AmiSights: Financing the Future For Small Business Owners and Entrepreneurs

In this special 200th episode of AmiSights, we mix things up—Ami interviews his brother Barak, and Barak interviews Ami. The two dive into their entrepreneurial journeys, shaped by their immigrant background, and explore how risk tolerance plays a role in both business and life. They discuss recent SBA rule changes that impact immigrant entrepreneurs and reflect on the importance of understanding different risk profiles in relationships, both personal and professional.“We saw a lot of people coming to this country, and not all of them, but many of them, taking on different entrepreneurial journeys. We watched them sweat it out and get going. I think that being a part of that immigrant culture also must have—I know it had a lot of impact on me, and I imagine it did on all of us.”In today's episode, we explore how being part of the immigrant culture shaped the brothers' path into entrepreneurship, how an entrepreneur's background plays a critical role in determining their risk tolerance, and how the differences between life and business partners can actually strengthen a business rather than hinder it.Connect with Barak: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barak/Check out BKW Partners: https://www.linkedin.com/company/bkw-partners/Recorded on 3/28/25

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Dr. Sherry Walling, founder and clinical psychologist at ZenFounder, which helps entrepreneurs thrive in business and in life by avoiding burnout and isolation. Dr. Sherry Walling discusses the mental health challenges of entrepreneurs, focusing on the importance of self-awareness, building a supportive team, and maintaining friendships outside of work.“I think it's really important for entrepreneurs to recognize their spouse as their first investor, the first person who said yes to their harebrained idea… The presence of a business is a little bit like the presence of a mistress, right? It's this ever present other thing that is absorbing the attention.”We explore why building a healthy company should not revolve around one person, but instead be systematized in a way that allows it to grow, thrive, and exist independently of the founder. We also discuss the importance of entrepreneurs being well-rounded, with interests and relationships outside of their business, and why securing full buy-in from a significant other is essential before starting an entrepreneurial journey.Connect with Dr. Sherry Walling: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/Check out ZenFounder: https://zenfounder.com/Recorded on 3/13/2025

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Michael Hsu, founder and CEO of DeepSky, an outsourced accounting team that specializes in digital agencies, IT outsourcing companies, and digital media properties. He explains why his mission is to “keep it simple” when helping small business owners with their finances.“Entrepreneurs are incredibly smart. If they know what the problem is, if they know what they need to work on, they can solve it. The problem is that, most of the time, they have no clue. They have no clue that they have a cash flow problem. They have no clue that they have a profit problem. They have no clue that they have an accountability problem, or any of that matter. So, it's just helping them to identify what the problem is.”In today's episode, we'll discuss why it's crucial for entrepreneurs to focus on understanding the bottom line instead of getting caught up solely in top-line revenue, emphasizing the importance of mastering financial basics before layering on the more complex ideas often promoted in the business world. We'll also explore how employees around the globe face similar challenges, regardless of their location.Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wmichaelhsu/Check out DeepSky: https://www.linkedin.com/company/deepsky/Recorded on 2/11/25

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Sue Meitner, president and founder of Centennial Lending Group (CLG), a full-service mortgage lender providing mortgage loans for new home purchases and/or refinances. She explains why she sold her company in 2018 and how she enjoys her new role on the “other side.”“We definitely have a shortage of housing. We're not pre-COVID, and our shortage of housing and the demographic of the different generations moving into homeownership, there's not going to be enough houses for them. I do think that interest rates should be lower than they are right now, but I don't think we're going to see interest rates lower this year.” In today's episode, we'll explore the key differences between securing a mortgage through a big bank versus a dedicated mortgage company, highlighting the benefits and challenges of each. We'll also discuss why a significant portion of Sue's mortgage company focuses on serving self-employed individuals, addressing their unique financial needs. Finally, we'll dive into the impact of social media and AI on the real estate industry, examining how these technologies are shaping the way professionals connect with clients and streamline the home-buying process.Connect with Sue: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-meitner/Check out Centennial Lending Group: https://clghomeloans.com/Recorded on 1/31/25

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Mark Worster,founder of The New Mysteries, a transformative global community that uses plant medicine and methods such as breathing to guide people on their journey of self-discovery and liberation.Mark started his entrepreneurial journey in the IT space before he entered the transformative medicine realm. As an entrepreneur of several successful companies, he explains how no matter what system you have in place, you still need a base foundation with your finances.  “You got to have the base firm and solid,” he said. “If you're going to build off of a base where you have no idea really what's going on financially with your business,  you can't make accurate decisions on strategy.”Today's episode explores how adversity in Mark's previous businesses prepared him for his current venture in the alternative healthcare field, the crucial role yoga and meditation have played in shaping his mindset to navigate challenges, and how transcendence—the level beyond life's basic needs—helps people see beyond the preconceived science of events.Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markworster/Check out The New Mysteries: https://www.thenewmysteries.org/MultiFunding does not endorse or oppose any specific techniques, products, or services discussed on the AmiSights Podcast. Our goal is to provide a platform for open dialogue and diverse perspectives and discussion.Recorded on 2/4/25

In this conversation, Jessica Munday shares her entrepreneurial journey, discussing her dual roles as the founder of Trio Solutions Inc. and Partner of Cloud Nine Nonprofit Advisors. She emphasizes the importance of team culture, client relationships, and the impact of AI on marketing. Jessica also reflects on the challenges of balancing work and family life, the significance of mentorship, and her experiences during the pandemic. The discussion highlights her commitment to helping nonprofits and small businesses thrive while maintaining a strong company culture.Connect with Jessica: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jmunday/Check out Trio Marketing: https://www.linkedin.com/company/trio-solutions-inc/Check out Cloud Nine Nonprofit Advisors: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thrivewithcloud9/Recorded on 1/17/25

In this week's episode, we talk to Scott Eisenberg, Founder and Managing Director of Franklin Capital Advisors, a firm specializing in mergers, acquisitions, and restructuring for small and lower middle-market businesses. In this conversation, Scott shares his extensive experience in M&A, discussing the complexities of evaluating businesses for sale, identifying buyer types, and emphasizing the importance of understanding business value. “The more planning you can put into it, the more you can do things to, get the business ready for sale. Maybe you've got your financial statements, your financial reporting function isn't really strong—you can fix that. Maybe you've got a couple of customers you kind of are trying to get contracts in place and get those contracts in place. estate planning—maybe your estate planning is in place, maybe it's not. there's a lot of things you can do to plan.” The main topics of today's episode include why those looking to sell their business—whether to someone within the company or externally—should always have an advisor, the importance of determining if the business is sellable and envisioning how the transition will look, and the key differences in the process of working with companies that need to sell versus those that choose to sell. Connect with Scott: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scotteisenbergfranklin/ Recorded on 1/14/25

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to David Becker, founder and CEO of First Internet Bank. He explains why he started the online bank way before internet banking became a common convenience and shares his insights on how AI is revolutionizing the financial industry. “I think the power of AI will be more revolutionary than the Internet was 25 years ago. A lot of people are scared to death... You, as the human, will get to decipher that data, take out the results, and resolve problems. So you'll get to actually do tasks that the machine can't do, while it takes care of the mundane stuff. This should make productivity go up. It allows people to really use their minds and do creative, good work—not just task-oriented transactions. So, I think in the next 3 to 5 years, we're going to see changes we never dreamed of.” The main topics of today's episode include how Becker keeps banking innovative by hiring outside the traditional banking talent pool, the value of hiring great people even without an immediate role as a smart long-term strategy, and Becker's perspective on why artificial intelligence is poised to revolutionize the industry in the next three to five years. Connect with David: https://www.linkedin.com/in/david-becker-29bb679/ Check out First Internet Bank: https://www.linkedin.com/company/first-internet-bank/posts/?feedView=all Recorded on 1/3/25

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Ed Robinson, Founder and President of Capacity Building Solutions and Vistage Chair for six CEO peer groups in the Baltimore area. He shares insights on how he successfully manages and supports so many top executives. “We're dealing with a silver tsunami. There's more businesses that are going to sell. If you believe the data, there's more businesses that are going to change hands in the next 5 to 10 years than have changed hands in the last 20 because of the age of entrepreneurs and business owners. So now there's going to be a bunch of deals flooding the market with a bunch of people who've been counting on this deal to get out. That's why I tell my folks: don't put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to your business.” The main topics of today's episode include the ongoing challenge small businesses face in finding and retaining talent, the importance of executives admitting when they don't have all the answers and seeking advice from peers, and the anticipated burst of economic activity expected in the first and second quarters of 2025. Connect with Ed: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edrobinson/ Check out Capacity Building Solutions Inc: https://capacity-building.com/ Recorded on 12/2/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we speak with Natalia Matveeva, the Founder of PeakGenesis, a mentorship platform designed to empower entrepreneurs by helping them unlock their unique superpowers and align their inner strengths with business strategies and industry trends. Natalia also shares the story behind her decision to sell her gaming business, Realore, in 2017, at the height of its success. “Because you have to understand, 20 percent of players make 80 percent of your income. So, you only make money from those who are addicted, who buy games non-stop, and play them non-stop. And it got me thinking: what is the purpose of my life? Am I here just to get people addicted and make money from that? Or is there something beyond that? If there is something beyond, what is it? What can I do to create a positive change?” Natalia shares her entrepreneurial journey and her realization on how we use our unique gifts determines the level of fulfillment we experience in life. She emphasizes the importance of managing energy and focusing it in the present to successfully navigate the ever-changing business landscape. Additionally, Natalia discusses why connecting with other entrepreneurs is essential for gaining fresh perspectives and seeing your business through a new lens. Connect with Natalia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natalia-matveeva-a8b158/ Check out PeakGenesis: https://peakgenesis.com/ Recorded on 11/15/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Richard Walton, founder of Outsell Sales, a company specializing in helping B2B businesses succeed with outbound sales development. Richard shares why he champions traditional marketing activities over relying solely on online networking.“The traditional marketing back in the '80s was all about meeting people, shaking people's hands, and then somehow we got lazy…technology made us lazy,” he said. “I help our clients go back to the '80s, and I help them embrace more traditional marketing activities and to use technology to be very successful.” Today's episode explores key insights for business professionals, particularly in sales. We'll discuss the importance of using a broad suite of approaches to keep customers engaged, the shift from being seen as just a supplier to positioning yourself as a trusted partner, and how writing can help entrepreneurs clarify their thoughts and sharpen their strategic thinking. Connect with Richard: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardwalton2/ Check out Outsell Sales: https://outsellsales.com/ Recorded on 11/13/24

In this week's episode of the AmiSights Podcast, we speak with Nir Zavaro, founder and CEO of Streetwise, a marketing company based in Tel Aviv, Israel. Nir, also an author, shares the inspiration behind the eye-opening title of his latest book, F*ck the Slides: Creating a Winning Pitch Using Storytelling Techniques. “I thought I can bring something new to that industry. And that's when I started my consulting company. And I started to fix businesses like that. And within 2 or 3 years, I became one of the top 5 in the country. So, take the bad things, learn from them, and understand that most of the time people will do roughly the same thing because that's how they got used to doing it. That's how the industry is." Today's episode explores how a failed business venture provided Nir with the valuable experience needed to start his own consulting company, the power of selling an experience or emotion to drive business success beyond just the product, and the critical role unique storytelling techniques play in building a successful brand. Connect with Nir: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nirzavaro/ Subscribe to Nir's Newsletter: https://storyletter.beehiiv.com/Recorded on 11/1/2024

In this week's AmiSights Podcast, we dive into Joe McAleer's journey and experience as Senior Director of Business Financing at MultiFunding. Joe talks about how he knew MultiFunding was the right fit from his first visit 11 years ago. He shares insights into MultiFunding's unique approach, where the team acts as analysts first to ensure every loan opportunity is carefully evaluated and presented in the best light. “We are so hands-on; you know we are analysts before we are brokers. We dig in, we understand things, and we make sure that we're positioning an opportunity—or a loan request—in the best light possible. We also focus on understanding potential hurdles, the rules and regulations, and how we're going to guide and advise people. Ultimately, we position them with the best resources to create success." We discuss key insights from MultiFunding, including how the team's approach focuses on thorough analysis before acting as brokers, ensuring they position each loan request in the best light possible. We also explore how a prospective business buyer's personal debt and financial needs impact their loan eligibility, as well as the unpredictable journey of running a business, which often follows the natural ebbs and flows rather than a straight line. Connect with Joe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-p-mcaleer-42939085/ Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://www.multifunding.com/contact-us Recorded on 10/18/24

This week, we're thrilled to welcome Nirit Cohen, a leading HR strategist and thought leader on the Future of Work. With 30 years of global experience at Intel in HR and M&A leadership, Nirit bridges emerging trends with actionable insights to help organizations thrive in an evolving landscape. She's a Forbes columnist, author, and sought-after speaker with deep expertise in workforce transformation. Tune in for an eye-opening conversation on the trends shaping tomorrow's workforce and how to future-proof your career and organization. “Back is not a direction into the future. And saying, Let's go back into the office or back to the way things were, because frankly, if we're honest, they weren't that t right. We talked about work-life balance for a really long time. We talked about women not participating in the workforce because of families. We talked about diversity issues because some people don't fit into the boxes of how we defined work. So we need to redesign. And we need to redesign given the tools we have, which give us more choices, and more flexibility, and more personalization." Today's episode covers how the COVID-19 pandemic has reshaped the future of work for both employers and employees, expanding the talent pool for those open to redefining how and where work can be done. We'll also discuss the evolving social contract of work, especially as new generations enter the workforce with different expectations. Connect with Nirit: https://www.linkedin.com/in/niritcohen/ Subscribe to Nirit's Newsletter: https://niritcohen.substack.com/?r=39zw1x&utm_campaign=subscribe-page-share-screen&utm_medium=web Recorded on 9/5/2024

In this week's episode of the AmiSights Podcast, Ami has the pleasure of interviewing co-host Lynn Ozer, President of MultiFunding and fondly referred to as the "SBA Queen." Tune in as Lynn shares her journey to MultiFunding, which began about three and a half years ago, leading her to a role where she could support the incredible group of lenders that Ami assembled and connect with the entrepreneurs who turn to MultiFunding for guidance. “They always say when a door closes, a window opens,” she said. “Well, this was the best window I ever walked through and found myself in a position to be of assistance to the group of incredible lenders that Ami had put together, and also to be able to meet the world of entrepreneurs that come to MultiFunding for information.” Today's episode dives into the differences between corporate and small business management layers and decision-making, highlighting how, in corporate America, rising in the ranks often means getting further from the actual product being delivered. We'll also discuss the need for better systems to monitor and track how SBA lenders treat clients facing challenges. Connect with Lynn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynn-ozer/ Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://www.multifunding.com/contact-us Recorded on 10/8/2024

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, Ami talks with Erik Nilsen, Senior Vice President of Digital Strategic Partnerships at Owners Bank. Erik has a deep Product Management & Digital Banking background that was acquired from years of banking and fintech leadership. He is responsible for acquiring and managing strategic partnerships that help with the growth of Owners Bank. Owners Bank is a division of Liberty Bank based in Middletown, CT, which is one of the most innovative and established banks in the country. We've been looking for a bank that offers our clients lines of credit along with great technology, and that's exactly what Owners Bank provides. A good bank isn't just about taking deposits and managing a tech platform; it also plays a key role in providing credit. Owners Bank delivers no BS banking to entrepreneurs. We will launch our partnership at the upcoming EO Xcentric conference in Fort Worth. Owners Bank is currently open for business in Texas, Georgia, Florida, North Carolina, South Carolina, Pennsylvania, Connecticut, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. We will start in these states and move forward together. Eric talks about how Owners Bank is redefining small business banking, making it simple for business owners. "We have real people that will pick up the phone when you call, and you're not going to go through an extensive call tree all over the country and different time zones. We predicate ourselves on that high-tech, high-touch approach. If you have questions, you're going to get a real person. We try to be really upfront and focus on the experience.” Now there is finally a bank that gets you, with tailored products and services that make things easier for business owners with none of the BS. The main topics of today's episode include the vision behind empowering entrepreneurs, addressing the gap in small business banking, leveraging technology to provide a seamless banking experience, and the origins of Owners Bank. Click here to learn more about our partnership with Owners Bank: https://bit.ly/3YquWxU Connect with Erik Nilsen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erik-nilsen-a980622/ Recorded on 9/8/2024

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, Heather Hoover and Julie Zarr discuss their roles and experiences at MultiFunding. From navigating the world of finance to providing tailored solutions for small businesses, they explain how working with passionate entrepreneurs makes their jobs both rewarding and exciting. Tune in to learn how these amazing women found their way to MultiFunding and why they love being a part of each client's success story! “We never have a boring day. When you learn about the blood, sweat, and tears that our clients have put into building their businesses, and hear how they've navigated ups and downs through different economic cycles, their passion for what they do is inspiring. For us, being solutions-oriented and helping them achieve their next goal is incredibly fulfilling.” In today's episode, we explore several key topics, including how having hundreds of credit boxes, rather than just one, provides many more opportunities for MultiFunding's customers. We also discuss how lower interest rates and economic stabilization are driving business startups and acquisitions. Additionally, we highlight how teamwork enhances MultiFunding's efficiency, enabling the team to offer more solutions to clients. Connect with Heather: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heather-hoover-63921b100/ Connect with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-zarr-b3762a19/ Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://bit.ly/3XErUUP Recorded on 9/20/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Albert Fialkovich, President and Managing Partner of the Prospere Companies owner of Transworld Business Advisors of Colorado; Texas: Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth Central & Waco; Nevada: Las Vegas South and Transworld Commercial Real Estate. Tune in as he shares how his father's experience with not selling his business and the challenges he faced with a broker while trying to sell his own inspired him to become highly productive in the industry. "A lot of these deals, when you're good at them, are about finesse, and that's to get a deal closed and know the right partners—like how to talk to a client—because business owners, including myself, are lunatics." In today's episode, we'll dive into the current trends in the business brokerage industry, sharing predictions on how the field will evolve with technological advancements and shifting market demands. We'll also feature inspiring stories from clients who successfully bought or sold their businesses through Transworld Colorado, showcasing the transformative impact of these transactions. Additionally, we'll explore how success is measured not just by closing deals, but by how these transactions create jobs and inject money into the local economy. Connect with Albert: https://www.linkedin.com/in/albertfialkovich/ Check out Transworld Business Advisors of Colorado: https://www.tworld.com/locations/colorado/ Recorded on 8/27/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we speak with Robin Huling, founder of Warner Communication, which delivers transformative workshops and consultancy services. Robin discusses how she transformed her skills into a successful business, driven by her passion for team building and leadership training, along with her deep expertise in DISC theory. “I think what holds people back is the thing that they don't know about, and they're too afraid to ask, and they don't know the different paths that they are able to take on their own,” she said. “I had no idea that my experience and the training that I had would really bridge well into a personal consulting business and that I didn't need to work for a company or a corporation.” In today's episode, we will cover how an entrepreneur doesn't always have to sell a product but can instead sell their skillset and knowledge. We'll also introduce DISC theory and explore how understanding personality types can enhance team dynamics and leadership effectiveness. Lastly, we'll discuss how poor communication between leaders and employees can negatively impact the bottom line. Connect with Robin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-huling-676908153/ Check out Warner Communication: https://warnercommunication.com/ Recorded on 8/26/24

On this week's episode of the AmiSights Podcast, Fran Miller and Nick Lasorsa from MultiFunding's loan team join Ami and Lynn to discuss the company's culture and mission, along with their experiences navigating the ups and downs of the financing industry. “You have to have all the tools in your tool shed and be comfortable and sort of get your hands dirty to a degree,” Miller said. “And being in that position, I think, simply put, it's not for everybody. There's ebbs and flows of this business…some can ride that wave and others don't enjoy that up and down.” The main topics of today's episode include how making mistakes early in your career can serve as valuable learning opportunities for growth, the transition from a highly process-oriented corporate environment to a small, creative, hands-on company, and how learning on the fly—especially during COVID—helped the company grow and diversify. Connect with Fran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/francis-miller-51116389/ Connect with Nick: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicholas-lasorsa-aa2230268/ Interested in growing your business? Get started with one of our advisors today: https://bit.ly/3XErUUP Recorded on 8/6/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Morgan Katz, founder and CEO of Ticketnology, a company that works with executives across multiple industries to ease the frustration of corporate ticketing. She explains why she started the company five years ago.  “So during that very long intermission, it was what am I going to do to be relevant to come out? And that's when we transformed to a ticket to a technology company, and so in late 2020 we started building software. We re-rolled out in April of 21 as a software company a ticket management platform.” Tune in as we explore how the company successfully transitioned into a ticket technology business when events were canceled during the pandemic, highlighting the adaptability required during challenging times. We'll also discuss how sending personalized packages has proven to be a more effective marketing tool for the company compared to sending blind emails to prospects. Finally, we dive into why entrepreneurs should consider taking more significant risks after they've established their business, rather than during the early stages. Connect with Morgan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morgan-denton-katz/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/ticketnology/ Website : www.ticketnology.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ticketnology/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ticketnology/ Recorded on 5/24/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Tim McDiarmid, Coach & Consultant, Founder/Owner of The Good Kind Hospitality Group, Co-Founder at The Bravery Strategy, and owner of Tim the Girl Catering. She describes how she became an “accidental entrepreneur.” "The reason, what gets me up, what made me love this business, is people. People, experiences, being able to create things, interesting, unique experiences for people. And I've worked in hospitality most of my life. And I genuinely love to see when things come together." The main topics of today's episode will explore how treating fear as a protector and advisor can prepare you for challenging situations, the importance of diversifying your business to handle unexpected changes in your core operations, and how building a stronger connection with your physical voice while tapping into different aspects of your personality can lead to better decision-making. Connect with Tim: https://www.linkedin.com/in/timthegirl/ Check out The Bravery Strategy: https://thebraverystrategy.com/ Check out The Good Kind Hospitality Group: https://eatgoodkind.com/ Check out Tim the Girl: https://www.timthegirl.com/ Recorded on 7/3/2024

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Adam Silberstein, a YPO and EO retreat facilitator and co-founder of The Local Leaders Collective, which offers a peer group experience and community for entrepreneurs. He explains how focusing on holistic health has helped entrepreneurs get through tough times such as the pandemic.  "Anybody who is an entrepreneur, anybody who owns a business and is not in a peer group, I think you're at a severe disadvantage of not accessing information, not only support but also learning how other people run their businesses." In today's episode, we will explore how treating fear as both a protector and advisor can better prepare you for challenging situations. We'll discuss the importance of diversifying your business to safeguard against unexpected changes in your core operations. Additionally, we'll delve into why building a stronger relationship with your physical voice and tapping into various aspects of your personality can enhance your decision-making process. Connect with Adam: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-silberstein-19678414/ Check out The Local Leaders Collective: https://thelocalleaders.com/ Recorded on 7/1/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Joe Trave, Owner & CEO at Village Handcrafted Cabinetry, which makes customized high-end cabinets. Be sure to tune in as Joe explains how an increase in prices has made customers more hesitant to quickly jump into an extensive project. "I think emotional strength and resilience are important. The most important thing we can have as entrepreneurs, and I'm not going to blow smoke right now and tell you I have it every day, but I have to rely on prayer and meditation and just dial in and kind of clear out all the noise and just go inward and say I have the strength to get through this." Today's episode will cover how scaling a business enables entrepreneurs to overcome their limitations as workers, the unique dynamics and challenges of working with family members, and the importance of businesses being at the top of their game as the market stabilizes after the COVID rollercoaster. Connect with Joe: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-trave-05b18010/ Check out Village Handcrafted Cabinetry: https://villagehandcrafted.com/ Follow Village Handcrafted Cabinetry on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/village_handcrafted/?hl=en Follow Village Handcrafted Cabinetry on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Villagehandcraftedcabinetry/ Recorded on 6/27/24

In this episode of the AmiSights Podcast, we chat with Michael Ly, the founder and CEO of Reconcile. Michael shares his journey of starting the company in 2016, driven by a mission to support entrepreneurs by handling their daily bookkeeping and accounting needs, allowing them to concentrate on their core business strengths. “The business owner or the entrepreneur, they don't start a business because they're excited about accounting,” he said. “They start a business because they're passionate about a product or service they want to provide to the world and provide to their end customer, and accounting generally is not that service unless you're an accountant.” Today's episode will explore why rapid growth doesn't immediately translate into cash flow, as the need to hire more employees increases. We'll also discuss the challenges of finding qualified accountants, a task made even more difficult since the pandemic, which saw 300,000 accountants leave the industry. Lastly, we'll dive into strategies for building a strong company culture within a fully remote environment. Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelly/ Follow Michael on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/michael.s.ly/ Follow Michael on X: https://x.com/michael_ly_ Check out Reconciled: https://www.reconciled.com/ Follow Reconciled on X: https://x.com/getreconciled Follow Reconciled on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/getreconciled/ Follow Reconciled on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/getreconciled/ Recorded on 6/24/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Chris Schalleur, CEO of Christo IT Services, which has been helping small businesses for the past 25 years. He explains the importance of cybersecurity in today's digital landscape. “The number one thing I hear, Ami, is from small business owners. This is all around cybersecurity, and how do I protect myself from all the bad guys out there? And most business owners I talk to say... 'I don't have anything of value. Why would anybody want to hack me?' And the book is to try and dissuade some of those myths from small business owners. And that you do have things that are of value to you, even if it's just a value to yourself.“ Today's episode will cover the importance of thorough due diligence and stress testing before an acquisition, the efficiency and transparency benefits of documenting every step of a client's ticket, and how the COVID-19 pandemic has significantly increased cybersecurity risks due to the widespread shift to remote work. Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisschalleur/ Check out Christo IT: https://www.christoit.com/ Follow Christo IT on Twitter: https://x.com/christoit Follow Christo IT on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/christoit Recorded on 6/14/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we speak with Elizabeth Convery, founder of The Confident Agent: A System for Growth and Success for Women in Real Estate. She shares how her transition from the corporate world right after college helped her become a more effective entrepreneur. “Women need a community of others who are at similar stages. And so the coaching model is group coaching because it allows women to experience together similar issues, similar challenges, hear how somebody's overcoming something, and get an idea from somebody else as they're saying things that have worked for them. And then, the coaching is me sort of facilitating and guiding that.“ The main topics of today's episode will be how falling forward and learning from her missteps shaped her into a successful entrepreneur, how radical discipline and the confidence to delegate duties helped her transition to starting a second business, and why real estate agents need to have an authentic online presence. Connect with Elizabeth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethconvery/ Follow Elizabeth on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elizabeth.convery/?hl=en Follow Elizabeth on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elizabeth.convery.1 Subscribe to Elizabeth's YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUlmWZFTGbdd7QK8m0KVw7w Recorded on 6/13/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Lil Roberts, CEO and founder of Xendoo, which specializes in online bookkeeping and accounting, focusing on small business owners. Through a blend of cutting-edge technology and a dedicated team, Xendoo provides speedy access to financials with predictable pricing, seamless technology, and expert support. “Business owners can't get their financials in a timely way and have visibility to operate their business from the traditional CPA industry,” she said. “Not to say that CPAs are bad because CPAs are great, wonderful people. It's that they don't have the tools in that industry to be able to serve their customers in a timely manner…I'm not a CPA or an accountant. I'm just a fellow small business owner and entrepreneur and want to level the playing field by being able to deliver timely financials.” The main topics of today's episode will include the importance of understanding financials as the first line of order for all business owners, the necessity of having a line of credit readily available for seasonality, working capital, or unexpected emergencies, and the value of surrounding yourself with team members who challenge you and possess different skill sets. Connect with Lil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lillianroberts/

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Bradley Baer, founder and CEO of Crafted Action, an innovation consultancy that enables organizations to create impactful and seamless visitor experiences, both onsite and online. He began his career as an architect but soon realized his business acumen, which led him to become an entrepreneur. “There's not a lot of those folks that are incredibly creative, but also business minded,” he said. “So, my career has kind of been a back and forth of ‘how do I be really creative, but how do I make something that actually is a business that I can be really proud of, as well.'” The main topics of today's episode will be how having successful side hustles made Brad more comfortable venturing out and starting his own business, how the skills and experiences gained from his previous job of 10 years positioned him well for his entrepreneurial journey, and how taking a short-term dip in profit by hiring the right employees now will pay off in the long-term. Connect with Brad: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bbaer/ Check out Crafted Action: https://www.craftedaction.com/ Recorded on 6/2/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to health and performance coach Danny Martoe, owner of Agent of Change, which empowers individuals and organizations to reach new heights of personal and professional success. He explains how changing your health habits can change your business.“What happens with a lot of successful men and women and professionals is they tend to put the business before themselves, but then they realize that when they start putting themselves first, that they show up even better for their business – and that's the aha moment,” he said. The main topics of today's episode will focus on how the former sports agent transitioned into life coaching and how specific life wake-up calls often prompt people to seek out a life coach. We'll also explore how accountability, self-awareness, and strategic planning are essential ingredients for sticking with a healthy life plan. Connect with Danny on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danny-martoe-7b5b3025/ Follow Danny on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachdannymartoe/ Follow Danny on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CoachDannyMartoe Check out Agent of Change: https://agentofchange.org/ Recorded on 6/3/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Deanna Walker, CEO of Venturity, a professional services firm that helps small and medium-sized companies with all aspects of their back office accounting and finance needs. She explains how, in 2012, the company made a purposeful effort to invest in its culture.  “That's really where Small Giants comes into the picture,” she said. “We got introduced to that organization, and it really resonated with us – a lot of values, alignment, investing in your people and doing the right thing.” The main topics of today's episode will be how transferring into an ESOP company has made all team members more committed and accountable, how having an in-house trainer and recruiter has helped the company deal with the accountant shortage, and how adopting open-book management has educated all team members on how they can make an impact on the company. Connect with Deanna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannacwalker/ Check out Venturity Financial Partners: https://venturity.com/ Recorded on 5/17/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Verne Harnish, owner and CEO of Scaling Up, a global executive education and coaching company with over 260 partners on six continents. Verne discusses the vital importance of field reporting and accounting in business operations. “We were given speech a 100,000 years ago. We were only given Excel spreadsheets 50 years ago. I think we're much more highly developed to feel and sense patterns and get a good gut feel for the business by speaking and hearing the data instead of staring at Excel spreadsheets.“ The main topics of today's episode will cover how wealth is created through transactions and acquisitions, the importance of having your fundamental bookkeeping and accounting sheets in order before making strategic business decisions, and how you can achieve what a private equity firm can do for you, without the associated costs. Connect with Verne: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verneharnish/ Check out Scaling Up: https://scalingup.com/ Recorded on 5/15/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Peter Winick, founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage, a company that helps thought leaders, authors, consultants, and speakers monetize and scale their content and products. Despite their backgrounds or professions, thought leaders all have several traits in common.   “The problem with a lot of thought leaders is that it's the curse of the expert. They're so good at what they do, and some of them are literally the best in the world, that they've lost the beginner's mindset in other things. So when you start to make changes and move the business in different directions, it's like, uh-oh, I might not be the greatest at that. Like no, you might not, but that's okay.” The main topics of today's episode will be how thought leadership is the most cost-effective way to elevate your brand and acquire new clients in different spaces. We will also discuss why setting a strategy in place is the top priority in developing a thought leadership plan. Peter will also share how building a strong referral network helps all facets of a business.  Connect with Peter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peterwinick/ Check out Thought Leadership Leverage: https://thoughtleadershipleverage.com/ Check out the Thought Leadership Leverage Podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/60I6dYoR8A2Ljbu7M5i8CV Recorded on 5/15/24

In this week's episode of the AmiSights Podcast, Ami talks with Pete Heald, CEO of Signature Analytics, and Jason Kruger, President and Founder of Signature Analytics, a firm specializing in outsourced CFO and business advisory services. They delve into why they started the business, emphasizing the crucial role of accounting and finance in driving value, and discuss the risks associated with relying on a single individual for accounting tasks. “What I saw back then, and continue to see now, is the need for these types of companies in the small mid-market – they deserve better than what they're getting,” Kruger said. “A lot of them are looking at accounting and finance as a necessary evil. And what we want to do is educate them and show them how accounting and finance can drive value to their business.” The main topics of today's episode will be how CEOs and leadership team members need to understand their financials and fundamentals, especially as they scale and grow. We will also discuss why it is critical to not have just one person in control of all of the financials. We will also talk about how, as a business owner, it is important to know every aspect of your business. Connect with Pete: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petercheald/ Connect with Jason: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jason-kruger-a0b159b/ Check out Signature Analytics: https://signatureanalytics.com/ Recorded on 5/2/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Devin Gage, founder and CEO of Engage Personal Training. He explains how he knew he didn't want a desk job but didn't realize he could make fitness into a career. “I've become obsessed with business and understanding this game of business, and just this understanding that every one of these things has been done before. These problems have solutions and exist in the market, and I love thinking about it from a strategic lens of like, if this then that, and how does this puzzle all fit together? It just excites me."The main topics of today's episode will be how hiring his first employee motivated him to spend more time working on marketing his business. We will also talk about how entrepreneurs are often driven by insecurity and the desire to keep growing and prove something. Devin will also share his goal to increase his locations from seven to 100 in the next 10 years by centralizing systems and building a pipeline of fitness trainers. Connect with Devin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devin-gage-59184baa/ Check out Engage Personal Training: https://engagepersonaltraining.com/ Subscribe to Little Gym, Big Heart with Devin Gage: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4pn4FO6nLy49cJVZBEUcbA Recorded on 4/30/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Cesar Quintero, certified Entrepreneurial Operating System® (EOS) Implementer and Founder of The Profit Recipe, where he helps entrepreneurs and their leadership teams build a business by design with EOS based on the book “Traction.” He explains how he was drawn to entrepreneurship at a young age. "I launched something a little more dear to my heart and purpose is I launched an online entrepreneurial platform in Spanish for Latin America. So helping, Latin's because I think it's underserved and most, most of Latin America, they would do so well, so better off as an entrepreneur than as a professional." The main topics of today's episode will be how opening up his company's books to all of the employees changed Cesar's mindset on running his business. Cesar will share how his former company survived the COVID-19 pandemic after diversifying its options. We will also discuss why a company needs to have foundational basics in place before implementing an Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Connect with Cesar on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/cesarquintero Follow Cesar on Facebook: https://facebook.com/cesarequintero Check out The Profit Recipe: https://theprofitrecipe.com/ Follow The Profit Recipe on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheProfitRecipe/ Follow The Profit Recipe on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-profit-recipe Full episode airs on 5/28 on https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/multifunding Recorded on 4/29/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Malik Muhammad, founder and CEO of Akoben LLC & Transforming Lives Inc., which serve youth, school districts and leaders across the United States and abroad. Join us as he delves into how his personal journey has shaped his entrepreneurial trajectory. “My entrepreneurial journey really is rooted in freedom and wanting to be able to have more command of my own destiny,” he said. “I grew up in pretty unstable conditions, the intersection of poverty and racism and dysfunction in my own family. So, wanting a lot of folks who grew up in unstable conditions, wanting to find stability.” The main topics of today's episode will be how Malik learned his business acumen for his own businesses while still working in corporate America. We will also discuss how an entrepreneur's background may affect their risk tolerance if they can't fall back on family money. Additionally, we will explore how prioritizing your health helps you become a better business leader. Connect with Dr. Malik: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-malik-muhammad/ Check out Akoben: https://akobenllc.org/ Books & Resources: https://akobenllc.org/products/ Check out Transforming Lives Inc.: https://tliservices.org/ Recorded on 4/12/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Haggai Klorman-Eraqi. Haggai leads the Aggaeus Group, focusing on developing and supporting innovative brands. This includes Kardz.Biz, the "Black AMEX" of smart business cards, and Better Weight for Life, a telemedicine company. He explains how being an entrepreneur has similarities with being an artist. Connect with Haggai: https://www.linkedin.com/in/klormaneraqi/ Check out Kardz.Biz: https://kardz.biz/ Check out Better Weight for Life: https://betterweightforlife.com/ Recorded on 4/8/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Sarah Noel Block, founder of Tiny Marketing, where she helps small businesses with everything from core content, podcasts, and videos to partnerships and social media presence. She explained how freelancing for years while working prepared her to make the leap into entrepreneurship.  “Start building your personal brand early, so it's easy for people to say ‘yes,'” she said. “If you have been on LinkedIn or you have a podcast that is showcasing your expertise all the time, it's so much easier for people to say ‘yes'; you've built that trust ahead of time." The main topics of today's episode will be how she planned for six months before leaving her corporate job by setting up contracts to match her salary and beta testing on LinkedIn. Sarah with share how she balances her business and personal life by blocking time for work on her calendar and sticking to it. She will also share how she restructured her business to be able to do client work herself.  Connect with Sarah: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahnoelblock/ Check out Tiny Marketing: https://www.sarahnoelblock.com/ Recorded on 3/20/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Aviv Grafi, founder and innovator of Votiro, a cybersecurity company specializing in neutralizing files of all kinds through Secure File Gateway solutions. Based in Tel Aviv, Grafi describes how the Israeli–Palestinian conflict which started last October has affected businesses there. “In the first few weeks we were all in shock,” he said  “Immediately a bunch of the employees here in Israel were called for duty. In fact, even now I have employees, including my engineering manager, my VP engineering, there on duty. I think that in terms of velocity, in terms of productivity, I think that a lot of things were impacted here in Israel.” The main topics of today's episode will be how required military service in Israel builds perseverance and boosts entrepreneurs' risk profile. Aviv will tell us how his product differs, depending on whether it is sold in a North American market or Far East and Asia Pacific market. He will also share how he is working toward the company he founded to run on its own so he can focus more on activities he enjoys.  Connect with Aviv: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aviv-grafi-63426b1/ Check out Votiro: https://votiro.com/ Recorded on 3/19/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Chris Hutchinson, CEO of Trebuchet Group, an organizational consulting firm focused on helping leaders achieve great accomplishments through creating great teams. “I started this organization to enable the best within people; not in a fuzzy, rosy, unicorns and butterflies way,” he said. “When we can trust each other and work together really effectively, leaders can show up in a way that helps people get clarity and be able to do the right things, we can do anything.” The main topics of today's episode will be: How Chris was able to have an entrepreneurial experience in the Air Force before entering the corporate world and then starting his own company.  How open communication and understanding has allowed him to successfully work with his wife. How he prepared his staff to run the company when he went on a four-month sabbatical. Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rippleleader/ Check out Trebuchet Group: https://www.trebuchetgroup.com/ Check out Ripple Leader: https://www.rippleleader.com/ Recorded on 3/13/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Karan Shah, Owner/Director of Ivy Experience, a company that prepares students for their collegiate futures through test prep, tutoring and essay consulting. Karan sheds light on the impact of online learning on the tutoring industry, particularly in areas with limited access to such resources. “In Philadelphia, New York, LA Chicago, there's a lot of college prep options, but if you go to some more rural areas, there just aren't, right? There aren't many options. There might be one tutor available and they can only handle so many kids, right? So it's really open, the internet has opened up different markets to us that weren't previously open to us before.” The main topics of today's episode will the benefits and challenges of online learning, particularly in the context of tutoring, and how the internet has transformed the tutoring industry. Karan will also share how having other resources in the beginning allowed Karan's company to grow slowly without outside financing. Karan will also explain having different, yet complementary, skills from your business partner is beneficial for your company's success. Connect with Karan: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karan-shah-467075b6/ Check out Ivy Experience: https://myivyexperience.com/ Recorded on 3/12/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Sejal Lakhani-Bhatt, CEO of TechWerxe, a managed service provider for businesses. She discusses common misconceptions about IT services and offers valuable insights into how businesses can stay ahead in an increasingly digital landscape. “So here's the other thing. Small, medium businesses, one in four, right? One in four gets breached. It's that simple, one in four gets breached. It's not that it hasn't happened to you.It has already happened, and you may not know about it. It will happen, and one of two things will happen if it happens. It'll get blocked because you've got the right solutions in place, or it'll get in. But it will happen. And people don't realize that.” The main topics of today's episode will be navigating the myths surrounding IT services for safeguarding your business against potential breaches. Sejal will also tell us why it is up to the business owner to make sure a disaster recovery plan is working before disaster strikes. We will also discuss why it is critical to understand that IT is a necessity, not a luxury.

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Ben Smith, founder and president of TriTech Services Group, a company he formed in 2021 to acquire and grow small businesses. He explains why he left the corporate world after around 25 years to become his own boss. “I no longer wanted to allow somebody else to dictate my story or what I was going to do,” he said. “I really wanted to take more control of my life, what I was doing and the quality of life that I was having.” The main topics of today's episode will be the similarities between being a solo entrepreneur and having employees. We also chat about why you shouldn't hire just to hire somebody, hire the right person. Ben will also share the importance of giving back and mentoring young entrepreneurs. Connect with Ben: https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjaminsmithttsg/ Recorded on 3/11/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Kevin Nolan, founder and CEO of Nolan Painting and partner of Nolan Consulting Group. In his new book, “Organizational Muscle,” Kevin explains how running a marathon in all 50 states has helped him with the ups and downs of running his own business.  “Have an operating system. All companies that get to any kind of success level in size have an operating system. It's their own. It ends up being their own… Like I said, everybody knows what the operating system is. It's got to be predictable; it's got to be aligned with the mission, vision, and values. But you need an operating system. But it should be your own ultimately.” The main topics of today's episode will be why entrepreneurs should be focusing on continuous improvement and disrupting their own business before somebody else does. We will also discuss why entrepreneurs need to surround themselves with smart people who can provide information about the business within moments or an hour or two. Kevin will also share why entrepreneurs should get several different perspectives and then implement the ones that work. Connect with Kevin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinjnolan1/ Check out Nolan Painting: https://www.nolanpainting.com/ Check out the Nolan Consulting Group: https://www.nolancg.com/ Check out Organizational Muscle: https://organizationalmuscle.com/ Recorded on 2/12/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Chris Burkhard, CEO of Placers, a company that provides custom workforce solutions. A fourth-generation entrepreneur, Burkhard explains how his desire to be his own boss came early in life. “You could say it was a family calling, but when we had Sunday dinner, my dad would say to me and my two sisters, ‘you have more control over your life if you're your own boss; don't give that up and don't work for somebody else,'” he said. The main topics of today's episode will be how outsourcing and third-party services are drivers in the U.S. economy. Chris will share how his staffing business actually initially grew during the pandemic due to his concentration on contract jobs, many of which were in essential industries. We will also discuss how winning awards isn't necessarily a sign of a healthy business. Connect with Chris: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisburkhard/ Check out Chris's book "Opposite The Crowd": https://www.amazon.com/Opposite-Crowd-Want-Must-Know/dp/B0C9S8B1CF Check out Placers: https://myplacers.com/ Recorded on 2/6/2024

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Laura Meyer, CEO and founder of JoyBrand Creative, which leverages the power of emotional intelligence and AI technology to supercharge growth initiatives. She explains how she had to pivot and start over seven years ago after shutting down her once-successful photography business. “When you go through something like that, you learn so much that you can create something new, and you have to believe in your ability,” she said. “I think we can always reinvent ourselves. We have that ability and that permission to create something new from the ashes of maybe something that didn't work out.” The main topics of today's episode will be why franchising is risky not only for the franchisor but for the people they are selling to. We will also talk about how being a business minimalist with low overhead can create a large margin of profit and time. Laura will also share why having the proper mindset is much more important in running a business than just having a strong skill set.  Connect with Laura: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-meyer-creative/ Subscribe to Laura's YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCTwRnF0_KDlvP6xFYgq7nDg Check out JoyBrand Creative: https://joybrandcreative.com/ Recorded on 1/31/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Jennifer Walzer Berkowitz, Managing Director of R&J Advisory Group, which helps CEOs and executive teams scale up. Tune in as Jennifer explains her motivation in helping others achieve success. “I'm in a good place in my life. I don't have to be doing this. I could be on the tennis court every day. But the reality is that my whole purpose in life is to give others the same freedom,” she said. “I look at it as a partnership. My clients look at me as an extension to their team, they actually see me as a team member.”  The main topics of today's episode will be why entrepreneurs looking for coaches need to interview several candidates with different personalities and experiences. Jennifer will also share how surrounding yourself with the right people allows you to naturally scale up. We will also discuss why you need to take care of yourself before you can take care of others. Connect with Jennifer: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenwalzerberkowitz/ Check out R&J Advisory Group, Inc.: https://www.randjadvisorygroup.com/

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Deb Gabor, founder and CEO of Sol Marketing, a strategy-led marketing firm. Deb talks to us about cultivating your human authority to create irrational loyalty. “I'm in the business of creating the condition that I call irrational loyalty – when people are so indelibly bonded to a brand, they feel like they were cheating on it if they were to choose an alternative,” she explains. “Brands that create that condition of irrational loyalty scale more rapidly, more profitably, and are more focused. But the most important thing is that they earn on average – and this is just a mean – 40% more revenue than companies that don't.”  The main topics of today's episode will be how brand relationships are something that exist for any kind of business, no matter the size or the scope. Deb will explain why authority and servant leadership are indelibly linked. We will also discuss how giving away services with the sole purpose of helping other people and uplifting them will build your customer base and bottom line. Connect with Deb: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dgabor/ Check out Deb's website: https://debgabor.com/ Check out Sol Marketing: https://www.solmarketing.com/ Recorded on 1/29/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Jay Sidhu, Chairman and CEO of Customers Bancorp, Inc. and Executive Chairman of Customers Bank. He is also author of “Never, Ever, Ever Give Up, ” which started as a book for his grandchildren about being a first-generation immigrant from India, but evolved into a guideline for young entrepreneurs needing inspiration “I was very blessed that my dad had a great influence on my life, he was my mentor. And I wanted to pass on what he did for me on to others,” he said. “Now I have a goal and a mission to try to reach at least 5,000 young people in America or around the world and make a positive difference in their lives from sharing my experiences and my disappointments – everything in life – with them. That to me will be the ultimate satisfaction.” The main topics of today's episode will be how important it is to be an authentic person and be grateful for everything you have. Jay will also share why mentoring is a virtuous circle between mentors and mentees and how bankers are in the business of having their customers succeed.   Connect with Jay: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-sidhu-2108b593/ Check out Customers Bank: https://www.customersbank.com/ Get Jay's book, "Never Ever, Ever Give Up": https://nevereverevergiveup.com/thebook/ Recorded on 2/8/24

In this week's edition of the AmiSights Podcast, we talk to Jana Franklin, founder of the CEO Concierge Virtual Assistant company, a business dedicated to providing virtual assistant services exclusively tailored to the needs of CEOs. She also franchises several Jimmy Johns and Fantastic Sams locations in the St. Louis area. She explains how her businesses are intertwined. “The best thing I've done in my business in the last three years was to bring on a virtual assistant, in each and every company to help me run efficiently so I can do the things that I am good at. The things that I am not good at my virtual assistant handles for me,” she says. “We launched it based on our experiences and it's very client-focused. It's a passion project for me.” The main topics of today's episode will be how Jana's company differentiates itself by training virtual assistants for specific clients and needs. Jana will also share how the company handles quality control with assessments and how the COVID-19 pandemic had a long-lasting effect on the hair salon and beauty industry.   Connect with Jana: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jana-franklin-10177/ Check our CEO Concierge: https://ceoconcierge.com/ Recorded on 12/15/23