Business Wingmen Business Podcast

The episode discusses the challenges of transitioning individual contributors into management roles, highlighting a significant 60% failure rate within the first 24 months. The hosts, Steve and Travis Smith of "The Business Wingman Show," share personal anecdotes and expert insights, emphasizing that successful managers must shift from a "me" to a "we" mindset, prioritize the success of others, and embrace delegation despite initial inefficiencies. Key areas for development are outlined, including moving beyond day-to-day tactical work, adopting essential behaviors like setting boundaries and embracing accountability, and cultivating a proactive, collaborative leadership mindset focused on anticipation and problem-solving. Ultimately, the discussion aims to equip both aspiring managers and those responsible for promoting them with the knowledge to foster long-term success.

The "Business Wingman Show" podcast episode focuses on the challenges new graduates face when entering the workforce and offers practical advice for success. Hosted by Steve and Travis Smith, a father-son duo, the discussion centers on a LinkedIn article Travis wrote outlining ten common struggles experienced by young professionals. Key areas explored include the importance of strong communication skills, emphasizing the need for professional diction, proactive initiation of conversations, and conciseness over jargon or overly lengthy explanations. The hosts also stress the significance of time management, respecting deadlines, and developing professional acumen, advocating for early arrivals to meetings and proactive communication regarding potential delays. Finally, the conversation highlights the importance of gaining real-world experience, navigating office politics, and setting realistic career expectations, underscoring the value of internships and mentorship over immediate high compensation, and suggesting strategic career planning even before choosing a college major.

Are you unknowingly exposing your business to crippling lawsuits and financial disaster? Many business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs are walking into hidden legal traps that can have devastating consequences. In this essential interview, corporate attorney John Newell of Shell New LLP joins The Business Wingman Show to shed light on the most common and costly legal mistakes businesses make – and, more importantly, how YOU can proactively avoid them.

This discussion emphasizes that expanding a business by adding new products or services should be approached cautiously. The hosts advise considering factors like timing, potential impact on the core business, necessary resources (like labor and insurance), and whether the new offering logically fits within the existing brand. They stress the importance of due diligence, including researching market demand and the competitive landscape, and suggest that emotional reactions or "shiny object syndrome" should be tempered with practical evaluation and sufficient time for reflection before committing to an expansion.

This discussion highlights that while partnerships can be a strong way to build a business by combining skills and resources, they are statistically the most common reason for small business failure, often due to partners being unable to work together effectively. The key to successful partnerships, as emphasized in the source, lies in choosing the right partner, establishing clear expectations through written agreements (including a plan for dissolution), seeking guidance from mentors, maintaining consistent and clear communication, and fostering mutual respect even when disagreements arise. The overarching message is that proactively addressing these factors from the outset can prevent many common pitfalls and allow the partnership to thrive.

Is Your Business Ready to Scale? Critical Mistakes & How to Avoid ThemThinking about scaling your business? HOLD ON. Expanding sounds exciting, but jumping in unprepared is one of the FASTEST ways to sink your ship. Many leaders hit hidden icebergs – financial drains, operational chaos, team burnout – that they never saw coming.Before you make a move, learn the CRITICAL pitfalls and the *real* questions you need to ask. Steve & Travis (Your Business Wingmen) break down how to scale SMARTLY in this episode. Avoid the costly mistakes. Watch now & build a STRONGER future

Tired of hiring headaches that turn into legal nightmares? In this crucial episode of The Business Wingman Show, Steve and Travis Smith sit down with employment law expert Jim McDonald from Fisher Phillips to reveal the secrets to smart hiring and how to avoid bringing a "walking lawsuit" into your organization.Discover the critical steps you MUST take during your hiring process to identify and screen out potential problem employees *before* they cost you time, money, and endless stress.Here's what you'll learn:The Fatal Flaw in Resumes: Why relying solely on resumes is a recipe for disaster (and what to do instead!).The Power of the Employment Application: Uncover the key questions you need to ask and red flags to watch out for (including those tricky "mutual decisions"!).Interviewing Like a Pro: Legal and effective questions to uncover a candidate's true work ethic, attitude, and potential for conflict. Learn what you *can* and *cannot* ask!Decoding Red Flags: From forgotten supervisors to victim mentality – Jim shares his decades of experience in spotting trouble early.The Salary Conversation: Navigate compensation discussions legally and effectively.The MUST-HAVE Document: Learn about the California Dispute Resolution Agreement (arbitration agreement) and why it's a game-changer for employers.Reference Checks That Actually Work: Go beyond HR and get the real scoop on candidates.The Introductory Period Advantage: How to use the first 90 days (or more) to ensure a good fit and address issues proactively.Documenting for Protection: Why written records are essential for managing employee performance and mitigating legal risk.Key Takeaways:Don't gamble with your hiring decisions! This episode provides actionable insights and practical strategies to build a high-performing team while safeguarding your business from costly legal battles. Learn how to hire with confidence and create a positive, productive work environment.

Business slowdowns are inevitable.  When these light periods show up, what do you do to keep your team motivated?  What do you do to capture this time and get things done that would get put aside when business is heavy?In today's episode of the Business Wingmen, your hosts Steve and Travis Smith discuss a variety of things that will improve your staff, your operation and your ability to confidently get through the next downturn.

We're headed into a period of potentially great economic uncertainty.  To prevent your business from a severe setback, focus on these 4 areas that will enable you to avoid financial damage and achieve economic resilience.

The business environment is changing and now it's headed for your management career!  As companies big and small look for ways to become more efficient, leaners and more profitable, the role of management is being looked at for its future viability.If you're strength is in leading and overseeing the work of others, you'll need to future-proof your leadership now, ensuring your company sees you as a management asset, not a place to cut.

Career growth and development is a lifetime pursuit.  So, how do you know you are doing things right and will eventually receive the rewards associated with career success?  In today's episode of the Business Wingmen, your hosts, Steve Smith & Travis Smith reveal the 4 universal principles that ensure career success.

Are you waking up dreading work? Do you feel disgruntled, unappreciated, or just plain tired of your job? You're not alone. Many professionals experience these feelings, especially in today's ever-changing work environment. In this episode, we discuss what to do when you hate your job, but before you make any rash decisions like revenge quitting or quiet quitting.

Why are self managed employees more likely to be high performers in their jobs?  The answer lies in how they manage themselves and the work they do.  Hiring these folks is the best approach but how can you identify and develop employees who may exhibit high performance tendencies?  In this episode of the Business Wingmen, your hosts Steve and Travis Smith define what to look for and how to approach developing self managed employees.

In this episode, your business wingmen, Steve Smith and Travis Smith, take turns handling situations that occur with leaders, business owners, managers and professionals.  Their evaluation and advice for dealing with these issues is worth the listen. 

Is DEI a business necessity or a political burden? In this episode, we explore the pros and cons of DEI in the workplace, analyze recent trends, and discuss how to navigate the challenges and unlock business growth. Listen in and gain valuable insights!

How energized are you to get goals for the new year?  Unlike New Years resolutions which have a dismal failure rate, legitimate business goals are serious if you want your business to grow or be more profitable.  In today's episode, your Business Wingmen hosts, Steve Smith & Travis Smith share simple but effective ways to establish and stick to your goals all year long.

What you showed up to work wearing use to mean something.  Today, with so much of the country in various degrees of casual dress, it's debateable that this principle of excellence even means anything anymore.  So, do you pay attention to how you show up?  Does your wardrobe cater to a successful presentation?  In today's episode of 'Does Dressing for Success Even Matter Today', your Business Wingmen hosts weigh in on the merits of looking your best as a way to be your best. 

Inspirational moments are all around us but you have to go looking for them.  How much inspiration have you encountered and have you inspired others as you work and live your life?Today's Business Wingmen episode, 'What Inspires You' is a great conversation on what inspirational moments look and feel like and how you can inspire others by just showing up.Listen in, you'll thank us later!

Many times, fluctuations with customers and vendors gets down to one issue; you're not easy to do business with!  Lots of elements can contribute to this but the main one is, how the owner/ manager views the relationship with customers and vendors.In this episode of the Business Wingmen Show, Steve Smith and Travis Smith discuss how this happens and what to do to keep the people you worked so hard to get.

It's a sure bet that starting a business will include making mistakes.  Everyone makes mistakes but you don't need to repeat other business owner's blunders.  In this episode, we outline 8 mistakes that new business owners make and what you can do to avoid them.  Join your Business Wingmen Show hosts- Steve Smith & Travis Smith to learn what these success limiting mistakes are and what to do to avoid them.We credit the source of this episode's topic to Effe Towers for providing their article titled, Top 8 Mistakes Business Owners Make: #3 is Killing More Businesses Now Than Ever! 

What inspires you?  Is it a friend, a co-worker or a role model you look up to?  For us, it's quotes from famous business professionals who capture the essence of what is most important to remember.In this episode of the Business Wingmen Show, Steve Smith & Travis Smith share their most meaning quotes and talk about the people who originated them.  Listen in, you'll thank us later!

How do you work with people you don't like?  Do you fight with them?  Do you ghost them?  What if you both are responsible for producing the same results.  It's a problem that causes many employees (and managers) undue stress.  Do you have to live with someone you don't like working in your area or being part of your team?  Yes and no!  Listen to today's Business Wingmen podcast and learn how to work with someone you don't like.  You'll be glad you did!

Many people can't say No, even when they know they should.  Lack of confidence, not wanting to hurt other's feelings and a desire to please all play a role.  There is, however, a way to say No, and be respected for it.  Listen in and learn how.

Hiring the right sales person for your company requires knowing who will fit best with your culture and process.  New sales hires canturn out way more successful with the proper onboarding and orientation.  Listen in and learn how.

How do you bounce back when your career takes a wrong turn? A layoff, a demotion, or a firing can all create a sense of fear and a lack of confidence.  But careers are a journey so at some point, everyone runs into a setback.  Today's Business Wingmen Show episode focuses on the things you should do to get back into the game and headed in the right career direction.

One of the best ways to effectively manage a team is by providing feedback.  Employees want it but many managers avoid giving it.  Direction, evaluation, and skill building all require regular feedback.  If you have been avoiding or struggling to give feedback in a confident, genuine manner, this episode is for you.

When is the best time for companies to invest in professional development for new hires or recently promoted individuals?  Most wait for problems to surface.  We think a more proactive approach is better.

At some point, you may find yourself in a huge mess of your own making.  Despite your best planning and decision making, the Shit has hit the fan.  What do you do to salvage whatever is going down while making sure you survive the entire nightmare.In this episode of the Business Wingmen Podcast, your co-hosts, Steve Smith and Travis Smith recall their own hire raising misfortunes and suggest ways of getting through and moving on.

Unless you have an airtight bond with your team, there are things your employees might never share with you.  They think about these things constantly and debate their merits with co-workers.  What is so important to them that they keep their bosses out of the conversation?In today's Business Wingmen Podcast, Steve Smith & Travis Smith talk about some of these well-guarded secrets and give you their thoughts on how to address them with team members who really want to tell their bosses.

We all do things in our businesses that we do out of habit but know we shouldn't.  We know these habits aren't the best way to work but we have gotten comfortable and don't give them much thought.  From not delegating and being a micro-manager to procrastinating and reacting too quickly, we complain about things that don't turn out right but fail to realize the connection to us.In today's episode of the Business Wingmen, your hosts Steve Smith and Travis Smith reveal their own shortcomings and dissect the more common 'bad habits' that cause many small business owners to get frustrated on a regular basis

One way to expand your business and grow revenue is by opening new markets.  While this seems logical, it is not always the right move.  Every business opportunity has pros and cons and opening new markets is no different.In today's episode of the Business Wingmen, Steve Smith & Travis Smith explore the benefits and drawbacks of expanding your business's footprint by opening new markets.

Is remote work here to stay?  Not everyone thinks so.  Still, if you are managing remote workers or if you are new to remote work, your Business Wingmen have some things that will help you optimize your situation.On today's episode of the Business Wingmen, Steve Smith & Travis Smith talk about thinking and working differently to get the most from your remote based team. 

Leaders need to be able to solve problems well and quickly.  They can do this by making better decisions that lead to great problem resolution.On today's Business Wingmen podcast, Steve Smith and Travis Smith debate the merits of problem solving and the best way to get the outcome you want, quickly.

Taking on new leadership roles can be overwhelming at first.  But, in time you should be fully in control of the role you have. Many professionals, however, never get to this point of responsibility ownership, and end up with a role that controls them.In today's Business Wingmen podcast, your hosts Steve Smith & Travis Smith serve up situations and strategies for taking control and owning the role you have.  Don't allow your position to run you as the long terms consequences can be severe!

In this episode, your Business Wingmen interview guest, Tom Sell- CEO of Complete Marine Freight in Palma de Miorca, Spain.  Tom's journey as a successful owner of multiple companies is a great example of exercising patience along the way.  His background and lessons learned are greater teaching moments for entrepreneurs aspiring to grow sustainable companies.

Business grows as good ideas are implemented.  Are your ideas good enough to run with?  This episode hosted by Business Wingmen hosts Steve Smith & Travis Smith explore the value of great ideas and how to verify yours before running with them.

Congratulations, you've been promoted!  You're all excited until you realize you are now managing your former peers!  The people who use to be your friends now report to you.Managing others is a tough enough assignment without the added difficulty of convincing your old work teammates that you are now their boss!  In this episode, your Business Wingmen hosts, Steve Smith and Travis Smith share their insights as they reveal situations they both navigated early in their management careers.

What happens when you join a company and others question why you got the job?  It happens in small family businesses and large corporations alike.  In this episode, your Business Wingmen hosts, Steve Smith and Travis Smith trade opinions and recommendations for overcoming a perceived lack of credibility in the workplace.

Think internship programs are only for the fortune 500? Think again.  Now, more than ever, a well thought out internship program is a great way to farm new talent while establishing your company as a contributor to cultivating the future workforce.In today's episode of 'The Benefits of a Company Internship Program', your Business Wingmen podcast hosts- Steve Smith & Travis Smith, outline the steps and reasons for a successful internship program.

Being successful in a new role doesn't just happen because you got promoted.  Your first 30 days in this new assignment is critical to demonstrating that your company promoted the right person!In this episode of The Business Wingmen Show, your hosts Steve Smith and Travis Smith lay out some tips to ensure you get off to a great short and warn of some actions that will cause you to lose ground with your team and your boss.

Getting promoted starts with knowing what to do before the interview.  What research do you do?  What questions do you ask?  How do you handle yourself regardless of the outcome.In this episode of 'The Business Wingmen', your hosts Steve Smith & Travis Smith lay out a strategy for showing up and performing like a professional.

Here's how to help non-sales business owners and C-level execs champion the sales process and/or facilitate sales themselves.Our Guest: Scott Peterson, founder and Principal of Carver Peterson'   Founded in 2014, Carver Peterson helps growth-minded entrepreneurs of B2B technical & professional services firms build high-performing sales teams so that they can confidently grow & scale.   Founder & Principal, Scott Peterson, does it by helping these companies refine their sales strategy, define their sales process and specialize their sales structure.Q&A:What are the two biggest issues you see with companies you're meeting with as to why they are struggling with sales?Why do some sales reps make it big, where others with the same opportunity struggle?How do you teach the Sales Challenger model?What advice do you have for hiring the right sales reps?What's one piece of advice you can share as it relates to sales operations management you wish everyone listening took?