In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; President of Accelerated Intelligence Inc. &amp; Podcastcola, Shaahin Cheyene.  Shaahin Cheyene is a dynamic entrepreneur who has made significant strides in various industries, including the supplement industry, digital vaporization, and selling on Amazon. However, his recent focus has been on podcasting, a platform with exponential growth. Shaahin shared his journey of starting a company to help people get booked on podcasts. He realized that there was a specific algorithm for getting booked, and by systemizing the process, he saw a dramatic increase in his bookings. As his reputation grew, he started getting requests from others who wanted to use his services. Initially, Shaahin wasn't planning on doing it for anyone else, but he decided to try it for a couple of others, and it turned out to be a success. Since then, his business has grown strictly through podcasts and word of mouth. Shaahin compares his podcast booking service to the real estate market in Malibu. He mentions how people might view a "for sale by owner" sign in a neighborhood where houses are worth millions of dollars. It's seen as an amateur and raises questions about the house's quality and the seller's. Shaheen emphasizes the value of professionals and having a reputable agency behind you. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Shaahin's impact in various industries and focus on podcasting Discussion on the power of podcasting as a marketing tool Podcasting as a platform for thought leaders and experts Shaheen's journey of starting a podcast booking company Comparison of podcast booking service to the real estate market Offering free 15-minute consultations for potential clients Selectivity in choosing clients based on their message and potential for profitability Mention of Shaahin's upcoming book, "Podcast Famous" &nbsp; About Shaahin Cheyene: Shaahin Cheyene is a highly accomplished entrepreneur known for his innovative spirit. Born during the Iranian Revolution, he migrated to Los Angeles, creating a billion-dollar business at age 15, inventing the 'Herbal Ecstasy' smart drug. Shaahin also pioneered digital vaporization, a precursor to modern vaping.   <span style="font-weight:...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Co-Founder &amp; CEO of 2xYou, Le-an Lai Lacaba. Le-an Lai Lacaba, with her expertise in AI, provided some insightful answers if merging AI with virtual assistant services could be a game-changer. 2xYou, she explained, focuses on using AI tools like ChatGPT to automate tasks and provide expertise in AI. They have trained their virtual assistants to integrate these AI tools with their client's businesses, particularly in content-related tasks like email management, generating content, and social media. When asked about the advantages of working with 2xYou instead of hiring domestically, Le-an highlighted their rigorous selection process. 2xYou screens and selects top candidates, customize them for the business, and provides training and management support. They also help build the structure of the client's businesses, including content strategy, customer relations database, and other assets. Interestingly, many clients who approach 2xYou want to sell their businesses in the future. 2xYou helps build the necessary structure for acquisition, making them a valuable partner for business owners with an exit strategy. Le-an mentioned that 2xYou offers a full-time executive assistant plus two services for $3,000 monthly. She emphasized that they provide highly trained assistants and a team behind them, distinguishing them from cheap virtual assistants found on the internet. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Discussion on merging AI with virtual assistant services Focus of 2xYou on using AI tools like ChatGPT to automate tasks and provide expertise in AI Advantages of working with 2xYou instead of hiring domestically 2xYou's role in building the structure of clients' businesses, including content strategy and customer relations database Assistance provided by 2xYou in social media management and other tasks Process of getting help with social media and blogging, including the Two Minute Readiness Scorecard and onboarding kit Budget for 2xYou services, including a full-time executive assistant plus two services for $3,000 per month Recommendation to visit 2xYou's website and fill out the scorecard for more information Determining if someone is ready for an assistant and the need for a full-time assistant &nbsp; About Le-An Lai Lacaba: Le-an Lai Lacaba, a pioneering remote work advocate, launched her career as an online content creator at just 15. Born into a Filipino family accustomed to overseas work for better wages, Le-an revolutionized this narrative through her digital skills, leveraging opportunities for earning at a global standard without leaving her homeland. Her experience surviving Category 5 Typhoon Haiyan at 18 led to a dramatic life pivot, propelling her from law to entrepreneurship. Le-an's tenacity found her relocating to a new city and landing a job as a book editor for a US publishing company. By 20, she led the company as its remote CEO, displaying her passion for entrepreneurship and operational efficiency. This led her to co-found 2xYou; a venture focused on creating remote jobs for Filipinos. Under her leadership, 2xYou received the Silver Stevie Award for Employer of the Year 2021, recognizing their excellent training and development for virtual assistants. Currently, Le-an is growing 2xYou as a business operating system, delivering clients a structured, high-performance workspace. Her mission is to help 10,000 entrepreneurs scale remotely, enabling 1 million Filipinos to work from home and reducing family separation caused by overseas employment. &nbsp; 2xYou: 2xYou, established in 2018, is a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Managing Director, Business Coach &amp; Executive of ActioncCOACH Solent, Kevin Stansfield.Kevin is a seasoned financial director and business coach specializing in transforming businesses into profitable, sustainable entities. His experience in growing companies significantly and improving work-life balance for business owners is invaluable. Kevin's track record includes a £34 million growth and a £15 million sale.&nbsp;Kevin's insights and strategies could prove essential if you're an entrepreneur seeking to optimize your business operations. His coaching extends beyond your expertise, covering crucial areas like team management, financial monitoring, marketing, and strategic planning.&nbsp;About Kevin Stansfield:&nbsp;Kevin, a highly experienced financial director, has dedicated his career to preventing entrepreneurs from becoming slaves to their businesses. After witnessing his father's business consume his life, he pledged to help others avoid the same fate. Using his expertise, he's driven significant growth in several companies, including scaling a company from £2M to £36M and aiding another in achieving a £15M sale.&nbsp;For the past 16 years, he has assisted over 300 business owners to improve their work-life balance while boosting profits. Stansfield is also a published author, with three books offering insights into optimal business management strategies.About ActionCOACH Solent:&nbsp;ActionCOACH Solent, part of the globally renowned ActionCOACH team, is a premier business coaching firm based in South Hampshire that supports local businesses to grow profitably. &nbsp;With an ambitious goal to boost their clients' revenues by £50 million, profits by £10 million, and team members by 500 over the next five years, they focus on equipping business owners with necessary skills beyond their core expertise. These skills include effective team management, marketing, PR, customer service, and financial understanding. ActionCOACH also aids in strategic planning, helping business owners to envision and plan for a successful future. Their coaching methodology empowers owners to work ON their business rather than solely IN it, fostering sustainable growth, control, and balance. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:&nbsp;https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out ActionCOACH Solent website at&nbsp;https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/actioncoach-solent-8053907454Check out ActionCOACH Solent on LinkedIn at&nbsp;https://www.linkedin.com/company/actioncoach-business-coaching-solent/Check out Kevin Stansfield on LinkedIn at&nbsp;https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstansfield/Check out Kevin Stansfield on Facebook at&nbsp;https://www.facebook.com/kevin.stansfieldDon’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 Business Growth Strategist of Top Talent Agency, Richard Kaye. Dr. Richard Kaye is a man of many talents. He's not only a retired chiropractor but also a master negotiator and publicity expert. He has dedicated his life to helping people grow their businesses and accelerate their bottom line by securing fantastic publicity. He shared a personal story of using publicity to stand out as a chiropractor and become the most recognizable name in his field. His company guarantees results, such as best-selling books and media coverage, emphasizing the power of publicity in building credibility. When asked about the principles he recommends for someone looking to be recognized and stand out ahead of their peers, Dr. Richard Kaye was clear: it's not about what you do, but what's in it for them. He advises pitching to show hosts and media outlets by focusing on what the audience will get from it. He also emphasized the importance of targeting the right audience and finding the producers or decision-makers to pitch to. In the era of Zoom meetings and virtual appearances, being articulate in your pitch and attentive and engaged during media appearances is more crucial than ever. Dr. Richard Kaye also shared tips on reaching out to producers and constructing compelling pitches. He emphasized the importance of building authentic relationships with producers and focusing on serving their audience. He advised against bombarding talent with requests, as they often redirect such inquiries to their team. However, if a genuine human-to-human relationship is formed, it can lead to opportunities. One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the significance of making the host and producer look good. Dr. Richard Kaye suggests complimenting them and expressing gratitude for the opportunity. He also recommends sending a handwritten thank-you card to stand out. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Dr. Richard Kaye's impact and work in the world today The power of publicity in building credibility and growing businesses Principles for gaining recognition and standing out in the media Importance of focusing on what the audience will get out of it in pitches Targeting the right audience and finding decision-makers to pitch to Being articulate and engaged during media appearances Building authentic relationships with producers Making the host and producer look good Small gestures like sending a thank-you card Next steps for gaining publicity, such as becoming a best-selling author and appearing on national television &nbsp; About Richard Kaye: Dr. Richard is a business growth expert who has dedicated 24 years to coaching entrepreneurs, aiding them in their journey from startup to established businesses. A distinguished speaker, he frequently graces podcasts, webinars, and radio and TV programs, including KGTV and KTLA. His global influence is reflected through his workshops in Australia, France, Japan, Russia, and the USA. The architect of 'The Secrets of Empowering Negotiation' program, he's shared platforms with renowned figures like Lisa Nichols and Les Brown. He was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Top Talent Agency. Besides, his social engagements include involvement with a United Nations NGO and other for-profit boards. He's also a founding member of the Taos Entrepreneurial Network and ex-vice president of CEO Space. His acclaimed book, 'The Secrets of Creating Customers for Life', showcases his expertise....

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Mindset &amp; High Performance Strategist, Byron Morrison. Byron Morrison is not just an ordinary guest. He is a professional who has dedicated his life to helping others navigate their personal and professional lives. His work primarily involves working with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, equipping them with the mindset and skills to make better decisions and confidently lead. He also talked about overcoming fear by not being too hard on oneself and needing self-compassion. We often dwell on past mistakes, but Byron encourages shifting focus from dwelling on these to learning from them and implementing changes for the future. Byron shared his insights on how to prevent and recover from burnout. He highlighted three key factors: reconnecting with purpose, developing the right routines, and setting boundaries.Remembering why you started and finding what excites you can help reconnect with your purpose. Prioritizing your health and finding balance through the right routines is also crucial. Lastly, knowing when to take time off and step back is essential in setting boundaries. Byron also touched on the arbitrary nature of self-imposed deadlines and the need to delegate tasks effectively. He advises leaders to identify their zone of genius and delegate tasks outside of it. Clear communication and understanding with the person they are delegating to is also vital. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Discussion about Byron Morrison's professional work Conversation about his book, "Maybe You Should Give Up" Exploration of the concept of giving up on obstacles to achieve goals Conversation about overcoming fear and taking action Discussion about being too hard on oneself and the importance of self-compassion Conversation about burnout and thethree factors to prevent and recover from burnout: reconnecting with purpose, developing the right routines, and setting boundaries Shifting focus from dwelling on past mistakes to learning and implementing changes for the future Advice for leaders on delegation and avoiding becoming a bottleneck in the business &nbsp; About Byron Morrison: Byron is a renowned author of three best-selling books and an international consultant who aids CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders reclaim control over their lives and businesses. His transformation journey began following his father's cancer diagnosis, during which he lost 50 pounds and overcame self-sabotage that affected his health, relationships, and success. This experience propelled him to help others surmount their obstacles, a mission he's pursued for over a decade across 15 countries. Morrison’s latest book, “Maybe You Should Give Up: 7 Ways to Get Out of Your Own Way and Take Control of Your Life,” encapsulates his work and experience and will be available in stores in June. His life and work underscore the powerful potential of personal transformation. &nbsp; Tweetable Moments: 04:16, "It's all about recognizing where it's coming from and then giving up the control that has over you." 10:31, "It's not dwelling on things that can't be undone." 18:54, "We believe that every person has a message that can positively impact the world." &nbsp; 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 Byron Morrison website at <a href="https://www.byronmorrison.com/"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; CEO of BOSS Startup Science, Gregory Shepard. According to Gregory, bad decisions are the number one reason for startup failure. However, he explains that bad advice is the root cause of these bad decisions. Surprisingly, the main contributors to lousy advice are investors and mentors. This is attributed to investors needing firsthand experience as founders and mentors needing to understand the specific needs of each business. Investors may give advice based on their experience working with founders, but with a deep understanding of the operations and details of the business, their advice can be beneficial. For instance, they may push founders to raise money or focus on valuation without considering the long-term consequences. Similarly, mentors who have had success in the past may need more expertise to provide relevant and practical advice for current market conditions. To address this issue, Gregory suggests a model similar to the medical field, where general practitioners refer patients to specialists for specific diagnoses and treatments. In the business world, it is essential to seek advice from specialists who deeply understand the particular challenges a founder is facing. Shepherd emphasizes the importance of teaching founders the necessary skills and knowledge so that they can navigate their entrepreneurial journey independently. However, mentors are still valuable in providing context and guidance. For example, if a founder takes a course on valuation, they will understand how valuation works and be able to defend themselves to an investor. Conversely, mentors can help founders along this learning journey by understanding how they have learned valuation. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Common reasons for startup failure Bad decisions as the number one reason for failure Investors and mentors as main contributors of bad advice Lack of firsthand experience as founders and understanding of specific business needs Importance of seeking advice from specialists Resources and courses offered by Startup Science Tools such as grant finder and investor network Teaching founders necessary skills and knowledge Openness to suggestions and advice from mentors and interested individuals &nbsp; About Gregory Shepard: Gregory is a highly experienced serial entrepreneur, having completed 14 liquidity events, including two notable transactions contributing to a $925M deal that won four PE awards for deals between $250M-$1B. Known for his strategic insights, he's a ForbesBooks author with over 100 articles published in national and international outlets. Shepard is also a TEDx and keynote speaker at numerous universities, associations, and conferences globally. As the host of Meet The BOSS on Forbes Radio, he shares his expertise widely and is a regular guest on popular podcasts, TV and radio shows. Co-founding BOSS Capital Partners, where he facilitates global investments in tech startups. Moreover, through BOSSStartupScience, he provides entrepreneurs with resources and guidance via his Business Operating Support System (BOSS), an open source methodology designed to improve startup success rates. &nbsp; About BOSS Startup Science: BOSS Startup Science aims to improve the success rate of startups, given that the current 90% failure rate is disheartening. The CEO, Greg Shepard, believes that education, connections, and assistance are crucial to helping founders succeed. Their mission is to support startups in achieving success, focusing on one founder at a time. This endeavor is fueled...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Vice President of Find Your Audience, Nathan Yeung. Nathan isn’t your-typical marketing professional. As a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), he and his team serve as a plug-and-play marketing team for various clients, from national franchises to large B2B enterprises and venture capital and private equity firms. Unlike traditional agencies, Nathan's team doesn't just provide strategic advice. They also execute marketing strategies. This dual role allows them to be more involved and hands-on with their client's businesses. As Nathan explained, one of the key differences between hiring a fractional CMO and a traditional agency is the focus. A fractional CMO focuses on high-level strategic planning and identifying white space in the market. In contrast, agencies focus more on tactical execution based on the client's specific needs or ideas. When asked about growing his own business, Nathan acknowledged the challenge of finding time to work on the enterprise while being busy working on it. He revealed that most of his business comes from referrals, which he strategically cultivates through distribution partners. Nathan also mentioned the importance of content creation and being a guest on podcasts to increase visibility and generate leads. However, he avoids cold emailing due to the sensitivity of marketing services to such approaches. Instead, he encourages interested individuals to reach out to him directly. &nbsp; Key Points from the Episode: Nathan Young's role as a fractional CMO and founder of Find Your Audience Difference between hiring a fractional CMO and hiring an agency Importance of supporting sales teams and increasing their productivity Content generation in successful B2B marketing Feasibility of generating leads within a short timeframe Importance of content creation and product-led growth models in marketing Strategic marketing approaches in the restaurant industry Challenges of growing a business and acquiring new clients Importance of content creation and being a guest on podcasts for visibility and lead generation Avoidance of cold emailing in marketing services &nbsp; About Nathan Yeung: Nathan Yeung is a seasoned marketing strategist with a decade of experience specializing in B2B business consulting. He has a proven track record of constructing successful marketing teams and launching new products. Nathan's background spans marketing, finance, and management consulting, offering a unique perspective and comprehensive understanding of business operations. His innovative, data-driven marketing strategies, bolstered by a knack for creative problem-solving, have significantly amplified business growth for his clients. Known for his passion for delivering results and the ability to devise unconventional solutions, Nathan continually helps clients distinguish themselves in their industries. His contributions to the marketing world have garnered recognition from various organizations. &nbsp; About Find Your Audience: Find Your Audience is your dedicated outsourced marketing team, specializing in personalized, performance-oriented strategies across Brandinga, Strategy, Creative Designs, Social Media Management, and CMO Services. The team fosters growth and transparency in daily marketing activities to meet your business needs. Core competencies include meticulous planning and execution in consulting and strategy, media

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Executive Officer, President &amp; Founder of Curtis Leadership Consulting, Christina Curtis. Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you find yourself focusing on small failures rather than overall growth? Christina shares insights from successful individuals like Richard Branson and Olympic athletes to help people make daily choices that lead to exceptional outcomes. In a culture of busyness, it can be easy to put personal growth on the back burner. However, Christina emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal growth over immediate payoffs. By making daily choices that align with our values and goals, we can achieve exceptional outcomes in all areas of our lives. Another daily choice for achieving exceptional outcomes is to prioritize time for reflection, reading, and creating new neural pathways in the brain. Successful individuals constantly refine their skills and adapt to new concepts and ideas. &nbsp; About Christina Curtis: Christina is a globally recognized coach and organizational psychologist specializing in motivation and goal attainment. Serving high-achieving clients from entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 executives and Olympic athletes, she is among the top 2% of accredited Master Coaches worldwide. She contributes regularly to leading publications like Forbes and Harvard Business Review. Her innovative book, Choosing Greatness: An Evidence-Based Approach to Achieving Exceptional Outcomes, provides valuable insights into the decision-making processes of highly successful leaders and athletes. The book distinguishes between limiting habits and empowering choices, equipping readers with actionable personal and professional success strategies. &nbsp; About Curtis Leadership Consulting: Curtis Leadership Coaching, founded by Master Business Coach Christina Curtis, uses a potent mix of neuroscience, psychology, and practical experience to accelerate its clients' personal and professional growth. Distinguished as part of the global top 1% of coaches, Curtis's firm specializes in executive coaching and leadership development, helping clients achieve breakthrough results. Underpinned by Christina's expertise in motivation and goal attainment, the firm utilizes cutting-edge tools and performance strategies. Its impactful work garners recognition in esteemed publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. Curtis Leadership Coaching innovates in the coaching industry, striving to propel its clients toward their highest potential. &nbsp; 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 Curtis Leadership Coaching website at https://curtisleadership.com/ Check out Curtis Leadership Coaching on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/curtisleadership/ Check out Christina Curtis on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacurtisofficial/ Check out Christina Curtis on Twitter at https://twitter.com/curtis_coaching Check out Christina Curtis on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=christina%20curtis"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Manager of CoachRoel Consulting LLC, Roel Sarmago. Coach Roel from Snowbird Investor recently shared insights beneficial for Canadians and foreign nationals venturing into real estate, especially in Florida. He emphasized the importance of proper asset structure to reduce tax implications and secure assets, suggesting avoidance of personal name use for property ownership. He recommends starting with short-term rentals, a mutually beneficial arrangement for newcomers. He urges investors to explore beyond typical tourist spots, eyeing potential growth markets. Regarding education, Coach Roel provides resources like free courses and webinars. Lastly, he encourages embracing competition, viewing it as a sign of high demand. His insights are tailored to aid investors in making well-informed decisions. &nbsp; About Roel Sarmago: Roel Sarmago, a distinguished Financial Life Coach, was once trapped in the grueling world of financial consulting, experiencing high financial success and recognition but enduring extreme work pressures. Struggling with a profound imbalance in his work-life dynamics, he found himself on the brink of burnout at 36. Questioning his life trajectory, he envisioned a future inconsistent with his current path. He yearned for a different living where he could fulfill personal dreams, like spending three months in the Philippines, and enjoy quality time with his future children. His search for a solution birthed a financial escape plan, a transformative tool supported by his wife that liberated him from his day "prison." Following his departure from corporate life, Roel cultivated a new career as a Financial Life Coach. Merging his rich background in investment and CFP knowledge with his passion for life coaching, he guides others toward achieving their life goals, underpinned by solid financial plans. &nbsp; About CoachRoel Consulting LLC: CoachRoel Consulting LLC empowers entrepreneurs to achieve personal and financial growth. The firm focuses on helping clients overcome barriers hindering their potential or progress. Its primary aim is to guide entrepreneurs to the next level in their professional journey, assisting them in making strategic and beneficial decisions that can lead to significant breakthroughs in their business. Under the guidance of Roel, an experienced financial life coach, the firm offers personalized strategies and support, ensuring clients are equipped with the tools necessary for success and the motivation and direction to utilize them effectively. Whether entrepreneurs feel stuck or ready to upscale their operations, Coach Roel is committed to driving their advancement. &nbsp; 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 CoachRoel Consulting LLC website at https://coachroel.com/coaching/ Check out CoachRoel Consulting LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/coachroel-consulting-llc/ Check out Roel Sarmago on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachroel/ Check out CoachRoel Consulting LLC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoachRoel/ Check out TeambuildersAgency on Twitter at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO &amp; Owner of Free Time Solutions, Barry Coziahr. Barry Coziahr, owner of Free Time Solutions, shared some insights into virtual assistant (VA) staffing. Free Time Solutions stands out due to its comprehensive VA services, linking clients with suitable VAs and providing robust HR support, monitoring, and coaching for both parties involved. Distinctively from other platforms, Free Time Solutions offers a personalized hiring process, managing all stages and enhancing the likelihood of a good match. They extend their role to become a part of the client's team, ensuring the correct execution of tasks and providing accountability. Barry also emphasized the importance of AI tools and training for VAs. Although AI brings efficiency, it should complement rather than replace human creativity and personal touch. He suggests focusing on high ROI activities, advocating for personalized social media outreach and creating engaging content rather than sales pitches. This approach encourages genuine connections and networking. &nbsp; About Barry Coziahr: Barry Coziahr is a well-regarded business consultant and trainer with a distinguished track record in small business growth. He has directly advised over 10,000 small business owners and delivered over 1,000 seminars nationwide. He focuses on actionable growth and marketing strategies substantiated by real-world examples and case studies. This approach has led to the successful expansion of numerous small businesses, authors, and nonprofits. Barry's unique skill lies in strategic advice and effective systems implementation. He assists companies in scaling up by establishing high-quality personnel structures and systems, ensuring the optimal utilization of resources. Barry Coziahr's contributions to the small business sector are considerable and instrumental in fostering growth and success. &nbsp; About Free Time Solutions: Free Time Solutions is a professional organization providing expert virtual assistants trained to handle various business tasks. Their staff operates remotely, helping businesses manage crucial operations that can be delegated effectively. The services offered are comprehensive, from lead generation and social media management to telemarketing, project management, and event scheduling. They also cover bookkeeping, web design, administrative work, and customer service tasks, providing businesses with a broad spectrum of support options. The virtual assistants at Teambuilders Agency are not only proficient in their respective fields but also dedicated to delivering top-notch service remotely. This combination allows businesses to delegate essential but non-core tasks effectively, freeing up their in-house team to focus on strategic operations. The convenience and efficiency provided by Free Time Solutions make it a practical solution for businesses seeking to optimize their operational workflow and overall productivity. &nbsp; 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 Free Time Solutions website at https://www.teambuilders.agency/ Check out Free Time Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/teambuilders-agency/ Check out Free Time Solutions on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/freetimesolutionsstaffing/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Encore Professionals Group, Chris Fontanella. Due to rising vendor management systems, Chris discussed the transformation of recruiting from a relational to a transactional sphere. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a relational component to find the perfect job fit. The attitude was another primary emphasis, with Chris urging the necessity of having the right mindset and the willingness to work hard to achieve one's goals. Ambition alone isn't enough; a relentless determination to bridge the gap between current standing and desired position is vital. Chris also pointed to the value of LinkedIn as a networking platform and connection to the marketplace. He cautioned against over-communication, encouraging balance to create meaningful connections. These strategies promote career growth and development, emphasizing the relational nature of professional success. &nbsp; About Chris Fontanella: Chris Fontanella, the founder of Encore Professional Group, leverages his unique background in theology and staffing to offer specialized placement services for accounting and finance professionals. He graduated from Oral Roberts University with a BA in New Testament Theology, later acquiring a MA in Theological Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. Transitioning from ministry to the staffing industry, Fontanella uses his eclectic experience to help individuals thrive in their careers. He is a published author, having penned three books, including "Against the Grain," "Jump-Start Your Career," and "Tune Up Your Career," which provide insightful tips for business and personal success. His firm stands out in the industry, reflecting his unconventional journey and keen understanding of the professional realm. &nbsp; About Encore Professionals Group: Encore Professional Group is a distinguished firm known for its specialized consulting and executive search services in accounting, finance, audit, and information technology. The firm’s mission is to establish and nurture enduring relationships with candidates seeking career opportunities and clients needing tailored solutions. Encore Professional Group bridges the gap between professionals and companies by focusing on this dual mission, leveraging its industry-specific knowledge to create mutually beneficial partnerships. The group's commitment to long-term success and satisfaction sets it apart in the competitive staffing industry. &nbsp; 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 Encore Professionals Group website at https://encorepros.com/ Check out Chris Fontanella on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO &amp; President of SmartMoves, Barbara Spector. Barbara Spector, Founder and CEO of Smart Moves, provides astute insights on the dynamics of sales teams and business decision-making. A strong advocate against laying off salespeople, she emphasizes that sales teams form the revenue backbone of any organization, and maintaining their strength, especially amidst uncertain times, is vital. According to Barbara, an organization's cutback approach should be something other than revenue-centric but focus on individual performance metrics. By using comprehensive assessment tools, companies can identify high-potential salespeople who might not necessarily be the top performers but could be valuable assets in the long term. Barbara also brings attention to the shift in sales paradigms. The role of a salesperson has transformed from just being a product promoter to a value provider who creates urgency. This involves building strong relationships with potential clients, connecting emotionally, and functioning more as consultants than conventional salespeople. &nbsp; About Barbara Spector: Barbara Spector is the author of "How to Hire a Rock Star Salesperson: Overcome the 8 Obstacles to Hiring Great Sales People." Her expertise lies in assisting sales teams from diverse industries, such as banking, high technology, and building products, in achieving substantial sales growth of at least 17% or more. Since 1997, her company Smart Moves Inc. has guided clients through a little-known but proven process that saves time and money and eliminates the uncertainty associated with driving reliable and escalating sales growth, even during challenging times. Barbara's blueprint enables clients to shift from a chaotic mindset to generating millions. With her proven process, executives and sales leaders can uncover solutions to overcome obstacles that hinder top-line revenue acceleration, improve their perspective, and develop effective strategies and action plans. Barbara's insightful comments inspire fresh perspectives on the most valuable asset in any company—the high-performing salespeople. &nbsp; About SmartMoves, Inc: SmartMoves Inc. specializes in selecting, developing, and retaining employees who are passionate about their work and receive recognition and appreciation for their contributions to their employers. The company's primary focus is to provide invaluable insights into candidates, employees, organizations, and even customers, which would typically take significant time and resources to uncover. By leveraging these insights, Smart Moves Inc. enables organizations to save substantial amounts of time and millions of dollars that would have otherwise been wasted due to limited information. The ultimate goal of Smart Moves Inc. is to help organizations become "Employers of Choice," joining the ranks of a select few who are recognized for their exceptional employment practices. With Smart Moves Inc.'s services, organizations can better understand their workforce, make informed decisions regarding employee selection and development, and create a work environment that fosters employee satisfaction and engagement. Through their expertise, Smart Moves Inc. empowers companies to maximize their human capital and create a positive and productive workplace culture. &nbsp; 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 SmartMoves, Inc. website at <a href="https://www.amarketingexpert.com/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Book Marketing &amp; Business Marketing Specialist of Author Marketing Experts, Penny Sansevieri. Penny C. Sansevieri, founder and CEO of Author Marketing Experts, shared insightful strategies for effective book marketing. She emphasized the importance of targeting your core base - your dedicated followers. They can become 'superfans' and enhance your book's visibility by leveraging their loyalty. Penny also championed the benefits of podcasts and collaborations with influencers, underlining their roles in message refinement and audience diversification. However, she cautioned authors to focus on influencers who are relevant to their target readers rather than concentrating on celebrity status. She underlined the significance of micro-influencers with a smaller follower count but a highly engaged and relevant audience. Penny shared a case study of a pregnancy book, where a micro-influencer focusing on childbirth was more impactful than a celebrity influencer. &nbsp; About Penny Sansevieri: Penny C. Sansevieri is an accomplished and internationally recognized figure in the publishing industry. As the Founder and CEO of Author Marketing Experts, Inc., she has made significant contributions to book marketing and media relations. With her expertise and experience, she has helped numerous authors achieve success in the competitive publishing world. In addition to her role as a CEO, Penny also serves as an Adjunct Professor at NYU, where she imparts her knowledge on self-publishing to aspiring authors. Her teachings provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of the publishing process. Penny's impressive literary accomplishments include authoring eighteen books, such as "From Book to Bestseller," "How to Sell Your Books by the Truckload on Amazon," "Revise and Re-Release Your Book," and "5 Minute Book Marketing." Her books have garnered widespread acclaim and have topped prestigious bestseller lists, including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal. Penny's dedication to helping authors succeed, her innovative Amazon Optimization programs, and her recognition as one of the top influencers of 2019 by New York Metropolitan Magazine has solidified her position as a highly respected and influential figure in the publishing industry. &nbsp; About Author Marketing Experts: Author Marketing Experts, Inc. was founded to provide authors with comprehensive support and understanding of the publishing industry. Penny C. Sansevieri, an author, established the company to offer services tailored to authors' specific needs and desires. Drawing from her own experiences as a writer, Penny recognized the importance of having a marketing and promotion partner who truly understands the challenges and aspirations of authors. Through Author Marketing Experts, Inc., she sought to create a company that would guide authors through the intricacies of the publishing journey. The company emphasizes the value

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Consultant, Coach &amp; Speaker of Corene Phelps Coaching &amp; Consulting, Corene Phelps. Corene Phelps, the founder of Corene Phelps Coaching and Consulting, a motivational speaker, and a hypnotherapist, delved into the world of hypnotherapy and its remarkable ability to help high performers and business owners overcome limitations and reach their highest potential. Corene clarified common misconceptions about hypnotherapy, emphasizing that it is not about mind control but rather a tool for relaxation and accessing our inner truth. She explained her approach of using therapeutic questioning and guided sessions to help clients identify and overcome mental barriers. Additionally, she highlighted the power of visualization and the creation of new neural pathways in the brain through hypnotherapy, showcasing the mind's capacity to reshape reality and unlock true potential. One particularly resonated topic was Corene's discussion on money blocks and people's emotional attachment to money. She stressed that improving our relationship with money is attainable for everyone, addressing issues such as self-worth, abundance, and the belief that earning money must be difficult. Individuals can transform their financial lives by upgrading old beliefs and patterns. Phelps shared inspiring success stories of individuals who have overcome mindset blocks and are now living up to their full potential on her "Super Expander Podcast." Witnessing others achieve what we aspire to do can serve as a powerful motivator for taking action. &nbsp; About Corene Phelps: Corene Phelps is a Washingtonian entrepreneur and growth advisor who specializes in helping leaders and business owners achieve their full potential. Through her performance training methodology, Corene empowers both leaders and teams to drive strategic priorities and implement tactics in a coordinated and optimized manner. She offers a unique individual mastermind program that combines mindset training with Hypnobreathwork, a technique that combines hypnotherapy and breathwork to enhance personal development. With a diverse background, Corene has gained experience in various industries, including healthcare, wellness, fitness, real estate, and mobile/direct-to-consumer technology. Her expertise allows her to provide valuable insights and guidance to individuals and businesses operating in these sectors. By leveraging her extensive knowledge and practical methods, Corene Phelps supports her clients in maximizing their performance, improving their leadership skills, and unlocking their full potential. Her holistic approach blends mindset training, strategic thinking, and practical implementation, enabling individuals and teams to thrive in their respective fields. &nbsp; About Corene Phelps Coaching &amp; Consulting: Corene Phelps Coaching &amp; Consulting is a professional service firm founded by Corene Phelps, an experienced entrepreneur and growth advisor. The company provides coaching and consulting services to leaders and business owners, helping them unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Corene Phelps Coaching &amp; Consulting empowers individuals and teams to drive strategic priorities and implement tactical solutions in a coordinated and optimized manner through a performance training methodology. With a diverse background in industries such as healthcare, wellness, fitness, real estate, and mobile/direct-to-consumer technology, Corene Phelps brings valuable expertise to her coaching and consulting services. She combines her knowledge, practical...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Consultant, Coach &amp; Speaker, Shannon DeSouza. Shannon underscored the significance of delivering value and fostering trust among our target audience, alerting us to a prevalent mistake many make - having an obsessive focus on sales which results in overwhelming our audience with incessant, desperate promotional pitches. Instead, she encourages an approach that revolutionizes the approach to sales. She recommends that, while undeniably important, sales shouldn't be the sole focus. Tailoring messages to connect with the audience's issues, and demonstrating how your products or services can genuinely help them, is vital in forging a more profound relationship. Also, humanizing yourselves in content plays an instrumental role. It's all about showing your authentic self, allowing your audience to connect with you personally, and fostering genuine relationships built on trust. Storytelling is a potent tool in this strategy, a mechanism for creating strong bonds with your audience. Sharing narratives that your audience can relate to fosters empathy and understanding, setting the groundwork for lasting relationships. &nbsp; About Shannon DeSouza: Shannon is an accomplished entrepreneur and sales expert who has made significant contributions to the software and digital marketing industries. With a master's degree, she began her career as an Account Manager and steadily climbed the corporate ladder to eventually become the VP of Sales &amp; Marketing. Shannon's life took a transformative turn when her husband received a headhunting opportunity, prompting them to relocate from Toronto to Vancouver. During this time, she ventured into the online realm and established herself as a digital marketing strategist, founding her own successful digital marketing agency. Over the past eight years, Shannon has worked with a diverse portfolio of over 350 clients, ranging from startups to multimillion-dollar enterprises. As an online sales coach, she now specializes in helping her high-ticket clients achieve long-term financial success by aligning their target audience, offers, and messaging using her innovative "Consistent Client Super Funnel" method. Shannon's expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to helping others achieve generational wealth have positioned her as a respected figure in online sales and digital marketing. &nbsp; 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 Shannon DeSouza website at https://www.shannondesouza.com/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonadesouza/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.shannon.desouza/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/shannon.desouza Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! &nbsp; 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.<a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of The Challenge Champion, Chris Colt. Chris Colt, reveals how challenges can revolutionize your business. By breaking down complex ideas into manageable steps, these challenges enable participants to achieve small daily victories and breakthroughs. The outcome? A surge in confidence and motivation to continue on the path to success. Here's the intriguing part: Chris offers his challenges at a fee of $100, granting participants access to valuable frameworks and tools. But wait, there's more! He also presents a VIP option for $300, which includes personalized one-on-one sessions with him. A truly premium experience, wouldn't you agree? However, it's important to note that the success of a challenge isn't solely dependent on the size of the audience. Even with a modest participation of 10-25 individuals, high conversion rates can be achieved by targeting the right audience. Quality triumphs over quantity in this case. Chris also imparts invaluable advice on maintaining momentum and flow during and after the challenge. By eliminating unnecessary fluff and condensing content into concise bursts, he ensures that participants derive maximum value from their time. This keeps them in an active state and facilitates more efficient goal achievement. &nbsp; About Chris Colt: Chris Colt, a visionary in community-building, is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to create missions that make a tangible difference. As the founder of The Challenge Champion&#x2122; Accelerator, he has made it his mission to transform how service-based entrepreneurs engage their clients. By turning strangers into loyal customers, Chris' unique strategies have revolutionized the traditional business model. Drawing on his 25-year sales expertise, he knows how to foster mutually beneficial relationships. He has created proprietary frameworks to facilitate better audience service, simultaneously driving sales at a faster pace. Chris' strategies embody a win-win philosophy that aligns the interests of both businesses and their customers. Inspiration for his distinctive approach to community-building comes from an unusual source – his love for endurance cycling. His experience in the sport, particularly his successful completion of the Leadville 100, one of the most challenging mountain bike races globally, has gifted him the ability to design exciting and enjoyable challenges that resonate with clients. He has translated the tenacity, discipline, and motivation required in endurance cycling into business strategies that effectively engage and retain customers. &nbsp; About The Challenge Champion: The Challenge Champion&#x2122; Academy is a transformative platform to bolster brand authority and community engagement. It equips entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and businesses with a proven framework to run successful challenges, create a consistent stream of new clients, and build stronger audience connections. The Academy's unique approach emphasizes experiential learning over traditional methods like webinars and content downloads. Instead of being taught, the audience gets a mini-coaching experience with a taste of working directly with you. This method fosters a deeper bond and allows potential clients to witness firsthand what it's like to collaborate before investing. Moreover, the Academy helps cultivate a vibrant community by bringing together like-minded individuals eager for change. You quickly ascend as a leader in your niche, generate predictable revenue, and effortlessly enhance your credibility. &nbsp; Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Business Coach, Speaker &amp; Founder of Jess Stewart LLC, Jess Stewart. &nbsp; Jess Stewart, a strategic business guide based in Texas, talked about her mission to help leadership teams and companies achieve their full potential. Jess offers valuable insights and practical tips on scaling and executing business strategies. But Jess doesn't just identify the problem; she also offers a solution. She conducts intensive and engaging sessions with the leadership team when working with clients. These sessions involve breaking down the company, identifying gaps, and creating a customized approach based on best business practices. Jess also holds quarterly sessions to ensure accountability and progress toward the annual plan. In addition to her work with leadership teams, Jess has expanded her offers. She now provides a "climb" program, where she closely collaborates with leadership teams. She has also started mastermind programs for ascending leaders not part of her teams. These programs involve monthly Zoom meetings, where Jess leads content and facilitates discussions among participants across the United States. &nbsp; About Jessica Stewart: Jess is a fearless and highly accomplished leadership team coach, strategic advisor, and business guide with a lifetime of hard-won successes under her belt. Raised by a Marine Corps pilot on a cattle operation in the mountains, Jess learned the keys to running an entrepreneurial company. Grit, hard work, and no complaining infused a work ethic in Jess that she lives and breathes today. After college, Jess became a teacher. After a relocation with her husband to a city with no teaching jobs, Jess decided to start a medical billing business from her kitchen table with two young children under her feet. Though she knew nothing about medical billing, the lessons learned from her dad “stuck.” Failure has never been an option for Jess. Jess worked every job inside her company, grew it to two US locations, and an international division. The story was not all roses. Hitting the ceiling was not an unfamiliar feeling for Jess. These painful times taught her to assemble a leadership team and company that operated on world-class systems and processes. When the unexpected opportunity for exit came, she could say yes! Today, Jess is devoted to helping other entrepreneurs, leadership teams and companies run better businesses and live better lives. Jess lives in Texas with her husband Murt, and two children Cora and Murt V. &nbsp; About Jess Stewart LLC: Jess Stewart LLC is a firm that believes in the potential of companies to reach their biggest goals and focuses on equipping top leadership with the necessary guidance to steer growth. Leveraging first-hand experience, the firm provides professional consulting services designed to help navigate the complexities of business expansion. It acknowledges the importance of experienced leadership in company development and tailors its approach to ensure client success. Jess Stewart LLC embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to business excellence, making it a go-to resource for companies aiming to excel in their industry. The ultimate mission is to facilitate growth and transformation for its clients through strategic leadership support. &nbsp; 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 Jess Stewart LLC website at <a href="https://www.jess-stewart.com/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO &amp; President of Doug Thorpe Group, Doug Thorpe. &nbsp; In today's world, employees want to be recognized as more than just a number on a payroll. The pandemic has accelerated this mindset shift, and leaders need to embrace this change and recalibrate their thinking to have open dialogues with their teams. Doug has worked with large corporate and entrepreneurial clients and noticed a trend where employees want to be recognized as whole human beings. He believes recognizing employees as individuals with unique needs and desires is crucial for creating a positive workplace culture. As a business therapist, Doug emphasizes the importance of coaching to improve leadership capacity and abilities. He believes changing behavior takes time and effort and prefers longer engagements to help clients achieve their goals. His website, dougthorpe.com, offers much information, and he invites visitors to join him for a 30-minute discovery call. During the podcast, Doug also discussed his new book, "The Exit Strategy Handbook," which focuses on helping business owners plan for their exit from their businesses. He emphasizes the importance of beginning with the end in mind and engineering decisions accordingly. One of the biggest challenges for business owners is figuring out how to make the business run without them being there. Doug recommends delegating, automating, or outsourcing repetitive tasks and developing a solid team with problem-solving skills. Doug's book is especially relevant now, as data suggests that up to 80 million baby boomers are getting ready to exit businesses they've built over the last few decades. It is essential to plan for the future and consider the nine different scenarios of what an exit could be about to maximize the outcome of that transaction. &nbsp; About Doug Thorpe: Doug is a seasoned executive coach and business advisor with over 20 years of experience. His expertise lies in assisting small business owners to scale their businesses and develop leadership skills. A former US Army Captain and Senior VP in the banking industry, Thorpe's diverse background also includes founding five successful businesses. Known for his podcast 'Leading Powered by Common Sense,' he interviews and learns from renowned leaders worldwide. Over his career, he has provided more than 19,000 hours of leadership coaching, including engagements with major oil companies and global brands, significantly enhancing their market value. &nbsp; About Doug Thorpe Group: The Doug Thorpe Group provides coaching and consulting services for senior executives and leadership teams. Recognizing that the skills which propel individuals into leadership may be different skills needed for consistent long-term growth, the group aims to facilitate adaptive learning. Over three decades, they've helped hundreds of teams build new capabilities, create clarity, and foster individual leadership styles. Their ideal clients are mid-cap companies with 100+ staff and eight-figure market values, particularly those feeling stagnant, undergoing transitions, or experiencing challenges in scaling their businesses. Doug Thorpe, the certified executive coach and...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner, President, Author, Speaker, Entrepreneur &amp; Advocate for Healing of Pulse Marketing Inc., Serena Mastin. &nbsp; Serena, a remarkable entrepreneur and advocate for healing, opened up about her past experiences leading to her success. Her journey is nothing short of extraordinary, filled with heartache and triumph. But what truly struck me was Serena's unwavering commitment to using her pain as a catalyst for positive change. In her book, "Exposed: You Can't Heal When You Hide," Serena fearlessly bares her soul, encouraging others to do the same. She highlights the importance of sharing our truth, whether uncomfortable or raw. Serena believes that healing can only occur when we remove our masks and bravely confront our inner demons. Serena's journey has transformed her into a compassionate leader who understands the power of vulnerability. She believes authentic leadership creates a safe space for others to share their truth without fear of judgment. Doing so can foster a sense of belonging and authenticity that empowers everyone to reach their full potential. &nbsp; About Serena Mastin: A true driver of overcoming self-limiting beliefs as she humbly climbed the ladder of success, Serena has overcome extreme obstacles, personally and professionally. She started her life in witness protection and nine different foster homes, leading to teenage addiction and homelessness, and most recently walked through the devastation of her husband's suicide. Serena has faced unimaginable adversity. Yet, despite her challenges, she found a real sense of purpose along the way. The most inspiring part of her story is her strength, resilience, and authenticity. She brings a wealth of knowledge and insight from industries across the corporate landscape. With over twenty years of experience climbing the corporate ladder, Serena’s career has included being knocked down, and climbing back to executive leadership roles with Fortune 500 companies, before carving her path by founding Pulse Marketing Inc. in 2013. In addition to being a visionary entrepreneur, Serena recently published her first book, Exposed: You Can't Heal When You Hide, a memoir recounting her life story in harrowing detail. In the book, Serena discusses her experiences with assault, addiction, homelessness, infidelity, mental health, and profound healing. Her thought-provoking story inspires others to embrace challenges and do it with passion. Serena profoundly relates her unique experience to everyday challenges striking a nerve with every audience, and has dedicated her life to personally and professionally empowering others. &nbsp; About Pulse Marketing Inc.: Pulse Marketing, led by Serena Mastin, is a full-service, award-winning marketing firm known for innovative strategies and creative services. They challenge conventional marketing norms and aim to catapult businesses into industry-leading positions. Their mission is to enhance companies' presence through comprehensive strategies spanning print, advertising, social media, internet marketing, video, and web design. With a unique blend of strategic planning and creative artistry, Pulse Marketing is committed to providing businesses with a competitive edge. &nbsp; Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:  https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner, HR Strategist &amp; Culture Creator of People-Powered Solutions, Lori-Ann Duguay. Lori highlighted employees' ten basic needs at work and how meeting these needs can attract and retain high-performing talent. She emphasized that while these needs have always been there, the pandemic has brought them to the forefront. In an increasingly remote and flexible work environment, work-life balance and positive employee experiences have become more critical than ever. Lori made an interesting point about the generational differences in the importance placed on these needs. While the needs don't change, how they are prioritized may vary across different generations. For example, younger generations are accustomed to instant feedback and require ongoing feedback to stay engaged, while older generations may prefer a different approach. Another key takeaway from the episode was the importance of clear communication and providing feedback. Lori stressed the need to avoid the notion that no news is good. Different personality styles and generations may require different types of feedback, so leaders must take the time to understand their team members' preferences and needs. Lori also shared some strategies for fostering a sense of purpose and impact within an organization. This includes aligning the work employees do with the broader meaning and effect of the company. Leaders can create a more meaningful and engaging workplace by highlighting how each employee's contribution contributes to the company's mission, vision, and values. &nbsp; About Lori-Ann Duguay: With over two decades of valuable experience in a single organization, Lori-Ann is highly familiar with the dual-edged sword of stable pensions and benefits—referred to as 'golden handcuffs.' This experience fuels her commitment to assisting businesses in crafting stimulating workplaces that offer engaging and meaningful experiences to their employees. Lori-Ann specializes in aiding growth-focused companies to trigger organizational transformations by overhauling their workplace cultures. She is instrumental in constructing an all-encompassing employee experience and leadership framework necessary to attract and retain the workforce essential for thriving in the evolving world of work. Capitalizing on her career as an HR Strategist, Talent Development Expert, Professional Coach, and Dispute Resolution Practitioner, Lori-Ann merges her profound understanding of talent management and employee engagement. She guides organizations and leaders to implement a people-centric approach to leadership, talent development, and conflict resolution. &nbsp; About People-Powered Solutions: People-Powered Solutions lead the way in workplace culture strategy and leadership development as the work landscape shifts. With 1 in 4 employees contemplating job changes, organizations must adapt to attract talent. The firm helps organizations shape work environments that draw and retain employees. Acknowledging that direct motivation isn't feasible, they focus on fostering highly motivating work environments. They help companies build compelling end-to-end employee experiences that decrease turnover, retain top talent, and enhance employee engagement. Meeting clients where they're at, they assist in crafting in-house capacity, infrastructure, and leadership essential for the new world of work. Using over 20 years of HR strategy experience in government and the potent Everything DISC Psychometric tools, they equip organizations with the necessary training, tools, and resources to unlock and sustain their team's potential. &nbsp; Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: ...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Growth Officer of Brand You Media, Zach Day. &nbsp; Zach, the founder of Brand You Media, a filmmaker, film director, and a contestant/trainer for Ninja Warriors, discussed the importance of storytelling. Zach highlighted the importance of going beyond surface-level content. He delves deep into his clients' lives, asking the tough questions to uncover their authentic stories. By showcasing the conflicts and obstacles they've overcome, he adds depth and emotional impact to their narratives. It's all about creating that genuine connection with the audience. He also emphasized the power of branding, from brand colors and logos to having a professional online presence. Consistent content creation on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube is critical to building a solid personal brand. It's about putting yourself out there and sharing your story to captivate your audience. &nbsp; About Zach Day: Zach is the Founder &amp; Creative Director of Brand You Media, a video agency focused on helping purpose-driven entrepreneurs and coaches significantly impact the world. Brand You Media recognizes the challenges of running a business and building an engaged online audience. To address this, they have developed a unique three-step process that enables entrepreneurs to connect with their ideal audience and create a strong, engaged community around their message. Zach also hosts the Right Now Show Podcast. The podcast features conversations with successful entrepreneurs, coaches, and leaders who have achieved seven-figure success. The podcast aims to provide valuable insights and experiences that can inspire and support Gen Z entrepreneurs. Zach specializes in creating powerful brand stories through 2-5 minute videos for entrepreneurs and coaches who want to make a positive impact. These brand stories emotionally engage the audience and foster a deep connection. He also offers social media marketing services that focus on building credibility, authority, and brand awareness. &nbsp; About Brand You Media: Brand You Media is a company dedicated to assisting purpose-driven entrepreneurs and coaches in significantly impacting the world. Recognizing the challenges of running a business and building an engaged online audience, Brand You Media has developed a unique three-step process to help individuals connect with their ideal audience and foster a robust and active community around their message. The company's primary goal is to empower entrepreneurs to share their powerful stories with the world. Brand You Media believes people are drawn to those they can relate to, like, and trust. By unlocking and sharing your personal story, you can establish a deeper connection with your community and inspire them to take meaningful action. Through their expertise, they help entrepreneurs effectively communicate their messages, build authentic connections, and inspire positive change. Their innovative approach enables individuals to make a lasting impact and fulfill their mission meaningfully. &nbsp; 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 Brand You Media website at https://mybrandyou.com/ Check out Brand You Media on Instagram <a href="https://www.instagram.com/iamzachday/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Growth Officer of VSA Partners, Ariadna Navarro. &nbsp; Ariadna Navarro, Chief Growth Officer of Partners, a renowned brand strategy and design consultancy, shared some invaluable wisdom about defining a brand's ethos and standing. Defining a brand can be challenging, especially in an era where cancel culture and fear of missteps prevail. However, Ariadna says that if a brand remains honest and consistent about who they are, it will continue to thrive. She even highlighted Bud Light and Nike as examples of brands that faced backlash for their decisions but stayed true to themselves and their values. She also spotlighted Patagonia as a prime example of authenticity. Despite potential skepticism regarding their fleece zip-ups and commitment to saving the world, this outdoor clothing company wholeheartedly embraces their mission. This unwavering dedication to their purpose resonates with consumers and sets them apart. &nbsp; About Ariadna Navarro:  Ariadna, originally from Venezuela, is a trailblazer connecting business strategy to brand and experience strategy to foster growth. As the Chief Growth Officer, she spearheads design, client engagement, and business development, applying a unique perspective on market trends and brand differentiation. Her expansive portfolio includes projects with leading firms like IBM, AT&amp;T, and Wayfair. She is genuinely interested in emerging technologies, corporate acquisitions, politics, and filmmaking, holding a postgraduate degree in the latter.  Before joining VSA, Ariadna led strategy at Interbrand. She currently resides in New York with her family. &nbsp; About VSA Partners:  VSA Partners, a strategy and design agency, is committed to designing better human experiences. VSA creates impactful, measurable experiences in a busy world by merging consumer insights, data, and human-centered design. With fully integrated capabilities, including branding, advertising, data science, and technology, VSA operates from Chicago, New York, and San Francisco. As a part of 'Meet The People,' it leverages international collaborations. VSA's 40-year journey includes partnerships with renowned brands like Google, Nike, and IBM. Adapting to a hybrid working model, VSA encourages its team to define their workspaces - anywhere within the United States. This flexibility promotes solitude, collaboration, or small-group engagements, as needed. Geographic neutrality in hiring ensures diverse experiences and perspectives. Viewing their offices as flexible work hubs, VSA values human interaction, a change of scenery, and participation worldwide for employee wellbeing and organizational benefits. &nbsp; 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 VSA Partners website at  <span...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Sales Officer, President, Master Trainer &amp; Executive Consultant of Brooke M Dukes, Brooke Dukes. &nbsp; Brooke shares her expertise in helping executives find fulfillment by aligning their passions with their actions. Fear is a common emotion that keeps many individuals from reaching their full potential. Brooke emphasizes that fear, whether it's fear of failure, success, imposter syndrome, or perfectionism, should not hinder personal and professional growth. Effective leadership strategies are crucial for success, especially in distributed or virtual teams. Brooke highlights the importance of understanding what motivates employees and using tools like anonymous assessments to gather valuable feedback. By aligning employees' goals with the company vision, it's possible to create a sense of purpose and engagement that can elevate organizations. She also emphasizes the need for companies to provide women with a voice and recognize their unique contributions. Diverse workforces enhance efficiency and effectiveness and foster a culture of innovation and growth. Women can showcase their strengths and bring positive change together by supporting and mentoring each other. &nbsp; About Brooke Dukes: Brooke is a seasoned executive with 30 years of experience in roles such as CEO, Chief Sales Officer, President, Master Trainer, and Executive Consultant. She has worked with C-suite executives and entrepreneurs, helping them navigate personal and professional challenges. With strategic planning and transformation expertise, she has served Fortune 100 companies, including United Airlines, IBM, EDS, Lear, Isagenix, and Homepoint. She excels in assisting women to identify and overcome barriers, crafting unique plans tailored to their circumstances. Brooke earned her BS from Michigan State University. As a mother of two and an ardent traveler, she combines her passion for exploring the world with her mission of helping individuals achieve their dreams. She currently resides in Austin, TX. &nbsp; About Brooke M Dukes: Brooke is a consultancy that specializes in personal and professional development. Recognizing the challenges faced by those who may appear successful yet feel stressed and overwhelmed, she provides customized solutions. These plans are designed to meet individuals in their current situation, identify their desired goals, and devise a strategic pathway toward them. The core premise of her service lies in helping people transition from near burnout to a more fulfilled and balanced life. Through her expertise, Brooke ensures that her clients envision change and successfully achieve it. &nbsp; 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 Brooke M Dukes website at https://www.brookemdukes.com/ Check out Brooke M Dukes on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/brookemdukes/ Check out Brooke M Dukes on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/brookedukes/?hl=en Check out Brooke M Dukes on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/brookedukes/ Check out Brooke Dukes on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder &amp; President of Build Scale Grow, Inc., Benjamin Friedman. &nbsp; Are you a small business owner who needs help to take your company to the next level? Do you feel like you've hit a plateau and can't figure out how to break through? Benjamin shared some invaluable insights into founders' challenges when scaling their businesses. He stressed the importance of identifying knowledge and experience gaps and building suitable systems to reach your goals. As your business grows, it's crucial to find the right talent – full-time employees or fractional resources – and to take calculated risks to execute your vision. But where to start? Benjamin's book “Scale: Reach Your Peak” is an excellent resource for founders looking to apply academic best practices in real-world situations. You can level up your operations and achieve success by categorizing your business challenges and prioritizing your resources. &nbsp; About Benjamin Friedman: Benjamin is a seasoned financial and operational expert with over 20 years of experience. He founded Build Scale Grow Inc. in 2019, a company dedicated to helping startups scale and multiply. Friedman has held multiple senior roles, including Chief Operating Officer, where he has directed various departments, including sales, marketing, and legal. His leadership has led to five successful M&amp;A transactions in the past decade. He authored the book “Scale: Reach Your Peak,” a comprehensive guide for business growth. Friedman values open communication, collaboration, and optimism in achieving company goals and individual performance. His approach fosters immediate problem-solving, building scalable systems, and implementing accountability metrics. &nbsp; About Build Scale Grow, Inc.: Build Scale Grow, Inc. is a solution-oriented company aiding businesses aiming to make an impact in their industries. The firm provides strategic advice to navigate challenges and anticipate future obstacles tailored to each company's unique values and business model. Recognizing the focus of businesses on product or service expansion, Build Scale Grow helps alleviate concerns about infrastructure. They aim to provide support in building or optimizing teams, software, processes, and systems to expedite and maximize market reach. Their primary mission is to assist businesses in realizing their vision effectively and efficiently. &nbsp; 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 Build Scale Grow, Inc. website at https://www.webuildscalegrow.com/ Check out Build Scale Grow, Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/buildscalegrow/ Check out Benjamin Friedman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminbfriedman/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! &nbsp; 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 to the CEO &amp; Culture Designer of Spoke and Wheel, Alla Weinberg. &nbsp; As we spend a significant amount of time in our workplaces, creating an environment that is safe, inclusive, and empowering is essential. Alla Weinberg, CEO, and culture designer of Spoke and Wheel, discussed the importance of designing cultures of safety that empower people in the workplace. Alla highlighted that many business problems stem from a culture rather than a tactical or execution issue. She emphasized that between 50% and 70% of change, initiatives fail because executives must pay attention to the culture and bring their people along. Therefore, it is essential to create a culture where people feel safe to speak up, especially those from marginalized groups. Alla believes that psychological safety is the foundation of any culture, whether it's equitable, inclusive, innovative, or feedback-oriented. She works with clients on a longer-term basis, typically in three-month sprints, to map out their current and target cultures and make operational changes to achieve their goals. &nbsp; About Alla Weinberg: Alla is a renowned culture designer and work relationship coach. Leveraging her design background and principles of neuroscience and positive psychology, she works with business leaders globally to create safe, trust-based workplace cultures. She incorporates 40 years of Gottman Institute relationship research in her unique approach. Weinberg offers team training, work relationship coaching, and culture design solutions. In team training, she imparts vital interpersonal skills. Through coaching, she aids in actualizing ideal team dynamics by setting goals and building trust. Her culture design fosters healthy relationships that yield emotionally, physically, and psychologically safe workplaces, thus boosting employee satisfaction and corporate profitability. &nbsp; About Spoke and Wheel: ​​Spoke and Wheel is a pioneering firm that fosters exceptional relationships within companies. They believe that robust relationships form the cornerstone of successful businesses. Their services include virtual team training, coaching, and facilitation, providing teams with the necessary tools to grow, communicate, connect, and innovate. Key offerings include guidance during transition periods, fostering a safe work environment, facilitating courageous conversations, and nurturing the development of team leaders. They aim to instigate transformative changes in how teams relate to each other, driving increased effectiveness and productivity in the workplace. By enabling more meaningful connections, Spoke and Wheel is revolutionizing team dynamics. &nbsp; 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 Spoke and Wheel website at https://www.spokeandwheel.co/ Check out Spoke and Wheel on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/spokeandwheel/ Check out Spoke and Wheel on Instagram www.instagram.com/culture_of_safety Check out Spoke and Wheel on Twitter at https://twitter.com/iamallaw Check out Alla Weinberg on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder &amp; Partnerships Director of MeetPartners Pte Ltd, Gil Petersil. &nbsp; Gil understands the importance of building solid relationships in the business world. He knows that networking is not just about exchanging business cards but also about creating deep and meaningful connections that can lead to long-lasting friendships and partnerships.   To achieve this, Gil suggests spending quality time with others, sharing personal interests and passions, and being vulnerable by sharing struggles and challenges. He also advises to be bold, ask for help when needed, and audit and refresh your network to align with your goals. Finally, Gil recommends to find common interests with others, attend events, or volunteer together to create a strong bond. By following these tips, Gil believes anyone can build a strong network and succeed in today's business environment. &nbsp; About Gil Petersil:  Gil is a renowned global thought leader specializing in business strategy, networking, and mastermind methodology. As Co-Founder and Partnership Director at MeetPartners, he unites educational projects fostering personal and business development. A prolific international speaker and business strategist, Petersil aids companies in advancing communication management, networking, and knowledge-sharing techniques.  An advocate for continuous learning, Petersil leverages an "Edutainment" approach to teaching. His experiences living and working in numerous countries contribute to his comprehensive understanding of human psychology and creative marketing strategies. Notably, he has mentored over 1000 startups and has spoken at as many international events. With over 20 years of corporate world experience, Petersil is celebrated for his ability to align businesses with their original purpose, fostering beneficial partnerships and making a lasting impact. &nbsp; About MeetPartners Pte Ltd:  MeetPartners is a multinational firm operating across major cities like Moscow, London, and Singapore that focuses on personal development, business events, and educational tourism. Renowned for working closely with global experts and influential business coaches like Tony Robbins, MeetPartners holds an exclusive relationship with Robbins within the Russian market. The company excels in organizing large-scale business-related events, with a single record group of 1700 individuals attending a Tony Robbins event in Singapore in 2018.  Its ambitions extend to bringing Robbins to Russia, achieving this goal on September 1, 2018, with an anticipated audience of 25,000. By consistently surpassing market expectations and setting high-reaching goals, MeetPartners continues to make strides in its industry, supported by its shareholders and advisory board. &nbsp; 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 <span style="font-weight:...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; Principal of JHL Solutions, Juli Lassow. &nbsp; As a retail consultant, Julie shares her wealth of expertise on how retailers can provide their customers with high-quality products that exceed their expectations. She emphasizes establishing strong partnerships with suppliers to achieve this goal.  Building solid partnerships starts with understanding customers' preferences and expectations. By doing so, retailers can identify products that will sell well and ensure their suppliers can meet the demand. Regularly sharing updates and feedback with suppliers ensures that both parties are on the same page and can address any issues quickly. Retailers should also focus on creating a welcoming and enjoyable shopping environment by paying attention to small details in-store. To achieve the best results, retailers can seek the help of an independent negotiator to evaluate their interests and position objectively. This can lead to more impactful results and ensure both parties feel satisfied with the final agreement. With a positive and collaborative approach, retailers can establish strong partnerships with their suppliers, resulting in high-quality products that meet and exceed customer expectations. &nbsp; About Juli Lassow:  Juli is an expert in retail with over two decades of experience. As the founder of JHL Solutions, she specializes in developing private-label partnerships that transform the relationships between mass retailers and suppliers.  Lassow's distinct expertise lies in owned brand product development, supplier matrices, global sourcing, and compelling negotiations, predominantly for Fortune 50 and 500 organizations. Beyond her professional role, she is a speaker, author, and devoted advocate for sustainability, leading her industry toward a more conscious future. &nbsp; About JHL Solutions:  JHL Solutions is a consultancy firm aimed at demystifying the process of creating successful owned brand partnerships. The firm bridges the gap between retailers, suppliers, and strategies to maximize product value.  Founded by retail expert Juli Lassow, JHL Solutions can provide value at any stage, whether you require a completely new solution or wish to overhaul an existing structure. The firm's services cater particularly well to organizations whose needs aren't met by larger retail consultancies, providing tailored, practical strategies for brand development. &nbsp; 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 JHL Solutions website at  http://www.jhl-solutions.com/ Check out JHL Solutions on Linkedin at  <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Exeutive Officer of Epic Presence, Casey Meehan. Content marketing has become essential to every business strategy, but creating high-quality content is time-consuming. Enter AI tools that help businesses generate content faster and more efficiently. In a recent podcast episode, the CEO and founder of Epic Presence, Casey Meehan, shared his insights on using AI in content creation. Meehan emphasized the importance of quality over quantity in content marketing and warned against using AI for thin content. He suggested using AI tools fine-tune prompts and generate more powerful results. AI can also help write bios, an essential part of any business profile. Meehan's YouTube channel, Blazing Zebra, offers tutorials on AI and marketing, making it a valuable resource for businesses looking to improve their content marketing strategies. He also stressed the importance of having a marketing department and a direct line to the C-suite for businesses looking to work with content marketing agencies like Epic Presence. &nbsp; About Casey Meehan:  Casey founded Epic Presence, a specialized content marketing agency, in January 2014, focusing on SaaS and HR technology sectors. His agency is known for producing over 2,500 in-depth articles for global tech companies and engaging with over 20,000 influencers to boost content outreach.  Meehan pioneered a unique influencer outreach strategy that fosters growth and lead generation. Utilizing original data gathered from surveys, research, and interviews, Epic Presence crafts compelling narratives for its clients.  Its impressive portfolio includes partnerships with leading SaaS companies, including Salesforce and other innovative B2B tech organizations, contributing to their significant growth over the past decade. &nbsp; About Epic Presence:  Epic Presence, a content marketing agency, has been propelling the growth of major B2B software providers for a decade. Leveraging insights from hundreds of software marketing campaigns and continuous research on software procurement and usage, the agency deeply understands what drives campaign success.  As part of its mission to share knowledge, Epic Presence has developed 'Funnel Fuel: Epic Software Marketing Insights.' Subscribers gain access to valuable, actionable data to augment their software businesses.  The company provides a report called Software Buyer's Journey. It gives advice on how to approach modern software buyers, improve product demos and understand why customers sometimes do not buy. These resources equip businesses with the understanding necessary to excel in the B2B software market. &nbsp; 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 Epic Presence website at  <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Speaker &amp; Coach of The Productivity Specialist, Amber De La Garza. Amber is a productivity specialist, who shared five tips for achieving more in less time. She emphasized the importance of working smarter, not harder, and learning the skills of productivity and time management. Small business owners often wear many hats and juggle multiple responsibilities, leading to burnout and stress. The tips included consistent planning, personalizing your schedule, and focusing on behaviour and habit. She also added that using a task and project management app like ClickUp creates boundaries between work and personal life. &nbsp; About Amber De La Garza: Amber is a professional coach, trainer, speaker, and writer dedicated to empowering small business owners. Through her Peak Performance Program and the Productivity Straight Talk Podcast, she helps clients enhance time management skills, raise productivity levels, and accomplish vital goals. Amber ensures maximized profits, reduces business stress, and fosters a healthy work-life balance. Her work also extends to promoting mindset growth, leadership training, and establishing business systems. Passionate about off-road adventures, an ACDC fan, and a guacamole lover, Amber balances her professional pursuits with a fulfilling personal life. &nbsp; About The Productivity Specialist: The Productivity Specialist offers on-demand programs designed to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of small business owners. These programs leverage proven time management systems and productivity strategies to help clients overcome productivity challenges, maximize profits, reduce stress, and prioritize what truly matters. The services are versatile, accommodating diverse business needs, from developing tailored strategies and overcoming productivity issues to guiding entrepreneurs toward successful results. These programs offer the flexibility and convenience of learning at one's own pace and comfort. With the ultimate objective of optimizing time management and enhancing productivity, The Productivity Specialist is a beneficial resource for small business owners seeking substantial progress in their business and personal lives. &nbsp; 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 Productivity Specialist website at https://amberdelagarza.com/ Check out The Productivity Specialist on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/theproductivityspecialist/ Check out The Productivity Specialist on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/theproductivityspecialist Check out Amber De La Garza on LinkedIn at https://amberdelagarza.com/ Check out Amber De La Garza on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Amber_DeLaGarza Check out Amber De La Garza on Instagram at <a href="https://www.instagram.com/amber_delagarza/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Executive &amp; Board Member of BigLeaf Networks, Greg Davis. &nbsp; Today's businesses rely heavily on cloud-based applications for their daily operations. From call centres to healthcare facilities, there is a growing need for a consistent and reliable internet connection that can support these mission-critical applications. Greg talked about the importance of maintaining a reliable internet connection and its impact on the customer experience. Davis emphasized that the pandemic has accelerated the adoption of cloud-based technologies, making it more critical for businesses to prioritize the customer experience.  With the rise of remote work and online shopping, companies must ensure that their Internet connection is fast and reliable to meet consumer demands. A slow or unreliable Internet connection can lead to frustrated customers and lost business. Big Leaf Networks offers a solution for businesses that need a consistent and reliable Internet connection. Their perfectly elastic product can benefit any business that relies on the Internet for mission-critical operations. Even single-site locations can benefit from their product, making it appealing to the mass market. &nbsp; About Greg Davis:  Greg is a seasoned executive with 25 years of successful business growth experience. His leadership expertise lies in strategic revitalization, which optimizes companies' value. Davis has a notable reputation for enhancing profitability, minimizing capital requirements, and bolstering revenue growth.   His seasoned acumen in business scaling has led to significant enterprise value enhancement, demonstrating his competency and commitment to fostering organizational development and progress. &nbsp; About BigLeaf Networks:  Bigleaf Networks, founded in 2012 in Portland, Oregon, specializes in Internet connectivity solutions. Its unique network optimization technology simplifies the internet usage experience for IT professionals and organizations, assuring optimal productivity. By dynamically adjusting traffic based on real-time conditions, Bigleaf preserves application performance and compensates for potential outages. The system integrates smoothly with existing firewalls, ISPs, and applications, provides immediate benefits post-installation and operates autonomously. Backed by investors, Bigleaf extends its services throughout North America and Europe. &nbsp; 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 Bigleaf Networks website at  https://www.bigleaf.net/ Check out Bigleaf Networks on Linkedin at  <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; CEO of CoachHub, Yannis Niebelschuetz. Are you looking to unlock your full potential and improve your leadership skills? Do you want to enhance your company's culture and performance? CoachHub is the global leader in digital coaching. CoachHub offers a pool of over 3,500 certified business coaches who are highly vetted and available through an app or the web, making it accessible and convenient for employees of all company sizes. With an unlimited coaching model, employees have access to their coach for an entire year, allowing for continuous growth and development. But how did CoachHub come to be? Founder Yannis Niebelschuetz shares that his and his brother's experience leading a company sparked their passion for coaching. After hiring a coach who changed everything, they started CoachHub in their living room. With hard work and perseverance, CoachHub has grown to have offices in 15 countries and 700 full-time employees globally and have raised over $330 million in venture capital. Coaches love working with CoachHub because they can focus on helping individuals grow and achieve their goals. The platform offers coaching in various categories, including organizational employee experience, culture, leadership, executive coaching, performance, and talent. With a philosophy centred around personal growth and leadership inspiration, CoachHub is the future of coaching. &nbsp; About Yannis Niebelschuetz: Yannis is the Founder and CEO of CoachHub, a digital platform revolutionizing corporate coaching. Under his leadership, CoachHub democratizes global access to personalized coaching for companies, fostering talent development and organizational transformation. Niebelschuetz's innovative approach to integrating technology and coaching accelerates workforce empowerment and productivity, establishing him as a visionary leader in the professional development industry. Firms of all sizes leverage his expertise to initiate meaningful change through coaching. &nbsp; About CoachHub: CoachHub is a global leader in digital talent development, providing personalized, measurable, and scalable coaching programs for all workforce levels. Their service fosters increased engagement, productivity, and employee retention. Featuring a diverse network of over 3,500 certified business coaches across 90 countries, it offers sessions in 60+ languages, ensuring accessibility. CoachHub's team, comprised of 900 employees from 63+ countries, upholds its mission to unlock individuals' full potential. Recognized on Glassdoor for its impactful work and strong company culture, CoachHub exemplifies an engaging, inclusive, and growth-oriented workplace environment. &nbsp; 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 CoachHub website at https://www.coachhub.com/ Check out CoachHub on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/coachhub/ Check out CoachHub on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CoachHub_IO Check out CoachHub on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoachHubIO/ Check out Yannis Niebelschuetz on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder, Visionary &amp; CTO of INK, Alexander De Ridder. Are you tired of creating static pages with generic content? Do you want to improve your chances of ranking in less time? Look no further than Ink, an AI-powered content optimization tool that can help you achieve spectacular results. Ink's third-generation semantic AI empowers you to gain valuable insights into your competitors' SEO strategies, enabling you to produce engaging and evidence-based content. Additionally, this AI technology can help optimize your writing for emotional impact, ensuring that your content resonates with your audience.ly accurate but also emotionally stimulating. But what about concerns about an Internet where AI potentially writes all content? Alexander De Ridder, Co-Founder of Ink thinks the new Internet will only focus on factual content, not who creates it. And he's not alone in his prediction that the future of SEO and content marketing lies in AI-generated content and personalized user experiences. &nbsp; About Alexander De Ridder: Alexander is the co-founder and CTO of INK, the first AI-powered content optimization software. A visionary and innovator, Alexander crafts pioneering web marketing tools. He is keenly interested in the decision-making processes of humans and AI. De Ridder was also a co-founder and CTO at Edgy Labs, LLC, a successful marketing agency serving Fortune 500 companies, acquired by Compass.uol in 2021. Known for his versatile roles, Alexander brings expertise as a project manager, strategist, leader, and technology officer to his teams. &nbsp; About INK:  It was established in 2017, as a pioneer in search marketing optimization aimed at facilitating purposeful communication. The company specializes in developing Natural Language Optimization AI models to decode content semantics and discover performance-enhancing nuances. INK's cutting-edge technology empowers your content to be found, engages audiences, and drives conversions, providing a competitive edge in a cluttered digital environment. Its mission is to assist in creating compelling content and aid businesses in standing out amidst the noise. &nbsp; 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 INK website at https://inkforall.com/ Check out INK on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/inkcoinc/ Check out INK on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ink_4all/ Check out INK on Twitter at https://twitter.com/INK_4all Check out INK on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/inkcoinc Check out Alexander De Ridder on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/adridder/ Check out Alexander De Ridder on Twitter at https://twitter.com/adridder 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

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Executive Officer of EmergeLabs, Brad Hunter. As software development continues to evolve, there is no doubt that AI is playing an increasingly important role. But what impact does it have on the industry? Brad Hunter, the President and Founder of EmergeLabs, shares his thoughts in a recent podcast episode. According to Brad, AI can be a valuable tool in software development, especially for chat GPT, which can quickly solve problems. However, he notes that AI is not taking over the industry, as some may believe. While it can assist with coding, it cannot replace the need for human expertise and a holistic approach to software development. Brad emphasizes the importance of taking a balanced approach to software development, combining technical skills with a broader understanding of business operations. This allows development teams to create a successful end product considering the client's entire business and long-term strategy. In addition to his insights on AI, Brad also highlights the importance of communication when working with development teams. He suggests that communicating directly with the developers can help avoid misunderstandings and frustration. Over-communicating in the beginning stages of a project is also crucial to ensure that everyone is on the same page. &nbsp; About Brad Hunter: Brad is a skilled professional who solves complex problems through highly-customized software solutions. With expertise in wireless, agriculture, and healthcare industries, Brad's team assists clients in retaking control of their core businesses. They develop scalable software solutions tailored to specific requirements, ensuring user-friendliness and delivering a positive return on investment (ROI) within a few years. Brad's notable projects include Carrier Insight, a solution designed for a 500-location wireless carrier. By leveraging automation, this software replaced an outdated and labour-intensive commission reconciliation process, resulting in over $3 million in annual savings and widespread adoption by 2,500 Verizon locations. &nbsp; About EmergeLabs: EmergeLabs is a client-centric software development company. Direct communication between clients and the entire team eliminates the communication breakdown often seen in conventional project management. The firm boasts an experienced team skilled in developing SaaS platforms and custom solutions, employing a unique methodology prioritizing frequent interaction with clients to keep projects on track. Quality assurance is integral to their service, with rigorous testing procedures guaranteeing a bug-free, secure, and user-friendly product. Their software solutions are scalable and future-proof, designed to adapt to evolving market trends and technological advancements, promoting cost-effectiveness. EmergeLabs places significant importance on customer satisfaction, striving to exceed expectations and foster long-term partnerships. Their services extend beyond development to include comprehensive post-development support. &nbsp; 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 EmergeLabs website at https://emergelabs.us/ Check out EmergeLabs on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/emerge-labs/ Check out Brad Hunter on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder &amp; CEO of Rampiq Agency, Inc, Liudmila Kiseleva. Do you need help generating leads for your IT or SaaS company? Rampiq is a B2B digital marketing agency founded by Liudmila. She shared her insights on the importance of organic growth and content creation in generating leads and the use of AI tools and SEO to improve rankings and conversion rates. But what caught our attention was Ludmilla's emphasis on the power of personalization in content creation. By adding a personal touch to articles, businesses can improve the stickiness of their content and drive more engagement from potential clients. She suggests using personalized CTAs that offer value, such as a free consultation or a relevant case study, to encourage potential clients to book a meeting with your team. Rampiq's blog is a prime example of the power of personalization in content creation. Ludmilla shared an article that has been driving call bookings for their business and explained their content creation process, which involves background research and content recycling to provide practical and valuable resources for their audience. &nbsp; About Liudmila Kiseleva: Liudmila is an accomplished digital marketing professional with extensive experience in online growth strategy planning and execution. She founded Rampiq, a successful company dedicated to helping B2B SaaS and IT companies thrive online. With a team of 20+ skilled digital marketing professionals, Rampiq offers analytics, SEO, paid ads, and content marketing services. They have developed proven frameworks and delivery processes to deliver efficient results despite tight budgets and deadlines. Before Rampiq, Liudmila held various leadership roles in online marketing. She was the CEO and co-founder of QRate, a machine learning-driven recommendation engine that revolutionized finding restaurants for specific occasions. Liudmila's passion for promoting respect, choice, and professional development led her to establish Rampiq as a women-owned and operated business. Liudmila has worked with clients from over 15 countries throughout her career, serving mid to large-scale projects in SEO, paid search, display advertising, remarketing, and web analytics. She has a strong background in business analysis, web analytics, and integrated marketing campaigns. &nbsp; About Rampiq Agency, Inc: Rampiq is a dynamic and results-driven digital marketing agency that leverages data insights to optimize online marketing efforts. With a dedicated team of skilled online marketers, Rampiq excels in conducting thorough research, developing strategic promotional plans, and executing campaigns precisely. Their expertise is maximizing the return on investment for online marketing initiatives, ensuring that every marketing dollar is effectively utilized. By delving deep into data analytics, Rampiq uncovers valuable insights that inform their decision-making process, enabling them to create tailored strategies for each client's unique needs. From search engine optimization (SEO) to paid advertising and content marketing, Rampiq offers a comprehensive range of services designed to drive online campaign success on a large scale. With meticulous attention to detail and commitment to delivering exceptional results, Rampiq has established itself as a trusted partner for businesses looking to achieve maximum impact and growth in the digital landscape. &nbsp; 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 Rampiq Agency Inc. website...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder of Revenue Growth Engine, Darrell Amy. Are you a business owner looking to accelerate your success and take your business to the next level? Look no further than a high-performance revenue growth engine! Darrell Amy, a revenue growth architect and founder/CEO of Revenue Growth Engine, shares his expertise in creating a revenue growth cycle through net new business and cross-selling to existing clients. One key takeaway from the podcast episode is the importance of identifying your ideal clients and engaging with them proactively through a strategic mindset shift. Rather than waiting for leads, businesses should figure out a cadence of outbound marketing and sales to engage with their ideal prospects. Doing so allows you to create a filter to focus on what matters to your ideal clients and prospects and effectively market and sell your products or services. Another crucial component of a high-performance revenue growth engine is understanding your ideal clients' current outcomes and creating an outcomes inventory. By focusing on the results buyers seek rather than just selling products and services, you can remove barriers to growth and accelerate your success. Darrell Amy also emphasizes that every season is an opportunity, but the strategies that worked in the past may not work now. Therefore, having your ears to the ground and pivoting your business accordingly is crucial. Remember, the key to scaling your business is to be proactive, strategic, and open to new ideas and opportunities for growth. &nbsp; About Darrell Amy: Darrell is a seasoned executive specializing in revenue growth strategies. With 27 years of experience in sales and marketing, he's known for assisting businesses in expanding their market presence. Darrell is the author of the best-seller "Revenue Growth Engine" and the co-founder of Convergo, a firm dedicated to aligning marketing and sales efforts for enhanced growth. He's shared his expertise as a trainer for Fortune 500 companies and as an advisor on the Forbes Business Council and the C-Suite Network Advisors team. Darrell hosts the Revenue Growth and Selling From the Heart podcasts and is actively involved in non-profit work, fostering corporate social responsibility. &nbsp; About Revenue Growth Engine: The Revenue Growth Engine is a strategic model designed to scale the revenue of purpose-driven companies, thereby increasing their impact. This methodology primarily helps businesses identify and focus on their Ideal Clients while crafting messaging that resonates with these clients' desired outcomes. To ensure scalability, it is underpinned by creating documented, repeatable sales and marketing processes. The result of employing the Revenue Growth Engine is consistent revenue expansion with Ideal Clients, leading to sustainable business growth. &nbsp; 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 Revenue Growth Engine website at https://www.revenuegrowthengine.com/ Check out Revenue Growth Engine on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/revenue-growth-engine/ Check out Revenue Growth Engine on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/revenuegrowthengine" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO &amp; Founder of Orange Trail Media Ltd, Rohaan Khan. &nbsp; Are you a business struggling with the complexities of social media advertising? Do you face the frustration of restrictions and account bans? Look no further than Orange Trail Media, the agency that promises to navigate these challenges and support businesses of all sizes. CEO and founder Rohaan Khan shared his journey of starting Orange Trail Media after experiencing the pain points of social media advertising himself. With access to agency accounts that offer unlimited spending limits and priority support, Orange Trail Media can help businesses overcome the hurdles of advertising on social media platforms. But what about the eligibility criteria? Orange Trail Media only accepts clean, white-hat advertisers, and businesses must spend a minimum of $10,000 monthly on advertising. However, the agency works with many clients, from those spending millions monthly to smaller businesses. They even provide compliance support for specific verticals, such as CBD and sports betting. The onboarding process is simple, and once approved, clients can expect 24/5 support and the ability to have multiple ad accounts. The fees are affordable, with a monthly charge of $500 and a 3% ad spend. With decentralized agency accounts, Orange Trail Media provides stability and protection for its clients. &nbsp; About Rohaan Khan: Rohaan is a champion of perspicacious entrepreneurship. He believes success hinges on not just spotting opportunities but capitalizing on them effectively. His global perspective, shaped by travels to over 35 countries, infuses his business ideas with cross-cultural nuances. This rich tapestry of experiences informs his decision-making process, enabling him to leverage diversified insights to drive his company forward. Rohaan exemplifies how strategic execution paired with a broad worldview can be a powerful catalyst for innovative leadership and business success. &nbsp; About Orange Trail Media Ltd.: It’s a company founded by experienced professionals who have been transforming businesses for five years. The company has strong ties to top advertising platforms. They provide ad accounts that are only available through their agents. These accounts are designed to lead to success and profitability. Their analytical approach comprises a comprehensive consultation to troubleshoot issues related to landing pages, ad creatives, and Facebook advertising strategies. This tool aids businesses in efficiently expanding their reach through Facebook ads. The firm's widespread success is testament to their tailored quality services and in-depth understanding of the advertising landscape. &nbsp; 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 Orange Trail Media Ltd. website at https://orangetrail.io/ Check out Orange Trail Media Ltd. on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/orange-trail/ Check out Orange Trail Media Ltd. on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/orangetrailmedia Check out Orange Trail Media Ltd. on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/orangetrail.io/ Check out Orange Trail Media Ltd. on Twitter...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder &amp; CEO of Goodman Lantern, Content marketing has been around for decades, but with the advent of AI, there have been significant changes in the industry. Raj Goodman Anand, the founder and CEO of Goodman Lantern, a content marketing company, shares his insights on content marketing trends and strategies. According to Raj, understanding the target market and where they hang out is crucial in creating an effective content marketing strategy. He also suggests having a marketing mix and a forte, such as inbound marketing through SEO, to drive leads. However, capturing potential customers who consume content but do not take action can be challenging. Raj advises identifying where customers are getting stuck in the funnel and bringing them to the next stage to increase conversion rates. He also emphasizes the flywheel effect, where satisfied customers can bring in more business through referrals. What sets Goodman Lantern apart from other content agencies is their apparent mission to empower women in technology and marketing, leading to a team of 80% women. Additionally, having a clear vision for the future, such as going public as a company, has helped to align everyone in the same direction. Raj believes in a long-term strategy rather than quick short-term wins when generating leads through content marketing. Education and thought leadership content is essential for companies selling big-ticket items. &nbsp; About Raj Goodman Anand: Raj fervently advocates for gender equality and women's economic empowerment in the tech industry, with 80% of his team being women. An accomplished engineer and entrepreneur, he's successfully launched three startups, including one acquired venture that generated over £45m in revenue. Beyond startups, Raj's influence extends to large and mid-sized organizations where he's spearheaded new product launches. Honored as BusinessWeek's Europe's Young Entrepreneur (2007) and one of Revolution Magazine's 50 Most Influential People in Digital (2009), Raj is a respected speaker and thought leader. His insights have been shared at prestigious institutions and covered by leading media outlets. &nbsp; About Goodmaan Lantern: Goodman Lantern is a renowned content marketing agency offering comprehensive services from content writing, strategy, and design to motion graphic videos and SEO. Serving clients across five continents, this fast-growing agency assists businesses in establishing industry leadership through compelling storytelling that builds audience trust and drives growth. Goodman Lantern stands out for its commitment to gender equality in tech and marketing, with women making up 90% of its team. This company's Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG) aims to create consistent, reliable, and equitable income opportunities for women in these sectors, aspiring to bring about global change. &nbsp; 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 Goodman Lantern website at https://goodmanlantern.com/ Check out Goodman Lantern on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/goodman-lantern/ Check out Raj Goodman Anand on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rajanand/ Check out Raj Goodman Anand on Twitter at <a href="https://twitter.com/rajanand" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founders of Wake-Up, Shake-Up, Thrive!, Ellen Kocher &amp; Dominique Ben Dhaou. Wake Up Shake Up Thrive is a company and book that aims to challenge the misconception that starting a business after 50 is not exciting. Co-founders and co-CEOs, Ellen Kocher and Dominique Ben Dhao argue that people over 50 are five times more successful in entrepreneurship than younger startups due to their experience, financial stability, and resilience. Their book covers the five dimensions of well-being and guides how to thrive in all of them. They emphasize the importance of aligning with one's purpose and values when starting a business, which becomes easier after 50. The company's website offers free resources, including interviews with successful mothers and two free book chapters. Wake Up Shake Up Thrive provides valuable insights and practical tools for aligning with your purpose, utilizing experience and networks, and prioritizing sustainability. &nbsp; About Dominique Ben Dhaou: She is a Swiss National who has been working in Human Resources leadership roles in international organizations for over 30 years. She has experience in 12 different industries across continents. As the Founder and Managing Director of PointNorth International, she helps professionals and executives reinvent a career that truly fits their experience, values, skills, and purpose. In 2016 and 2017 Dominique was recognized with the Lifetime Achievement Award and Top Professional in Human Resources award by the International Association of Top Professionals. She has her CEB Black Belt in Internal Communications and is an accredited Board of Directors Advisory member. Dominique holds a bachelor’s degree in hospitality management and resides with her family in Geneva Switzerland. &nbsp; About Ellen Kocher: She is an Economist and Certified Workplace Wellness Consultant. Master’s degree in health and Wellness Coaching, ICF PCC, NBHWC, Health and Mindful Eating Coach, Holding multiple global leadership roles in the Workplace Wellness Field. Educated in the USA, Ellen made some major lifestyles change and has dedicated the past 20+ years to walking her talk through workplace well-being, promoting a holistic approach to eating, physical activity, health, resilience, and self-care. Through her company, Whealthness, Ellen has coached hundreds of individuals and groups in dozens of organizations to make sustainable lifestyle changes empowering them to go from knowing what to do to actually doing it! Ellen resides in Geneva Switzerland with her husband and 3 children. &nbsp; About Wake-Up, Shake-Up, Thrive!: It is a powerful resource for the 50+ demographic, helping them understand and navigate the modern paradigm of aging. It seeks to inspire a shift in mindset to embrace future possibilities and provides practical tools to thrive in the present. The initiative acknowledges the substantial presence of this age group, nearly a fifth of the EU workforce, and aims to address both individual and organizational challenges associated with aging. The platform empowers older adults and organizations to capitalize on their rich experience while overcoming potential obstacles through innovative strategies and resources. &nbsp; 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 Wake-Up, Shake-Up, Thrive! website at https://www.wakeupshakeupthrive.com/ Check out Wake-Up, Shake-Up, Thrive! on Linkedin at <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/wakeupshakeupthrive/" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Managing Director of K Wright Consultancy Limited, Keith Wright. Are you aware that procurement is more than just buying things? It can make or break your business! According to Keith, a procurement expert, there are five ways in which procurement can impact your business. First, procurement can help mitigate risks by having the right processes and policies in place. Second, it plays a crucial role in serving customers by ensuring quality products and services. Third, procurement can help save money by negotiating with suppliers and finding the best deals. Fourth, it can help manage growth by having a clear growth plan and collaborating with suppliers. Lastly, procurement is about finding the right balance between risk mitigation, customer service, cost savings, and growth management. Don't neglect procurement and risk losing your business! Keith Wright offers a free introductory call on his website, kwrightconsultancy.co.uk, to help business owners improve their procurement processes. Take advantage of this opportunity and ensure your business thrives! &nbsp; About Keith Wright: Keith is a seasoned entrepreneur and commercial leader with over 30 years of experience in the building industry. Specializing in procurement, he's saved millions through strategic purchasing methods. He established K Wright Consultancy in 2021, which has since helped 22 organizations with combined sales exceeding £3.5bn, streamlining their operations and discovering new value-creation opportunities. Keith also contributes as a non-executive director for a digital start-up and chairs a local charity, demonstrating a commitment to diverse sectors. He's currently writing a book highlighting the often-overlooked power of procurement. His extensive experience and unique insights make him a valuable connection in business growth and strategy. &nbsp; About K Wright Consultancy Limited: K Wright Consultancy Limited is a renowned consulting firm specializing in procurement and category management in the UK building industry. They offer bespoke solutions tailored to business owners, leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors' unique needs. Leveraging deep industry knowledge and strategic buying methods, they help clients streamline operations, uncover savings, and identify growth opportunities. In just two years, they've boosted 22 organizations with a combined sales volume of over £3.5bn, proving their effectiveness. Their personalized approach and commitment to delivering value make them an essential partner for businesses seeking to optimize procurement and enhance business performance. &nbsp; 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 K Wright Consultancy Limited website at https://www.kwrightconsultancy.co.uk/ Check out K Wright Consultancy Limited on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/kwrightconsultancy/ Check out Keith Wright on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/keith-wright-4aa823a8 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.<a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Laura Darrell Leadership Consulting, Laura Darell. Are you considering starting a franchise or taking your existing franchise to the next level? If so, you may consider working with Laura Darrell, a franchisee consultant, and people strategist with years of experience in the industry.   Laura emphasized the importance of leadership in franchise success. She believes that leadership is the "magic sauce" that sets great businesses apart from the rest. Laura works with both franchisors and franchisees to bridge the gap between the two and ensure better collaboration. She encourages businesses to prioritize leadership skills when vetting potential franchisees.   Laura also offers leadership training and people strategy consulting to help businesses thrive, especially after the "Great Resignation" caused by COVID-19. She believes that companies prioritizing their people and building a great culture will be more successful in the long run.   If you want to work with Laura, visit her website, lauradarrellleadership.com. Remember, building a successful franchise takes time and effort, but you can achieve success beyond your wildest dreams with exemplary leadership skills and a focus on your people. &nbsp; About Laura Darell:  Laura is a highly accomplished executive with over 25 years of leadership experience in the franchised space. She has a proven track record of enhancing organizational health, fostering talent development, and building solid relationships with key stakeholders. Laura specializes in various areas, including collaborative relationship building between franchisees and franchisors, designing and implementing adult learning training programs, and leading across generational boundaries, with a specific focus on Generation Z. She excels in developing emotional intelligence among mid and senior-level leaders, managing communication and conflict, and employing systems thinking for evaluation and action research.  Laura is also skilled in designing internal talent development programs, leading organizational change, and implementing strategic business planning. Her expertise and passion make her a valuable leadership and corporate development asset. &nbsp; About Laura Darrell Leadership Consulting:  Laura Darrell Leadership Consulting specializes in fostering better franchisor-franchisee relationships. With 25 years of leadership experience and a Master's Degree in Organizational Leadership, Laura uses inspirational speaking and strategic planning to improve collaborative leadership practices. She draws from her vast experience with iconic brands to enhance team culture and drive results. The company’s tailored approach aids in developing a motivated, result-driven environment. &nbsp; 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 <span...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Owner of Elite CEOS, Tanner Chidester. &nbsp; As a high-performance business leader, it's crucial to prioritize your health and fitness alongside your work demands. Tanner Chidester, the founder of Elite CEOs, recently shared his insights on balancing fitness and business on a popular podcast. He discussed how he pivoted his fitness company into a consulting business for entrepreneurs looking to start or scale their online companies.   One key takeaway from Tanner's interview is that consistency is key to success in both fitness and business. Finding a routine that works for you and sticking to it is crucial. Additionally, focusing on small habits that you can maintain over time is more effective than trying to make drastic changes all at once.   Another critical point Tanner made is that hiring and training a team can be a bottleneck for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses. Seeking out resources like Elite CEOs can help you navigate this process and achieve success.   Ultimately, you can achieve success in both areas by prioritizing your health and fitness alongside your work demands. So, take Tanner's advice and start implementing these strategies today to improve your overall performance. &nbsp; About Tanner Chidester:  Tanner and his team specialize in assisting business owners and fitness professionals to achieve sustainable 7-figure growth. Utilizing proven, battle-tested methods, they provide online and offline scaling strategies. Within a week, they can help increase your client base through the techniques that propelled Tanner's fitness business to 7-figures in under a year, reaching 8 figures. Their expertise promises to predict and enhance your business performance reliably. About Elite CEOS:  Elite CEOs welcome clients regardless of their background or past experiences, extending their services to various industries. They maintain a goal-oriented approach, striving to help clients achieve their objectives. Although no guarantees are provided, as life and business outcomes are unpredictable, they take honor in their potential role in your success. They eagerly anticipate collaborative efforts to help you reach your aspirations. Their diverse clientele and vast industry speak volumes about their adaptability and proficiency in business growth strategies. &nbsp; 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 Elite CEOS website at  https://www.eliteceos.com/ Check out Elite...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Owner &amp; Manager of GELMI - InterPersonal Development, Thomas Gelmi. &nbsp; Leadership is a crucial aspect of any organization, and it's essential to prioritize the human element of it. As a leader, it's not just about managing tasks and delegating responsibilities; it's about connecting with your team members and inspiring them to achieve their best potential. Thomas Gelmi, a renowned leadership coach, emphasizes the importance of being a great human being to become a great leader.   Leaders who prioritize the human aspect of leadership can positively impact their workplaces and beyond. Leaders can build a strong team that works towards a common goal by fostering a culture of empathy, compassion, and inclusivity. Moreover, prioritizing the human aspect of leadership can lead to increased employee engagement, productivity, and retention. So if you're a leader looking to enhance your personal and professional development, seeking Thomas Gelmi's services can be a great option. With his expertise in leadership coaching, he can help you develop the necessary skills to become a great human being and a great leader. &nbsp; About Thomas Gelmi:  Thomas is a seasoned executive coach, facilitator, and consultant who has spent over 20 years supporting the development of leaders and their teams across various industries worldwide. Multilingual, he operates in four languages - German, English, French, and Italian - and leverages his extraordinary life experiences for his work. His noteworthy past includes over seven years as a Maître de Cabine at Swissair and eight years as Operations Director at an international leadership development firm.  Gelmi's rich professional background includes management roles and extensive experience providing psychological support to individuals in crises, equipping him with unique insights into leadership and personal development. &nbsp; About GELMI - InterPersonal Development:  Led by Thomas, it’s a renowned Swiss firm with a 20-year track record of enhancing leadership, teamwork, and customer relations in businesses globally. With a focus on the human dimension of business, Gelmi and his multilingual team work with a diverse range of clients, including major corporations and educational institutions. The firm offers various services, from executive coaching and consulting to online coaching and training. Additionally, they specialize in designing multilingual learning and development programs, leadership development, and facilitating blended and e-learning experiences. Their proven proficiency, extensive international references, and global professional network make GELMI a reliable partner for personal development and learning projects. &nbsp; 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 GELMI - InterPersonal

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; CEO of The EffortLESS Life®, Courtney Elmer. &nbsp; Anti-fragile entrepreneurship is a concept that can help you build a business that can sustain itself and grow beyond your efforts. Courtney Elmer, CEO and founder of The Effortless Life shared her journey as an entrepreneur and offered insights on creating leverage and avoiding burnout. The 5 steps to building an anti-fragile business are: define success on your terms, run the numbers, approach decision-making logically, build systems for your business, and learn from difficult periods.  You can create an anti-fragile business that can sustain itself beyond your efforts through the 5 steps. Check out Courtney's The Effortless Life Co website for resources and support in developing your anti-fragile business.  &nbsp; About Courtney Elmer:  Courtney is a highly regarded consultant, speaker, and podcast host. Her firm enables entrepreneurs to grow resiliently, enhancing their income, influence, and impact. Leveraging her psychology background and cancer survival experience, she helps digital business leaders build self-sustaining, thriving enterprises.  Courtney's globally ranked Anti-Fragile Entrepreneurship&#x2122; podcast features industry experts, offering insights on leveraging adversity for growth. She's also a notable speaker at industry conferences and a trusted advisor for Forbes, Fast Company, and PopSugar teams. Her podcast was ranked #2 by Small Biz Trends. She resides in New Orleans with her family. About The EffortLESS Life®:  The EffortLESS Life® is a consulting firm specializing in business systematization and visionary leadership. They assist entrepreneurs in streamlining workflows, fostering strong team dynamics, and achieving business freedom. Forbes, YFS, Business News Daily, PopSugar, Thrive Global, Buzzfeed, and numerous others have recognized their expertise in business systems. The organization focuses on establishing suitable systems, structure, and support for its clients, removing limitations on influence, income, and impact, and promoting its clients as visionary leaders. Their unique strength lies in enabling entrepreneurs to spend more time in their zone of genius, thereby augmenting business productivity and growth. &nbsp; 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 EffortLESS Life® website at  https://www.theeffortlesslife.co/ Check out The EffortLESS Life® on Instagram at  https://instagram.com/theeffortlesslife.co Check out Courtney Elmer on LinkedIn at  <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO &amp; Lead Strategist of The Creative Copywriter, Konrad Sanders. &nbsp; Have you ever wondered what makes an excellent copy? How can you create copy that captures attention and converts into sales?  Konrad shares how his agency blends data-driven content strategy and psychology with creative copywriting to help big brands like TikTok, Adidas, and Mercedes-Benz sell more. But, their bread and butter are helping startups and scale-ups grow predictable revenue using the power of words. So, what's the secret of effective copywriting? According to Konrad, it's all about avoiding cliches, keeping the balance right, and using a human, conversational tone. He emphasizes the importance of focusing on benefits rather than features and using data to inform copywriting decisions. But perhaps the most crucial aspect of effective copywriting is understanding your audience. Konrad explains his agency's approach of conducting buyer interviews and gathering insights to understand the audience's pain points, desires, objections, and buying journey. He emphasizes the importance of using the audience's language in copywriting to increase conversion rates. &nbsp; About Konrad Sanders:  Konrad is the dynamic leader of The Creative Copywriter, a rapidly expanding content strategy and copywriting agency. He and his skilled team combine creativity with strategic insights to craft compelling content that boosts sales. They have successfully collaborated with global brands like Adidas, TikTok, and Thomson Reuters. Konrad aims to eliminate corporate monotony, using 'real talk,' 'word science,' and creative calculations to help brands stand out in crowded markets. &nbsp; About The Creative Copywriter:  The Creative Copywriter (TCC) is a fast-growing copywriting and content strategy agency that merges creativity and strategic science. Operating globally, TCC assists significant brands such as Adidas, Hyundai, and Tik Tok in creating compelling, high-converting content. The agency, headed by CEO Konrad Sanders and MD Nitzan Regev-Sanders, applies innovative methodologies like "The 13 Lenses" to analyze and refine copy. This tool effectively answers the question, "Is this copy powerful enough?". With this blend of artistic flair and scientific analysis, TCC helps brands strengthen their identity and impact at every stage of the marketing funnel. &nbsp; 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 Creative Copywriter website at  https://www.creative-copywriter.net/ Check out The Creative Copywriter<span...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Co-Founder of The Shift Spot, Ken Paskins. Are you a CEO struggling to scale your business? Look no further than The Shift Spot. Ken Paskins, CEO coach and peer community leader, shares his insights on the importance of leadership, critical thinking, and self-care. One key takeaway? Encourage your employees to think creatively and take ownership of their work. And don't forget about yourself - invest in personal growth and join a supportive community. Check out The Shift Spot for resources to help you and your business thrive. About Ken Paskins: Ken Paskins is a co-founder of The Shift Spot, a tech startup focused on transforming remote work. With a background in technology and business, Ken brings a unique perspective to his role. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Computer Science and has experience in software development, project management, and business strategy. Ken's entrepreneurial journey began with the co-founding of The Shift Spot, driven by a desire to address the challenges of remote work. Under his leadership, the platform has gained recognition for its tools and features that enhance productivity and communication for remote teams. Ken is also an influential figure in the remote work space, sharing his insights at industry conferences and contributing to publications. His ideas and solutions have gained a following, establishing him as a trusted authority in the field. Ken is passionate about creating a more flexible work environment and continues to shape the future of remote work. Through his work, he inspires individuals and organizations to embrace the potential of technology in improving the way we work. &nbsp; About The Shift Spot: The Shift Spot is a renowned wellness center that caters to the unique needs of business executives, offering specialized programs to enhance their leadership skills while prioritizing their overall well-being. The Shift Spot provides a sanctuary where executives can find respite and embark on a transformative journey towards becoming more effective and fulfilled leaders. With a team of seasoned professionals, The Shift Spot offers a holistic approach that combines mindfulness practices, executive coaching, and leadership development techniques. These tailored services are designed to address the specific challenges faced by executives in today's fast-paced business environment. The Shift Spot recognizes that by prioritizing the well-being of executives, they can unlock their full potential as leaders. By incorporating mindfulness, stress reduction techniques, and personal growth practices, executives can cultivate self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and resilience. These qualities empower executives to make better decisions, communicate more effectively, and inspire their teams. &nbsp; 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 Shift Spot website at https://www.theshiftspot.com/ Check out The Shift Spot on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-shift-spot?trk=public_profile_experience-item_profile-section-card_subtitle-click Check out The Shift Spot on Facebook at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/TheShiftSpot" target="_blank"...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; CEO of Hackett Brand Consulting, Megan Prejzner. &nbsp; Are you tired of feeling like another business in a sea of competitors? Do you want to stand out and make a meaningful impact in your industry? Look no further than Meg Prejzner, founder, and CEO of Hackett Brand Consulting. Meg shared her insights on purpose-driven branding and marketing. For Meg, branding goes beyond just logos and colors. It's about understanding your brand's story, vision, and mission. It's about having a north star, a guiding principle that helps streamline decision-making and align you with your purpose. Meg encourages individuals and businesses to show up as their whole human selves and let their personalities shine through in their marketing output. It's about infusing your values and purpose into everything you do and making difficult decisions to stay true to them, even if it means letting go of some clients and revenue. At Hackett Brand Consulting, Meg and her team specialize in helping emerging and challenger brands on the cusp of change, whether they need a brand refresh or are breaking into a new market. Their services include monthly or quarterly consultations, retainer services, PR, content marketing, social media, graphic design, creative services, and paid media. &nbsp; About Megan Prejzner: Meg is an entrepreneur, mindset coach and brand builder who has worked with more than 100 brands across a dozen industries to grow their business. She is an award-winning strategist and the CEO and Founder of Hackett Brand Consulting, a digital agency for purpose-driven brands, and MegPrez.com, where she helps entrepreneurs find their purpose, be an unshakeable force for good in the world, and turn their passion into profits. &nbsp; About Hackett Brand Consulting: They are a leading marketing and brand consultancy focusing on social good. Specializing in brand strategy and marketing roadmaps, they support businesses at all stages, from startups to well-established brands poised for their next growth phase. Their expertise fosters purpose-driven, social-impact brands, driving growth at the intersection of brand and marketing. Guided by a conviction that their work can shape the future, they partner with organizations advocating for local communities and social change. Their ultimate goal is to build marketing programs that drive business results and make a positive global impact, enhancing the satisfaction derived from their work. &nbsp; 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 Hackett Brand Consulting website at https://www.hackettbrandconsulting.com/ Check out Hackett Brand Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hackett-brand-consulting/ Check out Megan Prejzner on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/megprejzner/ Check out Megan Prejzner on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/meg.prez Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! &nbsp; More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur.<a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Jimmy Burroughes Leadership, Jimmy Burroughes. Burnout is a common issue in workplaces worldwide, affecting both employees and leaders. However, there are ways to prevent it and build a high-performance organizational culture. Jimmy Burrows, the founder of Jimmy Burrows Leadership, shared five strategies. These include identifying unnecessary tasks, disconnecting from technology to access the subconscious, creating meaningful work, assessing five variables in your routine, and practicing self-care. Burnout can have long-term effects on your personal and professional life, so it's crucial to take action to prevent it. Implementing these strategies can reduce stress, increase motivation and engagement, and improve your overall well-being. Remember to assess your routine regularly and prioritize self-care to prevent burnout in the workplace. &nbsp; About Jimmy Burroughes: Jimmy, an ex-British Military Officer and successful global people leader, is revolutionizing team leadership. Dissatisfied with traditional methods that lead to burnout and underperformance, Jimmy devised a unique approach to create high-performance cultures. This research-based program enhances profit and staff engagement and prevents burnout. It's explicitly designed for leaders aiming to optimize their potential without compromising personal life or team well-being. An avid scuba diver and hill runner, Jimmy divides his time between the beach and central Mexico, constantly on the hunt for new property projects alongside his partner and dog. Jimmy is transforming the leadership landscape with his diverse experience and innovative methods. &nbsp; About Jimmy Burroughes Leadership: Jimmy Burroughes Leadership specializes in aiding leaders to significantly improve their business outcomes without increasing their workload. The focus is on fostering a team culture emphasizing trust, connection, and performance. Rather than advocating for more intricate work, it promotes more innovative work by creating a supportive and cooperative environment. This philosophy roots in the belief that such a culture leads to enhanced business results and a more engaged and productive team. Leveraging Jimmy's military and corporate leadership experience, his approach offers a novel and effective pathway to business transformation. The ultimate goal is to help leaders unlock their full potential while ensuring a balanced and fulfilling work-life dynamic. 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 Jimmy Burroughes Leadership website at https://jimmyburroughes.com/ Check out Jimmy Burroughes Leadership on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/jimmyburroughesleadership/ Check out Jimmy Burroughes Leadership on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/jimmybleadership Check out Jimmy Burroughes Leadershipl on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/103286358458178 Check out Jimmy Burroughes Leadership on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@jimmybleadership Check out Jimmy Burroughes on LinkedIn at <a...

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder &amp; CEO of Elevated Human Experience, Yun Rhee. Yun Rhee, the Chief Empowering Officer and Energy Expert at Elevated Human Experience shares her expertise in understanding paradigms and energy to help individuals create balance, love, and prosperity. One of the key takeaways from the episode is the importance of authenticity and transparency in today's world. Young emphasizes the need for sales professionals to be mindful of their energy and how they show up in business transactions. She also encourages listeners to become aware of their desires and permit themselves to pursue them without guilt or shame. She also offers coaching programs and a mastermind but notes that qualification is required for the latter. Young's ultimate goal is to help her clients achieve their goals while promoting balance in life. So, take the first step towards personal growth and development by listening to this episode and implementing Young's insights and strateg ies. Remember, you have the power to attract the life you deserve. &nbsp; About Yun Rhee: Yun is the founder and CEO of The Elevated Human Experience and Overflow Mastermind Group, a dynamic powerhouse of positivity and energy. As a Coach's Coach and Leader's Leader, she empowers clients to realize their potential and achieve personal definitions of success. Yun is also a renowned real estate investor who has owned multiple businesses, demonstrating sales, recruiting, and training expertise. Her impactful work with the Matrix Success Network led her to become a leading Consultant for the Proctor-Gallagher Institute. A compelling speaker and energy healer, Yun lives in Massachusetts with her husband, Matthew Swierk, and their two daughters. Her dedication to influencing humanity positively is unwavering. &nbsp; About Elevated Human Experience: The Elevated Human Experience is a transformative initiative to empower individuals to tap into their higher selves and embrace their truth without judgment. Its vision is a world of abundant living where self-discovery and personal potential are foremost. The mission is to raise human consciousness by helping people unlock their infinite potential, comprehend energy and paradigms, and realize the universal truths of unlimited abundance and intentional living. The Elevated Human Experience seeks to guide individuals toward living a life by design, underpinned by a profound understanding of their purpose and the inherent abundance of life. &nbsp; 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 Elevated Human Experience website at https://www.elevatedhumanexperience.com/ Check out Elevated Human Experience on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elevated-human-experience/ Check out Yun Rhee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/yun-rhee-901137122/ Check out Yun Rhee on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/yun.rhee/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! &nbsp; More from...