The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Investor of UniFi Equipment Finance, RJ Grimshaw.RJ Grimshaw's story is nothing short of remarkable. He successfully grew a business from a modest $13 million to an impressive $150 million sales. But what's truly inspiring is his unwavering commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial culture. RJ believes aligning employees with the company's vision and mission is beneficial and essential for substantial growth. He highlighted the importance of identifying and nurturing entrepreneurs within a company.RJ shared that a long-term commitment is the key to creating a culture of entrepreneurship. It's about encouraging employees to share their ideas and take calculated risks. He provided practical strategies for leaders, such as setting up formal programs to track and implement employee ideas, creating dedicated communication channels for idea submissions, and identifying and empowering champions of the entrepreneurial operating system.According to RJ, Recognizing and celebrating entrepreneurial employees' contributions is vital. It boosts their engagement and commitment, creating a positive feedback loop and encouraging others to step forward with their ideas. This recognition can profoundly impact the overall morale and innovation within a company.RJ addressed the challenge of engaging employees who may prefer to follow instructions over disrupting the status quo. He suggested a balanced approach, where the majority focus on functional tasks, but a significant portion—20%—is encouraged to innovate and drive change. Key Points from the Episode:Importance of fostering an entrepreneurial culture within organizationsIdentifying and nurturing entrepreneurs within the companySoft skills essential for driving innovation and growthStrategies for evoking a culture of entrepreneurship within organizationsRecognizing and empowering entrepreneurial-minded individualsEncouraging participation from employees inclined towards following instructionsBalancing functional tasks with driving innovation and changeNurturing soft skills such as ownership mentality, continuous learning, passion, and willingness to take calculated risksPractical advice for leaders to create a culture that supports entrepreneurialismValue of including entrepreneurial mindset on resumes and job descriptionsAbout R.J Grimshaw:RJ Grimshaw, the ex-President and CEO of UniFi Equipment Finance until October 2023, orchestrated a remarkable transformation during his tenure, elevating the company's revenue from $13 million to an impressive $150 million. His extensive experience includes key leadership roles at EverBank and Key Equipment Finance. RJ served as the treasurer on the Equipment Leasing Finance Association board. As a distinguished author, his work "ABLE LEADERSHIP" establishes him as a leading authority in intrapreneurship, sales, and leadership. RJ's strategic vision and impactful leadership have left an indelible mark on the financial landscape, reflecting his prowess in steering organizations towards substantial growth and success.About UniFi Equipment Finance:UniFi Equipment Finance, formerly Ervin Leasing, stands out as a distinguished provider of commercial equipment leasing services. Renowned for its superior service and commitment to integrity, UniFi offers a diverse range of lease plans covering virtually all types of commercial equipment. With a history dating back to 1978, the company has been a dedicated member of the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), showcasing its longstanding presence and commitment to industry standards.In January 2013, UniFi underwent a significant development as it was acquired by the Bank of Ann Arbor, a community bank serving Washtenaw and Western Wayne counties. This strategic alliance with the bank has infused substantial liquidity and positioned UniFi for projected growth. Both entities share a mission of quality service, a robust credit culture, and a collective commitment to community development.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 UniFi Equipment Finance website athttps://www.teamunifi.com/Check out UniFi Equipment Finance on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/unifiequipmentfinance/Check out RJ Grimshaw on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rjgrimshaw/Check out RJ Grimshaw on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/rj_grimshaw/Check out RJ Grimshaw on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/rjgcoachMore 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Dentist, Success Coach, Keynote Speaker, Workshop Facilitator, Eric Recker.Dr. Recker's journey began with a childhood experience that is unfortunately all too common: bullying. The impact of this early adversity profoundly shaped his drive for achievement. As a second grader, he made a pact with himself to excel in everything he did, a decision that stemmed from a desire to prove his worth to those who had bullied him. However, this relentless pursuit came at a cost. Dr. Recker faced burnout multiple times, a clear sign that his efforts to seek approval from childhood bullies were unsustainable. Through these experiences, he realized the need to help others who might be on a similar path, struggling with the ghosts of their past.One of the most powerful concepts Dr. Recker shared with me was the idea of "winning the now." This philosophy centers on being present and defining success in each moment. It's about reframing our perspective on losses, learning from them, and turning them into wins. Dr. Rucker's approach encourages us to step away from the constant pressure and urgency to achieve, which he aptly calls the "false sense of urgency."Dr. Recker provided practical coping mechanisms to deal with these challenges. One such strategy is setting aside dedicated "worry time," a period during the day when you can process your concerns without letting them overrun your life. Another technique he advocates is the "brain dump," which involves decluttering your mind by writing down everything that's weighing on you.Key Points from the Episode:Dr. Eric Recker's personal journey of overcoming bullying and its impact on his drive for achievementThe concept of "win the now" and living in the present momentStrategies for managing the constant pressure and urgency to achieveCoping mechanisms for dealing with worries and anxietiesThe "five-day knockback burnout challenge" as a resource to combat burnoutDr. Rucker's coaching services, workshops, and retreats for high achieversAbout Eric Recker:Dr. Eric Recker, a dedicated dentist since 2002, leads a team of 18 professionals and has maintained a passion for his work over two decades. He has been married to Amy Recker since 1997, so he cherishes his family with two boys. A native of Pella, Iowa, his upbringing in a rural community has shaped his character, fostering a love for learning and exploration. Eric, a pilot since 2018, has traveled to 12 countries and 46 states, reflecting his curiosity about the world.Beyond his dental profession, Eric is a recovering triathlete, having completed over 20 races up to the Ironman level. As a Certified Elite Success Coach, he mentors and coaches high-achieving personalities, emphasizing the philosophy of #WINtheNOW. With a history of biking across Iowa and scaling mountains, including Kilimanjaro, Eric remains passionate about helping people realize their goals and believes in a bright future.Tweetable Moments:01:34 - "I made a pact as a second grader on the sidelines of that field: I said, 'I'm going to be so freaking good at everything that I ever do that nobody's ever not going to pick me.'"15:13 - "I'm in the business of hope. I want people who work with me to walk away with hope and a plan that there's going to be good days ahead."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 Eric Recker website athttps://ericrecker.com/Check out Eric Recker on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-recker-583849278/Check out Eric Recker on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/docrecker/Check out Eric Recker on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/eric.recker.1/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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Owner of The Funnel Pros, Michael Tucker.Virtual events have become a cornerstone of digital marketing and entrepreneurship. As a virtual event agency, Michael Tucker and his team craft transformational experiences that convert cold leads into hot customers. The beauty of virtual events lies in their ability to build deep connections with audiences, which is essential for any business looking to grow its influence.One of the most effective formats Tucker discussed is the five-day challenge model. This approach involves creating a structured, value-packed experience that guides potential customers toward their goals. It's a powerful way to establish trust and credibility, and it's been proven to work across various industries.Key Points from the Episode:Virtual events and their potential for expanding reach, credibility, and influence for entrepreneurs and business ownersInsights into the concept of virtual events and the five-day challenge modelMaking virtual events successful and the process of testing the concept with an audienceCrafting virtual transformational experiences and the different types of virtual eventsThe importance of virtual events in building connections with the audience or potential customersThe five-day challenge model and its effectiveness in taking cold leads to hot customersDesigning virtual events around achieving specific outcomes and engaging the audienceStructuring virtual events to be an hour to an hour and a half a day for five daysAbout Michael Tucker:Michael Tucker is a renowned figure in virtual events and digital marketing, boasting a remarkable ability to accelerate income and influence in a few days. With a track record of delivering extraordinary results, he has propelled his clients to over $30 million in profits within a concise 2-3 year timeframe. Armed with invaluable experience, Tucker is now dedicated to imparting his secrets for success in running virtual events and effective marketing strategies. Entrepreneurs seeking rapid growth in influence and income stand to benefit from his proven formulas. Tucker's expertise positions him as a go-to resource for online business enthusiasts eager to harness the power of virtual events and optimize their digital marketing endeavors for swift and substantial success.About The Funnel Pros:The Funnel Pros specialize in providing personalized and turnkey virtual event solutions, offering a strategic avenue for rapidly scaling online businesses. With a focus on customization, they cater to clients' unique needs, ensuring a tailored approach to virtual events. Whether it's webinars, workshops, or conferences, The Funnel Pros delivers a comprehensive, done-for-you service that streamlines organizing and executing impactful online events. Their expertise lies in optimizing the virtual event experience to drive business growth swiftly.Entrepreneurs looking for a seamless and effective way to expand their online presence can rely on The Funnel Pros for personalized solutions designed to enhance visibility, engagement, and overall success in the digital landscape.Tweetable Moments:02:18 - "I truly believe that virtual experiences are the best way to build connections."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 The Funnel Pros on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/the-funnel-pros/Check out Michael Tucker on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/theofficialmichaeltucker/Check out Michael Tucker on Instagram athttp://www.instagram.com/officialmichaeltucker/Check out Michael Tucker on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/theofficialmichaeltucker/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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & CEO of Finstrat, Kristian Marquez.With his extensive experience at Finstrat Management, Kristian Marquez shed light on this innovative solution. A fractional CFO is a part-time financial expert who provides strategic financial guidance to companies without the commitment or cost of a full-time executive. Kristian outlined that if a business is experiencing rapid growth, preparing for fundraising, or navigating complex financial challenges, it might be time to consider this strategic move. A fractional CFO can bring a wealth of knowledge and experience, helping to steer the company towards financial health and scalability.Kristian highlighted the unique value Finstrat Management brings to founders and investors. Their team of experts provides financial oversight and assists in critical areas such as cash flow management, financial forecasting, and strategic planning. This support is crucial for B2B SaaS companies that operate in a highly competitive and fast-paced environment.He also emphasized the importance of staying ahead of the curve, whether adopting new technologies or refining operational strategies. He pointed out that businesses that remain agile and informed are the ones that thrive.Kristian believes that AI is not just a trend but a transformative force reshaping how we approach business operations and decision-making. He shared how AI can streamline processes, uncover insights, and drive efficiency, giving companies that leverage it a competitive edge.Key Points from the Episode:Role of fractional CFOs in early-stage companiesFocus on B2B SaaS industryInsights into the work of Finstrat ManagementValue provided to founders and investorsIndicators that a company may be ready to bring in a fractional CFOTrends in business managementImpact of artificial intelligence on businessesAbout Kristian Marquez:Kristian is the accomplished Founder, President, and CEO of FinStrat Management. This renowned outsourced financial department services firm provides accounting, finance, and reporting services for B2B SaaS companies, investors, RIAs, and VCs. With a robust background, Kristian was pivotal in steering Inovalon through various executive and management positions, contributing significantly to its evolution from an early stage to a multi-billion IPO. Inovalon, a leading provider of cloud-based solutions in data-driven healthcare, benefited from Kristian's expertise.His extensive career includes senior roles in accounting and investment management services and a commendable tenure as an officer in the United States Marine Corps. A distinguished alumnus of the United States Naval Academy with a Bachelor of Science in General Engineering, Kristian has held the Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA) charter holder designation since 2004. His multifaceted experience and leadership make him a respected figure in the financial and business sectors.About Finstrat:FinStrat Management (FSM) is a premier outsourced financial operations services firm catering to B2B SaaS companies, investors, RIAs, and VCs. Renowned for its industry expertise and cutting-edge software solutions, FSM delivers specialized reporting, comprehensive accounting, and financial functions, contributing to enhanced bottom-line performance for clients.Distinguished by tailored financial operations teams, FSM is adept at addressing businesses' unique accounting, financial, and reporting requirements. The firm prides itself on providing flexibility, seamless implementations, top-tier client support, and cost-effective pricing structures across all stages of growth. FSM's commitment to excellence positions it as a strategic partner, empowering clients to navigate financial complexities while optimizing operational efficiency and fostering sustainable success in a competitive business landscape.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 Finstrat website athttps://finstratmgmt.com/Check out Finstrat on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/finstratmgmt/Check out Finstrat on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/finstratmgmtCheck out Finstrat on Facebook athttps://m.facebook.com/p/FinStrat-Management-100069837232752/Check out Kristian Marquez on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/kristianmarquez/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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Copywriter & CMO of 100 Year Brand, Chris Orzechowski.Chris is on a mission to create enduring American brands in the physical product space, and he brought a treasure trove of strategies to the table. Chris' goal is ambitious yet inspiring: to build the next generation of 100-plus year American brands. As a fractional CMO, Chris works hands-on with brands to scale their marketing efforts. He focuses on expanding their marketing budget, channels, assets, and infrastructure, all to drive substantial revenue and growth.One of the core principles Chris emphasizes is transforming a brand into a lifestyle. This is about creating a culture and community around your brand. By establishing solid retention systems, brands can keep customers engaged for the long haul, encouraging repeat purchases and fostering loyaltyChris delves into the critical role of database management, mining, and segmentation. Understanding your customer base and identifying its opportunities are essential for revenue growth. By analyzing customer data, brands can tailor their marketing strategies to target the right segments with the right messages.Regarding marketing, Chris concentrates on key areas such as advertising, customer acquisition, email marketing, SMS, direct mail, and influencer strategy. He advocates for a hyper-focused approach, especially with influencer outreach. Instead of casting a wide net, Chris suggests building strong relationships with a select few influencers who truly resonate with your brand's values and products.Key Points from the Episode:Mission to build 100+ year American brands in the physical product spaceFractional CMO's role in multiplying and growing marketing budget, channels, assets, and infrastructureImportance of turning a brand into a lifestyle and building solid retention systemsDatabase management, mining, and segmentation for revenue and growth opportunitiesKey areas of marketing focus: advertising, customer acquisition, email marketing, SMS, direct mail, and influencer strategyHyper-focusing on hand-selected influencers aligned with brand valuesProviding exceptional services to maintain and grow the existing customer baseEmail marketing and delivering consistent and valuable content to subscribersAbout Chris Orzechowski:Chris Orzechowski's trajectory from Division 1 wrestler at Rutgers University to one of the world's highest-paid copywriters is truly extraordinary. Despite initially struggling in a freshman writing course, Chris's journey led him through diverse roles, from teacher to bartender and bouncer. With over a decade in marketing, he stands as a sought-after expert in copywriting, marketing, and brand growth. Chris has collaborated with 200+ clients, trained 5,000 students, and contributed over $120 million in sales. Notable brands like Carnivore Snax and high-profile figures like Ryan Serhant have benefited from his expertise. Renowned for advocating plain text emails in e-commerce marketing, Chris is challenging industry norms. As a fractional Chief Marketing Officer, founder of the 100 Year Brand, and author of "The Moat," he's dedicated to shaping the next generation of enduring American brands. Featured in Forbes and Business Insider, Chris Orzechowski is a transformative force in the marketing landscapeAbout 100 Year Brand:In the quest to build a resilient and enduring brand, Chris Orzechowski introduces the concept of the 100-Year Brand. Rejecting the notion of waiting for a perfect time, he emphasizes the possibility of success in any economic climate. The key is to establish a brand that not only weathers storms but consistently generates wealth irrespective of external challenges. Drawing inspiration from iconic brands born in challenging economies, Chris encourages aspiring entrepreneurs to aim for generational wealth and long-lasting impact. The 100 Year Brand is Chris's initiative to guide individuals in transforming their brands into timeless icons, ensuring financial security for a lifetime and leaving a lasting legacy. Tweetable Moments:02:55 - "The best brands that last the longest tend to retain customers for a very long time and get repeat purchases over and over again."03:56 - "When you look at a mountain, there might be gold deposits all over; you just need to find the gold within the mountain. Your database is the same way."11:59 - "If someone's in pain and they have a problem and you have the solutions, there's no amount of content you could send them that would be too much content."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 100 Year Brand website athttps://100yearbrand.co/#brandsCheck out Chris Orzechowski on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-orzechowski-b5531823a/Check out Chris Orzechowski on Instagram a

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder & Managing Partner of Brand Castle, Bryan Alston.Brand Castle Growth Partners has carved out a niche in the retail industry by assisting e-commerce brands in getting their products onto store shelves and providing invaluable support in branding and marketing strategies. Bryan emphasized these elements' critical role in ensuring a brand's success across various retail channels.Brian shed light on the stark differences between selling products online and in physical stores. He pointed out that each channel's competition and consumer behavior differ. Brands that have established a strong online presence and cultivated a loyal customer base have a significant advantage. They are better positioned to negotiate favorable terms with retailers and secure prime placement in stores, which can be a game-changer in a competitive market.Bryan stressed the importance of profitability and a deep understanding of the target customer base before considering such an expansion. He also touched on the necessity of systematically assessing operational readiness and the brand's unique selling propositions before engaging with retail partners.Bryan's expertise shone through as he highlighted the significance of staying abreast of trends and consumer preferences. These factors heavily influence retail buyers' decisions, and brands must align their products with these emerging trends. Key Points from the Episode:Importance of branding and marketing for e-commerce brandsDifferences between selling products online and in physical storesInsights on negotiating favorable terms with retailersTiming and considerations for transitioning from e-commerce to physical retailAssessment of operational readiness and unique selling propositionsSignificance of trends and consumer preferences in the retail landscapeCriteria for identifying businesses ready for partnership with Brand Castle Growth PartnersImportance of existing online presence, customer engagement, and niche market positioningAbout Bryan Alston:Bryan Alston is a distinguished speaker, consultant, and Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) renowned for his expertise driving substantial return on investment (ROI) for burgeoning companies. His strategic prowess lies in deploying avant-garde performance marketing and growth hacking tactics that endure over time, contrasting with prevalent short-term strategies.Bryan is a versatile professional, blending classical retail expertise with cutting-edge digital marketing acumen. His distinctive approach encompasses a comprehensive understanding of the marketing landscape and ecosystem. Bryan navigates upcoming trends and draws insights from historical strategies, demonstrating a forward-thinking yet grounded perspective.About Brand Castle:Brand Castle is a dynamic operator-led growth consultancy and venture studio with a mission to propel high-potential consumer brands to the pinnacle of their respective categories. With an extensive background covering ecommerce, brick-and-mortar retail, and more, the seasoned team at Brand Castle and its expansive network provide invaluable mentorship to foster the development of iconic, enduring companies. Their goal is to steer these brands toward achieving the coveted status of number one in their markets. With decades of experience, Brand Castle positions itself as a vital resource for entrepreneurs seeking to build robust and lasting success in the competitive landscape of consumer goods.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 Brand Castle website athttps://www.brandcastle.co/Check out Brand Castle on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/brandcastlegrowth/Check out Bryan Alston on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bralston/Check out Bryan Alston on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/bryan_alston/Check out Bryan Alston on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/fjeanbartCheck out Bryan Alston on Facebook athttps://web.facebook.com/bralston11More 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder & CEO of Performance Partners, Frederic Jean-Bart.Affiliate marketing is a dynamic and powerful tool for e-commerce brands, but it's challenging. Under Fred's leadership, Performance Partners has carved out a niche in this space by helping brands build and manage effective affiliate programs. The crux of their success lies in finding the right partners and aligning with the appropriate audience—a task easier said than done.One of the primary hurdles that e-commerce brands face is identifying and collaborating with suitable affiliates. Fred underscored the necessity of a personalized approach and a robust outbound strategy to attract partners that resonate with your brand's values and goals. It's not about casting a wide net with a "spray and pray" method; it's about fostering authentic relationships with affiliates and content creators who can genuinely connect with your audience.Fred pointed out that having a solid foundation for customer acquisition is paramount before considering affiliate marketing. It's about adding to an already stable base, not relying on affiliates as the sole avenue for growth.Performance Partners prides itself on being a connector, bridging the gap between e-commerce brands and the right media buyers. They leverage their connections and expertise to ensure that their clients are ready for the market and positioned to make the most of it. Fred shared insights into the client journey and the value that Performance Partners adds by facilitating successful partnerships and ensuring their clients have access to top-tier media buyers.Key Points from the Episode:Introduction to Performance Partners and its role in affiliate marketingImportance of finding the right partners and audience for successful affiliate marketingChallenges faced by e-commerce brands in finding and working with affiliatesPersonalized approach and outbound solid strategy for attracting the right partnersBuilding authentic relationships with affiliates and content creatorsDifferent types of affiliates: influencers, content creators, and performance marketersElements for successful affiliate marketing: good creatives, well-structured funnel, and product-market fitCriteria for businesses to consider when determining readiness for affiliate marketingPerformance Partners as a connector and facilitator of successful partnershipsAbout Frederic Jean-Bart:Frederic Jean-Bart is a seasoned professional in the affiliate marketing sector, boasting over 15 years of experience. His expertise is constructing and overseeing profitable affiliate programs for Direct-to-Consumer (DTC) brands. Jean-Bart's skill set includes recruiting top direct-response affiliates skilled in various paid media channels like Email, Display, TikTok, Snapchat, Facebook, and Google. He is adept at increasing revenue while lowering acquisition costs and minimizing reliance on a limited number of channels. Much of his role involves structuring commission payouts to benefit brands and affiliates. Additionally, he excels in creating direct response content that drives immediate customer purchases and maintaining the integrity of brand, content, and messaging. Having worked in all aspects of affiliate marketing, Jean-Bart has also successfully recruited affiliates for major global DTC brands such as Goli, Onnit, and Snow Cosmetics. His primary goal is to optimize the return on affiliate marketing investments, educate clients on technical strategies, and achieve results that exceed marketing objectives.About Performance Partners:Performance Partners, established in 2021 by industry expert Frederic Jean-Bart, is an agency committed to driving business growth through affiliate marketing. Jean-Bart's 15+ years of experience in the field brings a wealth of knowledge and understanding of effective strategies in this domain. The agency primarily focuses on recruiting high-caliber affiliates and managing affiliate programs. Their team collaborates intimately with clients to craft bespoke affiliate programs tailored to meet each business's specific needs and objectives. Recognizing the distinctiveness of every client, Performance Partners aims to deliver personalized solutions that align with and drive the desired business outcomes. This client-centric approach is at the heart of their operations, ensuring that each partnership is nurtured with attention to detail and a deep understanding of the dynamics of affiliate marketing.Tweetable Moments:02:27 - "The key isn't necessarily volume; it's finding the right partner that aligns with your audience—that's the thing that matters more."04:34 - "Affiliate marketing could be an amazing channel for you, but there's a lot of content out there making false claims about how quickly you'll see results."14:26 - "You need to have good creatives, a funnel, and product market fit because affili

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Passionate Startup & Ecommerce Builder of Viably, Oz Merchant.One of the most pressing issues Oz discussed was the difficulty e-commerce sellers face when accessing capital. For many of these entrepreneurs, purchasing inventory represents a substantial outlay, and without adequate funding, sustaining and growing their business can be a struggle. Viably tackles this challenge head-on by providing banking and funding solutions tailored to e-commerce sellers. Traditional banks often need more physical assets typically required as collateral to serve these businesses. Viably, however, uses a different lens, focusing on the seller's performance and future sales trends by harnessing data from e-commerce platforms.Oz emphasized the critical role of cash flow management and forecasting in the e-commerce sector. Viably doesn't just offer capital; it also provides the tools and guidance necessary for sellers to optimize their cash conversion cycle. This holistic approach ensures that businesses can access the funds they need and use them effectively to fuel growth.Oz was keen to highlight Viably's commitment to transparency and fairness in an industry where predatory lending practices are a concern. The platform operates on a flat fee model, charging a percentage as a flat fee for short-term working capital.Key Points from the Episode:Challenges e-commerce sellers face in accessing capitalUnique underwriting needs of e-commerce businessesImportance of cash flow management and forecastingTrends and opportunities in the e-commerce spaceViably's focus on banking and funding for e-commerce sellersViably's approach to underwriting e-commerce businessesImportance of access to capital for e-commerce sellersViably's tailored funding solutions for different types of e-commerce businessesViably's flat fee model for short-term working capitalAbout Oz Merchant:Oz Merchant, with over two decades of professional experience, stands as a dynamic leader and coach in sales, customer success, and e-commerce. Currently holding the position of VP of Customer Success and Support at Viably, he focuses on aiding e-commerce business owners through innovative financial solutions. Experiences across various cultures and industries enrich his global perspective, and he is proficient in three languages. Oz is dedicated to fostering growth, innovation, and customer satisfaction, aligning with Viably's goal to bolster entrepreneurs with financial agility and confidence. His role involves leading a team to ensure customer retention, satisfaction, and loyalty while driving revenue growth. He employs his sales, management, and customer service expertise to build solid relationships, understand customer objectives, and provide impactful solutions. About Viably:Viably is a comprehensive financial solution tailored for ecommerce business owners, aiming to enhance their cash flow and provide essential capital. This innovative platform integrates banking, funding, and cash flow management tools in a user-friendly app. Viably also fosters strategic partnerships and organizes events to broaden its market reach.The platform's narrative and business model are actively promoted through podcasts and webinars, appealing to potential customers, partners, and investors. Viably's sales and customer success approach is encapsulated in playbooks following a dynamic "land and expand" model. This strategy achieved impressive growth, securing over 120 new customers and laying the groundwork for a $50M debt facility within seven months.Viably offers mentorship to ecommerce founders, guiding them in scaling their businesses and preparing for successful market exits. Collaborating closely with Operations and Engineering, Viably focuses on selecting the right technologies to ensure seamless data integration and a product-led journey for its customers, demonstrating its commitment to innovation and customer-centric solutions.Tweetable Moments:05:08 - "The biggest expense for every e-commerce seller is the fact they need to buy inventory."09:03 - "There's a healthy business which is actually making profits, and when we're giving money, we're getting that money back from profits."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 Viably website athttps://www.runviably.com/Check out Viably on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/runviably/Check out Viably on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/runviably/Check out Viably on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/runviablyCheck out Oz Merchant on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ozmerchant/Check out Oz Merchant on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/ozmerchantMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got h

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Organize To Scale, Staci Gray.One of the critical takeaways Staci offered was the undeniable importance of systems and processes in business growth. As entrepreneurs, our passion drives us, but the systems we put in place turn that passion into a scalable reality.Staci drove home that without a solid foundation of documented processes, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs) and checklists, we're essentially flying blind. These tools are the bedrock of delegation and operational efficiency, allowing us to replicate success and maintain quality as we grow.Many entrepreneurs have faced resistance when it comes to documenting processes. It can feel daunting, but Staci shared some practical tips to make it more manageable. She suggested using screen sharing and recording tools to capture tasks in real-time.Staci also emphasized the value of playbooks in achieving team alignment. These comprehensive guides ensure everyone is on the same page and that tasks are executed clearly and consistently.Staci also outlined the structure of her program, which begins with a three-day strategic planning session. This intensive period is followed by 90-day reviews, which serve as checkpoints to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.Key Points from the Episode:Importance of creating systems and processes for business scalabilityChanneling passion into creating efficient systemsDocumenting processes through standard operating procedures (SOPs) and checklistsPractical tips for overcoming resistance to documenting processesValue of playbooks in aligning team members and ensuring task clarityStructure of Stacy's program: three-day strategic planning session and 90-day reviewsHolistic approach to organizing businesses for growthAbout Staci Gray:Staci Gray is a seasoned professional with over 20 years of experience helping real-world businesses scale. She focuses on bridging the gap between ideas and profits, ensuring rapid execution for tangible progress and results.Staci's vision is to free innovative leaders from operational chaos, enabling them to tackle real-world problems effectively and humanely while achieving quick profitability.She is passionate about supporting mission-driven leaders who use their ideas, influence, and intellect to create successful businesses. Staci empowers them to scale up by providing practical tools and training.Her approach ensures these leaders build a strong business foundation without compromising their core values or sacrificing personal relationships. Staci stands out for her commitment to progress, results, and the human aspect of business leadership.About Organize To Scale:Organize to Scale positions itself as an invaluable co-pilot for mission-driven leaders, aiming to simplify scaling operations. They understand that the primary challenges in business growth are personnel management and financial stability. Recognizing that hiring the right people is crucial, they emphasize establishing a strong company culture with clear processes and procedures.The services offered focus on building a foundation of character, competency, trust, transparency, and accountability. They advocate for open communication, relentless growth, and high personal responsibility. Their approach is likened to having a pack of faithful Dobermans - dedicated, hard-working, and supportive, with a therapeutic value.Organize to Scale is committed to helping businesses transform through continuous action, offering support at every stage of personal and professional growth. Their goal is to be an integral, active part of the business's journey.Tweetable Moments:01:17 - "Most entrepreneurs set out to build businesses to create some type of freedom, but they end up trapped in the very businesses designed to create their freedom."15:47 - "You can't really scale your business until you learn to scale yourself, and that is such a head game journey versus tactics."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 Organize To Scale website athttps://organizetoscale.com/Check out Organize To Scale on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/organize-to-scale/Check out Staci Gray on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/stacigray/Check out Staci Gray on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/official.staci.grayCheck out Staci Gray on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/staci_gray/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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Fusion Creative, Deevo Tindall.Deevo discussed the pivotal role of branding and the everyday hurdles founders encounter when crafting an impactful brand message. Through his journey and multiple collaborations with consultants, Deevo has mastered the art of evoking emotions and clarity in brand messaging.He delved into the brand discovery process, underscoring the necessity of a clear vision, mission, and problem-solving intent. Deevo illuminated the evolving nature of branding, advocating for adaptability and flexibility as a brand matures.Deevo offered practical advice for businesses to hone their brand messaging. He suggested focusing on the customer's journey and maintaining consistency across all touchpoints, from social media to lead nurturing and conversion.Deevo also shared the essence of surrounding oneself with a team that shares the company's vision and values. He stressed the significance of fostering relationships and community over competition.Key Points from the Episode:Overview of Fusion Creative Branding's work with small businesses and entrepreneursChallenges in crafting a compelling brand messageThe process of brand discovery and the significance of having a clear vision and missionPractical ways for businesses to develop intuitive brand messagingThe process of working with a branding agency, including the brand discovery auditInsights into the company's structure and the importance of building relationships and collaborationsAbout Deevo Tindall:Deevo Tindall is an innovative Entrepreneur, Holistic Branding Strategist, and Content Creator. With over 15 years in the corporate world, he ventured into entrepreneurship, founding Fusion Creative.Deevo specializes in bespoke branding and digital solutions, helping businesses stand out with authentic messaging. His portfolio showcases multiple successful brand launches, emphasizing authentic storytelling.Deevo's branding strategy goes beyond the surface, focusing on creating immersive experiences that resonate with audiences. He ensures every customer touchpoint at Fusion Creative is cohesive and memorable.Deevo's expertise extends to social media, SEO, and PPC, offering a full suite of solutions for business growth. He encourages unique branding, challenging businesses to embrace their uniqueness.Additionally, Deevo is a skilled storyteller and master photographer, bridging the gap between creative vision and practical execution, making him a dynamic force in the branding and digital landscape.About Fusion Creative:Fusion Creative is dedicated to enhancing businesses through innovative branding and strategic marketing. As a team of passionate professionals, Fusion Creative specializes in assisting entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, and small businesses.Their holistic approach transcends traditional marketing by becoming a strategic partner in crafting compelling brand stories, developing comprehensive strategies, and creating impactful visuals.What distinguishes Fusion Creative is its commitment to each client's success, offering personalized support and solutions tailored to specific needs. Their services range from branding strategy and content creation to social media management and paid advertising. Fusion Creative's deep understanding of business challenges and opportunities enables them to deliver effective solutions that resonate with target audiences.Their focus is on providing services and fostering a genuine partnership, guiding and supporting brands to thrive. By entrusting Fusion Creative, businesses can concentrate on their core operations, confident that their branding and marketing are expertly managed.Tweetable Moments:02:42 - "Just because you're a CEO doesn't mean that you know everything about your business or your brand."06:36 - "Discovery enables you to have this sort of clarity around your vision and your mission and your goals and your objective."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 Fusion Creative website athttps://fusioncreativebranding.com/Check out Fusion Creative on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fusion-creative-branding/Check out Fusion Creative on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/thefusioncreative/Check out Fusion Creative on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/fusioncreativebranding/Check out Fusion Creative on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/_fusioncreativeCheck out Deevo Tindall on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/fusionphotog/Check out monthly free educational webinar on marketing/brandingMore 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 man

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Board Certified Coach & Master Certified Coach, Sarah Fruehling.Sarah Fruehling is not your average business coach. Her background in positive psychology, strength-based mental health, communication, and trauma informs her unique approach to coaching.Sarah works closely with founders, owners, and C-suite executives, offering a brand proposition beyond traditional business strategies. Sarah's expertise lies in her ability to integrate an understanding of mental health systems into her coaching, which is a game-changer for many high achievers.Sarah discussed how the impact of trauma can shape the lives of high achievers and the necessity of creating spaces where individuals can confront their internal battles. Her approach fosters a safe and brave environment for clients to address their fears and struggles.Many of Sarah's clients are ambitious individuals chasing financial and time freedom. She shared that these driven personalities often encounter awakening moments that prompt them to seek her services.Sarah's coaching philosophy centers on the power of insight and action. She helps her clients understand their internal wiring and apply these insights in practical ways to design their ideal futures.She touched on the common traits of high achievers and the importance of self-celebration. Sarah pointed out that individuals are at risk of burnout without recognising their successes and prioritising self-care. High achievers need to acknowledge their accomplishments and take time to recharge.Key Points from the Episode:Introduction of Sarah Fruehling and her coaching approachThe intersection of mental health and professional coachingImpact of trauma on high achieversAwakening moments leading individuals to seek coaching servicesSignificance of insight and action in coaching approachCommon traits of high achieversImportance of self-celebration and self-careAbout Sarah Fruehling:Sarah Fruehling stands out in the coaching world with her 20+ years of experience as an entrepreneurial private practice therapist. Her expertise lies in relationship dynamics, healthy communication, and emotional intelligence, shaping her niche in coaching.At Fruehling Coaching, she leads a team of world-class coaches, each with unique backgrounds and skills. Their approach is tailored to match clients with the ideal coach, fostering personal and professional transformation.Sarah is not just a board-certified coach; she's also an expert in team dynamics and strategic planning. Her abilities in developing healthy teams are unmatched, enhancing communication, trust, accountability, and value alignment. This skill set, expert facilitation, and strategy propel companies towards their ideal futures.Furthermore, as a ForumSherpa Certified Facilitator, Sarah enhances the Forum experience through retreats focused on life balance, leadership, and legacy. She enjoys working with both new and spousal Forums.Sarah loves spending time with her family and friends outside of work, doing outdoor activities, cycling with her husband, cooking, and travelling. Her holistic approach to coaching and life reflects her commitment to helping others achieve their goals while maintaining a balanced personal life.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 Fruehling Coaching and Facilitation website athttps://fruehlingcoaching.com/Check out Fruehling Coaching and Facilitation on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/fruehlingcoaching/Check out Sarah Fruehling on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/fruehlingcoaching/Check out Sarah Fruehling  on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/fruehlingcoaching/ Check out Sarah Fruehling on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/fruehlingcoaching 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Strategist of Infinite Business Solutions Group, Chuck Leblo.Interact Business Solutions Group stands out as a beacon for companies grappling with various challenges. Chuck Leblo, at the helm of this consultancy, brings a wealth of experience to the table. The firm's approach is rooted in identifying the core issues that businesses face and tackling them head-on.Chuck recounted how his team has successfully managed projects ranging from short-term data analysis for a lojack company to comprehensive business repositioning for a virtual assistant firm. The key, he stressed, is to dig deep and find the underlying cause of a problem before devising a strategic solution.Drawing from his extensive background in telecommunications, Chuck has shaped the services offered by his company to meet the nuanced needs of the industry.He has built a network of specialists, or "fractional officers," who bring their unique expertise to the table, ensuring that each client's specific needs are precisely met. This collaborative approach has proven invaluable for small and medium-sized businesses that often face revenue generation and profitability improvement hurdlesChuck is a strong proponent of harnessing this technology to enhance various business processes. He envisions a future where generative AI streamlines content creation, marketing, data analysis, and customer engagement.Key Points from the Episode:Services provided by Interact Business Solutions GroupExamples of projects worked on by the companyImportance of identifying the root cause of a problemChuck's experience in the telecommunications industryNetwork of specialists or "fractional officers" collaborating with ChuckCommon challenges faced by small and medium-sized businessesEmerging trend of generative AI and its potential applications in businessPractical uses of generative AI in business processesAbout Chuck Leblo:Chuck Leblo, as the Chief Strategist at Interact Business Solutions Group, is pivotal in tackling intricate business challenges with customized strategies. His role centers on leveraging his profound knowledge in telecommunications, retail, electric, and business sectors.This expertise is crucial in pinpointing and resolving issues impeding client profitability and growth. Chuck's multifaceted approach involves optimizing digital media strategies, executing thorough audits, and addressing operational and sales dilemmas. His team is dedicated to producing concrete, positive results across various industries. Fundamentally, Chuck's mission is to transform obstacles into opportunities and guide clients towards achieving their maximum potential and success.This role showcases his ability to blend analytical acumen with strategic thinking, making him a key asset in navigating complex business landscapes.About Interact Business Solutions Group:Interact Business Solutions Group stands out as a problem-solving powerhouse in the complex world of modern business. The company excels in transforming challenges into opportunities, enhancing digital presence, refining operational processes, and providing strategic insights for tangible, positive outcomes.Their diverse expertise is evident in their varied projects, from digital strategy optimization for local enterprises to conducting comprehensive audits leading to significant financial savings. The group's versatility extends to serving unique industries, including music schools and helicopter manufacturers.Their success is underpinned by a deep understanding of the digital and operational landscapes, making them a go-to partner for businesses facing operational challenges, seeking digital enhancement, or needing seasoned strategic advice.With a mantra of problem-solving, Interact Business Solutions Group is dedicated to converting obstacles into successful ventures for its partners.Tweetable Moments:02:15 - "Nine times out of ten, their problem isn't really the problem; it's just the symptom of the problem."07:35 - "Sometimes you need a generalist to see the big picture.”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 Interact Business Solutions Group website athttps://www.askinteract.com/Check out Interact Business Solutions Group on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ask-interact/Check out Interact Business Solutions Group on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/goInteract/Check out Chuck Leblo on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chuckleblo/Check out Chuck Leblo  on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/socialkudoMore 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

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Co-Founder of Infinity Matrix, Ross Arntson.Ross and his team have carved out a niche for themselves by catering to what he describes as "vagabonds and rebels." These individuals are not content with the status quo and are pursuing courage, inspiration, and self-esteem that transcend societal constraints.A key component of the Infinity Process is its ability to help individuals remain focused and motivated within their existing environments. Ross shared how this approach encourages staying centered in the present moment, which allows for decision-making from a place of calmness and observation. This is crucial in a world where external chaos often leads to impulsive reactions.Ross also emphasized the significance of being mindful of what we expose ourselves to. He spoke about setting up anchors for the future, which involves deliberating the environments we create and our interactions. This mindfulness is essential for maintaining control over our surroundings.Ross highlighted the hands-on resources and programs available to assist individuals with their needs. The firm offers tools to support personal transformation from hypnosis and EFT to NLP. Ross also mentioned a new program tailored for individuals with PTSD, underscoring the importance of addressing the lingering effects of past events on our present lives.Key Points from the Episode:Unique approach of Infinity Mastery ConsultingDevelopment of the Infinity ProcessWorking with "vagabonds and rebels"Stimulating individuals within their existing environmentImportance of setting up anchors for the futureBeing mindful about what we expose ourselves toControlling our environment and interactionsHands-on approach of Infinity MatrixResources and programs offered by Infinity MatrixAbout Ross Arntson:Ross Arntson, a former CEO with a rich background in management and sales, brings over 40 years of expertise to the table. Renowned for his innovative approach, he has revolutionized traditional management and training systems. His methods significantly improve employee retention, sales skills, and overall business profitability.Arntson integrates advanced techniques like neurolinguistic programming, timeline and Hypnotherapy, and emotional freedom techniques. In collaboration with Garry Johnson, he co-created The Infinity Process. These methodologies are not just theoretical; they've been applied successfully in real business scenarios.Ross's consulting in business management and peak performance is grounded in practical application. His programs, applicable in diverse business environments from boardrooms to frontline operations, have been thoroughly field-tested to ensure high-performance outcomes.About Infinity Matrix:The Infinity Matrix, co-founded by Ross Arntson, is not about simulated realities or dystopian narratives. Instead, it's an innovative concept that redefines our understanding of reality and our role in shaping it. Far from fostering a victim mentality, the Infinity Matrix empowers individuals to acknowledge their significant role in crafting their experiences and reality.At its core, the Infinity Matrix is a metaphor for what we perceive as our "Individual Reality." It combines the concepts of "Infinity" - representing the limitless nature of space, time, energy, and matter - and "Matrix," signifying the environment or structure where something develops. This fusion creates an environment where experiences and non-experiences unfold continuously.This concept highlights the dynamic interplay between our internal and external realities, converging at "NOW." In this center of infinite choices, individuals can shape their reality. The Infinity Matrix emphasizes being present and making conscious choices in the moment, which is seen as the most potent state for creating one's reality.Reflecting on the teachings of Gurdjieff, the Infinity Matrix suggests that the key to enriching life lies in intentionally bridging the inner and outer world struggles. This connection fosters the soul's development, representing a higher level of existence and understanding.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 Infinity Matrix website athttps://hackingtheinfinitymatrix.com/Check out Infinity Matrix on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/success-with-class/Check out Infinity Matrix on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/theinfinitymatrix/Check out Infinity Matrix on Twitter athttps://Twitter.com/infinitymatrx Check out Ross Arntson on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/rossarntson/Check out Ross Arntson on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/RossArntsonCheck out Ross Arntson on Facebook athttps://facebook.com/rossarntsonMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Success With Class, Steven Calascione.The pandemic has been a catalyst for change for many, and Steve's story is a testament to the resilience and adaptability required in these times. After being laid off from his corporate job in midtown Manhattan, Steve, alongside his wife, made the bold decision to pivot entirely.They ventured into the world of property management, starting from scratch. With a robust marketing and sales campaign, they rapidly grew their business to a seven-figure revenue stream within two years.However, Steve's aspirations didn't stop at running a successful business. He discovered a deeper passion for helping other entrepreneurs navigate the real estate sector. This realization led him to sell his thriving property management business and establish Success With Class, where he now serves as a coach and mentor to up-and-coming entrepreneurs.Steve shared valuable insights from his book, "Service Business Mastery: The Blueprint to Scaling Your Startup to Seven Figures and Beyond." This resource is a goldmine for service-based entrepreneurs eager to deliver exceptional service and scale their operations. Steve's philosophy centers on over-delivering on promises and fostering long-term client relationships, crucial for repeat business and referrals.Key Points from the Episode:Steve's journey from being laid off during the pandemic to starting a successful property management businessTransitioning to coaching and helping other entrepreneurs in the real estate sectorInsights into effective marketing and sales strategies for service-based businessesGrowth potential in the property management sectorImportance of outstanding customer service and effective marketing and sales strategiesImportance of over-delivering on promises and building long-term relationships with clientsAbout Steven Calascione:Steven Calascione is a dynamic entrepreneur and coach, steering service-based small businesses towards their first million in revenue. With over a decade of varied business experiences, his approach is a blend of strategic planning, hands-on management, and fostering a growth mindset.His expertise lies in formulating and executing strategies, leveraging his deep sales, marketing, and event production knowledge. Steven aids clients in designing profitable, scalable, and sustainable business models, focusing on refining business processes, revenue streams, and marketing tactics to thrive in ever-changing markets.More than just a strategist, Steven enhances his clients' capabilities through sales training, leadership development, and streamlining business operations. His goal is to empower businesses to achieve success and maintain it.Steven is also the host of the 'Service Business Success' podcast, where he shares insights and interviews successful entrepreneurs, offering practical advice and motivation. As a professional speaker, he spreads his wisdom on entrepreneurship, business growth, leadership, and marketing, aiming to inspire and educate a broader audience.About Success With Class:Success with Class, founded by Steven Calascione, is a coaching agency that marks his proudest achievement in a career filled with entrepreneurial success. This coaching agency is Calascione's platform for guiding and inspiring emerging entrepreneurs.Within just three years, Calascione successfully launched and grew three service-based businesses, each surpassing the million-dollar revenue mark. His mission is clear and driven by his rich experience: to ensure that the entrepreneurial journey of his clients is as exhilarating and successful as his own.In his agency, Calascione focuses on crucial aspects of business growth, such as the importance of following up with qualified prospects to increase sales closing percentages.He emphasizes the need for a systematic approach to follow-ups, personalization of communication, and providing value in each interaction, essential for building strong customer relationships and driving sales success.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 Success With Class website athttps://successwithclass.webflow.io/Check out Success With Class on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/success-with-class/Check out Steven Calascione on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-calascione-7121b3a8/Check out Steven Calascione on Instagram athttps://www.instagram.com/steveyclass/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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of Trinsic Technologies, Art Powell.Art Powell brought a wealth of knowledge on how AI is reshaping the business landscape. At Intrinsic Technologies, they're not just observers of this revolution; they're active participants, crafting AI solutions that propel businesses forward. One such innovation is AVOS, a product that exemplifies the company's commitment to leveraging AI for strategic advantage.Implementing AI is about a strategic overhaul of business operations. Art emphasized the need for a careful and considered approach. It's not enough to jump on the AI bandwagon; companies must integrate these technologies to align with their long-term goals and operational frameworks.Art also announced an exciting development: the launch of a new podcast dedicated to discussing technology and AI integration. Drawing from his lessons, this podcast aims to be a resource for those looking to understand and apply AI in their businesses. Keep an eye on Intrinsic Technologies' website and the podcast for updates on this venture.Key Points from the Episode:Impact of AI on businessesChallenges and opportunities of AIWork of Intrinsic Technologies with AIProduct called AVOSStrategic implementation of AI in business operationsAbout Art Powell:Art Powell stands at the crossroads of technology, entrepreneurship, and community spirit. As the founder and CEO of Trinsic Technologies, he's transformed the Austin-based IT firm into a tech titan since 2005.Boasting over 25 years in the tech field, including stints at IBM and PCOrder.com, Art's deep expertise paved the way for Trinsic's success.Under his leadership, Trinsic has become synonymous with cutting-edge IT services, known for its "technology built by humans for humans" ethos.Art is also a family man, celebrating over three decades of marriage and the joys of parenting two kids. Beyond business, Art is deeply involved in his community, teaching theology at his non-denominational church and enjoying video and role-playing games.Art's faith journey began at 21, and his interests span science, business, technology, and theology. These diverse passions fuel his engaging discussions.Recently, Trinsic's partnership with AI innovator AHvos is set to redefine AI technology. AHvos specializes in unbiased AI and "Context Responsive Intelligence," aiming for transparent and continuously updated AI solutions. This alliance sees Trinsic hosting AHvos' AI engines, marking a significant step in Art's vision of integrating top-notch tech with exceptional service.About Trinsic Technologies:Established in 2005, Trinsic Technologies excels in providing bespoke, flexible, managed IT services and business technology solutions. Primarily serving small and medium-sized businesses in Central Texas and beyond, Trinsic is dedicated to enhancing business value and peace of mind through robust IT systems that are consistently operational, secure, and performing optimally.The company prides itself on a unique approach to managed IT. Eschewing one-size-fits-all solutions, Trinsic offers varied services tailored to the specific needs of its diverse clientele. This includes 24/7 support with a guaranteed 15-minute response time, ensuring fast and reliable IT assistance.Trinsic’s vision is to transform the way businesses handle IT. They aim to take the IT worries off their clients' plates, allowing them to focus oTrinsic'ss growth, backed by Trinsic's expert technology support.They specialize in serving clients in highly client industries or those heavily dependent on stable technology for forensics performance. Understanding the critical nature of uninterrupted service, data protection, and compliance, Trinsic embeds these priorities in all its services.Tweetable Moments:02:14 - "You cannot take AI and just dump it into your operations and go 'we're integrated.' That's not how it's going to work."17:40 - "Technology is here to serve humans, not the other way around. And sometimes when you hear them talk about AI, they talk as if we're here to serve the AI."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 Trinsic Technologies website athttps://trinsictech.com/Check out Trinsic Technologies on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bluecase-strategic-partners/Check out Trinsic Technologies on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/TrinsicTechnologies/Check out Art Powell on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/artpowelltrinsic/Check out Art Powell on Twitter athttps://twitter.com/savebyjMore 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 UpM

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Virtira Consulting Inc., Shane Spraggs.The world of work has undergone a seismic shift in the past few years. Remote work, once a perk, has become a necessity and, for many, a preferred mode of operation. Shane Spraggs is at the forefront of this transformation, leading Vertira, an operations and project management company that excels in the virtual space.Shane's book, "The Power of Remote," is not just a testament to the current trends but a guidebook for leaders looking to harness the potential of remote work. During our talk, Shane delved into the strategies and practices that make remote organizations survive and thrive.One of the main topics he explored was the art of building high-performing teams in a virtual environment. Shane emphasized the importance of clear communication, robust processes, and the right tools to keep teams aligned and productive. He shared examples of how Vertira implements these practices to achieve remarkable results.Shane discussed the various tools and platforms that facilitate collaboration and project management. He highlighted how Vertira leverages these technologies to streamline operations and maintain a competitive edge.Key Points from the Episode:Shane Spraggs, CEO of VirtiraBuilding high-performing organizations in the virtual workplaceOperations and project managementRemote work strategiesThriving in a virtual workplaceThe impact of remote work on organizationsStrategies for success in a virtual environmentThe power of remote workAbout Shane Spraggs:Shane Spraggs is a notable figure in media and software start-ups with over 25 years of experience. He's significantly impacted Virtira as CEO, enhancing productivity for Fortune 100 clients through innovative systems and strategies, particularly for remote teams. His problem-solving skills are highly acclaimed, especially in addressing complex organizational issues for sustainable success. Shane co-authored "The Power of Remote" in 2023, a best-seller providing insights on modern team management. He's also a seasoned speaker, adept in various formats, including podcasts and roundtable discussions. Shane's expertise centers on enhancing remote work culture, strategic planning, and project management. Shane excels in creating productive environments for remote teams and preparing them for remote challenges. His approach combines research with practical experience, offering tangible strategies for organizational improvement. He offers in-person and virtual sessions, sharing his knowledge and experience.About Virtira Consulting Inc.:Virtira specializes in enhancing remote work performance. Amid the rise of hybrid work environments, Virtira leverages its extensive experience in remote operations to assist companies in improving sales, accelerating growth, and boosting productivity, regardless of their physical office presence.Emphasizing a 'Work Without Boundaries' philosophy, Virtira rejects traditional office constraints, advocating for a barrier-free approach to work and creativity. This ethos is grounded in believing that great ideas and high performance aren't confined to office cubicles. With over a decade of running a highly productive remote organization, Virtira has successfully empowered teams at Fortune 500 companies, helping them achieve beyond their perceived limits. Virtira's approach redefines conventional workspace notions, proving that significant achievements and innovation can originate from anywhere, unhindered by physical boundaries. Their impact is evident in the substantial improvements in the capabilities and output of the teams they've collaborated with.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guesLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Virtira Consulting Inc. website athttps://www.virtira.com/Check out Virtira Consulting Inc. on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/virtira/Check out Shane Spraggs on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-spraggs/Check out Shane Spraggs on Instagram Threads athttps://www.threads.net/@shanespraggsMore 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

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & Director of LDC Strategies, Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia.Lori Anne is a success coach who propels high achievers toward realising their personal and professional goals. She has a unique ability to help individuals on the cusp of action but find themselves stuck and unable to leap.Lori Anne explained that 92% of people fail to take decisive action towards their dreams. They may take a few steps but often get bogged down by justifiable excuses or mental blocks. As a take-action coach, Lori Anne's mission is to eliminate these excuses and strategize a clear path for her clients to soar to success.Lori Anne uses the analogy of a super ball to describe high achievers. Like the ball, they have the energy and potential to bounce in all directions, but they need to be thrown in a straight line towards their goal. She helps her clients harness their energy, focus on their zone of genius, and strategically shelve distractions until the right time.Lori Anne has developed a six-step system to help clients launch or expand their businesses, maximize revenue streams, and systemize their operations. This approach allows for more downtime, crucial for creativity and overall well-being.Lori Anne's book, "Women Who Dream," is a collaborative effort with 30 authors sharing their insights. It's a must-read for anyone uncomfortable and looking for a new perspective. The book encourages readers to focus on their wants, dream big, and set actionable goals.Key Points from the Episode:Creating consistent and predictable sales activity without spam or adsWorking with high achievers to accelerate their potential and achieve personal and professional goalsIdentifying and overcoming mental blocks and excuses to achieve successImplementing standard operating procedures and systems to maximize business revenueFinding and staying in the zone of genius to increase productivity and satisfactionA six-step system to launch, maximize, and systemize a businessThe book "Women Who Dream" and its focus on making choices and setting big dreams and goalsDreaming big and setting goals for the futureTaking action and becoming part of the 8% of action takersAbout Lori Anne De Iulio Casdia:Lori Anne is a multifaceted professional dedicated to empowering business owners and executives. As a Certified Professional Transformational Success Coach & Strategist, she specializes in building strategies and structures, offering support and accountability to turn ambitious dreams into realities. Her accolades include being a #1 International Best Selling Author and a Personal Development Success Coach. Lori Anne hosts the radio show 'Healthy Lifestyle with Lori Anne,' and is recognized for her impactful speaking engagements.She is renowned for identifying 'Super Ball Syndrome' and creating the 'TAKE ACTION WITH JET PROPULSION' program, inspiring people to act and monetize their messages. Lori Anne excels in activating behavioral changes, guiding individuals from confusion to clarity, disrupting limiting beliefs, boosting confidence, and honing communication skills to achieve personal and professional goals.Featured on Jack Canfield's TV show and various media platforms, she has shared stages with notable figures like William Paul Young & Dr. Debi Silber. Lori Anne has authored two books, including the #1 International Best Seller "Women Who Dream".Her passion is intuitively coaching clients to breakthroughs and realizing their visions through diverse platforms like retreats, programs, and live events.About LDC Strategies:LDC Strategies is a dynamic consulting firm led by Lori Anne, specializing in various services, including Success Coaching, Strategy, Marketing Positioning, Business Consulting, and Personal Development. They are committed to guiding individuals and businesses from their current state to their desired goals. Their highly personalized approach focuses on understanding clients' passions and tailoring strategies to align with their objectives. LDC Strategies offers diverse programs, such as the Soar to Success™ series, which encompasses setting clear intentions, overcoming internal resistance, and engaging ideal clients. They also emphasize the importance of increasing visibility and leveraging effective systems for sustainable results. Their website features PR ducts and events, including ment"ring packages and business courses designed for long-term personal and professional growth. LDC Strategies' philosophy centers on transforming lives and businesses by embracing new possibilities and facilitating profound Strategies'.Tweetable Moments:02:12 - "High achievers have the fire in the belly; they'll show up for themselves and they want to succeed, but they're in a place of not knowing where to go."08:12- "It's none of our business what anybody else thinks, and when you start thinking like that, you really start focusing on what yo

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & Director of N-Stinctive, Rosie Tomkins.Rosie is not only the author of the insightful book "Instinctive: The Power of Natural Intelligence" but also the founder of Instinctive and the mind behind the new book "Let Nature Be Your Compass."Rosie illuminated the concept of natural intelligence and its critical role in decision-making. Unlike the more commonly known forms of intelligence such as IQ (Intellectual Quotient) and EQ (Emotional Quotient), NQ taps into our innate ability to perceive, instinctively understand, and act swiftly from a place of deep knowing. Rosie's work positions NQ as a complementary form of intelligence that enhances our traditional cognitive abilities and emotional understanding.Rosie passionately spoke about the foundational elements of leadership that are often overlooked. She stressed the importance of self-leadership, which involves having faith in one's judgment and the confidence to make decisions, particularly during challenging times. She also touched on the concept of energetic transfer and how leaders can influence their environment through their energy. The conversation highlighted the significance of connection, courage, and ownership in cultivating leadership qualities.One of the profound insights Rosie shared was the value of internal validation over external approval. She believes that true leadership comes from within and that seeking validation from others can detract from one's ability to lead authentically.Key Points from the Episode:Introduction to Rosie Tomkins and her work in natural intelligence and leadership developmentExplanation of natural intelligence (NQ) and its role in decision-makingImportance of self-leadership, energetic transfer, connection, courage, and ownership in leadership developmentDifferentiation between natural intelligence and emotional and spiritual intelligenceApplication of natural intelligence in real-life situationsConsequences of not embracing natural intelligence in leadershipInsights from Rosie's new book, "Let Nature Be Your Compass"Tactical and actionable advice for listeners to employ natural intelligence in their livesEmphasis on observing and learning from nature for resilience and challenging human thinkingAbout Rosie Tomkins:Rosie Tomkins is an acclaimed Executive and Leadership Coach, author, and advocate for integrating nature's wisdom into business leadership. Her career, spanning over three decades, is marked by her role as CEO of N-Stinctive, where she offers unique leadership development experiences. These include Inspirational Team Development Days, Online Business Courses, and Equine Retreats near Bath, providing a nature-immersed environment for holistic leadership growth.Renowned for her transformative approach, Rosie specializes in leading through complexity, promoting self-belief, and fostering a competitive edge in today's dynamic business landscape. Her expertise covers transformation, innovation, and leadership expansion, catering to a diverse client base, including elite sports teams, pharmaceutical companies, and creative agencies. Notable clients include the NHS, Pfizer, and the Olympic Hockey Team.Her coaching philosophy is grounded in NLP, somatic, and ontological coaching, focusing on harnessing individual inner power to enhance leadership effectiveness. Rosie's latest book, "Let Nature Be Your Compass," released on October 31st, offers insights into human-nature connectivity and its impact on personal and business development. This follows her earlier work, "N-stinctive: The Power of Natural Intelligence," which explores natural intelligence in leadership. Both books offer practical, applicable strategies for readers.Rosie Tomkins stands out as a transformative leader, blending natural wisdom with modern leadership techniques and guiding individuals towards professional and personal growth. About N-Stinctive:N-Stinctive is an innovative leadership development organization known for its unorthodox yet highly effective methods. The core of its approach is to uncover and harness hidden strengths within individuals and teams, transforming them into impactful assets for businesses. N-Stinctive specializes in rapidly enhancing team engagement, purpose, and impact, making it particularly valuable for organizations seeking quick and meaningful improvements in team dynamics.Utilizing expert facilitators, N-Stinctive employs stimulating and unforgettable challenges. These are designed to reveal and leverage untapped resources within teams. Such an approach identifies strengths and prepares teams to face upcoming challenges with renewed vigor and capability. The immediate applicability of the methods used by N-Stinctive allows leaders to be deployed more effectively post-training, leading to a surge in creativity, innovation, and productivity.The diversity of the teams is a crucial asp

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Growth Officer & CEO of BLUECASE, David Greenspan & Justin Follin. Justin and David have dedicated their careers to elevating mid-market companies by forging high-performing teams. Their approach is a blend of strategic planning and leadership development designed to harness a company's collective intelligence, creativity, and innovation. The goal? To enhance performance, accelerate scaling, and cultivate extraordinary company cultures. Justin and David illuminated the workplace concept where everyone can contribute fully and collaborate seamlessly. They highlighted a common hurdle in today's organizations: disengagement. It's a challenge that many face, yet few overcome. According to them, the key lies in building teams proficient in communication, listening, and the art of feedback—skills foundational to engagement and a flourishing company culture. David shared his insights on strategic planning, emphasizing the necessity of a clear and differentiated strategy that can be distilled onto a single page. This clarity is not just about having a direction but about articulating it in a way that resonates with the entire team. Leadership systems and a culture of continuous improvement were also underscored as vital components of a successful strategy. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Justin Follin and David Greenspan, co-founders of Blue Case Blue Case's focus on strategic planning and leadership development for mid-market companies The importance of creating a culture for people to contribute fully and work effectively Challenges of working in organizations and default disengagement in companies Emphasizing the need for effective communication, listening, and feedback in teams Importance of clear, differentiated strategy articulated on one page Discussion on leadership systems and creating a culture of continuous improvement Commendation of the book "Be a Better Team by Friday: A Playbook for High-Performance Business Leaders." Tips for better meetings, including defining purpose, justifying attendance, and implementing effective practices About David Greenspan: David B. Greenspan, PhD., is a distinguished figure in leadership development as the founder and Chief Growth Officer of BLUECASE Strategic Partners. Based in Austin, Texas, since its inception in 2014, his consultancy focuses on strategic planning, executive coaching, and fostering high-performance cultures in rapidly expanding companies. Alongside this, he emphasizes the importance of cross-functional collaboration and feedback-rich environments. As a co-author of the Amazon best-selling book "Be a Better Team by Friday: A Playbook for High-Performance Business Leaders," David offers CEOs and executives practical strategies for scaling company growth and nurturing effective team dynamics. His expertise lies in high-performance psychology, analyzing the mechanics behind exceptional individual and team performances in challenging conditions. With a Ph.D. in High-Performance Psychology, David is renowned for creating transformative corporate cultures and teams. He has over fifteen years of experience advising senior executives in Fortune 100 companies and executive teams in fast-growing, private equity-backed businesses. He is recognized for his ability to inspire and achieve extraordinary results. About Justin Follin: Justin Follin, the co-founder and CEO of BLUECASE Strategic Partners, is a crucial figure in leadership development and executive coaching. Based in Austin, Texas, his company, established in 2014, specializes in strategic planning and improving cross-functional collaboration and engagement in fast-growing companies. Justin co-authored the Amazon best-seller, "Be a Better Team by Friday: A Playbook for High-Performance Business Leaders," a guide for CEOs and executives focused on scaling company growth and fostering team culture. A trusted advisor to CEOs in rapidly expanding sectors, Justin has coached leaders in companies with revenues between $20 million and $2 billion. His expertise extends to coaching various professionals, from TEDx presenters to musicians. A graduate of the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Justin holds a degree in Philosophy with a focus on business and ethics. He enjoys music, yoga, and frequent visits to Barton Springs pool in his leisure time. About BLUECASE: BLUECASE Strategic Partners is a strategic consultancy specialising in harnessing untapped organisational potential. Catering to CEOs, top leaders, and team managers, BLUECASE aims to facilitate extraordinary growth and performance improvements. Their approach integrates High-Performance Leadership Development Programs, Strategic Planning, and Executive Coaching to address companies' challenges during rapid growth. Acknowledging that many companies operate below their potential, often due to underperforming teams, especially under pr

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & CEO of Octain, Clare Price. Claire Price brought her extensive background as an analyst and research director for Gartner, greatly influencing her marketing approach. She passionately spoke about the necessity of a systematic approach to marketing, especially for small business owners who often face significant challenges in this area. One of Claire's most impactful points was about the value of building long-term relationships. She explained how these relationships could significantly impact business success, emphasizing that marketing is not just about transactions but about creating lasting connections with customers. Claire introduced listeners to Octain, which she described as the first true marketing operating system designed specifically for small businesses. Octane aims to replace inefficient trial-and error-marketing with a sustainable, systematic approach. Claire outlined how Octane provides a turnkey system encompassing strategy, smart execution, and automation, all crucial for supporting small businesses in their marketing endeavors. She also shed light on the role of growth architects, who are instrumental in implementing the Octane system. These architects work closely with businesses to ensure the marketing operating system is tailored to their needs and goals. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of systematic approach to marketing for small and medium-sized businesses Challenges faced by small business owners in marketing Value of building long-term relationships for business success Introduction of Octain as a marketing operating system for small businesses Turnkey system of sustainable marketing operations provided by Octane Role of growth architects in implementing the Octain system The target audience for leveraging the Octain operating system Overview of the book "Smart Marketing Execution" and its resources for small business owners Emphasis on effective execution and integrating automation systems in marketing About Clare Price: Clare Price, CEO of Octain Growth Systems in Raleigh, NC, specializes in scalable growth and is a luminary in B2B marketing strategies. Her expertise is distilled in her book, "Smart Marketing Execution," guiding businesses from haphazard marketing to sustainable, profit-boosting operations. Previously, Clare honed her skills as a Research Director at Gartner's Internet Strategies Service and Vice President of Research at Demand Metric. A prolific writer, she's authored five marketing playbooks, a remote work guide, and the cyberthriller "Web of Betrayal." Clare is a sought-after speaker, engaging with organizations like the American Marketing Association and Women in Technology International. Beyond her professional endeavors, Clare is an amateur ornithologist and adores her Shetland sheepdogs, Toby and Ashton. About Octain: Octain Growth System revolutionizes business growth through its integrated marketing operating system, combining strategy, smart execution, and automation. It starts by crafting strategic blueprints in six key areas: brand positioning, customer acquisition, message clarity, market expansion, sales enablement, and product innovation. Using a proprietary decision framework, Octain develops a roadmap for smart execution, aligning actions with goals. The final step involves automating marketing and sales activities, ensuring sustainable boosts in performance and productivity. The outcome is a transformative shift from erratic, inefficient marketing to a sustainable, operationally efficient approach, leading to significant business 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 Octain website at https://octaingrowth.com/ Check out Octain on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/octain/ Check out Clare Price on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/clareprice/ 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Coach & Speaker of Lucky Hunter, Tatiana Melnichuk. Lucky Hunter has carved out a niche in the global market as an international recruitment agency with a laser focus on IT staffing. With over six years of experience and main offices in London and Dubai, they've established themselves as a key player in connecting top IT talent with companies worldwide. Tatiana Melnichuk, the driving force behind Lucky Hunter, shared that their approach is client-centric, tailoring their services to meet the unique needs of companies rather than individual candidates. One of the core principles that Tatiana emphasized was the importance of understanding clients' specific requirements. In the ever-evolving IT landscape, flexibility is paramount. Lucky Hunter prides itself on adapting its recruitment process to align with the dynamic demands of the industry, ensuring that the right talent is matched with the right opportunity. Tatiana noted the ongoing tug-of-war between candidates' desire for flexibility and companies' need for collaboration. She predicts that a hybrid work model may emerge as the solution, balancing the benefits of remote work with the collaborative spirit of traditional office settings. Delving deeper into the recruitment process, Tatiana underscored the necessity of effective communication and partnership with clients. It's a balancing act where understanding the aspirations of candidates and companies' vision is crucial for successful placements. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Lucky Hunter, an international recruitment agency specializing in IT staffing Challenges in the recruitment industry Demand for IT staffing and the growth of the market Working with clients and understanding their specific requirements Impact of remote work on staffing and the potential for a hybrid model Geographical reach of Lucky Hunter's clients and their global market presence Insights into the recruitment process and the importance of effective communication Diverse client base, with a significant portion based in the US Commitment to delivering high-quality service and building strong relationships with clients About Tatiana Melnichuk: Tatiana Melnichuk is a highly skilled IT recruitment specialist, boasting over a decade of rich experience in the field. Her journey is marked by significant collaborations with international startups and esteemed IT companies, highlighting her expertise in navigating the dynamic landscape of tech talent acquisition. Her entrepreneurial spirit led her to establish Lucky Hunter in 2017, where she excels as the CEO. Before founding her company, Melnichuk honed her skills as an HR Business Partner, contributing to the growth of startups in the UK, Denmark, and the USA. Her role involved strategic HR management, aligning talent acquisition with business goals, a skill she undoubtedly carried into her current venture. At Lucky Hunter, Melnichuk has created a notable presence, gaining global recognition. Her leadership and deep understanding of the tech recruitment world continue to drive the company's success, making it a go-to partner for companies seeking the best IT talent. Melnichuk's journey is a testament to her dedication and prowess in the IT recruitment sector. About Lucky Hunter: Lucky Hunter is a distinguished international IT recruitment agency, known for its extensive 13-year experience in global recruiting. Specializing in building successful IT teams, the agency has significantly impacted companies worldwide. The team at Lucky Hunter is not just about filling positions; they prioritize selective recruitment. They invest time to deeply understand their clients' specific needs and goals. This meticulous approach ensures that only the most relevant candidates are presented, leading to a remarkably low replacement rate and reinforcing their reputation for excellence in the industry. Speed and efficiency are hallmarks of Lucky Hunter's service. Remarkably, they can present the first candidates to clients within four workdays. Additionally, they offer a unique safety net: free candidate replacements if they leave before the end of their probationary period. Startups find Lucky Hunter particularly appealing due to attractive discounts tailored for them. With offices in key locations like Dubai, London, Yerevan, and Astana, Lucky Hunter is well-positioned to cater to IT staffing needs globally. They bridge language barriers and geographical boundaries, ensuring the perfect IT professional match for any team. Their innovative use of a neuroscientific approach further enhances their ability to identify the ideal specialist for each organization. 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 Lucky Hunter website at https://luckyhunter.co.uk/ Check out Lucky Hunter on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Author and Marketing Technology Trailblazer of Modern Revenue Strategies, Mark Osborne. Mark Osborne is a seasoned expert who has worked with CEOs, founders, and sales leaders in early-stage B2B firms. His focus is on helping these companies build systems for generating revenue. This includes attracting the right prospects, accelerating deals through the sales pipeline, and activating existing clients for renewals, upsells, referrals, and testimonials. One of the key points Mark emphasized during our conversation was the importance of understanding the ideal customer and their buying journey. Mark believes many companies must take the time to truly understand their customers and context, leading to ineffective marketing strategies and wasted ad spending. Mark suggests a differentiated positioning strategy is crucial for creating awareness and generating demand at the top of the funnel. He advises relying on advertising or content with a clear differentiation from competitors. Mark's approach to working with clients starts with a diagnostic to identify strengths and weaknesses in their revenue systems. He can create a 90-day plan to accelerate growth by diagnosing the areas of opportunity. Mark highlighted that his clients often experience a doubling of leads within the first 90 days and offer a 10x ROI guarantee within six months. Mark emphasized the need to focus on the ideal customer profile and craft messaging that resonates with them rather than trying to be a perfect fit for everyone. By attracting the right prospects, businesses can move faster through the sales pipeline and achieve more renewals, upsells, and referrals, ultimately dominating the marketplace. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of understanding the ideal customer and their buying journey Creating a differentiated positioning strategy Challenges of lead generation Need for a holistic view of the customer journey The changing landscape of B2B marketing accelerated by the pandemic Importance of patience and empathy in understanding the customer's experience The trend of buyers wanting to distance themselves from vendors The importance of focusing on the ideal customer profile and crafting resonating messaging Mark's approach to working with clients, including a diagnostic and 90-day plan About Mark Osborne: Mark Osborne, recognized as a "Marketing Technology Trailblazer" by AdAge Magazine in 2017, boasts extensive experience crafting Revenue Systems for SaaS, Technology, and B2B Services firms. Mark's expertise lies in integrating Sales, Marketing, and Customer Success strategies, particularly for organizations navigating complex sales cycles and intricate buying committees to secure substantial contracts. A seasoned communicator and team leader, Mark excels in researching markets, competitive positioning, and executing creative Go-To-Market strategies. His proficiency extends to Demand Generation, Lead Generation, and Revenue Growth through Account-Based Marketing, Sales, and Customer Advocacy programs. Mark's accessible insights cater to C-Suite, Marketing, and Sales Leaders adapting to the evolving B2B landscape. Beyond his professional pursuits, he enjoys sport fishing, indulging in Tiki drinks, and catching the latest movies with his wife. About Modern Revenue Strategies: Modern Revenue Strategies offers CEOs and Sales Leaders of early-stage SaaS, Tech, and B2B Services firms a sanity-saving approach to business growth. Unlike traditional tactics and fleeting growth hacks, the focus is on proven marketing strategy, delivering predictable growth and often doubling revenue and pipeline within three months. The system emphasizes scalable processes over ad spending and growth-chasing, with many clients experiencing a remarkable 10X Return on Investment. The B2B Growth Systems provided by Modern Revenue Strategies liberate businesses from financial uncertainties and campaign prioritization struggles, allowing leaders to concentrate on customer service and product development. Their #1 Best Selling B2B Marketing Book on Amazon unveils a Proven 5-step Growth Framework, addressing key aspects like attracting the right prospects, accelerating deal pipelines, and activating renewals, upsells, and referrals. Offering a cost-effective alternative to hiring a full-time marketing executive, Modern Revenue Strategies is designed to guide companies through the $1M to $20M ARR growth phase, delivering top-notch solutions for marketing leadership and propelling them to the next stage of success. Tweetable Moments: 12:40 - “ What happens is when you don't have systems in place to attract the right prospects and then work them through the process, you wind up with sort of the leftovers in the marketplace.” 14:20 - “The default of the lazy marketer or the lazy PR person is just spray and pray.” 16:26 - “You're better than your competitors yet just talk about why y

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Executive Coach & Speaker, Dan Gordon. A fascinating concept that Coach Dan introduced was the idea of a "qualified no." This is when a prospect declines your offer with a valid reason that keeps the door open for future engagement. It's not the end of the conversation; it's an invitation to stay connected and revisit the opportunity when the time is right. The importance of maintaining a connection with prospects, even after a "no," cannot be overstated. Coach Dan advised that we should always leave the lines of communication open. This means following up, providing additional value, and showing that you're still interested in their success, regardless of whether they've made a purchase. One of the critical takeaways Coach Dan shared is the importance of empathy in sales. He stressed that to connect with our prospects truly, we must first understand their fears and hesitations. It's not just about pushing a product or service; it's about listening to their concerns and addressing them head-on. Coach Dan also highlighted the significance of relentless service. In a world where everyone is selling something, the differentiator is often how much you're willing to go above and beyond for your clients. This means not only meeting their expectations but exceeding them whenever possible. Key Points from the Episode: Authentic selling and building connections with potential clients Understanding and addressing the fears and hesitations of prospects The value of relentless service and asking The concept of a "qualified no" The importance of staying connected with prospects About Dan Gordon: Dan Gordon, an executive coach and speaker, has carved a niche in empowering entrepreneurs to harness their inherent 'superpowers.' He believes everyone has unique abilities, often unrecognized, that can drive remarkable success. His approach revolves around the concept that entrepreneurs naturally confront challenges and fears others shy away from, demonstrating a rare courage and resilience. Gordon has dedicated himself to guiding thousands of entrepreneurs for over twenty years. His coaching focuses on amplifying these inherent strengths, enabling individuals to realize and utilize their full potential. His methods are tailored to help entrepreneurs achieve success more rapidly and effectively than they might. Gordon's philosophy centers on the idea that entrepreneurial courage and the willingness to face potential failure are skills and unique qualities that set individuals apart. By fostering these traits, he aids his clients in recognizing their unique abilities and leveraging them for more significant personal and professional achievements. Tweetable Moments: 04:20 - "Nobody wants to buy a fire extinguisher when everything's fine. You always want the thing when you need it the least." 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 Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC website at https://dangordonenterprise.com/coaching/ Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/dangordonenterprise/ Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on Instagram at www.twitter.com/DG_Enterprise Check out Dan Gordon Enterprise, LLC on Twitter at www.twitter.com/DG_Enterprise Check out Dan Gordon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachdangordon/ Check out Dan Gordon on Twitter at http://twitter.com/ElderLawGeorgia Check out Dan Gordon on Facebook at www.facebook.com/dangordon99 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Owner of Quid Pro Quo, Victoria Collier. Victoria Collier brings a wealth of knowledge to the table with her expertise in guiding lawyers through the sale of their practices. Her approach is about finding a buyer and ensuring that law firm owners can find their life after the law. This involves a comprehensive strategy that includes positioning the firm for sale and acting as a broker to connect with the right buyer. One of the key topics we discussed was how small law firm owners could prepare their firms to be attractive acquisition targets. Victoria stressed the importance of shifting one's mindset from being a practitioner to embracing the role of a business owner. This shift is crucial in building assets within the firm that go beyond revenue generation. A predictable income and robust production systems are vital in demonstrating the firm's stability and potential for growth. Operational procedures and transparent workflows add to the firm's value, showcasing a well-organized and efficient practice that a buyer could easily integrate into their existing operations. Victoria talked through the engagement process with Quid Pro Quo Law, which begins with assessing the emotional readiness of the seller and obtaining a valuation of the business. The acquisition process involves due diligence and navigating the emotional challenges sellers may face during the transition. Key Points from the Episode: Reasons for acquiring existing law firms Steps for making law firms attractive for acquisition Sales process for law firms Post-sale transition period for sellers Benefits for buyers in acquiring existing law firms Growth through acquisition strategy for larger law firms Criteria for potential acquisitions Shift in mindset for small law firm owners Importance of building assets within the firm Post-sale period and personalized roles for sellers About Victoria Collier: Victoria Collier is a multifaceted legal and business professional who transitioned seamlessly from her Air Force paralegal role to founding her own law firm. With her unique background, she specialized in Elder Law Estate Planning, distinguishing herself as a pioneer in educating elder law attorneys nationwide about Veterans Benefits for Seniors. Her expertise extended beyond legal practice to business coaching, where she co-owned a successful company, guiding other attorneys in growing their practices Under her leadership for 18 years, her law firm consistently generated impressive revenues, reaching $1-1.5 million annually over five consecutive years. In 2020, she made the strategic move to sell her firm. Beyond law, Victoria's entrepreneurial spirit has led her to co-own another high-performing business focused on assisting Veterans. She also runs a consulting firm and has previously ventured into insurance, publishing, and real estate. Victoria Collier's career reflects a blend of legal acumen, business savvy, and a dedicated commitment to supporting veterans and the elderly. About Quid Pro Quo: Quid pro quo, a Latin term meaning "something for something," refers to a mutual exchange where one thing is given or done in return for another. In legal and business contexts, it often implies an exchange of goods, services, or favors, where each party expects to give and receive something of value. This concept is crucial in contract law, where agreements are based on the understanding that each party will fulfill their part of the deal. However, quid pro quo can also have negative connotations, especially when the exchange is unethical or illegal. For instance, in the workplace, it might refer to situations where job benefits (like promotions or raises) are contingent upon employees providing personal favors, which can lead to accusations of harassment or corruption. Quid pro quo can describe negotiations where support or concessions are exchanged for specific actions or policies in political and diplomatic arenas. It's a fundamental principle in international relations, where countries often engage in reciprocal dealings to advance their interests. Tweetable Moments: 05:29 - "What buyers want to buy is predictability. So, whatever systems you can have to make sure that there's predictability in income, that would be number one." 07:59 - "The due diligence process can be the hardest emotional part through the entire journey. It can be stressful, and that's why having an advisor to go through that can be helpful." 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 Quid Pro Quo website at https://quidproquolaw.com/ Check out Quid Pro Quo on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/victoria-collier-coaching/ Check out Quid Pro Quo on Instagram at https://instagram.com/victorywalkcoaching?igshid=YmMyMTA2M2Y= Check out Quid Pro Quo on Facebook at ht

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Principal, Business Intermediary & Broker of The Magnolia Firm, Christine McDanell. Christine McDanell is not just an expert in her field; she's a guiding light for those navigating the often turbulent waters of M&A. As the principal and founder of The Magnolia Firm, she brings a unique perspective, one that's been honed by years of hands-on experience and a deep understanding of market trends. One of the critical insights Christine shared was her take on the current market trends within the tech industry. The landscape constantly evolves, and staying abreast of these changes is crucial for anyone looking to maximize their business's value. Christine's expertise allows her to forecast these trends and advise her clients accordingly, ensuring they're always a step ahead. Financing plays a pivotal role in the M&A process, and Christine shed light on the various lending options available to businesses. She emphasized the importance of understanding these options to secure the best possible outcome in a transaction. Moreover, Christine provided strategies for maximizing business valuation, a critical aspect for any seller aiming to get the most out of their exit. The role of a broker cannot be overstated in the world of M&A. Christine discussed how a broker can facilitate the process, acting as a mediator between buyers and sellers. She highlighted the benefits of having a broker on your side, from their ability to negotiate better terms to their expertise in closing deals efficiently. Christine also mentioned her upcoming book, "Get Acquired," which is an essential read for anyone considering selling their business. The book aims to provide practical guidance, demystifying the process and offering actionable steps to prepare for a successful sale. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Christine McDanell , M&A consultant and founder of The Magnolia Firm Expertise in mergers and acquisitions, particularly in the tech industry Insights into current market trends and lending options Strategies for maximizing business valuation Role of a broker in the M&A process Tips for sellers and buyers in navigating the transaction Mention of upcoming book "Get Acquired" for practical guidance on selling a business About Christine McDanell: Christine McDanell is the enterprising Founder & Principal Business Intermediary of The Magnolia Firm, a brokerage specializing in M&A for digital businesses. With a knack for orchestrating seamless exits, her firm ensures entrepreneurs don't compromise their values while achieving their desired outcomes. TMF boasts a 100% success rate in exits, often securing deals at or above the asking price. Christine's entrepreneurial journey is marked by her success in founding, growing, acquiring, and selling over 20 businesses across diverse sectors like cleaning, wellness, beauty, technology, exotic cars, and real estate. This vast experience led her to discover a formula for perfect business sales, which she now imparts to others. Her career highlights include creating 200+ jobs since 2003, and a memorable breakfast with Richard Branson in 2017, recognizing her contributions to the Virgin Unite Foundation. She's earned accolades such as the SBA Business Person of the Year (2009) and a spot in Entrepreneur Magazine's 100 Most Brilliant Companies for Cleanology (2010). Away from work, Christine enjoys live music festivals, spontaneous global travels, attending Burning Man, and captaining boats in San Diego Bay. About The Magnolia Firm: The Magnolia Firm (TMF) stands out in the M&A brokerage landscape, focusing on transactions for small and medium-sized digital businesses (SMBs). What sets TMF apart is their commitment to exceeding expectations in both experience and results. They aim for a win-win scenario, ensuring that all parties in a transaction are more than satisfied. TMF's unique edge lies in its team composition. Unlike typical brokers, TMF's intermediaries are seasoned entrepreneurs. This entrepreneurial background is crucial. It means they have firsthand experience in owning and running businesses, giving them an unparalleled understanding of their clients' perspectives and needs. This experience allows them to deeply empathize with business owners, aligning closely with their interests and expectations. By leveraging their personal business experiences, TMF intermediaries can navigate the complexities of digital SMB transactions more effectively, ensuring a more tailored and satisfying experience for all involved. This approach has helped TMF carve out a distinct niche in the competitive world of M&A brokerage. 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 Magnolia Firm website at https://www.vanderbloemen.com/ Check out The Magnolia Firm on L

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Vanderbloemen Search Group, William Vanderbloemen. William's journey is a testament to the power of diverse experiences. His transition from being a pastor to working for a Fortune 200 company equipped him with a unique perspective that ultimately led to the creation of his search firm. Vanderbloemen Search Group is a beacon for churches, nonprofits, schools, and values-based businesses in their quest to find exceptional talent. William's firm is built on the premise that the best candidates reveal themselves within the first five minutes of an interaction, a principle guiding his approach to identifying standout individuals. William shed light on the 12 data-driven habits that are the cornerstone of his book. These habits are not just theoretical concepts; they are actionable practices backed by data and proven to elevate individuals above the rest. These habits' simplicity yet the profound impact can transform how leaders operate, and businesses succeed. William underscored the significance of responding quickly in today's fast-paced world. He shared compelling examples and statistics illustrating how a prompt and intentional reply can forge stronger relationships and set you apart in a saturated market. While simple to adopt, this habit can be a game-changer for anyone looking to make a mark. William generously invited leaders and professionals to take advantage of the over 4000 free resources on the Vanderbloemen website. These resources are designed to assist with team building, leadership development, and the nuances of running a values-based business. For those in leadership roles seeking the best team talent, William's invitation is a call to action to elevate their hiring process. Key Points from the Episode: William Vanderbloemen's career and establishment of Vanderbloemen Search Group Inspiration behind the book "Be the Unicorn: 12 Data-Driven Habits that Separate the Best from the Rest" Quick identification of standout individuals in initial meetings. Responsiveness as a key to relationship-building and market differentiation. Application of these habits in leadership and customer service roles. William's website provides 4000+ free resources on team and leadership development. About William Vanderbloemen: William Vanderbloemen is a notable figure in executive search and team consulting. He founded Vanderbloemen Search Group 15 years ago, a firm specializing in identifying top talent for various teams, managing succession plans, and offering consultation on team-related matters. This year marks a significant milestone for the firm, completing their 3,000th executive search. Before establishing his company, Vanderbloemen gained valuable insights into executive search methodologies under the guidance of a mentor with over 25 years of experience in high-level executive search. This mentorship exposed him to the best corporate practices and strategies, particularly those utilized by the globally recognized firm Russell Reynolds. Additionally, Vanderbloemen has a background in religious leadership. He previously served as a Senior Pastor at one of the largest Presbyterian Churches in the USA, adding a unique dimension to his professional profile. This combination of religious leadership and expertise in executive search and team management makes William Vanderbloemen a distinguished professional. About Vanderbloemen Search Group: Vanderbloemen Search Group is a distinctive organization serving various values-based entities, including Churches, Schools, Nonprofits, Family Offices, and Businesses aligned with specific values. They specialize in various services such as hiring, compensation analysis, succession planning, and enhancing organisational diversity. Founded on the principle that their mission is driven by the missions of the organizations they serve, Vanderbloemen began as a concept at the founder's dining room table. It has since evolved into a robust company with a team of 40 people. This growth reflects their commitment to providing tailored people solutions to teams with a greater purpose. Operating on a global scale, Vanderbloemen Search Group prides itself on aligning its services with the specific needs of its clients. This approach ensures that the solutions they offer are effective and resonate deeply with the core values and objectives of the organizations they assist. Their focus on mission-driven solutions has established Vanderbloemen as a key player in supporting organizations with a higher purpose. Tweetable Moments: 02:56 - "Churches move so slowly, and I thought, well, this is kind of silly. I wonder if we could build something like what the business world has for churches to find their pastor." 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 Vanderbloemen Search

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Nacre Consulting, Jason Pearl. The name "Nacre Consulting" is derived from the organic compound that forms a pearl, a fitting metaphor for the transformative work Jason and his team do with businesses. Nacre Consulting is dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses scale faster through comprehensive sales, marketing, and leadership programs. Jason's journey in business and leadership is inspiring. Having been a sales leader for most of his life, he understands the importance of aligning one's leadership style with the desired results. He advocates for a leadership approach that fosters respect, supports team success, and takes decisive action to achieve results. When it comes to leadership trends, Jason identifies the avoidance of healthy conflict as a significant issue. He encourages leaders to address issues early on to prevent them from escalating. In an era dominated by social media, Jason advises leaders to drown out the noise and focus on what they can control. Jason emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and being a leader's best version of oneself. His faith and values inform his approach to business and leadership. He firmly believes that success is a personal choice that individuals make every day, and that everyone has the potential to win. Nacre Consulting started as a solopreneur venture but has since grown into a small team of highly educated consultants with experience in the private sector. They aim to provide accessible options for businesses to work with them, starting with smaller projects and gradually expanding the partnership. Their goal is to change the business landscape for growth and offer services such as growth assessments, business model consulting, and holistic evaluations of sales, marketing, and production teams. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jason Pearl, founder and CEO of Nacre Consulting Origin of the name "Nacre Consulting" and its focus on helping small and medium-sized businesses scale faster Jason's background in business and leadership, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself as a leader Trends in leadership, including the avoidance of healthy conflict and the negative influence of social media Jason's expertise in leadership development and effective sales, marketing, and leadership strategies Importance of personal accountability and being the best version of oneself as a leader Ideal clients for Nacre Consulting: startups looking to scale, companies experiencing flat or declining revenue, fast-scaling companies lacking talent, strategy, and structure Services offered by Nacre Consulting: growth assessments, business model consulting, holistic evaluations of sales, marketing, and production teams Nacre Consulting's growth from a solopreneur venture to a small team of consultants About Jason Pearl: Jason Pearl is a seasoned business strategist known for his transformative impact on companies' revenue and growth. Over his career, he has played a pivotal role in generating over $500 million in revenue for numerous businesses. As the founder of a growth consulting agency, Jason shifted his focus from individual companies to empowering a broader spectrum of businesses. His mission extends beyond conventional success, emphasizing the importance of uncovering greatness, fostering strong leadership, and building enduring success. Throughout his journey, Jason discovered a profound strength in driving business revenue and understanding, motivating, and leading the people integral to these successful ventures. Rejecting conventional norms in business and life, he is determined to revolutionize approaches to success. With decades of experience, Jason is dedicated to sharing insights on achieving success in business and life, challenging the traditional paradigms and demonstrating that everyone can achieve victory with the right mindset and strategies. About Nacre Consulting: Nacre Consulting is a catalyst for accelerated growth, empowering small to medium-sized businesses with customized sales, marketing, and leadership programs. With a mission to propel businesses forward, Nacre focuses on optimizing the potential within the teams that drive each brand. By tailoring strategies to individual business needs, Nacre aims to facilitate faster and smarter scaling, offering a dynamic approach to navigate the complexities of growth. The consultancy strongly emphasizes unlocking untapped potential within teams, recognizing that the key to endless growth opportunities lies in the collective strength of the people behind the brand. With a commitment to personalized solutions, Nacre Consulting is a strategic partner dedicated to propelling businesses to new heights through effective team engagement and targeted growth initiatives. Tweetable Moments: 6:05 - "I want to be a leader that takes action and gets things done right, gets results rig

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Managing Director & Founder of Five in a Boat Limited, Jules Herd. Jules explained how the role of communication agencies like Five in a Boat has shifted from traditional communications to more of a business consultancy. They help scale-up companies secure funding by advising them on investment and ensuring they have a presence in important publications and platforms like Forbes and TechCrunch. In addition to this, they also assist with reputation management, crisis communication, and product launches. Jules emphasized the importance of being proactive in managing reputation and shared an example of how they helped a client in the gaming industry navigate challenging times. One of the key topics she discussed was the relevance of communication strategy for early-stage businesses. Jules explained that early-stage companies can become thought leaders in their industries by effectively communicating their unique offerings. She suggested that companies should hire an agency like Five in a Boat from the start, but only if their product is ready and they are in the right headspace to utilize communication professionals effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jules Herd, Managing Director of Five in a Boat Overview of Five in a Boat's services as a strategic communications agency Shift from traditional communications to business consultancy Assistance with securing funding, reputation management, crisis communication, and product launches Importance of proactive reputation management and a case study in the gaming industry Relevance of communication strategy for early-stage businesses Recommendation to hire an agency like Five in a Boat from the start Meaning behind the name "Five in a Boat" representing teamwork and collaboration About Jules Herd: Jules Herd, a BA Hons in Public Relations graduate, boasts a 23-year career in communications, notably as the former Global VP of Communications for HTC and Deezer. In 2018, she founded her consultancy, Five in a Boat, after diverse experiences with brands like Microsoft, AMD, Disney, Virgin, Codemasters, and KLM. Passionate about Diversity and Inclusion, Jules advocates for industry equality and addresses fertility issues based on personal experience. A Samaritans contributor, she actively supports families and champions mental health. Beyond Five in a Boat, Jules owns Blind Swan, a globally recognized contemporary gin, co-owns EV Cables, writes for Forbes, and serves as a trustee for charity One in Four. Jules, a married mother of an eight-year-old, balances her professional life with rowing, running, travel, karaoke, and newfound painting skills exhibited on Thortful's website post-lockdown. About Five in a Boat Limited: Five in a Boat is an independent London-based communications consultancy with extensive international experience, specializing in delivering impactful results for brands. Their approach prioritizes clarity in goals, meaningful audience engagement, freedom for innovation, and building effective teams. The consultancy challenges the status quo with an innovative and collaborative mindset, simplifying complexities and striving to understand clients' businesses thoroughly. Founded by a former Global Vice President of Communications for HTC and Deezer, Five in a Boat draws on 18 years of expertise in developing communication strategies for leading brands. The seasoned communications experts team aims to elevate other brands by applying their wealth of experience to push communication strategies to new heights. With a commitment to turning challenges into opportunities, Five in a Boat is dedicated to driving strong brand awareness and engagement for successful business growth. Tweetable Moments: 12:19 - "If it isn't going to deliver something that is absolutely aligned with whatever your core objectives are, it's a pointless exercise. Don't bother." 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 Five in a Boat Limited website at https://www.fiveinaboat.com/ Check out Five in a Boat Limited on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fiveinaboat/ Check out Five in a Boat Limited on Twitter at https://twitter.com/fiveinaboat Check out Five in a Boat Limited on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/fiveinaboat/ Check out Jules Herd on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaherd/ Check out Jules Herd on Twitter at https://twitter.com/julesyherd Check out Jules Herd on Instagram at https://instagram.com/julespinacolada?igshid=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== 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 podcast

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO, Marcy McKenna. Marcy founded the Women Inventors Club to support ambitious women with creative ideas and guide them toward product success. Two statistics that motivated her to help inventors were the low percentage of patents filed by women and the low percentage of inventors who make money with their products. She believes many inventors get stuck in the process due to lacking marketing and product validation. Marcy emphasizes the importance of thinking about marketing from the beginning and validating ideas before investing time and resources. I couldn't agree more with her on this. Execution is key in realizing dreams, and timing and choice are equally significant. Marcy shared her five-step product validation process, which is crucial in determining if a product idea is marketable and profitable. She stressed the need to understand if customers are willing to pay for the product and if the numbers work out. This validation process is valuable in learning about the customer, the competitive landscape, and setting oneself apart in the market. Marcy advised inventors to create initial prototypes at home using readily available materials for proof of concept. She cautioned against hiring expensive prototyping companies immediately, as their results may not align with the inventor's vision. Marcy suggests playing with the prototype and fine-tuning it before considering professional prototyping. She also mentioned using photorealistic 3D renderings to showcase the product's appearance and functionality, which can be helpful in licensing discussions. Key Points from the Episode: Marcy McKenna's work as an inventor and entrepreneur The Women Inventors Club and its mission to support ambitious women with creative ideas Low percentage of patents filed by women and inventors who make money with their products Importance of marketing and product validation in the invention process Marcy's five-step product validation process Creating initial prototypes at home using readily available materials Caution against immediately hiring expensive prototyping companies Use of photorealistic 3D renderings to showcase product appearance and functionality Marcy's work with inventors and her efforts to empower them About Marcy McKenna: Marcy McKenna is a prominent figure in product innovation and entrepreneurship. Renowned as a keynote speaker, she has successfully conceptualized, developed, and launched over 40 products through various channels, including home shopping platforms like QVC and HSN, ecommerce, and major retailers nationwide. Marcy's expertise extends to product development, marketing strategy, and consumer product branding, making her a sought-after consultant in ecommerce and traditional retail. With over 12 years of experience in the Live Shopping space, she is recognized for her proficiency in social media, email marketing, and shoppable video content. Notably, Marcy excels in hosting Live Shopping events on diverse platforms such as Amazon Live, Pinterest TV, YouTube Live, and others, showcasing her versatility and impact in the evolving digital commerce landscape. As an Amazon Influencer and Live Shopping Host, she regularly engages audiences, contributing to the success of numerous brands. Tweetable Moments: 07:51 - "Finding out if your idea has a market and is salable is a critical step that many inventors skip." 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 Marcy McKenna website at https://www.marcymckenna.com/ Check out Marcy McKenna on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcymckenna/ Check out Marcy McKenna on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/marcymckenna Check out Marcy McKenna on Twitter at https://twitter.com/marcymckenna Check out Marcy McKenna on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/marcymckenna/ 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Shiageto Consulting, Faris Aranki. Faris' company, Shiageto Consulting, operates under the metaphor of a sharpening stone, working to hone other companies by enhancing their strategies and effectiveness. They have a patented methodology based on three pillars: improving IQ (Intelligence Quotient), EQ (Emotional Quotient), and FQ (Focus Quotient). Their approach involves aligning team goals, enhancing communication, and eliminating distractions. Faris delved into recognizing when a company needs sharpening and proactively addressing the issues. He says indicators of a dull IQ and EQ include a lack of clarity, limited ideas, and poor communication. He emphasized the need to eliminate distractions and focus on what truly matters. Shiageto Consulting engages with clients through interactive facilitation, challenging biases, and filling team gaps. They also train leaders in soft skills such as influence, storytelling, and relationship-building. Faris started the company four years ago after identifying a gap in strategy implementation. Despite a slow start as result of COVID-19 pandemic, they now work with big clients like Amazon and Heineken and startups. Faris shared that he has worked with big companies like Coca-Cola, Conde Nast, Amazon, and BMW. However, he clarified that they don't only work with enterprise-level companies. The common factor among these companies is his relationships with people within them. Faris believes that people like working with people they know and trust. Even if his company is small, if they have had a positive impact previously, these companies will come back to work with them. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Faris as the founder and CEO of Shiageto Consulting Explanation of the company's metaphor of sharpening stones and how they help improve strategies and effectiveness Discussion of the three pillars of their methodology: improving IQ, EQ, and FQ Importance of recognizing when a company needs sharpening and being proactive in addressing issues Engagement with clients through interactive facilitation, challenging biases, and filling in gaps within teams Training leaders in soft skills such as influence, storytelling, and relationship-building Examples of clients they have worked with, including big companies like Amazon and startups Emphasis on the importance of trust in working with clients Working with a variety of smaller companies in different industries About Faris Aranki: With over two decades of experience catalyzing strategic change in diverse corporate and non-corporate settings, Faris Aranki is a seasoned professional adept at navigating the nuances of strategic success. His extensive career has touched various companies, ranging from global giants to fledgling startups, and spanned multiple countries and industries. Recognizing that achieving organizational goals extends beyond the quality of strategy alone, Faris founded Shiageto Consulting to enhance strategic effectiveness. He emphasizes the critical role of effective engagement and barrier removal in accomplishing objectives. Faris has distilled his expertise in solving complex problems into Shiageto's workshops, courses, and methodologies, offering businesses and individuals a structured approach to overcoming obstacles. With the belief that any team can benefit from these enhancements with the proper support, Faris Aranki and Shiageto Consulting stand as catalysts for transformative change. About Shiageto Consulting: Shiageto Consulting pioneers innovative approaches to enhance business effectiveness and bolster success in a demanding contemporary business landscape. Faced with the daunting pressures of achieving success, businesses often resort to untested strategies, introducing various risks such as delivering the wrong outcomes, encountering delays, or overspending. Shiageto Consulting mitigates these risks by focusing on sharpening Intelligence Quotient (IQ), Emotional Quotient (EQ), and Focus Quotient (FQ). IQ involves refining strategies for clarity, measurability, and resilience through fact-based stress testing. These nuanced improvements serve as hidden levers, significantly enhancing the likelihood of success at a fraction of the cost. Shiageto Consulting's methodology vividly illustrates this concept by likening a team's vision to scaling a mountain, emphasizing the precision required to achieve strategic objectives. Tweetable Moments: 04:03 - "Why wait till the end and have to fix all the problems then? Foresee them and nip them in the bud early." 03:30 - "Complacency can be a major problem." 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 Shiageto Consulting website at https://www.shiageto.com/ Check out Shiageto Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Coach, Author & Inspirational Speaker of Campbell Company, Josefine Campbell. Josefine has worked with renowned organizations such as Maersk, Novo Nordisk, Deloitte, McDonald's, and KPMG. She coaches individual leaders and groups within these organizations, focusing on challenges, personal growth, and career development. Interestingly, she mentioned that most clients come through recommendations and engage her as an external coach. This is a testament to her expertise and her value to these organizations. Josefine also discussed the challenges and fears that executives and entrepreneurs face. She likened the feeling of being in a high-pressure work environment to walking through a dark forest as a teenager. She shared a personal story of her experience in a martial arts competition, where she doubted her abilities compared to others who had been practicing for much longer. However, she learned that bravery and risk-taking are essential in both entrepreneurship and martial arts. Josefine's new book, "Power Barometer," offers practical strategies for managing personal energy for business success. She emphasizes the need to listen to one's body and control breathing to calm the mind and signal the brain that there is no danger. She also highlights the significance of controlling one's attention and not letting external factors dictate its place. For those interested in learning more, Josefine encourages visiting her website, josephinecampbell.com, where they can find free tools and resources from the book. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Josefine Campbell, executive coach and author Importance of authenticity in leadership and its impact on energy levels Trying new things and changing behavior can initially require more energy Alignment with one's personality is crucial in implementing new approaches Importance of respecting boundaries and its impact on energy levels Josephine's work with organizations and coaching individual leaders and groups Challenges and fears faced by executives and entrepreneurs Importance of being brave and taking risks in entrepreneurship Being aware of surroundings and controlling breathing to calm the mind About Josefine Campbell: Josefine Campbell, a renowned executive coach and the founder of Campbell Co, leads a premier leadership consulting firm catering to multinational corporations. Specializing in inspiring and coaching leaders, teams, and talents, Josefine's clientele includes major entities like McDonald’s, Deloitte, Maersk, Novo Nordisk, and the Carlsberg Group. Drawing from her extensive experience, she employs a practical and pragmatic approach to leadership development. Josefine is a four-time jiu-jitsu champion, reflecting her keen interest in fostering personal leadership in challenging situations commonly encountered in modern work environments. Before venturing into executive coaching, she served as a serial entrepreneur and held a role as an external lecturer at Copenhagen Business School, further enriching her background in leadership and business. About Campbell Company: Focused on addressing clients' specific challenges, the company uniquely emphasizes enhancing personal energy for heightened performance and resilience in demanding scenarios marked by uncertainty, conflicts, or changes. Drawing inspiration from Japanese martial arts, founder Josefine Campbell's early experiences in Jiu-jitsu championships shaped the company's philosophy. Her success in mastering reaction-based disciplines underscores the importance of maintaining composure, quick reflexes, empathy, and rational thinking in high-pressure situations. Tailoring programs to individual companies, Campbell Co ensures customized solutions for diverse professional challenges. By offering new insights and tools, the company empowers leaders, team members, and individuals to thrive in adversity, fostering a holistic personal and professional development approach. Tweetable Moments: 04:37 - "Being in integrity with who I am made a huge difference energy wise." 11:34 - "Entrepreneurs are brave people and that's why we will react sometimes the same way when we are at work as if we were walking through a dark forest." 15:28 - "Rather than letting other signals things happening outside me dictate where I put my attention, I would control my attention myself." 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 Campbell Company website at https://josefinecampbell.com/ Check out Campbell Company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/campbellcoaching/ Check out Josefine Campbell on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/josefinecampbell/ Check out Josefine Campbell on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/josefine.campbell Check out Josefine Campbell on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jos

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & Lead Consultant of BestFirstNow, Kolby Goodman. Kolby Goodman works with business owners and leaders grappling with building a great team. Kolby steps in to help when they're inundated with too many candidates or need help attracting enough. He assists these leaders in understanding not just the qualifications they need in a candidate but also how the right hire can help solve their most pressing problems. Kolby's approach to helping businesses find the right candidates is comprehensive. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the skills and expertise needed for the role and how they will be applied to solve the company's problems. Colby assists businesses in creating job descriptions and marketing materials that set them apart from other companies in the industry. His process also involves developing a candidate flow that brings in the right number of qualified candidates. Colby advises businesses to contact him if they are experiencing frequent turnover in their team or if their job postings are not attracting the right candidates. He believes settling for the wrong hire can lead to future headaches and heartaches, so he encourages businesses to be strategic in their hiring process. Key Points from the Episode: Building and keeping a great team Kolby Goodman's work as a candidate experience and hiring consultant Struggles faced by business owners and leaders in creating a great team The current hiring environment and predictions for the future Factors employees look for aside from salary Kolby's process for helping businesses find the right candidates Importance of understanding skills and expertise needed for the role Creating job descriptions and marketing materials that set the company apart Screening process and evaluating candidates About Kolby Goodman: Kolby Goodman, the founder of BestFirstNow, a hiring consulting firm, specializes in assisting highly educated owner-operators, such as doctors, dentists, veterinarians, attorneys, CPAs, and architects, in recruiting impactful problem solvers instead of settling for average candidates. With over a decade of experience and having successfully placed over 5,000 high-achieving professionals, Kolby draws from firsthand knowledge to address common interview pitfalls and guide leaders in attracting and retaining top talent. Renowned for his expertise, Kolby has been featured on CBS News, LinkedIn, The Huffington Post, and LA Weekly. He has collaborated with industry giants like Panasonic, Marriott Hotels, Thermo Fisher Scientific, and associations such as the American Diabetes Association and SHRM. Through tailored workshops, Kolby shares insights on optimizing the hiring process, effective leadership, and enhancing employee engagement for various organizations, universities, and schools nationwide. About BestFirstNow: BestFirstNow, led by Kolby Goodman, specializes in alleviating common hiring challenges to ensure a favorable first impression, a seamless candidate experience, and the timely acquisition of top-tier talent. Organizations facing issues like inconsistent candidate experiences or settling for suboptimal professionals can benefit from a comprehensive overhaul. Outdated hiring strategies, exemplified by stagnant job ads and generic interview questions, can be revitalized to foster more meaningful interactions. Lengthy hiring cycles, adversely impacting costs and operational efficiency, can be streamlined for a quicker time-to-hire. Challenges such as low offer acceptance rates and high employee turnover are addressed by ensuring candidates align genuinely with organizational culture and values. The firm's approach fosters brand champions, even among non-selected candidates, who share positive experiences and express immediate interest in future opportunities. The overarching goal is to boost retention by establishing early alignment between candidates, organizational culture, and career progression. Tweetable Moments: 00:06:19 - "They're looking for an interesting challenge. What keeps somebody there is the continual opportunity and drive to solve interesting problems." 12:46 - "If you settle for something, you're ultimately going to have a massive headache and heartache in the future." 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 BestFirstNow website at https://www.kolbygoodman.com/consulting Check out Kolby Goodman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kolbygoodman/ Check out Kolby Goodman on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/wix Check out Kolby Goodman on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TheJobHuntr 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 BLOC

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Principal of Portal CFO, Manny Skevofilax. When asked about the services Manny renders as a fractional CFO, in response, he elucidated that numerous business proprietors initially seek assistance from accountants but often grapple with comprehending profitability and executing data-driven decisions. Manny underscored the significance of grasping fundamental metrics, such as identifying the most lucrative products or services, to advance towards business objectives. Manny's professional scope extends across diverse sectors, encompassing service companies, manufacturers, and contractors. He conveyed that a pivotal aspect of his responsibilities involves scrutinizing financial statements. Each business's financial statement narrates a distinct tale, and the ability to pinpoint areas for enhancement and make informed decisions grounded in financial data is deemed indispensable. When questioned about his interactions with clients and the concept of engaging a fractional CFO, Manny expounded that he initiates by evaluating the client's existing financial information and their capacity to make informed decisions based on said information. He stressed the urgency of timely and accurate financial statements, highlighting the significance of promptly addressing adverse trends. Key Points from the Episode: Manny Skevofilax's work as a fractional CFO Importance of analyzing financial statements and making data-driven decisions Identifying profitable segments in business Making tough decisions about clients Overcoming stagnation in business Manny's experience working with various types of businesses Importance of basic metrics in understanding profitability Manny's blog and valuable content on LinkedIn Manny's approach to providing practical lessons based on his experiences and mentors About Manny Skevofilax: Manny Skevofilax, a dynamic consultant and compelling speaker, breathes vitality into businesses, ensuring holistic success through his venture, Portal CFO. Initially rooted in the restaurant industry, Manny holds a Bachelor of Science in Business and a Master of Science in Finance, leveraging this dual expertise for a seamless transition into the corporate banking realm. His journey crystallized in consultancy, where his wealth of experience became instrumental. Renowned for translating intricate concepts into actionable strategies, Manny stands as the go-to figure for businesses navigating the ever-evolving commercial landscape. With a proven track record, he empowers enterprises to survive and thrive, offering indispensable insights for flourishing in today's dynamic business environment. About Portal CFO: Portal CFO is a guiding beacon for business owners, dedicated to enhancing financial prosperity. Positioned as a trusted navigator, the mission is clear: facilitate a seamless journey from the current state (Point A) to the business's envisioned future (Point B). As a financial compass, Portal CFO empowers entrepreneurs to comprehend and bolster their business's economic well-being. The focus is on fostering a more profound understanding, enabling informed decision-making throughout the transformative voyage. By providing insights into the intricacies of financial health, Portal CFO ensures that business owners not only navigate but thrive, ultimately translating into the ability to make judicious and profitable decisions for sustained success. Tweetable Moments: 14:32 - "I do everything very, very simple so that the owner can understand, teach it to his or her team, and make it actionable." 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 Portal CFO website at https://portalcfo.com/ Check out Portal CFO on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/portal-cfo-consulting/ Check out Portal CFO on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/granddynamics/ Check out Manny Skevofilax on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/timwalther/ 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Grand Dynamics International, Tim Walther. Tim Walther's company is not your typical team-building organization. They specialize in creating outdoor adventure-based retreats and events beyond the usual ropes courses and trust falls. From multi-day executive retreats to keynote speakers, Grand Dynamics International is all about fostering relationships and enhancing teamwork through unique experiences. Tim emphasizes the importance of these unique experiences in forging deeper connections among team members. He believes that the familiar can only take you so far, and to truly impact a team, you must introduce novel and creative experiences that generate emotional engagement and connection. Tim's insight about team building exercises' short- and long-term impact was insightful. He compared motivation to taking a bath, stating that team building experiences must be consistent to have a lasting effect. The quality of the experience and the engagement of the participants also play a significant role in the impact of these exercises. Well-designed and unique experiences, according to Tim, have a greater impact on team dynamics and relationships. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Tim Walther, President and Founder of Grand Dynamics International Grand Dynamics specializes in team-building experiences for corporate teams Focus on creating unique and creative experiences for deeper connections among team members Short and long-term impact of team building exercises Tim's book, "All In Adventure Stories: The Bold Pursuit of Your Potential" Making adventure more accessible to everyone Recommendations for event planners and businesses Information on unique experiences for corporate events About Tim Walther: Tim Walther is a seasoned Adventurer, Trainer, Coach, Inspirational Speaker, and Author with over 25 years of experience integrating adventure psychology into business. Featured in prominent outlets such as The New York Times, Delta Sky Magazine, and Fox Sports News, Tim's training programs have reached 156 countries via The Voice of America. As the founder of Grand Dynamics International, he employs experiential learning and adventure to enhance leadership and team dynamics. Tim has authored multiple leadership development and adventure books, contributing articles to various publications. Renowned for his masterful facilitation, he has conducted leadership programs globally for major companies like Google, Bain Capital, and the Cleveland Clinic. Based in Jackson Hole, Wyoming, Tim is a dedicated adventure athlete, excelling in Alpine Mountaineering, Endurance Swimming, Free-Diving, and Multi-Sport Adventures. About Grand Dynamics International: Grand Dynamics International (GDI) is a pioneering force in experiential training and development, boasting over 21 years of expertise in crafting inspirational corporate events and personalized executive retreats. GDI's Adventure Speakers illuminate meetings, while their experiential events forge indelible memories and team-building programs dismantle barriers, fostering heightened engagement. GDI excels in customer-centric, cutting-edge experiential training and is dedicated to advancing individual, team, and organizational development. Their programs, led by a network of professionals ranging from world-class mountaineers to corporate executives, promise unparalleled impact and a direct contribution to improved business outcomes. GDI's commitment extends to inspiring global action, emphasizing the transformation of potential into tangible results. Comprising a nationwide and select international network of experts, GDI delivers Team Building Adventures, Leadership Training, Customized Corporate Retreats, action seminars, and Conference Breakout Sessions. Renowned for dynamic and tailored programs, GDI consistently exceeds client expectations, offering the most impactful team-building events and customised action-oriented seminars to meet specific group needs and business objectives. 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 Grand Dynamics International website at https://granddynamics.com/ Check out Grand Dynamics International on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/grand-dynamics-international/ Check out Grand Dynamics International on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/granddynamics/ Check out Tim Walther on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/timwalther/ Check out Tim Walther on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/timwaltherallin/ Check out Tim Walther on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TimWalther 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

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Owner of 360 Sales Consulting, Benjamin Brown. Benjamin started his consulting business with a mission to teach others the language and skills of sales. He has helped build sales teams, hire salespeople, and provide coaching and training. According to Benjamin, sales is a simple concept of getting someone to move, whether it's through a billboard, website, or phone call. He emphasizes that sales is everywhere, and understanding the process can help salespeople avoid being perceived as pushy or salesy. One of Benjamin's unique approaches to working with clients involves role-playing and practicing sales skills. He firmly believes that sales is a skill that can only be learned through practice and experience. He also emphasizes the importance of asking questions and not making assumptions in sales conversations. By asking the right questions, salespeople can better understand their clients' needs and provide the right solutions. Benjamin stresses the importance of understanding your product and selling it effectively. He points out that potential clients constantly judge you, especially in verbal or in-person interactions. He suggests imagining a scenario where all modern technology is removed, and you must sell your product on the street. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Benjamin Brown, founder of 360 Sales Consulting Benjamin's experience in sales and his consulting business Sales is a simple concept of getting someone to move Importance of role-playing and practicing sales skills Emphasis on asking questions and not making assumptions in sales conversations Sales is a skill that can only be learned through practice and experience Understanding the core value of your product and communicating it effectively Utilizing the power of the cell phone for sales Caution against relying too heavily on others to sell for you About Benjamin Brown: Meet Benjamin Brown, a seasoned sales expert, accomplished author, and dedicated father of two. With an impressive 23-year career in sales, Benjamin has navigated diverse sectors, from stock brokerage-style cold calling to selling gym memberships and medical devices. Leveraging his extensive experience, he has crafted a comprehensive 10-step sales process designed to address the challenges faced by small businesses struggling with sales issues and low revenue. Benjamin's journey into sales coaching began during his tenure with Business Network International (BNI), where he identified a common deficiency among small businesses— the absence of a structured sales process. Recognizing the pivotal role sales training plays in business success, he embarked on a mission to share his wealth of knowledge with business owners. This initiative led to the creation of the Rapid Success Sales Process, a proven and tested methodology that empowers individuals and business owners to enhance their revenue and overall success. Benjamin Brown's dedication to refining the sales experience highlights the transformative impact of a well-executed sales strategy. About 360 Sales Consulting: 360 Sales Consulting offers a transformative solution to elevate your sales performance and propel you to new heights. This specialized service is designed to unlock your sales potential, providing essential skills training for business owners and sales representatives. By leveraging 360 Sales Consulting, you can significantly enhance your closing rate, resulting in increased revenue and financial success. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or a sales professional, this consulting service focuses on honing the crucial skills needed to thrive in the competitive sales landscape. Elevate your sales game, boost your earning potential, and take your business to the next level with the comprehensive guidance and expertise offered by 360 Sales Consulting. Tweetable Moments: 04:46, "For a salesperson, you have to understand that the things that I teach is never about you." 05:48 - "Sales is everywhere if you're married like I was and you stop selling you get divorced. 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 360 Sales Consulting website at https://www.360salesconsulting.com/ Check out 360 Sales Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindspansystems/ Check out Benjamin Brown on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/360sales/ Check out Benjamin Brown new book: “7 Steps to Close Sales Deals” at https://www.360salesconsulting.com/freeguide/ Check out Benjamin Brown on Facebook at https://facebook.com/ben.brown.102361 Check out Benjamin Brown on Instagram at https://instagram.com/benbrowntre 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

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Digital Clarity Company, Reggie James. Digital Clarity, under Reggie's leadership, has been instrumental in helping companies define their value proposition, target the right customers, and create a focused marketing strategy. Reggie introduced us to the 95/5 rule, which states that 95% of people engaging with a company are not ready to buy and are in the discovery phase. This rule emphasizes the importance of nurturing potential customers and providing them with the information they need to decide. It's not just about selling but building relationships and trust with your audience. Reggie also shed light on omnichannel marketing, where companies provide multiple touchpoints for customers to engage with their brand. This approach has become increasingly important in today's digital age, where customers expect seamless experiences across all platforms. He also highlighted the rise of online communities and buyer committees, where people discuss products and services. These platforms have significantly influenced today's market, shaping consumer decisions and perceptions about brands. Reggie reflected on his entrepreneurial journey and how it continues to evolve. He mentioned the emergence of new concepts like web3 and NFTs, bringing a new dimension to the business landscape. Reminiscing about the early days of the dot-com boom and his work at Ziff Davis, a pioneering technology publisher, Reggie emphasized the importance of narrative and depth in marketing. His experience in the print and advertising industry has shaped his approach to digital marketing, focusing on storytelling and creating meaningful connections with the audience. Key Points from the Episode: Digital Clarity's expertise in digital marketing for B2B tech companies Importance of defining value proposition, targeting the right customers, and creating a focused marketing strategy The 95/5 rule: 95% of people engaging with a company are not ready to buy Nurturing potential customers and providing them with information Omnichannel marketing and multiple touchpoints for customer engagement Rise of online communities and buyer committees The value of influence in today's market Importance of established leaders and track record in the buying decision process Reggie's commitment to being of service to potential clients Reflection on the entrepreneurial journey and the evolving business landscape Mention of web3 and NFTs as new concepts Importance of narrative and depth in marketing Digital Clarity's target audience: B2B companies, founders, and CEOs in the tech space About Reggie James: Reggie James is a seasoned marketing and digital strategy expert, boasting over three decades of experience in the field. Recognized for his transformative impact on organizations, Reggie has been a critical player in the evolution of digital marketing, actively shaping contemporary business models. As the founder of Digital Clarity, a leading consultancy, Reggie spearheads innovative approaches incorporating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, analytics, and brand elevation. Reggie's company is renowned for strategic insights, driving marketing change, and delivering lasting value for clients. Reggie's unparalleled experience and inventive methods have left an indelible mark on various organizations, leveraging strategic marketing, advertising, and digital solutions. In an environment where B2B tech companies grapple with delivering results amidst resource constraints, Reggie stands out for providing CEOs and CMOs with invaluable guidance. His distinctive ability to challenge conventional thinking and deeply understand buyer journeys across diverse industries positions him as a transformative force in marketing and digital strategy. About Digital Clarity Company: Digital Clarity is a seasoned player in the dynamic digital marketing landscape, with roots tracing back to the era of iconic devices like the Sony Walkman, PS One consoles, and the Nokia 3310. With a wealth of experience from collaborations with creative minds in media agencies and digital pioneers, Digital Clarity has continuously evolved its journey. Today, the company is a valuable guide for businesses of all sizes, navigating the intricacies of the digital economy through well-crafted marketing strategies. Despite the changing tides of businesses, people, and technologies, Digital Clarity has honed a unique formula for success that has been refined over the years for its diverse range of clients. With a rich history and a commitment to staying at the forefront of digital marketing, Digital Clarity remains a trusted partner for companies seeking to thrive in the 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 Digital Clarity website at https://www.digital-clarity.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with CEO of Mindspan Systems Inc., Rich Edwards. Rich Edwards, as the CEO of Mind Span Systems, leads a team that specializes in helping community financial institutions with marketing automation, communication, and personalization using data. They focus on smaller institutions with assets below 10 billion, which may not be technologically advanced but are looking to leverage tools like machine learning and AI to improve their services. Rich highlighted a phenomenon he called the 'barbell effect' in the banking industry. This effect is characterized by the dominance of large and smaller local banks in the market activity, leaving a gap in the middle. He also discussed the attitudes and trends of banking consumers, emphasizing the fear of another financial collapse and the concentration of activity at both ends of the banking spectrum. Rich explained that while AI is a powerful productivity tool, it won't immediately replace jobs but rather enhance the capabilities of professionals. He emphasized leveraging AI to focus on tasks that add value and differentiate a business. Under Rich's leadership, Mind Span Systems helps clients with specific pain points, such as cost savings and support use cases. However, the real value of AI, according to Rich, lies in uncovering new opportunities and tasks that were previously impossible. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Rich Edwards as CEO of Mind Span Systems MindSpan's work with community financial institutions Attitudes and trends of banking consumers Potential of AI in the banking industry Barbell effect in the banking industry AI as a productivity tool that enhances capabilities Specific pain points and value of AI in uncovering new opportunities Potential of using interns or assistants to enhance business operations MindSpan's resources on personalization in the banking industry About Rich Edwards: Rich Edwards serves as the CEO of Mindspan Systems, specializing in empowering community financial institutions through data-driven strategies and technologies. With a profound background in analytics, marketing, artificial intelligence, and machine learning, he guides organizations toward transformative growth. Throughout his career, Rich has collaborated with global clients in banking, insurance, and financial services, demonstrating his expertise in product strategy related to data center automation and artificial intelligence. Notably, he played a pivotal role in the launch of IBM Watson Developer Cloud. Rich holds a Bachelor of Science in Engineering from Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute and a Master of Business Administration from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Additionally, he served as an engineering officer in the US Army. Currently residing in Raleigh, NC, Rich Edwards and his family contribute to the local community. About Mindspan Systems Inc.: Mindspan Systems assists mid-market insurance, banking, and financial institutions with data-related challenges. Recognizing the frustration stemming from limited insights, the company facilitates the execution of data-driven strategies, fostering transformative changes and securing a sustainable competitive advantage. Mindspan Systems offers various services, including data science and data-driven technology solutions. These empower organizations to construct personalized experiences tailored for each customer, utilizing laser-focused, trackable, and testable messaging to optimize marketing budgets for customer acquisition and increased wallet share. The company prides itself on providing expertise and flexible, scalable solutions to meet specific requirements. Mindspan Systems stands ready to contribute its technical prowess and ensure the success of your organizational strategy. 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 Mindspan Systems Inc. website at https://mindspaninc.com/ Check out Mindspan Systems Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mindspansystems/ Check out Mindspan Systems Inc. on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mindspansystems Check out Rich Edwards on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richedwards/ Check out Rich Edwards on Twitter at https://twitter.com/richedwards Check out Rich Edwards on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mindspan_systems 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Performance Coach, Whitney Alexandra. Whitney's clientele consists of successful women who have already achieved a multi-six figure level in their businesses. However, they often find themselves at a plateau, whether a sales or revenue plateau or a passion plateau, where they feel disconnected from their business. This is where Whitney steps in, helping them get clear on their next success level and find the easiest path to achieve it. Whitney suggests an exercise to help listeners get started on the path to clarity. She advises thinking about their considerable revenue or business goal and multiplying it by ten. This brainstorming activity opens up creative options and can be a game-changer. Whitney emphasizes that her approach is not about working harder but about doing less more smartly. She helps her clients delegate and streamline their operations for maximum efficiency. Whitney Alexandra is no stranger to recognition. She has received accolades from a consulting firm for her exceptional sales performance. However, she acknowledges that, like everyone else, she is not immune to making mistakes and getting in her own way. In the age of social media, she discusses the concept of authenticity and how she is working on creating more candid content to share important stories and insights. Whitney emphasizes the need to take action quickly and not wait for the perfect moment or appearance. She encourages her clients to remove the pressure of perfection and focus on what is fast and easy. She shares a success story of a client who had been delaying sending an email to their list but ended up making $100,000 in sales that week after embracing the idea of speed and imperfection. Key Points from the Episode: Whitney Alexandra's work as a performance coach for women leaders and entrepreneurs Helping clients scale their businesses in alignment with their desires and fulfillment Assisting clients in overcoming plateaus in their business and finding clarity in their goals Encouraging clients to think bigger and ask new questions to break out of their comfort zones Suggesting an exercise of multiplying big revenue or business goals by ten for creative options Emphasizing the importance of working smarter, not harder, and delegating tasks Reflecting on personal experiences and mistakes and the concept of authenticity in social media Encouraging taking quick action and embracing imperfection for faster results Discussing the humanizing aspect of vulnerability and connecting with others facing similar challenges About Whitney Alexandra: Whitney Alexandra is a renowned Performance Coach who empowers top women entrepreneurs to achieve unprecedented success and lead extraordinary lives. With over two decades of experience, Whitney has become a trusted guide for influential business owners seeking to unlock their full potential. Employing evidence-based performance coaching strategies, Whitney facilitates rapid and transformative shifts for her clients, often elevating every aspect of their personal and professional lives within a few short months. In recognition of her expertise, Whitney was honored as a prestigious Forbes Business Council member in 2023. She is a thought leader and contributor on this global platform, actively engaging in higher-level conversations and fostering connections for women entrepreneurs worldwide. Whitney's coaching philosophy centers around rewiring mindsets for limitless success. Her 20-year journey includes assisting some of the world's most reputable brands and leaders in their transformative endeavors. Through a unique blend of performance coaching, mindset tools, and tailored strategies, Whitney focuses on clearing subconscious, energetic, and emotional blocks to enable her clients to embrace the incredible lives they deserve. As a beacon of empowerment, she guides individuals to unleash their inner potential and emerge ready to receive the success they desire. Tweetable Moments: 11:40 - "In this world of being real on social media, there's something really nice about showing up and not having to look 100% or being in a you know going live and talking about your business or your offers." 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 Whitney Alexandra’s website at https://whitneyalexandra.co/ Check out Whitney Alexandra’s company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/whitneyinc/ Check out Whitney Alexandra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/whitneyalexandra/ Check out Whitney Alexandra on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/WhitneyInc Check out Whitney Alexandra on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/whitney.alexandra/ 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 i

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Sprig, Ryan Glasgow. Sprig is a platform that helps businesses gather user feedback through in-product surveys, session replays, and data analysis with artificial intelligence. They've worked with big names like Netflix, Dropbox, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Peloton, ensuring these companies get a representative sample of user experiences. Ryan shared that Sprig has an impressive response rate of 33% for their surveys. He compared this to platforms like Yelp, where only a small percentage of users leave reviews, but those reviews are generally accurate representations of the overall experience. Ryan emphasized the importance of understanding user experience. He cited companies that have faced backlash and struggled due to a lack of customer perception. In his view, companies that don't prioritize understanding their customers may lack empathy and risk falling behind in a competitive and challenging economic environment. One of the most exciting aspects of Sprig is its implementation of AI for data analysis. Ryan explained that they use advanced AI models to summarize and analyze large amounts of survey data. This provides meaningful insights and even suggestions for improving the product experience. The potential for conversations with AI entities that understand the data and can help make decisions based on customer feedback is groundbreaking. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Ryan Glasgow, founder and CEO of Sprig Sprig's services in gathering user feedback for companies like Netflix, Dropbox, Robinhood, Coinbase, and Peloton Comparison of Sprig's high response rate for surveys to platforms like Yelp Importance of understanding user experience and its impact on companies Implementation of AI for data analysis and providing insights and suggestions for product improvement Potential applications of Sprig for large enterprise-level companies and early-stage startups Vision for the future of Sprig and advancements in AI Importance of valuing customer feedback and increasing customer loyalty Future of delivering exceptional experiences through targeted surveys About Ryan Glasgow: Ryan Glasgow, Founder and CEO of Sprig (formerly UserLeap), is a seasoned figure in the tech industry. His brainchild, Sprig, is a research platform specializing in advanced usability testing and in-product survey capabilities, catering to renowned companies like Dropbox, Loom, and Shift. An accomplished author, Glasgow penned "The Customer-Obsessed Product Manager's Playbook" and currently hosts the People Driven Products Podcast. He has a robust product management background and previously held key roles such as group product manager at Weebly, product manager at Vurb, and product designer at Extrabux. Ryan's contributions to the industry underscore his expertise in enhancing user experience and driving product innovation. Sprig: Sprig is a dynamic product insights platform that empowers teams to enhance their products through swift user insights. Its capabilities span from testing new designs and prototypes to optimizing core user flows. Trusted by prominent companies, including Dropbox, Square, Notion, and Loom, Sprig is pivotal in enabling these teams to construct superior product experiences on a large scale. Sprig contributes to the evolution of user-centric designs and refining essential user interactions by facilitating rapid and informed decision-making. Its impact is evident in the tech landscape, where it serves as a valuable resource for organizations committed to staying at the forefront of product innovation and ensuring optimal user satisfaction. 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 Sprig website at https://sprig.com/ Check out Sprig on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sprig-official Check out Sprig on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Sprig Check out Ryan Glasgow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanglasgow/ Check out Ryan Glasgow on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ryanglasgow 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Head of Product Marketing of RudderStack, Eric Dodds. RudderStack is a customer data platform designed to help businesses collect, integrate, and utilize customer data. It's a tool that breaks down data silos, providing a comprehensive view of the customer journey. This platform offers tools to analyze and utilize data effectively, such as identifying potential churn customers and prioritizing leads for the sales team. Eric highlighted the consequences of not working with data effectively. These include difficulty in making decisions and challenges in team collaboration. Understanding past performance and making informed decisions becomes a daunting task without proper data analysis. Conflicting data across different teams can also hinder collaboration and alignment. Rudder Stack aims to solve these challenges by providing a data infrastructure that enables businesses to leverage their data for growth. Eric explained that RudderStack's pricing model is based on a volume basis. Customers are charged based on the amount of data they send through the system. The simplicity of their pricing structure is a testament to their belief in keeping things simple for their customers. Eric also shared some background information about RudderStack. The core of their product is open source, providing high transparency for customers. This transparency is a key part of RudderStack's commitment to helping businesses of all sizes, from startups to enterprise-level organizations, effectively utilize their data. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Eric Dodds, Head of Product Marketing at RudderStack Discussion on RudderStack, a customer data platform Features and benefits of RudderStack Target audience of Rudder Stack (data leaders in companies of all sizes) Data privacy and security Consequences of not working with data effectively RudderStack's mission to provide a data infrastructure for growth Pricing model of Rudder Stack (volume-based) Best practices for early-stage companies using Rudder Stack About Eric Dodds: Eric Dodds, a resident of South Carolina, is a multifaceted individual with a passion for technology, mountain activities, and, notably, strong coffee. His commitment to faith and role as a loving husband are central aspects of his life. As the founder of Yield Group, a marketing technology company, Eric leads efforts to empower businesses by facilitating the collection, processing, analysis, and actionable use of essential data for growth. Eric boasts a rich professional history, having co-founded and overseen marketing at The Iron Yard, which evolved into the world's largest in-person code school. His extensive marketing experience spans agency and client roles, contributing to renowned brands such as Best Buy, Double Day, and Colonial Williamsburg. Beyond the professional realm, Eric dedicates time to family, enjoying activities like reading, mountain biking, and crafting in his workshop. About RudderStack: RudderStack is the foremost warehouse Customer Data Platform, uniquely tailored for data teams. Distinguished by its integration with existing warehouses or data lakes, RudderStack operates without storing data internally, addressing security apprehensions, cutting costs, and optimizing the potential of warehouse investments. Trusted by prominent companies such as Stripe, Crate and Barrel, Priceline, and Footlocker, RudderStack is the conduit for these enterprises to efficiently collect and transmit their invaluable data to the requisite tools and teams. With a commitment to innovation and reliability, RudderStack emerges as a pivotal solution, facilitating seamless data management and utilization for diverse 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 RudderStack website at https://www.rudderstack.com/ Check out RudderStack on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/rudderstack Check out RudderStack on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RudderStack Check out Eric Dodds on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericdodds/ Check out Eric Dodds on Instagram at https://twitter.com/ericdodds 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief of Operations & Founder of Stafi, Demetrio Rico & Raquel Gomes. Demetrio explained that Stafi's vetting and screening process is incredibly rigorous, with only 1% of applicants cutting. This ensures that only the best and most qualified individuals are hired. Stafi takes pride in training its staff in-house and providing ongoing support to ensure they add value to the law firms they are paired with. They don't just provide staff; they act as an extension of the law firms, handling onboarding, continuous education, and training for the virtual team. They even have a full-time psychologist dedicated to supporting the staff, which is a testament to their commitment to their employees' well-being. Raquel added that Stafi offers different types of coaches to support the virtual staff representatives. Their client success team is in constant touch with the law firm owners, acting as their business partners. Demetrio and Raquel emphasized helping law firms and lawyers with business development and sales strategies. They pointed out that many law firms mistakenly believe they need to hire more paralegals when what they need is to free up their time and focus on growing their business. Stafi aims to help them find someone who can handle certain aspects of their business just as well, if not better, than they can, allowing them to scale their business to the next level. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Demetrio Rico and Raquel Gomez, co-founders of Stafi Overview of Stafi's services for law firms specializing in virtual staffing Strict vetting and screening process for hiring virtual staff In-house training and ongoing support for virtual staff Different types of coaches and client success teams for support and engagement Advantages of partnering with Stafi instead of recruiting locally Importance of helping law firms with business development and sales strategies Empathy and sales skills in a receptionist or intake person role Negative impact of interruptions on efficiency About Raquel Gomes: Raquel Gomes, a passionate entrepreneur and advocate for women in business, hails from the south of Brazil. Armed with a unique blend of expertise as a licensed psychologist with an MBA in International Business, Raquel is the founder of Stafi. Her company specializes in sourcing highly qualified offshore staff, enabling business owners, particularly women entrepreneurs, to focus on core tasks that drive client satisfaction and business growth. Having excelled as a sales Rockstar and a leader of Rockstar Sales Teams, Raquel emphasizes the importance of balancing professional success with cherished moments with loved ones and self-love. Despite her success in business, family and friends hold paramount importance in her life. A fascinating aspect of Raquel's journey is her upbringing without television until age 16, instilling in her a unique perspective on screen time and fostering a creative mindset, a principle she now applies in raising her daughter. About Demetrio Rico: Demetrio Rico, a seasoned professional with over two decades of experience, has significantly impacted the global telecommunications sector through his leadership in successful sales teams. Demetrio recently served as the Global Vice President of Sales for 2600Hz, contributing to the company's rapid growth. Before this role, Demetrio held key positions, including Global Director of Service Provider Development for Five9, where he played a pivotal role in launching cloud contact centers for service providers. His extensive journey includes serving as Director of Customer Experience for Cisco and as Global Vice President of Professional Services for Broadsoft, leading a substantial team with an impressive annual revenue of over 16 million dollars. Demetrio's wealth of team management experience and business skills led him to his current role as Stafi's Chief Operating Officer, marking a new chapter in his impactful career. About Stafi: Stafi is a dynamic company that boasts a skilled team comprising executive and personal assistants alongside customer service specialists. With a commitment to providing scalable and flexible staffing solutions, Stafi caters to the needs of global legal firms and tech companies. Their services encompass diverse professional roles and promise cost-effective and low-risk staffing solutions. By offering a mix of executive and personal assistants, Stafi addresses the multifaceted demands of businesses, allowing them to optimize their workforce efficiently. The company's emphasis on scalability and flexibility ensures that clients can adapt their staffing needs according to the evolving requirements of their projects or operations. Stafi's innovative approach aims to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, making it a valuable partner for legal and tech entities seeking reliable and adaptive staffing solutions. Apply to be a

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Cribworks, Whitney Stowell. Whitney's expertise lies in helping companies build their sales pipelines and account management plans to position themselves for success. In our conversation, she shared invaluable insights every business owner should know. Whitney's work involves identifying leaks in the sales pipeline and addressing why leads may not convert into demo meetings or potential proposals. She emphasizes the importance of vetting opportunities and understanding the customer's needs and preferences, especially in larger enterprise-level deals. Whitney also mentioned the importance of professional associations as a valuable source of warm leads and partnership opportunities. These associations provide a platform for networking and building relationships that can lead to potential business opportunities. In terms of sales cadences, Whitney suggests considering whether there is a compelling event or reason for the customer to move forward with the opportunity. She emphasizes the importance of understanding the customer's motivations and needs to avoid spinning wheels on unproductive engagements. Whitney advises against being pushy or solely focused on selling. Instead, she suggests leaning into the role of a trusted advisor and treating customers like friends. By genuinely advocating for their best interests, you can create the best possible outcomes for them. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Whitney Stoll, CEO and Founder of Carriageworks Focus on building sales pipelines and account management plans Identifying leaks in the sales pipeline and addressing conversion issues Importance of vetting opportunities and understanding customer needs Role of emotions and relationships in sales, particularly in government contracting Importance of differentiation and addressing customer needs Importance of asking great questions and active listening Consideration of compelling events and customer motivations in sales cadences Importance of staying engaged with customers and providing relevant content About Whitney Stowell: Whitney Stowell is the CEO and Founder of Cribworks, a Washington, DC-based sales and business development consulting firm specializing in data-driven sales growth services. With over 15 years of industry experience spanning commercial, startup, and government contracting, Whitney has held diverse roles in marketing, business development, corporate strategy, and government affairs. Whitney's impressive career includes contributions to notable organizations such as Signify (formerly Philips Lighting), Major League Rugby's Old Glory DC franchise, Royal Philips, Elbit Systems of America, Chenega Corporation, and the United States Senate's Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs committee. Beyond his professional endeavors, Whitney actively engages in community service. He serves on the Board of Directors for the Society of American Military Engineers (SAME) DC Post, addressing national security infrastructure challenges. In the local rugby community, Whitney has been President of the Washington Irish Rugby Football Club and supports youth rugby clubs. Additionally, he participates in various organizations in Washington DC, including the Smart Cities Group, Association for United States Army (AUSA), and USA Rugby. Whitney holds a B.A. from Bates College in Maine and certifications in business development and capture management from Shipley University. About Cribworks: Cribworks is a dynamic startup consulting firm that guides businesses through the entire business cycle. As a client-centric and results-oriented business development consulting firm, Cribworks offers affordable, comprehensive services to meet the diverse needs of its clients. Specializing in sales and business development consulting, the firm collaborates exclusively with clients to enhance their potential for success. From tactical short-term engagements to strategic long-term positioning, Cribworks delivers tangible, actionable results that propel businesses in the right direction. The firm provides a full spectrum of business development consulting services to local, state, national, and multinational clients, prioritizing delivering tailored solutions. Cribworks emphasizes direct collaboration with clients on initiatives such as developing new and existing business opportunities, competitive intelligence, marketing strategies, and sound financial decision-making. The firm is committed to fostering enduring partnerships, ensuring client businesses thrive and achieve their long-term goals. With a personalized approach that recognizes each business's unique challenges and advantages, Cribworks stands steadfastly alongside clients today, tomorrow, and into the future. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Ch

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Uniquely Normal, LLC, Matt Lesser. Matt's approach to leadership development is as unique as the organizations he works with. He tailors his strategies based on the specific needs of each organization, whether it's conflict management, communication, or other areas. Matt's work isn't limited to individual leaders; he extends his expertise to the entire organization. He provides executive coaching to senior leaders or teams and plays a crucial role in developing new organizational leaders. Matt's new book, "Unengaged: Building Flourishing Organizations," is a treasure trove of practical guidance for leaders. It explores three pillars of building a flourishing organization: empathy, empowerment, and excellence. Regarding empathy, Matt can't stress enough the importance of genuinely knowing and understanding people. He encourages leaders to take a relational approach rather than a transactional one. According to Matt, sharing stories is a great starting point as it opens the door to a person's heart. Matt believes leaders who embrace empathy, empowerment, and equipping their teams will have lower turnover and engagement issues than those who do not prioritize these aspects. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Matt Lesser, founder of Uniquely Normal and author of two books Matt's work with family businesses and focus on leadership development Matt's approach to working with individual leaders and the entire organization Discussion of Matt's new book, "Unengaged: Building Flourishing Organizations" Exploration of the three pillars of building a flourishing organization: empathy, empowerment, and excellence Emphasis on the importance of empathy and understanding in leadership Discussion on effectively communicating sensitive information within an organization The importance of empowering employees and allowing them to do their job Addressing employee concerns and taking action based on feedback About Matt Lesser: Matt Lesser, a resilient entrepreneur and seasoned executive, initially faced adversity when his family business faltered, leading him into a dark period of suicidal depression. Rising from this setback, he founded a successful company that expanded from three to nearly two hundred employees, experiencing a remarkable twenty-fold increase in revenue before a strategic sale to trusted competitors. With a twelve-year tenure in private equity C-Suite roles and subsequent transitional roles in banking and commercial uniforms, Lesser accumulated a wealth of experience. In 2021, he established Uniquely Normal, LLC, empowering leaders to address people-related challenges through empathy, empowerment, and excellence. A bestselling author with "unSatisfied: When Less is More," Lesser is also a certified executive coach adept in numerous personality, preference, and leadership assessments. He has been a sought-after keynote speaker and facilitator for over two decades, engaging leaders globally. His upcoming book, "unEngaged: Building Flourishing Organizations," is slated for release on October 24, 2023. Matt, who married his elementary school sweetheart in 1996, resides in northeast Indiana with his family. About Uniquely Normal, LLC: Uniquely Normal, LLC addresses workforce management challenges, offering a comprehensive solution to concerns such as high turnover, low engagement, and productivity issues. Specializing in equipping leaders and leadership teams, the company provides practical tools, training, coaching, and resources. By fostering the intentional development of team members, Uniquely Normal aims to transform organizations into flourishing entities. The approach yields tangible benefits, including a significant reduction in turnover, heightened engagement and productivity, efficient filling of open positions, and a notable increase in commitment and loyalty. The Uniquely Normal team employs proven practices and practical applications, focusing on three core principles: empathy, empowerment, and excellence. By intentionally integrating these principles, leaders and teams are equipped to build and sustain flourishing organizations. Uniquely Normal, LLC, thus, serves as a valuable partner for businesses seeking to enhance their team dynamics and overall organizational success. Tweetable Moments: 08:08 - "Once you see a person's heart, you will not view that person the same way again." 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 Uniquely Normal, LLC website at https://www.uniquelynormal.com/ Check out Uniquely Normal, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniquely-normal-llc/ Check out Matt Lesser on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/deb.crowe/ Check out Matt Lesser on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-lesser/ Check out Matt Lesser 2nd New book: unEngaged:

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Certified Life & Leadership Coach, Deb Crowe. Deb defines heart-centered leadership as honoring your connection with people. She firmly believes that everyone has the potential to be a leader, regardless of their title or status. Deb explained that thriving leaders possess high self-awareness and model heart-centered leadership. She emphasized the importance of looking after your people and fostering a healthy organizational culture. Deb talked about her insights on the state of leading people and what people want today. She underscored the importance of checking in with introverts on the team and creating a safe space for open communication. According to Deb, leadership belongs to all of us in our personal lives and business. She emphasizes the importance of integrating heart-centered leadership into business acumen, something she believes has been missing for a long time. She emphasizes that she coaches the whole person and focuses on creating goals and achieving them without creating codependency. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of kindness and connection in leadership State of leading people in today's world Challenges and considerations of remote work and employee engagement The definition of heart-centered leadership as honoring connection with people Thriving as a leader and imbuing heart-centered qualities Evolution of corporate wellness and looking after the whole person Importance of checking in with introverts and creating a safe space for communication Every leader should read Deb's book on heart-centered leadership Transformation leaders can expect from reading the book Deb's work as a life and leadership coach for executives at all levels About Deborah Crowe: Deborah Crowe, author of "The Heart-Centered Leadership Playbook," is a visionary leader reshaping the traditional leadership landscape. Deborah's transformative guide offers practical tools and strategies to inspire purposeful and passionate leadership at both individual and organizational levels. Praised by Claude Silver, Chief Heart Officer at VaynerMedia, and Dr. Chris Stout, bestselling author and clinical psychologist, Deborah's playbook combines personal anecdotes, research-backed insights, and practical strategies. It illuminates a path toward authentic leadership, challenging conventional norms with valuable tools and self-reflections that nurture genuine self-awareness. Deborah's book delves into the significance of embracing vulnerability, active listening, and fostering meaningful connections to unlock the true potential of leaders and their teams. Drawing on extensive research, real-world examples, and personal experiences, she provides a comprehensive roadmap for cultivating self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and ethical decision-making. "The Heart-Centered Leadership Playbook" is a must-read for aspiring leaders, seasoned executives, and anyone seeking positive change in their personal and professional lives. Deborah's work reflects a commitment to redefining leadership through heart-centered principles, making her a trailblazer in transformative leadership. Tweetable Moments: 02:53 - "They know who they are because they have an immeasurable level of self-awareness. Who wouldn't want to work for somebody like that? A heart-centered leader at the helm of any organization is fostering the creation of a healthy, vital culture." 16:43 - " I think during COVID, we got to see how we all became zombies on computers and our phones, and we were kind of stuck at home, and it was important to get up." 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 Deborah Crowe’s website at https://debcrowe.com/ Check out Deborah Crowe on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/debcrowe/ Check out Deborah Crowe on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/deb.crowe/ Check out Deborah Crowe on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/heartcenteredleader/?hl=en Check out Deborah Crowe on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Over40Wisdom 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the General Manager at Meow Wolf, Jeff Lund. Jeff Lund, the General Manager of Meow Wolf's Omega Mart in Las Vegas, shared his insights and experiences about this unique art exhibition. Meow Wolf's Omega Mart is not your typical art exhibition; it is an immersive and interactive art installation that aims to make art accessible to people of all ages. One of the highlights of Jeff's discussion was the joy and fascination he witnessed among visitors. The experience captivated children and adults, and the exhibition provided numerous opportunities for capturing memorable moments for social media enthusiasts. Jeff mentioned that the average visitor spends about an hour and a half to two hours exploring the exhibition. He also mentioned a game called "boop" that allows visitors to become grocery store employees. Jeff encouraged visitors to approach the experience openly and embrace their creativity. He hopes the exhibition will inspire visitors to explore their creativity in various art forms, such as music, painting, or other mediums. Key Points from the Episode: Description of MeowWolf as an experiential, touch-and-feel, exploratory art installation Meow Wolf's mission to make art accessible to all ages and encourage exploration Introduction of Jeff Lund as the General Manager of Omega Mart in Las Vegas Omega Mart as a grocery store with unique products and a mysterious storyline Sense of glee and fascination among visitors, including children Average time spent exploring Omega Mart (1.5 to 2 hours) Operating hours of Omega Mart (noon to midnight, weekends open at 10 am) About Jeff Lund: Jeff Lund is a seasoned professional with a diverse aviation, live events, and cruise management background. With over 13 years of experience, he honed his leadership and financial management skills in the dynamic world of business aviation, overseeing a massive marketplace of 200+ corporate jets. Jeff's journey led him to Cirque du Soleil's touring production, TOTEM, where he excelled in overseeing global operations for 130 technicians, artists, and staff across 26 cities. His innovative thinking successfully launched the VIP Behind the Scenes Tour, enhancing the guest experience and contributing millions in additional revenue. Transitioning to Carnival Cruise Line, Jeff's leadership propelled a ship from 14th to 2nd in the fleet, showcasing his ability to thrive in uncertain environments. Known for setting clear expectations and fostering high-performing teams, Jeff Lund is a proven leader with a positive attitude and a track record of success. About Meow Wolf: Meow Wolf, an avant-garde arts and entertainment company, revolutionizes immersive experiences, captivating millions with fantastical realms of imagination. Renowned for groundbreaking achievements, including Time Out's #1 Immersive Experience in the US (2023) and Fast Company's World's 50 Most Innovative Companies (2022, 2020), Meow Wolf engages curious minds through discovery and play. Collaborating with visionary artists sets them apart. This is evident in their inaugural creation, the THEA Award-winning House Of Eternal Return in Santa Fe (2016), a mystery house blending hidden passages and captivating art. Meow Wolf's recent unveiling, The Real Unreal, in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex (July 2023), and plans for a 2024 Houston location showcase their commitment to defying conventions and blurring the lines between reality and fantasy. As a certified B-Corporation, Meow Wolf stands at the forefront of themed entertainment, celebrating and innovating the boundless realm of human imagination. 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 Meow Wolf website at https://meowwolf.com/ Check out Meow Wolf on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/meow-wolf/ Check out Meow Wolf on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/meowwolf.sf Check out Meow Wolf on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/meow__wolf/ Check out Meow Wolf on Twitter at https://twitter.com/meowwolf Check out Jeff Lund on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-lund-60aa761/ Check out Bill Simmons on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jeffdlund 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO of Thrive Business Operations, Bill Simmons. Bill Simmons founded Thrive Business Operations with a clear vision in mind. He saw a gap in the market for outsourced executive leadership, specifically on the operations side of businesses. For over a decade, Thrive Business Operations has been offering fractional SEO services and serving as a chief operations officer for various businesses. Bill's role is to assist business owners whose vision is outpacing their operations. While he acknowledges that he can't eliminate the gap entirely, his goal is to shrink it and help operations meet the demands of the company's vision. Bill emphasized the importance of a clear vision for founders. He believes that founders are visionaries and creators who aspire to be part of something bigger than themselves. However, he also warned against the trap of thinking that nobody can manage or love the business like the founder. This mindset, he cautioned, can limit growth and prevent the founder from scaling their business. Key Points from the Episode: Bill Simmons' role at Thrive Business Operations The need for outsourced executive leadership in operations Shrinking the gap between vision and operations The role of a founder and the importance of a clear vision The five-step process called the Thrive Ops Cycle Connecting and aligning with client values and vision Identifying impactful goals and initiatives using the OKR framework The involvement of the Thrive team in client's operations About Bill Simmons: Bill Simmons is a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience dedicated to aiding business owners in enhancing profits and reducing frustrations through strategic execution and organizational advancement. As the founder of Thrive Business Operations, he specializes in Fractional COO Services, addressing operational challenges for growing businesses. Bill's expertise extends to leadership and success, and he has captivated audiences worldwide, delivering impactful speeches to over 250,000 individuals. His gift as a storyteller inspires and imparts valuable insights from his wealth of experience. Thrive Business Operations focuses on unlocking business growth by integrating a Fractional Team and optimizing operations through The Thrive OpsCycle, emphasizing smooth operations, improved communication, and heightened accountability. About Thrive Business Operations: Thrive Business Operations specializes in Fractional COO Services, offering expertise in team building to bring entrepreneurial visions to fruition. Targeting entrepreneurs and small business leaders seeking relief from the challenges of having their business run them, Thrive excels in minimizing operational frustrations, even for those opposed to systems and processes. The company's strategies are designed to optimize time management, enhance team efficiency, and yield cost savings. Thrive Business Operations stands out for its commitment to streamlining operations by addressing the common struggle of businesses running individuals. Whether you dislike systems and processes or seek improved effectiveness, Thrive's approach is tailored to reduce frustrations and empower business leaders to regain control. Tweetable Moments: 03:25 - "Don't be a founder or business owner that we've all fallen into that trap where we may be tempted to say nobody does it like me, nobody will manage this or love this like me.” 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 Thrive Business Operations website at https://saragilbert.coach/ Check out Thrive Business Operations on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivebusinessoperations/ Check out Thrive Business Operations on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thrivebusinessoperations Check out Thrive Business Operations on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thrivebusinessoperations/ Check out Bill Simmons on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/billsimmonslive Check out Bill Simmons on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BillSimmonsLive Check out Bill Simmons on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/billsimmonslive/ 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.

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Strategist & Certified Coach of Strategist Business Development, Sara Gilbert. Sara Gilbert is not your average business strategist. She believes that the success of a business is not solely dependent on its strategy but also on the mindset of its leaders. According to Sara, the alignment of the business and the direction of the strategy are crucial, but they can only go as far as the mindset of the entrepreneur and leaders allow. This perspective emphasizes the importance of psychology in the success or failure of a business. Sara works closely with her clients to develop a strategic framework for their business. This framework includes the positioning of the business in the marketplace, its brand promise, values, and vision. Leveraging her expertise in psycholinguistics, Sara understands how words influence behavior. She strategically positions linguistic elements in the framework to engage both the entrepreneur and their team. By repeating and embodying these linguistic elements, they become part of the organization's vocabulary and guide decision-making. One of the challenges Sara addresses is the disconnect between organizations' mission statements and values and their daily operations. She suggests using linguistic techniques to bring these elements to life. This exercise helps create a standard and a sense of identity within the organization. By incorporating these linguistic elements into meetings, brainstorming sessions, and physical or tangible outputs, the organization can consistently live its values and demonstrate its positioning in the marketplace. Key Points from the Episode: Sara Gilbert's work as a business strategist and mindset coach The importance of business strategy and mindset in entrepreneurship The alignment of business strategy and mindset Sara's strategic framework for businesses The use of psycholinguistics in strategic positioning Bringing mission statements and values to life through linguistic techniques How to know if someone is ready for disruption and change in their life or organization Recommendations for individuals resonating with the conversation About Sara Gilbert: Sara Gilbert is a distinguished business strategist, mindset coach, and keynote speaker, recognized as a "Top 10 Up-and-Coming Entrepreneurs in 2023" by Success Magazine. Holding a Bachelor of Commerce degree in Marketing from Concordia University, she boasts top designations in wealth management and double certification in personal and professional coaching with neurolinguistic programming (NLP). Sara is among the select Canadian coaches invited to the Forbes Coaches Council, an honor reserved for eminent business coaches. She's also a Harvard Business Review Advisory Council member and the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers. A multi-passionate entrepreneur, Sara is deeply intrigued by business, consumer psychology, and human behavior. Her unconventional journey led her to create a unique business model that addresses the intersection of business, mindset, and behavioral patterns. Sara's turnkey approach assists entrepreneurs and business leaders develop a growth mindset, implement efficient processes, and execute profitable marketing strategies. As a trusted coach, she empowers individuals and corporations to structure their businesses for success and a balanced lifestyle, earning accolades for her impactful work in business development and coaching. Tweetable Moments: 09:03 - "Being an anti-drifter is about bringing intentionality into our life and bringing life into our life and our business.” 9:30 - “Complaining is not a bad thing. Complaining is like, 'I know there's more and I know there's more in me as well.'" 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 Strategist Business Development website at https://saragilbert.coach/ Check out Strategist Business Development Inc on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategist-business-development/ Check out Sara Gilbert on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/SaraGilbertStrategist Check out Sara Gilbert on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/saragilbertstrategist/ Check out Sara Gilbert on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/saragilbert/ 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.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Afterburner Inc., Christian Boucousis. Boo, a former fighter pilot, shed light on the Afterburner mindset, a concept deeply rooted in his experiences in the cockpit. He explained that this mindset is not just about grit and determination, but also about analytical thinking and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment. As a fighter pilot, Boo explained, everything happens quickly. There is a constant need to balance the unknown (the airplane's trajectory) with the known (the pilot's control). This mindset, he believes, is a blend of the art of strategy and the science of getting things done. Boo emphasized the importance of storytelling and creating a compelling narrative in business. He drew parallels between the captivating narratives of "Lord of the Rings" and "Star Wars" and the often lackluster stories in the business world. Afterburner, he explained, helps organizations create a high-definition destination, a clear and purposeful story that aligns everyone's actions. Boo stressed the importance of debriefing in a supportive peer group, as they can help identify blind spots and provide valuable insights. He compared this process to cognitive behavioral therapy, where emotions are unpacked through action. He also highlighted the significance of having a clear purpose and the need to achieve tangible results, as positive thoughts alone may not be enough. Key Points from the Episode: Afterburner mindset and its connection to being a fighter pilot Importance of analytical thinking and working in a fast-paced environment The art of strategy and the science of getting things done Importance of storytelling and creating a compelling narrative in business Afterburner methodology: plan, brief, execute, and debrief ORCA process: Objective, Result, Cause, and Action Importance of debriefing in a supportive peer group Working with large enterprises and small/medium-sized businesses Afterburner offerings: keynotes, experiential programs, learning and development modules About Christian Boucousis: Christian Boucousis, widely known as "Boo," serves as the CEO of Afterburner, a global human and organizational performance company. Renowned as a world-class keynote speaker, Boo employs a results-oriented approach that has left a lasting impact on individuals and organizations worldwide.   Boo's revolutionary "Evolutionary Way of Thinking" has transformed the approach to achieving immediate and sustained performance leaps, discarding outdated models. His innovative concept of "Thought Loops" imparts fast-thinking, fast-acting skills to leaders and teams, fostering a growth mindset and enabling consistent surpassing of expectations. With a proven track record, Boo has received countless positive reviews from satisfied clients, showcasing the tangible impact of his insights. His life story, marked by adaptability and reinvention, reflects his ability to succeed in adversity. From fighter pilot to building a humanitarian business with a $200 million turnover and leading transformative projects, Boo's diverse experiences enrich his motivational speeches. Boo's unique blend of expertise, energy, and passion positions him as an ideal keynote speaker for those seeking inspiration and empowerment. Beyond providing tools for goal achievement, Boo inspires individuals to unlock their full potential, fostering positive impacts in both personal and professional spheres. About Afterburner Inc: Established in 1996, Afterburner Inc. pioneered integrating battlefield mission planning and strategic tactics into the corporate realm. Comprising consultants with backgrounds in elite military teams and extensive business leadership experience, Afterburner has dedicated two decades to aligning strategy with daily activities and ensuring disciplined execution of mission-critical systems. The company's renowned methodology and flawless Execution is a powerful force multiplier for organizations, facilitating alignment, focus, and effective execution of key leverage points. As practitioners of a hands-on and embedded approach, Afterburner is committed to developing leaders, enhancing communication and collaboration, fostering agility, and instilling team and individual accountability through a shared mental model. Beyond immediate engagements, Afterburner's goal is to contribute to the sustained success of organizations. With a mission to make client success its own, Afterburner remains a trusted partner in driving organizational excellence. Tweetable Moments: 5:17 - “So if you start with known and unknown and you want to turn that into success, so the unknown is more the art of strategy. If we take those two states and we say yes, despite that being unknown, I still have to get things done and I still have to be successful.” 11:11 - “Self awareness is one of the hardest things to have. We want to be self aware, but at the same time we don't

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Edinger Consulting, Scott K. Edinger. Scott emphasizes that growth is not just a sales issue, but a leadership one. He underscores the importance of aligning sales with strategy. A shocking statistic he shared is that 86% of CEOs do little to nothing to align sales with strategy, which he finds tragic. Many executives, he explains, focus on the capabilities of their products and services and expect the sales team to simply go out and sell them. Scott also talks about the need for sales teams to focus on creating value in the sales experience rather than just communicating the product or service's value. He suggests having conversations with customers where expertise is shared and insights are provided to help them achieve their objectives. This approach differentiates the sales team and eliminates the need for pressuring customers for a close at the end of the quarter. However, Scott believes executives should be more engaged with their sales team and recognize that the sales experience can be a differentiating factor. He emphasizes that sales is executing the company's strategy and that success or failure occurs on every sales call. Scott generously discusses the free resources available on his website, scottedinger.com. He has written a hundred articles for publications such as Harvard Business Review, Forbes, Fast Company, and Chief Executive, and provides links to all of them on the website's articles page. These articles cover topics related to leadership, strategy, and sales. Scott also mentions a 30-page workbook called the Growth Leader Workbook, which can be downloaded from the website's books page. This workbook is a companion to his book and provides practical application of its ideas. The workbook contains charts and graphs that can be helpful for sales professionals. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of aligning sales with strategy Sales as the execution of the company's strategy Differentiating through the sales experience Inspiring and motivating teams for growth Free resources available on Scott Edinger's website Articles covering leadership, strategy, and sales The Growth Leader Workbook as a companion to the book Importance of creating value in the sales experience Eliminating the need for pressuring customers for a close Focusing on delivering value and advocating for customers' objectives About Scott K. Edinger: Renowned business growth consultant Scott K. Edinger, in his latest book, "The Growth Leader: Strategies to Drive the Top and Bottom Lines," addresses the critical link between C-Suite strategy and sales force execution for sustainable business growth. Drawing on his extensive experience working with CEOs and Senior Leaders of Fortune 500 companies, Scott emphasizes the importance of shifting focus from mere sales transactions to creating enduring customer value. As he terms it, the key to achieving "graceful growth" is fostering effective communication between leadership and sales teams. By closing the gap between strategic vision and its implementation on the front lines, businesses can achieve a harmonious synergy that combines speed, power, and coordination. Scott's insights underscore that genuine and lasting growth is not solely a sales challenge but a leadership imperative for organizations aiming to thrive in today's competitive landscape. About Edinger Consulting: Edinger Consulting is a sought-after firm, attracting clients such as AT&T, Lenovo, McDonald's, and The Los Angeles Times, all driven by the desire for substantial growth. The consultancy, led by Scott K. Edinger, specializes in collaborating with senior leaders to formulate and implement strategies that yield enhanced top and bottom-line outcomes. Scott, a distinguished consultant, author, advisor, and speaker, is renowned for catalyzing positive transformations within client organizations. His expertise mainly centers on leadership strategies geared towards achieving revenue growth. Through strategic insight and practical execution, Edinger Consulting has established itself as a trusted partner for companies seeking to navigate the complexities of business expansion and achieve sustainable success in today's competitive market landscape. Tweetable Moments: 03:50 - "When all things look equal or similar, then it's the sales experience that can differentiate you and not enough executives put their focus on that or at least put enough focus on that." 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 Edinger Consulting website at https://www.juliankharris.co.uk/ Check out Edinger Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/edinger-consulting/ Check out Scott K. Edinger on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-edinger/ Check out Scott K. Edinger on Twitter at https://twitter.com/

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Julian Harris Services Limited, Julian Harris. Julian Harris, a seasoned leadership coach delved into the often overlooked challenges and isolation faced by leaders, particularly founders and CEOs. Julian shared his insights on the importance of having a mentor or sounding board to share concerns and seek guidance. With his extensive experience working with leaders, Julian emphasized the importance of having someone to talk to about these concerns. As a business grows, these two roles can become distinct, each with its responsibilities and challenges. Julian, leveraging his background as a former attorney, explained how he helps clients identify their passions and delegate tasks effectively, a crucial skill for both founders and CEOs. Without a sounding board, leaders can find themselves lost in their thoughts, leading to unclear decision-making. Julian's coaching approach focuses on helping clients find clarity, connect with their innate wisdom, and tap into their creativity. Julian also stressed the importance of self-care, comparing it to the safety briefing on an airplane, where you must put on your oxygen mask before helping others. Looking after oneself is crucial for effectively managing business and personal relationships. Key Points from the Episode: Challenges and isolation faced by leaders, particularly founders and CEOs Importance of having a sounding board or mentor for leaders Role of a founder versus a CEO Potential consequences of not having a mentor Pains and complaints that leaders often share with a coach Coaching philosophy and approach to helping clients find clarity and connect with their innate wisdom and creativity Importance of slowing down and taking time for reflection in decision-making Julian Harris' experience as a leadership coach and working with leaders who feel lonely and struggle to find someone to talk to Value of a decelerated day for deep thinking, self-reflection, and exploring important questions About Julian Harris: Julian Harris, founder of Julian Harris Services, is a seasoned commercial lawyer with a 20-year track record, having served notable brands like Nike, Twinings, Sports Direct, Asda, Manchester United, and Primark. His vision for making a substantial impact led him to establish his coaching venture, where he now specializes in working with business leaders aiming to change the world. Based in London, Julian seamlessly integrates his legal expertise with leadership coaching, helping clients on both sides of the Atlantic. With a passion for drawing out the untapped potential in individuals, he empowers business owners and leaders to become the best versions of themselves. Known for his attentiveness and thought-provoking questions, Julian facilitates clarity and confidence among his clients, even when they struggle to recognize their strengths. About Julian Harris Services Limited: Julian Harris Services, founded by Julian Harris, reflects his transformative journey from a legal career to coaching, driven by a desire to create a more profound impact on the world. Motivated by the brevity and preciousness of life, Julian aspires to leave a meaningful legacy by facilitating positive change. As a coach, he focuses on aiding individuals who share a vision of making a difference in the world, aligning their goals with his own aspiration to contribute to a better global future. With a commitment to helping others, Julian's coaching endeavors become a conduit for realizing his vision by empowering those who seek to bring about positive change, embodying the ethos that small actions can collectively make a significant impact on the world. 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 Julian Harris Services website at https://www.juliankharris.co.uk/ Check out Julian Harris Services on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/julian-harris-legacy-coach/ Check out Julian Harris on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliankharris/ 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.