Best.Podcast.Ever.

When a personal life event negatively affects your business you can choose to let it defeat you or bounce back stronger than ever before. Traci Miller, a woman of resilience and empathy, shares a story of loss and how it affected both her personal life and professional career. We discuss new life mantras, the importance of your mental health, and how a sense of community can change your life.   Takeaways  Create a community of people or “tribe” to use as a sounding board, community, and support system. Entrepreneurs have their own language, they tend to understand each other. Having that support, even if it's the lack of judgment. Keep track of your victories. Journaling is a great way to remind yourself of your highs as well as your lows. Questions to live by: “Am I going to regret those words tomorrow?”, “Did I have a positive impact on those around me?”, and “Will they think of me in a way that they were better for having been part of my life?” Imagine that every conversation could be the last words you would share with someone. The criteria for a good leader is to have empathy and consideration for the other people there. “It's about the people. It's about their experience.”   Shout Outs Simon Sinek - https://simonsinek.com Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action Book by Simon Sinek - https://www.amazon.com/Start-Why-Leaders-Inspire-Everyone/dp/1591846447/ref=asc_df_1591846447/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312106851030&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=13388274615813059912&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9002277&hvtargid=pla-394932354867&psc=1   Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracimiller/ Company Website: https://www.color3.com   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=u8RB2o4CD1w

Growing your network and surrounding yourself with other entrepreneurs can help you get through the highs and the lows of starting your own business. Over time, Chas realized that creating a constructive and prosperous business culture starts from hiring the correct people that can work together effectively. He started using the Culture Index to identify changes that needed to be made in order to help his employees meet their maximum potential.    Takeaways: Find an experienced mentor who can assist you with the highs and lows of running your own business. Don't let other people's expectations of you affect your future. Only you are in control of where you go and what you do. The Entrepreneurs Organization has helped many aspiring entrepreneurs grow their business and feel a sense of belonging. There comes a time when business owners move from using personal intuition to making decisions based on scientific data. Learning how to communicate effectively with different types of personalities is important to the company culture. Understand how to get the right people in the right roles to increase ROI. Don't shy away from taking chances. Even if it flops, find a way to learn something and pick yourself back up. That, in itself, is a key skill.   Shout Outs: EOS Worldwide: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ Culture Index: https://www.cindexinc.com/   Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chas-moscarino-70298917/ Company Website: https://createmylandscape.com/   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KIeI0fV7mNc

“One big family!” There are benefits to pulling from a pool of people you know when you're first starting a new business venture. There's also a lot of risks! What happens when you hire a sibling or a friend of a friend, and your expectations of their capabilities don't line up? Mark Schneiders has accomplished the almost unimaginable - owning and managing a company where almost everyone is a first-degree connection or “once removed from the family”. Listen to this episode to hear his tips and tricks on this mastery! Takeaways  “There is an entrepreneurial paranoia, you're often taking risks… and we find ourselves pushing forward, doing what you have to win, to overcome, to adapt.”   As a business owner & leader, when you take ownership of problems and manage them the business takes off and breeds success. One of the best tools Mark employed is a culture Index. This helped him understand how his employees need to be motivated, led, talked to, and utilized.  Not every employee will think like you or work like you, and that's a good thing.  Biggest challenges about recruiting and working with family members: especially early on it can feel like you never get a break - 24/7 spouse, kids, parents, siblings, house! Define your process and set your expectations. When you don't, chaos can creep in, and when your employees are your close friends and family, it can lead to friction. Mark's advice: “Be honest... it's more than okay to express yourself. It's okay to say I don't have the answer and I need your help.” Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-schnieders-2739b2121/ Website: https://www.stridemobility.net Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://youtu.be/QUGbJg8ckCU

Alex talks to Christian Klein, owner of the digital marketing firm Company 119. As one of the first in their field, they experienced explosive growth and learned some hard lessons in the years that followed. Learn about CAP (communication, anticipation, preparation), the core elements of a successful emergency situation, and how it can help you evaluate the decisions facing your business in light of the question, “Is this a risk I'm willing to take?”  Takeaways  Look at decisions in light of “Is this a risk you are willing to take?” Marketing puts the best face on your organization to the outside world, but every company has problems. Fix the ego element in your company  CAP (Communication, Anticipation, Preparation): the core elements of a successful emergency situation Know these two things and your clients will trust you. Take ownership of your career and turn it into a craft. Links Twitter: https://twitter.com/company119?lang=en LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianklein/ Website: https://www.company119.com   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1-w7Xuv9vo

Bridget Thibeault went from working for an ad agency to going to culinary school full-time; baking and selling goods out of her small kitchen to opening Luna Bakery and Cafe in Cleveland Heights. With her marketing background and passion for baking, there were lines out the doors--but she wanted to become a better leader and create a company that was not only sustainable but could grow. With 10 years of hard work behind her and many lessons learned, Bridget shares how a shift in mindset helped her become profitable and create a company culture that draws and maintains the best employees.   Takeaways: Shift your mindset: Stop working IN your business and start working ON your business Increase your knowledge about running a business by taking advantage of opportunities like Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program Become a better leader: take a step back and think about what's the right way to grow Learn how to stay positive through the ups and downs as a business owner How to “mind the gap” between where you are now and your ideal self “I wouldn't say my story has an ending because it's an evolving process. I'm always going to be working on being a better leader and finding a better process.”   Shoutouts: Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses Program https://www.goldmansachs.com/citizenship/10000-small-businesses/US/about-the-program/ Entrepreneurs' Organization https://hub.eonetwork.org   Links: Twitter: https://twitter.com/LunaBakeryCafe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridget-cavanaugh-thibeault-7870b46/ Website: http://www.lunabakerycafe.com/   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l1-w7Xuv9vo

Hiring the right people for your organization is key to a successful company and its culture. This weeks' special guest, Terry Walkerly, joins us to discuss the importance of establishing a company's core values, personal values, and how to best implement them.   Takeaways  Avoid holding onto toxic employees longer than you should. If there is an issue, address it directly and take action. Try to also avoid letting stress and fear impact your decision to make role changes. Be selective with who you place your trust in. It is critical to have your company culture and values stem from the head(s) of the company. Establish your personal values and balance them with your company's values. See that your employees take pride in their personal lives so that they will take pride in your business and their work. Hire employees that closely match or reflect your company's core values. Create an interview guide that includes questions that play into your core values. Prepare in advance for an employee departure. Don't let losing a key employee inhibit your business growth. Connect with your employees for reviews more than once per year. Being transparent and honest will help strengthen the trust and pride in the workplace. Create a communication guide for both employees and your customers. It is not only important to articulate your company's core values to your employees but to also implement them. Remember that out of every crisis, can come beauty, growth, and evolution.   Shoutouts Roy Getz - EOS Implementor https://implementer.eosworldwide.com/us-implementers/listing/getz-roy   Links Twitter: https://twitter.com/FryerKing  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terry-walkerly-a080757/  Website: gofilta.com/locations/ohio/cleveland-cooking-oil-filtration-service     Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybqU7SiQg45xkqZ1SVfArw

Running a business may seem straightforward to some, but any seasoned veteran understands that the world around us is ever-changing. Changes in our social climate, economic climate, or a new disease can wreak havoc on a new company. In this week's episode, special guest Dan Charney takes us on his company's journey of weathering the storm and how moving from one crisis to the next strengthened his company and his leadership style.   Takeaways  The strength of a firm or company is not always seen in the good times but is clearly visible during the bad. Even CEOs can suffer from Imposter Syndrome. A more diverse client base is a great way to expand your business and can also help you weather multitudes of economic storms By “making mistakes faster” you can see what potential threats your business could incur and work around them. Properly research opportunities, focus on the good ones and don't throw every dollar at every idea. There is no “CEO Playbook” that helps us get to where we are or want to be. Competition is a healthy diving force for personal growth. Be flexible, always keep an eye on the economy, and learn to shuffle resources so that your business can survive a crisis.   Shoutouts Sheldon Myeroff - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sheldon-myeroff-7a90076/ Gene Roberts - Certified EOS Implementer®/ CTO - The Traction Lab   Links Twitter: Dan Charney (@DanC_DRI)  LinkedIn: Dan Charney - Solon, Ohio, United States | Professional Profile Website: Direct Recruiters Inc.: Executive Search Services From Direct Recruiters, Inc.   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - ‎CEO Confidential on Apple Podcasts Spotify - CEO Confidential | Podcast on Spotify Google Podcast - CEO Confidential Stitcher - CEO Confidential on Stitcher YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybqU7SiQg45xkqZ1SVfArw

Host, Alex Gertsburg, is interviewed by fellow podcaster, Casey Cheshire of Ringmaster Conversational Marketing and shares an important story of ego and how to not let it affect your personal and professional life. Alex dives into his personal growth on handling insecurities, staying vulnerable, and creating a successful work environment.   Takeaways:   When a professional relationship becomes toxic to your work environment, it is okay to sever ties. Mindfulness training and meditation have helped many professionals with stress and anxiety levels. Attitude is a choice. Gratitude is the enemy of anxiety and fear  If you are going to have partners, who you want to be empowered and considered equals, be transparent and communicate to build trust. Be flexible and listen to your peers. Try to remove yourself from thinking “what should have been?” “The best way to be a leader, partner, and advocate is by being totally vulnerable, open, and transparent.” - Alex Failure is healthy and a learning opportunity. Fun Fact: Alex was born in the country of Moldova   Shout-Outs: “The Laws of Lifetime Growth” - Dan Sullivan “Man's Search for Meaning” - Viktor E. Frankl Podcast — The Tim Ferriss Show “The Success Principles” - Jack Canfield Breathwrk - App “Getting to Yes” - Roger Fisher and William Ury   Links:   Website: www.gertsburglicata.com Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/alexgertsburg Facebook: www.facebook.com/alex.gertsburg   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5/ceo-confidential Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Google Podcast -https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/show/ceo-confidential YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCybqU7SiQg45xkqZ1SVfArw

Trust in your partners is essential to promote a healthy and productive work environment. Michael Cantor, Managing Director of Allegro Real Estate Brokers & Advisors, shares how the cultural fit for his company was failing due to conflicting core values between his partners. In this episode, Michael discusses the transition into a team-oriented business that values putting clients first.  Takeaways:   Ensure that your core values and purpose match with your partners'. This avoids conflicts of interest and allows goals to be achieved efficiently.  Corporate culture is key in professional services environments. It is important for employees to be excited to serve customers, and steer away from being money-oriented.  You need to have employees that are growing with you and developing to help clients. If your cultural values do not align with your partners, adjust your business to what is best for your company. Michael and his team used their power to remove two untrustworthy partners who were primarily focused on money and activity. Put clients first, do it right, be dependable, and always improve. These are the core values that Michael's company shares that brought the business to success.  Evaluate employees based on the core values of the company. This ensures that everyone in the company is heading in the same direction. Links:   Website: https://www.allegrorealty.com/  Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelcantor/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/michaellcantor Ways to Tune In   iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/ph5v8D19juM

As a business owner, it takes practice to put your ego aside and trust your employees to accomplish the tasks you delegate. Randy Carver, CEO of Carver Financial Services, discusses how he transitioned from a CEO focused business to a team business in three phases. Learn how to hire the best employees and develop them as leaders for the success of your business. Takeaways:   When it comes to financial service businesses, it is important to be service-based providers. When someone hires you, they are not hiring you for financial planning or investments, they are hiring you to pay for retirement, college, a trip, etc. The most important transformation a business can make is the transition from a CEO-based business to a team business.  If you make yourself as a leader less important, your business will grow You need to delegate some of the things you're doing. Look at your strengths as a business owner, and delegate the rest.  Hiring is not all about technical skills, it is about fitting in culturally with the rest of the team. Figure out if they have the same vision and mission as the company.  It is important to hire people who don't agree with everything you say or do because it makes you better as a company. At the same time, you are still the CEO and there has to be a line drawn in order to maintain control over your company.  Links:   Website: carverfinancialservices.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/randy-carver/  Ways to Tune In   iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/raG1rjBnNKA 

John DiJulius, a successful entrepreneur of John Robert's Spa and The Di-Julius Group, joins host Alex G to discuss creating a unique customer service revolution. After his workforce walked out on him due to substandard employees, John shifted his company's vision. Instead of compromising his business culture for sales, he established a strict hiring system that brought him passionate and dedicated workers.   Takeaways: Ensure that the employees that you hire have the same vision for your company. You need passionate workers that are dedicated to your vision as an entrepreneur Do not compromise your business goals and values for sales. This puts your company in a position of inevitable failure. Good customer service is essential. John made the mistake of hiring employees that lacked effective communication skills, making his company suffer. Not investing in good customer service will destroy your company and its financials. Have a strict hiring process. If you make the mistake of hiring an employee with poor performance, do not keep them in your company. Avoid compromising your company culture for employees that are not qualified for the position. The entrepreneur should be the least valuable short-term asset a company has. If the business owner is the most valuable asset, then they are the company and therefore have no company.   Links: Website: https://thedijuliusgroup.com/  Twitter: https://twitter.com/johndijulius  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dijulius/  Book: The Relationship Economy Book: The Best Customer Service Quotes ever said Book: The Customer Service Revolution Book: What's the Secret? Book: Secret Service   Ways to Tune In: Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fb... Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441b... Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/agen... YouTube -full video - https://youtu.be/SI9AEOlrIP0

It can be difficult to manage working both in the business and on the business. Bob Coppedge, CEO at Symplex IT, walks us through how he transitioned to working entirely within his business and its operations, to working on the business by developing a system to plan for the future. He discusses the importance of failure as a learning lesson, and optimizing your time and money by delegating the things you do poorly. Takeaways:   It is important to know from day one that scaling is important. Only working in the business will take up a lot of time and limit a company's ability to scale. Failure has a bad reputation. In reality, failure is vital because it promotes learning and growth. If you don't fail, then where is the risk? You have to have an understanding of what your employees can do better than you. Slice things off your plate by delegating the things that you do poorly to your employees. In your business, there is what you envision and what actually happens. You have to ensure that there is a connection between the two.  Transform your limitations into assets. Bob was able to use Asperger's Syndrome to his advantage in his career.  Having a strategic planning system allows your company to have a framework that puts everyone on the same page. It is important to have both visionaries and integrators in your business. Links:   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rlcoppedge/  Website: www.symplex-it.com   A CEO's Guide to Information Technology: https://www.amazon.com/CEOs-Survival-Guide-Information-Technology/dp/069205538X  I Don't Want Your Job: https://www.amazon.com/Dont-Want-Your-Job-Co-Managed/dp/1733004815  Ways to Tune In:   Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5 Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441bbjLNCYKKcC5d0fl Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/agencies-that-build/ceo-confidential YouTube - Full video - https://youtu.be/_stpBZo-rY0

Learning how to become aligned within a partnership is difficult. Louis Licata, Co-Manager of Gertsberg Licata, discusses how he developed as a partner and an individual after being betrayed by his co-founders in their start-up law firm. Louis reminds us to share the same core business values as and keep your ego in check when working with other partners. Takeaways:   Treat your business partners like partners; respect them as equals. Have similar core business values and long-term visions as your business partners in order to have alignment. Without alignment between partners, behavior is misread and trust issues are formed. You may have many skills, but you may not be utilizing them properly in your business. Once you become aware of these skills, you can work on developing as a business person.  Look at yourself and your failures as a partner in order to grow; keep your ego in check, and admit when you're wrong. Confirmation bias can work against you, and can block you from big opportunities. You do not need partners; you are capable of starting a business as a sole proprietor.  Betrayal in a career is not always personal, it's just business. Links:   Gertsburg Licata Website: https://www.gertsburglicata.com/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/louislicata/  Ways to Tune In:   Amazon Music - https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/1fba44a7-752b-4ac0-a0a4-11ab25506ed5 Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441bbjLNCYKKcC5d0fl Google Podcast - https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuY2VvY29uZmlkZW50aWFsLm5ldC9mZWVkLnhtbA Stitcher - https://www.stitcher.com/podcast/agencies-that-build/ceo-confidential YouTube - Full video - https://youtu.be/JMf3ftGR0dY

The habits instilled by over 20 years of wrestling training have prepared Aaron Grossman, CEO of TalentLaunch and Alliance Solutions Group, for the physical and mental challenges of entrepreneurship. Starting and growing a business isn't for the faint of heart, and knowing how and when to take a risk can pay off with big rewards. Aaron shares his unique experiences with host Alex G on this special episode of CEO Confidential.     Takeaways  As an entrepreneur you have to be confident in being able to take risks, you know that not all of the risks are going to create wins. “Failures are a great opportunity to learn if you are reflecting in the correct way and you're allowing the risk to pay off… a risk can also pay off if they don't go the right way because you can still grow.” - Aaron Grossman On adversity Aaron says, “I treat every day like it's a wrestling match or practice, and how much am I going to put in and how much do I want to get better every day.” Let fear help you, don't let it sit in the driver's seat, but it can be a useful tool Who's helping you? You can't be chief technology officer, chief financial officer - you can't be it all! Get the right help Know your strengths as an entrepreneur, don't let ego get in the way Say no to good things! If it's hard to let go of potential opportunities, have people on your team or an advisory board that can check you to your goals/vision   Shoutouts Episode 138 : My Colossal Failure - Aaron Grossman https://www.ceoconfidential.net/e/ep-138-my-colossal-failure-meet-aaron-grossman/ Episode 122: Best.Podcast.Ever - Aaron Grossman https://www.ceoconfidential.net/e/ep-122-%e2%80%93-talent-search-%e2%80%93-meet-aaron-grossman-plus-an-inspirational-message-from-alex-s-corona-bunker/   Links Twitter: https://twitter.com/alliancestaff LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronsgrossman/ Website: https://mytalentlaunch.com/ & https://alliancesolutionsgrp.com/   Ways to Tune In: Apple Podcast - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441bbjLNCYKKcC5d0fl Youtube full video - https://youtu.be/rheYreWvUg8    

What does it mean to be a humble leader? Adam Kaufman, Founder of Up2 Foundation, shares his story of how he leaned on his support network and began his journey to becoming a more empathetic and humble leader.   Takeaways  Having a support network, whether you are a CEO or not, is invaluable. Seek out and lean on peers, mentors, and family if you are in need of guidance. “We are all going to face curves in the road. It is up to us to know how we're going to navigate them.” ~Adam A key component of humility is forgiveness. In order to be forgiven, you need to first learn to forgive others. Take steps towards cultivating who you want yourself to be. Meditation, acts of kindness, or keeping a momento close help slow down automatic thinking.   Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-kaufman-62073453/ Company: https://www.up2foundation.org   Ways to Tune In iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441bbjLNCYKKcC5d0fl Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/uimqUDYkEP8

When the pandemic hit, the world went into disarray. Phil Rankin, President of Even Mix™ & Special Metal Stamping, shares his story of how he seized an opportunity that changed his company. Even Mix™ is a patented 3D mixing technology. They have used aerospace engineering techniques to design pump technology into their variable pitch blades, bringing true mixing technology to in-drum liquids.     Takeaways  Be attentive to current events. Capitalize on challenges that are in high demand by pivoting your marketing strategy to target that market. When shifting into a new market, be mindful of scalability. How can the company grow sustainably? What structures need to be in place to ensure growth? Listen to the customer. Better pricing and new technologies can only go so far if the product is not applicable to the customer's needs. Trust your gut as a business owner. We are approached daily with new opportunities. Do not be afraid to take calculated risks. Getting the right mix of resources committed to the return on investment expected is key to a great cost analysis.    Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philerankin/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/philerankin Company: https://specialmetalstamping.com Company: https://evenmix.com   Ways to Tune In iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/5an441bbjLNCYKKcC5d0fl Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/8qhyYIzf_nE

We all are faced with stressful situations at one point or another. It is our reactions and next steps that help mold the future of our company and yourself. Ben Bebenroth, Chef/Owner of Spice Kitchen + Bar, Spice Catering Co., and Spice Acres Farm, shares his story of how to pivot a highly stressful situation into an opportunity for personal and company growth. Spice Hospitality Group offers local food focused restaurants, catering, and foraging from their Spice Acres Farm. They strive to change how people connect with food through sustainable agriculture.   Takeaways  It's ok to be vulnerable and let yourself feel your emotions. When you encounter a stressful situation, be mindful and take a step back before tackling the issue. It is important to develop a sense of self awareness while encountering stressful situations. How are your actions or reactions affecting your team? Behind every emotion distress is fear. It is what drives emotional outbursts, reactions, and responses. What is your modality of operating? Are you navigating situations through love or fear? “There is no miracle hire that is going to save a company. If you are managing and leading from fear, it's gonna crumble. You cannot grow a business and attract positive people and energy with that negative wavelength.” ~Ben “The vulnerable leader enables and encourages his entire team to be equally vulnerable.” ~Ben It is one thing to be vulnerable, but it's another thing to be able to filter a moment and show up for someone else. Support your team by checking in with them on a personal level.   Links LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-bebenroth-14757832/ Instagram: @chefbenbebenroth Website: https://www.spiceheadquarters.com Company Instagram: @spiceheadquarters Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/spicekandb?lang=en   Ways to Tune In iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/tv-KdzMPblo

Sticking to your company values is crucial to building a brand and protecting the integrity of your product or service. Leslie Zinn, Owner of Arden’s Garden, shares her story on owning her values through the thick and thin of it.   Takeaways  “The biggest lesson learned is don’t ever give up. You have got to keep pushing forward.” ~Leslie Consistently doing the right thing and not cutting corners pays off in the long run. Have well defined core values within your organization. Stay true to your company's core values, especially when making big decisions for your product or service. “Do the right thing just because it’s the right thing. For no other reason. You got that path and you follow it. It makes life so much easier.” ~Leslie   Links Twitter: https://twitter.com/ardensfresh LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leslie-zinn-729937b/ Website: https://www.ardensgarden.com Company Twitter: https://twitter.com/ardensgardenatl/   Ways to Tune In iTunes - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ceo-confidential/id1197044116 Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/2v6qyhzcD7Mk2yqhyobnRy Pod Chaser - https://www.podchaser.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-429926 Listen Notes - https://www.listennotes.com/podcasts/ceo-confidential-nelly-g-5Ia1-WzKHnF/ YouTube - https://youtu.be/wxbTjPevycY

Looking to hire your next employee? How do you deal with picking the WAY wrong employee? Better yet, how do you pick the right candidate? Lee Stacey, CEO & President at McGowan Allied Specialty Insurance has some insight and a story you do not want to miss on this episode of CEO Confidential. Takeaways  Do your due diligence! Create a candidate checklist and interview process, then stick to it Consult counsel (legal or human resources) on how to deal with tricky employee situations Check references! Ask, “can you comment on this candidate's behavior in the workplace?” Sometimes brief answers are a red flag  When checking a reference, if a previous employer will only confirm dates of employment, that could be an indication to dig deeper and call another reference Do background checks, reference checks and even a culture index can be helpful Hire the right people for the right seats and your business will run as smoothly as possible Links Lee Stacey’s Best Podcast Ever Episode 107: https://www.ceoconfidential.net/e/ep-107-servant-leadership-meet-lee-stacey/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/LeeMStacey LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-stacey-9794542/ Website: https://mcgowanallied.com/ Youtube: https://youtu.be/zB_CZGKg3pg

Alex sits down with nationally acclaimed speaker, financial planner, author, coach, entrepreneur and CEO, Jason Smith, to discuss how a diagnosis of a complex heart condition at the age of 29 opened Jason’s eyes and led him from a revenue-generator to the creator and CEO of multiple, self-managing companies. Notes: Jason’s many hats How one company branched out into five Following in his father’s footsteps - whether he wanted to or not How a sudden heart condition diagnosis at 29 years old opened his eyes to what was really important Going from revenue maker to the creator of self-managing companies What it was like to “die” on the operating table Having to say your goodbyes Raising kids with blue-collar values in a white-collar world The 80/20 Rule and building the right team with the right processes Jason’s unique ability Personal development and “thinking about your thinking” Lightning Round Links: Jason’s LinkedInThe JL Smith Group Strategic Coach“The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else In Business” by Patrick M. Lencioni“Getting Naked: A Business Fable About Shedding The Three Fears That Sabotage Client Loyalty” by Patrick M. Lencioni “Principles: Life and Work” by Ray Dalio  

In this freewheeling episode, Alex goes toe-to-toe with CEO of Witz Education, Greg Witz and together they solve all of our political problems, teach us how to be our best selves in business and in life, help us have better romantic relationships, and so much more. You definitely don’t want to miss out on this one! Notes A South African Canadian’s perspective on the current state of US politics A US citizen’s perspective on Canada  Psychological warfare, the media, and the different lenses we use to view politics and the world Greg’s journey from dropout to successful author, podcaster, and entrepreneur How common threads transform hierarchies into circular communities The thing that prevents people from being their best selves Managing stress and dealing with unexpressed emotions The 3 Principles of Emotional Intelligence The step after accepting who you are The S.T.O.P Concept How to have better romantic relationships State, story, strategy, and the secret sauce to getting unstuck The power of shifting your mindset and how to actually do it Lightning Round Links   Alex’s interview on Greg’s podcastEp 131 – Solving All the World’s Problems – Meet Council President Paul Marnecheck (again)Join the betterHuman Greg’s LinkedInWitz Education“Lead, Follow or Get Out of the Way: The Ultimate Guide to Leadership in the New World of Business” by Greg WitzThe Ultimate Relationship GuideImago Relationships Worldwide“It Takes What It Takes: How to Think Neutrally and Gain Control of Your Life” by Trevor Moawad and Andy Staples“Brain Rules” by John Medina “The BFG” by Roald Dahl “The 4-Hour Workweek” by Tim Ferriss“Why We Sleep: Unlocking the Power of Sleep and Dreams” by Matthew Walker, Ph.D.

In this edition of My Colossal Failure, Alex sits down with Gary Klaben, president of Coyle Financial to discuss how determination and perseverance led Gary to go from a failing insurance agent to the owner and president of a highly successful wealth/asset management and financial counsel company. Links: Coyle Financial: https://www.coylefinancial.com/ Strategic Coach: https://www.strategiccoach.com/ Gary’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-klaben-9aa199/ Ep 58 – A Business Mindset – Meet Gary Klaben: https://www.thebestpodcastever.com/ep58-gary-klaben/

On this edition of the My Colossal Failure mini-series, Alex and Mike Ferrante, associate broker for Century 21 HomeStar and team leader of the 21 Mike Team, discuss how Mike’s youthful stubbornness kept him in a failing painting business for 15 years before he realized it was finally time to throw in the towel. Mike’s Page on 21 Century HomeStar21 Mike TeamMike’s LinkedInEp 90 – How to Rise to the Top and Stay There – Meet Mike Ferrante

On this episode of the “My Colossal Failure” mini-series, Alex talks with Traci Miller, president of Color 3 Embroidery, a wholesale embroidery and screen-print business about the importance of resilience, and how she rebuilt her life and her business after experiencing considerable tragedy. Links: Color 3 Embroidery Traci’s LinkedIn Simon Sinek Other Colossal Failures

On this episode of a new mini-series called, “My Colossal Failure” Alex sits down with Andrew Spott, CEO of VividFront, a strategic Digital Marketing, Web Design & Web Development Agency to discuss not only how his colossal failure forced him to fire people and give away his shares in his business, but also how that failure led to VividFront. Links:Andrew’s LinkedInVividFront“Traction: Get a Grip on Your Business” by Gino Wickman EOS

In the first episode of a new mini-series called, “My Colossal Failure” Alex sits down with Aaron Grossman, CEO of TalentLaunch, a $130 million staffing and talent company to discuss how his ego led to not one but two colossal failures and how he had to learn to put his ego aside to become a better businessman and entrepreneur. LinksEp 122 – Talent Search – Meet Aaron Grossman, plus an inspirational message from Alex’s Corona BunkerAaron’s LinkedInTalentLaunchAbleEntrepreneur’s Organization (EO)Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS)

Alex has a chat with CEO of emaginit Daniel Moneypenny, aka the guy who knows a guy, about branding, marketing, networking, and business development. Daniel also shares a bit of his journey which includes serving in the Army, becoming a male model, attempting to steal something from Phil Knight, and more. As Alex says, “to know Danny is to be in awe of him.” We think you’ll agree. Notes How Alex and Daniel met The secret to Daniel’s energy Daniel describes his childhood Moving to California and becoming a Forest Fighter Enlisting in the Army and joining the US Prix Leclerc Team Having a ton of interesting jobs including becoming a make model, running antique shops, and starting a fitness shoe store College and starting emaginit Naming, branding, and building his reputation Shifting from branding to networking and business development Big failures and big rebounds Creating the correct work environment Lightning Round Links Emaginit“The Laws of Nature”  by Robert Greene “Shoe Dog: A Memoir by the Creator of Nike” by Phil Knight “Make Your Bed: Little Things That Can Change Your Life...And Maybe the World” by Admiral William H. McRaven "Sea Stories: My Life in Special Operations" by Admiral William H. McRaven “A Distant Mirror: The Calamitous 14th Century” by Barbara W. Tuchman

Alex and returning co-host Molly Gebler welcome back superintendents Nancy Santilli and Bob Hunt of Kenston and Chagrin Falls, who update us on this challenging semester and what’s in store for the next one (so far) in light of the pandemic. Notes  Introductions and personal updates Current virtual learning status in each district Managing staff in and outside of the classroom Which is better? Letting every district make decisions or having everyone do the same thing. “If I knew then what I know now…” Handling the stress personally Highs and lows from this semester Teachers’ concerns Managing staff stress Lightning round Links Chagrin Falls Exempted Village SchoolsKenston SchoolsChagrin Valley Chamber of Commerce“Schools and Child Care: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)” – Minnesota Department of EducationEp 34 – School House Rock – Meet Nancy SantilliEp 45 – Head of the Class – Reconnect with Bob Hunt and Nancy SantilliEp 77 – Bob Hunt and Nancy Santilli: Solving Problems Students Care About MostEp 109 – Hunt and Santilli in the Hot SeatsEp 124 – Schooling During The Pandemic – A Special Q&A Session with Superintendents Nancy Santilli and Bob HuntLemon Falls Cafe/Marketplace“The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz” by Erik LarsonGet Molly’s Books!

Alex welcomes the COO of North Coast Auto Mall, Oleg Kislyansky onto the show to talk about vision, failure, growth, going from a non-data driven organization to a data-driven one, and much more. Buckle up and get ready for one inspiring and entertaining ride! Notes: Crazy ways to say hello and epiphanies of a new father  Oleg’s curiosity, hyperfocus, how he used that to better his business during COVID  “Punching above your weight” and moving up within the auto industry Impostor syndrome and underestimating yourself vs other people underestimating you Oleg’s “secret sauce” for a good business The importance of getting employees to follow your vision and how to get them to do that The format of Oleg’s sales meetings The format of Alex’s meetings Oleg’s failures and how he’s learned from them  Going from a non-data driven organization to a data-driven organization  Alex’s book recommendations Links: North Coast Auto Mall: https://www.ncautoauction.com/ Alex’s Insider Fix: https://gertsburglaw.com/blog/category/alexs-insider-fix/ CORONAVIRUS LEGAL SURVIVAL GUIDE: https://mailchi.mp/gertsburglaw.com/survivalguide Cover My Six: https://covermysix.com/ “TRACTION: GET A GRIP ON YOUR BUSINESS” by Gino Wickman: https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-book “MEASURE WHAT MATTERS” by John Doerr: https://www.whatmatters.com/the-book/ “THE 4-HOUR WORKWEEK” Series by Tim Ferriss: https://tim.blog/tim-ferriss-books/ “THE GOAL: A PROCESS OF ONGOING IMPROVEMENT” by Eliyahu M. Goldratt: https://www.amazon.com/Goal-Process-Ongoing-Improvement/dp/0884271951 “THE 48 LAWS OF POWER” and “THE LAWS OF HUMAN NATURE” by John Greene: https://powerseductionandwar.com/books/ “THE BLUE ZONES” by Dan Buettner: https://www.thebluezonesstore.com "TITAN” by Ron Chernow: https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/26804/titan-by-ron-chernow/  

Alex and Chas mow through what led him to go from rebellious teenager to owner of one of the largest landscaping businesses in Northeast Ohio, how to build the right team, learning to properly communicate with your employees, and much more. Notes  Alex’s childhood landscaping experiences and Chas’s journey Crises he has faced while running the same business for over 20 years How a big decision and a semester at sea transformed him into a world-class entrepreneur Discovering EO and the importance of having a sense of belonging How Chas discovered Culture Index and what led him to become a CI advisor Using data to put the right butts in the right seats The importance of learning how to properly communicate with your employees Reducing turnover How COVID has affected his businesses And much more… Links Moscarino Landscape and Design: https://createmylandscape.com/ Culture Index: https://www.cindexinc.com/Chas’ Website: https://chasmoscarino.com/Chas’ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chas-moscarino-70298917/ EOS: https://www.eosworldwide.com/ Alex’s Insider Fix: https://www.gertsburglaw.com/blog/ Ep 122 – Talent Search – Meet Aaron Grossman: http://www.thebestpodcastever.com/http-www-thebestpodcastever-com-ep-122-talent-search-meet-aaron-grossman/ Ep 130 – From Incremental to Exponential – Meet Gene Roberts: http://www.thebestpodcastever.com/ep-130-from-incremental-to-exponential-meet-gene-roberts/

Alex invites Tom Jackson, current candidate for the Ohio State Senate to come on the show and explain to us why we should vote for him. They discuss what made him decide to run, the problem of government corruption, and how his plans to challenge the status quo will change the lives of Ohio’s residents for the better.  Notes: Kids keeping you up all night and why on earth someone would voluntarily choose to run 100 miles  Comparing silent training to meditation and the flow state Tom’s bio and how he lost his accent How he went from the insurance business to politics and what led him to run for the Ohio State Senate Why should we vote for him? Discussing the issues of inequality, education, and women’s reproductive rights Why not Matt Dolan? What will Tom Jackson do to challenge the status quo? Is Tom Jackson anti-business? The problem with politics today House Bill 6 and the corruption in Columbus Running against a big name Campaigning in the age of social media Systemic vs. institutional racism Links:  Tom Jackson for OhioTom’s FacebookTom’s TwitterRegister to Vote in OhioHouse Bill 6Article about what happened with House Bill 6 Sign up for Alex’s “Insider Fix”CORONAVIRUS LEGAL SURVIVAL GUIDE

Alex interrogates criminal defense attorney Ashley Jones and together they examine the ins and outs of criminal law, starting your own law firm, the challenges facing small business owners, cults, and much more. Notes: Turning phones on silent, newbie court fails, and getting chastised by judges The case Ashley is the most proud of and the one that still haunts her Representing people Ashley thinks may be guilty Difficult cases and clients Deal emotionally with an unfair criminal justice system Why Ashley started her own firm and the challenges of a business owner Recognizing burnout, learning your limits, and how to be ruthless with your time “A-ha” moments in business ownership The importance of surrounding yourself with like-minded business owners Links: Ashley Jones LawAlex’s Insider FixJoin the Gertsburg Lawfirm

In this freewheeling conversation, Alex and Paul tackle the world’s problems, from pandemics to elections to media bias. They discuss how different businesses, sectors and industries have reacted and adapted to COVID, and how local government helps or hurts the process, and they both make predictions on how it will all play out. Notes: ·  Paul’s recent promotion and the importance of calling people by their proper title ·  Hot button issues in the City of North Royalton ·  How businesses and industries both big and small have reacted and adapted to COVID ·  How COVID has affected the arts, the artists, production, tech, and related industries as well ·  Predictions on how this will all play out ·  If Alex was a dictator… ·  The loss of credibility in the media ·  Extinction level events and evolution ·  Traveling through history ·  Exercising emotional intelligence ·  Fixing election issues Links: Ep 15 – Meet Paul MarnecheckCity of North RoyaltonGreater Cleveland PartnershipEp 123 – How Bow Ties can Save the World – Meet John ChmuraH-Bomb TiesAfter Truth: Disinformation and the Cost of Fake NewsPlease God Save Us by Derek Hess & Kent Smith Titan: The Life of John D. Rockefeller, Sr by Ron Chernow Chris Ronayne’s Twitter AccountIndomitable Will: LBJ in the Presidency by Mark Updegrove The Passage of Power by Robert A. Caro Special Episode – Truth to Power – Meet Ian FriedmanOhio Association of FoodbanksAmerican Red Cross’s Donate Blood Page

Join Alex and Traction Lab founder, Gene Roberts as they dive deeply into the entrepreneurial mindset to explore how to go from incremental to exponential. They also discuss learning how to let go and delegate, the common frustrations of entrepreneurs and how to get rid of them, accountability hacks, and so much more. Notes Gene’s journey from entrepreneur to EOS Implementer How does failure lead to credibility? The importance of bringing experience, not advice to the table Why you should spend more time with entrepreneurs The common frustrations of entrepreneurs and how to get rid of them The key components to every business, which one entrepreneurs have the most issues with, and how to fix it Gene’s accountability hack Update on Believe in Dreams Links The Traction LabBelieve in Dreams Ep 69 – How a Business Operates – Meet Ron KaminskiEOS Self-Implementers Unite!EOS WorldwideTraction by Gino Wickman Get a Grip by Gino Wickman and Mike Paton The E-Myth Series by Michael Gerber Good to Great by Jim Collins Drive by Daniel Pink

Alex catches up with returning guest John DiJulius, five-time author, customer service ninja, head of The DiJulius Group, John Robert’s Spa and Believe In Dreams, and modern day renaissance man. They discuss the importance of empathy, understanding both customer and employee needs, inspiration and effective communication with your team, positive energy, and so much more. This episode is full of powerful tips, philosophy, and humor. Notes Recent wins CX Executive Academy, EO, and the importance of peer discussion and coaching Why and how to be empathic and understanding of both your customers’ and employees’ needs How to effectively communicate with employees How re-opening has gone with John Robert’s and what they are doing to meet demand That one time John got arrested… Creative positive energy moments Leadership, creativity, and flow John’s hacks to shift negative to positive energy Why you should binge learning Updates on Believe in Dreams Links The DiJulius GroupJohn Robert’s SpaBelieve in DreamsThe Customer Service Revolution by John DiJuliusEntrepreneurs’ OrganizationMoonshots podcastThe Tim Ferriss ShowShoe Dog by Phil KnightThe Splendid and the Vile by Erik LarsonMy Customer Experience Trainer

Alex gets moving with certified personal trainer, group fitness instructor, nutritional and wellness consultant, founder, and co-founder of multiple businesses including Kijia and the Brain Ops Group, Ali Hively. They discuss how achieving small wins through having the right mentality, building a strong foundation, and proper stress management techniques can build to much greater wins later on. This episode is as jampacked as your favorite (or least favorite depending on how you look at it) HIIT workout. You don’t want to miss it!  Notes: Alex asks selfish personal questions about getting back into regular fitness habits during the quarantine and Ali gives some quarantine fitness tips How to get over not wanting to answer to others  How the “how much do you want it” mindset may be harmful and what to do to change it How Ali connects with her clients and how her framework helps them decide what works for them while identifying their goals and creating solid foundations Ali’s #1 hack for getting immediate results How quarantine has changed Ali’s business  Ali’s tips for managing stress and the importance of developing good stress management techniques The importance of achieving “small wins” on your journey to success Ali’s entrepreneurial journey and how she overcame failures both personally and professionally Links: Kijia - Your Path to Feeling Great Brain Ops Group Mission Beautiful Brain Ali’s Instagram Account Evernote You Are a Badass®: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero  

What are we really disagreeing about? A special message from Alex Gertsburg. https://youtu.be/ZIFcULcvX_w

After an introduction about protests, riots and police brutality, Alex grills Brandon Chrostowski, President and Founder of EDWINS Leadership & Restaurant Institute, to find out how he managed to achieve 52% revenue growth during these trying times. They also discuss all the new things happening at EDWINS, how COVID-19 has disproportionately affected poorer communities, how to increase minority management and presence in fine dining restaurants, what we can do to help, and much more. https://youtu.be/lw1K3GsmWMM   Notes Recent personal and professional wins How Brandon's purpose-driven mission generated 52% revenue growth during the pandemic Updates on what's going on at EDWINS    How COVID-19 has affected his students/employees The power and value of strong support systems and promoting good self-esteem How to increase minority management and presence in fine dining restaurants  What the community can do to help and how a special spoon represents the importance of details and “leveling the playing field” Speaking, consulting, and moving his model to other industries How to get political support Overcoming fear and stigma Links Ep 46 – Cooking up a Better Future – Meet Brandon ChrostowskEDWINS Leadership & Restaurant InstituteDespite the terrible coronavirus price paid by marginalized communities of color, nothing will change if we do not make it change: Brandon E. Chrostowski Op-Ed: Heeding the Humanity of Former Prisoners

After taking part in the protests in Chagrin Falls, Alex sits down with attorney and president of the Cleveland Bar Association, Ian Friedman to discuss the George Floyd murder, the resulting protests, riots, and the changes that need to happen within the criminal justice system. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LsoJDsoR_X8 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qIDSANIEv-4 Notes Introducing Ian and what led him to give a speech during one of the protests in Cleveland What makes George Floyd’s case and the events surrounding it different from all of the others Ian and Alex discuss what should vs. what will happen moving forward What has the Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association done in the past and what is it planning to do to for criminal justice reform The difficulty of breaking through the “blue wall” Protesting vs. Rioting, what really happened in Cleveland, and how to encourage younger people to let their voices be heard. Links Friedman & Nemecek, LLCCleveland Metropolitan Bar AssociationThe Future State of Justice - Cleveland Metropolitan Bar Association’s page outlining their involvement with the reform of the Justice Center. (Lots of great articles, updates, etc on this page) Black Lives Matter Cleveland Facebook Page

What do swimming with horses, making fresh pasta, and recycling computers have in common? Tune in as Alex chats with entrepreneur and life coach Mellissa Hathaway and find out! They cover escaping from difficult relationships, imposter syndrome, the power of being an underdog, learning how to quiet negative inner voices, and so much more.   Notes Personal and professional wins Melissa shares how she and her young son escaped an abusive relationship and what it’s like to start over in your forties How she went from driving trucks to selling fresh pasta, to becoming a partner in the computer recycling business How swimming with horses changed her life Dealing with impostor syndrome and the power of being an underdog Tony Robbins, quieting the negative voices, meditation, Mindvalley, and the importance of creative outlets Links Melissa’s Website Melissa’s Facebook page Melissa’s Instagram Alex’s Guest Interview on “The Daily Bread Podcast” Mindvalley’s “6-Phase Meditation Quest - Learn How To Meditate in Just A Few Minutes A Day” Jen Jones Donatelli National Domestic Violence Hotline Legal Aid Society of Cleveland’s Domestic Violence Resources Cuyahoga County Children and Family Services’ Domestic Violence Resources Men are from Mars, Women are from Venus: A practical guide for improving communication & getting what you want in your relationships by John Gray The Artist’s Way: A Spiritual Path to Higher Creativity by Julia Cameron Official List of Tony Robbins’ books

Alex and returning co-host, Molly Gebler welcome back superintendents Nancy Santilli and Bob Hunt of Kenston Schools and Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools, who take questions submitted on social media regarding schooling during the COVID-19 pandemic; including application of snow days, what next year will look like, how end-of-year traditions are shaping up, summer school and extended year services, and much more. https://youtu.be/hd4kB63XGF0 Notes Welcome back Molly, Nancy, and Bob Gratitude and wins Q&A session with questions submitted on social media Molly’s new Lightning Round Questions Links Chagrin Falls Exempted Village Schools: Kenston Schools Chagrin Valley Chamber of Commerce “Schools and Child Care: Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19)” - Minnesota Department of Education Ep 34 – School House Rock – Meet Nancy Santilli Ep 45 – Head of the Class – Reconnect with Bob Hunt and Nancy Santilli: Ep 77 – Bob Hunt and Nancy Santilli: Solving Problems Students Care About Most Ep 109 – Hunt and Santilli in the Hot Seats Hungry Bee Lemon Falls Cafe/Marketplace Burntwood Tavern Hunan by the Falls Yours Truly

Alex has a wide-ranging conversation with CTO and Chief Data Scientist of Chmura Economics & Analytics and Co-Founder of H-Bomb Ties, John Chmura which covers topics such as data science and collection in light of the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal, Tiger King and the Wild Wonderful Whites of West Virginia, how John’s son Harrison inspired the creation of H-Bomb Ties, and much more. This episode is as inspirational as it is informational. You don’t want to miss out. https://youtu.be/Cq01XbyScmE Notes John’s background in data science and what it exactly it means to be a data scientist Alex and John’s takes on personal data collection in light of the Facebook-Cambridge Analytica scandal Testing out Zoom’s green screen feature and discussing Tiger King and the Wild and Wonderful Whites of West Virginia How John’s son, Harrison (aka H-Bomb) and his love of bow ties inspired the creation of H-Bomb Ties What it’s like for people with disabilities to find good employment and how we can help Links H-Bomb Ties Chmura Economics & Analytics John’s Crazy Socks Ep 15 – Meet Paul Marnecheck Ep 85 – A Mission of Integration – Meet Shari Hunter Ep 117 – Accounting for Business Growth – Meet Chuck Mullen Ep 122 – Talent Search – Meet Aaron Grossman Company of One: Why Staying Small Is the Next Big Thing for Business: by Paul Jarvis The Great Hack

Ladies and gentlemen, you’re about to WATCH the best podcast ever recorded. On BPE’s first-ever video podcast, Alex chats with CEO of TalentLaunch Aaron Grossman. They discuss his journey of going from a paperboy to running a $130 million staffing and talent company, the importance of company culture, neverending gratitude, and Aaron’s side project, the Wrestlers in Business Network, among many others. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6yi99zBbTjA Notes Personal and professional wins The importance of mindfulness and paying attention to the details Aaron’s journey from college to the creation of TalentLaunch The importance of setting good processes Art vs. Science in Business and Sports and the 80/20 rule Make or break moments and going from owning a business to running a company How Aaron learned to be an entrepreneur from his parents Culture vs. Ego and the importance of having a purpose, a mission, and strong core values Growing into a $130 million company and beyond The creation of the Wrestlers in Business Network Links Aaron’s LinkedIn TalentLaunch Wrestlers in Business Network Entrepreneur’s Organization (EO) Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) The E-Myth Library by Michael Gerber  The “Scary Times” Success Manual by Dan Sullivan

What’s the difference between a well-run car dealership and a failing one? Alex chats with Wendy Rinehart, Executive Director of the Ohio Independent Automobile Dealers Association about what makes car dealerships successful, industry changes, being a woman in a male-dominated industry, industry challenges moving forward, and much more. You’re going to want to put the pedal to the metal and give this one a listen! Notes Wendy’s background and what led her to become the Executive Director of the OIADA Early challenges and being a female in a male-dominated industry Dealing with industry changes and divergent Stakeholders within the association What makes a well-run dealership? Facing new challenges and helping hundreds of dealers with a small office The most important things happening within the industry today Links Wendy’s LinkedIn OIADA website Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don’t by Jim Collins (article on his website) Good to Great: Why Some Companies Make the Leap and Others Don't by Jim Collins (Amazon Link) Who Moved My Cheese?: An Amazing Way to Deal with Change in Your Work and in Your Life by Spencer Johnson, MD (Amazon Link) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pxBQLFLei70

Overspending runs rampant in businesses.  Not if Jeff Moore can help it though.  In this episode, Alex chats with the Founder and CEO of Value Based Solutions LLC about the importance of mismanaging corporate spend to increase profits. They also discuss Jeff's early successes as an entrepreneur, what led him to start VBS, joining Entrepreneurs Organization, and much more. There's lots of useful information for your business in this one! Notes Personal and Professional wins Jeff's breaking through challenges as a kid, his early entrepreneurial success, and how baseball cards helped him pay for college. How Jeff's experience in the corporate world led to the birth of VBS, what they do and how they do it Managing indirect spend, consulting, and final best negotiations for large one-time purchases Creating, maintaining good processes Assumptions and Misconceptions about life and business Links Value Based Solutions’ WebsiteJeff’s LinkedInTJ Gliha’s EpisodeGive and Take by Adam Grant The Splendid and the Vile: A Saga of Churchill, Family, and Defiance During the Blitz by Erik Larson The Devil in the White City: Murder, Magic, and Madness at the Fair that Changed America by Erik Larson Entrepreneurs’ Organization

Alex heads to Boston and catches up with former BPE guest Vice President of Customer Success at LeasePilot, Nadine Ezzie. They explore the idea of staying true to yourself while discussing Nadine’s journey going from a successful attorney in Cleveland to dropping everything and joining the startup, LeasePilot in Boston. Then, Co-Founder and CEO of LeasePilot Gabriel Safar jumps on and shares what led him to go from a successful attorney to creating the startup. They also discuss the fundamental problem with law firms, the importance of hustling, labels, impactful moments, existential challenges, what it takes to be a CEO, and more. This is a jampacked double interview that you don’t want to miss. Show Notes Facing fears and embracing major life changes Her personal journey from successful attorney to join a startup Dog rescuing stories Adventures in stand-up comedy and how they change Nadine’s perspective in life The benefits of meditation Gabriel’s journey from attorney to entrepreneur Lots and lots of reading The Fundamental problem with law firms The birth of Lease Pilot Hustling REALCOM Labels and why they are bad Impactful moments, existential challenges, myths, and what it takes to be a CEO Links LeasePilot’s Website Nadine’s LinkedIn Gabriel’s LinkedIn Nadine’s First BPE Interview Meditation Apps Headspace Calm Books Tomorrow’s Lawyers and The End of Lawyers?: Rethinking the nature of legal services by Richard Susskind OBE The Innovator’s Dilemma: When New Technologies Cause Great Firms to Fail by Clayton Christensen Hero of the Empire: The Boer War, a Daring Escape and the Making of Winston Churchill by Candice Millard Pooja

Alex talks with psychotherapist and social worker Jessica Horvat and they delve into the minds of entrepreneurs and other humans. Tune in as they discuss Jessica’s definition of success, how visualization exercises can be beneficial, what Imposter Syndrome is and if all entrepreneurs have it, how to figure out what the “little guy” needs, where fear comes from and how to deal with it, and so much more. So, listen as Alex “lays down on the couch” and gets us all a little therapy. Show Notes Introduction on psychotherapy and Jessica’s definition of success Personal and professional wins Jessica’s journey from feminist art student to psychotherapist Visualization exercises and Alex’s summer camp memories Imposter Syndrome and entrepreneurs Jessica-isms and meditation Fear and the little guy’s needs Jessica’s Alter Ego Also Mentioned in this Episode Jessica’s Info: Cell - 216-288-6560 Email: jhorvat3803@gmail.comPsychology Today Profile Nadine Ezzie’s B.P.E. EpisodeChuck Mullen’s B.P.E. EpisodeBrené Brown’s Ted Talk on Listening to ShameWhen Things Fall Apart by Pema Chödrön Meditation Apps: Ten Percent Happier HeadspaceInsight Timer https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OBHf6r7Ldo0

Fellow podcaster and chairman of Apple Growth Partners, Mr. Chuck Mullen, joins Alex to talk about how entrepreneurs can benefit from working with a CPA, with great information on succession planning, mergers & acquisitions, valuation, and more.  Connect with Chuck on LinkedIn or at Applegrowth.com, where you can also explore Chuck’s podcast, Sliced. SHOW NOTES CPAs doing more than accounting – Health Growth Checkup Process, Client Experience Business Success stories - Experience pays off and hard work pays off Discovering a knack for accounting What a CPA can do for an entrepreneur Succession Planning – Having tough conversations about the future of a company Mergers and Acquisitions – Making them happen; The status of the M&A market Bracing for recession Valuation debates; When a deal needs to be stopped Sales, Marketing, and Strategic Partners The joy of Transcendental Meditation ALSO REFERENCED IN THE SHOW TJ Gliha was our guest on Ep 116 – Risky Trades and Safe Bets Alex was on episode 35 of Chuck’s Sliced Podcast: applegrowth.com/ep35-how-to-lawyer-proof-your-business/ Listen to Marvin Montgomery on BPE in Ep 82 – Elevating Your Sales Alex recommends the book Shoe Dog, by Phil Knight Chuck recommends the book The Power of Now, by Eckhart Tolle

Get familiar with the ins and outs of proprietary trading, and how TJ Gliha went from the stock exchange floor to become Vice President of Private Client Services at Sequoia Financial Group. What are traders doing with their hands? What has QUANTS meant for Wall Street? How does TJ help business owners think through succession, financial independence, and capital structure? Find out this week on BPE. Connect with TJ on LinkedIn and visit Sequoia Financial Group online at sequoia-financial.com SHOW NOTES An interest in investments leads to an internship in NYC; New love and learning to trade in Chicago; The path to proprietary trading; Gambling and risk; Minimizing loss; QUANTS and how a computer changed the game; Prioritizing family and Sequoia Financial; Helping business owners manage wealth and prepare for their futures; Recession as an opportunity; What Sequoia does for businesses and how it started. ALSO REFERENCED IN THE SHOW Jamie Dimon’s Harvard Business School commencement speech is on YouTube here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9T9Kp4NE5l4 Listen to Admiral McRaven’s speech and our discussion on it in Bonus Episode – Admiral McRaven’s Lessons from Navy Seal Training with Steve Bales after episode 36.

The best business coaches are the ones with business experience, and some of the best ones we know are Adam Sonnhalter and Jack Mencini. Adam and Jack join Alex this week to share some keys for business success that they’ve learned from inside corporate America. They can be reached via the website for Maximum Value Partners at maximumvp.com, on Facebook at www.facebook.com/maximumvp/, or on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/maximum-value-partners-llc/. Their podcast is Dirty Secrets of Small Business, and the episode where Alex was the guest can be found at dirtysecretsofsmallbusiness.com/episode/alex-gertsburg-owner-of-the-gertsburg-law-firm/. SHOW NOTES Alex opens the show Welcome Adam and Jack; A case of Podcast envy; Business coaches with experience Discovering the need for effective business coaches A high-level overview of the 7 Keys to Success for growing, sustainable profit Helping business owners reach their goals When a business relationship doesn’t work; Having the difficult conversations ALSO MENTIONED IN THE SHOW The E-Myth by Michael Gerber (book)

Alex welcomes two icons of Chagrin Falls, Mr. Steve Crandall and Mr. Karl Maersch. Have you seen the Save Grove Hill signs around town? They give us the details on the local controversy and expand the conversation to the state of political discourse in general. Tune in and enjoy a conversation spanning our backyard and our nation. Visit Crandall and Pera Law online at injuryverdicts.com for more on Steve’s law practice. Learn more about West Four IP, Karl’s intellectual property consulting firm, at westfourip.com. Show Notes Welcome Steve and Karl; Celebrating wins in parenting and health goals Entrepreneurship and charting your own course The Grove Hill controversy – what are the issues and what are the sides  Experiences with zoning in Chagrin Falls and perspective on the Bancroft house Who is Save Grove Hill  Zooming out to Washington and how the “story” is replacing truth in politics The two-party system and polarization Career politicians and compromise; views on the electoral college, current state of American politics Having political conversations that aren’t so volatile Term limits for high school coaches ALSO REFERENCED IN THE SHOW Previous episodes we recommend: Ep 64 – How Trial Lawyers Make the World Better – Meet Steve Crandall  Ep 73 – Talk of the Town – Meet Karl Maersch  Ep 45 – Head of the Class – Reconnect with Bob Hunt and Nancy Santilli Learn more about the Save Grove Hill movement at savegrovehill.org The Great Hack (documentary) on Netflix The Art of Thinking Clearly (book) by Rolf Dobelli Swim with the Sharks Without Being Eaten Alive (book) by Harvey Mackay Atomic Habits (book) by James Clear 10% Happier and Headspace (meditation apps) Some acronyms that are used in the Grove Hill conversation: ARV = Architectural Review Board BZA = Board of Zoning Appeals  WPA = Works Progress Administration