craven: With a diverse background as a trial lawyer, seasoned CEO, long time member of Young Presidents Organization (YPO) mindset author, distinguished executive coach, and C-Suite team facilitator, Jack Craven has spent the last 9 years leading countless CEOs and their C-Suite teams into more fulfilling, authentic lives. In his work over the past decade, Jack continually found what he personally experienced in his long-term CEO role–executives aren’t necessarily satisfied with their lives but feel guilty asking for more because they know they are privileged and blessed. Through his “Living All In” philosophy, he has helped leaders and their companies reach the pinnacle of their potential. He aids leaders in honing their effectiveness and fulfillment by pinpointing drivers, strengths, and blind spots and helps them discover deeper purpose, joy, and happiness in their lives. Jack seamlessly blends his experience with neuroscience-based practices and insights from the Enneagram personality system to facilitate transformative coaching results. Since 2007, Jack has also been an active member and one of only 120 certified facilitators worldwide for the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO), the world’s leading community for chief executives, giving him a profound understanding of contemporary leadership dynamics. Prior to his work with executive leadership, Jack was the CEO of his family’s business, Craven Closeouts, for nearly two decades. He began his career as a trial lawyer with the Chicago State’s Attorney’s Office and then moved into private practice. To help executives become fully immersed in their aliveness and live their best professional and personal lives, on April 2, 2024, Jack will launch his first book, Aliveness Mindset: Lead and Live with More Passion, Purpose, and Joy, with publisher Forefront Books. Jack received his J.D. from the Chicago-Kent College of Law, Illinois Institute of Technology, and his B.A. in Political Science, Criminal Justice from Indiana University Bloomington. Just as passionate about his personal pursuits, Jack loves keeping. About Aliveness Mindset (Book): In Aliveness Mindset, Jack explains his groundbreaking method to achieve an “Optimal State,” which provides clarity, confidence, growth, and natural concentration. This is honed through implementing “Living All In Tools” and by first grasping an “Aliveness Mindset” and then putting it into practice. In the book, Jack highlights that the “Aliveness Mindset” is the path to freedom. He outlines the seven components of an “Aliveness Mindset,” including ownership, openness, awareness, authenticity, courage, tenacity, and love, and how they work together to power one’s aliveness journey. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Jack Craven's website at https://www.jackcraven.com/ Check out Jack Craven on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackcraven1 Check out Aliveness Mindset on LinkedIn at https://www.jackcraven.com/aliveness-mindset Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want

Scaling Your Agency with a Fractional CFO In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge interviewed Michael Wark, a fractional CFO and the founder and CEO of Trimline. Michael specializes in helping agency owners scale their businesses, and during the interview, he shared invaluable insights into the challenges agency owners face, the benefits of hiring a fractional CFO, and actionable advice for those looking to grow their agencies. This blog post will delve into the key themes discussed in the episode, breaking down each tip in detail to provide a comprehensive guide for agency owners. A fractional CFO is a part-time Chief Financial Officer who provides financial expertise and leadership to businesses that may not need or cannot afford a full-time CFO. This role is particularly beneficial for small to mid-sized businesses, including agencies, that are in the growth phase and need strategic financial guidance. Michael Wark suggests that agency owners typically consider hiring a fractional CFO when they have a team of at least 2-3 people and are generating revenue between $500,000 to $5 million. At this stage, businesses are navigating the "valley of death" in their growth curve, where financial missteps can be particularly costly. One of the first areas Michael addresses with his clients is their profit margins. Many agencies struggle with pricing their services correctly, leading to thin margins that can hinder growth. Cash flow is another common challenge for growing agencies, and Michael emphasizes the importance of maintaining a healthy cash flow to support growth. As agencies grow, it's crucial to focus on building long-term value. Michael advises agency owners to think beyond immediate profits and consider the overall value of their business. By focusing on key areas such as fixing margins, solving cash flow issues, and building enterprise value, a fractional CFO can provide the financial leadership needed to navigate the challenges of growth.   About Michael Wark: Michael Wark is a qualified Chartered Accountant with over 19 years of commercial experience. He is the founder of Trimline which helps small agency owners achieve an exit through strategic support and coaching. The coaching is anchored in the numbers but expands quickly beyond that to focus on strategy, and unpacking the key pillars of value that you need to be building alongside improving your numbers. With a deep understanding of best practices for agencies small and large, he guides owners through the growth phase to exit with expertise and care.   About Trimline: Trimline helps business owners acheive an exit through strategic support and coaching. You get an experienced leader on your team at a fraction of the cost and time. Our regular meetings are designed to give you a deeper insight into your numbers, and help you plan for the future. We are here to build real value in your business, and share our insights into best practices from across our extensive industry experience. Our guaranteed confidentiality is a critical outlet for founders. It means you can work through sensitive ideas or problems you can’t share with your existing team. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out the Trimline website at https://trimline.co/ Check out Trimline on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/trimline-co/ Check out Michael Wark on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/michael-wark-18627628 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Implementing AI in Customer Support In a recent podcast episode, Josh, the host, engaged in an enlightening conversation with Joanne, the CEO of Zingtree. They explored the intricacies of customer support, the role of AI in enhancing customer experiences, and Zingtree's unique approach to ensuring seamless and efficient support for large, complex, and compliant businesses. This blog post breaks down the key insights from their discussion, offering actionable advice and expert recommendations for businesses looking to improve their customer support systems. Joanne emphasized the critical role of customer experience (CX) in business success, noting that poor customer experiences can lead to significant negative impacts such as reduced client retention and lower customer satisfaction. Despite substantial investments in the customer support space, many companies still struggle to provide satisfactory experiences. Joanne highlighted that 85-90% of people report subpar experiences when interacting with customer support lines or chatbots, pointing out that traditional ticket-based systems often lead to prolonged and frustrating processes for customers. Zingtree aims to revolutionize customer support by eliminating the need for tickets, envisioning a future where issues are resolved instantaneously. Joanne shared insights into how AI can be leveraged to provide immediate solutions to customer issues, reducing the need for human intervention and enhancing efficiency. For large, complex enterprises, implementing AI requires a solid foundation, including data cleanliness, workflow optimization, and a phased approach to AI integration. Zingtree's consultative approach ensures they understand the specific goals and pain points of each business, fostering long-term partnerships and providing tailored solutions. About Juan Jaysingh: Juan Jaysingh is President and CEO at Zingtree, leading the company’s mission to transform complex processes into clear actions for businesses around the globe. Since becoming CEO in January 2020, Juan has focused on scaling and expanding Zingtree as a profitable, B2B SaaS organization working with over 700 customers worldwide. Juan’s years of experience in tech entrepreneurship include his time at Universal Tennis, the sports tech startup behind UTR Powered by Oracle. Juan led the GTM strategy and rollout of UTR’s community platform to elite clubs and tennis academies worldwide. Juan also founded ZeeMee, a social media community platform for high school students transitioning to college. Under his leadership, ZeeMee was named to the inaugural CNBC Upstart 25 in 2017. Before ZeeMee, Juan held various technology consulting roles. An accomplished tennis player, Juan immigrated to the United States alone at the age of 14. A chance encounter landed him full tennis scholarships to study and compete at Georgetown Prep and then at American University. Juan says passion and integrity drive his work ethic. As he likes to say, “if it’s too easy, it’s probably not worth it.” Juan and his family reside in Palo Alto, California. About Zingtree: Zingtree is the AI enabled CX automation platform that helps B2C enterprises automate actions, self-service and agent effectiveness. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Zingtree website at https://zingtree.com/ Check out Zingtree on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/zingtree Check out Zingtree on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ZingtreeForBusiness/ Check out Juan Jaysingh on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juanjaysingh Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Mastering Financial Validation: Insights from Chris McCall In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh Elledge sat down with Chris McCall, the co-founder and CEO of Valid8 Financial, to delve into the intricacies of financial validation for businesses. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for entrepreneurs looking to solidify their financial strategies and ensure sustainable growth. Here, we break down the key takeaways and actionable advice shared by Chris McCall. Financial validation is a critical process for any business, ensuring that financial data is accurate, reliable, and aligned with the company’s strategic goals. Chris McCall emphasizes the importance of this process in building investor confidence and guiding business decisions. Key components include the accuracy of financial data through regular audits and automated systems, reliability and consistency via standardized reporting and historical data analysis, and alignment with strategic goals through goal-oriented financial planning and performance metrics. Investors need to trust that a company’s financial data is accurate and that the business is on a solid financial footing. Chris McCall shares several strategies to build and maintain this trust, such as transparent communication with regular updates and open dialogue, demonstrating financial health through strong balance sheets and effective cash flow management, and showcasing a proven track record with consistent performance and case studies. By following these strategies, entrepreneurs can build a robust financial foundation that supports sustainable growth and long-term success. About Chris McCall: As CEO and Cofounder, Chris leads VALID8’s vision, strategy, and execution. Prior to cofounding VALID8, Chris led marketing as Chief Marketing Officer for NexGen Storage where he built a world class marketing team around strategic market analysis and product management. Chris started his career as an Electrical Engineer designing systems forBoeing 747’s. Identifying the need to modernize the engineering design data infrastructure, he revamped how system design software could leverage large datasets more effectively. Passionate about extracting value from big data systems, Chris took on several product roles with start-ups acquired by F500 companies HP and SanDisk. About Valid8 Financial: Valid8 Financial has become the global leader in Verified Financial Intelligence (VFI) and is used on the highest profile, most complex bankruptcy, fraud, and cryptocurrency cases in the world, but it all started with a frustrated team of accountants trying to untangle a Ponzi scheme case in 2017. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Valid8 Financial website at https://www.valid8financial.com/ Check out Valid8 Financial on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/greenbananaseo/ Check out Chris McCall on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/cmccall/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.