The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Co-Founder of Metaforce, Allen Adamson.Metaforce, the marketing and brand consulting firm co-founded by Allan, is dedicated to helping clients tell their stories effectively. They work with B2B companies, both enterprise and small businesses, whose narratives are not sharp or memorable. Their mission is to help these companies craft a creative story that captures their audience's attention and makes them want to know more.Allen emphasized the importance of storytelling and compelling communication in marketing. He pointed out that simply being aware of a product or company is insufficient to generate interest or engagement. Instead, businesses must convey a clear message about their product or service and how it can benefit their target audience.One common mistake Allan highlighted is the tendency of marketers to prioritize awareness over message clarity. Many marketers jump straight to increasing awareness through platforms like TikTok or viral marketing without first defining and expressing their unique value proposition. Allen cautioned against this approach, as it often leads to forgettable advertisements that fail to resonate with consumers.To overcome this challenge, Allen suggests businesses step out of their comfort zones and seek diverse perspectives. He encourages marketers to surround themselves with people who see the world differently and are unafraid to challenge their ideas. By doing so, businesses can gain fresh insights and avoid becoming complacent.Allen also emphasized the need for continuous learning and adaptation in today's rapidly changing business landscape. He advises businesses to stay curious and slightly paranoid about the potential obsolescence of their offerings. Companies can stay ahead of the curve by constantly exploring new experiences, engaging with different people, and staying informed about industry trends.Key Points from the Episode:Metaforce as a marketing and brand consulting firm that helps clients tell their story effectivelyFocus on helping clients define and communicate their story clearly and crisplyWorking with B2B companies, both enterprise and small businesses, to craft a captivating storyExample of weak stories and how they can be transformed to be more compellingImportance of identifying the most compelling aspect of a product or service to grab audience attentionParallel between this approach and movie trailersEmphasis on storytelling and effective communication in marketingCaution against prioritizing awareness over message clarityAbout Allen Adamson:Allen Adamson is a renowned branding expert with a diverse background spanning various industries. With experience in consumer goods, technology, healthcare, financial services, hospitality, and entertainment, he excels in helping clients identify and capitalize on opportunities in their markets.His latest book, "Seeing the How," published in May 2023, emphasizes the importance of the consumer experience as a competitive advantage in today's marketing landscape.Adamson's extensive knowledge is rooted in his career on both the agency and client sides. He began at Unilever, gaining insights into consumer perspectives before moving to agencies like Ogilvy & Mather and Landor Associates, where he partnered with global brands. He also contributed to non-profit organizations such as the 9/11 Memorial and Museum.As an educator, Adamson has served as an Adjunct Professor at New York University and Cornell University, sharing his expertise on brand challenges in a dynamic marketplace. He is a sought-after industry commentator, appearing on major news networks and contributing to prominent publications.Co-founding Metaforce, a disruptive marketing consultancy, he offers clients multidisciplinary strategies to stay ahead of evolving customer needs. With degrees from Syracuse University and NYU Stern School of Business, Allen Adamson is a trusted authority in the world of branding.About Metaforce:Metaforce is a highly specialized consultancy designed to address business challenges with precision and expertise swiftly. Comprising a team of top-tier professionals spanning various domains, including strategy, branding, creative, digital, and marketing, Metaforce stands out for its unique composition of former CMOs, entrepreneurs, and agency experts.The company's approach is efficient and results-oriented, assembling tailored teams for each project, eliminating unnecessary meetings and bureaucracy. This approach ensures a strategic focus and flawless execution, delivering the right solutions precisely when needed.Metaforce's partners boast extensive experience with leading global corporations such as Amazon, American Express, Coca-Cola, Goldman Sachs, and Microsoft. With a commitment to cutting through complexity and delivering effective solutions promptly, Metaforce is a trusted resource for businesses seeking rapid and impactful outcom

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Business Coach and Mentor, Jonny Cooper.Jonny's unique perspective on marketing, especially for online solopreneurs, is a breath of fresh air in an industry often seen as a necessary evil.The name "Jonny Hates Marketing" was born during a podcast interview where we discussed marketing practices that lacked respect. Johnny realized that many of his community members shared his sentiment, viewing marketing as a pain and a necessary evil. But Jonny's hatred for marketing isn't about the concept itself but how it's often executed.Jonny believes marketing should be about solving someone's problem rather than self-promotion. He quotes Seth Godin's definition of marketing as the generous act of solving someone's problem. This approach requires a deep understanding of your ideal client's challenges, hopes, and dreams.One of the critical points Johnny emphasizes is the importance of building communities and creating a sense of belonging for ideal clients. When people feel that people like them work with a particular service provider, they will likely trust and believe in that provider's products or services.Johnny works with coaches and therapists either starting their businesses or struggling to attract clients. He helps them clarify what they do in simple terms, identify their target audience, and develop their signature programs or offers.Key Points from the Episode:Jonny Cooper's work and why he hates marketing Focusing on working with online solopreneurs (coaches, therapists, consultants) How the name "Johnny Hates Marketing" came about Marketing as solving someone's problem rather than self-promotion Importance of understanding ideal clients and their challenges, hopes, and dreamsBuilding communities and creating a sense of belonging for ideal clients Helping coaches and therapists clarify what they do, identify target audience, and develop signature programs/offersThree pillars of online therapy or coaching: what, who, and how Recommendations for taking action: reviewing language and copy, understanding the audience, sharing client transformationsAbout Jonny Cooper:Jonny Cooper is a British author, accomplished piano player, and international racing driver. He is best known as the founder of JonnyHatesMarketing, where he has significantly impacted business and coaching.Having successfully grown a business to 8-figures and subsequently exited, Jonny now dedicates his expertise to supporting coaches, trainers, therapists, and consultants in establishing their personal brands and thriving practices while achieving a life of abundance.His Client Attraction Blueprint program consistently attracts eager students and aligns with his goal of impacting the lives of 1,000,000 transformation professionals by 2025.Jonny's Three Pillars of Effortless Marketing blueprints universal success and growth, particularly benefiting aspiring coaches and therapists. He is passionate about elevating the average income within the profession.Additionally, Jonny is the driving force behind the influential Jonny Hates Marketing Facebook Group, which has generated over $1 million in sales despite his humorous insistence that he still hates marketing.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 JonnyHatesMarketing website athttps://jonnyhatesmarketing.com/Check out JonnyHatesMarketing on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/jonnyhatesmarketing/Check out Jonny Cooper on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jonnycooper/Check out Jonny Cooper on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/jonnycooperUKCheck out Jonny Cooper on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jonnyhatesmarketing/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of Fluex Media, Joel Freund. Joel Freund, the man behind Fluex Media, has built a company that assists individuals, particularly executives, CEOs, and founders, in establishing a robust LinkedIn presence. He likens LinkedIn to a massive networking event, a platform allowing professionals from all industries to connect and engage. However, Joel warns against the misuse of this platform. He advises against spamming and mass messaging, which can be off-putting and potentially ruin budding relationships. Instead, he suggests treating LinkedIn interactions like real-life networking events, building genuine relationships and finding common ground with others. Joel emphasizes the importance of sharing valuable content that resonates with your audience. This not only establishes credibility but also attracts engagement. While Fluex Media offers services to assist with LinkedIn presence, Joel believes most people can manage it themselves. The key, he says, is to approach LinkedIn with a human touch, taking the time to research and personalize messages before reaching out to others. Joel emphasizes the importance of having a well-written LinkedIn profile, as it is often the first place people go to learn more about someone. He mentions that many profiles are not properly written and urges listeners to use this opportunity to showcase themselves effectively. Key Points from the Episode: LinkedIn as a platform for networking and building relationships Importance of treating LinkedIn interactions like real-life networking events Avoiding spamming and mass messaging on LinkedIn Sharing valuable content to establish credibility and attract engagement Managing LinkedIn presence with a human touch LinkedIn as a platform for showcasing personality and humanity Fluex Media's services for managing LinkedIn presence Importance of a well-written LinkedIn profile Tailoring LinkedIn strategy to client's goals and target audience About Joel Freund: Joel Freund is a visionary founder and a hands-on leader at Fluex. His blend of leadership acumen and expertise in business and marketing makes him an indispensable asset to the company. Joel is dedicated to empowering his team and clients to excel as leaders in their own right. What drives him professionally is guiding business owners to overcome obstacles and attain self-sufficiency, with his ultimate pride stemming from their independence. Outside of work, Joel indulges in various passions. He's a musician, using his creative talents to play music. Moreover, he's deeply committed to community-building, fostering connections among people. Remarkably, Joel also demonstrates his altruism by donating kidneys, an act of extraordinary compassion that speaks volumes about his character and commitment to positively impacting the world. Joel Freund's multi-faceted talents and generous spirit shine through his professional and personal endeavors. About Fluex Media: Fluex Media is not your typical marketing agency. Founded with a bold vision of redefining success, they set their sights on achievements beyond mere leads or revenue. Their mission transcends the ordinary, aiming for nothing less than a groundbreaking impact on the business landscape. Initially met with skepticism, Fluex's unconventional approach quickly proved its worth. Their unique strategies yielded tangible results, and they have since assisted numerous ambitious businesses in achieving remarkable growth and expanding their reach. Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or an established company, Fluex Media will help you soar beyond your expectations. Fluex Media's commitment to pushing boundaries and fostering remarkable success sets them apart in marketing. If you're seeking a partner with a visionary perspective and a track record of empowering businesses to achieve greatness, look no further than Fluex Media. 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 Fluex Media website at https://fluexmedia.com/ Check out Fluex Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fluexmedia/ Check out Joel Freund on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joefreund/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Certified Business & Leadership Coach of Gener8 Leadership Solutions & 90-Day Divas Ltd., Jennifer Myers. Jennifer Myers, a certified leadership and business coach, aims to impact at least 1 million business professionals positively. She helps leaders and teams elevate their performance and shares an inspiring story of how attending one of her events transformed a woman's life. This experience motivated Jennifer to focus on helping leaders make an impact in their businesses. Jennifer also discussed the significance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership. Being too polished can create a disconnect while sharing vulnerability can build connections and trust. She noted that women leaders often excel at connecting with their teams but emphasized the importance of finding a balance. She suggests connecting on LinkedIn to learn more about her personality and approach to working with Jennifer. She starts by understanding clients' goals and challenges through a conversation. Jennifer then tailors a coaching curriculum using her resources and tools to support their growth. Regular accountability and action are essential in her coaching process. Key Points from the Episode: Jennifer Myers' work as a certified leadership and business coach Jennifer's mission to have a positive impact on 1 million business professionals The importance of influence in leadership and communication The impact of leaders' behavior and decisions on others The challenge of hiding intentions and persona in today's world The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership The balance between openness and professionalism for women leaders How to work with Jennifer individually or for teams Jennifer's coaching process and use of resources and tools About Jennifer Myers: Jennifer Myers is an accomplished American expatriate now residing in New Zealand. She boasts a rich portfolio as a Certified Business and Leadership Coach, international best-selling author, speaker, and trainer. Jennifer's expertise lies in strategy, leadership, communication, and sales. Her journey to New Zealand began in 2009 when she and her husband realized their lives were being overtaken by their commitments. They decided to take control and, within 10 months, sold or gave away their possessions, condensing their life into three suitcases and three boxes. They then embarked on a transformative journey with three one-way plane tickets to New Zealand, a place they had never visited. Jennifer now owns Gener8 Leadership Solutions and has over a decade of experience as a Certified Business and Leadership Coach and Trainer. She specializes in developing leaders and enhancing team communication using the DISC behavioral styles model. As an Executive Director with the John Maxwell Team for the past three years, Jennifer encourages her clients to step outside their comfort zones, facilitating their growth and business development. Jennifer's story is a testament to her ability to embrace change and inspire transformation. About 90-Day Divas Ltd.: 90-Day Divas is a transformative initiative on a mission to empower individuals who believe they have untapped potential, aiming to help them thrive in their personal and business lives. Comprising three accomplished businesswomen, 90-Day Divas draws from over a decade of experience serving clients in New Zealand and internationally. These dynamic women possess unique talents and skill sets, often called their "superpowers." They specialize in personal growth, business and leadership expertise, and marketing and technical acumen. What sets 90-Day Divas apart is their collective determination to assist individuals in realizing their inherent power. Whether you're looking to breathe life into a stagnant business or embark on a new entrepreneurial journey, 90-Day Divas is here to guide and support you on the path to success. With their wealth of experience and diverse skillsets, they are dedicated to helping you unlock your full potential and achieve your goals. About Gener8 Leadership Solutions: Gener8 Leadership Solutions is a distinguished consultancy specializing in empowering corporate leaders across the globe to enhance their leadership, communication, and sales skills. Their team of certified coaches and consultants excels at crafting bespoke solutions designed to boost leaders' effectiveness, ultimately driving increased profitability for their businesses. What sets Gener8 Leadership Solutions apart is its affiliation with the worldwide Maxwell Leadership team, which provides them access to exclusive tools and resources. With over two decades of experience, Gener8 Leadership Solutions recognized a common need among business leaders: the desire to become more influential and effective communicators. Many, however, lacked guidance in achieving this goal and selecting the right provider. Gener8 Leadership Solutions addresses

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO of Infinite Investment Systems, Ali Zahedi. Ali shed light on the operations of Infinite Investment Systems, highlighting their continuous efforts to improve their onboarding process and add features to their mature platform. Despite the challenges of taking on larger institutions as clients, they've experienced significant organic growth, expanding their team from 17 to 57 employees during the pandemic. Ali emphasized that while they primarily serve Canadian wealth managers, they also work with technology companies and anyone in the wealth management and finance industry who needs extensive data management and reporting services. They are open to exploring new jurisdictions and markets, leveraging their experience and success in Canada. Ali also shared some exciting new projects and opportunities that Infinite Investment Systems is exploring. They are focusing on AI and machine learning, building a team to develop new applications to benefit their existing clients and attract new ones. They are also considering acquisitions to expand their business further. Key Points from the Episode: Services offered by Infinite Investment Systems Focus on the Canadian market and regulatory requirements Operations and growth of Infinite Investment Systems Building relationships and expanding market share Exploration of AI and machine learning applications Consideration of acquisitions for business expansion Target audience and expertise in wealth management Potential opportunities for collaboration in new jurisdictions and markets Introduction of Infinite Stories podcast series Personalized approach of Infinite Investment Systems About Ali Zahedi: Ali Zahedi is the CEO and co-founder of Infinite Investment Systems, a company he established in 2004 with his partner Ahmad. He embarked on his career in the financial industry in 1998, initially working as a developer for a company specializing in financial systems within the Canadian market. Holding a degree in Software Engineering from the University of Toronto, Ali initially concentrated on system development and the marketing of Harmony, a software solution, before transitioning to a leadership role overseeing system implementation. Today, Ali is pivotal in steering the company's growth and direction. His extensive experience and educational background continue to engage him in specific system implementation and product development aspects. Ali's journey from a software developer to the CEO of Infinite Investment Systems underscores his commitment to innovation and excellence in the financial technology sector. About Infinite Investment Systems: Infinite Investment Systems, established in 2004, has been a trusted partner for investment management firms across Canada. Their flagship portfolio management system, Harmony, has been a cornerstone of their commitment to delivering comprehensive solutions and exceptional client support. With a team combining extensive experience in both the financial industry and software engineering, Infinite Investment Systems ensures that clients benefit from cutting-edge technology solutions and top-tier service. Their dedication to the Canadian investment management sector is evident in their proactive approach to adapting to evolving regulations and industry mandates. Infinite Investment Systems greatly emphasizes guiding clients to avoid operational challenges and constraints. Crucially, they collaborate closely with each client to ensure that their solutions are tailored to accommodate evolving business needs and requirements, reflecting their commitment to fostering client success in a dynamic financial 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 Infinite Investment Systems website at https://www.inf-systems.com/ Check out Infinite Investment Systems on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/infinite-investment-systems/ Check out Ali Zahedi on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/zahediali/ Check out Ali Zahedi on Twitter at https://twitter.com/alizahedi Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Rogers Holding Group, Patrick Rogers. Patrick works with various companies, helping them realize the potential of acquisitions as a growth strategy. He pointed out that many business owners are so focused on organic growth that they overlook the possibility of acquisitions. With the current buyer's market, especially with many baby boomers retiring, much equity is left on the table. Patrick explained that good acquisitions can be financed, with the average needed amount around 10% of the purchase price. The goal of acquisitions, according to Patrick, is to achieve freedom for entrepreneurs by acquiring companies that already have management in place. Patrick emphasized the importance of having a clear exit plan and a comprehensive acquisition strategy. The strategy, he explained, depends on the desired exit plan and can involve buying competitors, expanding geographically, or acquiring complementary businesses. Patrick shared an example of a successful acquisition in the HVAC industry, demonstrating the concept of using acquisitions to grow a company's revenue. He explained how buying a $4 million company can lead to exponential growth. The revenue doubled by acquiring another $4 million company the following year to $8 million. This pattern continues, with each acquisition increasing the revenue exponentially. As the company's revenue (EBITDA) increases, the multiple used to determine its value increases, attracting more investment and creating value out of thin air. Key Points from the Episode: Patrick's transition into mergers and acquisitions Types of companies Patrick works with and the value he brings to their growth plans The current buyer's market and opportunities for acquisitions The financial aspect of acquisitions and available financing The importance of having a clear exit plan and comprehensive acquisition strategy Example of a successful acquisition in the HVAC industry Using acquisitions to grow a company's revenue exponentially Calculating the value of a company using a multiple Patrick's association with Sterling Cooper and the importance of branding About Patrick Rogers: Patrick Rogers is an accomplished industry expert and business advisor, having consulted numerous organizations to enhance leadership, strategy, and culture. With a focus on acquisitions, Patrick collaborates with business owners to double their enterprises annually, while his certified exit planning expertise ensures maximum value before the sale. He embodies his advice as a business owner of two seven-figure service companies, employing acquisition for their growth. He co-owns a property management roll-up concept and a private equity firm. Patrick excels in leadership, evidenced by achieving 42% growth as a Sales/Service Representative leader and directing naval teams, fostering his skillset. He's a dedicated father of two, an avid reader, an outdoor enthusiast, and a talented musician. Patrick's multifaceted experience showcases his business, leadership, and personal skills. About Rogers Holding Group: Rogers Consulting Group partners directly with CEOs to design and implement comprehensive plans integrating industry-proven methodologies. These encompass sales and marketing strategies, financial planning, strategic roadmaps, servant leadership, operational streamlining, open book management, and fostering organizational culture and morale. The company's key emphasis is perpetually enhancing "Enterprise Value," not solely in preparation for sales or offers. The Group's mission revolves around establishing a self-sustaining business model that significantly reduces upper management stress and time investment by up to 80%. Leveraging their tried-and-true processes, they consistently achieve remarkable results, with an average company valuation increase of 4x within 3-5 years. Rogers Consulting Group's expertise lies in orchestrating lasting operational success and financial growth for their clients. Tweetable Moments: 05:52 - "When entrepreneurs get true freedom and get out of the day to day of running their one business by being able to acquire other companies, the financials are such that they're able to get that freedom and entrepreneurs, as you and I both know, do amazing things with freedom. They give back, they impact the world in a whole new way." 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 RecruitGyan website at https://patrickvrogers.com/ Check out Patrick Rogers on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickvrogers/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of RecruitGyan, Neha Naik. Neha, the dynamic leader of RecruitGyan, explained that her company primarily works with tech startups, helping them scale their teams and find the right talent. They also extend their services to enterprise companies and individuals seeking career transitions. With a focus on roles in product engineering, product management, product design, UI/UX, and data science, RecruitGyan is a crucial player in the tech recruitment industry. Neha advised against treating hiring as a last-minute triage situation and emphasized the importance of creating a strong first impression. She suggested being active on a chosen social media platform and offering competitive benefits and compensation to attract high-calibre candidates. Nia believes that if companies pay below market value, they will struggle to attract the desired talent and may become stuck in a frustrating cycle. Neha observed that many companies are transitioning from fully remote to either entirely in-person or a hybrid model. However, she warned that abruptly moving to an in-person work environment without any transition period can lead to employee turnover. People have grown accustomed to the flexibility of remote work and prefer working from anywhere at any time. To address this, Neha suggested a shift in measuring employee performance. Instead of focusing on the number of hours worked, she recommends evaluating output based on milestones and the quality of work produced. This allows employees to have more flexibility in their work hours while still being accountable for their deliverables. Key Points from the Episode: Discussion on the current job market and the impact of layoffs Strategies for attracting and retaining top talent Focus on roles in product engineering, product management, product design, UI/UX, and data science Companies scaling back after the initial push for remote work during the pandemic Caution in hiring due to the impending recession and focus on profitability Importance of creating a strong first impression and being active on social media Offering competitive benefits and compensation to attract high-caliber candidates Transition from fully remote to in-person or hybrid work models About Neha Naik: Neha Naik is a multifaceted entrepreneur who has founded and led three thriving businesses. Her achievements span a successful recruitment agency, a sleep consultant firm, and a data analytics enterprise. Notably, Neha is an esteemed member of the Forbes Business Council, an exclusive community for accomplished small and mid-sized business proprietors. As the CEO of RecruitGyan, a specialized recruitment boutique, Neha focuses on aiding hyper-growth tech startups in assembling and retaining top-tier teams. Her strategic recruitment and retention strategies have yielded impressive results, boasting an average 92% fill rate, a 65% surge in hiring pace, and a reduction of turnover from 54% to 21%. With over ten years of experience collaborating with Fortune 500 corporations and startups in end-to-end recruitment processes, Neha extends her insights into technology recruitment and business trends through various platforms. About RecruitGyan: RecruitGyan is a pioneering force in the evolving recruitment landscape, catering to the changing dynamics of the business world. Addressing the contemporary candidate-oriented market, RecruitGyan specializes in aiding startups to attract, nurture, and advance top-tier talent, catalyzing company expansion through a workforce aligned with a forward-looking vision and strategically engaged investors. Recognizing that startup success hinges on more than just financial incentives, RecruitGyan emphasizes the significance of a comprehensive mission and vision reflecting a business's core essence and the desired cultural environment. With a keen awareness of the urgency in today's competitive environment, RecruitGyan supports startups in forging robust connections with committed investors and building enduring teams. For startups navigating times of uncertainty, RecruitGyan offers expert guidance in employee transition planning, enabling leadership to foster a resilient company with motivated personnel. Additionally, their "Start Smart Recruiting Solutions" presents a 6-week high-touch consulting package from a decade of successful recruiting practices by Neha Naik. This package has consistently delivered impressive results, boasting a remarkable 92% average fill rate, a 65% surge in hiring rates, and a remarkable turnover reduction from 54% to 21%. RecruitGyan empowers startups with strategic recruitment approaches that fuel their growth trajectory. Tweetable Moments: 06:30 - "It's always cheaper to keep your current customer happy than to acquire a new customer, and the same thing goes for recruitment." 10:18 - "People have fallen in love with the flexibility to be able to work fro

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Green Up Solutions LLC, Andy Weins. Andy's entrepreneurial journey began with his first business, a junk removal service, while he was still serving in the military reserves. After getting laid off in 2009, he realized his skill sets didn't align with the civilian world. This led him to get serious about his business. Starting with environmental consulting, he eventually expanded into junk removal. The junk removal industry, as Andy pointed out, has seen significant growth due to society's increased consumption and shorter product lifecycles. The barrier to entry in this industry is relatively low, requiring a solid back and a pickup truck. However, those who build sustainable businesses with great marketing and best practices will withstand market fluctuations. Andy believes that language plays a crucial role in overcoming imposter syndrome. By changing how we speak to ourselves, we can shift from a mindset of fear and negativity to positivity and confidence. His book teaches readers how to use language effectively to succeed in all life aspects. Andy explained that people who have eliminated limiting language have experienced a transformation in their mindset. They become aware of the possibilities and open themselves up to new opportunities. Individuals can communicate more clearly and confidently by eliminating words like "if" and "just" and focusing on positive outcomes. This shift in language also extends to the organization as a whole, positively impacting culture, profitability, and overall success. Key Points from the Episode: Transitioning from military life to civilian life and applying military discipline to entrepreneurship Andy's experience starting a junk removal business while in the military reserves Growth and challenges in the junk removal industry Overview of Andy's book, "Words Effing Matter," focusing on the power of language Coaching and consulting small groups on addressing imposter syndrome and limiting self-beliefs The role of language in overcoming imposter syndrome and shifting mindset Impact of eliminating limiting language on mindset and opportunities About Andy Weins: Andy Weins is a dynamic advocate for veterans, entrepreneurs, and community involvement, showcased through his consulting, teaching, podcasting, and writing efforts. With a background of almost two decades in the military, including service during Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, he continues his commitment as a U.S. Army Reserve Career Counselor. Hailing from Wisconsin, Andy offers practical advice to elevate veterans, entrepreneurs, and business leaders underpinned by data-driven methodologies and real-world experiences. He co-founded Green Up Solutions for environmental consulting, Camo Crew Junk Removal for waste disposal, and Young Guns, a community fostering entrepreneurial growth. Awards such as the 2023 Waste360 "40 Under 40" recognition and the 2022 Outstanding Business of the Year—Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business honor reflect his impact on waste management and business development. Andy embodies a Midwest-based, empowerment-focused ethos, serving as a source of inspiration and strategic guidance. About Green Up Solutions LLC: Green Up Solutions is a seasoned environmental consulting firm specializing in demolition, deconstruction, and sanitization services, boasting three decades of experience. As a Service-Disabled Veteran-Owned Small Business, we pride ourselves on delivering unparalleled discipline, efficiency, and professionalism to the realms of demo and deconstruction. By collaborating closely with clients, we grasp the intricate interplay between our tasks and project advancement, ensuring our work sets the stage for the project's overall success. Our mission is committed to harmoniously balancing environmental considerations with project objectives, epitomizing our dedication to quality and sustainability. Tweetable Moments: 2:11 - “Being an entrepreneur was in me and I did all the things other than entrepreneurship. I work for the big companies. I worked for small companies, I joined the military, I deployed. And finally when I looked at myself in the mirror, I said, what? Was I put on this earth to be in entrepreneurs? That's that's where I'm at and that's where I really lean in. That's the life I live and the life I love.” 8:57 - “We know that thoughts are rooted in a language. When you change the words and the language you use within your thoughts, you change your perception. When you change your perception, you change your actions. Your actions become habits.” 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 Green Up Solutions website at https://www.greenupsolutions.org/ Check out Green Up Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/gree

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Co-Founder of Wild Coffee Marketing, Amy Anderson. Amy's passion for marketing is deeply rooted in her experience as a client-side marketer. This unique perspective allows her to understand the needs of her clients, who range from franchises and quick-service restaurants to B2B companies. At Wild Coffee Marketing, they focus on understanding the target audience and their needs, which is a crucial aspect of marketing. Their unique positioning allows them to provide strategy, leadership, and execution for their clients. Amy explained the benefits of hiring a fractional VP of marketing or CMO, especially for companies that lack a senior marketing person in-house. This approach offers cost-effectiveness and flexibility, providing both strategy and execution. Amy pointed out that the pandemic stripped away the salesy-ness and gimmicks, allowing businesses to focus on meeting the needs of their customers. She advised companies to treat clients like adults and build collaborative relationships rather than transactional ones. This involves clearly explaining how to solve customers' pain points and avoiding jargon or over-selling. Amy also shared that Wild Coffee Marketing is undergoing a rebranding process, focusing on helping midsize companies with their marketing strategies on a fractional basis. She invited listeners to visit their website to find insights and articles on their blog, "Deja Brew." They can also schedule a consultation with Amy to discuss their overall strategy. Key Points from the Episode: Amy's background and experience as a client-side marketer Types of clients Wild Coffee Marketing works with (franchises, quick-service restaurants, B2B companies) Importance of understanding target audience and their needs in marketing Unique positioning of Wild Coffee Marketing (providing strategy, leadership, and execution) Benefits of hiring a fractional VP of marketing or CMO Trends in B2B marketing (email marketing, providing value through webinars, advisory content, whitepapers) Shift in sales and marketing strategies after COVID-19 pandemic Importance of treating clients like adults and building collaborative relationships About Amy Anderson: Amy Anderson is a highly regarded industry leader, boasting over 25 years of experience across renowned brands like Calvin Klein, Seventeen, and The New York Times Digital. She co-founded Wild Coffee Marketing, focusing on revitalizing businesses through diverse disciplines and custom-tailored teams. With a rich background, Amy excels as a creative marketing professional, showcasing her prowess in brand strategy, crafting and advancing advertising, marketing, and public relations campaigns, and spearheading new product development and market introductions. Her exceptional talent lies in advising business proprietors and management cohorts and steering cross-functional teams toward strategic and revenue triumphs. About Wild Coffee Marketing: Wild Coffee Marketing is a vibrant marketing consulting firm that fosters business growth. Comprising a team of adept thinkers and proactive implementers, the firm is an expert at orchestrating every facet of the marketing journey, from the conception of strategic blueprints to their resolute execution. This modus operandi effectively positions Wild Coffee Marketing as an indispensable extension of their client's teams. The firm's comprehensive methodology encompasses a holistic evaluation of internal and external factors, pinpointing promising avenues for growth, scrutinizing the competitive landscape, and defining the distinctive disruptions their clients introduce to their sectors. Armed with these insights, they artfully craft executable strategies and innovative approaches, which are meticulously managed through their implementation phase. Following an initial audit, their in-depth competitive analysis and customer insights guide the formulation of strategies that ensure a harmonized brand experience across diverse touchpoints. Their tactical marketing plans remain responsive to swift market changes. These encompass invaluable components such as brand guidelines, strategic positioning, technology recommendations, lead generation initiatives, and imaginative creative executions. With each member of the Wild Coffee team boasting extensive marketing acumen and specialized functional knowledge, the firm serves as fuel for businesses, driving them towards innovation, strategic growth, and success. Tweetable Moments: 02:13 - “I think one of the biggest lessons for me as an entrepreneur was you don't end up really doing all the things that you're great at. You end up in finance and accounting, you end up in HR. You have to learn how to be a really good business leader really quick. You have to learn about scalability, intellectual property, all of the things that I really didn't anticipate but has been the most rewarding work of my life.” 8:36 - “I

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder of Creative Director of Digital Trailblazer, Leah Getts. Leah Rae Getts co-founded Digital Trailblazer, a company dedicated to helping impact-driven entrepreneurs scale their businesses, such as consultants, course creators, and coaches. Their mission is to help these entrepreneurs connect with the right people and implement effective automation and systems to positively impact a larger scale. Leah shared her insights on the concept of sales and marketing funnels. She noted that the traditional one-directional funnel, where prospects are pushed toward a sale, is less effective now. Instead, she suggests considering the funnel an entire ecosystem, where prospects are nurtured and engaged across multiple platforms and touchpoints. This approach involves driving traffic, generating leads, and guiding prospects through various funnels simultaneously, such as email sequences, text message sequences, and Facebook groups. By creating a holistic ecosystem, prospects are exposed to the brand in multiple ways, which nurtures them and builds trust. Regarding content creation, Leah suggests starting with one thing and gradually adding more as you get comfortable. She emphasizes the importance of having ads running and a Facebook group set up, which can be managed by virtual assistants (VAs). The VAs can handle tasks like booking sales calls and welcoming people to the group, allowing you to focus on engaging with your audience. Leah suggests that short-form vertical videos can be done in just a couple of hours a week, and the key is to batch and schedule content. By leveraging automation and delegating mundane tasks to the team, you can spend around 25 hours a week on content creation and engagement while the rest is handled. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Digital Trailblazer's work with impact-driven entrepreneurs Discussion on the evolution of sales and marketing funnels Shift towards a holistic ecosystem approach in funnels Importance of nurturing and engaging prospects across multiple platforms Addressing the concern of complexity in creating content Gradual approach to content creation and leveraging virtual assistants Process of client engagement and lead generation Problem-oriented approach rather than sales-focused About Leah Rae Getts: Leah Rae Getts and her husband, Todd, are the visionary minds behind DigitalTrailblazer.com. The power couple embarked on their online business journey in 2016 with determination but no prior business experience. Leah, a former nurse, and Todd, a band teacher, defied the odds by establishing a thriving online enterprise. By 2017, they had bid farewell to traditional jobs to fully immerse themselves in their digital venture and spend more time with their children. Pioneers in the art of helping experts, coaches, consultants, and entrepreneurs, Leah and Todd specialize in crafting, launching, and scaling lucrative online courses and coaching programs. Their initial online course in 2018 became a monumental success, achieving multiple six-figure monthly sales within six months. Their prowess as award-winning marketers and captivating speakers has garnered recognition from esteemed industry bodies. They have graced stages, podcasts, interviews, and articles, showcasing their expertise in crafting compelling offers, designing effective funnels, and employing organic and paid traffic strategies. Beyond business, Leah and Todd are driven by faith and family values, tirelessly striving to amplify the impact of those with positive aspirations on a global scale. With their multifaceted skills encompassing content creation, lead generation, copywriting, sales team management, and more, Leah's vibrant presence and engaging storytelling make her an exciting addition to any audience. About Digital Trailblazer: Digital Trailblazer is your go-to resource for mastering contemporary social media marketing strategies and achieving remarkable success with your online, home, or small business. Helmed by Todd and Leah Rae Getts, experts in internet marketing, lead generation, and traffic optimization, this platform equips you with a comprehensive toolkit. Digital Trailblazer covers every aspect, from branding precision and constructing sales funnels to social media business promotion, organic and paid traffic techniques, and effective prospect conversion. Whether you seek enhanced revenue or aspire to streamline your online business operations, their guidance empowers you to prioritize income-generating tasks and assume the role of an actual business CEO. Moreover, the platform extends specialized training for network marketing novices, eliminating the perplexity of commencing an online venture. With a focus on concise, actionable steps, Todd and Leah simplify the process, fast-tracking your journey toward profitability. Digital Trailblazer's training is an invaluable resource for newcomers see

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Coach, Entrepreneur CEO and Founder of TRG International, Rick Yvanovich. Rick's core belief is that we all have the potential to be architects of change in this era of constant transformation. He emphasizes actively shaping a path forward, drawing from his transformation journey and continuous learning. Rick believes we are in a new era, driven by trends such as generative AI. While some may find AI intimidating or confusing, Rick sees it as a tool that underscores the importance of human qualities and skills. He believes that the unique qualities of humans make us extraordinary and different. AI is a certainty that touches nearly everything, and we need leaders who can harness these tools to innovate and change lives. Rick adds that leaders must be decisive, embrace change, and be employee role models. Drawing from his background as an accountant and his transition into coaching and mentoring, Rick emphasizes the need for leaders to guide their teams through the changing landscape. Key Points from the Episode: Rick's belief in the potential for individuals to be architects of change in the current era Discussion on the concept of the new renaissance and the role of generative AI Emphasis on the importance of human qualities and skills in relation to AI AI as an inevitability and its impact on leadership and innovation Overview of TRG International and their focus on accounting and performance management systems Mention of TRG International's work with various industries, particularly hotels Introduction of TRG International's offshore development center and software engineering services Explanation of TRG International's assessment services, including psychometrics and 360 surveys About Rick Yvanovich: Rick Yvanovich is a seasoned entrepreneur and finance professional with over 40 years of experience in various industries across the UK, China, Singapore, Switzerland, and Vietnam. As a fellow of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants (CIMA) and CPA Australia, he holds prestigious qualifications, including a Chartered Global Management Accountant (CGMA) and an MSc in Strategic Business Management from Manchester Metropolitan University. Rick has significantly impacted Vietnam, where he's been based since 1990, contributing to the business community in various roles. He serves as Treasurer and Board Member of BritCham Vietnam, Vice-Chair of the AMCHAM HCMC ICT Group, and Chairman of the Industry Advisory Committee at RMIT Vietnam. He's also actively involved as a CIMA assessor and co-founder of the International Project Management Association of Vietnam, with a history of founding and investing in multiple startups. Rick is known for his Talent, Accounting, ICT, Digital Transformation, Project Management, and international trade and investment expertise. He's a frequent speaker on these topics and has a notable coaching journey, including Emotional Intelligence and OKR Champion certifications. Rick's extensive experience and contributions make him a respected figure in Vietnam's business landscape. About TRG International: TRG International is a prominent global professional services company that delivers top-tier technical solutions. With a focus on technical excellence, TRG stands out in the ever-evolving and demanding market by providing IT solutions that seamlessly operate in the background, allowing their clients to concentrate on their core business activities. As a trusted consultant and partner, TRG possesses an in-depth understanding of their clients' business challenges, ensuring the delivery of tailor-made solutions. Their vision is to continually guide businesses toward greatness, while their mission is to be the preferred partner for delivering effective and reliable systems. TRG International's commitment to technical expertise and customer-centric approach has solidified its reputation as a go-to provider for businesses seeking seamless IT solutions to support and enhance their operations. Tweetable Moments: 03:14 - "Every day our actions, big or small, shape our future." 3:14 - “I want everyone listening to remember this: you are your own brand and every single decision you make is part of the unique story that you are crafting for yourself.” 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 TRG International website at https://www.trginternational.com/ Check out TRG International on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/trg-international/ Check out TRG International on Twitter at https://twitter.com/TRG_INTL Check out TRG International on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TRGInternational/ Check out Rick Yvanovich on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickyvanovich/ Check out Rick Yvanovich on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RickYvanovich Don’t forget to subscribe to T

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Coach & Author of The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter, Danielle Perlin-Good. Danielle shed light on the different options available for producing a book. She explained that someone with abundant time and energy can learn to write a book by taking craft classes or going on writing retreats. However, hiring a ghostwriter is a viable option for those who are time-poor but have the financial resources. This saves time and energy and ensures a professional touch to the writing. Danielle also introduced two in-between options. The first is a day-intensive experience where the writer and ghostwriter meet for hours to flesh out the book's framework and create an outline. The second option is coaching, where the writer is responsible for the writing, but the ghostwriter coaches them to achieve their goals. She also mentioned her new writing accountability group, where writers meet weekly for 12 weeks to receive accountability and support in achieving their writing goals. Danielle also explained the steps involved in book publishing after a manuscript is completed. These steps include cover design, formatting, proofreading, and marketing. She emphasized the importance of having clear goals for the book, such as leaving a family legacy, increasing speaking engagements, or establishing credibility and authority for a coaching practice or business. Key Points from the Episode: Types of books worked on by Danielle Perlin-Good Approach to ghostwriting nonfiction books Options for producing a book: self-writing, hiring a ghostwriter, day intensive, coaching Introduction of Danielle's writing accountability group Recommendations for hiring a ghostwriter: meeting for synergy and connection, importance of trust Steps in the book publishing process after manuscript completion Importance of clear goals for the book About Danielle Perlin-Good: Danielle Perlin-Good is an accomplished ghostwriter and bestselling author known for her work in empowering company founders to share their stories and wisdom through nonfiction content. With over two decades of experience, she has contributed to over twenty books spanning various genres, including memoirs, business, and personal growth. Danielle also offers C-suite executives coaching, editing, and consulting services, ensuring their messaging is impactful and authentic. Beginning her career with the Chicago Tribune Company, Danielle has since excelled in corporate digital marketing roles and made notable contributions to Albert Whitman & Co., a renowned children's publishing house. She distinguishes herself by integrating mindset techniques, exceptional editing, and expert interviewing skills into her work. She uses quantum healing modalities to guide her clients' transformative journeys toward crafting publishable and cherished books. In her free time, Danielle enjoys various activities such as swimming, yoga, spinning, cycling, and boxing, all while cherishing moments spent with her husband and two children in the great outdoors. About The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter: The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter, represented by Danielle Perlin-Good, specializes in helping individuals and company founders share their unique stories, wisdom, and expertise through nonfiction writing. This niche form of ghostwriting goes beyond mere content creation; it seeks to capture the essence of the author's soul and vision, making it deeply personal and authentic. The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter's core mission is to empower clients to amplify their lasting legacies by unleashing the power of their words. This involves writing and providing book and story coaching, editing, and consulting services. They work closely with C-suite executives and authors from various fields to ensure their messages are concise, beautiful and genuinely aligned with their values and visions. Utilizing a blend of mindset techniques, exceptional editing skills, and adept interviewing abilities, The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter ensures that each client's transformative journey culminates in a beautifully crafted and publishable book that holds profound meaning for both the author and their readers. This unique approach to ghostwriting adds depth and authenticity to the written word, fostering a meaningful connection between the author and their audience. 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 Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter at https://thesoulalignedghostwriter.com/ Check out The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/soul-aligned-ghostwriter/ Check out The Soul-Aligned Ghostwriter on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/groups/soulalignedghostwriting Check out Danielle Perlin-Good on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellebperlingood/ Check out Danielle Perlin-Good on Twitter at https://twitter.com/daniellebpg

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Ecommerce Business Consultant & Coach of Prime Seller Solutions, Mike Bryan. Mike discussed the specific challenges that e-commerce sellers face. Platforms like Amazon have become more complex, requiring sellers to navigate various hurdles and meet higher standards. Competition from other platforms like Walmart and eBay has also increased, making it crucial for sellers to focus on building their brand and offering high-quality products. Mike emphasized the importance of staying in supply and continuously developing new products to stay ahead of the competition. When asked about their ideal clients, Mike mentioned that Prime Seller Solutions typically works with e-commerce sellers who have been in business for at least a year and have generated sales. They focus on finding the right fit for each individual and helping them align with their values. They assist sellers in identifying tasks that can be trimmed, transferred, or treasured, allowing them to focus on advancing their business. Mike emphasized the importance of time management and regularly auditing how time is spent to optimize productivity. Mike explained that they start by asking where the clients want to be. Through the time audit process, they often discover that clients spend more hours than necessary on their business. They aim to help clients reduce their workload and have more energy for personal life, such as spending time with family. Mike emphasized that the journey with each client is unique, and they strive to deliver a personalized experience based on individual goals and motivations. Key Points from the Episode: Prime Seller Solutions helps ecommerce business owners save time and energy and create the business they envisioned Challenges faced by ecommerce sellers, including complex platforms and increased competition Importance of building a brand and offering high-quality products Negative consequences of not playing by the rules on platforms like Amazon Importance of having a system in place for smooth and efficient business operations Ideal clients for Prime Seller Solutions are ecommerce sellers who have been in business for at least a year and have generated sales Focus on time management and optimizing productivity through time audits Vision for clients is to reduce workload and have more energy for personal life About Mike Bryan: Mike Bryan is a seasoned entrepreneur with a remarkable journey in e-commerce. Over six years ago, he embarked on his entrepreneurial path, venturing into selling his products on Amazon while managing a manufacturing operations team comprising more than 20 members. Today, Mike has achieved impressive success, launching two brands that generate over $1 million in annual revenue. Leveraging his wealth of experience, Mike founded Prime Seller Solutions, where he serves as an e-commerce business Consultant and Coach, specializing in operations for e-commerce sellers. He assists clients in reclaiming time, focusing on their areas of expertise, boosting profits, and achieving greater freedom in their personal and professional lives. Mike's impact is evident in the testimonials of satisfied clients who credit him with propelling their businesses to success. His professional and strategic approach has empowered businesses to achieve substantial growth and operational efficiency, making him a respected figure in the e-commerce consultancy. About Prime Seller Solutions: Prime Seller Solutions is a comprehensive Amazon seller agency, offering businesses a range of essential services to optimize their performance on the e-commerce giant, Amazon. Their expertise encompasses sales growth, listing management, and ad management, making them a valuable partner for businesses seeking success in the competitive online marketplace. With Prime Seller Solutions, clients benefit from strategic guidance and support to boost their sales and revenue on Amazon. They excel at optimizing product listings, ensuring they are not only visible but also appealing to potential customers. Moreover, their adept ad management services help clients effectively reach their target audience, maximizing their return on investment. In a world where Amazon dominates e-commerce, Prime Seller Solutions stands out as a reliable partner that can help businesses navigate the complexities of the platform, ultimately driving growth and success. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Prime Seller Solutions website at http://www.primesellersolutions.com/ Check out Mike Bryan on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/themichaelebryan/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & Author, Dr. Alok Trivedi. Dr. Rewire discovered a fascinating connection between the brain and healing during his practice. This revelation led him to focus on helping people with money and entrepreneurship. He emphasized that entrepreneurs often face high-stress levels, which can cause our brains and bodies to break down. To combat this, Dr. Rewire has developed neurocognitive pathways and tools to help entrepreneurs rewire their brains and improve their decision-making abilities. He shared a success story of a client who experienced a significant increase in income after working with him, demonstrating the effectiveness of his methods. Dr. Rewire acknowledges that skepticism toward his methods is expected. However, he explains that mental health is not solely a mental issue. It also involves physical factors such as diet, exercise, and hormones. To address these complexities, he has created 98 tools to help people rewire their brains and overcome past traumas. He also discussed the detrimental impact of unhealthy thinking on our ability to create wealth. He gave an example of a client who feared making more money due to past financial losses. He explained that our brains are wired for survival rather than abundance, which can hinder our ability to grow financially. Dr. Trivedi explained that people in a desperate situations are motivated to hustle and work hard to improve their circumstances. However, once they achieve financial independence, their motivation decreases because they no longer have the same need and desire to succeed. Dr. Trivedi believes that motivation is fleeting and what is needed is inspiration. A business built on inspiration does not rely on external motivation because the desire to serve clients at a higher level is intrinsic. Key Points from the Episode: Dr. Alok Trivedi's expertise in helping entrepreneurs rewire their brains around income, money, wealth, and business The connection between the brain and healing, leading Dr. Rewire to focus on helping people with money and entrepreneurship Neurocognitive pathways and tools developed by Dr. Rewire to help entrepreneurs rewire their brains and improve decision-making abilities Success story of a client who experienced increased income after working with Dr. Rewire Addressing skepticism towards Dr. Rewire's methods and the importance of considering physical factors in mental health Impact of unhealthy thinking on wealth creation and overcoming past traumas Difference between motivation and inspiration in business, and the need for intrinsic inspiration rather than fleeting motivation Balancing focus and urgency with listening to the body's feedback to avoid chronic fatigue and adrenal issues Dr. Trivedi's involvement in a documentary exploring his work and the process of rewiring oneself as an entrepreneur About Dr. Alok Trivedi: Dr. Alok Trivedi, known as "Dr. Rewire," is a renowned media figure and an authority on health and human behavior. With over 25 years of expertise in brain research, he has pioneered a scientific approach to achieving enhanced success and fulfillment. Dr. Alok assists sales and leadership teams, entrepreneurs, and top-tier athletes in uncovering underlying factors and rewiring their brains for profound transformations in business, well-being, finances, and relationships. His innovative behavior modification system has proven instrumental for prominent enterprises such as Mobiroo International, Primerica, Draftmore International, and UPS Store. As the author of "Chasing Success: Lessons in Aligned Performance," Dr. Alok's insights have garnered attention from major media outlets, including CBS, NBC, Fox News, and Global News. Tweetable Moments: 09:27 - "Motivation is fleeting and what you need is inspiration." 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 Dr. Rewire at https://drrewire.com/ Check out Intelogos on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/draloktrivedi/ Check out Dr. Rewire on Twitter at https://twitter.com/drrewire?s=21&t=MjOFJDI9SElUXslVevJWKg Check out Dr. Rewire on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dr.rewire Check out Dr. Alok Trivedi on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/draloktrivedi/ Check out Dr. Alok Trivedi on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/DrAlokTrivedi/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of Intelogos, Vasily Malyshev. Vasily Malyshev delved into several critical topics related to the innovative platform known as "Intelogos." He founded this platform as CEO and leads harnesses the power of analytics and artificial intelligence to revolutionize employee well-being, recognition, and performance management. It not only aids employees in avoiding burnout and receiving awards for their work but also offers valuable insights to employers, enhancing team performance and efficiency, particularly in remote work environments. Vasily highlighted the shortcomings of traditional performance management methods, such as subjective employee reviews and daily questions, citing their tendency to produce inaccurate and biased data. He emphasized the critical need for fair and objective feedback in fostering employee satisfaction and retention. He stressed the significance of providing employees with clear metrics for raises and bonuses, underscoring the potential consequences of failing to do so, which can lead to job dissatisfaction and increased turnover rates. Vasily also explained how Intelogos' AI-driven platform can anticipate issues and opportunities by analyzing extensive datasets and recognizing patterns of behavior that lead to either positive or negative outcomes. This capability enables users to proactively identify risks and opportunities and receive actionable suggestions based on these patterns. While Vasily believed that Intelligence could benefit a wide range of companies, he identified particular suitability for those engaged in computer-based work, larger organizations struggling with team management, and companies with remote work arrangements. Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of Intelogos as an employee well-being, recognition, and performance management platform Use of analytics and AI to help employees avoid burnout and get recognized for their work Assistance provided to employers in understanding team performance and improving efficiency Importance of intelligent tools for assessing and monitoring employee performance, especially for remote teams Discussion on current methods of performance management and their limitations Importance of fair and objective feedback for retaining valuable employees Desire for objective feedback to help employees grow and achieve personal goals Explanation of how Intelogos platform anticipates problems and seizes opportunities through data analysis and AI Target audience of Intelogos, including computer-based companies, larger companies with team management challenges, and companies with remote work Benefits of Intelogos for junior employees in measuring performance and progress objectively About Vasily Malyshev: Vasily Malyshev is a dynamic entrepreneur with a notable track record over the past decade. He has founded and managed three successful companies, showcasing his business acumen and leadership skills. His entrepreneurial journey includes merging his first venture into the second and orchestrating the successful acquisition of his second company. Currently, Vasily is spearheading his latest venture, Intelogos. Alongside his business accomplishments, he has pursued a dual education in law, completing studies at two law schools. Vasily's dedication to professional growth is also reflected in his personal life, having entered into marriage. This website serves as an informative platform, offering insights into his achievements and aspirations, aimed at engaging potential partners, colleagues, and investors for future endeavors. About Intelogos: Intelogos is a groundbreaking people analytics and AI performance management platform headquartered in New York and operating with a fully remote structure. The company is revolutionizing its perspective on human resources by leveraging advanced analytics and artificial intelligence. By harnessing these technologies, Intelogos offers innovative solutions that enhance how organizations view and manage their workforce. The platform empowers businesses to gain deeper insights into employee performance and engagement, facilitating data-driven decisions for optimal results. With its New York roots and remote operations, Intelogos is at the forefront of shaping the future of work and transforming the conventional approach to human resource management. Tweetable Moments: 15:01 - "Our platform will allow those junior employees who just came to the company if they work just as well as a middle or senior, our platform will suggest that they should get a raise, they should get a bonus because they are doing at least as good as everybody else and therefore they should be compensated fairly 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 Intelogos website at https://www.intelogos.com/ Check out I

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Brand Experience Expert, Katie Mares. Katie Mares is a force to be reckoned with. Her impact is centered on creating standout moments for customers and employees at her dealership and through her work at Perma Shield USA. Her mission is to help male-dominated spaces expand their reach to capture the world's most influential female consumers. Katie shared some eye-opening statistics: 65% of new car purchasers are women, and women make 85% of the decision-making in coupled relationships. Despite these figures, there's an apparent disconnect between the gender of the consumers and the gender of those designing and delivering the buying experience. Men still dominate the upper management and sales roles in the industry. Katie explained an apparent disparity in how men and women are treated when they walk into a dealership. She shared the results of her customer survey, where 87% of women said they would only go to a dealership with their husbands. Katie shed light on the importance of understanding and catering to the needs of female consumers in the automotive industry. There's a need for a shift in the industry that acknowledges and values women's influence and buying power. As Katie Mares continues her mission, we want to see more inclusive and tailored experiences for all consumers in the automotive industry. Key Points from the Episode: Katie Mares' impact and mission in creating standout moments for customers and employees Disconnect between the gender of consumers and those designing and delivering the buying experience Statistics on women's influence in car purchasing decisions Disparity in how men and women are treated at dealerships Results of Katie's customer survey on women's dealership experiences Importance of tailoring the buying experience to the individual customer Women's larger limbic brain and emotional intelligence Women's ability to communicate with creativity and logic Men's tendency to communicate only with logic and its impact on relationship-building About Katie Mares: Katie Mares is a prominent brand experience expert with a deep understanding of organizations' challenges in crafting sustainable and impactful customer experience (CX) programs tailored for female consumers. With a background as Chief Inspiration Officer, she brings extensive expertise in building company infrastructure and designing CX initiatives. Katie is a vocal advocate for positive change within partner organizations, leveraging her master's degree in Adult Training and Development from Schulich School of Business and her certification as a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP). A globally sought-after speaker, she has captivated audiences worldwide, reshaping perspectives on female consumers, customer experience, and leadership. Katie has collaborated with renowned brands like Honda, Celebrity Cruises, and Canada Post. Residing in Toronto with her three children, Katie finds balance through travel, consulting, speaking engagements, and personal pursuits like yoga, shoe shopping, and cherished movie nights with her kids. Tweetable Moments: 04:21- "The reason I break it down into gender and the reason it's so important is because the men of the industry are not even recognizing the female when coming in with a man, so like right off the bat we have a gender equality issue when it comes to the female consumer." 12:48 - "We communicate with creativity and logic which means we can listen to all the details and we can also sift through them logically and then soften it up by creating that relationship and using that sort of creative language at the same time." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Katie Mares website at https://katiemares.com/ Check out Katie Mares Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/katie-mares-consulting/ Check out Katie Mares on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/katie-mares-ctdp-mcatd-cpsa Check out Katie Mares on Twitter at https://twitter.com/hellokatiemares Check out Katie Mares on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/katiemares/ Check out Katie Mares on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/katie.mares.16 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the President of FlexScreen, Joe Altieri. Joe highlights that FlexScreen is the market's first and only flexible window screen. Unlike traditional aluminum screens that are difficult to handle and easily damaged, Flex Screen is easy to install and incredibly durable. It can even withstand being run over by a car! The idea for FlexScreen started as a hobby in Joe's garage about ten to twelve years ago. Being in the window and door industry, Joe saw a need for a better solution and took it upon himself to create it. Joe discussed how FlexScreen has scaled their business and protected their intellectual property. They purchased a digital marketing company to help spread the word about their product and have changed their business model to rely on licensing their technology to window manufacturers. This allows them to scale without the pain and capital investment of opening new manufacturing locations. Joe emphasized the importance of having the right attorney to protect their patents and ensure non-compete agreements are in place with licensees. He acknowledges the concern of cheap knockoffs and mentions the need to protect their intellectual property actively, even if it means going to court. Joe also talked about the importance of educating window manufacturers on how to sell their products as a differentiator in the market. Key Points from the Episode: Description of FlexScreen as a flexible window screen that is easy to install and durable Comparison of FlexScreen to traditional aluminum screens Explanation of why aluminum screens are still used despite their drawbacks Origin of the idea for FlexScreen and its development in Joe's garage Discussion of how FlexScreen has scaled their business and protected their intellectual property Importance of having the right attorney to protect patents and ensure non-compete agreements Need to actively protect intellectual property, even through legal action if necessary Importance of educating window manufacturers on selling FlexScreen as a differentiator Encouragement for entrepreneurs to seek education and support in entrepreneurship About Joe Altieri: Joe Altieri's journey began as an independent window industry salesman, where he notably excelled in selling window screens. His ability to persuade manufacturers to outsource screens led to annual sales exceeding three million dollars. Frustrated by the flaws in traditional window screens, Joe took on the challenge of innovating the century-old technology. His breakthrough came with a flexible frame design using spring steel, solving the issue of fragile aluminum frames. He further improved the product by bonding mesh with PVC for durability. Joe was invited to present his flexible window screen to the Sharks, and he appeared in Season 11, Episode 10 to a national television audience of 30+ million. About FlexScreen: Founded by Inventor & CEO Joe Altieri in 2013, FlexScreen introduced the pioneering concept of the "world's first flexible window screen." Developed to address long-standing issues with traditional aluminum screens, FlexScreen revolutionized the window industry. After obtaining multiple patents, the product entered the market, initially targeting window manufacturers and dealers. However, due to industry hesitance, Joe shifted his focus and engaged in direct consumer sales through a strategic digital marketing campaign. The brand's rapid growth and innovative design captured the interest of ABC's Shark Tank, further propelling its recognition. FlexScreen's unique approach and adaptability represent a significant advancement in window screen technology, marking a transformative milestone in a previously stagnant market. Tweetable Moments: 21:00 - "We believe that every person has a message that can positively impact 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 FlexScreen website at https://curiositybased.com/ Check out FlexScreen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexscreenllc/ Check out FlexScreen on Twitter at https://twitter.com/flexscreenllc Check out FlexScreen on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/flexscreen Check out FlexScreen on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/flexscreen/ Check out FlexScreen on TikTok at https://tiktok.com/@flexscreen Check out Joe Altieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaltieri/ Check out Joe Altieri on Twitter at https://twitter.com/joealtieri Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the po

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the President of Command Your Brand, Jeremy Slate. Jeremy passionately emphasizes the need for a strategic mindset and a focus on impact rather than becoming fixated on vanity metrics when contemplating a role as a podcast guest. Jeremy maintains that podcasting opens doors for networking and paves the way for fruitful collaborations and business partnerships. By inviting guests to participate in podcasts, individuals can seize the opportunity to showcase their expertise and craft content that holds substantial value and is adaptable to multiple platforms. He emphasizes that adopting a proactive and practical approach is imperative to extract the maximum benefits from podcast appearances. Transforming podcast episodes into diverse content formats, such as blog posts, proves invaluable, especially in light of challenges presented by social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, which often discourage users from straying outside their domains. Jeremy Ryan Slate also delves into the intricacies of the customer journey and user experience for prospective podcast guests. He underscores the importance of delivering value to the audience and establishing oneself as a bona fide expert during interviews. Offering free content and courses is a powerful strategy to construct a favorable reputation and amplify visibility. Jeremy urges guests to tailor their offerings to align with the audience's needs and desires, thereby determining the value they bring to the table. Key Points from the Episode: Benefits of being a guest on podcasts Power of podcasting as a marketing and networking tool Importance of mindset and impact in podcasting Networking opportunities in podcasting Showcasing expertise and creating valuable content as a guest Repurposing podcast episodes into other forms of content Overcoming challenges of sharing content on social media platforms Providing value and establishing authority as a podcast guest Focusing on the needs and desires of the audience About Jeremy Slate: Jeremy Ryan Slate is the dynamic host of the Create Your Own Life Podcast, dedicated to dissecting the strategies of top achievers worldwide. A graduate in literature from Oxford University, Slate also possesses a Master’s in Early Roman Empire Propaganda from Seton Hall University. His podcast garnered significant recognition, hailed as the #1 Podcast to Listen To by INC Magazine in 2019 and landed him a spot on Podcast Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 list in 2022. Alongside his wife Brielle, he co-founded Command Your Brand Media, a pioneering new media PR agency empowering entrepreneurs to convey their message through podcast guest appearances. Based in Stillwater, NJ, Slate's diverse pursuits include raising chickens and his past as a competitive powerlifter. About Command Your Brand: Command Your Brand is a trailblazing force in the evolving landscape of New Media, recognizing podcast as a prime avenue for optimal client exposure. Founded in 2016, the organization's initial vision, shaped by the audio equivalent of blogs, has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum, including Rumble, YouTube, and other consumed media forms. Focusing on clients with potent and often controversial messages that challenge prevailing norms and reshape perspectives, Command Your Brand operates within a context where podcasts embody the last stronghold of extended, unfiltered expression. In an era where genuine comprehension hinges on thorough discourse, rather than brief soundbites, podcasts offer unfettered, lengthy discussions that foster proper understanding and intellectual growth. Rejecting the notion of third-party curation, Command Your Brand empowers the public to engage with and sift through these ideas, cultivating a space where individuals independently assess and determine the resonance of the concepts presented. 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 Command Your Brand Media website at https://uniform.dev/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniformdev/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CYBMedia Check out Command Your Brand Media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/commandyourbrand/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/commandyourbrand/ Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-ryan-slate-bb7b284a/ Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jeremyryanslate/ Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JeremyRyanSlate Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Jeremyryanslate/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Uniform, Darren Guarnaccia. Darren pointed out that many companies had to adapt quickly to stay connected with their customers in a digital world. However, he also acknowledged that there is still room for improvement. Companies are exploring new technologies and innovations to enhance their digital presence and customer experience. Darren shared how Uniform is revolutionizing how teams collaborate to create compelling digital experiences. Uniform is more than just a platform; it's a tool that allows digital teams to blend content, data, and technology seamlessly. The goal is to overcome common challenges such as inefficient communication, waiting for developers, and general frustration. One of the unique aspects of Uniform is its "composable" nature. Darren likened it to Lego bricks, where users can assemble and reassemble different components to create a customized solution that meets their needs. This modularity allows for flexibility and adaptability, enabling users to easily plug in and remove other elements to test and learn what works best. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of collaboration and building customer experiences online Impact of COVID-19 on remote work and digital customer experiences Challenges faced by teams without a collaborative platform like Uniform Uniform as a visual workspace for blending content, data, and technology Integration with existing tools and benefits for clients in various industries Concept of "composable" and its application in Uniform's platform Making the platform easy to use, navigate, and connect data and content sources Focus on enhancing collaboration and streamlining processes About Darren Guarnaccia: Darren Guarnaccia is the President of Uniform, a pioneering Digital Experience Composition Platform (DXCP) empowering developers and marketers to manage their digital experience stack. With a wealth of experience, he combines top-tier product marketing and management techniques to navigate business hurdles, distinguish products, and catalyze remarkable expansion. In his role, Darren takes charge of crucial aspects, including marketing, product strategy, and enablement at Uniform. His leadership steers the development of innovative solutions, fostering seamless collaboration between technical and creative teams. Under Darren's guidance, Uniform continues to push the boundaries of digital experience management, offering a comprehensive platform that streamlines control over the intricacies of crafting and delivering exceptional digital experiences. About Uniform: Uniform DXCP empowers contemporary enterprises to construct swift and adaptable digital experience platforms. By establishing a uniform visual layer for content coordination across all channels, Uniform empowers business users, including marketing and e-commerce teams, to swiftly construct and experiment with ideas sans developer assistance. This proficiency is facilitated by pre-built integrations that eliminate the necessity for custom code when connecting content sources like legacy DXPs, customer data platforms, and headless services. Consequently, projects are expedited with reduced costs, all while preserving long-term adaptability for innovation. Uniform further enhances high-performance digital experiences by directly dispatching content to the forefront of modern CDNs, even accommodating personalized content delivery. Through these capabilities, Uniform DXCP stands as a catalyst for streamlined, cost-effective, and agile digital experience creation. Tweetable Moments: 11:36 - "That idea of being composable and staying composable, staying flexible, staying modular is super important." 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 Uniform website at https://uniform.dev/ Check out Uniform on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniformdev/ Check out Uniform on Twitter at https://twitter.com/uniformdev Check out Darren Guarnaccia on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dguarnaccia/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the President & Co-Founder of ViralGains, Dan Levin. Dan Levin is not just the President and Co-founder of ViralGains but also a visionary who saw an opportunity during the social media revolution. As brands grappled with the reality of no longer controlling the conversation, Viral Gains emerged as a platform that could facilitate a two-way dialogue between brands and consumers. ViralGains is a zero-party data-gathering engine for enterprise brands. They help advertisers target specific individuals with their ads, not just within the walled gardens of platforms like Facebook and Google but also across the open web, which includes millions of other websites. ViralGains takes a unique approach to audience targeting. Instead of relying on data providers and tracking individuals' online behavior, they build highly relevant audiences using the open web through survey-based audience collection. They ask individuals about their interests and preferences, collecting zero-party data, which they voluntarily give. Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of what ViralGains does as a zero party data gathering engine for enterprise brands Discussion on how ViralGains helps advertisers target specific individuals across the open web Explanation of survey-based audience collection and the collection of zero party data Origins of ViralGains during the social media revolution and the incorporation of interactive surveys within ads Discussion on constant surveillance and data extraction in the digital age, leading to the rise of ad blockers Importance of being empathetic towards consumers as marketers and understanding consumer preferences Introduction to the concept of zero party data and its potential for marketers About Dan Levin: Dan Levin is the co-founder, President, and COO of ViralGains, a company he established with a vision to leverage the impactful storytelling capabilities of video to foster genuine connections between brands and their audiences. His inspiration for ViralGains stems from his profound recognition of video's potential in creating authentic and significant relationships. Before co-founding ViralGains, Dan held the role of VP of Operations & Strategy at Viral Media Solutions, a comprehensive marketing agency that specialized in advising and aiding SMBs and Fortune 500 companies in the realms of social media and digital strategy. Through his leadership and expertise, Levin has played a pivotal role in shaping ViralGains' mission and success within the dynamic landscape of digital marketing and storytelling. About ViralGains: ViralGains is a cutting-edge marketing platform headquartered in Boston's Innovation District. It empowers brands to cultivate both new and returning customers through innovative means. By harnessing the potential of zero-party data, interactive advertisements, surveys, and audience development technology, ViralGains facilitates the implementation of brand-defined strategies. The company's wide-reaching influence extends to major cities like New York, Chicago, Detroit, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Los Angeles, where it operates regional offices. ViralGains' distinctive approach revolves around utilizing interactive tools to unearth insights, comprehend customer behaviour, and foster lasting relationships, positioning it as a forward-thinking force within the dynamic landscape of modern marketing. Tweetable Moments: 03:27 - "Consumers controlled what was popular...brands were met with a big middle finger.” 12:19 - "I just like stuff that I'm actually really interested in. I'm just not going to click on and go through someone's funnel if you're a marketing agency. Sorry, I'm just no thanks." 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 ViralGains website at https://www.viralgains.com/ Check out ViralGains on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/viralgains/ Check out ViralGains on Twitter at https://twitter.com/viralgains Check out ViralGains on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ViralGains Check out Dan Levin on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/danlevin1/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Eyeful Media, Antonella Pisani. One of the key insights Antonella shared was the importance of balancing instant gratification with long-term strategies like SEO. She emphasized the need to focus on reducing the cost of acquisition and understanding the lifetime value of a customer. She also highlighted the significance of customer satisfaction and the use of net promoter score to gauge client happiness. Antonella advises business owners to invest in these fundamental aspects of their business to maintain a solid foundation. Regarding B2B growth, Antonella underscored the importance of content creation, thought leadership, and effective messaging. She stressed the need to stand out in saturated channels like email and to focus on empathizing with customers' problems and providing solutions. Antonella also shared her thoughts on leadership and management. She believes in adapting one's management style to different types of employees, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach. She also addressed the challenge of delivering negative feedback and the tendency for some managers to be too soft in their approach. Antonella believes constructive criticism is essential for personal and professional growth, and encourages employees to seek feedback from mentors or executive coaches. Key Points from the Episode: Assisting companies in scaling their presence and selling through marketplaces Working with private equity firms during due diligence process Importance of reducing cost of acquisition and balancing instant gratification with long-term strategies like SEO Understanding lifetime value and customer satisfaction, utilizing net promoter score Importance of content creation, thought leadership, and effective messaging in B2B growth Adapting management style to different types of employees Importance of constructive criticism and seeking feedback from mentors or executive coaches Maintaining professional boundaries and finding alternative outlets for venting within the workplace About Antonella Pisani: Antonella Pisani is the visionary founder and CEO of Eyeful Media, a cutting-edge digital marketing and consulting firm in Dallas. Launched in 2017, Eyeful Media has garnered remarkable success through organic referrals, securing a spot among the top 11% on the Inc. 5000 list for two consecutive years. With a staggering 1178% growth rate, the company stands out as one of America's fastest-growing private enterprises. Committed to both business excellence and community impact, Antonella leads by example. She directs 5% of Eyeful Media's profits to charitable causes, supporting organizations like Community Partners of Dallas, Dwell with Dignity, and The North Texas Food Bank. Antonella's involvement extends to advisory roles, including The North Texas Food Bank Advisory Council and the Dwell with Dignity Board of Directors. Emphasizing a progressive and balanced work culture, Eyeful Media's remote team spans 16 states and 23 cities, contributing expertise from diverse backgrounds. Antonella's 25-year experience in marketing and digital realms, including roles at Proflowers, Guitar Center, JCPenney, and Fossil, showcases her profound industry knowledge. An accomplished polyglot, Antonella's multilingualism and passion for travel enrich her leadership and personal pursuits, while her rescue pup, Riley, adds a touch of canine charm as the company's "Chief Security Officer." About Eyeful Media: Eyeful Media is a dynamic digital marketing and consulting firm specializing in enhancing the online revenue and digital presence of mid-sized companies. Garnering consecutive Inc. 5000 placements, the firm consistently ranks within the top 11% (2021, 2022) and secures recognition as Adweek's Fastest-Growing Agency (#13 overall, #5 West/Southwest, #6 digital, #5 woman-led, #5 minority-led). Distinguished by its client-centered approach, Eyeful Media exclusively recruits seasoned marketers, streamlining interactions by eliminating account managers. Services encompass SEM, Shopping, SEO, Paid Social, and Marketplace management, bolstered by Shopify Plus partnership. The firm's ethos revolves around practical growth strategies aligned with contemporary trends, championing data-driven decisions and media buying over fleeting trends. Comprising former in-house and agency experts, the team empowers clients seeking impactful marketing without building an extensive in-house team. Eyeful Media's work is dedicated to client growth, eschewing self-promotion for tangible results. Embracing diverse industries, approximately 60% of clients are B2C, and 40% are B2B, underscoring their adaptability and broad expertise. Tweetable Moments: 10:13 - "Go hire people smarter than you, as many as you can possibly find that join your team." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Ment

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Attorney & Founder of Motiva Business Law, Danya Shakfeh. Danya specializes in helping entrepreneurs stay out of court and focus on their businesses. She does this by ensuring they have proper legal documentation and contracts. Danya explained that many business owners end up in court because they didn't take simple steps to protect themselves from legal disputes. She emphasized the importance of having a proper operating agreement and contracts to avoid costly litigation. Danya also pointed out that legal exposure is not just a risk for larger or brick-and-mortar companies. Still, she can also affect smaller businesses, especially in industries like startups and intellectual property. Danya also shared insights on trends in the intersection between small businesses and law. She mentioned that while she offers online resources and a YouTube channel, she has also been organizing in-person events to cater to people tired of virtual meetings after the COVID-19 pandemic. Danya emphasized the importance of proper due diligence when buying a business. She advised potential buyers to involve an attorney early in the process. She also highlighted the significance of obtaining consent from third parties involved in the business transfer, such as landlords or franchisors. Key Points from the Episode: Common legal topics that business owners should be aware of Guidance on hiring an attorney Mergers and acquisitions in business Startups and legal compliance Importance of proper contracts and legal documentation Legal exposure for small businesses Danya's events on how to buy a business Due diligence when buying a business About Danya Shakfeh: Danya Shakfeh is a dedicated attorney specializing in helping entrepreneurs navigate the legal complexities of their businesses, allowing them to focus on what they do best. With over a decade of experience in business law, Danya has become an expert in her field, consistently delivering top-notch services to her clients. Danya's primary focus is on contract review and drafting. She excels at identifying potential legal pitfalls within contracts, ensuring her clients' interests are protected and their business transactions run smoothly. Her meticulous attention to detail has kept numerous entrepreneurs out of legal trouble, allowing them to confidently conduct their business operations. One of Danya's notable achievements is being recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers for nine consecutive years. This prestigious accolade is awarded to less than 2.5% of lawyers, underscoring her exceptional legal skills and dedication to her clients' success. What sets Danya apart is her commitment to understanding her clients on a deeper level. She doesn't just ask the routine legal questions; she delves into her clients' biggest fears and dreams. By gaining insight into their aspirations and concerns, she leverages her legal expertise to protect their interests and help them realize their entrepreneurial dreams. Danya is more than just a business lawyer; she's a trusted legal and business advisor. Her approach encompasses fear-crushing and dream realization, ensuring her clients receive comprehensive support and guidance throughout their entrepreneurial journey. With Danya by their side, entrepreneurs can confidently navigate the legal landscape, knowing they have a dedicated advocate committed to their success. About Motiva Business Law: Motiva Business Law is a versatile legal firm that employs various strategies to engage potential clients. They create valuable legal resources like "lead magnets," videos, publications, and systematic approaches to attract potential clients effectively. Motiva specializes in various legal areas, including contract law, employment-related matters, civil and business litigation, and business law. They have expertise in reviewing and drafting contracts across diverse industries such as technology, food, healthcare, and construction. Their legal services include litigating complaints, counter-claims, motions to dismiss, motions to strike, answers, replies, requests to admit, interrogatories, discovery requests, contracts, and demand letters. Motiva Business Law is committed to educating the community. They conduct public seminars tailored for new and established businesses, focusing on important topics such as business entity types in Illinois, general contract principles, and employment regulations. This commitment to education underscores their dedication to serving their clients and the local business community. Tweetable Moments: 12:43 - "For some business owners, it's not too much money, but for your average person, it could be someone's life savings." 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 Motiva Business Law website at https://motivalaw.com/ Che

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of The Business Growers, Laura Johns. Laura Johns is the driving force behind The Business Growers, a company that serves as a fractional CMO and implementation team for founder-led companies with 50 or fewer employees. The Business Growers is a godsend for companies that may not need or can't afford an entire marketing team. They provide both implementation and high-level strategy services, filling the gap in the market for affordable yet practical marketing solutions. Laura shared that companies often hire individuals with high expectations, expecting them to handle all aspects of marketing. This can be challenging and often leads to less-than-optimal results. The Business Growers works well with companies that have an in-house marketing person who serves as a liaison and project manager but lacks the skill set to execute marketing strategies fully. If this sounds like your company, then you might be ready for The Business Growers' services. Laura emphasized the importance of consistent branding and messaging. She suggests checking if all marketing materials, websites, business cards, and email signatures are consistent. This consistency is vital to creating a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience. Key Points from the Episode: The Business Growers is a fractional CMO and implementation team for founder-led companies Discussion on when a company might be ready to hire The Business Growers' services Branding, messaging, and social media strategies for increasing visibility and attracting leads Insights on thought leadership and authenticity on social media Origin of the name "The Business Growers" and the size of Laura's team The Business Growers works well with companies that have an in-house marketing person but lack the skill set to fully execute marketing strategies Importance of consistent branding and messaging across marketing materials Laura's journey from accidental entrepreneur to starting The Business Growers About Laura Johns: Laura Johns is the accomplished founder and CEO of The Business Growers, a prominent marketing firm specializing in serving B2B telecom, SaaS, IT, and cloud-services industries. With an impressive career spanning 18 years, Laura's expertise has been honed through managing marketing efforts for a diverse range of companies, from tech startups to global conglomerates, with nearly half of her career spent as a corporate marketing executive in the telecommunications sector. Her primary focus centres on developing highly effective marketing strategies tailored to technology companies, leading to tangible and significant successes. Today, The Business Growers boasts an extensive clientele of over 50 companies across 15 states. Laura's contributions to her home state of Mississippi have not gone unnoticed, as she has received accolades such as "Top 50 under 40" and "Top 50 Leading Women in Business." She is a distinguished member of the Leadership Mississippi program, an honour conferred by the Mississippi Economic Council. Laura's educational background is equally impressive, graduating cum laude from Mississippi College and earning a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alabama. She is also recognized as the co-founder and host of two notable podcasts: "The Home and The Hustle," catering to working moms and "The Know, Grow and Scale" videocast and podcast tailored for entrepreneurs. Laura Johns is undoubtedly a prominent figure in the marketing and business world. About The Business Growers: The Business Growers is a solution-oriented marketing firm that specializes in aiding tech companies facing marketing challenges, particularly those without a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Recognizing that numerous tech companies encounter difficulties in achieving effective marketing results due to the absence of an in-house CMO, The Business Growers fills this gap. This innovative company offers comprehensive services, including high-level marketing strategy development and implementation support. By doing so, they empower tech businesses to boost their revenue and expand their market presence without hiring a full-time marketing team. The Business Growers' expertise lies in tailoring marketing solutions to the unique needs of tech companies, enabling them to navigate the competitive landscape and achieve their growth objectives more efficiently and cost-effectively. With a focus on delivering tangible results, The Business Growers is a valuable partner for tech companies seeking to thrive in today's dynamic business environment. Tweetable Moments: 08:24 - "I think one of the things that we're seeing really good success with is people just being authentic and showing up on social media both as a brand and as an organizational leader." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Ep

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Executive Officer of Win BIG Media, Brandon McKee. In the current economic climate, many businesses are cutting back on their marketing spend, particularly in brand awareness campaigns. However, Brandon advises against this. Instead, he sees this as an opportunity for businesses to increase their market penetration and gain a competitive edge. By focusing on brand awareness and understanding customers' needs, businesses can increase their revenue and return on investment (ROI). Transparency and data-driven marketing are two key factors that Brandon emphasizes when working with agencies. He encourages clients to ask about the transparency of reporting and the key performance indicators (KPIs) that agencies track to ensure ROI. If an agency lacks transparency or cannot provide data to support their strategies, it's a red flag. Win Big Media's approach to marketing is media-agnostic. They analyze first-party customer data and their extensive third-party data to determine the most effective advertising channels for each client. This approach prioritizes efficiency and optimization, ensuring that ad campaigns are targeted correctly and unnecessary spending is avoided. Their data-driven approach, which is based on data collected from 230 million American consumers, proved to be a game-changer in this fast-paced environment. Recognizing the potential of this approach, Win Big Media decided to extend their services to corporations, helping them understand their customers' psychological drivers for better results. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Win Big Media's data-driven approach to marketing Origins of Win Big Media in political marketing and expansion into corporate marketing Types of clients Win Big Media works with, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies Conducting customer insights reports using extensive data before running advertising campaigns Importance of transparency and data-driven marketing in achieving ROI Examples of big brands Win Big Media has worked with, emphasizing the use of data in marketing strategies Challenges of interpreting data and turning it into actionable insights Comparison of political campaigns targeting different voter segments to corporate marketing strategies targeting different customer segments About Brandon McKee: Brandon McKee is an essential figure at Win BIG Media, orchestrating, supervising, and streamlining operations within the organization. His pivotal role involves guaranteeing the implementation of efficient operational strategies and cost-effective systems that cater to the present and future requirements of Win BIG Media. Before his tenure at the rapidly expanding WBM, Brandon accrued over a decade of experience in various capacities within the fitness industry. With a Senior Professional in Human Resources certification from HRCI, Brandon also excels in strategic planning. He is raised in the Washington DC vicinity and resides in Arlington, VA. Outside of work, Brandon's pursuits often revolve around spending time at the dog park, where he enjoys the company of his rescue puppy, Bruno, and his partner, Paul. About Win BIG Media: Win BIG Media is a dynamic agency focused on revolutionizing the marketing landscape. Committing to data-driven strategies and innovative, creative solutions empowers business owners and entrepreneurs to reshape industry norms and optimize their ROI. Bolstered by a seasoned team of marketing strategists and acclaimed creative professionals, Win BIG Media equips its clients with a competitive advantage, ensuring success daily. Central to Win BIG Media's ethos is its mission to foster business growth, employment opportunities, and life-altering impacts. This mission is driven by The Undefeated Marketing System, an unwavering approach that ensures continuous and boundless client expansion. In essence, Win BIG Media emerges as a catalyst for transformative marketing endeavours, propelling businesses towards enduring success and forging a new era in the marketing realm. Tweetable Moments: 06:23 - "If you're a business owner out there and you're looking at your budgets, you're looking at what you're going to cut right now because things are tougher, it really really shouldn't be marketing." 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 Win BIG Media website at https://www.winbigmedia.com/ Check out Win BIG Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/winbigmedia Check out Win BIG Media on Instagram at http://instagram.com/winbigm Check out Brandon McKee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-mckee-sphr-b742a860/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Legacy Coach of The Life You Love Coaching LLC, Joe Lander. Joe Lander is different from your typical coach. His work is centred around understanding his purpose and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He challenges the status quo and helps successful professionals and executives identify, create, and live their unique, significant legacies. Joe's background is as diverse as it is impressive. He has worked as an attorney, HR manager, and financial advisor, always focusing on contribution and finding solutions that made sense for his clients. After almost 20 years in financial services, he realized there was more to life than financial success. This led him to ask his clients about their true purpose for money and help them uncover their unique legacies. Joe emphasizes the importance of clarity and becoming one's guru. He helps his clients put together the puzzle pieces of their lives and excavate their deeply held core beliefs. They can find fulfilment and contribute to the world by articulating their legacy in a particular way. Like many high achievers, Joe admits he often feels he's being hard on himself regarding topics like legacy. He believes that his personal experiences make him relatable to others, as he has always questioned whether what he was doing was what he wanted. Joe's journey towards realizing the importance of helping others and creating a meaningful legacy is inspiring. He mentions that many people feel stuck in their current roles and may question if there is something more for them. Joe emphasizes the significance of continuously asking and inquiring about one's purpose and potential. He believes helping others achieve self-actualization and living a fulfilling life is the ultimate goal. Key Points from the Episode: Joe's work centered around understanding his why and creating meaningful legacies Joe's diverse background and transition from financial services to coaching Importance of clarity and becoming one's own guru in uncovering core beliefs and legacy High achievers feeling hard on themselves when it comes to legacy Joe's journey towards realizing the importance of helping others and creating a meaningful legacy Working with individuals feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsatisfied in their work Joe's approach going beyond traditional career coaching and diving deep into life experiences About Joe Lander: Joe Lander is the driving force behind "The Life You Love Coaching," a platform dedicated to empowering accomplished professionals and executives. He assists them in transcending their professional accomplishments by fostering a distinct personal legacy that resonates meaningfully with present and future generations. Recognizing that many high achievers yearn for a more profound impact beyond their careers, Joe helps them tap into their innate potential and creativity. Utilizing a unique methodology, Joe guides individuals in piecing together their life's narrative, illuminating the path that aligns with their purpose. By delving into their core beliefs, clients uncover the power to envision and actualize their extraordinary contributions, ensuring their legacy lives on. Joe's approach is founded on the exclusive R.E.S.O.L.V.E roadmap, a proven framework customized to each person's journey. This roadmap equips them with the tools and strategies to embrace their purpose, surmount challenges, and transform their vision into reality. Joe Lander's coaching empowers individuals to leave a lasting imprint on the world that transcends their professional accomplishments. About The Life You Love Coaching: The Life You Love Coaching specializes in guiding elite, high-performing professionals towards resolving internal conflicts that hinder their true purpose. By addressing these conflicts, individuals gain the assurance and self-assurance needed to unlock their genuine potential, leading to enhanced fulfillment and joy. The coaching program is meticulously designed to cater to top-tier achievers, assisting them in overcoming barriers that prevent them from achieving their highest aspirations. Clients develop the clarity and confidence necessary to embrace their unique greatness through personalized guidance and strategies, resulting in enriched satisfaction and happiness. "The Life You Love Coaching" empowers accomplished professionals to navigate their path with authenticity and purpose, enabling them to experience a more meaningful and fulfilling journey. Tweetable Moments: 08:44 - "Legacy is not something you leave, it's what you get to live now." 23:05 - "Creating a meaningful legacy is about leaving a lasting 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 The Life You Love Coaching website at https://thelifeyoulovecoaching.com/ Check out The Life You Love

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Creative Director of Qream Design Agency, Bohdan Paladiichuk. Bohdan emphasized the importance of keeping the team small to foster creativity and collaboration. He believes a more minor team allows for a more intimate, hands-on approach to their projects. Bohdan explained crucial factors in creating a connection with users and increasing engagement. He likened it to the experience of interactive movies, where viewers can make choices and feel more involved in the story. When asked about the process of coming up with creative ideas, Bohdan explained that it is a skill that can be practiced and developed. He credits his background in comedy and his team's passion for generating innovative ideas. Bohdan emphasized that branding is not just about colors and logos but about the overall promise and value that a brand communicates to its customers. Cream Design Agency helps companies with various channels, including websites, brand communication, and promotional videos. They also assist with the pre-website stage, focusing on brand identity and contact to convey the product's value effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of keeping the team small for creativity and collaboration Use of UX and interactive elements in website design to increase engagement Process of generating creative ideas and the role of comedy and passion Focus on working with tech companies that contribute to making the world a better place Helping brands develop a clear identity and stand out in the market Importance of brand promise and value in branding Assistance with brand communication, promotional videos, and pre-website stage Aligning the product with the brand's promise Fostering creativity through frameworks and exercises, such as design thinking Importance of message and target audience in branding Seeking connections with individuals and businesses who want to engage and stand out About Bohdan Paladiichuk: Bohdan Paladiichuk is a multifaceted individual known for his impactful contributions in various fields. With a unique blend of design, motion, and emotion, he has successfully elevated marketing strategies to new heights. A strong advocate for growth and aesthetics, he's also renowned as an avocado enthusiast. Passionate about emerging technologies, Bohdan actively engages in projects that promote environmental sustainability, benefit humanity, and protect animals. His versatile background includes seven years in music, six years in scriptwriting, and five years in Ju-Jitsu. He demonstrates exceptional leadership skills with four years of experience in top management. Bohdan's diverse experiences are exemplified by his 3-month stay in Bali and his efficient 2-week execution of a scrum sprint. He prides himself on shattering clichés and embracing innovation. Through his dynamic journey, Bohdan Paladiichuk continues to leave a positive imprint on marketing, technology, and personal growth. About Qream Design Agency: Qream Design Agency is a powerhouse of creativity and innovation that leaves a lasting impact. Specializing in crafting vibrant and captivating brands, Qream is known for transforming the mundane into remarkable. Their portfolio boasts eye-catching websites that function as compelling advertisements and impressive videos, animations, and 3D designs. Their excellence has garnered recognition, including being named the 2022 TOP B2B in Ukraine by clutch.co/qream. Qream also earned the prestigious 2022 Website of the Year award from Orpetron for funkywolves.com, and their mobile prowess was celebrated with the 2022 Awards for Mobile Excellence for supermegahyperdoge.com. Notable collaborations with influential entities like Viber, Huobi, IOTA, the Fund of the President of Ukraine, and Ice Cube exemplify their impact. Qream's dedication extends beyond aesthetics, as they draw inspiration from projects that improve the environment, humanity, and animals. Tweetable Moments: 05:38 - "I believe that having this mechanics of the UX where the person can influence what's happening on the website, they can play around with it, touch around or see the immediate results of it, I think that gets the connection a bit warmer with the potential user because again it feels like you're kind of having fun together which I think is what you're trying to also achieve with the business as well as you want to great minds you know co-creating some project at least that's the way I envisioned the best work to happen." 18:57 - "Our enemy is like the boring brand and the faceless brand, the brand that is just trying to be like everybody else." 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 Qream Design Agency website at https://theqream.com/ Check out Qream Design Agency on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/company/19056355 Check out

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder of Freeceo, Annelise Worn. Annelise's journey is one of resilience and determination. She launched her marketing agency in 2017 and soon realized the need to empower women to control their marketing. This led her to start teaching DIY marketing, expanding her focus to include both men and women. Her mission? To help entrepreneurs design businesses prioritizing their well-being and serving as vehicles for freedom. One of the most common challenges Annelise has observed among women entrepreneurs is the tendency to get caught up in the busyness of their businesses. This often leads to undercharging for their services, resulting in burnout and entrapment within their creations. Annalise's solution is to help entrepreneurs establish structures that make their businesses work for them, not the other way around. Regarding marketing trends, Annelise is enthusiastic about a shift towards more relationship-based marketing. While automation and funnels have their place, she believes building genuine connections and focusing on substance is vital in today's market. She advises against relying solely on paid advertising and emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships with potential customers. Annelise also touched on the use of AI in marketing. She sees its potential to make processes more efficient when used correctly. However, she warns against using AI as a shortcut and encourages leveraging it to generate ideas and inform content planning. Key Points from the Episode: Annalise Warren's journey and impact in the marketing world Common challenges faced by women entrepreneurs The importance of putting structure in place to make businesses work for entrepreneurs The trend towards relationship-based marketing The use of AI in marketing and its potential benefits and cautions Moving away from band-aid solutions in offers Speaker 2's programs for building agencies Speaker 2's podcasts and how to find them About Annelise Worn: Annelise Worn is a business strategist and CEO of a digital agency known for empowering coaches, course creators, membership owners, and service providers to achieve freedom, profit, and impact in their lives by integrating efficient systems into their businesses. She is the Founder of Freeceo, an all-in-one marketing, sales, and CRM software platform. Annelise's journey began when she was denied a family-friendly work schedule in 2016, leading her to build a successful agency from her in-laws' kitchen table. Despite facing challenges like undercharging and hiring the wrong people, she learned valuable lessons she now shares with others. Annelise teaches the 7 Simple Systems that helped her break free, avoid burnout, and build a thriving business, allowing her to homeschool her four children and enjoy a self-built home by the beach. She is now a featured expert in various media and events and hosts the Mumstyle Business Podcast and Impact Business Show. About Freeceo: Freeceo is an all-in-one business platform designed to streamline and optimize various aspects of your business. With Freeceo, you can replace multiple tools and consolidate your operations efficiently. It is a comprehensive solution for website and funnel creation and landing pages and acts as a central communication hub with features like email, two-way texting, Facebook and Instagram DMs, and ringless voicemail. Additionally, it offers social media scheduling, calendar bookings, forms, surveys, quizzes, and a chat widget for seamless client interactions. Freeceo also facilitates contract signing, individual and group email management, and automation to save time and effort. Managing payments, review feedback, memberships, and hosting courses is made simple through its versatile features. By integrating all these functionalities, Freeceo empowers businesses to enhance productivity and effectiveness in one place. Tweetable Moments: 02:39 - "We end up drowning in client work and we've created effectively this prison for ourselves instead of this vehicle to freedom." 13:18 - "If you're in that place where you are feeling overwhelmed and like you need some structure then you can go to analyze one or slash seven the number seven systems and you'll find that you can download that there." 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 Freeceo website at https://freeceo.tech/ Check out Annelise Worn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ Check out Annelise Worn on her website at http://anneliseworn.com/ Check out Annelise Worn on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/annelise.worn/ Check out Annelise Worn on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/annelise.worn.5/ Check out Annelise Worn on Instagram at https://instagram.com/anneliseworn Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for l

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder of ELF Solutions Inc, Erin Thorp. Erin's journey in the construction and engineering industry exposed her to various types of leadership. This experience inspired her to focus on leadership development training, coaching, and facilitation through her company, ELF Solutions. She emphasizes the importance of equipping leaders with "power skills," often referred to as soft skills in other contexts. One of the key "power skills" Erin highlights is empathy. While the construction industry may not initially seem like a field where the heart is crucial, she argues that it is essential when dealing with clients to understand their needs and deliver the best projects. She noticed a lack of empathy within construction teams, which sparked her mission to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Erin defines empathy as understanding and accepting other people's perspectives, emotions, feelings, and opinions. She emphasizes that empathy is not about reaching agreement but about demonstrating understanding and acceptance. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of empathy in leadership Erin's book "Inside Out Empathy" ELF Solutions and its focus on leadership development training, coaching, and facilitation Equipping leaders with "power skills" (soft skills) Lack of empathy within construction teams Definition of empathy as understanding and accepting others' perspectives, emotions, feelings, and opinions Importance of understanding and acknowledging one's own emotions About Erin Thorp: Erin Thorp is an empathic keynote speaker, writer, and coach for leaders in high-stress industries. With 20 years of experience in male-dominated engineering and construction, Erin noticed a lack of emotional skills among technical leaders. This inspired her to focus on supporting leaders in navigating conflicts, communication, and performance during challenging times. She believes "soft" skills like empathy, vulnerability, and connection are essential for impactful leadership. During the pandemic, Erin observed how leaders treated their employees and decided to address the issue herself. She now runs her leadership business full-time. Erin authored "Inside Out Empathy," a book that explores using empathy to build effective teams, drawing from her career and experiences as a mother. As a knowledgeable speaker and facilitator, Erin shares her expertise at various events and conferences, including those organized by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, CCWESTT Conference, and Women Building Futures. She also conducts workshops and keynotes for corporations like WNORTH, Atlas Gas, ATCO Energy, Cenouvous Energy, and Schneider Electric. Erin holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Calgary. She is an Associate Certified Coach through Integral Coaching Canada and a Certified Mental Fitness Coach through Positive Intelligence. Additionally, Erin is an authorized partner with The Wiley Brand and the Ken Blanchard Companies, certified to deliver DiSC, The 5 Behaviors, and SLII training. She resides in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with her husband and three children and enjoys reading, outdoor activities, and cooking with her family in her spare time. About ELF Solutions Inc: Elf Solutions Inc. is a leadership consulting company that offers personal and professional development services to emerging leaders, professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs. Their services include 1:1 coaching sessions, keynote speaking engagements, and facilitated workshops. The company is known for its expertise in fostering leadership skills and helping individuals and teams thrive in their respective fields. One of Elf Solutions' notable achievements is the authorship of the book "Inside Out Empathy." This book highlights the underestimated superpower of empathy and its significance in building, developing, and inspiring strong and cohesive teams. Through their coaching and workshops, Elf Solutions aims to equip clients with the essential tools to enhance their leadership capabilities, improve communication, and navigate challenges in high-stress environments. With a focus on empowering leaders with emotional intelligence and people skills, Elf Solutions Inc. plays a crucial role in shaping effective and empathetic leaders who can drive success in both personal and professional spheres. Tweetable Moments: 04:56 - "We spend all this time getting to know our clients and customers so we can deliver the very best project and product to them, and we spend no time trying to get to know our own internal teams and trying to figure out how do we make this an environment where everyone can thrive." 12:49 - "You got to get in touch with what's really going on with you first because if you don't have the capacity to hold your own emotion, you'll never have the capacity to hold the emotion of anyone else." Apply to be a Guest on The Tho

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO, Keynote Speaker & Consultant of The B3 Method Institute, Amy Vetter. Amy Vetter is a unique blend of a CPA, yoga instructor, and technologist. She leverages this diverse background to help individuals and businesses find balance and bliss. During our conversation, Amy emphasized the importance of self-awareness and the need for moments of stillness and silence. She believes we can optimize our productivity and overall well-being by disconnecting from our fast-paced, left-brain-dominated world and tuning into our intuition. This approach is about taking drastic changes over time. Instead, Amy encourages individuals to start small with intentional habits, such as focusing on breathing and taking moments to reset the central nervous system. Amy acknowledges that everyone's journey to mindfulness is unique. It takes time for individuals to be ready to embrace mindfulness practices. She also recognizes the stress experienced by professionals, particularly CPAs and entrepreneurs. To address this, she developed a methodology outlined in her book "Business Balance and Bliss." This methodology focuses on understanding stressors and using mindfulness and collaboration techniques to create bliss and maintain happiness. Amy also emphasizes the need for self-awareness and intentional thoughts to shape our perception and reality. She offers resources such as books, webinars, and consulting services to help individuals and organizations achieve work-life harmony. She aims to transform workplaces into destinations where employees are happy and fulfilled. Key Points from the Episode: Amy Vetter's work and role as CEO of the B3 Method Institute Importance of incorporating mindfulness into leadership and work-life harmony Amy's background as a CPA, yoga instructor, and technologist Need for self-awareness and moments of stillness and silence Disconnecting from the frenetic left brain and listening to intuition Starting small with intentional habits and focusing on breath Acknowledging that everyone's journey is unique and takes time Amy's methodology outlined in her book "Business Balance and Bliss" Using mindfulness and collaboration techniques to create bliss and maintain happiness About Amy Vetter: Amy Vetter, CPA, CITP, CGMA, MBA, and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), is a highly accomplished CEO, keynote speaker, consultant, and author. She is the creator of the B3 Method® for Business, Balance & Bliss, which has empowered countless individuals across various industries and career levels to reach their full potential in work and life. As a prominent figure in the accounting and finance profession, Amy has been recognized as one of the "Most Powerful Women in Accounting" by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor and a Top 100 Most Influential Person by Accounting Today. She contributes her expertise to publications like AICPA's Journal of Accountancy, Accounting Today, CPA Practice Advisor, Inc.com, and Entrepreneur.com. Amy's diverse background, including an MBA and entrepreneurial experience, has made her a skilled C-suite executive and corporate board member. She is well-versed in cloud technology, business transformation, and go-to-market strategies for scaling businesses nationally and internationally. Through her books, "Business, Balance & Bliss: How the B3 Method Can Transform Your Career and Life" and "Integrative Advisory Services: Expanding Your Accounting Services Beyond the Cloud," Amy shares powerful insights on living an authentic life, achieving work-life harmony, and emphasizing the significance of human connections. Her latest book, "Disconnect to Connect; Tap into the Power Within You to Achieve the Life You Desire," is an Amazon Bestseller that guides readers in breaking negative generational patterns and harnessing the power within themselves to design the life they truly desire. Amy's impactful TEDx Talk, "Disconnect to Connect: The Path to Work-Life Harmony," further demonstrates her dedication to inspiring positive change and personal growth. About The B3 Method Institute: The B3 Method® Institute is a comprehensive educational organization offering various services to support personal and professional growth. The institute guides individuals and organizations in different essential areas through keynote speaking, education, advisory services, and subject matter expert (SME) consulting. The core focus of The B3 Method® Institute is to help individuals achieve their desired potential in their careers and personal lives by leveraging the B3 Method (Business + Balance = Bliss). Each B3 Bundle features a distinct theme tailored to address various aspects of life, encompassing work-life harmony, authenticity, and presence. With a strong emphasis on wellness, mindful leadership, employee engagement, and productivity, the institute equips participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder and CEO of Wolf's Edge Integrators, Ben Wolf. Ben is a successful entrepreneur and the author of the groundbreaking book "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." His journey from a corporate bankruptcy attorney to a healthcare startup and eventually founding his firm is inspiring. Ben's experience scaling a business from a handful of people to over 100 employees has given him a unique perspective on entrepreneurs' challenges. His insights led him to write the first book on fractional executive leadership and start a podcast in this niche, making him a pioneer in this field. Ben shed light on the concept of fractional leadership. He described it as a solution to the "entrepreneurial catch 22" - a situation where businesses reach a point where their old strategies no longer work, but they can't afford experienced talent to help them evolve. This is where fractional executives come in. They provide businesses with access to experienced talent part-time, helping them navigate their growth challenges. Ben further explained the indicators that suggest a business might benefit from fractional leadership. Key Points from the Episode: Ben's background and experience in fractional leadership Explanation of fractional leadership and its benefits for businesses Indicators that suggest a business could benefit from fractional leadership Example of an HVAC company with a low-functioning leadership team Overview of Ben's book "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach" Mention of Ben's podcast "The Win-Win Podcast" for small and mid-sized business owners About Ben Wolf: Ben Wolf is a renowned international speaker specializing in the entrepreneurial scaling of businesses. Often referred to as the "godfather" of fractional executive leadership, he has played a pivotal role in popularizing and advancing the outsourced, part-time executive leadership industry. As the founder and CEO of Wolf's Edge Integrators, the world's largest fractional COO firm, he has provided executive talent and expertise to businesses seeking growth and operational excellence. Ben's expertise and insights have reached a broader audience through his bestselling book, "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." Additionally, he hosts the well-received Win Win Podcast, further contributing to disseminating valuable business knowledge and strategies. His impactful work continues to inspire and support entrepreneurs worldwide. About Wolf's Edge Integrators: Wolf's Edge Integrators is a distinctive team comprising individuals with a rare blend of skills and qualities. These exceptional individuals must have experience in running companies, embody a Founder's drive, and possess a unique ability to collaborate with visionaries while maintaining a results-oriented mindset. Thriving on orchestrating chaos, they find vigor in this process rather than exhaustion. Their commitment to iterative transformation is a defining trait. Ben Wolf, the founder, has detailed their essence in the Amazon bestseller "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." Geared toward weary business owners and Integrators who possess founder-like zeal, this book encapsulates the vision. The rigorous selection process empowers us to guarantee a full refund within the initial 30 days if our commitment falters—a testament to their caliber. About Fractional Leadership LLC: Fractional Leadership LLC is a distinguished professional association and community catering to all types of fractional executives, including firm owners, solo practitioners, and members of firms. The organization was established to address the lack of a centralized resource in the fractional executive leadership industry, providing valuable information and support to fractional executives and business owners seeking insights into this field. As the market leader for the Fractional Leadership industry, this organization offers a range of essential services, including professional development opportunities, networking connections, peer advisory support, and advocacy for both solo practitioners and firms engaged in fractional executive roles. Fractional Leadership LLC plays a crucial role in advancing the knowledge, expertise, and success of professionals within the fractional executive leadership domain by fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. 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 Fractional Leadership LLC website at http://www.fractionalleadership.io/ Check out Fractional Leadership LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fractional-leadership/ Check out Fractional Leadership LLC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FractionalLeadership/ Ch

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Co-Founder of Carbide, Darren Gallop. Darren explained that the black market for cybercrime has surpassed the proceeds from illicit drugs globally, and organized crime groups are becoming more involved. With the regulatory environment becoming more aggressive, companies face complex compliance requirements, primarily if they operate internationally. One of Darren's key points was the importance of addressing human error in data breaches. Carbide offers a platform that helps companies mitigate this risk. Carbide is a company that is making waves in the cybersecurity industry. They provide a unique service that helps small- to medium-sized companies comply with information security and data privacy. Darren emphasized the importance of cybersecurity and the risks associated with not following best practices. Many companies approach Carbide because they must meet specific security requirements to do business with government agencies, enterprises, or insurance companies. Previously, companies would handle security internally with outside assistance or hire expensive cybersecurity consulting firms. Carbide, however, offers a new way of doing things. They provide tools that leverage intelligent technology and cloud-based solutions to help organizations build security and privacy programs more efficiently and cost-effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Emphasis on the importance of cybersecurity and the risks of not following best practices Explanation of why companies come to Carbide, often due to security requirements from government agencies, enterprises, or insurance companies Description of Carbide's approach, leveraging intelligent technology and cloud-based solutions to build security and privacy programs efficiently and cost-effectively Focus on Carbide's target market, primarily B2B software-as-a-service companies Discussion of how Carbide acquired their first customers through their network and connections Growth of Carbide, including sales and marketing efforts, building a sales team, and implementing a go-to-market strategy Highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for companies to prioritize cybersecurity Mention of the increasing complexity of compliance requirements, especially for companies operating internationally About Darren Gallop: Darren Gallop is the Co-Founder and CEO of Carbide, a leading cybersecurity firm that equips businesses of all sizes with tools to establish robust cybersecurity and privacy measures. His company helps clients protect their data from cybercriminals, transform security into a competitive advantage, and foster accelerated growth. With Carbide, Darren has raised over $7 million in funding and witnessed a rapid expansion of their clientele, especially in regulated markets such as e-commerce, FinTech, healthcare, and Insurtech. Darren has over 15 years of experience as a CEO and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for various businesses handling sensitive data. This experience has enabled him to develop a keen understanding of evaluating and managing risks in alignment with organizational goals while fostering growth. Before Carbide, he co-founded Marcato, an innovative event management platform utilized by 300+ music and cultural events worldwide, including renowned events like Burning Man and Coachella. After a decade of successful leadership as CEO and CISO, Darren decided to focus entirely on the cybersecurity industry. He holds certifications as a Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). About Carbide: Carbide is a company that offers accessible enterprise-class security and privacy solutions to rapidly growing businesses. Unlike standard compliance tools, their information security and privacy management platform is built on universal best practices, allowing customers to demonstrate their dedication to security and comply effortlessly with various security frameworks and privacy regulations. With Carbide's platform, businesses can seamlessly integrate security and privacy measures into their organizational structure, enhancing their competitive advantage and facilitating accelerated growth. By promoting and proving their commitment to security, companies can navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and privacy regulations more effectively, ultimately leading to a more secure and prosperous future. Tweetable Moments: 03:57 - "Companies should follow best practices because that's what's going to save them if you have a major data breach." 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 Carbide website at https://carbidesecure.com/ Check out Carbide on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/carbidesecure/ Check out Carbide on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Carbide

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder, Publicist & Creative Director of The Conscious Publicist, LLC, Ashley Graham. Ashley's journey began as a publicist, representing clients to get them featured on podcasts. However, in 2023, she took a leap of faith and became a podcaster. This transition allowed her to experience both sides of the podcasting journey, giving her a unique perspective on the power of this medium. Ashley believes podcasts offer a direct window into conversations and the impact of shared stories. They have a unique power in storytelling and creating emotional connections through auditory experiences. Regarding PR and publicity, Ashley emphasizes the importance of building solid relationships and adopting a long-term perspective. While visibility and recognition are the ultimate goals, PR is a journey that requires consistent effort and cannot guarantee immediate results. Ashley acknowledged that some prospective clients still seek traditional media, but she also encouraged them to be open to other opportunities. While traditional media still holds value, Ashley emphasizes the benefits of digital platforms, such as repurposing content and measuring results through SEO. Key Points from the Episode: Ashley Graham's background as the founder and publicist of The Conscious Publicist The power of podcasts in storytelling and creating emotional connections The importance of building strong relationships and long-term perspectives in PR and publicity The value of traditional media in today's social media-dominated world Success story of a client featured in Newsweek and the collaborative relationship with Ashley The benefits of digital platforms and measuring results through SEO Leveraging opportunities in traditional media and engaging with the audience About Ashley Graham: Ashley Graham, Founder of The Conscious Publicist, is a strong advocate for purpose-driven businesses and their potential to drive positive change. She and her team believe in the power of storytelling and are dedicated to helping clients build meaningful connections and relationships. By guiding businesses in developing practices and strategies aligned with their goals, Ashley aims to foster a more conscious and sustainable world. The Conscious Publicist offers tailored PR and media services that align with the client's values and goals, empowering purpose-driven businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and visionaries to positively impact their target audience. What sets TCP apart is its unique approach to curating offers and services that align with the client's mission, focusing on personal and interpersonal growth alongside PR strategies. As a leader, Ashley has experienced significant growth, becoming more self-aware and proactive in addressing limiting beliefs or practices. Her commitment to conscious living and empowering businesses creates a more sustainable future, inspiring others on their entrepreneurial paths. About The Conscious Publicist: The Conscious Publicist is a unique PR, Media, and Thought Leadership concierge that caters to Subject-Matter Experts, Thought-Philanthropists, and Impact-Driven Organizations. Their primary focus is raising the recognition and credibility of conscious voices and leaders who aim to inspire transformation through public messages and stories. The company addresses the problem faced by purpose-driven businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and visionaries who require assistance amplifying their message and gaining visibility within their target audience. The Conscious Publicist provides PR and media services aligned with the client's values and objectives, helping them establish a strong brand identity, increase visibility, and effectively resonate with their audience. What sets The Conscious Publicist apart is their distinctive approach to curating offers and services that align with the client's mission and purpose. They prioritize a balance between "doing" and "being," focusing on PR and media strategies and personal and interpersonal growth. By empowering clients to develop the necessary character traits and strengths, the company creates a supportive space for clients to make a lasting positive impact on the world. Tweetable Moments: 07:43 - "I always say that there is a blend between doing PR but then also a process of being and really coming back to center and identifying what led you on that path in the first place." 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 Conscious Publicist website at https://theconsciouspublicist.com/ Check out The Conscious Publicist on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-conscious-publicist/ Check out Ashley Graham on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theconsciouspublicist/ Check out Ashley Graham on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mediaarchetype Don’t forget to subsc

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner of CWR, Jessica Dragan. In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner of Can’t Wait To Retire, Jessica Dragan. Jessica's journey into business transition investment was a complex one. After leaving the military, she accidentally fell into business ownership. She built and grew her own business, but eventually, she disliked it and wanted to sell. However, the pandemic allowed her to pivot and explore new ventures. One of these ventures was managing a mini golf course, an experience that led her to discover her passion for mergers and acquisitions. Jessica explained that her business ownership background and ability to evaluate and fix businesses naturally led her to this field. Jessica shared her experience of hating her business due to the constant focus on the company, lack of work-life balance, and challenges managing a large staff. She emphasized the importance of having a balance and enjoying the work you do. When asked for advice on processing these feelings and making a change, Jessica suggested a solution for business owners who want to sell but still want to be involved in the company. They can stay in the company and choose the role they enjoy while Jessica and her investors take over the business operations. This can be an excellent option for those who don't want to exit their business altogether. Key Points from the Episode: Discussion on the value of veterans in the business world Jessica's military experience and how it influenced her approach to business Jessica's role as a business transition investor and her journey into this field Jessica's experience of building and selling her own business The impact of the pandemic on Jessica's career and her pivot into mergers and acquisitions Jessica's reflections on the challenges of business ownership and the importance of work-life balance About Jessica Dragan: Jessica Dragan is a highly experienced and successful business consultant with a background as a veteran of the United States Army. In 2004, she entered the world of business ownership, where she has thrived ever since. Specializing in due diligence services, Jessica assists companies in various stages of their entrepreneurial journey. She excels in business transitions for retiring individuals, those facing life changes like illness or divorce, or anyone seeking a fresh start. With her no-nonsense attitude, Jessica is dedicated to helping her clients increase revenue and reduce fixed costs, making her an invaluable partner to any business owner. Her adaptability and quick thinking have proven beneficial in diverse situations, from turning around struggling mini-golf courses to guiding clients through complex business transitions. Having undergone extensive training in mergers and acquisitions, Jessica has cultivated a valuable network of investors and collaboration opportunities. She values strong relationships and constantly seeks ways to build and maintain connections with clients and partners. Jessica's unwavering belief in the potential of every business drives her passion for helping them achieve their full capabilities. With her military background and ability to tackle challenges head-on, she is exceptionally equipped to take businesses to new heights. About Can’t Wait To Retire: Can't Wait to Retire is a strategic investment and acquisition firm with a distinctive approach. Can't Wait to Retire specializes in identifying businesses whose owners are considering exiting, whether they know it or not. What sets them apart is its extensive network of seasoned professionals and a forward-thinking mindset that explores unique possibilities. They offer financial backing and leverages its network to provide businesses with the resources and expertise they need to reach their goals. The firm's approach is characterized by adaptability and innovation, ensuring that companies are positioned for success, whether it's growth, transformation, or preparing for a seamless exit. Their commitment is to guide businesses to their desired destinations, utilizing its wealth of experience and a proactive approach that embraces unforeseen opportunities. 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 Can’t Wait To Retire website at https://www.cantwaittoretire.com/ Check out Jessica Dragan on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadragan/ Check out Jessica Dragan on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheRealJessicaDragan Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER?

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Chief Executive Officer of CuriosityBased, Julie Pham. Dr. Julie Pham is a force to be reckoned with. Her mission is to help people practice curiosity in the workplace. She believes there is often a gap between what leaders say they value, such as curiosity, and what individual contributors experience. Curiosity, according to Julie, is a practice. It's about asking questions and feeling safe to do so. She cited a study that found 70% of individual contributors think there are barriers to asking questions at work. This can hinder communication and learning, which are vital for any organization's growth and success. One of the reasons people hesitate to ask questions is the fear of looking incompetent or dumb. Julie acknowledges this fear but also points out that asking questions can reveal that one wasn't listening or their team didn't adequately prepare them. However, she notes that some people consider asking questions passive and prefer to state opinions instead. To counter this, Julie suggests that leaders can model curiosity by admitting when they don't know something and encouraging others to ask questions. She recommends leaders ask questions themselves, create a safe environment for questions, and give everyone a chance to contribute in meetings. Julie shares her litmus test for language - if her refugee parents with limited English cannot understand the words being used, then it is necessary to reconsider the language. She believes that communication should not be about intellectual bullying but rather about being able to communicate with one another.   Key Points from the Episode: Importance of curiosity in the workplace Gap between leaders' values and individual contributors' experiences Definition of curiosity as a practice and the importance of asking questions Barriers to asking questions at work Fear of looking incompetent or dumb as a reason for hesitating to ask questions Leaders modeling curiosity and creating a safe environment for questions Using plain language and clear communication for effective and inclusive conversations Curiosity-based inclusion and the importance of asking questions for learning about others and oneself Challenging nature of practicing curiosity and the importance of grace and listening   About Dr. Julie Pham: Dr. Julie Pham is a best selling author, a charismatic, dynamic public speaker, and an award-winning researcher and entrepreneur. Her talks are based on her nontraditional career path as well as her original research and years of community building. Her speeches have been characterized as “surprising”, “interactive,” and "thought-provoking.” She engages audiences to reframe popularly held beliefs and guides them to discuss and practice in real time. Dr. Julie Pham was born in Saigon, and escaped with her family as boat people to the U.S. to Seattle. She earned her PhD in history at Cambridge University as a Gates Cambridge Scholar and she graduated magna cum laude from UC Berkeley as a Haas Scholar. She then got her "real life MBA" by returning to Seattle to help lead her family’s Vietnamese newspaper through the 2008-2010 recession. She left the newspaper to work in the tech industry and then pivoted to start her company, CuriosityBased, in the middle of the pandemic.   About CuriosityBased: CuriosityBased is a dedicated consulting practice that empowers individuals to harness the potential of their curiosity through interactive workshops and skilled facilitation. Specializing in enhancing communication, collaboration, and inclusivity, CuriosityBased fosters an environment where curiosity thrives. The practice develops vital interpersonal skills by guiding participants to embrace their curiosity. Through thoughtfully designed workshops and expert facilitation, CuriosityBased cultivates a culture of open-minded exploration, fostering better understanding, teamwork, and a more comprehensive sense of belonging.   Tweetable Moments: 02:40- "I don't want to look dumb, I don't want to look incompetent, so I don't want to ask that question in front of my manager, my superior, or my coworkers, my team members. You know, they're going to think I'm a dummy."   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 CuriosityBased website at https://curiositybased.com/ Check out CuriosityBased on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/curiositybased/ Check out CuriosityBased on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/curiositybased Check out CuriosityBased on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/curiositybased/ Check out CuriosityBased on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@curiositybased Check out Dr. Julie Pham on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliepham2/ Check out Dr. Julie Pham on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/juliephamphd/ C

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Profits Strategist & Online Business Coach, Jeanne Omlor. Jeanne Omlor is a seasoned business profit strategist who works with coaches, consultants, and service providers. Her clientele ranges from newbies in the industry to seasoned professionals. Jeanne's expertise lies in helping businesses maximize client acquisition without needing paid ads. She has mastered the art of organic marketing, leveraging social media profiles to attract clients through compelling content. Jeanne emphasizes the importance of focusing on and mastering one platform rather than spreading oneself too thin. She advises against the temptation of chasing shiny objects. Instead, she recommends finding a medium, such as podcasting, and becoming an authority on that platform. Jeanne also highlights the importance of clear messaging and visuals and intriguing and compelling content that fascinates and intrigues the audience. She acknowledges that some people may perceive organic marketing as a lot of work or activity they're not excited about. However, Jeanne compares it to learning any skill, such as playing the piano, which requires coaching, training, and commitment. She encourages listeners to approach organic marketing with the same dedication and seek guidance to avoid going down the wrong track.   Key Points from the Episode: Maximizing client acquisition without paid advertising Leveraging social media profiles to attract clients through compelling content Importance of focusing on one platform and becoming an authority on it Clear messaging, visuals, and intriguing content for audience engagement Comparing organic marketing to learning a skill and the need for coaching and commitment Indicators of being on the right track in business and the role of coaching Engagement on social media doesn't always lead to clients, but can be leveraged for conversions Importance of reviews and positive results in determining credibility   About Jeanne Omlor: Jeanne Omlor is an accomplished Online Business Strategist specializing in Organic Marketing. Her expertise is helping Visionary Coaches, Consultants, and Service Providers achieve significant growth, aiming for $20k in months and beyond. Jeanne understands that many have tried Organic Marketing but have yet to succeed due to the lack of a well-defined strategy. She assists her clients in maximizing impact while generating the revenues they deserve. Beyond working with professionals in the coaching and consulting industries, Jeanne also empowers "Everyday Experts" to package their knowledge effectively and positively impact others' lives. Instead of relying on generic approaches, she emphasizes personalization as the key to success, offering proven sub-strategies tailored to each client's unique business needs. Jeanne focuses on devising customized plans to sell high-ticket offers on platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook, providing strategic guidance and support.   Tweetable Moments: 19:34 - "It's really important that people see how we all interact with our actual clients. That speaks volumes."   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 Jeanne Omlor website at https://jeanneomlor.com/ Check out Jeanne Omlor on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanneomlor/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/jeanne-omlor-international/ Check out Jeanne Omlor on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jeanneomlor/ Check out Jeanne Omlor on Twitter at https://twitter.com/jeanneomlor Check out Jeanne Omlor on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jeanneomlor/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founders & Chief Operations Officer of CodeCrew INC, Alex Melone & Andrei Marin. Alexander and Andrei highlighted two crucial areas: deliverability and segmentation. They stressed the importance of ensuring emails reach the intended recipients and tailoring messages to specific audience segments. To illustrate this, they gave an example of a brand selling kayaks and explained how segmenting the audience based on their purchase history can lead to more effective email campaigns. They also mentioned the transition from Google Analytics to GA4 but clarified that it hadn't caused significant issues for them. They explained that they rely on data from their email service provider and e-commerce platforms for reporting rather than heavily relying on Google Analytics. Alexander explained that triggered messaging is a way to send messages to people based on their actions on a website. It involves understanding their intentions and crafting personalized messages. Andrei added that implementing triggered messaging doesn't require expensive software and can be done with a free email service provider for smaller brands. However, more prominent brands with more complex data points may need a more robust and costly tool.   Key Points from the Episode: Specialization in email marketing and 22 years of combined experience Importance of deliverability and segmentation in email marketing Example of segmenting audience based on purchase history Discussion on recent changes in Google and its impact on email tracking Types of companies Code Crew works with and their achieved outcomes Power of triggered messaging and personal experience shared by Speaker 1 Implementation of triggered messaging with free email service provider for smaller brands Need for more powerful and costly tools for larger brands with complex data points   About Alex Melone: Alex Melone is a versatile professional with a wide-ranging skill set. He has explored various industries throughout his career, including race car mechanics and construction management. However, his true expertise lies in email marketing, where he has honed his abilities as a project manager and technical specialist. Having collaborated with prominent brands and exciting startups, Alex understands the essential factors driving success in email marketing. He values client satisfaction and knows how to align strategies with their specific business objectives.He also emphasizes the importance of addressing technical aspects to ensure optimal outcomes, a vital but often overlooked part of the industry. Alex serves as an officer at CodeCrew, a leading email marketing agency. In this role, he oversees and manages projects of all sizes for various companies, contributing to their success in the ever-evolving digital marketing landscape.   About Andrei Marin: Andrei Marin is a seasoned professional with over a decade of technical and marketing expertise. He has held various dynamic roles ranging from email, website, and theme development to adeptly solving diverse email marketing challenges for prominent and emerging brands. Noticing the need for an improved approach, Andrei and his co-founders established CodeCrew – a leading global email marketing agency. Beyond just driving impressive client ROI, their mission extends to utilizing business as a force for positive impact. Andrei's profound enthusiasm for entrepreneurship was ignited during his childhood when he engaged in street-level sales of small items, instilling a lifelong aspiration to be an entrepreneur. His journey culminated in successfully co-founding and independently funding two technology-based ventures before age 30, showcasing his dedication and skill in the business realm.   About CodeCrew INC: CodeCrew INC is an email marketing agency that started in 2018 and has grown into a dynamic team of over 40 experts in email design, code, strategy, data analysis, and campaign management. With vast experience collaborating with startups, industry leaders, and various businesses, CodeCrew is well-equipped to handle any challenge that comes their way. One standout feature of CodeCrew is their flexibility, as they are not tied to any specific email service provider, making it hassle-free for clients to work with their preferred platforms. Their dedication to using business for good is commendable, as they actively turn away clients that might have negative impacts, focusing instead on supporting small businesses and NGOs with pro bono email marketing assistance. Moreover, their commitment to environmental sustainability is evident through their reforestation program, where they plant two trees for every email or SMS campaign they handle and donate 1% of profits towards restoration efforts.   Tweetable Moments: 06:24 - "Your likelihood of annoying them is really, really high. And so why do that? Let's make sure that w

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Innovation Officer of Growth Acceleration Partners, Dave Moore. As the Chief Innovation Officer at Growth Acceleration Partners, Dave shared that his role is centered around failure. He emphasized that innovative companies tolerate failure and embrace and celebrate it. This approach involves testing and pushing limits in a controlled environment, not about making catastrophic mistakes. Dave works internally with teams to develop innovative solutions for customers and helps them implement these processes. Dave provided an insightful overview of Growth Acceleration Partners, a company that advises, designs, and builds custom software and data solutions. With a team of 600 people based in Austin, Texas, and engineers in Latin America, they help customers build a competitive advantage by providing engineering talent and expertise. Dave emphasized the benefits of the central time zone alignment with US-based customers and the high quality of engineers in the region. Their range of services is impressive, from long-term engagements for established companies to advisory services for startups, providing flexibility and scalability for their clients' software development needs.   Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Growth Acceleration Partners and its services Advantages of working with a Latin America talent pool Importance of technical knowledge for business owners in software development Origins and growth of Growth Acceleration Partners Current trends in the industry, particularly AI technology Role of Chief Innovation Officer at Growth Acceleration Partners Embracing failure and iterating on ideas   About Dave Moore: Dave Moore is the Chief Innovation Officer at GAP, bringing over two decades of expertise as a software developer and architect keen on creating scalable cloud-based applications. He has led large engineering teams and developed applications utilized by millions of users. Before his role at GAP, Dave served as a consultant at IBM, assisting clients across various industries with public cloud adoption, modern software architectures, big data analytics, and fostering a DevSecOps culture. Dave's versatility shines as he effortlessly advises both C-suite executives on strategic technology challenges and engineers and architects in implementing groundbreaking solutions. He is also an accomplished author and frequent conference speaker, specializing in databases and application modernization. At GAP, Dave's primary goal is to help customers transform their applications and data to gain a competitive edge in the market. His wealth of experience makes him invaluable in driving innovation and technological advancement.   About Growth Acceleration Partners: Growth Acceleration Partners (GAP) is a strategic technology solutions partner specializing in Digital Transformation through top-notch software and data engineering teams. With a focus on building lasting client partnerships, GAP combines extensive domain knowledge and deep technical expertise to deliver seamless, transparent processes and transformative results. Founded in 2007 by CEO Joyce Durst, GAP is driven by values and committed to fostering long-term success for individuals, companies, and communities. As an early advocate of the nearshoring model, GAP provides outsourced software development services from countries close to the U.S., ensuring geographical and cultural proximity. GAP excels in designing cutting-edge solutions using the latest cloud-based technologies. Their agile, accountable, and customer-centric engineering teams contribute to one of the highest client satisfaction rates in the industry. GAP ensures continuous delivery with transparent communication by seamlessly integrating into clients' organizations. GAP's expertise helps businesses scale intelligently, converting objectives into data-driven decision-making and delivering software solutions that drive crucial business outcomes.   Tweetable Moments: 02:33 - "The talent pool of engineers in Latin America is phenomenal, so we get really high marks on the quality of engineers that are helping solve customer problems. That's the big thing."   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 Growth Acceleration Partners website at https://www.growthaccelerationpartners.com/ Check out Growth Acceleration Partners on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/growth-acceleration-partners/ Check out Growth Acceleration Partners on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GrowthAccelerationPartners Check out Growth Acceleration Partners on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GAPapps Check out Dave Moore on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dmoore/ Check out Dave Moore on Twitter at https://twitter.com/DAVE_M00RE Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful En

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Broker & Business Advisor of Website Closers, Nate Lind. Nate Lind is not your average broker. He started his career in real estate, transitioned into e-commerce entrepreneurship, and eventually found his calling as a broker and business advisor at Website Closers. His diverse background and wealth of experience make him a valuable resource for entrepreneurs looking to sell their digital businesses. Nate shared his experiences in selling service-based and content businesses. He revealed that Website Closers has built a buyer's network with over 100,000 buyers and has sold over 3,000 companies. According to Nate, digital businesses' appeal lies in their ability to be operated remotely, which significantly broadens the buyer market. Interestingly, Nate mentioned that even institutional investors recognize digital businesses' value, especially in the e-commerce and tech sectors. Despite the current economic climate, digital companies are in high demand. However, valuing these businesses can be complex, with multiples varying wildly depending on growth, earnings, and industry factors. Nate emphasized that selling a business doesn't have to be complicated. He shared his experience of selling a $25 million company with the help of virtual assistants. Nate offers free consultations, including a business valuation and sales plan, for businesses at least two years old and making a quarter million dollars in profit. He stressed the importance of determining the worth of a business before deciding to sell, as it motivates the seller and attracts potential buyers. Nate also mentioned that Website Closers is a leading marketplace for digital companies, selling around 300 businesses per year.   Key Points from the Episode: Nate's experiences in selling service-based and content businesses Market demand for digital businesses and the appeal of operating them remotely Recognition of the value of digital businesses by institutional investors Valuing digital businesses and factors that affect multiples Nate's own experience of selling a $25 million company with the help of virtual assistants Free consultations, business valuation, and sales plan offered by Nate Website Closers as a leading marketplace for digital businesses Importance of confidentiality in the selling process   About Nate Lind: Nate Lind is an accomplished American entrepreneur, triathlete, author, and business broker. Inspired by the book "Rich Dad Poor Dad," he aspired for financial freedom and passive income. In 2016, he successfully exited his first venture, an e-commerce technology company that transitioned into a shopping cart platform. Recognizing the benefits of selling a company and reinvesting in passive income, Nate embraced the role of a business broker. Working with Website Closers, the largest marketplace for Internet, Technology, and E-commerce businesses valued between $1 million to $150 million, he adeptly handles transactions akin to how Realtors sell homes. Currently, Website Closers boasts an impressive 103 client businesses for sale, with 167,000 potential buyers actively seeking investment opportunities. Their impressive track record has facilitated over 300 company sales within their private network in the current year. Nate Lind's diverse expertise and experience make him a key figure in entrepreneurship and business brokerage.   About Website Closers: Website Closers, LLC operates WebsiteClosers.com, a full-service brokerage that assists online and internet asset entrepreneurs. Their highly experienced team goes beyond essential buyer-seller connections, offering personalized sales strategies tailored to each business owner's needs. They provide comprehensive services, including a detailed analysis of the mergers and acquisitions marketplace, business valuations, and coaching on business growth strategies. Specializing in selling website properties, Website Closers excels in representing sellers of online assets and ensuring they connect with the right buyers at the right purchase price. Their strong relationships with various lenders nationwide enable smooth financing solutions for buyers, including expertise in successfully guiding transactions through SBA financing. With over 20 years of experience, Website Closers has earned a reputation for navigating the complexities of government-backed lending, making them a reliable choice for business owners seeking a seamless and profitable sale of their online businesses.   Tweetable Moments: 04:18 - "These businesses are the way of the future and even these old and institutional investors are like dang I need to get something that's digital or that's like growing and the pandemic put you know e-commerce and anything around e-commerce on the map as like the savior of retail so everyone's looking at it right now if you've got an internet tech digital saas company or software company

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder, Lead Strategist & Social Media Content Creator of Oh Snap! Social, Karlyn Ankrom. When asked about trends in social media, Karlyn emphasized the power of video and the importance of showcasing expertise and authenticity. She encourages business owners to repurpose content, such as podcast interviews or media appearances, to reach a wider audience. She further talked about the ever-changing rules and regulations of social media platforms and the importance of diversifying one's online presence beyond social media. Karlyn advises building an email list and exploring other platforms like podcasts to ensure a sustainable business, even if social media platforms were to disappear. Karlyn also discussed the current state of Twitter, describing it as the "wild wild west" of social media. She advises businesses to continue using it but to measure the metrics and stay updated with the platform's changes. Karlyn shared that Oh Snap Social has recently made a conscious shift to serve purpose-driven organizations and business owners. This decision underscores the agency's commitment to helping businesses that are positively impacting their communities. Carlin also touched on using AI tools, particularly ChatGPT, which she uses for speed and ideation. She mentioned using it for leadership communication and repurposing content but emphasized that it will never replace human interaction. She also mentioned Pinterest as a platform that may be worth keeping an eye on, especially for driving referral traffic to websites.   Key Points from the Episode: Oh Snap Social's focus on purpose-driven organizations The power of video and showcasing expertise and authenticity in social media The current state of Twitter and the need to measure metrics and stay updated The importance of creating original content in short-form videos The use of AI tools like ChatGPT for speed and ideation Emerging social media platforms like Clubhouse and Pinterest Determining client fit based on goals and long-term approach to social media The impact (or lack thereof) of verification on social media platforms   About Karlyn Ankrom: Karlyn Ankrom is a social media expert emphasizing the importance of a strategic and consistent online presence. In today's evolving social landscape, he advocates focusing on key social networks and understanding the target audience to create meaningful content. Consistency is crucial for success, starting with a manageable content schedule and gradually expanding output. Knowing the audience is vital, and Karlyn encourages creating audience personas to tailor content better and engage with them on their preferred platforms. He suggests a diverse content mix, combining brand elements with curated content, owned content, and sales/promotions. Karlyn emphasizes setting measurable goals and having a social media manual to guide marketing efforts, from attracting prospects to converting them into customers. He offers valuable insights and actionable tactics through consultations for individuals, businesses, and brands seeking to maximize their social media impact.   About Oh Snap! Social: Oh Snap! Social is a social media management and reputation management service. They aim to help businesses build a positive reputation and meaningful connections with their customers on various social media platforms. They understand the significance of social conversations in shaping a brand's image and recognize its impact on existing and potential customers. Oh Snap! Social assists clients in developing effective social strategy systems, ensuring that efforts put into social media management pay off with increased likes, follows, and engagement. However, their focus goes beyond mere metrics, emphasizing the importance of establishing genuine connections with the audience and fostering loyalty and support for the business. By offering comprehensive social media management and reputation management solutions, Oh Snap Social aims to ensure businesses maintain an excellent online reputation and thrive through meaningful interactions with their customer base.   Tweetable Moments: 08:40 - "Stop overthinking it. It's literally a ten-second, seven-second short or reel. It's there and gone." 15:17 - "Show up as who you are and who you're meant to be and your authentic self and people will gravitate towards you."   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Oh Snap! Social website at https://ohsnapsocial.com/ Check out Oh Snap! Social on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/oh-snap-social/ Check out Oh Snap! Social on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/ohsnapsocial/ Check out Karlyn Ankrom on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlynankrom/ Check out Karlyn Ankrom on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Ka

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Managing Director of Blue Sky Exit Planning, Joseph Gitto. Joe focuses on the lower middle market, which includes companies with revenue ranging from 5 to 25 million dollars. This market is often overlooked when it comes to exit planning, and Joe's mission is to bring the level of expertise and resources available to larger companies to these smaller businesses. Exiting a business is not just a financial decision; it's an emotional one too. Joe shared his experience selling his healthcare business and how the buyers initially wanted him and his wife to stay involved, but eventually, they all realized it was best to have a clean break. He acknowledges that letting go of a business can be emotional, as owners worry about how their employees will be treated and what changes will be made When valuing a company for a reasonable exit price, Joe mentions that there is no one-size-fits-all approach. While some may use a multiple of four as a rule of thumb, every business differs. Factors such as the industry, technology, and team can significantly influence the valuation. Joe also shared insights into the process of preparing for due diligence. The potential buyers can be strategic, financial, or internal, and the preparation starts by putting together the necessary materials and working with corporate counsel. Depending on the industry, Joe either takes the company to market himself or partners with investment banking strategic partners.   Key Points from the Episode: Focus on the underserved lower middle market in exit planning Goal to bring expertise and resources to smaller businesses Typical clients are blue-collar business owners in the lower middle market Importance of maximizing business value and considering personal financial and estate planning Valuing a company for a good exit price is not one-size-fits-all Examples of transitioning ownership and the importance of clear plans and structures Psychological and emotional aspects of exiting a business What business owners typically do after exiting their businesses Potential buyers and the process of preparing for due diligence Factors influencing multiples and typical range   About Joseph Gitto: Joseph Gitto is a distinguished senior Finance, Sales, and Operational Executive, Entrepreneur, Coach, and Thought Leader, with over 25 years of remarkable achievements across various industries. As a five-time entrepreneur, he possesses invaluable expertise in assisting clients with capital acquisition, strategic planning, financial controls, and reporting. 2017 Joseph founded Blue Sky Exit Planning, providing comprehensive exit planning solutions to business owners, their families, and their professional teams. He also serves as a Board Member of the East Coast Estate Planning Council, showcasing his commitment to the field. Notably, in 2023, Joseph's expertise was recognized, and he was appointed as a Board Member and Chairman of the Audit Committee for iCoreConnect Inc. (ICCT), a leading cloud-based software and technology company. His diverse background and leadership roles make Joseph Gitto a prominent figure in business, offering valuable insights and guidance to companies and entrepreneurs alike.   About Blue Sky Exit Planning: Blue Sky Exit Planning offers a comprehensive "4 Phase Process" designed to address business owners' common challenges when preparing an Exit Plan. Many owners must avoid this crucial step due to uncertainties about the process and concerns over costs and time commitments. The Blue Sky Exit Planning process provides a clear path to maximize the value of a business during a partial or complete exit. This plan encompasses essential business, personal, financial, legal, and tax considerations in selling part or all of a privately owned company. By completing this process, business owners are better equipped to handle unplanned events, increase the overall value of their businesses, and secure financial stability for themselves and their families. With expert guidance and a structured approach, Blue Sky Exit Planning empowers business owners to navigate the complexities of exit planning and make informed decisions for their future.   Tweetable Moments: 05:51 - "It's never for the money they got, it's because they're bored or they lost their identity." 12:11 - "It is really an emotional tug, a lot of times the business part is the easier part."   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 Blue Sky Exit Planning website at https://blueskyexitplanning.com/ Check out Blue Sky Exit Planning on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-sky-exit-planning-cfo-services/ Check out Blue Sky Exit Planning on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/exitplanningservices Check out Joseph Gitto on LinkedIn at https://www.linked

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of SEO National, Damon Burton. A client's question about Google sparked Damon's foray into SEO. He offered to help them with SEO, but with a unique twist - he would only get paid once they achieved a specific benchmark. This unconventional approach was a game-changer, leading Damon to offer the same arrangement to other clients. Fast forward 17 years, Damon now runs a successful agency with a team of 60 specializing in SEO. While Damon's initial success was built on offering services for free, he has since shifted his focus. He now concentrates on giving away valuable content for free through social media and his book on SEO. According to Damon, giving value for free has been the most profitable thing he has done. It has helped him build trust and relationships with his audience, which is a testament to the power of free value. When asked about the role of AI in SEO and content creation, Damon offered a unique perspective. He views AI as an amplifier and magnifier of what was already there. If someone had a strong work ethic and integrity before AI, they would be even better with AI. However, AI would only magnify those shortcomings if someone relied on cutting corners. Damon humorously pointed out the difference between what Google says they're looking for and what they want. He believes that Google is likely working on improving AI detection to counter the abuse of content creation. However, he also cautions that Google's statements about AI usage should be taken with a grain of salt.   Key Points from the Episode: The challenges and benefits of offering services for free The role of AI in SEO and content creation Damon's perspective on AI as an amplifier and magnifier of existing qualities Damon's entrepreneurial journey and current day-to-day activities The importance of self-reflection and personal growth for Damon Damon's focus on team management and process improvement Damon's thoughts on what Google is looking for in the next year The potential improvements in AI detection by Google to counter content creation abuse   About Damon Burton: Damon Burton is a renowned search engine marketing expert whose expertise makes businesses thrive online. Over a decade ago, he achieved a remarkable feat by outranking a billion-dollar company on Google, which inspired him to establish his own international search engine marketing company. His company, SEO National, has worked with prominent clients, including NBA teams and businesses featured on Inc5000 and Shark Tank. In today's digital landscape, with increasing number of people seeking online content, Damon's knowledge is more relevant than ever. He understands that more than simply having a website is required. As a result, he has helped numerous high-profile clients drastically increase their revenue, some even earning more in a month than they previously did in a year. Damon Burton's expertise has earned him recognition as a Forbes contributor, and his accomplishments have been featured in various publications, such as Entrepreneur Magazine, BuzzFeed, and USA Weekly.   About SEO National: SEO National is a personalized and results-driven search engine optimization (SEO) company that goes beyond merely focusing on rankings. Their primary objective is to boost revenue for their clients, considering top rankings a valuable bonus. With an impressive portfolio, they have collaborated with recognized companies featured in the Inc. 500/5000 list in New York, high-profile attorneys in Florida and New Jersey, retail outlets in California, and various other businesses nationwide. At SEO National, every SEO campaign is dynamic and tailored to each client's specific goals and desired outcomes. Their approach involves creating customized strategies to increase return on investment (ROI) while keeping costs low. Their ultimate aim is to secure top placements on major search engines and provide clients with measurable progress reports to track the success of their SEO efforts.   Tweetable Moments: 07:35 - "If you had a little work ethic before AI, then you're going to have a little work ethic after AI." 16:34 - "So if you're willing to put in the time, have the patience, and it'll pay off."   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 SEO National website at https://www.seonational.com/ Check out SEO National on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/seo-national/ Check out SEO National on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/seonational/ Check out SEO National on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SEOnational Check out Damon Burton on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonburton/ Check out Damon Burton on Twitter at https://twitter.com/EntrepreneurDB Check out Damon Burton on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/entrepreneurdamon/

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder of Billable at the Beach®, Amy Rasdal. Amy Rasdal started the conversation by dispelling a common myth: consultants make less money than traditional jobs. On the contrary, she explained that consultants can earn more and significantly impact client companies. She likened consulting to being a superhero with a superpower, offering specific skills and expertise for a limited period and being paid handsomely for it. Amy stressed the importance of identifying your superpower and building relationships. She emphasized that relationships are the lifeblood of any business and suggested leveraging existing connections to generate leads and referrals. Amy pointed out that the most challenging part of consulting is selling and generating revenue. She encouraged entrepreneurs to avoid getting caught up in the minutiae and instead focus on starting with a minimum viable product (MVP) and solving a niche-specific problem based on one's background. She emphasized the value of having meaningful individual conversations with decision-makers and networking to explain one's value proposition. Amy also highlighted the significance of maintaining relationships and not burning bridges, as these connections can be valuable in the future. Amy shared her three action steps to generate revenue, available as a free email course on her website. She encourages individuals to leverage their existing relationships, including past colleagues and team members, as potential clients. Amy believes reaching out to these connections can lead to exciting opportunities and emphasizes the importance of not feeling like a burden when offering one's talents.   Key Points from the Episode: Helping people start their own six-figure consulting businesses Dispel the myth that consultants make less money Importance of identifying superpower and building relationships Starting consulting quickly with minimal resources Hardest part of consulting is selling and generating revenue Importance of starting with a minimum viable product (MVP) and solving a niche-specific problem Three action steps to generate revenue   About Amy Rasdal: Amy Rasdal is a successful consultant who made a bold career shift 15 years ago, leaving behind her corporate job for a more fulfilling path. Today, she earns more than most executives while enjoying the benefits of freedom, flexibility, and control over her work. Running her own multiple 6-figure consulting business for over a decade, Amy founded Billable at the Beach® with a mission to empower others to follow a similar path. Amy has helped countless individuals launch their thriving consulting businesses through speaking engagements, workshops, and various ten-year programs. Her program liberates 6-figure earners, enabling them to create successful consulting ventures. Amy's passion lies in guiding others toward the life of their dreams, one where they can have the freedom and flexibility they desire without sacrificing the successful careers they've built. With her expertise and experience, Amy Rasdal continues to inspire and empower others to embrace the consulting world and achieve financial and personal success.   About Billable at the Beach®: Billable at the Beach® is a highly effective program designed to help individuals establish their successful 6-figure consulting businesses. With this proven system, participants gain the means to replace their full-time income and achieve financial security while enjoying the freedom to lead a life on their terms. The program equips aspiring consultants with the necessary tools, strategies, and guidance to thrive in the consulting world and create a sustainable venture. Following the Billable at the Beach® approach, individuals can transition from traditional employment to a more fulfilling and flexible career path. Whether seeking to escape the constraints of a corporate job or looking to explore a new professional journey, this program empowers participants to embark on a rewarding and lucrative consulting business. With its focus on financial independence and work-life balance, Billable at the Beach® offers a comprehensive solution for building a thriving consulting enterprise.   Tweetable Moments: 14:42 - "Put yourself in your possible client's shoes. You're sitting there, it's Friday afternoon, you have all these things that need to get done, you're thinking, oh I need some help with this, but who would help me? Imagine if the perfect person's name happened to come across your desk in an outreach saying, hey guess what? I've left my corporate role, I'm doing consulting now. This is somebody that you know at least a little bit, you know them, you know they do great work. Would you feel like that was an imposition? No, you would be so excited to hear from that person, right?"   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podca

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Managing Partner of Vici Partners, Alec Hudnut. Alec stressed that the most crucial aspect of any company is its decision-making process, as this determines its long-term success. Vici Partners helps executives understand the value of front-line and mid-level management by teaching them how to present ideas in a way that facilitates decision-making. Vici Partners acts as a facilitator, sourcing ideas from within the company and helping clients present these ideas to executives. Their goal is to implement ideas that have been circulating within the company but have not been executed due to various reasons. Unlike traditional consulting firms that focus on providing recommendations, Vici Partners believes in the power of buy-in. They simplify consulting into a formula: the quality of the initiative multiplied by buy-in equals the value of the initiative. In other words, the success of any industry depends not only on the quality of the idea but also on the level of buy-in from the organization.   Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of Vici Partners as a management consulting firm Vici Partners' unique philosophy towards consulting Importance of buy-in and collaboration in successful implementation of initiatives Vici Partners' role as a facilitator in sourcing and presenting ideas Comparison of Vici Partners' approach to family therapy Teaching executives how to make decisions based on ideas from front line and mid-level management   About Alec Hudnut: Alec Hudnut is the Managing Partner at Vici Partners, a distinguished management consulting firm specializing in driving business growth and enhancing execution. With a team of experienced professionals, Vici Partners has achieved remarkable results for numerous clients from various industries and regions, with an impressive average earnings increase of 50% within 24 months. Alec possesses over 25 years of expertise in executive-level management and strategic consulting. He began his career as an investment banker at Goldman Sachs, later transitioning to McKinsey & Co., where he advised public companies on effective board governance practices. Subsequently, Alec held CEO roles in diverse businesses, including University Access, Evolution Robotics, and EvoRetail. Additionally, he served as the General Manager of Revenue at Green Dot Bank, overseeing a substantial $550 million prepaid card business. A graduate of Harvard Business School, Alec Hudnut's extensive experience and leadership have been instrumental in guiding companies toward substantial growth and success.   About Vici Partners: Vici Partners is a team of seasoned professionals dedicated to helping clients achieve significant improvements in execution and earnings growth. Through their proven process, they focus on reducing costs and increasing revenues, often resulting in substantial operating margin increases ranging from 300 to 1000+ basis points. The firm's expertise spans a wide array of industries, geographies, and market capitalization, enabling them to assist struggling clients in transforming their companies while aiding high-performing clients in directing resources toward profitable growth and enhanced market leadership. What sets Vici Partners apart from other consulting firms is their absence of junior consultants and their direct alignment of goals and rewards with those of their clients. They prioritize a hands-on approach, encouraging clients to learn and adapt their strategies as integral parts of their ongoing operations. Vici Partners seeks to impart their knowledge fully to clients rather than push for additional engagements. The professionals at Vici Partners boast diverse backgrounds encompassing financial services, technology, healthcare, education, government, and management consulting. Their common goal is to witness their clients achieve rapid and significant improvements in performance and morale, fostering a culture of responsible execution and continuous improvement for the long term.   Tweetable Moments: 09:37 - "The net result of our projects is the front line feels it has more voice and that the company is more profitable because of 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 Vici Partners website at https://www.vicipartners.com/ Check out Vici Partners on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/vici-capital-partner-llc/ Check out Vici Partners on Twitter at https://twitter.com/PartnersVici/media Check out Alec Hudnut on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/alec-hudnut-8562071/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO and Founder of The Polite Company, Kristi Spencer. Kristi Spencer passionately spoke about the importance of using etiquette for good and not for negative purposes. She acknowledged that some people may have had bad experiences with etiquette, being chastised or embarrassed by others. As a leader, I asked Christy how to address rude behavior in a respectful and non-confrontational way. Christy suggested using a five-step process to approach such situations, emphasizing the importance of considering who the feedback is coming from and building trust with a designated "buddy" who can provide honest feedback. Kristi's company is a beacon in the world of etiquette training, focusing on teaching essential business etiquette skills. The Polite Company covers a wide range of 'adulting' aspects, from job interviews and dining etiquette to social media and professionalism. The ultimate goal? To help individuals and organizations thrive in their respective fields. She highlighted vital areas, such as knowing when to hit "reply all" or "reply" in email communication and setting ground rules for shared spaces, like office refrigerators or shared desk spaces. Interestingly, Kristi pointed out that the COVID-19 pandemic has renewed the focus on etiquette, especially in virtual meetings. Kristi emphasized the importance of adapting to different communication preferences and frequencies among different generations. She also acknowledged that virtual environments can lead to miscommunication and advised maintaining professionalism even when working from home.   Key Points from the Episode: Overview of the services provided by The Polite Company (business etiquette training) Common etiquette issues addressed in training (email communication, shared spaces, virtual meetings) Discussion on generational differences in communication etiquette Significance of appearances in virtual meetings Using etiquette for positive purposes and addressing rude behavior Confusion around certain etiquette practices (tipping in the workplace) Offerings of The Polite Company (individual coaching, business coaching, educational coaching)   About Kristi Spencer: Kristi Spencer is a renowned etiquette instructor, and journalist known for her expertise in helping individuals and businesses present their best selves to the world. With a remarkable career spanning over two decades in TV newsrooms, she founded The Polite Company, offering personalized, in-person, and online etiquette training services. A certified etiquette trainer and Emily Post Institute graduate, Kristi emphasizes that etiquette is not about rote rules but rather about fostering strong relationships built on consideration, respect, and honesty. She is a vocal advocate for workplace civility and professionalism, frequently sought after by media outlets for her expert opinions on etiquette matters. Through her dedication to teaching the art of etiquette, Kristi Spencer has positively impacted countless individuals and organizations, making her a prominent figure in the field and an invaluable resource for those seeking to enhance their social and professional interactions.   About The Polite Company: The Polite Company is a dedicated platform that emphasizes the significance of etiquette in personal and professional spheres. Committed to fostering lasting relationships and creating positive impressions, they offer various resources and courses for individuals seeking to enhance their etiquette skills. Whether you are a beginner or wish to refine your existing knowledge, The Polite Company provides in-person and online courses, workshops, and one-on-one coaching sessions to cater to your needs. With their passion for teaching and understanding the impact of etiquette, The Polite Company is a valuable destination for anyone looking to elevate their social and professional interactions.   Tweetable Moments: 08:52 - "Well, I think that we are all born wanting some sort of acceptance and affirmation, so to just say you absolutely don't care, don't buy it because we're just kind of hardwired to want acceptance and want to be part of a group." 11:26 - "some people have had a bad experience with etiquette and some people, you know, they've been chastised for something that they said, they've been embarrassed about something that they've done, somebody has taken what they know and used it poorly against that person to make them feel less than."   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 Polite Company website at https://www.thepolitecompany.com/ Check out The Polite Company on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thepolitecompanykristi/ Check out The Polite Company on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thepolitecompanykristi/ Check out Kristi Spencer on Linked

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO and Founder of Lone Fir Creative, Tyler Pigott. Tyler started the conversation by emphasizing the importance of meeting clients where they are. He pointed out that brands that try to do everything are not winning anymore. Instead, the key to success lies in being specific about the problem you solve for clients. He stressed the need to define and hone in on your brand's message and then roll that message across all digital and physical properties. This approach ensures that potential clients receive relevant content, as sending them to something irrelevant will yield little success. Tyler also touched on the changing dynamics of trust in the business world. He noted that while trust in larger brands has diminished, trust in individual humans still exists. Therefore, building trust around personalities and amplifying their stories is crucial. He concluded this part of our discussion by stating that adjusting expectations and recognizing that building relationships take time is essential. Blasting everyone with sales messages is ineffective in today's noisy and competitive market. Instead, it's necessary to earn the right to engage with potential clients through value-added touchpoints.   Key Points from the Episode: Importance of meeting clients where they are and having a specific focus in HubSpot Being specific about the problem you solve for clients Defining and honing in on your brand's message Sending relevant content to potential clients Building trust around personalities and amplifying their stories Adjusting expectations and recognizing that building relationships takes time Lone Fir Creative's niche in the edtech space Helping companies fully utilize the HubSpot platform   About Tyler Pigott: Tyler Pigott is a seasoned professional with a diverse marketing, communications, and sales background spanning over two decades. As the founder and CEO of Lone Fir Creative, a digital marketing agency, he has honed his expertise in driving business growth through innovative strategies. Alongside his entrepreneurial endeavors, Tyler has become a sought-after business coach and a compelling speaker. With a genuine passion for supporting fellow business leaders, Tyler offers invaluable insights to propel their ideas forward. Notably, his ability to blend analytical thinking with creative problem-solving has rapidly implemented new and effective strategies. He has successfully built a thriving all-remote business as a testament to his skill and adaptability. Tyler Pigott's impressive track record and dedication to empowering others make him highly regarded in marketing and business communities.   About Lone Fir Creative: Lone Fir Creative is a dynamic team of business-minded creatives who profoundly understand marketing's true purpose: achieving ambitious revenue targets and fostering brand growth. As a digital marketing agency, Lone Fir Creative leverages its expertise to craft innovative strategies that drive tangible results for businesses. With a keen eye on the bottom line, the agency approaches marketing as a strategic tool, aiming to generate meaningful returns on investment for its clients. By combining creativity and analytical thinking, Lone Fir Creative ensures that each marketing initiative is captivating and compelling, resonating with target audiences while delivering measurable success. With a focus on helping businesses thrive and achieve their goals, Lone Fir Creative has earned a reputation as a reliable and results-oriented partner in the competitive landscape of modern marketing.   Tweetable Moments: 04:22 - "I think it's important to recognize just that it's changed and so you do have to earn that relationship which then takes time." 11:38 - "We've been writing content for years, so there's a lot of content on there."   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 Lone Fir Creative website at https://www.lonefircreative.com/ Check out Lone Fir Creative on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/lone-fir-creative/ Check out Tyler Pigott on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerpigott/ Check out Tyler Pigott on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/tylerpigott/ Check out Tyler Pigott on Twitter at https://twitter.com/tylerpigott Check out Tyler Pigott on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/tylerpigott Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Executive Officer and Founder of Xevant, Brandon Newman. Brandon Newman shared the challenges he faced when trying to afford his medications while providing for his family. He pointed out that around 10-15% of Americans struggle with the high costs of diabetes medications. He emphasized the importance of automation and real-time analysis in identifying opportunities to reduce costs and prevent the industry from breaking. Brandon shed light on the complexities of the healthcare industry, the escalating costs of medications, and the urgent need for affordable healthcare. He explained that Xevant's primary focus is to optimize pharmacy benefits for large healthcare companies. While this may not sound particularly thrilling, it's a critical aspect of healthcare dealing with trends, expenses, and drug access. Xevant's mission is to help consumers reduce costs by providing access to lower-cost drugs, appropriate medications, and hidden benefits like rebates. They collaborate with employers, pharmacy benefit managers, health plans, and consultants to navigate the labyrinth of pharmacy benefits and optimize costs for the end payer. Brandon highlighted that the healthcare industry is shifting towards the pharmacy as the focal point, with high-cost specialty drugs and personalized drug development becoming more prevalent. Xevant is at the forefront of this shift, combining innovation and automation to provide real-time analysis and help patients find the most cost-effective and suitable medications. The importance of access to affordable healthcare cannot be overstated, as it directly impacts people's health and quality of life. Brandon's experience with a health diagnosis fueled his motivation to create Savant and improve access to medication and healthcare.   Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of what Xevant does as a data analytics company Importance of pharmacy benefits in healthcare and the need for optimization Xevant's goal of reducing costs and providing access to lower-cost drugs Collaboration with employers, pharmacy benefit managers, health plans, and consultants Shifting focus of the healthcare industry towards pharmacy and specialty drugs Use of innovation and automation for real-time analysis and cost-effective medications Personal motivation behind creating Xevant and improving access to healthcare Challenges faced by Americans in affording medications, particularly for diabetes   About Brandon Newman: Brandon Newman is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience spearheading businesses focused on growth, revenue, and sales performance. He has excelled in diverse environments, from startups to turnarounds, and has successfully managed businesses worth over $1 billion. As a serial entrepreneur, he boasts a proven track record of establishing and propelling new ventures to success through acquisitions, mergers, or roll-ups, as seen with ScripPoint, Veridian, and AviaraMD. Notably, Brandon Newman is the driving force behind Xevant, where he leads the company's vision, devises new market strategies, fosters revenue growth, oversees technology development, and forms strategic partnerships. His expertise and leadership have been pivotal in the company's continuous expansion and innovation. With his wealth of experience and accomplishments, Brandon Newman remains a prominent figure in the business world, inspiring and influencing growth in various industries.   About Xevant: Xevant is a groundbreaking pharmacy benefits platform that employs real-time automation to streamline and expedite the data analysis process for PBMs, TPAs, Health Plans, Brokers, and Consultants. By automating report building and providing automated alerts to monitor plan performance, Xevant significantly simplifies and accelerates critical pharmacy analysis that previously took weeks or even months. This revolutionary approach empowers users to take immediate action, resulting in optimized business processes, reduced operating costs, and improved patient outcomes. The platform's efficiency and innovation have earned Xevant prestigious accolades, including recognition as the Best Place to Work in Healthcare by Modern Healthcare and being ranked as the No. 1 Fastest Growing Private Software Company in the U.S. on the 2022 Inc. 5000 list. With its transformative technology, Xevant continues to profoundly impact the healthcare industry, enhancing decision-making and efficiency for all stakeholders involved.   Tweetable Moments: 09:14 - "If you don't have your health, you have nothing." 15:18 - "When I finally decided to let go and trust and truly empower a team, all of a sudden magic happened."   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 Xevant website at https://www.xevant.com/ Check out Xevant on Li

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to Business Coach & Consultant, John Munn. John's journey began in college, where he started a brewery to make money. However, he soon realized that money alone didn't bring happiness. This realization led him to transition into running businesses for less than ten hours a week, and he began helping others do the same. When asked how he spends his free time, John explained that it varies for each person. For him, it's about spending time with his family and pursuing hobbies like gardening. The key, he emphasized, is to ensure that the time spent is on things that genuinely make a difference and bring happiness. He discussed the contrast between the hustle mentality of working long hours to make money and John's approach to finding what truly makes you happy. John explained that both approaches aim to achieve happiness but in different ways. He encourages people to focus on the tasks with high leverage and drive the most results while eliminating or delegating less important tasks. When asked what leaders may undervalue in their week-to-week schedule, John emphasized the importance of valuing and prioritizing time. He pointed out that many business owners don't factor their time into their costs and fail to consider how they spend their time.   Key Points from the Episode: Importance of spending time on things that bring happiness and make a difference Contrast between hustle mentality and finding true happiness Advice on reducing workload and improving workflow Importance of tracking time and eliminating unnecessary tasks Undervaluing time in week-to-week schedules Working with service-based businesses to become independent of the founder Resources available on John JD Munn's website, including the Time Sense Toolkit Identifying and reducing time sucks, such as social media addiction   About John Munn: John Munn is a renowned time optimization expert who empowers entrepreneurs by helping them work less and achieve more. With a remarkable track record of transforming individuals from overwhelming 70+ hour workweeks to a fulfilling 20-hour schedule, John specializes in guiding 6-figure+ entrepreneurs to attain exceptional results while reducing their workload significantly. His achievements as a multi-award-winning entrepreneur include successfully managing diverse businesses, notably the world's first ancient alcohol brewery and an environmental, social enterprise. Drawing from his entrepreneurial experiences, John offers practical tips and strategies that enable his audience to optimize their time, enhance productivity, and foster sustainable business growth. With John's guidance, entrepreneurs can master the art of efficiency, strike a harmonious work-life balance, and unlock the full potential of their ventures to thrive in today's competitive landscape.   Tweetable Moments: 04:32 - "What would you do with the time if you only had to work 10 to 20 hours a week? What would you do with your free time? It's probably different to what I would do, you know?" 12:59 - "That is what's massively undervalued here."   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 John Munn website at https://www.johnjdmunn.com/ Check out John Munn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnjdmunn/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

On this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Peter Christian Books, Peter Christian. Peter Christian knows why businesses and managers at all levels succeed. He uses that knowledge, working closely to assist them in increasing their success and achieving their goals. In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with Author, Speaker, Adjunct Professor and Business Consultant to Middle and Executive Management Peter Christian.   Peter Chritian’s first book, "What About the Vermin Problem?", is a treasure trove of experiences from his time as a consultant. The book underscores the importance of the choices we make and how they can steer our journey towards success or failure. Peter emphasized that even the most minor shifts in discipline, attitude, or action can profoundly impact the outcome of any situation. He firmly believes these lessons are not confined to the business world but can be applied to various aspects of life. After being encouraged by a colleague, Peter penned his second book, which delves into the factors influencing our decisions and actions. He discusses how different people in our lives, such as bosses, coworkers, and executives, can both positively and negatively impact us. Peter stressed the importance of acknowledging and thanking those who have been helpful, while also being wary of those who may not have our best interests at heart. He believes that these influences mold how we think and act throughout our lives, and that continuous learning from these experiences is crucial. While Peter's books were primarily written for the business world, he believes they also have real-life applications. He discussed the importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives to work effectively with others. Peter also highlighted the significance of mentoring and guiding others to help them grow and succeed. He shared his experience as a consultant and mentor, and how he helps individuals and organizations improve their productivity and processes.   Key Points from the Episode: Importance of understanding and appreciating different perspectives for effective collaboration The significance of supporting roles in organizations, such as sales, marketing, and manufacturing The importance of mentoring and guiding others for growth and success Peter's experience as a consultant and mentor, helping individuals and organizations improve productivity and processes   About Peter Christian: Peter Christian is an accomplished business consultant and executive with a wealth of experience. As a founding partner and president of espi, a business consulting firm in Northeastern PA, he has worked with over 300 clients, providing expertise in areas such as business development, profit improvement, operations, information systems selection and implementation, and project management. With a career spanning over 40 years, Peter has excelled in strategic and facility planning, continuous improvement, lean manufacturing, and supply chain management. During his tenure at Crayola Corporation, where he held various positions including executive roles, Peter played a pivotal role in the company's remarkable 700% growth over 17 years. Since then, he has worked with a wide range of companies, from small enterprises to Fortune 100 companies, helping managers achieve personal growth while driving cost reductions, increasing profitability, and saving and creating thousands of jobs. Peter is also a bestselling author on Amazon, having written the acclaimed books "What About the Vermin Problem?" and "Influences and Influencers." His expertise is further shared through contributions to professional magazines and as a speaker at conferences, webinars, and podcasts. Notable speaking engagements include Lehigh University, Rutgers University, and various industry-specific organizations and events. As an active consultant, Peter specializes in project management, leadership development, operational strategic planning, continuous improvement methodologies, facility planning, and supply chain optimization. He continues to offer his expertise and practical problem-solving approach to individuals, manufacturers, and consumer goods businesses seeking to thrive in today's competitive market.   Tweetable Moments: 13:52, "More people need to understand that. If you're not moving product and selling product and coming up with new product and making it and shipping it and all that stuff, the rest of it really doesn't matter at that point."   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 Peter Christian website at https://petechristianbooks.com/ Check out Peter Christian on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/peter-christian-2723b69/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Owner of Bambiz Marketing, Jim Blake. Jim Blake delved into the unique marketing challenges faced by elder law attorneys. Unlike other areas of law where billboards and flashy advertisements may work, elder law and estate planning require a different approach. Jim explained that their marketing strategy focuses on triggering thoughts in potential clients' minds when they are online, unknowingly scrolling through their feed. They use content, such as webinars, to provide valuable information and engage with potential clients. One of the key insights Jim shared was the importance of following up with potential clients after registering for an event. He explained that the success of a live event is measured by the percentage of registered attendees who show up. For webinars, a 50-60% attendance rate is considered successful. Jim emphasized the need for personal engagement, suggesting that someone from the firm should thank registered attendees for signing up and inquire about their specific questions or concerns. This keeps them engaged and increases the likelihood of their attendance. Bambiz Marketing provides free resources on its website, such as podcasts, ebooks, webinars, and training videos, to assist attorneys in their marketing efforts. Jim believes that by providing valuable resources, they can potentially reach a wider network through referrals. He also mentioned that Bambiz Marketing is transparent about its pricing and encourages potential clients to explore its website and utilize the available tools and resources.   Key Points from the Episode: Bambiz Marketing specializes in helping elder law and estate planning law firms with online marketing Jim's background and how he got into working with elder law attorneys Unique marketing challenges faced by elder law attorneys Marketing approach focused on triggering thoughts in potential clients' minds through online content Shift to webinars due to the impact of the pandemic Importance of following up with potential clients after they register for an event Bambiz Marketing provides free resources on their website to assist attorneys in their marketing efforts Transparency about pricing and encouraging potential clients to explore their website and utilize available tools and resources   About Jim Blake: Jim Blake, a seasoned marketer and entrepreneur, is the CEO and founder of Bambiz Marketing, a digital marketing company targeting Elder Law and Estate Planning law firms. Inspired by numerous legal conferences, he recognized a specific need for tailored digital marketing services in this niche. Under Blake's stewardship since 2016, Bambiz offers a comprehensive suite of services, including social media marketing, SEO, website design, and more, becoming a leading provider in this sector. Blake's dedicated, hands-on approach and decade-long marketing expertise enable him to address unique marketing challenges. law firms face, assisting them in achieving their goals. He is a former top performer at Bridgestone Tires and a recipient of the esteemed ClickFunnels Two Comma Club award for generating over $1 million in sales. A believer in work-life balance, Blake enjoys helping attorneys achieve the same. He is an avid runner, completing 35 marathons across three continents, and enjoys travel, local coffee shops, and business literature. He cherishes time spent with his family.   About Bambiz Marketing: Bambiz is a distinct digital marketing company specializing exclusively in serving elder law and estate planning attorneys, allowing them a profound understanding of their clients' everyday challenges. The company aims to alleviate the central struggle of these attorneys, which is continuous client acquisition. Bambiz's system empowers clients to concentrate on their core competencies while the company takes charge of optimizing their marketing for steady client inflow. Their strategy includes online advertising, high-converting landing pages, automated email systems, and engaging e-newsletters. They strive to eliminate inefficient marketing practices, saving their clients' time and resources. Their motto, "Enough is enough," reflects their commitment to implementing a change in their client's marketing strategies, replacing unproductive methods with effective ones. Above all, Bambiz's primary goal is to ensure the success of its clients, encouraging them to embrace new and more efficient marketing approaches. Their unique focus and dedication have set them apart in digital marketing.   Tweetable Moments: 07:43 - "Our marketing for these law firms kind of changes the legacies for people, families all over the country. We can help thousands, tens of thousands of families by working with hundreds of law firms and doing this for them." 13:27 - "I don't want to practice law, I want to do marketing."   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: htt

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Director of Written Progress, Megan Mayzelle. Megan Mayzelle's journey into the climate sector was born from her background in climate and community development and strong writing skills. She started as a freelancer, providing written documentation to organizations in the climate sector to secure funding, attract talent, and influence policy. As the demand for her services grew, she established Written Progress. Today, her team of experts, armed with scientific understanding and communication skills, serves clients by writing grant proposals, policy briefs, academic manuscripts, and more. Megan shed light on the ecosystem of companies focused on climate action. She explained that the climate sector, like any other industry, encompasses various skill sets and job roles, including salespeople, product managers, coders, managers, and writers. The common thread among these professionals is their mission alignment to address climate issues. Megan noted a growing trend of businesses, like Written Progress, working with clients focused on climate missions. Megan's organization has worked with diverse clients, from global entities like the World Bank and United Nations to small startups like Green River. Written Progress offers various services, including writing policy briefs, grant proposals, articles, and research reports.   Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of Written Progress' support for climate organizations through written documentation Megan's background in climate and community development and her establishment of Written Progress Discussion on the ecosystem of companies focused on climate action Mention of clients such as the World Bank, United Nations, and Green River Range of services offered by Written Progress Importance of individuals and organizations taking action to address social and environmental issues Need for collective effort and a shift in mindset to solve complex problems   About Megan Mayzelle: Megan Mayzelle is a trailblazing individual from West Virginia, USA, and a first-generation college graduate. She has turned her lifelong aspiration of living abroad into a reality by establishing Written Progress. This pioneering organization comprises a team of technical communicators who work remotely and cater to social and environmental justice professionals. Written Progress specializes in handling daunting documents such as grant applications, policy briefs, and academic manuscripts on behalf of their clients. Their expertise lies in crafting captivating written content that excites funders, policymakers, and top talent, thus propelling their clients' ethical impacts to new heights. Moreover, besides their document services, Written Progress facilitates "writeshops" to empower individuals to build their skill sets. Notably, the organization is developing a software tool that will aid climate professionals in identifying and responding to the often intricate co-benefits and co-risks associated with their work. Megan Mayzelle's journey exemplifies ambition, innovation, and a commitment to positively impacting the world of social and environmental justice through Written Progress.   About Written Progress: Written Progress is a groundbreaking organization that addresses the needs of carbon management organizations, corporations, social enterprises, and non-profits working towards solving the climate crisis. With over 700 carbon management organizations alone, there is a pressing demand for adequate documentation to secure funding, attract talent, establish theses, and influence policy. The individuals leading energy and climate projects face numerous responsibilities and often need more uninterrupted time for deep work. Furthermore, their expertise in complex knowledge makes it challenging to convey their messages to a broader audience. Written Progress provides a solution by combining the technical proficiency of a sustainability consultant with the journalistic skills necessary to translate key messages effectively. By taking on the burden of writing, the organization allows clients to focus on their core responsibilities while ensuring their proposals, policy briefs, communication strategies, white papers, academic manuscripts, and research reports are transformed into exceptional pieces. The outcome is a network of funders, policymakers, and stakeholders ready to amplify the climate impacts of Written Progress' clients. The organization has a proven track record of securing millions of dollars in funding through well-crafted proposals and assisting clients in optimizing their communication strategies for maximum impact. Clients often begin their journey with Written Progress by enhancing existing materials. Still, they also trust the organization to research and produce original policy briefs, investment cases, academic articles, and white papers. Written Progress enables