Authentic Business Adventures Podcast

Bradley Fish - Bradley Fish Guitar On a Being the Guy That Helps the Guy: "I remember at one point, he was like, dude, do you wanna do some more loops? I'm the number two producer in the world." There are two levels of cool: Those that know how to play guitar and everyone else below them. Playing guitar is a skill that many want, some achieve and a few master.  But how do you learn how to play a guitar? Bradley Fish knows how to play guitar and has been doing it for decades.  He has travelled the world and played instruments in all corners of the globe.  On top of that, he has trained hundreds of students to play guitar. But what is your goal with learning how to play guitar.  As a professional musician, the business can be tough. Bradley opens up about the realities of making it in the music business, the changing landscape for artists, and why so few bands ever achieve major label success. He dives into his teaching philosophy, the evolution of technology in music education, and how he's adapted his business to offer one-on-one guitar lessons both in person and online. Plus, Bradley gives us an exclusive peek inside his state-of-the-art music studio filled with unique instruments from around the world, and talks about his innovative approach to connecting with students. Listen as Brad details how he trains people to play guitar, and what he has learned in the 40 plus years of teaching people the fine art of guitar playing. Enjoy! Visit Bradley at: https://bradleyfish.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 High School Audiophile Nostalgia 09:19 Unexpected Discoveries in Madison Clubs 11:31 Odds of Band Success 15:45 Simple Songs, Complex Insecurities 25:21 "Unexpected Gig Opportunity" 29:01 Experience Quality, Higher Cost 34:45 "Exploring Diverse String Instruments" 37:22 Music Recomposition and Innovation 43:37 Affordable Home Recording Revolution 48:43 Music Lessons: No Judgments 54:38 "Musician's Improvised Summer Journey" 57:45 Bicycle-Powered Musical Setup 01:05:17 Interactive Online Music Lessons Podcast Transcription: Bradley Fish [00:00:00]: One in 40,000 bands will get a major label deal, and of the one in 40,000, one in 12 will actually make money at it. James Kademan [00:00:08]: So how long have you been in the music game? Bradley Fish [00:00:10]: Thirty years ago. And I started teaching guitar when I was 16. I saw Jethro Tull. I love them as a teenager. Yeah. I love them. And when I saw them live, it was like, like, they're really human. It wasn't that great. Bradley Fish [00:00:24]: It was okay. A lot of these bands, they're spending so much to promote, to produce, all that stuff that they're not really making up with. James Kademan [00:00:31]: You've seen so much of different people with finger styles, different guitars, different likes as far as music and stuff like that. So, you know, like, oh, you wanna play this? This is what you gotta do. Bradley Fish [00:00:41]: So much of the stuff, the instrument makes a big difference. Alright. You know? You play the sitar and it sounds like Indian music just right off the bat. James Kademan [00:00:49]: So from a business point of view with you teaching, how long have you been doing this? Bradley Fish [00:00:53]: It's my fortieth year. Fortieth year, dude. Yeah. James Kademan [00:00:57]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. We are locally and written by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Bradley Fish of Bradley Fish Music. So, Bradley, how Fish it going today? Bradley Fish [00:01:19]: Awesome. Thanks for having me. James Kademan [00:01:20]: Man, we are in your studio, and holy cow. We got all kinds of stuff going on.

Brandon Lang - Lang Lighting and Decor On a Knowing What People Want: "And people like quick. They want their stuff done yesterday." The evolution of how a business came to be and grow is always interesting. With Brandon Lang, of Lang's Lighting and Decor, he started making elaborate haunted houses for the neighborhood and now runs a successful lighting and decor business. Brandon shares how an epic backyard haunted house for Halloween—built with his brother Dustin, a pile of recycled cardboard, and a garage full of ambition—sparked their passion for decorating and community connection. After their mega-popular haunted house was shut down for safety reasons, the brothers channeled their creative energy into a new business: helping families transform their homes with professional-grade Christmas and landscape lighting. Listen as Brandon pulls back the curtain on launching their company out of their dad's garage, facing the countless challenges of growth (from tangled bins of holiday lights to wrangling their first employees), and figuring out how to scale quality work without losing the personal touch. If you've ever wondered what goes into making neighborhoods dazzle during the holidays—or dreamed of turning your favorite hobby into a full-time pursuit—this episode will leave you inspired, entertained, and maybe ready to up your own lighting game. Enjoy! Visit Brandon at: https://langlightingllc.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Neighborhood Halloween Maze Tradition 05:48 "Haunted House Dream Deferred" 08:00 Haunted House Revival Idea 09:24 Classy Holiday Light Installation 14:25 Festive Neighborhood Light Rivalry 16:00 "Lang Lighting's Commercial Expansion" 20:10 Seasonal Income Solutions Pursuit 23:46 Investing in Quick Product Turnaround 27:54 Streamlining Quoting Efficiency 30:25 Hiring Decision: Seasonal Part-Timer 33:59 Dad Joins Family Business 35:30 Hiring Struggles and Decisions 40:46 Business Growth Through Networking 41:29 "Embrace Strengths and Delegate" 46:50 Training Challenges for New Employees 50:39 Lighting Services Podcast Transcription: Brandon Lang [00:00:00]: Yeah. I think the what's great about the work that we do is like we get to see almost instant gratification. You put lights on the house, you turn it on and boom. James [00:00:11]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Brandon Lang of Lang Lighting and Decor. So Brandon, how is it going today? Brandon Lang [00:00:37]: Today is going good. Weather's weather's nice. James [00:00:40]: It's a good day for lighting and decor. Brandon Lang [00:00:42]: Yeah. It's always a good day for lighting and decor. James [00:00:44]: Nice. Tell us really quick. How long has Lang Lighting been around? Brandon Lang [00:00:48]: So, we established the company in 2018. Okay. And, it was just me and my brother starting off as a hobby and today, we have three full time employees, two part time and then Dustin and I. James [00:01:04]: Nice. So. How do you get into the lighting business? Brandon Lang [00:01:08]: Wow. James [00:01:09]: I didn't mean to be that extreme but Brandon Lang [00:01:12]: Where to begin? Alright, so, Dustin and I, we started off essentially decorating for the holidays. That was kind of, where the love and the passion came from. James [00:01:24]: Your own houses? Brandon Lang [00:01:25]: Yeah. So, just growing up, dad's house, mom's house, we just had this love of like, most of the time parents would handle the indoor stuff and we were like we're On to just tackle the outdoor stuff. Like Lang Christmas lights, you know,

Hannah Klassy - Dementia Dimensions On a Knowing What is Good For You: "What is good for your heart is also what's good for your brain." What is dementia?  Do you know someone with dementia?  How can you help someone with dementia? These are some of the questions that people often ask when confronted with a loved one, parent or sibling that may be having a hard time.  These are the questions that Hannah Klassy can help you answer. Hannah Klassy started Dementia Dimensions to help people navigate the confusing world of dementia, helping her clients help their loved ones to stay sharper, longer. Hannah shares her journey from working as a speech-language pathologist in memory care facilities to founding her own business dedicated to helping individuals with dementia and their caregivers. Together, they break down common misconceptions about dementia, discuss the different stages and types, and highlight the emotional challenges faced by both patients and families. Hannah stresses the importance of early planning, maintaining independence, and building a strong support team—while also sharing practical advice on brain health and daily living strategies. If you or someone you love is affected by dementia, or if you're simply curious about how one business is making a difference in the world of elder care, you won't want to miss this insightful and compassionate conversation with Hannah Hammond of Dementia Dimensions. Listen as Hannah shares some insights she has gained so that you are prepared when you find others, or maybe even yourself, heading towards a life with dementia. Enjoy! Visit Hannah at: https://www.dementiadimensions.org/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia Progression 04:26 Understanding Alzheimer's and Dementia Types 07:20 Complexities of Daily Hygiene Tasks 10:50 Respecting Wishes in Cognitive Decline 14:05 Health Care Communication Challenges 18:56 Heart-Healthy Lifestyle Boosts Brain Health 19:52 Diet, Brain Stimulation, and Sleep 24:00 Networking for Caregiver Business Growth 27:48 Supporting Dementia Communities Together 29:40 Brain Scans for Alzheimer's Diagnosis 34:45 "Importance of Seeking Support" 36:25 In-Home Care Challenges and Solutions 41:36 Speech Therapy and Business Growth 44:28 Building Trust Through Familiarity 45:42 Free Home Safety Consultations 48:56 Elder Law and Financial Planning Podcast Transcription: Hannah Klassy [00:00:00]: Cognitive activities. So just stimulating your brain, turning it on. I I you know, people are like, well, what can be good for my brain? If if your brain's feeling challenged or, say, even learning a new recipe, learning new things, as long as your brain is getting turned on and you're thinking, that's good for you. James Kademan [00:00:19]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Hannah Klassy of Dementia Dimensions. So, Hannah, let's, start with what is Dementia Dimensions. Hannah Klassy [00:00:45]: Sure. Thanks for having me. James Kademan [00:00:46]: Yeah. Thanks for being on the show. Hannah Klassy [00:00:48]: Yeah. Yeah. So I am sole owner and founder of Dementia Dimensions. It really is where I help, people navigate the challenges through dementia and dementia care. That could be those living with dementia, families, caregivers. That's kind of the simple version of it. James Kademan [00:01:05]: Alright. Hannah Klassy [00:01:06]: There's a lot to Dementia, dementia care, especially if you receive a diagnosis. And so because there are so many challenges in just the navigation of it,

Dean Vance - Vance and Associates CPA On a the Brutal Truth About the CPA World: "It's the people who are not part of the orthodoxy who are outside the box that ask those, quote, unquote, 'silly questions', that actually dig in. 99% of this space has been following a fallacy about things." As an entrepreneur, the government rewards you, kind of, for building your business to create jobs and keep the economy moving.  But these rewards are typically given as tax breaks that are not at the forefront of the minds of accountants.  You know them the professionals that you trust to know the tax code to help minimize your tax burden. Dean Vance is a CPA that comes at this from a different angle.  Dean has an eye and a mind for helping business owners navigate the tax code to make sure they are taking advantage of the opportunities the tax code offers them. Dean Vance of Vance and Associates CPA talks taxes, accounting, and small business finance. As a seasoned CPA with nearly thirty years of experience, Dean shares the ins and outs of tax strategy, the importance of tax planning, and why having someone regularly “look under the hood” of your business books can make all the difference. The conversation covers everything from the often-overlooked tax opportunities for small business owners—like paying your kids to work in your business—to the crucial role of systems, checklists, and company culture in building a successful business. Dean also gives listeners a peek behind the scenes of his own firm, discusses the value of industry specialization (“riches are in niches!”), and highlights the human side of accounting, including personality fit and team building. Along the way, James and Dean swap stories about navigating the real challenges and triumphs that come with entrepreneurship, making this episode a must-listen for business owners who want to stop leaving money on the table and start running a leaner, smarter operation. Whether you're dreading tax season or just want to better understand the numbers driving your business, you'll find plenty of practical wisdom—and maybe a little inspiration—in this week's conversation. Listen as Dean shares some tax tips, as well as offers you things to look for when searching for a professional to help you with you tax strategy. Enjoy! Visit Dean at: https://www.deanvancecpa.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 "From Bakery Job to Business Owner" 05:40 Atypical, Big-Picture CPA 12:48 Decoding Business Patterns Mystically 16:47 "Fridays: Cakes, Beer, and Nostalgia" 23:55 Law School Decision and Karma 30:43 "Tax Return Amendment Review Process" 33:21 Bookkeeping for LLCs and Corporations 38:16 "Bimonthly Financial Meetings Routine" 46:38 "Inside vs. Outside the Box" 50:56 Leveraged Medical Supply Deduction Strategy 56:37 The Rosetta Stone's Impact 01:02:57 Choosing a Trained Tax Strategist 01:04:03 Captive Insurance Company Basics 01:12:20 S Corp vs. C Corp for E-commerce 01:15:47 Client Assessment and Discovery Process 01:19:54 "Entertainer Computes Cost of Labor" 01:27:50 "Creedal Country: Merit Over Origin" 01:33:57 Basement Drywall Experience 01:35:56 "Opportunity and Ambition Dynamics" 01:44:42 "German Cultural Traits & Influence" Podcast Transcription: Dean Vance [00:00:00]: Third would be tax planning, I guess, generally. You want a professional who knows what they're doing to In go through your books and say, hey. Just like I mentioned with my with the the the prospect that that turns into a client was, you know, just have somebody who does this all the time. Right? Take a look at your books and take a look at your tax returns. Okay? Is there is there a fidelity between the closing of your books and your tax return? So you check all these different things, one. And then two, you can look at how they're situated legally, how how their entity is set up legally. Right? James [00:00:35]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures,

Tammy Cho - Path to the Heart On a Question Every Entrepreneur Should Routinely Ask Themselves: "Where are you not allowing yourself to be yourself, your authentic self?" We push and we grind and we hustle and we push some more.  As entrepreneurs we do all of this in the name of success, freedom, happiness and perhaps a bit of stubborn ego.  Pushing this hard can sometimes put us in a position of forgetting who we truly are.  Even forgetting what we really want out of life and our business. Without realizing, or remembering what we are pushing for can lead to less success than we are capable of achieving, and possibly even worse, often in the form of health and wellness issues. Tammy Cho, founder of Path to the Heart, went down this path and realized it.  She got up, changed course and now helps others explore the powerful intersection of personal healing and authentic leadership. Tammy shares her remarkable transition from working as a high-achieving nurse—who ultimately faced burnout and a life-changing panic attack—to creating a unique business dedicated to helping high achievers reconnect with their authentic selves. We'll hear how her personal story of emotional struggle, navigating therapy, mastering NLP, and discovering energy work and psychosomatic therapy inspired her mission to serve entrepreneurs searching for more meaning and alignment in both their personal and professional lives. Tammy discusses the importance of self-awareness, energy leadership, and recognizing the masks many of us wear as business owners. Tammy opens up about her face and body analysis work, explaining how our physical features can reveal invisible blocks to our potential, and how aligning our mind, heart, and body can amplify our presence and leadership in any room. Listen as Tammy shares some powerful insights that will have you taking a moment to think about what you want, so you can focus on achieving exactly that. Enjoy! Visit Tammy at: https://pathtotheheart.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Awakening to Emotional Disconnection 05:20 Face & Body Analysis for Healing 14:26 Entrepreneurial Growth Through Mindfulness 19:07 Embrace Unplanned Exploration 25:39 Face Analysis for Personal Empowerment 28:25 Facial Changes from Emotional Shift 35:42 "Uncovering Authentic Leadership" 42:31 Alignment: Mind, Heart, Soul, Will 47:49 Face Analysis Insight Session 48:41 Exploring Authentic Self Through Reflection 57:48 Grounding and Alignment Guidance 01:04:36 "Exploring Spiritual Expression" Podcast Transcription: Tammy Cho [00:00:00]: What makes someone when we go into a room actually command the room? Like, what what is that? It's when they're actually aligned in their mind and their heart and their soul and their will. Like, when you are in alignment in all these places, that's when your energy essence, you're leading the room by that. And it really doesn't matter what strategy, what words you're using because you're in alignment. It's just like you're in conviction. James [00:00:32]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggles, stories, and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found In the podcast link On at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Tammy Cho of Path to the Heart. So, Tammy, how is it going today? Tammy Cho [00:01:00]: It's going very well. Beautiful weather over here, James. I'm Cho delighted to have this conversation with you. James [00:01:06]: Yeah. I'm excited because you I know NLP is a part of what you to, but just for the audience here, how about you let us know what is Path to the heart? Tammy Cho [00:01:14]: Yeah. I'd love to. Path to the heart to the heart was essentially,

Jose Berlanga - Experienced Entrepreneur On the Skills to be a Successful Entrepreneur: "You have to be a little bit crazy, a little bit of a gambler, a little bit of a dreamer." Advice for an entrepreneur from an experienced business owner with years of dealing with the ups and downs of multiple businesses is invaluable.  The simple fact is that we do not know it all, and sometimes a story from someone that has lived to tell a tale is a great example, or warning, for us. Jose Berlanga, the entrepreneurial force behind many businesses, from Italian Coffee Shops, to real estate investing. Jose opens up about his journey from launching his first business at just 17 years old in the oil and gas industry, to navigating the highs and lows of real estate development with his brother as a partner. Together, they discuss the realities of entrepreneurship—shedding light on the risks, sacrifices, and the unexpected learning curves that come with building businesses from the ground up. Jose also shares insights from his new books, including “The Business of Home Building,” “Dirt Rich,” and “Quantum Entrepreneurship,” each offering a candid look at what it truly takes to run successful companies and develop the entrepreneurial mindset. You will get an inside look at the importance of choosing the right partners, protecting your business during industry downturns, and why understanding your personal strengths (and weaknesses) are just as critical as managing cash flow. Listen as Jose shares some of his behind-the-scenes struggles and triumphs of business ownership, his hard-earned wisdom and actionable advice straight from someone who's lived—and survived—it all. Enjoy! Visit Jose at: https://joseberlanga.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Entrepreneurship: Risks and Lifestyle 06:18 Entrepreneurship: The Crazy Gamble 13:44 Balancing Passion and Practicality 16:30 Balancing Professional Dress Codes 23:36 Partnering for Business Success 27:52 Business Debt and Survival Struggles 31:50 Accidental Real Estate Journey 36:58 "Successful Partnerships Require Compromise" 42:28 "Saturday Night Live Skit Memory" 49:58 Prepare for Economic Shifts 57:47 Youthful Business Risk-Taking Insight 01:00:17 Guidance Lines of Credit Explained 01:07:48 Understanding Your Business Role Podcast Transcription: Jose Berlanga [00:00:00]: The biggest mistake that that some of us entrepreneurs make is that when we start making some money and we experience a handful of good years, we get very, very On, and we think that those good years are never gonna end. And instead of putting some money aside, paying paying off some debt, consolidating our operation, we continue to grow and we continue to leverage and expand recklessly. James Kademan [00:00:31]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found In the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls On call extraordinary answering service, and, of course, the Business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Jose Berlanga of the McCall Media Group, and we're talking real estate, business, and a couple of mistakes along the way. Is that safe to say, Jose? Jose Berlanga [00:01:05]: That's right. How are you, James? James Kademan [00:01:07]: I'm doing very well. I'm doing very well. Thank you so much for being on the show. Jose Berlanga [00:01:11]: Part of my reinvention now, I'm starting to write. I'm already on my third book, having a blast doing In, something that I've been wanting to do for a very long time and finally got around to it. But, but really the my my companies, are several others and umbrella of companies, mostly real estate related. Houstonian Capital, Onyx, Land Partners, On Homes, so on and so forth.

Beth Viney - Czar's Promise On Getting Bad News About Your Beloved Pet: "Caring for Pets with Cancer: It's kinda like you get a glazed look over your face, your your throat sinks down into your stomach, and you have a thousand questions and not a lot of answers." Pets hold a special place in our hearts.  They lift us up when we're down and lift us even higher when we're doing alright.  They show us what is really important: food, water, naps, a few snuggles and maybe scratching that one spot that makes your leg shake for joy. But pets are living, breathing and loving creatures and living creatures can get sick, just like us.  This is especially challenging with a pet that doesn't have a great way of expressing all that they are feeling in regards to their health. Beth Viney is the founder of Czar's Promise, a non-profit that helps pet owners navigate the options when they find out their pet has cancer.  This includes information and resources to help you as a pet owner. Listen as Beth explains how you can help you pet, before they have cancer and just in case they are diagnosed with cancer.  She shares her wisdom, passion and drive and is doing all she can to make our incredible pets as happy, healthy and helpful as possible. Enjoy! Visit Beth at: https://www.czarspromise.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Pet Cancer Support and Guidance 06:00 A Dog's Impact on Life 08:04 Commitment to Pet Cancer Aid 11:27 Pet Diagnosis: Factors and Options 14:43 Pet Cancer Diagnosis Steps 17:12 Navigating Pet Cancer Treatment Challenges 23:08 Hidden Illness in Pets 25:00 Pet Health: Vet Visits & Grooming 28:22 Journey Through Pet Cancer Struggles 32:17 Pet Insurance Gap and Czars Promise 35:23 Czars Promise: Young Nonprofit Grows 37:19 Supporting Madison's Veterinary Oncology Pets 41:08 Veterinary Cancer Support Network Formation 46:17 COVID Impact on Pet Cancer Treatment 47:42 Veterinary Costs Rise Post-COVID 52:15 "Future Goals for SARS Promise" Podcast Transcription: Beth Vinny [00:00:00]: Dogs can be incredibly stoic. They can hide discomfort very well, through their nature. Some dogs more than others, as well as cats. And for the most part, cancer isn't diagnosed until, okay, all of a sudden it's there. James Kademan [00:00:22]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggles, stories, and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Beth Viney of Czars Promise. So Beth, how is it going today? Beth Vinny [00:00:46]: Oh, it besides being a rainy day and muddy paw day, it's going great. Thank you. Day. It's muddy paw day. James Kademan [00:00:52]: I'm excited. Today, we're talking dogs. Right? Beth Vinny [00:00:54]: We're talking dogs and we're talking cancer On both dogs, cats, and people. Yeah. James Kademan [00:00:58]: Well, at least that's half good. Right? Beth Vinny [00:01:00]: Yep. That's right. James Kademan [00:01:01]: Tell me what is Czars response? Beth Vinny [00:01:03]: So if you have ever known anybody, human or a pet, that has been diagnosed with cancer, that's what we focus on. Alright. And really our we have two main areas of mission. And one that we do every single day is we work with families throughout Wisconsin and even some other states that come to Madison, Wisconsin for veterinary oncology Czars. Because their pet, their dog or cat has been diagnosed with cancer. And what we do is we help The navigate through that journey. Because when you first hear the words, your dog or your cat has cancer, it's kinda like you get a glazed look over your face, your your throat sinks down into your stomach, and you have a thousand questions and not a lot of answers.

Jeff Green - Provalytics On the Understanding the Data in Analytics: "It would be like if you gave credit to the supermarket checkout person because they were the ones who scanned the candy bar, because they were the last one who touched it, because it was right there in the candy aisle and you grabbed it as you were in line." In marketing, if it isn't measured, it'll be unlikely to be improved. But what do you measure in marketing and how do you measure your marketing to be able to tell if what you're paying for is actually a good investment? Jeff Greenfield of Provalytics, is a trailblazer in marketing measurement. Jeff takes us on a journey to unravel the complexities of digital marketing, exploring the age-old challenge of determining which marketing efforts truly pay off. He explains how Provalytics uses advanced statistical models and AI to help advertisers identify what's actually working in their campaigns. As we delve into the intriguing world of probabilistic modeling, Jeff offers insights into how businesses can shift their focus from clicks to impressions to better understand and optimize their marketing spend. So, whether you're a seasoned marketer or just starting out, sit back and get ready to explore the innovative solutions that Provalytics brings to the table in the ever-evolving landscape of digital marketing. Listen as Jeff explains the gritty details of what you should be paying attention to and the pitfalls to avoid to make sure your marketing spend is well placed. Enjoy! Visit Jeff at: https://provalytics.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 "Misleading Digital Marketing Insights" 05:15 Branding vs. Search Advertising Debate 07:01 Limitations of TV Ad Metrics 12:53 Amazon Ads Affect Web Traffic 16:28 Pioneering User-Level Marketing Analytics 18:46 "Enhancing Click Data with AI" 23:40 Call Volume Prediction Origins 25:34 "Monty Hall Dilemma" 29:53 Facebook Ad Spending Insights 34:13 Real-Time Digital Ad Bidding 37:49 Personalized Ad Streaming Explained 41:30 Breaking Down Marketing Silos 43:12 Unified Marketing Integration Bridge 47:45 Top-Down Marketing Strategy Insights 49:40 Overspending Due to Google's Analytics 53:00 Marketing Spend Tracking Misconceptions 56:32 Clicks vs. Branding Priority Podcast Transcription: Jeff Greenfield [00:00:00]: James, if I were to give you an ax and ask you to chop down a small tree and you'd never chop down a tree before, before you In, I would say, how long do you think this is gonna take? And let's say you'd never used an ax before. I and you'd say, I have no idea. And I'm like, you have to make a guess. So you would make a guess, and then you start chopping. And I would let you chop for a minute, and then I'd ask you to stop. And I'd say, okay. Revise your guess. And so you would revise it. And if I did this, like, every minute and and then Adventures every five minutes and wrote down what your guesses were, we would find that at a certain point, your guesses would get closer and closer to what the actual number is. James [00:00:39]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Jeff Greenfield of Provalytics. How is it going today? Jeff Greenfield [00:01:07]: Oh, it's it's going great, James. It's, I'm excited to be here. James [00:01:10]: Yeah. Let's just start Call right off the bat. What is Provalytics? Jeff Greenfield [00:01:14]: Provalytics is a marketing measurement platform. And it it essentially, there's an old saying in marketing from a famous marketer from the Midwest by the name of John Wa...

Steve Miller - Be Uncopyable On the Advantages of Marketing: "Better is always beatable." Steve Miller is a marketing gunslinger.  As Kelly's dad, and previously as a martial artist, movie stuntman, son of one of the guy's that invented the 8-track cassette, and more entertaining history that helped mold him into an observant marketing guru, he is a man you need to listen to. Every business that has an intention to grow needs to market.  But how do you stand out in all of the noise in the world we live in.  The secret is to differentiate yourself in a way that is memorable for your soon-to-be customers. Listen as Steve illustrates a few ideas for how you can differentiate yourself and your business in a way that your competition just cannot copy. Enjoy! Visit Steve at: https://www.beuncopyable.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Inside TED: A Creative Dinner Party 07:48 Stunt Career Beginnings 16:04 "Evolution of Trade Shows" 18:45 "Finding and Understanding Your Audience" 22:55 "Breaking into Sales through Connections" 30:48 Innovative Ball Control Concept 34:14 "Understanding Your Customer" 42:44 Demonstration Success Through Participation 44:13 "Strategy Inspired by Truckers" 51:04 "Mattress Mack's Generosity Post-Katrina" 55:14 Final Customer Question 01:01:28 Deming's Legacy: Quality & Benchmarking 01:07:48 Efficient Tablecloth Technique Observed 01:10:15 The Uncopyable Concept Insight 01:19:23 Golfer's New Career in San Diego Podcast Transcription: Steve Miller [00:00:00]: And he sat there, and he was holding a an orange, like, towel cloth, something like that. And and he just kinda would hold it there for a second, and then he and then he would he would, be watching people who were walking Be, and then he would he would find and I found, like, later on, he would he would look for a couple. James [00:00:28]: Oh, interesting. Okay. Steve Miller [00:00:30]: And and as they were walking by, he would just throw it out on the floor. So this orange cloth falls out on the floor, and, of course, it got In, you know, gets their attention. They go, oh, yeah. You know? And he goes, oh, hey. Can you grab that for me? And I go, yeah. And and then then he said then he would say, can you do me a favor? James [00:00:58]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally In by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Steve Miller, who is Kelly's dad as well as, and I love this, a marketing gunslinger. So today, we're talking marketing. Steve, how is it going today? Steve Miller [00:01:32]: James, thank you so much for inviting me to be here. I, I've been on a lot of podcasts over the years and, you know, having written a lot of books. Books. And and, I really enjoyed preparing for this because I was able to go back and look at and, you know, you just have this wide variety of people that you've talked to, and there's a very good reason why that's a good thing. And we can talk about that a little a little bit more. But, I mean, you know, when you're talking to I love it. Actors. You talk to actor, people who are act I used to I used to be a stuntman. James [00:02:11]: Did you really? Steve Miller [00:02:12]: Yeah. And James [00:02:12]: Call, this podcast just got cooler. Steve Miller [00:02:15]: Oh, well, it's just you know? No. And there's a lot of reasons why. A lot of reasons why. So, anyway, very excited to be here with you, James. Thank you so much for inviting me. James [00:02:24]: Yeah. So we have a lot of ground to cover because you've been doing this a long time. I wanna start with the big thing.

Alexander Harmsen - Portfolio Pilot On Playing the Game: "How do we set a level playing field so that we negate the effects of all these high frequency traders?" Investing strategies can be challenging.  Typically it is you either trying to beat or keep up with the market, or you paying someone that vaguely promises to beat or keep up with the market.  You almost need a computer to help you crunch all of the numbers. Alexander Harmsen, cofounder of Portfolio Pilot, has had some successful exits and wanted to find places to invest.  But the market can be daunting, and all of the so-called pros didn't seem to be all that talented, at least as far as offering well calculated advice.  When you meet a financial planner that isn't dominating in the financial field, what are they actually offering you? So Alex helped build Portfolio Pilot. PortfolioPilot.com is a platform that uses AI to look at all of the numbers you have, what you want, where you're going and calculates, in the fancy way AI is known for, finally pumping out some investment action step suggestions for you.  Ultimately you decide, but it gives you well calculated advice. If you've ever wondered if you should buy or sell a certain investment product, using AI to help figure out all, or most, of the variables can help you choose what to do and when. Alexander shares insights on how PortfolioPilot empowers DIY investors by providing a comprehensive view of their financial landscape and offering personalized, automated advice without taking control. With over 30,000 users and $30 billion in assets on their platform, PortfolioPilot is changing the game by offering tailored financial recommendations based on a user's age, net worth, and risk preference. Listen as Alex illustrates the shortfalls of other options, and the cost of ignoring the opportunity to help get your money to work for you. Enjoy! Visit Alex at: PortfolioPilot.com     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Exploring Financial Ventures and Investments 04:12 PortfolioPilot: Custom Investment Platform 08:32 Monthly Tax-Loss Harvesting Tips 10:54 AI Evolution and Financial Modeling 15:36 AI Entrepreneurship: Navigating Practical Realities 18:11 Simulating with GPUs for FAA Approval 20:39 Compute Needs and Costs Rising 25:16 User Feedback Drives Product Success 28:41 "Obsessed with AB Testing" 31:54 Resisting Financial Advice on Tesla 34:10 Investment Diversification Dilemma 38:54 Macro-Driven Volatility Analysis 41:21 Market History and Transformations 44:12 High-Frequency Trading Equalization Strategies 48:56 Distrust in Financial Institutions 49:44 AI: Future of Personal Advice Podcast Transcription: Alexander Harmsen [00:00:00]: And it goes through and it talks about, like, retirement readiness, and In scores your portfolio, and it, you know, calls out what's what's really good and, like, where are some opportunities for improvement. And, you know, importantly, it bends it benchmarks you. It compares you to other investors on your age, your net worth, your risk preference. The difference that we made, this absolutely massive change James Kademan [00:00:24]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes of the podcast can be found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Alexander Harmsen, cofounder of portfoliopilot.com, and we're gonna learn about investing in AI. So, Alex, how are you doing today? Alexander Harmsen [00:00:56]: Doing really well. James, thanks for having me on the pod. James Kademan [00:01:00]: Thank you know, I'm excited because I like to think of myself as an investor. I'm not gonna say a smart or good investor,

Matt Theriault - Epic Real Estate Investing On Financing Options: "When you get into the world of real estate investing, you start to see, wow, there's other ways to acquire property, and there's all these different types of property. It's not just saving up a down payment, going to a bank, jumping through all their hoops and going that route as most people use to buy their own primary residence." Trading time for money is what many of us have been taught is the well-travelled road to wealth.  I'd argue it is the road to income, but not wealth.  True wealth is when you receive money in exchange for things that do not necessarily take your time. Matt Theriault, the Epic Real Estate Investor, podcaster and real estate coach explains how he made the transition from the record industry and evolved his career into real estate. Matt details the ups and downs of building his real estate empire and details some of the advantages of choosing real estate as a profitable investment. Listen as Matt details some of the books that have inspired him, as well as a few things he has learned that helped him build wealth with real estate. Enjoy! Visit Matt at: https://epicrealestate.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Single vs. Multi-Family Investment Pros/Cons 04:13 Multifamily vs. Single-Family Valuation 08:59 Falling for Music: DJ Journey 11:35 Hip Hop DJ Albums Success 16:02 Unpredictable Decline in Record Sales 17:25 "Transition and Change in Music" 20:51 Music Industry Layoffs Amid Digital Disruption 26:13 "Shifting from Agent to Investor" 28:06 Creative Real Estate Acquisition Strategies 33:09 Alternative Home Buying Solutions 33:53 Quick Cash Home Buying Offer 39:32 "Buying Into Elite Networks" 40:45 Real Estate Guidance and Services 45:30 Real Estate: Top Tax Benefits 47:06 Real Estate Tax Benefits 52:29 Seeking Reliable Tax Advisors Podcast Transcription: Matt Theriault [00:00:00]: This new definition of wealth. So I had just come from the music business. I thought wealthy was you just meant you had a lot of money. And his definition was, no. You have enough money coming in each month to cover your bills, and that money that's coming in isn't necessarily tied directly to your efforts. James Kademan [00:00:19]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Matt Theriault, owner of Epic Real Estate. Matt, I apologize. He told me I was gonna mess that name up. I hope I didn't mess it up terribly. Matt Theriault [00:00:50]: No. You got pretty close. You got closer than Matt. But, James Kademan [00:00:53]: what happy to be, James. I appreciate that. So, Matt, today, we're talking real estate. So let's just start out with what is Epic Real Estate. Matt Theriault [00:01:00]: Well, Epic Real Estate is a a company Matt kind of a two headed company where we show people how to invest in real estate and those people that wanna be a little bit more hands on. And then we have another portion of it that my wife runs where she actually does the investing for them. So she does all the heavy lifting. So some people wanna be hands In. Some people wanna be hands Draw. But, pretty much our client wants real estate so they can retire early. James Kademan [00:01:23]: Nice. Yeah. And is this when you say two pronged, I guess, as far as that goes, how long have you been doing it? Matt Theriault [00:01:30]: Let's see. I've been investing myself almost twenty years now, nineteen years or so. Been teaching for about fifteen. James Kademan [00:01:38]: Okay. Mhmm.

Stephen Lange - Lange's Painting On Working With a Business Partner: "Once we understood what our defined roles were, we were able to stay in our own lanes." So you want to start a painting business.  But where do you start?  Just about anyone can grab a truck, a bucket, brush and ladder and call themselves a painter.  But what if you want to actually grow your painting business? Stephen Lange, alongside his brother Bernie, embarked on a bold entrepreneurial journey by starting their painting business in the midst of a pandemic.  He unpacks his story of navigating the challenges of setting clear roles within a family-operated business, maintaining quality service with both residential and commercial clients, and fostering a culture of trust among employees. One of the secrets to their success has been insightful business coaching.  Stephen details how their company has grown through strategic coaching and a commitment to high standards. Listen as Stephen explains how he and his brother have built their painting empire and the things they have learned throughout the process. Enjoy! Visit Stephen at: https://www.langespainting.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Starting Lange's Painting 04:10 "Belief in New Business Venture" 09:20 Assessing Candidates: Listen for Past Complaints 12:22 Direct Communication and Responsiveness Sought 13:00 "Professional Appearance Requirements" 17:32 "Community Growth and Support Evident" 20:54 Sherwin's Global Painting Expertise 23:41 Understanding Paint Quality Levels 25:59 Employee Training Video Assessment 29:01 Unified Excellence 32:31 Employee Engagement and Support Activities 36:21 "Exploring Trade Careers" 39:14 Miscommunication in Recruitment Spending 43:24 "Create a Default Calendar" 46:38 Prioritize High-Value Tasks 50:54 Networking vs. Backend Efficiency 55:55 Understanding Financial Statements Efficiently Podcast Transcription: Stephen Lange [00:00:00]: I would say make sure that roles are defined Alright. And on paper for what people are responsible for and what their job roles entail. Standards of procedures as far as, hey. Like, if we're gonna go hire someone, I have a list of questions that I go by every single time. That way, when you wanna come by our company in a couple years because you see that we run on 14% efficiency, you know, you can make Stephen Lang [00:00:28]: some bank off of that. You have found Authentic business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We're locally underwritten by the Lange of Sun Prairie and today, we're welcoming slash your In to learn from Stephen Lang of Lang's painting. So Stephen, how is it going today? James Kademan [00:00:51]: Good. Thank you for having me on. Busy day so far. We we've started in, started in Stoughton and then made it to Verona for a chamber thing. And now I've been graced with your presence. Stephen Lang [00:01:02]: Nice. I think I've been graced with yours, man. So you've been hustling, working on the Business. Yeah. Or is it on the Business, not in the business? Yes. James Kademan [00:01:11]: Alright. That's the goal. Stephen Lang [00:01:12]: Kissing babies, shaking hands, all that jazz? James Kademan [00:01:15]: No babies. Stephen Lang [00:01:15]: No babies. I James Kademan [00:01:16]: have one, but no no babies today. No. Stephen Lang [00:01:18]: Right on. Yeah. Let's just start with from the bottom chronologically here. K. When did you decide to start Langes painting? James Kademan [00:01:25]: Really good. I yeah. Small history about us is we've always In been around it. My brother and I own it 5050. Stephen Lang [00:01:31]: Okay. James Kademan [00:01:32]: Born and raised in the Madison area. We have, you know,

Action Jackson - Jackson's Yard Care On the Importance of Taking a Step Back to Take Leaps Forward: "I had to take a break to find myself. Right? I had to do some soul digging and figure out what I'm on this earth to do." In my experience, there are two honest ways almost guaranteeing you can practically print money: 1) Clean buildings, like houses, or 2) Take care of lawns.  Because dirt and grass don't care how they economy is going and people need help keeping things tidy and clipped. Action Jackson started Jackson's Yard Care and took his business to another level.  He lays out how he got started, some of the challenges and, most importantly, having the right frame of mind to make miracles happen. On top of building his yard care empire, Action took things a step, or leap, further by starting a training program for those that want to be in the yard care business.  He has systematized this training and in the very first year that he started this, he gave 19 people new employment and made three entrepreneurs.  The man is a business building machine that helps others grow as well. Listen as Action Jackson explains how he started his yard care business, from the first employee, to the bigger and bigger warehouses and onward into training to help others.  This show will get you jazzed to get your business going. Enjoy! Visit Action Jackson at: https://www.jacksonsyardcare.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Lawn Care Training Gaps 03:19 Landscaping Industry Empowerment Program 06:35 "Verifying Resumes: Trust but Verify" 11:05 Thriving Under Pressure 12:42 Logo Update Challenges and Costs 18:12 Journey of Self-Discovery and Purpose 21:18 From Lawn Care to Business Growth 24:39 Struggling to Find Employment 27:26 Everyday Spirituality Journey 29:40 Mindset Shift: Positivity and Action 34:22 Youth Program Success Story 35:25 Snow Removal Hiring Highlights 40:24 Intuition-Based Hiring Process 44:13 Divorce Attorney on Marriage 48:07 Purchasing Equipment with Cash 51:24 Searching for Ideal Space 53:45 Double Rent Dilemma 55:39 "House and Warehouse Same Day" Podcast Transcription: Action Jackson [00:00:00]: Because you have an option to be around that person.  If you're negative, I don't want it to have nothing to do  with you, because remember I'm protecting my energy. And if I bring a negative energy around me, then I'm the problem. James [00:00:18]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the The of Sun Prairie, and today we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from entrepreneur extraordinaire, Action Jackson. So Action, how is it going today? Action Jackson [00:00:42]: It's wonderful, man. I can't complain. Everything's been busy and dramatic my way this week. James [00:00:48]: Dramatic Authentic in a good way? Action Jackson [00:00:50]: All the time. Always positive. I love it. James [00:00:53]: I love it. So I was thinking you're in the landscaping business Yeah. But we're just chatting off Care and you got stuff going on in all directions. Action Jackson [00:01:00]: So Yes, I do. James [00:01:01]: How about we start by just listing the businesses you got going On? Action Jackson [00:01:05]: My main business is The landscaping Business, lawn care service. And then my Call Business is is a training program, and that's a placement business. And then my other business is, print on demand and that's promotional products. James [00:01:23]: Alright. Mhmm. I'm gonna take those out of order a little bit. Yep. Let's start with the training program. Okay. Because I didn't know about that until, whatever, Friday. I don't know. James [00:01:32]: A few days ago.

Sean Ginsburg - Ginsburg Realty Simple and Effective Advice: "Sales is never personal. I'm really gonna help them come to the decision that something needs to change within them because I'm here to help them achieve their targets." No one wants to be sold, but everyone loves to buy.  The world needs salespeople, and as a business owner, you need to sell. But what is the best sales strategy?  How do you teach people that what you offer is what they need? Sean Ginsburg is a real estate titan and sales trainer that has answers to those questions, and he shares them with us here.  He unravels the intricacies of what it takes to be successful in sales. We delve into his journey from selling real estate to becoming a top-tier sales trainer. Sean discusses how he adopted and mastered Grant Cardone's training programs and then redefined them to craft his own unique approach. He highlights the importance of discipline over mere motivation, the significance of matching personal goals with professional targets, and the critical differences between being a con man and a true sales professional. Sean sheds light on the essential elements required for closing sales, especially in the B2B space, and reveals some of his bold strategies for calling out client objections. From managing sales teams to aligning company mission with individual motivations, this episode is packed with actionable advice for anyone looking to elevate their sales game. Listen as Sean explains not only how to sell, but the philosophies of life that will help you reach the point of  enlightenment to move beyond the sales process and into a great conversation. Enjoy! Visit Sean at: link.me/sean.ginsburg     Podcast Overview: 00:00 From Real Estate Sales to Teaching 09:37 Tony Robbins' Time Management Critique 13:29 Aligning Company Mission with Employee Goals 20:10 Addressing Employee Concerns Respectfully 22:54 Right People, Right Seats 29:49 Mindset Shift Over Endless Events 37:21 Self-Reflection for Life Decisions 40:12 Class Time: Unexpected Problem Solving 44:15 Mindful Moments and Random Thoughts 52:08 Decision-Making and Problem-Solving Inquiry 54:34 Addressing Arbitrary Delays Tactfully 01:04:16 Misaddressed Email: "James the Huckster" 01:06:17 Identifying Self-Sabotage Patterns 01:10:53 Podcast Availability & Encouragement Podcast Transcription: Sean Ginsburg [00:00:00]: If you don't like something in your life, then fix it. You don't like your job, go out there and do something different. In order to get different results, you gotta try something different, meaning you gotta change. James [00:00:11]: You have found Authentic business adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On call extraordinary answering service, as well as the BOLD business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Sean In of, SG Consulting. And I believe, Sean, we're chatting about real estate, which is always a good time. Sean Ginsburg [00:00:41]: Real estate's the best thing in the world, man. James [00:00:43]: How are you doing? Sean Ginsburg [00:00:43]: Thanks for having me on. James [00:00:45]: I love it. I love it. So let's just start lay a foundation here. What is SG Consulting? Sean Ginsburg [00:00:52]: SG Consulting is where you come to for your On stop sales, handling objections, lead generation, prospecting, learning what it takes to close Calls, anything that you can think about sales is what we do. So whether you're a brand new person that's looking to start a business, whether you are have already started, but you're looking to take your business to the next level, or you're an advanced On, you know,

Allen, Will and DJ - The Allen and DJ Show Simple and Effective Advice: "Don't give up. Keep pushing." We've seen the movies, the TV shows, the print ads and all of the images of people.  But who are these people, and how do you become someone that can make money as being an actor, or a model? One of the rules is to get noticed and to have a following.  Allen, Will and DJ are working on doing just that. Allen and DJ are co-hosts of their own show, which covers a broad spectrum of topics aimed at helping people become the best versions of themselves. From managing money and financial literacy to tackling mental health issues like ADHD, they leave no stone unturned. Will, the producer, adds his own touch, ensuring the operation runs smoothly behind the scenes. We touch on their beginnings in the acting industry, the importance of headshots, and the rigorous process of securing an agent.  A big reminder is the power of persistence, and the somber reality of facing rejection. Going deeper, we explore how social media has become a crucial tool in their marketing strategy, allowing them to build a fan base and reach wider audiences. They provide insights on the blend of personal and promotional content, the power of perseverance, and the importance of continuous improvement. Listen as Allen, Will and DJ explain what has and has not worked for them as they have continued to grow their portfolio of acting and modeling gigs. Enjoy! Visit Allen, Will and DJ at: https://linktr.ee/will89000     Podcast Overview: 00:00 DJ's Self-Improvement Show Idea 04:08 Talent Agencies and Individual Fit 07:08 National Granger Commercial Breakthrough 10:54 Comp Card vs. Headshot Explained 12:56 Talent Agencies in Chicago and Wisconsin 16:45 Streamlining Resume for Casting Director 20:05 Monologue Audition Tips 23:48 Acting Audition Expectations 28:44 Supporting Will: A Brief Encounter 29:11 Talent Agency Rejection Experience 35:08 Confidently Embrace the Role 36:35 Deer Story Becomes Show Highlight 39:50 Rise of Social Media Influence Podcast Transcription: Allen [00:00:00]: You got your pictures done. You submitted it to the agent. The agent love it. They like your body of work and everything, so now they bring you in for what they call like a look see. James Kademan [00:00:13]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at DrawInCustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service as well as The BOLD Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Allen, Will, and DJ of the Allen and DJ Show. So welcome. Allen [00:00:41]: Hey, man. How's it going, James? James Kademan [00:00:43]: It is going well. I'm excited to have you guys because you have a show. I got a show. So here we are. Allen [00:00:49]: Hey, man. Let's do it. James Kademan [00:00:50]: Make magic happen here. Allen [00:00:51]: Exactly. James Kademan [00:00:52]: Let's just start out. What is the Allen and DJ Show? Allen [00:00:55]: So the Allen and DJ Show is a show that, we talk about to gear towards self improvement and lifestyle, helping people to become, the very best versions of themselves. James Kademan [00:01:06]: Alright. And how did you guys land in that realm? Allen [00:01:10]: Well, now we and in the realm by, be because, like, nowadays, we got a lot of shows where people talk about maybe, like, edit tutorials from, like, maybe doing hair or you got, like, a lot of dating coaches and stuff. And we talk about, like, okay, we love to self improve by maybe, like like, maybe by DJ, like,

Mike Kollath - Palladium Tax Advisory CPA On the Help Entrepreneurs Need: "Quite frankly, compliance, while it's necessary, isn't where you actually can help someone." You may not know Mike yet, but you need to.  Mike helps businesses with tax strategy and he illustrates his journey and a few tax tips in this interview. Mike's stories, from his first venture into the online retail world with a used children's clothing store to the eventual establishment of a successful CPA firm with over 45 employees and $5 million in revenue take you through his education, saving you the time.  Through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of tax planning, strategic growth, and adapting to market demands. Mike discusses key takeaways from his business endeavors, his strategic approach to tax advisory services, and how he leverages his expertise to help clients save money and optimize their business operations. Listen as Mike explains how to position yourself as a business owner, to make sure you keep as much of your money as is legal. Enjoy! Visit Mike at: https://www.palladiumcpa.com/     Podcast Overview: 04:59 Starting a Business Journey 08:19 Growing Pains in Small Teams 12:33 Partnership Growth and Process Implementation 14:45 Private Equity Inquiries Surge 16:30 Origin of Banana VoIP Venture 21:07 Genesis of Sustainable HR PEO 22:50 PEO & HR Tech Services 27:58 Growth Sparked by New Leadership 29:03 Private Equity Growth Factors 32:56 Pandemic Surge in Call Service Interest 37:39 "Excited for New Startup Phase" Podcast Transcription: Mike Kollath [00:00:00]: I call them churn and burn chops, where they're just cranking out as many 10 forties and Yeah. On business returns as they can. But that's the problem. Right? If you have all these returns you gotta get done, you don't have time to do the other stuff that's actually valuable to the client. Right. Quite frankly, compliance, while it's necessary, isn't where you actually can help someone. James [00:00:25]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggles, stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at DrawInCustomers.com. And today, we're welcoming, slash preparing to learn, from Mike Kollath, and I'd love to list all the companies you got going on, Mike, but I think it's better The you do. So first, we got the Palladium. Mike Kollath [00:00:50]: Yep. Palladium Tax Advisory. Alright. A new CPA firm that I started about 3 months ago. James [00:00:57]: Oh, nice. Mike Kollath [00:00:58]: The there's Sustainable HR PEO James [00:01:00]: Alright. Mike Kollath [00:01:00]: Which is a professional employer organization, which we can talk about later. Sustainable HR recruiting, which we just started to do, basically headhunting. And then we have BananaVoIP, which is a VoIP company. James [00:01:13]: Nice. Alright. So So perfect for Mike Kollath [00:01:16]: a for James [00:01:17]: a show about entrepreneurs and all that jazz. Mike Kollath [00:01:19]: Certainly. James [00:01:20]: So let's talk about let's just go Book. First time you started your business, which business was the first one? Mike Kollath [00:01:25]: Okay. So The first one was a small, used clothing children's store. James [00:01:32]: Used. On mine. Children's clothing. Mike Kollath [00:01:34]: Used children's clothing. Yes. Alright. James [00:01:35]: Tell me about that. Mike Kollath [00:01:36]: On mine. So we bought that company, my ex wife and I did. Okay. So we got lots of, children's clothes in the Kademan. And so we're just doing it online. And then eventually, I figured out it's really hard to make money selling children's clothes online. And it's a pain in the butt to ship and do all that fun stuff. James [00:01:56]:

Kari Warberg Block - EarthKind On Value Beyond the Basic Use of a Product: "And a funny side story to that, when the product first got on the market, we were known as, having a product that saved marriages." Mice are seemingly everywhere.  This is especially true if you live or work near a field or open space for the rodents to expand their population.  But what if you're not interested in the typical chemical and lethal options for dealing with these pests? Kari Warberg Block, founder of EarthKind, discovered a problem, didn't like the available options for dealing with that problem, created a better solution and built a business on that solution.  That alone in the story many entrepreneurs have lived to tell.  Kari's story, though built around a dirty subject, has no lack of great insights and valuable stories for you. Kari shares her journey from dealing with a stubborn mouse infestation on her farm to developing a groundbreaking non-lethal pest control product. Inspired by her father's work as an entomologist, Kari set out to create botanical repellents that deter pests without harming them. Her products, Fresh Cab and Stay Away, are now available in over 35,000 stores across the U.S. We'll explore the intelligence of rodents, the environmental impact of traditional pest control methods, and Kari's strategic approach to business growth and maintaining cash flow. Kari opens up about the personal sacrifices and challenges she faced, including a federal court battle and the intricacies of EPA registration. Listen as Kari explains how she found a need, created a product, built a business and now makes the world a little bit better. Enjoy! Visit Kari at: https://www.earthkind.com     Podcast Overview: 08:29 The rodent problem. 12:11 Mice destroyed 400 tomato plants surprisingly. 16:09 Failed remedies, discovered barkless tree mystery. 25:35 Proven success despite initial skepticism and competition. 29:25 Rodents relocated from factory to racetrack concessions. 35:27 Debt-free growth through savvy cash flow management. 41:28 New CEO manages; leader focuses on strategy. 46:59 Dad transitioned to successful, people-focused businessman. 50:21 Compassion and conflict drive truth and excellence. 54:50 Report mistakes to improve, not blame others. 01:02:49 Know customers; seek referrals for success. Podcast Transcription: Kari Warberg Block [00:00:00]: Then they'll come in your house and, you know, garage door's open. They're like, oh, let's go. Garage door's open and run-in, and they'll be able to find dog food or warmth. And people don't even know when they've invaded the house until it's too late because they're so sneaky. James Kademan [00:00:17]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and strengths and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at DrawOnCustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service, as well as The Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Kari Warberg Block, the founder of EarthKind. And Keri, I am excited to talk to you because you are venturing into an area of business that I didn't even know existed. So I'll just have you tell the people what EarthKind is, and we'll get this party started. Kari Warberg Block [00:00:58]: Well, great. I'm happy to be here with you and, appreciate appreciate everything here. I'd love love to share this story. We're an innovator in the category of pest control. Before my company came along, 98% of everything sold to control a pest was a poison or a kill method. Being a mom, having kids, having pets, that didn't sit so well with me when when it was my job to control pests on our farm. So I invented a brand new way to control pests that w...

John Dwyer - Institute of WOW On the Best Strategy for Success: "Prove to people that you can help them by actually helping them." We all need to market our businesses, but we also want to have fun.  Did you know that often, the most fun in marketing is also the most successful? John Dwyer of the Institute of WOW takes this to another level and shares some incredible marketing insights to get your brain thinking of ways to market your business. We'll explore fascinating case studies—like how a sweepstakes promotion catapulted an Australian resort's occupancy rates and how a turf farm sold three miles of grass in just three days. Get ready to hear about boosting business with Facebook contests, running successful B2B promotions, and even hiring Jerry Seinfeld into a hugely successful campaign for an Australian bank. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting out, John Dwyer's marketing insights will offer valuable lessons and inspire you to embrace a "why not" attitude in your business pursuits. Listen as JD explains, in simple, easy to use action steps, how you can market your business. Enjoy! Visit JD at: TheInstituteOfWow.com and https://getmorejd.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Interest rates affect consultancy fee negotiations. 09:47 Join forces to sell holiday vacation vouchers. 14:51 Discount is 10%, disguised as gas promotion. 16:06 Insurance covers big prizes; stimulates product sales. 21:37 Offer landscapers premium beer for lawn work. 27:53 Inappropriate promotion idea involving deceased relatives. 35:27 Ugly fence contest generated many new leads. 42:04 Lobster Cave grew by collecting customer details. 47:59 Room given free; resold at various prices. 51:24 Help people by actually helping them first. 55:21 Answering all calls increased revenue by $15k/week. Podcast Transcription: John Dwyer [00:00:00]: Look. I'm a digital marketing agency and deal with a 25 year old. But if you need heart surgery for your business, and you do, let's just say it was heart surgery for you, we do actually use the guy that just came out out of medical school, and he's 25, and he says, listen. I've never done this heart surgery before. I've learned all about how to do it at at college. I'm gonna give this a hell of a good shot. Okay. Or would you give it to the guy with a few wrinkles that has been around the block a few times who says, look. John Dwyer [00:00:24]: I can do this in my sleep. James Kademan [00:00:27]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from JD of the Institute of Wow. And today, we are talking marketing. So JD, how is it going today? John Dwyer [00:00:57]: Thank you very much, James. And so that, they, whoever's watching or listening to this doesn't think that I've got a completely weird name. My name is John Dwyer, but I get the initials JD all the time. And as I said to you before we started the recording, I get lots of other names, but we won't go through that. James Kademan [00:01:11]: Yeah. Right. Right. JD's cool. JD's cool. So Institute of Wow, I'm excited to hear this because I I looked at your website, all the marketing stuff you have going on. Let's start with the big story that you have on there with getting Jerry Seinfeld to work with you at a bank in Australia. John Dwyer [00:01:27]: Yeah. And, James, that was about a dozen years ago, and, I've milked milked the daylights out of that, of course, as one would. And, I remember on one occasion in the 3 years that I went back as a forc...

Joe Rare - Level 9 Virtual On Using Technology With a Purpose: "What they wanna do is use the data that they can capture to improve the experience they deliver to you." We each have a to-do list that is seemingly miles long.  On that list, somewhere, is to market our business so we can grow.  But you also have all of the day to day minutiae to take care of. Joe Rare has been an entrepreneur for years and has survived and evolved his brands to help elevate other businesses.  Through Level 9 Virtual he has found a way to hire, vet and assign projects to help other entrepreneurs get their to do list whittled down. Like any serial entrepreneur, Joe also has another blossoming business, VisitorMatch.  This is a business designed to turn casual website visitors into prospects, and then into sales. In this candid conversation, we get to learn more about Joe's expertise in visitor tracking for small businesses, where he lays out cost-effective strategies focusing on target advertising and data-driven approaches. This includes a captivating explanation of how pixels and in-market data can efficiently connect businesses with potential customers without breaking the bank. Joe also brings to light the intricate processes behind hiring and training Virtual Assistants (VAs), with a special focus on the high-quality talent from the Philippines. Plus, you'll hear about his dramatic financial turnaround, lessons learned from managing remote teams, and the pitfalls he's faced from regulatory challenges in his previous ventures. Listen as Joe shares some best practices for hiring, as well as what the future of marketing can do for your business. Enjoy! Visit Joe at: https://joerare.com/ Level 9 Virtual - https://www.level9virtual.com/ Wedding Booking System - https://weddingbookingsystem.com/ VisitorMatch - https://visitormatch.com Premier Vacation Partners - https://premiervacationpartners.com     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Realized potential to start a VA company. 04:17 Marketing agency failed due to unsustainable overhead. 07:48 Government and finance are interconnected, influencing everything. 10:11 Global orders vanished; money held since 2014. 14:17 Learning risks as supplement entrepreneur too late. 16:50 Training ensures outsourced team members' success and retention. 20:19 Managing remote teams was challenging pre-video conferencing. 22:57 Philippine team: Loyal, passive, not proactive, aggressive. 28:00 Verify actions, conduct background checks, contact references. 30:19 Full-scale recruitment process through ads, filtering. 32:27 Embracing failure accelerates growth and success. 36:34 Gives free honeymoon with wedding venue booking. 39:40 Collect personal data using IP or pixel methods. 43:54 Data collection enhances user experience and value. 47:00 Plan to leave social media, delay kids' use. 50:35 Most male marketing discarded before entering home. 52:08 Target active searchers; use in-market data. Podcast Transcription: Joe Rare [00:00:00]: And then once we did it with 1 batch of of growth, it's like, well, now we know we're going to grow again. So just replicate it and then replicate it and then replicate it. And that's kind of how we we built. James Kademan [00:00:13]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at DrawInCustomers.com. We are locally unwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service, as well as The Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming, slash preparing to learn from Joe Rare of Level 9 virtual. So, Joe, how is it going today? Joe Rare [00:00:41]: Oh, it's good. Thanks for having me. James Kademan [00:00:42]: I appreciate it. I'm excited to learn more of what you got because wh...

John Tarnoff - Reinvention Group On Realizing You May Need a Change: "What often happens in mid career is that you kinda look around and go, what are you doing now? What's the purpose of all this?" If you do what you've always done, you'll get what you've always got.  That rings true even more as you think of changing your career.  But how do you change your career?  How do you shift your skillset to fit a new job that you feel you'd be better suited for?  What job do you work at to be happy? John Tarnoff is a career transition expert.  He has been on some wild entrepreneurial journeys from Hollywood to the dot com era in the 90s.  Now he is helping his clients find their dream job.  This insightful conversation with career strategist and executive coach, John Tarnoff begins with his job experience and paints a picture of what he has learned to help others. John sheds light on the ever-evolving landscape of job hunting and professional development. From the critical importance of a robust LinkedIn profile to the inherent flaws in traditional job application processes, John offers practical advice for job seekers at all career stages. We explore effective networking techniques, the power of a compelling career narrative, and strategies for tackling employment gaps. Listen as John shares his perspectives on the unique hurdles faced by older professionals and provides actionable tips for navigating job interviews with untrained recruiters. We discuss the value of vulnerability, maintaining a positive team culture, and leveraging your "superpower" to stand out in the professional world. Enjoy! Visit John at: https://johntarnoff.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Opted for Flash over 3D for animation. 06:18 Conversational database mimics shallow human interactions. 12:32 Entertainment relies on franchises, pre-sold material. 19:03 Adapting growth mindset crucial for career progression. 23:54 Job struggles for older professionals; interview issues. 30:32 Prepare interview team: coordination, training, focus. 36:34 Define superpower, build community, ensure thought leadership. 43:49 Consider past experiences to identify fulfilling elements. 49:06 Enhance LinkedIn to uniquely showcase your skills. 50:31 AI inflates job applications; prioritize building relationships. 01:00:50 Embrace passion; no need to force conversation. Podcast Transcription: John Tarnoff [00:00:00]: Number 1, define your superpower. What is the particular set of skills, experiences, attitudes, preferences, values that you represent, and what do you deliver with it? James Kademan [00:00:16]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle, stories, and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link found at draw On customers dot com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service, as well as The Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from John Tarnoff of the Reinvention Group, which we are gonna be talking about careers and career transition. So, John, how are you doing today? John Tarnoff [00:00:47]: Doing great, James. Thanks for having me on your show. James Kademan [00:00:50]: Yeah. You know, I'm excited to chat with you because as an entrepreneur, I get the the luxury, we'll call it, of hiring people. And it is it's rare that I think about what it was like on the other side to be the interviewee. And I saw your name come across, and I was like, when was the last time that I had a job interview? And I thought, when is the last time that you had to go through all these things that people that aren't entrepreneurial have to go through. And it's it made me kinda pause and think, like, what what do they have to go through? I don't even know what the world's like now on that ...

Carolyn Jahnke - Athena Legal Solutions LLC On the Spirit of Entrepreneurs: "In the entrepreneurial world, we all know that there's plenty of room at the table for all of us. And so we're happy to share all the horrible mistakes we made doing it, and so that you don't go through that pain." Business owners will need to meet and use a business attorney at some point in their entrepreneurial journey.  Whether you need advice to make sure you follow the rules, or you end up with a customer that skipped paying you, attorneys are a fact of life as an entrepreneur. Carolyn Jahnke, the founding attorney of Athena Legal Solutions has found this need and brought to small business the solution they need. Carolyn shares invaluable legal advice for small business owners, delving into important topics like LLC formation, the complexities of filing requirements, and the impact of the Corporate Transparency Act. She offers practical strategies for protecting your business, from trademarks and copyright to risk management and client contracts. Carolyn also opens up about her journey from corporate law to running her own firm, highlighting the significance of networking, referrals, and building connections within the local business community. With a special focus on helping women entrepreneurs, Carolyn's firm aims to provide wisdom and comprehensive legal solutions in a flexible, supportive environment. Tune in to gain insights into managing legal challenges, understanding the nuances of intellectual property, and the importance of legal structures in safeguarding your business. Listen as Carolyn explains her legal philosophy of how to help small business owners, as well as how she built her law practice to help others and keep her schedule where she wants it to make sure she can enjoy life. Enjoy! Visit Carolyn at: https://athenalegalsolutionsllc.com/     Podcast Overview: 05:10 Uncertainty in podcast success and hypothetical scenarios. 09:07 City says business can't operate in neighborhood. 10:37 Consult your accountant for personalized tax advice. 13:23 Most people are good; legal letters persuade. 18:21 Food entrepreneurs often have extensive industry knowledge. 19:29 Discussing business risks and trademark considerations. 23:26 Trademarks protect service-related symbols and sounds. 27:11 Copyright changes invalidate existing registration; frequent updates complicate. 29:12 Business value critical for using AI-generated content. 32:27 Surprise seeing own book listed as used. 37:23 Legal helps businesses balance goals and risks. 40:26 Proof of ownership required; combats money laundering. 42:00 Law introduction delayed; lawsuits followed implementation. 45:47 Confused about money laundering form complexity. 48:59 Entrepreneurs collaborate; corporate competes for position. Podcast Transcription: Carolyn Jahnke [00:00:00]: Like you don't have to form an LLC, right? Like that's not. James [00:00:03]: You do not. That is true. Carolyn Jahnke [00:00:04]: You do not, right? So you could choose to leave all your business and personal assets intermingled. But now you're putting your personal assets at risk if something happens in your business and vice versa. James [00:00:17]: So Yeah. Is that Carolyn Jahnke [00:00:18]: a risk you On take? James [00:00:21]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggles, stories, and triumphs and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers dot com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Carolyn Jahnke, the founding attorney of Athena Legal Solutions. So Carolyn, how is it going today? Carolyn Jahnke [00:00:46]: Good. How are you? James [00:00:47]: I am excited. We're talking business law.

Walter Kinzie - Kinzie Foods On the Appreciating the Opportunity: "How did I land on the stage where I'm literally giving the cue for the transition of power to happen, and one president leaves office as another president goes? And I I was directing that moment in history." There are a few defining moments in our lives as entrepreneurs.  The phone call that was the driver for a row of dominoes falling that caused you to end up in the perfect spot.  Maybe even meeting the right person at the right time.  Walter Kinzie of Kinzie Foods has reflected on those moments and has learned to cultivate them. Walter shares his dynamic journey from organizing landmark events, including the 2017 presidential inauguration, to building upon his aunt's legacy with an incredible barbecue sauce line.  Walter opens up about his initial forays into event planning, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and how he leverages his vast experience to ensure unparalleled client satisfaction. Walter also shares his entrepreneurial pivot into the world of gourmet barbecue sauce. Discover how a personal passion project evolved into Kinzie Foods, blending meticulous product development with a strong focus on premium customer experiences. Leo offers insights into his strategies for direct-to-consumer sales, the importance of quality packaging, and the philosophy behind creating a memorable brand. Listen as Walter shares the business tips to help you make those magic moments happen.  Prepare for an incredible interview with a dynamic entrepreneur.  Maybe enjoy some BBQ while you listen. Enjoy! Visit Walter at: https://kinziefoods.com/     Podcast Overview: 00:00 Accidental business started with barbecue sauce gifts. 05:45 Started small, grew rapidly, expanded to flavors. 14:26 Twist top ensures clean barbecue sauce experience. 15:55 Targeting gourmet home chefs with diverse products. 22:15 Prioritizing quality and customer experience through investment. 26:16 Product for foodies excites more than essentials. 35:19 Family recipe requires precise cooking for flavors. 41:28 Dad orchestrated community show in small Kansas town. 43:22 Determined to produce presidential inauguration someday. 47:45 Countless decisions create meaningful, memorable events. 54:46 Networking chain leads to directing presidential transition. 01:01:30 Drive-in concerts brought joy during COVID shutdowns. 01:04:22 Band behavior reflects management's communication failures. 01:09:02 Artist flopped; cover band quickly salvaged event. 01:15:10 Helped produce first CFP national championship game. Podcast Transcription: Walter Kinzie [00:00:00]: And I made a, I made a commitment to myself that night on 2 things. Number 1, I verified that I absolutely did wanna put on concerts for a living, but number 2, also told myself I'd never let myself or anybody else limit how high I could go. James Kademan [00:00:15]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Walter Kinsey of Kinsey Foods. And, Walter, before I get you going here, I just wanna let the audience know Walter has done way more than, I'm gonna dare say most of my guests, certainly more than me. So I'm excited to talk to you. Walter, how is it going today? Walter Kinzie [00:00:57]: Man, pleasure's all mine. I'm grateful for this opportunity. And, you know, it's going it's a great day. And, you know, it's a interesting day in America, but, Yeah. James Kademan [00:01:07]: It is. Walter Kinzie [00:01:08]: But, you know, across the board,

Tara Ingalls - Tingalls Graphic Design On the How to Focus On a Specific Target: "What area of your business do you want to see move forward? And be very specific about your goal." Businesses need to market to survive.  They need to market well to thrive.  But how is a business supposed to market online when there are so many channels and an audience that flows from platform to platform? Tara Ingalls, on her third exciting visit to this podcast and founder of Tingalls Graphic Design, brings a wealth of knowledge from her 25 years in business. Our discussion dives deep into the intricacies of advertising, contracts, and the ethics and challenges small businesses face in digital marketing. From navigating misleading SEO services to harnessing AI in design, Tara shares both her personal experiences and professional advice. We'll also explore the power of social media, with Tara emphasizing platforms' roles in customer service and engagement rather than just sales. She'll share her strategies for leveraging Facebook and LinkedIn effectively, while also shedding light on the importance of setting clear marketing goals and having a robust digital presence through well-optimized websites. Listen as Tara offers a glimpse into Tingalls' unique company culture and her distinctive management style, proving that prioritizing employee well-being can drive productivity. Enjoy! Visit Tara at: https://tingalls.com/ Digital Marketing Partner Checklist: https://tingalls.com/tips/2023/09/digital-marketing-partner-checklist/   Podcast Overview: 04:21 Focus on one platform; it's not a sales tool. 06:48 Social media affects behavior and consumption habits. 12:14 Boost strategically using analytics; spend wisely. 12:58 Review insights regularly to boost engagement. 17:36 Set clear, measurable, time-bound marketing goals. 21:08 Instagram isn't ideal for targeting older demographics. 24:15 Companies overcharge small businesses for inadequate services. 28:49 Set clear goals when hiring a marketing company. 30:29 Include clear rates, tools, timelines, and commitments. 33:02 Clarify reporting: layman's terms or technical jargon? 36:45 Generative AI enhances images; ethical clarity needed. 41:53 AI generated content replaces traditional design work. 45:05 Websites cheaper than Tingles would terrify me. 48:07 Ensure logo uniqueness with Google image check. 51:52 Tingles 3-month hands-on internship for designers. 55:37 Seeking easygoing, adaptable team member for growth. 58:04 Prioritized well-being over business during COVID.   Podcast Transcription: Tara Ingalls [00:00:00]: I was on the phone, with somebody doing a marketing consult and found out that they're paying a company out of state for, about $52100 a month, and they don't know whether that's translating into business for them. James [00:00:14]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures. The business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers dot com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Tara Ingalls of Tingle's design for the 3rd time. Mhmm. That's how awesome of a guest you are. Tara Ingalls [00:00:38]: 3 Pete. James [00:00:39]: 3 Pete. So welcome to the show. Tara Ingalls [00:00:41]: Thank you for having me. James [00:00:42]: Thanks for being on here. So tell me a story. Let's just start with the the beginning, way back when. Tara Ingalls [00:00:49]: You always have me start in the beginning. James [00:00:51]: I know. Well, just for the people that weren't lucky enough to watch the first two. Tara Ingalls [00:00:53]: So I shouldn't look at the camera? I should look at you? No. James [00:00:55]: Just look we're just chilling.

Beth Skogen - Beth Skogen Photography On the Having the Eye for Beauty: "I think everybody's beautiful. Everybody." There is no such thing as an entrepreneur with just one idea.  Beth Skogen is a living embodiment of that fact.  Beth has a compelling journey that began with an internship at the prestigious VII Photo Agency in New York. Since starting her own photography business in 2009, she's captured authentic moments for businesses, families, and individuals, emphasizing original imagery over stock photos. Beth's entrepreneurial spirit extends beyond the lens. This is where it gets very interesting.  She's also the founder of the Vegan Sausage Fest, an event that offers plant-based food creations as a delicious alternative to traditional meat-heavy festivals. Held on Memorial Day weekend, the festival has grown from a shared dream with her friend Lauren to a community event attracting over 1500 participants. Beth's dedication to a vegan lifestyle even led her to start a vegan cycling team for RAGBRAI, a seven-day annual bike ride across Iowa. Her team, Powered by Plants Cycling, ensures that vegan participants have access to nutritious meals while on the road. Listen as Beth details how she built her photography business and rolled with a few changes, as well as how she started other ventures targeting a healthy lifestyle. Enjoy! Visit Beth at: Beth Skogen Photography: https://bethskogen.com/ Powered by Plants Cycling: https://www.poweredbyplantscycling.com/ Vegan Sausage Fest: https://www.vegansausagefest.com/ The Vibrant Veg: https://www.thevibrantveg.com/ Heartland Farm Sanctuary: https://heartlandfarmsanctuary.org/ IG: @bethskogen @poweredbyplantscycling @vegansausagefest   Podcast Overview: 04:43 Learning photography licensing; met photographers, inspired. 09:10 Internships helped transition to documentary photography business. 12:14 Friend documented birth; inspired me to photograph. 16:02 On-call birth duties caused scheduling conflicts. 18:37 Guiding options for hand placements during photos. 20:01 Helping people feel beautiful and comfortable photographed. 23:53 Ensure hair, bangs, and necklace placement correct. 28:00 Love capturing portraits and family life moments. 32:02 Volunteers chop salads, feed and muck stalls. 34:24 Volunteer or donate for Pasture Pals updates. 37:17 Laura Montalbano accepted my culinary request. 40:32 Planning campsites and unloading supplies for RAGBRAI. 41:54 Many food options, scarce healthy vegetable options. 45:23 Unique bao bun: Asian slaw, Sriracha aioli. 50:42 Loved the unique bean patty at bar. Podcast Transcription: Beth Skogen [00:00:00]: This isn't the best side of my face. And my response to that is, well, let's do both, and you'll get to choose later because you never know. James Kademan [00:00:11]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Download downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw On customers dot com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Beth Skogen of Beth Skogen Photography. So Beth, how is it going today? Beth Skogen [00:00:36]: I'm good. It's Thursday. James Kademan [00:00:38]: It is Thursday. I'm excited. I'm excited because I've known you, I think, since a long time when there were not so many digits in the 2000. And people said 10 years ago, and you thought you're talking about the nineties. So let's start with Beth Skogen Photography. Beth Skogen [00:00:54]: Mhmm. James Kademan [00:00:54]: What do you take pictures of? Beth Skogen [00:00:58]: I photograph people. Okay. Let's see. I photograph for businesses. I take branding photos, lifestyle photos. I also photograph families and interiors,

Hannah Hammond - The Firm On the Power of Having a Solid Team: "I think if you are your authentic self and you are putting yourself out there, then people who align with you are are gonna reach out to you and be like, I wanna work for you." Real estate investing is one of the best ways to grow your wealth.  But where do you start and how do you invest in real estate? Hannah Hammond was a self-made millionaire by the age of 25, has invested in residential and commercial properties, started her own real estate brokerage firm and has build a lending company to help get deals done.  On top of all of this, she happens to be an incredible person to chat with. Like the best entrepreneurs that find success, Hannah has taken on the mission of learning more so she can share more, helping other entrepreneurs and inspiring almost everyone that is lucky enough to meet her. Listen as Hannah shares her story, from starting and building her companies and the challenges she faced along the way.  Problems are a sign of life, and it is the grace that Hannah has shown as she navigated these problems that helped her grow into the powerhouse she is. Enjoy! Visit Hannah at: KashedLending.com and https://realestateatthefirm.com/   Podcast Overview: 00:00 Wanted wealth, found guidance in "Rich Dad Poor Dad." 06:11 Retired lender offers private loans in Arizona. 09:38 Managing a fund requires more diligence now. 12:22 Transitioning from microloans to broader real estate funding. 13:37 Small loans have higher interest; larger loans lower. 20:20 Seeking balance beyond work-focused identity through meditation. 21:46 Authenticity attracts aligned talent through social media. 27:05 Commercial real estate sales down significantly post-COVID. 28:57 High prices persist; real opportunities require recession. 32:57 Had to self-manage finances for better outcomes. 34:03 Started own brokerage to handle both markets. 38:05 Hire values-aligned, entrepreneurial, independent, self-led individuals. 42:54 Real estate remained my consistent career path. 44:25 Partnerships are challenging; independence feels compromised. 48:08 Sharing experiences organically attracts interested individuals. 50:54 Driven by healing childhood trauma and self-worth. 56:18 Assistants handle comments; direct messages prioritized. Podcast Transcription: Hannah Hammond [00:00:00]: I think if you are your authentic self and you are putting yourself out there, then people who align with you are gonna reach out to you and be like, I wanna work for you. And you almost get, like, a cult like following. James Kademan [00:00:15]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service, as well as The Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Hannah Hammond, the founder of HB Capital and The Firm RE. So, Hannah, how is it going today? Hannah Hammond [00:00:45]: It is awesome. Thank you so much for having me here today. James Kademan [00:00:48]: Yeah. I'm excited to talk real estate with you because, well, it's a shifting market, but shifting in different ways that I didn't necessarily expect with interest rates going higher and then kinda lower and all that. So let's just start with the foundation here. Tell us what you do. Hannah Hammond [00:01:05]: Yeah. So I, I'm here local in Arizona, and I own a real estate brokerage called The Firm, and we do commercial and residential purchases, sales, leasing for our clients. And I also have a national private lending company. So we specialize in offering bridge loans to real estate investors so they can acquire value add assets at a discoun...

Leo Kanell - 7 Figures Funding On the Power of Having a Solid Team: "If you're going to grow and scale something that is making money while you're on vacation and sleeping, then you got to have great leaders." Money makes the world go 'round.  This is especially true in business.  As your business grows, you may need to leverage money as a tool.  How do you get funding for your business? Leo Kanell, founder of 7 Figures Funding, explains how the business financing world works. We explore essential topics like the importance of maintaining a healthy business bank account balance, leveraging alternative lending options when traditional banks fall short, and the evolving landscape of virtual events and content marketing in B2B environments. Leo also shares valuable insights on sourcing and retaining quality employees, the significance of personal and business credit scores, and the nuances of effective incentive structures in sales. We'll hear inspiring success stories, such as a beauty salon owner who expanded her business thanks to 7 Figures Funding, and gain practical advice on managing cash flow, fostering a positive company culture, and continuous learning and improvement for business growth. Whether you're a startup or an established small business, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you secure financing, build strong credit, and thrive in today's competitive market. Listen as Leo explains what you can do to ensure that if and when you need funding, you have the right things in place to make it easy to get that yes from a lender. Enjoy! Visit Leo at: https://www.7figuresfunding.com/   Podcast Overview: 05:07 Return on loan matters more than interest rates. 07:14 Helping overlooked businesses thrive financially and succeed. 12:49 Keep your bank account and taxes in check. 14:48 Personal score: 720+; Build biz credit with three. 17:31 Dun and Bradstreet boosts your business credit. 22:49 Virtual events and videos are game-changers now. 26:09 Top performers don't always make great managers. 30:23 Misaligned incentives made financing operations inefficient. 32:47 Make sure you're getting quality, cash-boosting clients. 37:55 Pick smart banks for better business perks. 39:37 Fintech platforms make getting capital super easy. 43:04 Cash flow tool helps small businesses thrive. 48:01 Great leaders, keep learning, handle cash flow issues. Podcast Transcription: Leo Kanell [00:00:00]: The magic number is 25,000. So a lot of the time strategically, we're going to be able to get a client, you know, 4 or 5 lenders who each give them $25,000 And that's usually the magic number. James Kademan [00:00:16]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we are welcoming slash preparing to learn from Leo Kanell, the CEO and founder of 7 Figures Funding. I'm excited to have Leo on the show because today, we are talking money in business, which are 2 things that well, they go hand in hand, and they're a lot of fun. It's what we're doing here. So, Leo, how is it going today? Leo Kanell [00:00:55]: James, going awesome. Excited to connect with the audience, and there's no doubt about it. Business is an adventure. James Kademan [00:01:02]: I was just reading on your website. It's talking about cash flow, which is essentially the lifeblood of business. Leo Kanell [00:01:07]: For sure. James Kademan [00:01:08]: Let's start out with what is 7 figures funding. Leo Kanell [00:01:11]: Yeah. Great question. So, for the last decade, we've been, serving small business owners. There's 30,000,

Jonathan Mclean - Mclean Aesthetics On the Power of Getting the Right People: "If you hire the best of the best people in your market that bring innovative ideas, are ready to hit the ground running, your business is gonna take off like no other." Hiring can be tough. As a business owner, especially a business owner in the medical spa treatment arena, you have a lot to contend with. Keeping up with the latest trends, keeping an office and clinic space nice and marketing to bring in the clients. Adding in hiring a strong team and you have a recipe for burnout. Jonathan McLean of McLean Aesthetics is here to help you with that. With his business and his growing pool of solid applicants in the aesthetic industry he has helped many businesses find the right employee for their aesthetic practice. Jonathan takes us through the essential role of aestheticians in med spas, balancing injectables like Botox with overall skin health. We'll also explore the art of building a cohesive team by aligning employee passions with company goals, a strategy that fosters long-term commitment and growth. Jonathan shares his journey, from navigating the business side of aesthetics to providing sage advice on recruitment, employee retention, and leveraging social media to find top talent. We touch on industry trends, recruitment challenges, the importance of integrity, and the enormous potential within this thriving field. Listen as Jonathan details his recipe for success in finding and retaining great people. Enjoy! Visit Jonathan at: http://www.mcleanaesthetics.com/   Podcast Overview: 00:00 Curious about aesthetics business and client needs. 03:42 Research interests merge health, science, and pop culture. 09:08 Leveraging social media for job opportunities. 11:21 Dedicated professionals with extensive training and experience. 14:43 Med spa industry rapidly expanding with investment. 18:55 Verify legitimacy before med spa treatments, avoid danger. 22:33 Self-investment is crucial in medical industry careers. 25:51 Cultivate audience; clear job descriptions essential. 28:45 Add value and leverage industry's audience for growth. 32:21 Research market competitors to set optimal pricing. 35:10 Hiring top talent accelerates business success. 37:12 Understanding clients, candidate qualification, setting expectations. 42:02 Align passions of employees with company mission. 44:01 Interviewing reveals psychological patterns and challenges. Podcast Transcription: Jonathan McLean [00:00:00]: Every now and then you get somebody that thinks they're bigger than the program. And I, fortunately, I don't like to work with those type of candidates because it's a team atmosphere in these med spas, unless you're working doctor and you 1 on 1, there's really not too much room for an ego. James Kademan [00:00:15]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls On Call Extraordinary Answering Service, as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Jonathan McLean of McLean Aesthetics. So, Jonathan, how are you doing today? Jonathan McLean [00:00:44]: I'm doing good. I'm doing good. It's sunny where I'm at, and, yeah, I'm doing good. It's amazing. How are you? James Kademan [00:00:50]: Nice. I'm doing very well. I appreciate that. Thanks for being on the show. Tell me just so that the listeners understand, what is McLean Aesthetics? Jonathan McLean [00:00:59]: Yeah. So McLean Aesthetics is a niche aesthetic recruiting firm. So what we do is we focus solely on aesthetic businesses like med spas, dermatology offices, plastic surgery offices.

Julie Cropp Gareleck - Dare to Become On the Power of Drive: "If there was something we want, we built it. If there's something we needed, we would go get it." What could you become if only you trusted you could?  What is the worst case and best case for you getting out and trying to be this higher you? Julie Cropp Gareleck asked those questions and many more on her way to going from the corner booth to the corner office.  She shares her insights in her new book, Dare to Become. We have the inspiring Julie Cropp Gareleck, author of "Dare to Become" and founder of Junction Creative. Julie shares her invaluable insights on navigating the challenges of hiring and managing employees, understanding intergenerational work ethics, and balancing business growth with personal hurdles, such as infertility and motherhood. Julie and James also tackle the complexities and risks associated with AI-generated content and the importance of responsible usage to avoid plagiarism and misinformation. We'll explore how Julie's digital marketing firm adeptly responds to client turnover, the intricacies of hiring top-tier design talent, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing. Additionally, discover Julie's journey from her early career experiences to launching her own successful business, her motivations behind writing "Dare to Become," and her candid reflections on working through a high-risk pregnancy. Learn from her resilience and gain actionable advice for your entrepreneurial journey in this compelling episode of "Authentic Business Adventures." Don't miss out on our detailed discussions and personal anecdotes that offer a unique window into the entrepreneurial world! Enjoy! Visit Julie at: https://juliecroppgareleck.com/   Podcast Overview: 00:00 Looking back for inspiration, then wrote book. 04:14 In search of culture, founded Junction Creative. 06:33 Quit job due to manager's demeaning behavior. 09:40 Experienced in business, marketing, and strategy operations. 13:10 18 months: No employees, $1M revenue, overnight. 16:51 Adaptable and experienced designer excelling in digital era. 21:46 AI-generated marketing content lacked completeness, needed education. 24:19 AI as tool: do we need it everywhere? 27:01 AI takeover led to inaccuracies, health problems. 32:09 I've evolved, grown smarter, continually learning, adapting. 36:14 Ensured best food, coffee; created positive experiences. 37:52 Understanding and appreciating employees' individual paths fosters loyalty. 42:01 Paused growth to focus on health and family. 45:50 Writing always my passion; book inspires others. 47:56 Last-minute photo ended up on book cover. 51:36 Traditional publishing doesn't offer authors full control. Podcast Transcription: Julie Cropp Gareleck [00:00:00]: But I had to learn how to be a CEO and a mom 6 years into my journey, and boy was that a wake up call. And I while I could foresee that there was going to have to be a shift, I didn't anticipate the impact that those struggles would have. James Kademan [00:00:20]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Julie Cropp Gareleck. I hope I said that last name okay. I'm trying. Julie Cropp Gareleck [00:00:48]: No. It's okay. It's great. James Kademan [00:00:51]: Author of Dare to Become, which is somewhat exciting, from the corner booth to the corner office. So, Julie, how are you doing today? Julie Cropp Gareleck [00:00:58]: I'm doing well. I'm glad to be here. James Kademan [00:01:00]: Yeah. We're glad to have you.

Michael Silva - Physical Therapy Coach On Planning How to Market: "Different audiences react to different techniques." In this insightful episode of Authentic Business Adventures, host James Kademan sits down with Ross Jenkins, CEO of DigitalMe, to explore the intricacies of modern marketing. Ross shares invaluable tips and strategies on harnessing the power of email, SMS, and WhatsApp for business growth. From building strong email campaigns to leveraging WhatsApp for global outreach, this episode covers it all. Ross discusses the importance of knowing your audience, stating, “Understand who's purchasing. If most of your clients are middle-aged, male, and from California, then build a persona around that and market to it.” He emphasizes that a personalized approach to marketing is crucial for success. One of the highlights of the episode is Ross's insight into email and SMS marketing. He explains, “Text messages always deliver...there isn't a spam box inside of it, so they're always going to deliver.” He further delves into the technology behind SMS marketing and how tools like ActiveCampaign and WhatsApp are changing the game. If you're curious about the world of digital marketing, how to build effective campaigns, and why knowing your audience is more important than ever, this episode is for you! Tune in to this episode to learn: The benefits of email, SMS, and WhatsApp marketing. Why upselling is one of the most powerful yet overlooked tools in e-commerce. The future of marketing automation with tools like predictive send.   Available now on Spotify, YouTube, and all major podcast platforms. Remember to give us a thumbs up and share it with your entrepreneurial friends! Visit Ross at DigitalME.cc   Podcast Overview: 00:00 12 years in UK agency, communication struggles. 05:36 Credit card company sent 3 AM payment text. 06:24 PredictiveSend identifies your optimal email open time. 12:35 First business: SMS to PayPal payment solution. 14:00 WhatsApp marketing will overtake SMS usage. 17:26 Spoke to agencies, decided to work independently. 21:10 Fiverr's name misleads, targets prefer extensive projects. 23:52 Preferred Upwork/Fiverr for cost-effective freelance services. 28:08 Facebook ads, landing page, email, TikTok promotion. 29:34 Finish projects before starting new ones. 34:09 Segment audience by product interest for targeting. 38:19 Answering service unsuitable for low-cost transactions. 40:03 Boost value with add-ons during calls. 45:12 Tipping prevents bartenders from seeking other jobs. 47:19 Understand audience, build persona, market uniquely, use data. 50:22 Build connections with trustworthy, competent colleagues is crucial. Podcast Transcription: Ross Jenkins [00:00:00]: If you visit one of my clients' websites, it automatically gives them your email address and your IP address and various other things. It doesn't give the customer your IP address, but I believe retention has it. So then you can email market to them directly. So So you just visiting that website without even giving them your information. They already have it. James [00:00:22]: You have found authentic business adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Ross Jenkins, the CEO of Digital Me. So, Ross, how is it going today? Ross Jenkins [00:00:46]: Doing good. Thank you very much for having me on the podcast, James. James [00:00:49]: Yeah. I'm glad to have you. Today, we're talking marketing. So why don't we start with what is Digital Me? Ross Jenkins [00:00:55]: Sure. So Digital Me is a a full round agency that focuses,

Michael Silva - Physical Therapy Coach On Preparing For an Exit: "I pulled myself out. I was the least revenue generating team member out of my whole team at the time when I sold, so I wouldn't be handcuffed to the business." What if I told you a $195 physical therapy session might only be reimbursed at $59? In this episode, we sit down with business coach Michael J. Silva, who specializes in guiding physical therapists through the tricky terrain of insurance contracts and pricing. Michael breaks down how insurance companies dictate pricing for physical therapy services, leaving therapists with little say in how much they actually get paid. Using a simple yet powerful analogy about selling a cup of iced coffee, Michael illustrates the struggle between what a service is worth and what insurance will allow. But it's more than just numbers—this conversation digs deep into the effects this has on the quality of care, the business side of physical therapy, and the uphill battle many clinics face to stay profitable. From the frustrations of dealing with paperwork and low reimbursements to finding ways to offer preventative care despite insurance limitations, this episode uncovers the real costs that come with delivering healthcare. Whether you're a physical therapist, a business owner, or simply interested in the inner workings of the healthcare system, this episode is packed with insights you won't want to miss. Plus, hear how Michael successfully built and sold his practice, and how he now coaches other therapists to grow their businesses, avoid burnout, and navigate the insurance maze. Join us as we explore the highs and lows of physical therapy practices, with tips on how to thrive in a system that often feels like it's stacked against you. Visit Michael at: https://michaeljsilva.com/   Podcast Overview: 00:00 Created Run Strong to prevent runners' injuries. 06:51 Transitioning from PT to helping therapists grow. 15:04 My kids aren't interested in healthcare careers. 20:14 Health coach improving lives through somatic work. 22:03 Small practices struggle; larger, diverse ones thrive. 28:34 First client gained through friend's referral proves invaluable. 33:30 Doctors overwhelmed by high patient quotas, lower reimbursements. 37:25 Started business for health-conscious, motivated clients. 42:38 Ebook on business basics and core strategies. 50:07 Business coaching: prefer long-term packages for value. 51:57 Passionate focus, AI, streamline processes, healthcare change. Podcast Transcription: Michael Silva [00:00:00]: You this cup of iced coffee. Right? I could charge whatever I wanted for it. If you're in contract with an insurance company, I can say, okay. I wanna sell you this cup of physical therapy services, and I wanna charge a $195 for that session. And they're gonna On, no. If you want our clients, we're gonna pay you $59, and you'll take it or you won't see our clients. James Kademan [00:00:21]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found On the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, Calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing preparing to learn from Michael j Silva, the business coach specifically for physical therapists. So, Michael, how is it going today? Michael Silva [00:00:52]: It's going great. How are you doing, James? James Kademan [00:00:54]: I'm doing well. So tell me the physical therapist world in my mind, that's for people that are older broken. Right? Is that, I am guessing that is incorrect, Michael Silva [00:01:05]: but they are a, they are a frequent flyer of physical therapy services for sure. But physical therapy,

Victoria Thayer - Novii CPA On Preparing For the Future: "It's always about making sure that you have time as a business owner to keep thinking about, okay, where do I think the industry is moving to? Where is the next thing?" In this insightful episode, we sit down with Victoria Thayer, the dynamic founder of Novii CPA, who has rapidly grown her CPA firm in just over a year, now boasting a team of eight. Victoria shares her unique approach to accounting that goes beyond traditional tax preparation, emphasizing the importance of marketing, long-term strategy, and creating a business that thrives on innovation and client satisfaction. Join us as we delve into Victoria's journey from solo entrepreneur to business owner, where she discusses the challenges and triumphs of managing a growing team, the significance of a well-structured sales funnel, and how her firm has successfully integrated modern marketing techniques to stay top-of-mind in the industry. Victoria also opens up about her commitment to continuous improvement, including her decision to implement a 360-degree feedback system within her team. She candidly shares the lessons learned from this process, revealing how she's working on enhancing her communication and organizational skills to better lead her team. This episode is packed with valuable insights for business owners, particularly in the accounting industry, who are looking to scale their operations, improve team dynamics, and embrace a forward-thinking mindset. Whether you're a small business owner or a seasoned entrepreneur, Victoria's story will inspire you to think critically about your business strategy and the steps you can take to reach the next level. Don't miss this episode if you're interested in learning how to combine financial expertise with business acumen, all while fostering a culture of growth and innovation. Tune in to discover: The importance of balancing short-term and long-term marketing strategies. How to effectively manage and grow a team in a fast-paced business environment. The benefits of adopting a proactive approach to client services and internal operations. Key insights into the financial forecasting and strategic planning that drive business success. Listen now and learn from Victoria's journey as she continues to break new ground in the world of accounting and business management Visit Victoria at: NoviiCPA.com Podcast Overview: 00:00 Consider short and long term marketing strategies. 07:16 Contemplating business success and personal fulfillment. 15:17 Close working relationship, delegation, and operational improvement. 16:05 Initial investment in hiring to create value. 23:15 Dealing with challenges, support is beneficial. 31:02 Improving communication and prioritizing thoughts through organization. 35:07 Improving accountability, efficiency and mindset for success. 40:27 Parenting spurs personal growth and learning. 45:22 Financial modeling helps project future costs, revenue. 48:49 Plan ahead to avoid tax bill surprises. 55:52 Consulted accountant about different tax methods, changed approach. 58:57 Plan ahead for business growth, update strategies. Podcast Transcription: Victoria Thayer [00:00:00]: And now when I have an urge to message someone that is just scattered, it's nothing very urgent, I either message myself or I email myself all my random thoughts, and then at the end of the day, I create a concise email, like, okay, these are all the marketing things or sales things that I thought of. Here it is what the idea is, the reason why, and despite the deadline, or how important it is so that they have. Because otherwise they were like, I don't know what this even mean. James Kademan [00:00:34]: And today we're welcoming, preparing to learn from Victoria Thayer of Novi CPA. And, Victoria, it's been a year. Victoria Thayer [00:00:42]: It's been a year. Yes.

Benjamin Morone - Zabota On Preparing New Recruits: "So the biggest thing is making sure that that onboarding is really good with a company contextual onboarding. So what are the values, this is who we are, this is the org chart, this is our philosophies around payment, those types of things." Join us as Benjamin shares invaluable insights into the advantages of outsourcing, the art of precise positioning, and the secrets behind securing authentic testimonials from clients. We also explore the practicalities of hiring executive assistants, the metrics behind recruitment success, and the strategic benefits of tapping into a global talent pool. Whether you're a business owner looking to optimize your remote workforce or simply interested in the evolving trends of global staffing, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real-world experiences. Listen as Benjamin explains his tips and tricks for hiring, as well as the benefits of outsourcing for your business. Enjoy! Visit Benjamin at: https://www.zabota.io/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Create job description with brief, clear information. 05:38 Started with VAs, expanded to diverse roles. 07:38 Philippines time difference affects focus on business. 12:08 Direct hires with companies, no staffing agency fees. 14:44 Determining role, time zone, and budget considerations. 19:10 Executive assistant culture fit crucial for effectiveness. 23:32 Two types of executive assistants for hire. 25:02 Money-back guarantees and flexible 50% down payment. 29:29 Effective onboarding crucial for employee longevity, retention. 32:28 Changed name to show premium service care. 37:45 Screening process designed to gauge candidate authenticity. 40:04 Started staffing in Latin America due to accent. 44:11 Understanding roles and tasks for delegating effectively. 47:59 Client testimonials crucial for niche market success. Podcast Transcription: Benjamin Morone [00:00:00]: And the thing is everyone can recognize GED, like it's not that hard and it's very lengthy, it's very verbose with with all what it says. And so, we realized that like okay we need to make job descriptions that cut through the noise And so really making a job description that is is magnetic. So not using, like, cliche language, not saying, like, we're looking for a data driven guru or wizard who can, like, do this. Right? Like, people see those, and they just, like, cringe and shut off. That's what we found and that's what my recruiter said. She was, like, I applied to your job because you didn't have anything like that. You don't have, like, these weird buzzwords and it was just very short and you told me what I needed to know, the skills that I needed, the time zone, salary, like those types of things we we display. And people can make a a quick judgment on if they're gonna apply or not. James Kademan [00:00:50]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphs and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes of the podcast can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie as well as calls on call extraordinary answering service and the bold business book. Today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Benjamin Marone of Zubota. So, Benjamin, how is it going today? Benjamin Morone [00:01:20]: Everything's everything's good. Another day living the dream. Thanks for having me on, James. James Kademan [00:01:25]: Everything is good. That's says every business owner, but sometimes you can just tell that they're peddling their rails underneath. Let's start with what is Zibota. Benjamin Morone [00:01:35]: Yeah. So Zibota is a recruitment firm, that staffs talent from Central Eastern Europe and then also Latin America into businesses in the States Canada and the United Kingdom...

Thomas Castelli - Hall CPA On the Major Tax Value of Investment Real Estate: "When you buy a property, there's a noncash expense called depreciation. It's one of the biggest tax benefits of investing in rental real estate, and that's true whether you buy a rental property directly or whether you do it through a syndicate or fund." In the world of investing, you have a lot of options.  One investment that has proved timeless is real estate.  The globe is only so big, and owning a piece of it can be a profitable venture. But what are the tax implications of owning real estate?  Thomas Castelli of Hall CPA dives deep to illustrate what are some tax strategies to save on taxes and make real estate a worthwhile investment. We'll also touch on some advanced tax strategies, including the benefits of depreciation and cost segregation studies, and how they can meaningfully reduce your taxable income. Thomas will share insights on navigating the ever-changing interest rates, the strategic use of tax planning, and the essential role of a proactive tax strategist. Plus, he'll offer practical tips on identifying reliable sponsors and tax advisors, ensuring you maximize your investment returns while minimizing tax liabilities. Listen as Thomas lays out a plan for where to invest, how to invest and some tax strategies to make sure you get to keep most of your profit. Enjoy! Visit Thomas at: http://www.therealestatecpa.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Attended real estate association, learned about syndication. 06:04 Creating value through strategic commercial real estate investments. 09:42 Review sponsor's track record before investing. 12:44 Depreciation helps shield rental income from tax. 15:58 Depreciation recapture on $200,000 capital gain. 18:54 Depreciation calculation for $1 million property. 23:24 Property report details, desktop study for smaller properties. 26:55 Adapting tax reporting for past expenses possible. 29:29 Save $10,000 in taxes with tax strategist. 31:05 Leverage network, seek recommendations, vet through online content. 37:01 Joining community and listening to podcasts helpful. 39:28 Real estate plans changed due to COVID. 43:21 Avoid sponsors with consistent underperformance and issues. 44:47 Sponsors tested by asking extra questions. 49:53 Business success stories with sponsor acknowledgements and gratitude. Podcast Transcription: Thomas Castelli [00:00:00]: Typically, these these cost segregation studies that you could there's they're done 1 or 2 ways, typically. The first way, is you would have an engineer who who is well versed in this in in this area. They would come down and do a they would survey your property. Think about almost like an inspection. Right? They're coming down. They're surveying the property. They're taking inventory of every component, and they're gonna go back to their office and they're gonna give you a report. That report's gonna say, okay. Thomas Castelli [00:00:23]: Well, your property has it's gonna give you, like, an itemized report. Okay. This this amount of property is gonna be 27 and a half year property. This amount's gonna be 15 year. This amount's gonna be 5 year, and that 5 15 years was eligible for bonus appreciation. James Kademan [00:00:37]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link from the draw in customers.com. We are locally and written by the Bank of Sun Prairie. Calls on call extraordinary answering service as well as the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Thomas Castelli of Hall CPA. We're talking real estate, and we're talking taxes, which I guess in the end, if you're making money with real estate, taxes go right there. So, Thomas, how are you doing today?

Glenn Plumby - Retired COO and Author On the the Importance of Frontline Employees and Customer Service: "If that's a terrible experience, that guy could go on to have a terrible day." There are basically two ways to learn something.  Dig in and make your own mistakes, which will take years and a lot of time, money and effort, or learn from those that have already done it, which if you pay attention can be done in a few hours or sometimes just moments. Glenn Plumby went from COO of a major convenience store chain to a bestselling author of a book entitled, A Charmed Life, which outlines his life advice for those juggling life and work. Glenn shares valuable lessons from his extensive 41-year career, discussing everything from the importance of prioritizing relationships and adapting to life's changing priorities, to innovative marketing strategies and the complexities of labor management in the convenience store industry. He also touches on personal stories, such as learning to balance exercise and sleep and successfully navigating two marriages. Listen as Glenn delves deep into topics well outside of what I expected and into the tips, tricks and philosophies that can improve your life dramatically, if you take action on them. Enjoy! Visit Glenn at: https://www.amazon.com/Charmed-Life-Practical-Wisdom-Successful-ebook/dp/B0D3VM8VC5?ref_=ast_author_dp Podcast Overview: 00:00 Book addresses transition from academics to workforce. 09:29 Interest in extracurricular activities, soft skills crucial. 12:19 Successful loyalty program for convenience store chain. 19:24 Build diverse experience within a trusted company. 24:41 Labor key to customer service and satisfaction. 27:58 Store workers are undervalued during the pandemic. 35:52 Collaborated on book, marketed to universities successfully. 39:33 Building trust takes time, embrace people's identity. 46:10 Taught operations about marketing, built understanding. Supported growth. 52:32 Transition roles improve performance, provide soft landing. 56:26 Time pie changes at 40, prioritize wisely. 01:01:50 Second wife supported and understood work passion. 01:04:35 Spouse neglect, prioritize connection, avoid future regrets. Podcast Transcription: Glenn Plumby [00:00:00]: The marketing people, if they're in a silo, they're gonna come up with all these great ideas and half of them are stupid. Right? They sound good in a boardroom, but it just doesn't work. We always reverse engineer In and put operating people in marketing along with some marketing, you know, talented people, and we were able to do that. James Kademan [00:00:20]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link On at draw In customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie as well as calls on call extraordinary answering service and the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Glenn Plumby, operations and marketing expert, former executive vice president and CEO I'm sorry, COO of Speedway convenience store chain, and author of a great book called A Charmed Life. So, Glenn, how is it going today? Glenn Plumby [00:00:59]: Wonderful. Been looking forward to this, and, it's been a great day. James Kademan [00:01:05]: Yay. You know? I love having people like you on the show. The people that have been there, done that kind of thing In of just the ones that talk about In, they've actually experienced it, lived it. I don't maybe you're still living it. Just you actually have the experience to to back up the information and advice that you Glenn Plumby [00:01:23]: give. Yes. Yes. James Kademan [00:01:25]: So let's start from the beginning. How does somebody end up in the convenience store business?

Mike Schuster - FiddleSmart Marketing On the Getting Efficient Answers: "You might have people on the phone. It might be you, depending on your business, talking to owners, but you get the same kind of questions all the time when you're talking to people. So answer those on your website." Marketing and innovation are the two keys to success in business, or so the saying goes.  But how is a business owner supposed to market their business when they are not a marketing business, they are a business that does something else?  To get over this hurdle, a business can hire a marketing company. Mike Schuster, the founder of FiddleSmart Marketing joins us to chat about his business journey and adds some tips to successfully market your business. We delve into the importance of building business relationships and using marketing to scale them effectively. We discuss why the ultimate goal of a business shouldn't just be making money, but also serving a greater purpose and making a meaningful impact. Small business owners and entrepreneurs face unique challenges, and Mike shares his expertise on sustainable marketing strategies, ethical practices, and connecting with customers on an emotional level. Listen as we explore how to create enticing and user-friendly websites, the significance of transparency in pricing, and the pitfalls of chasing multiple marketing strategies simultaneously. Plus, Mike will reveal his journey from attending industry conferences to helping struggling businesses and ultimately starting his own marketing consultancy. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to boost your marketing game or simply interested in genuine business insights, this episode is packed with valuable takeaways. Enjoy! Visit Mike at: https://fiddlesmartmarketing.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Transitioned from corporate to entrepreneurial journey. 05:56 Attended conference, offered marketing analysis, confident in abilities. 07:15 Understanding industry dynamics and financial impacts. 12:05 Ensure consistent experience in-store and online. 13:02 Employees respond to hypothetical billboard question interestingly. 16:41 Balancing choices to avoid decision paralysis. 20:49 Forgetting names and occupations at social events. 25:01 Navigating marketing budgets for maximum impact and reach. 26:55 Pushback from ego-driven entrepreneurs on marketing ideas. 32:08 Daily crew email template measures customer assistance. 34:53 Motivation and pay raise didn't work. 37:44 Entice with samples, let the crowd come. 40:35 Observing food truck lines at Korn Fest. 43:13 Understanding interconnectedness of ideas and portability. 47:12 Provide detailed answers, pricing, and value. 49:19 Transparency in pricing prevents high-pressure sales. Podcast Transcription: Mike Schuster [00:00:00]: The reason I like small businesses and entrepreneurs is there's such a bigger mindset and a a passion and a purpose behind why they're doing what they're doing. James Kademan [00:00:13]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you to the struggle stories and strength and successes of business owners across the land. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Saint Prairie. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Mike Shuster, the owner of Fiddle Smart Marketing, which means that we're talking about marketing. So Mike, how is it going today? Mike Schuster [00:00:39]: Yeah. It's going really well. James Kademan [00:00:41]: I'm excited to have you because marketing game, I mean, it's very broad. Right. James Kademan [00:00:45]: it's a big game. So let's start out. Just let the world know what is Fiddlesmart Marketing. Mike Schuster [00:00:50]: Yeah. So FiddleSmart Marketing is a practice I started about 5 years ago,

Valerie McGeHee PhD - Author of Atomic Grit On the Her Recipe for Success: "If you had grit, if you could set goals, and you had some sort of social support, which was the missing piece, which is accepting help from others, accepting, mentoring for account help getting help with accountability, you would be successful." Just about every successful business owner has learned, often the hard and expensive way, that you often need to dig deep and find the drive and passion to push through whatever the current obstacle is so that they can keep moving forward.  This is something like what people refer to as grit. Valerie McGeHee, a dynamic leader, author, and motivational speaker, shares her compelling story of grit and perseverance that led her to achieve incredible milestones, including the launch of her impactful book, "Atomic Grit."  This is a skill that is not a nice to have for entrepreneurs, this is a must have. Listen as Valerie explains what is needed for all business owners to find and use their grit.  She also shares some incredible tips to help you get moving in your business. Enjoy! Visit Valerie at: https://valeriemcgeheephd.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Dissertation struggle leads to embracing social support. 03:18 Setting goals, grit, and social support success. 07:10 Epilogue shares story of challenging school experience. 10:31 Received college scholarship, achieved academic success. Taught. 14:41 Unexpected journey from teaching to business sales. 17:48 Importance of career guidance for younger people. 20:35 Decade of experience prepares for educational sales. 25:17 Teaching English in China, juggling multiple jobs. 27:20 Many lack goals and motivation for success. 31:24 Leadership and management: challenging but fulfilling. 36:18 Know numbers, communication, leadership, be always prepared. 38:33 Senior leaders are great at storytelling with data. 42:34 Delayed response, professor support, husband coaching dissertation. 45:25 Moments of achieving ultimate happiness in accomplishing. Podcast Transcription: Valerie McGeHee [00:00:00]: So prior to being committed to this, it would ruin my day, my week if somebody asked, oh, are you finished yet? And I'm like, not yet. James [00:00:10]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes. Business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie and calls on call extraordinary answering service as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Valerie oh, my goodness. Valerie McGeHee. Did I say the name right, Valerie? Valerie McGeHee [00:00:40]: Right. Valerie McGehee. James [00:00:42]: Alright. Author of Atomic Grit, which that's gonna be 1 of the coolest names of a book that I've ever heard. So, Valerie, how is it going today? Valerie McGeHee [00:00:51]: It's great. It's a beautiful day in Atlanta. And, I'm loving being an executive and now a new author. So it's James [00:01:00]: Nice. Valerie McGeHee [00:01:01]: Can't complain. James [00:01:02]: So let's let's start with the the Atomic Grit book. Valerie McGeHee [00:01:05]: Yeah. James [00:01:06]: What triggered you? What was the big inspiring moment or 2 that caused you to write that book? Valerie McGeHee [00:01:12]: So it began with my doctoral dissertation, which I did on grit goal setting and social support. And I had always been an overachiever my entire life. And I got to a point where I was stuck, and I could not finish writing my dissertation. And I was like, what the heck? I could I mean, I've accomplished so many things and did most of them by myself. So it was fun, but it was also a lonely journey of accomplishments.

Larry Pendleton - Larry Pendleton CPA On the Getting the Right People: ""I gotta be able to kind of find the right people to trust instead of finding someone that I halfway trust and I gotta oversee every every step of the way." Just about every successful business owner has learned, often the hard and expensive way, that taxes can be a heavy burden to carry.  Once your business starts bringing in some money, after going through all of the sweat and challenges, you learn that the government wants a very large piece.  But how do savvy business owners navigate the tax code? They do it with skilled CPA's that do more than just enter numbers and spit out results.  They do it with careful tax strategy to help you and your business make smart moves before it is tax time. Larry Pendleton is a CPA that went from hustling numbers like most accountants to really bringing tax strategy to his clients.  Larry shares his transformative journey from having a limited mindset to becoming an astute real estate investor, thanks to the guidance of a trusted partner. We explore Larry's first profitable residential investment, the challenges of dealing with contractors, and his strategic pivot from property flipping to new construction for better stability and lower risk. Larry sheds light on the intricacies of cost segregation, a powerful tax strategy popularized by the 2017 tax reforms, and discusses the depreciation rules that real estate investors navigate. We also delve into the concept of self-directed retirement accounts, a game-changing financial tool that allows for diverse investment options beyond traditional stocks and bonds. Listen as Larry gives details and strategies for both business taxes as well as real estate investing. Enjoy! Visit Larry at: LarryPendletonCPA.com Podcast Overview: 00:00 Former athlete advising on tax strategies and coaching. 05:15 Accountant becomes year-round adviser and coach. 13:09 Struggling with project, need trustworthy professionals. 15:57 Adapting real estate investments to market changes. 22:45 Rolling over retirement accounts, choosing short-term investments. 29:44 Lack of promotion of self-directing investments. 31:30 Investors look for credibility, security in deals. 38:05 Explore budgeting, technology, and planning for accounting. 45:27 Clients aspire to be investors, achieving freedom. 49:50 Public accounting firms specialize in different areas. 55:52 Depreciation benefits and potential government changes summarized. 57:41 Understanding tax savings and depreciation in investments. 01:04:03 Quick cost assessment for new construction. Podcast Transcription: Larry Pendleton [00:00:00]: Then you wanna know, okay, how much you how much is needed? How is secured? Like, who are you? Like like, what's your credibility and and and and what's my returns are going to be. But it's the security aspect of where like, are you sure, like like like if everything goes wrong, like am I at least gonna be like make my money back where, like, with with stocks and bonds, like, you can really lose everything. You can lose everything in real estate as well, but that's more so just not doing the proper due diligence, not, not really knowing what you're doing. James Kademan [00:00:33]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, a business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie as well as calls on call extraordinary answering service and the Bold Business Book. Today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Larry Pendleton, CPA and tax investment coach. So, Larry, how is it going today? Larry Pendleton [00:01:04]: It's going great, James. Thanks for having me. How are you doing? James Kademan [00:01:07]: I'm doing well.

Mickie Kennedy - eReleases PR Agency On the Knowing Your Audience: "A journalist's job is, of course, to produce content. But even more importantly is to keep their audience happy." News is everywhere, and most of it isn't exactly positive.  A lot of it is pretty morbid and serves only to bring the eyeballs to whatever medium the news is being presented on.  But those eyes are watching and reading and interested in this information that is taken as fact, almost to a fault. Which means that press releases can be a more powerful tool than a typical advertisement, which does not have the trust that a news article does. How do you get press releases written and released for your business? Mickie Kennedy, founder of eReleases, brings over 25 years of expertise in the PR world to his business, helping small businesses craft and distribute impactful press releases. Listen as Mickie explains why the majority of press releases should be concise, the art of adding human interest elements, and how to build meaningful relationships with journalists. Mickie also sheds light on the early days of Google's pay-per-click advertising and why he remains cautious about using AI for press releases. Plus, we'll uncover practical tips on leveraging earned media for SEO benefits, the importance of strategic PR campaigns, and the potential financial rewards of a well-executed press release. Enjoy! Visit Mickie at: https://www.ereleases.com/ Podcast Overview: 05:30 Leverage newswires for wide-reaching press release. 11:39 News organizations pull and license articles from wires. 19:26 Effective PR is about building relationships, not databases. 21:25 A la carte, packages, and press releases. 27:30 Small businesses benefit from sharing relatable stories. 36:13 Small businesses at risk, targeted for breach. 40:46 People can write press releases, AI helps. 46:37 Build relationships with top media outlets. 49:28 Reach out, highlight green efforts, standout quotes. 57:30 Media articles build trust and influence conversion. 01:01:24 PR campaigns need 6-8 releases for success. 01:04:19 Regret over wasted money on ineffective PR. Podcast Transcription: Mickie Kennedy [00:00:00]: Had one client come to me and say, hey, Mickie. I followed your advice, but now my customers are mad at me. And I said, well, then you didn't you didn't follow my advice if your customers are mad at you. 1st rule is do not alienate your existing customer base. James Kademan [00:00:14]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomerscom. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie as well as calls on call extraordinary answering service, and, of course, the bold business book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Mickey Kennedy of Ereleases, the PR model of the world, I suppose you would say, or something of that nature. So, Mickey, how is it going today? Mickie Kennedy [00:00:51]: It's going well. How are you? James Kademan [00:00:52]: I'm doing very well. Tell me just really briefly, I guess, in a nutshell, what is ereleases? Mickie Kennedy [00:00:59]: So ereleases is a press release distribution platform. I started it a little over 25 years ago. I started it as a database of journalist. I was doing PR and I was faxing at the time and a lot of journalists started requesting it for me to just email them. And I was like, wow, email is so much easier. And so I just started reaching out to journalists and building a database and took about a year. And I launched with 10,000 journalists who said I could send them press releases. And I was just a matchmaker sending press releases to journalists. Mickie Kennedy [00:01:37]: And, over the years,

Jamie Gale - Helping Leaders Create Content and Podcast Guru On the Power of Gratitude: "People that are grateful, abundance tends to come to them." Podcasts.  Almost everybody has them, almost everybody listens to them.  But how do you as a business owner get a podcast going?  Should you get a podcast for your business? Jamie Gale, serial entrepreneur and podcast builder for businesses in many areas explains how podcasts work and if you should get a podcast for your business. The dynamic entrepreneur Jamie Gale delves into the essential aspects of launching and promoting a successful podcast, emphasizing the importance of investing in quality equipment and clear branding. She also shares her robust marketing strategies and highlights the significance of constructive feedback versus protective criticism when starting a business. Jamie, owner of Jamie Gale LLC, brings a wealth of experience from teaching kids yoga to managing a podcast network. She offers profound insights into managing business risks and the transition from in-person to virtual support during COVID-19. Tune in to discover Jamie's journey from a nonprofit marketer to a successful entrepreneur, her tips for podcast production, and her mentorship for business-owning moms. Listen as Jamie explains all that podcasting involves and if it is right for your business. Enjoy! Visit Jamie at: https://www.jamiegalellc.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Started kids' yoga company, expanded to include parents. 06:02 Passion for kids yoga led to entrepreneurship. 09:20 Teaching kids yoga to promote mental wellness. 13:00 Balancing projects with family and childcare. 14:59 Growth through small steps and collaboration with educators. 18:06 Business grew organically through minimal marketing efforts. 20:16 Created personal and professional development group for moms. 24:30 Certifications and training to lead diverse groups. 28:43 Identify supportive voices and filter their feedback. 31:12 Starting a business was treated casually by narrator. 35:46 Entrepreneurial-minded individuals face fear in business. 37:59 Preference for in-person meetings over virtual. 40:49 Enthusiastic podcast consumer embraces learning about production. 43:45 Podcast networks support shows in various ways. 48:22 Invest in a good mic for clarity. 52:54 Video editing more laborious than audio. Consider audience preferences, add video accordingly. Podcast Transcription: Jamie Gale [00:00:00]: But, I really urge my clients to think anytime their mom, let's just in this example, says something like, what are you gonna do if nobody buys it? Instead of feeling like, yeah. What am I gonna do if nobody buys it? You know, that that they say she's just coming from a place of protection. James Kademan [00:00:18]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, a business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link found at draw in customers dot com. Today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Jamie Gale, the owner of Jamie Gale LLC. And today, on this podcast, we're talking podcast. So, Jamie, how is it going today? Jamie Gale [00:00:46]: It's going awesome. I'm really glad to be here. James Kademan [00:00:49]: Yeah. Thanks for being on the show. So tell us just to lay a foundation here. What is Jamie Gale LLC? Jamie Gale [00:00:55]: Yeah. So Jamie Gayle LLC is my company. I own a program agency, and through that, I develop and operate programs in 2 main areas. 1 is for kids and families. So I have own a kid's yoga company. I co direct a summer day camp and after school enrichment program. I have trainings for educators. And then the other section of my programs is for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Jamie Gale [00:01:18]:

Sue Gresham - The LinkedIn Lady On the Power of Gratitude: "People that are grateful, abundance tends to come to them." Social media for grown-ups is really what LinkedIn has become.  It is the place to be as a professional and as a person wanting to connect with business owners and professionals to help you on your professional journey. But like most social media channels, there are a ton of different things you can do and the rules are always changing.  This means it helps to have a professional help you get the most out of your time on the LinkedIn platform. Sue Gresham, the LinkedIn Lady, as she is affectionately called, helps people with their LinkedIn profiles.  With this truly inspiring guest, we're diving deep into the world of LinkedIn—covering everything from crafting impactful posts to leveraging the platform for professional networking and personal branding. Sue shares her invaluable insights on creating meaningful content that resonates with your audience, the balance of providing value vs. selling, and the importance of consistency and authenticity. We'll also explore the do's and don'ts on LinkedIn, including avoiding scams and fake profiles, and Sue's personal journey of rediscovery and entrepreneurship after losing her job during the 2008 recession. Listen as Sue explains how she has built her business and some tips to how you can improve your LinkedIn profile. Enjoy! Visit Susan at: https://www.sue-gresham.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Networking encounters often involve vague corporate language. 05:58 Many people not using LinkedIn regularly for networking. 06:50 Professional social site with occasional political content. 10:51 Building trust and awareness for authentic branding. 15:44 "Connecting on LinkedIn: known vs. everyone" 19:54 Scrolling on Facebook for personal and learning. 22:36 LinkedIn constantly changing look, adding video features. 26:20 Email marketing targets audience, with varying costs. 29:37 Suspicion of identity theft schemes and scams. 33:30 Massive unemployment led to widespread job loss. 34:59 Struggled to find direction, now teaches LinkedIn. 38:19 Initially built business through personal referrals and networking. 43:56 Received severance pay, traumatic, found support, passion. 47:34 Discovering impactful stories, knowledge, and emotional intelligence. 51:24 Helping entrepreneurs elevate their business through LinkedIn. Podcast Transcription: Sue Gresham [00:00:00]: The skills area has changed 18 different ways, 20 different times as far as how it looks, where it's showing up, the value, how it's weighed in the algorithm. So there's a lot of that stuff that's constantly happening with LinkedIn. But the bottom line is that LinkedIn is was started for job seekers and for people for their for career advancement. That has not changed. James Kademan [00:00:27]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, a business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found on the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, calls on call extraordinary answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Sue Gresham, the LinkedIn lady. So, Sue, how are you doing today? Sue Gresham [00:00:55]: I'm just doing great. Thanks for asking, James. James Kademan [00:00:58]: Yeah. So LinkedIn lady, tell me a story. You got that name for a reason, I imagine. Sue Gresham [00:01:04]: I did. It's it's very interesting, maybe. We'll see. I guess you can decide. You can tell me if it's interesting. James Kademan [00:01:11]: I will just go on and assume that it's interesting. Sue Gresham [00:01:13]: Alright. So, a tiny bit of backstory is that I am out, I am located in Hartland, Wisconsin,

Eric Cogorno - YouTube Golf Education On Believing In Yourself: "That was the first time that my brain felt like it was allowed to think big enough.  It was the first time I really allowed myself to imagine, what would even be possible here?" Just about every kid wants to be famous on YouTube.  Many adults have the same desire.  But what does it take to make it on YouTube? Eric Cogorno has made a name for himself in the golf world.  Through his videos and lessons he has taken his skills and brought them to life for others to grow with.  He has taken his skills and made a career out of them. Today we'll explore Eric's innovative approach to content creation, his strategic use of platforms like YouTube, and the lessons he learned from industry giants like Tony Robbins and Grant Cardone. We'll also discuss the challenges of standing out in a saturated market, the importance of finding the right partners and employees, and the value of pushing through discomfort for personal and professional growth. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, a social media enthusiast, or just curious about golf, there's something here for you. Listen as Eric discusses his process and the path he has built and followed to lead to the success that many YouTubers, myself included, can learn from. Enjoy! Visit Eric at: https://cogornogolf.com/ and https://www.youtube.com/c/EricCogornoGolf Podcast Overview: 00:00 Video editing requires a lot more work. 07:30 Three buckets: content, editing, and engagement. 15:22 Watched goal-setting video, expanded mindset, new possibilities. 21:42 Realizing need for backup plan after college. 24:31 Coaches feel insecure and over deliver. 28:39 Utilized social media for financial and coaching growth. 35:49 Seeking insight on coaching and taking action. 39:26 People have pain threshold for achieving goals. 47:45 Delegate tasks to specialists for faster, better results. 51:40 Analytical guy trusts gut, values quick onboarding. 59:39 Slow and steady growth, prioritize main goals. 01:03:58 Analyzing content for patterns and themes. 01:09:49 YouTube is my main focus, not Instagram. 01:12:34 Key conversation can make 1000s. Marketing efforts initiated. 01:22:14 Confusion over golf and desire to learn. Podcast Transcription: Eric Cogorno [00:00:00]: And I think a common trait of a lot of coaches in the beginning is when you feel insecure and probably in a lot of transactions, we tend to over deliver or over give too much talk and too much information. Like when I get a golf lesson now, James, just to put in perspective, I might give a student one, maybe 2 main things to work on. Probably like if you delve into someone's business model and you're like, hey, we gotta focus on, like, this one thing first. Same thing with a golf lesson. But in the beginning, when you're nervous, you know what's going on. I might be slinging out 10 things. I mean, I'm giving them all kinds of stuff to do and then nothing gets done. James Kademan [00:00:35]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and strength and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers .com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie and calls on call answering service, as well as the Bold Business Book. And today we are welcoming slash preparing to learn from Eric Cugorno, how to build an online coaching business. So, Eric, hopefully, I didn't butcher your last name too bad. How is it going today? Eric Cogorno [00:01:08]: Yeah. Everything's good. You said that perfect. Most people have a hard time with that. That was, that was perfect, man. Everything's great. Appreciate you having me here, James, and look forward to, providing some value for the audience. James Kademan [00:01:17]: Yeah. So just so the audience knows,

Melissa Brumm - Slow Life Revolution On Achieving Victory in Business: "So it's sort of like if we help them win, we win. And then if we keep helping them win, we win. Everyone wins." Every entrepreneur shares at least two common traits: 1) They have boundless ideas and 2) They are crazy busy trying to keep up with all that they have going on. Melissa Brumm has taken these two challenges and created a coaching program to help entrepreneurs understand control amongst all of the technology that is endless in it's demand for our attention. On top of all of this, Melissa discusses her many other business pursuits, including "Melvis.Rocks" and explore her passion projects, as well as her work with a Beatles tribute festival outside Louisville, Kentucky. We'll also chat about her experiences in the entertainment world, her mother's influence in music and broadcasting, and her ventures in event planning, yoga instruction, and horticulture therapy. Plus, don't miss her insights on the impact of technology on our daily lives and her heartfelt stories about pursuing her dreams. Listen as Melissa explains the trials and tribulations of being an entrepreneur full of ideas and learning how to act on only a few of them. Enjoy! Visit Melissa at https://www.melissalbrumm.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Response to overwhelming connectivity, advocating for relaxation. 03:58 Modern overwhelm: online, emails, constant mental clutter. 08:34 Questioning the need for social media validation. 10:51 Balanced perspective on technology and self-worth. 14:31 Encourage interaction instead of phone distractions. 17:56 Questioning the need for constant entertainment. 21:06 Unexpected journey from joke to professional singing. 22:50 Humorous performances featuring Sunny and Cher impersonations. 26:29 Livestreaming singing and dancing from bedroom setup. 29:55 Feeling safe in Halloween costume, gaining confidence. 35:05 Preference for various music acts and impersonations. 35:48 Admiration and amusement for impressive skills. 41:44 Connecting with nature through hands-on activities. 43:28 Certified yoga instructor planning meditation retreats. 47:22 Introduced to playing cello out of obligation. 51:30 Mechanic has expensive equipment but no profit. 52:18 Business program showcasing owner's struggles and successes. Podcast Transcription: Melissa Brumm [00:00:00]: There is something to, like, horticulture therapy of, like, getting your hands dirty, working with your hands to, like, get you out of that mental, like, yeah. Just being, like, oh, I need to get that thing done. And you respond to that person. It's just, like, no. Just to put your hands in some dirt. James Kademan [00:00:16]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, a business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. We're locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Melissa Brum, the founder of Slow Life Revolution. So Melissa, how is it going today? Melissa Brumm [00:00:42]: It's great. James Kademan [00:00:43]: It's good. Just fine. Melissa Brumm [00:00:46]: It's good. Yeah. Alright. It's really stressful, you know, it's a little stress stressful time right now, but James Kademan [00:00:50]: Because of being on the show? Yeah. I'm sorry. No. So other just stuff going on. Melissa Brumm [00:00:56]: Just life, you know. Yeah. Alright. All the different things I got going on in my head, which you'll Yeah. Right. We're about James Kademan [00:01:02]: to crack that can right open here. Yeah. Melissa Brumm [00:01:04]: How are you? James Kademan [00:01:05]: I'm doing tip top. Good. I got a super awesome guest in the studio here today, so I can't go wrong.

Clayton Bates - Shopify Expert On Achieving Victory in Business: "So it's sort of like if we help them win, we win. And then if we keep helping them win, we win. Everyone wins." Shopify has grown to be dominant force in the e-commerce world.  Holding about 20% of the market share of e-Commerce platforms, it allows sellers to get up and running quickly.  But how do you take your Shopify store from existence to actually making sales? Clayton Bates is a Shopify Expert.  He helps Shopify store owners build their stores and get them known to customers that buy.  One of only a few certified Shopify Experts, Clayton has seen it all and shares his insights. In this episode, we dive deep into the strategies that have made Clayton a sought-after consultant, from leveraging personalized Loom videos to building rapport by offering free value upfront. We'll explore the significance of Shopify 2.0, the growing trend of businesses migrating to Shopify, and the importance of a simple, user-friendly website structure for maximizing conversions. Clayton also discusses the vital role of social media in driving traffic to Shopify stores and how businesses are using unique approaches to grow their customer base. Plus, we uncover five common mistakes Shopify store owners make and the essential factors that influence success in the competitive world of e-commerce. Listen as Clayton explains his steps to help grow Shopify businesses and how you can grow your Shopify business as well. Enjoy! Visit Clayton at: https://www.inspiresmallbusiness.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Analytics show low conversion, high potential profit. 04:53 Chose to learn and build, gained agency. 08:42 Became Shopify expert, handled surge in leads. 10:45 Previous employees struggled, eventually found skilled coder. 12:54 Insecurity and growth in freelance quoting experience. 16:19 Free software advice, grabs attention, builds rapport. 22:23 Scanning and adding trading cards to website. 24:23 Shopify Expert hiring process changed 6 months ago. 28:17 Shopify prioritized country, mostly Australia, few clients. 31:11 Using images and headings can improve readability. 35:59 "Time is finite, use it wisely. Conversion rates?" 37:04 Good images, structure, and user experience important. 43:16 Experienced consultant helps businesses optimize conversion rates. 46:04 Focus on building relationships, not just websites. 47:17 Help clients grow and we succeed together. Podcast Transcription: Clayton Bates [00:00:00]: It'll tell you, like, conversion rate is 1%. Average order value is $50. Returning customer Bates 15%. The traffic is coming from here. People landing on the home page this many times, this many traffic. So it's got basically everything sort of thing. So, yeah, I'm very good at, like, just looking at analytics and being like, oh, how are you not making $10,000 extra a month? And then we rebuild the website. They make 10,000 extra sort of thing. Clayton Bates [00:00:26]: So it's sort of like I can't explain how my brain actually can do it probably, but normally, if I say, like, 5,000, I'll make 10,000 extra. So I normally lowball myself. So James Kademan [00:00:40]: You have found Authentic business adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomerscom. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today, we are welcoming slash preparing to learn from Clayton Bates, the founder of Inspire Small Business, a Shopify expert. So, Clayton, how is it going today? Clayton Bates [00:01:06]: Yeah. Good. Thanks. Thanks for having me. James Kademan [00:01:08]: Yeah. Thanks for being on here. So let's for the people, I'm gonna say more or less like me, tell us, just broadly speaking, what is Shopify? Clayton Bates [00:01:17]:

Phil Anderson - Candidate for US Senate On Discovering a Disturbing Truth: "It was an indication to me right off the bat that things weren't being run as honestly and fairly and democratically as I had thought they were." It is a rare person that believes that any government is doing the best job they can for the people they are supposed to represent.  But while most people complain or attempt to solve these problems from their arm chairs, Phil Anderson is actually getting up and doing something about it. We cautiously venture into the realm of politics with our guest, Phil Anderson, a dynamic figure running as an independent candidate for the U.S. Senate. We'll explore his personal insights into the process of running for political office, the intense challenges faced by third-party or independent candidates, and his distinct strategies for engaging in a political landscape dominated by two major parties. We discuss the challenges facing anyone running for office and the deeper challenges when you are not backed by one of the 2 major parties.  We also discuss the limitations that the 2 party system has caused, likely by design of the 2 parties in this 2 party system. Listen as Phil explains his journey that led to him running for many political seats, from governor to senator. Enjoy! Visit Phil at: https://www.andersonforussenate.com/ 00:00 Life-long political observer runs for Senate. 05:58 Efficient time use for volunteer door-knocking. 09:04 Ran for office, gained experience, learned campaigning. 12:39 Russian man stranded on island, rescued after 20 years. 14:31 Acknowledging US government's historical influence on people. 17:05 Presidents lack control, donors hold the power. 22:08 Politics fueled by tribalism and climbing ambition. 23:50 Grown from small group to widespread support. 28:13 Gaining media attention and increasing poll numbers. 31:03 Libertarian candidate considered, family support emphasized. 35:32 Campaign staff working to gather signatures. 37:41 Traveling across state to meet supporters. 40:17 Campaign emphasizes disrupting corruption, capturing protest vote. 44:04 Fundraising for debates, past donors, phone calls. 45:57 Candidate seeks open dialogue & accountability from opponents. 48:49 Debate criteria restrict independent and third-party candidates. Podcast Transcription: Phil Anderson [00:00:00]: The people that I worked with were very nice, the local people. But you could see, like, the I don't even know what the word is for it. But like the the tribalism that went on and my experience was with the Republican party in Wisconsin, but I'm sure it's the same with the Democrats. This tribalism and everyone's desire to climb, it was really more a lot of people that were trying to work up the ladder either in running for public office or in the administration or bureaucracy of the party, and that's all they were about. James Kademan [00:00:30]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and strength and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers dot com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie, and today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Phil Anderson for US Senate here. So, Phil, how is it going today? Phil Anderson [00:00:54]: Fantastic. Thanks for having me. I appreciate it very much. James Kademan [00:00:56]: And I'm excited to chat with you because I don't know that I've actually conversed with anyone that was running for office to learn about the ins and outs of what it takes to actually run for office. There's a lot Phil Anderson [00:01:07]: to it. When I first started, I ran for office for the first time in 2014 and knew basically nothing, just decided that I needed to do something and then discovered things along the way.

Nathan Boehm - Diventures - Sun Prairie, WI On Knowing Where to Set the Bar: "Always the goal for the first day is not to cry in the water. You know, set it nice and low.." Nathan will share with us the fascinating growth story of Diventures from a modest beginning to an enterprise spanning 18 locations nationwide offering an array of aquatic services, including a robust swim school and exciting scuba diving adventures. Nathan dives into the intricacies of managing such a complex operation, touching on everything from the difference between dry suits and wetsuits to the challenges of teaching swimming techniques effectively. He'll also discuss the importance of building lasting relationships with clients and how he's helping the business thrive by fostering a community through swimming, whether they're four months old or part of the senior citizens' classes. Listen as Nathan explains the ins and outs of getting both kids and adults in the pool and learning how to swim comfortably and while having fun. Enjoy! Visit Nathan at: https://www.diventures.com/locations/sun-prairie/ 00:00 Classroom work then certification vacations to dive. 04:55 Transition ideas from womb to water, baby excels. 07:51 Living in tent after rent increase, job searching. 12:29 "Rewarding aquatics work with special needs children." 15:23 Comparing strength and swimming technique casually. 16:35 I run the business and have employees. 20:32 Testing water pH using colorful science kit. 24:51 Parents can start swim lessons at age three. 26:26 Free trial swim lessons offered for parents. 30:23 Flippers used for fun and better swimming. 33:57 Coordinate movements, maintain momentum, and express emotion. Podcast Transcription: Nathan Boehm [00:00:00]: You can totally default the doggy paddle. Just make sure you're not doggy paddling like this. And you want to have your arms out a little bigger. James Kademan [00:00:04]: Okay. Nathan Boehm [00:00:05]: So you can move more water, man. James Kademan [00:00:06]: That's great advice. Nathan Boehm [00:00:06]: No, you can't. You can't be a t rex and swim, right? No t rex arms allowed. You need big arms. James Kademan [00:00:11]: All right. Nathan Boehm [00:00:11]: You need bigger. Unless you have a tail. If you have a tail, then you could be a dinosaur. So, yeah, most kids don't have a tail either, so that's usually what I tell them. Yeah, if you have a tail, you can totally swim however you'd like. James Kademan [00:00:22]: You have found authentic business adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle, stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link. Found@drawincustomers.com we are locally underwritten by the bank of Sun Prairie, and today I am welcoming, preparing to learn from Nathan Boehm, the aquatics experience manager at Dive ventures in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin. So, Nathan, how is it going today? Nathan Boehm [00:00:50]: It's going good. Thanks for having me. I appreciate it. I was looking forward to this. James Kademan [00:00:53]: Yeah, this is exciting. Aquatics experience manager. Tell me about that. Nathan Boehm [00:00:57]: Yeah, so, yeah, I handle the day to day operations of the diventures in the swim school side of things, so enrolling people into swim lessons, training the instructors, overseeing the swim program, and making sure everybody's having a happy and fun time. Yeah. James Kademan [00:01:12]: So diventures, is that franchise or is that so? Nathan Boehm [00:01:14]: No, we have one single owner. His name is Dean Hollis. He's a wonderful man. We started in Omaha, Nebraska. James Kademan [00:01:19]: Oh, wow. Nathan Boehm [00:01:20]: And then when I came on, and I started in 2020. Yeah, you wouldn't think of like a swim school dive location, Omaha, Nebraska. But people like to travel,

Randy Lenz - Real Estate Agent Extraordinaire On the Cost of Change: "It's a little bit daunting right now because some of the new people coming in have no clue how they're even going to get paid." We all need someplace to call home and for those trying to live the American Dream, that means buying a house.  But with some recent changes in how real estate agents get paid, interest rates going up and home prices not really dropping, the market is a tumultuous place to do business. Randy Lenz is a real estate agent with decades of experience.  As of this year, he has seen it all. We're lucky enough to hear some insights as Randy shares his thoughts on the current market conditions influenced by changes in interest rates, the impactful rise of online platforms like Zillow, and the shifting dynamics in property listings and agent commissions. We'll explore how these factors are reshaping the way realtors operate and the implications for buyers and sellers in the Madison area and beyond. Randy also discusses the potential future changes, including the impact of artificial intelligence and other technological advancements on the real estate industry. Listen as Randy explains the best time of year to buy a house, the best time of year to sell a house and how to navigate the minefield that is real estate. Enjoy! Visit Randy at: https://www.realtor.com/realestateagents/56737bd67e54f701001dd179 Podcast Overview: 00:00 Excited about first house, interest rates fluctuate. 05:13 Realtors face challenges with keys and commissions. 06:27 Home buyers will struggle due to spending habits. 11:42 Realtors face real expenses for their work. 13:36 Housing prices soar, making it unattainable for many. 16:50 Flexible timing benefits buyers in our market. 20:23 Zillow dominates market, inaccuracies frustrating for buyers. 23:26 Realtors essential for immediate market response. 25:55 Realtors uncomfortable representing property they haven't seen. 30:08 Get broker's license, open real estate company. 34:55 Buyer's agents may undercut fees, risking inexperience. 37:41 Investors bought cheap, rehabbed, and sold for profit. 38:46 Market shift due to rejected low offers. 43:20 Income determines housing affordability, market correction expected. 47:07 20% belief, 20% disbelief, 60% indifferent. 50:44 Willingness to learn affects pay and prices. 52:21 Office lease abandoned due to lack of foot-traffic. Podcast Transcription: Randy Lenz [00:00:00]: Realtors aren't stupid. I had a house once that I listed across, from a graveyard. I mean, one of the Next said, quiet neighbors. James Kademan [00:00:08]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. We're locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. Downloadable free audio episodes of this podcast can be found at drawincustomerscom at the podcast link. Today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Randy Lenz. Randy is in real estate Randy he's gonna teach us all the things about all the changes in this crazy, crazy real estate world. Randy Lenz [00:00:37]: That is true. James Kademan [00:00:38]: Randy, how is it going today? Randy Lenz [00:00:40]: Not bad, James. James Kademan [00:00:40]: Good to Randy Lenz [00:00:41]: see you again, my friend. James Kademan [00:00:41]: How are you? You? I'm doing well. I am looking at the market. I look at the market every single day for what's for sale and all that kind of stuff, just dabbling in there, seeing what's going on. Randy Lenz [00:00:51]: Turn it off, James. It's gonna make you crazy right now. James Kademan [00:00:53]: You know, I just feel like maybe I'm just grossly underpaid or it's just a weird it's a weird dynamic. Right? Interest rates were way way low, then interest james rates went what I considered,

John Casmon - Casmon Capital On Being Aware of What Can Go Wrong: "I was making money. I grew my net worth. But at the end of the day, if I got fired from my job or if I got let go, I didn't have enough money to pay all of my bills." Get your money to work for you is great advice.  Real estate investing is a great way to do that.  Taking real estate investing a step further to making your investments truly passive is by utilizing the skills of those that pool investors together to let economies of scale get your money to work for you, without you having to find property, deal with tenants, make repairs and take those 24/7 calls. But how do you get started in passive real estate investing? John Casmon of Casmon Capital has shares his transformative journey from corporate America to becoming a beacon for busy entrepreneurs and business owners seeking to grow their wealth through real estate. His company bridges the gap for individuals who have the capital but not the time or expertise to manage investments, guiding them through passive investment opportunities in multifamily apartments. In this episode, John imparts his wisdom on scaling from smaller properties to significant multifamily deals, the intricacies of tax strategies, and the undeniable importance of having a detailed business plan. We'll explore the necessity of creating jobs and providing housing to benefit from tax breaks and hear why honesty in tax planning is crucial for long-term success. Listen as John explains some realistic strategies and real world examples of how you can make your money work for you. Enjoy! Visit John at: https://casmoncapital.com/ Podcast Overview: 08:27 Interest in making money sparks business partnership. 15:26 Managed finances, realized need for partnership opportunities. 16:03 Partnered, educated, scaled, and helped others financially. 22:15 Bonus depreciation allows accelerated tax savings for investors. 29:34 Utilize tax strategies to maximize and empower. 32:25 Expect expertise, frustration when not delivered. No trust. 39:26 Envision possibilities, seek mentorship, replicate successful strategies. 45:39 Challenging question about selling rental properties discussed. 47:55 Invest in Cincinnati area, analyze risks, attract renters. 53:12 Focus on results, match skills with needs. Podcast Transcription:  

Shannan Bogle - UPS Store Madison, Wisconsin On Variety Being the Spice of Life: "You never do the same thing twice. And that's what I loved about it was you were always doing something different whether somebody was walking in to have you shipping a book for them and then the next person was having you fax for them, and the next person had an Amazon return. So the variety of it is what caught me." Retail businesses still exist, and the UPS Store franchisees have been growing as people will always need to send something from one place to another. But Shannan Bogle of the UPS Store in Madison, Wisconsin lets us know that her store does so much more than shipping.  After decades in this business, she has an incredible amount to share. Shannan will also tap into the versatility required to manage a UPS store, from printing services to Amazon returns, shedding light on the highs and lows that come with balancing corporate mandates and the independence of franchise ownership. We'll explore the current business climate's pressures, the impact of the pandemic, and the shift to remote work, as well as the local community dynamics over her 26 years of operation. She delves into each facet of business ownership, retail business ownership, and the ways entrepreneurs can make moves to grow their business. Listen as Shannan explains not only her world, but a broader way of looking at business and finding the gold buried within every business. Enjoy! Visit Shannan at: https://locations.theupsstore.com/wi/madison/6666-odana-rd Podcast Overview:   Podcast Transcription: Shannan Bogle [00:00:00]: The one thing when I did buy it that I thought was funny was they did make me take out, life insurance policy that equaled the loan. Just because there's not enough product in my store James [00:00:11]: Oh. Shannan Bogle [00:00:11]: That would pay off the loan. And since it's all knowledge based, they're like if you get hit by a bus tomorrow, we can't recoup. James [00:00:22]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the a business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. We are locally owner of the UPS Store in Madison, Wisconsin. So, Shannon, how is it going today? Shannan Bogle [00:00:48]: Thank you. Very good. Thanks. James [00:00:51]: I'm excited to learn a few things from you. Thing 1 is how do you end up in the shipping business? Shannan Bogle [00:00:58]: Well, I started out my previous I was a bartender. James [00:01:03]: Oh. Seems like an easy transition. Right? Shannan Bogle [00:01:05]: No. Yeah. Bartending at night is a great job. Bartending during the day, not so much. James [00:01:12]: Oh, just from a financial point of view or just a really crazy drunks come in? Shannan Bogle [00:01:15]: No. You can't make any you don't make money during the day. Oh. Like you do at night. James [00:01:19]: Alright. Shannan Bogle [00:01:19]: So then, luckily I was working at, a bar on road. Mhmm. And a former work coworker came in and said, oh, go talk to John up at the UPS store on road. And I went and talked to him and started there and the rest is history. James [00:01:36]: You end up buying the business? Yeah. Wow. So you went from bartending? Shannan Bogle [00:01:39]: Out. Yep. And I started out on the counter. James [00:01:41]: Alright. Yeah. As an employee? Shannan Bogle [00:01:43]: Yeah. James [00:01:44]: Okay. Shannan Bogle [00:01:44]: Yep. And learned a lot from him and he was a great teacher and he made me a manager and then I expressed interest in wanting to buy it. So we had a contract and about 4 years into the contract, I felt comfortable enough with selling price. Somebody came in and he was shipping out, I'm a nosy person. He came in,

Derek Dombeck - The Generations of Wealth On the Challenging Relationship Employers Are Forced Into: "Speculation and appreciation doesn't pay your bills or keep your family fed. It looks beautiful on a spreadsheet ,on a balance sheet, until things go the other way." Real Estate Investing is a powerful tool for growing your wealth, as well as building a legacy for you and whomever you would like beyond your life. But some real estate investors just want to invest in real estate, and not deal with tenants, painting, plumbing issues, 3am phone calls and the paperwork that comes with owning property.  Some investors prefer to just invest their money, get a decent return and continue the process of having their money work for them. Derek sheds light on innovative solutions for storage unit businesses, his own path in the real estate industry, and the importance of understanding local markets and regulations. We'll explore the nuances of investing in places like Madison and Milwaukee, and uncover why he advises starting with single-family properties and values local real estate investor associations. With the launch of his Generations of Wealth podcast slated for March 14th, Derek is set to share his comprehensive approach to wealth, which extends far beyond financial gains. You'll learn about his commitment to helping Wisconsin locals navigate the real estate market without hidden costs or tricks. We'll also delve into the significance of effective communication and negotiation in closing deals, both in real estate and beyond, and the challenges posed by the evolving landscape of customer service in an AI-dominated world. Whether you're dealing in duplexes or many door count multifamily properties, this conversation boasts invaluable insights, including Derek's tales of overcoming adversity during the 2007 market crash and how building relationships can form the backbone of any successful business venture. Listen as Derek explains how to get into the real estate investing game without having to get dirty into the real estate investing game. Enjoy! Visit Derek at: https://thegenerationsofwealth.com/ Podcast Overview: 00:00 Passing on real estate wisdom to future generations. 06:25 Speculation doesn't pay bills, control business. 12:26 Ethical real estate broker helps sellers profit. 18:26 Structuring installment sale, focusing on mutual benefit. 21:57 Suggest talking to professional for personalized tax advice. 29:18 Reluctantly filed bankruptcy, stood by decisions. 33:40 Risky debt led to starting lending company. 37:33 Networking in person is more effective. 46:20 Shows, wealth.com, contact info, investing experience, Wisconsin. 49:31 Embracing diversity, solving problems, and staying humble. 55:14 Start small in real estate; seek local advice. 01:00:47 Authentic Business Adventures introduces successful business owners. Podcast Transcription: Derek Dombeck [00:00:00]: I have to call people. What if they answer? And and I said, okay. Let's look at it this way. Twist your mindset. If you know you have the skills to help somebody and you choose not to call them, you are by default harming that person. James [00:00:17]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumphant successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at draw in customers.com. We are locally underwritten by the Bank of Sun Prairie. Today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from Derek Dombek, the founder of Generations of Wealth Global. And today, we're chatting real estate, which is, I think, almost everyone knows you can make a couple bucks with. So, Derek, how is it going today? Derek Dombeck [00:00:50]: It's going really well, James. And, you can make a couple bucks. You can also lose a couple bucks if you do it wrong. James [00:00:56]:

Arta Wildeboer - Real Estate Professional in Canada On the Challenging Relationship Employers Are Forced Into: "People are very sensitive about their disabilities. They're very passionate about having their disabilities, validated having their disabilities. Kind of, just understood by their employers." Legal woes are almost an expectation in business.  From the ins and outs of often complex laws, paired with the general lack of legal knowledge, it can make an entrepreneurs head spin and their wallet empty. In this episode attorney Arta Wildeboer sheds light on the complexities of navigating labor disputes, the meticulous demands of the California judicial system, and the unforeseen consequences of well-intended legislation. As we navigated through the COVID-19 pandemic, which has seen a sharp rise in employment litigation, Arta discusses the nuances of the state's wage and hour laws and the judicial pushback against the overwhelming flood of small employment claims. With personal anecdotes and expert insights, Arta also highlights common pitfalls for small business owners—like the lack of a company handbook or inadequate employee procedures—and outlines practical steps for entrepreneurs to protect their ventures through handbooks, LLCs, and crucial insurance. From the grueling process of becoming an attorney, which included an eventful bar exam experience, to the significance of insurance and the role of attorneys and CPAs in establishing LLCs, Arta provides a comprehensive view of the legal landscape facing today's business owners. As we discuss how legal challenges overlap with the daily operational struggles, we uncover why managing employees effectively is more essential than ever and how employers and employees alike contribute to the complexities of the workplace. Listen as Arta offers a few tips on how to navigate the minefield of legal challenges that being a business owner forces you to tip-toe through. Enjoy! Visit Arta at: ArtaLawFirm.com Podcast Overview: 00:00 Transition from student to lawyer was challenging. 07:59 First fender bender experience led to frustration. 11:41 California bar exam: 3 prompts, 3 hours. 19:15 Challenges of dealing with employee disabilities in companies. 23:51 Proving wrongful termination can be complex. 27:22 Mandatory lunch breaks, penalties, and employee management. 36:45 Legal protection needed, talk to attorney, CPA. 39:08 California business environment: regulation, population draws. 47:45 Southern work culture emphasizes loyalty and gratitude. 52:57 California's strict wage laws lead to problems. 58:35 Law protects against discrimination in workplace bullying. 01:03:49 Best way to find an attorney? Referrals. 01:04:47 Choose a lawyer you're truly comfortable with. Podcast Transcription: Arta Wildeboer [00:00:00]: How how do you help a company or what what should a company be worried about? Well, you'd just be worried about anything you can get to for a long time. So James [00:00:07]: You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggles, stories, and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomerscom. We are locally and written by the Bank of Sun Prairie. And today, we're welcoming slash preparing to learn from ArtaWildeboer, an attorney that helps all kinds of people. And this is interesting because he's in California, which if anybody of you any of you have actually done business in any states, including California, I feel like California has gotta be one of the worst states to actually do business in. So, anyways, Arta, welcome to the show. Arta Wildeboer [00:00:46]: James, thank you so much. I appreciate it. Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be here. I'm a lawyer, so I love to talk and Yeah. About myself and and stuff like that. So, yeah,

Jordan Silvester - Real Estate Professional in Canada On the Often Chaotic Fluctuation of the Real Estate Market: "And when it first started happening, it takes a bit to get used to the idea that the market might go up instead of 2% a year, it might go percent up 2% a week. That's how insane the adjustment could be at certain times." Real estate investing is one of the smartest moves you can make.  But like most investments, it is not entirely failsafe and it certainly involves some level of risk. Jordan Silvester, a licensed Realtor and real estate investor, has lived through some good times and tumultuous times in real estate. With the easy charm of someone who knows their place in the world, Jordan often reflects on the irony of how natural borders and human perception can differ. Just as the sunny allure of Florida stretches down farther south than parts of Mexico, the story of Jordan Silvester is one that defies conventional expectations, reminding all that sometimes, the places we hail from hold secrets and stories as unpredictable and captivating as the people who dwell within them. For anyone involved or interested in the real estate market, this episode presents valuable insights into the dynamic nature of investing. Whether you're in Canada, the US, or anywhere else, understanding these concepts can help navigate the waters of property investment. Listen as Jordan explains the ins and outs of investing and taking steps to ensure that you protect yourself from taking too large of a risk, while still being able to play the game. Enjoy! Visit Jordan at Silvesters.ca Podcast Overview: 00:00 Navigating tough times, reaching out for guidance. 04:24 Financial downturn in retrospect; slower fall, fewer increases. 07:42 Advising clients on managing market fluctuations wisely. 09:48 Varied options for choosing mortgage lenders are available. 15:37 Loss of wealth due to decreasing investment value. 17:33 Unexpected risks led to tough family decisions. 21:26 Optimal exchange rate crucial for cross-border trade. 23:20 Strategic property cash flow and financing decisions. 27:43 Poker player considers risk and personal wealth. 31:03 Setting up unit for functional resale was challenging. 33:08 Learn humility, verify with others, avoid self-deception. 36:02 Adapting to economic changes through skill-building or hustling. 39:05 Considered vehicle lease options, chosen truck for benefits. 43:55 Resilience in face of past challenges, memories. 46:12 Property viewing essential for relational and investment. 49:58 Trust knowledgeable people, but trust your gut. 52:45 Business lessons learned from challenging personal situation. 55:52 Business program showcasing owner stories, sponsored content. Podcast Transcription: Jordan Silvester [00:00:00]: In real estate, if you think about that, like how quickly can you close something, renovate something, and flip something if you set your closing 33 months out because of the time that was a good idea because 3 months later, it was worth 10% more just because you waited. James [00:00:13]: Yep. You have found Authentic Business Adventures, the business program that brings you the struggle stories and triumph and successes of business owners across the land. Downloadable audio episodes can be found in the podcast link found at drawincustomers.com. Today, we are welcoming slash preparing to learn from Jordan Sylvester, the real estate guru, I believe, of Windsor, Ontario. Is that correct, Jordan? Jordan Silvester [00:00:36]: That is correct, my friend. James [00:00:38]: That makes you, Canuck. Right? Jordan Silvester [00:00:40]: Yes. The good old, far north. James [00:00:44]: That's, that's that's alright. It's a good thing. We're in or I'm in Wisconsin, which is, like, Canada junior. Jordan Silvester [00:00:49]: Actually, you're further north than we are. James [00:00:51]: So, yeah,