CEO Podcasts: CEO Chat Podcast + I AM CEO Podcast Powered by Blue 16 Media & CBNation.co

The Journey and Vision Gresham Harkless opens the segment by discussing his current need to reconfigure and reboot his entire business. He notes that what brought him to his current level of success is not what will take him to the next level. This insight is driving him to look at things and operate differently, posing the challenge of "how to unlearn the things that you've been doing." He introduces this content as a special episode and a snippet documenting his journey into starting a new venture called Blue Star Franchise, which will also lead to a sub-site/channel called Franchise CEO within CB Nation. His purpose is to document this building-out process to be helpful for others considering franchises or starting any type of business. Challenges, Learnings, and Real-World Results Harkless candidly shares that the journey has not gone the way he wanted, leading to a feeling of scrambling over the last three to six months. He realizes that while he has been testing things (like DMs) on a low scale, the core problem is the need to put more "gasoline on the fire"—to test things with enough energy/money to truly see if they work and then iterate. He explains that he's had to reboot the entire business because things weren't performing at the desired level. This rebuild has required him to spend more time there, which has had a domino effect, pulling him away from dedicating sufficient time to the new broker business. Personal responsibilities, like having a new baby, further contribute to feeling "fractured and very split". Re-Prioritization and Forward Momentum Harkless is at a crossroads, questioning how to do what needs to be done. He is wondering if leaning on his current team—including a good VA and his integrator—can help take the business to the next level. He acknowledges that scaling has been challenging and he has had to have difficult conversations to get where he needs to be. He concludes that the central issue is not just direction, but the "figuring out part"—reconfiguring the entire operation. He recognizes that reaching a level of success requires asking, "How do I take it to the next level?" Moving forward, he must continue to ask himself, "What do I want and how do I make that happen?" and commit to taking it a day at a time.   Previous Episode: https://iamceo.co/iam2665-running-the-long%e2%80%91term-race-in-business/ Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site – coming soon) – franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham shares the current challenges he faces, which involve a massive reboot and resetting of his existing digital marketing and web support businesses. This phase requires exhausting work to undo old processes and establish a clear new direction for success, which he is exploring through updated strategies like testing smaller budget Facebook ads rather than relying on expensive, less successful lead portals. His goal is to organically generate opportunities, avoiding external lead dependence to ensure better alignment and a higher chance of ultimate success for his new business direction. He recognizes that this is not a completely clean slate but rather an opportunity to approach an existing business with a fresh "CEO" mindset, acknowledging past mistakes to unlearn and correct processes. Although he sees significant excitement and opportunity, this reboot necessitates dedicated work to untrain himself and his team, creating an entirely different operational environment one step at a time.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

The Journey and Vision Gresham Harkless opens the episode by reflecting on the importance of staying afloat amid a busy schedule, then using that stability as a springboard for bigger achievements. He outlines his current project, Blue Star Franchise, and explains that he's documenting the startup process on his “I AM CEO” podcast and on YouTube. The purpose is two‑fold: to provide a roadmap for anyone considering a franchise or any new venture, and to create a “Franchise CEO” sub‑channel within the broader CB Nation community. Challenges, Learnings, and Real‑World Results He candidly shares the reality of juggling client emergencies, personal obligations, and the inevitable setbacks that come with building a business. Over the past year, only two deals closed—one from within his own network and another from a friend—yet he still perceives strong alignment with his overall mission. Harkless emphasizes that early‑year losses are normal, that opportunities exist if you keep cultivating them, and that a “marathon mindset” is essential for long‑term progress. Re‑Prioritization and Forward Momentum Facing a confluence of professional rebuilds (digital‑marketing systems, franchise infrastructure) and personal pressures (condo issues, family responsibilities), Harkless resolves to re‑prioritize, carve out dedicated time, and lean into the work that generates the most impact. He argues that a business should not be judged solely on its first‑year performance; perseverance, continuous improvement, and running the “marathon race” will ultimately unlock the phenomenal results he envisions. Previous Episode: https://iamceo.co/iam2632-day-281-franchise-broker-journey/ Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site – coming soon) – franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

In this special episode, Gresh shares the challenges of building a strong business foundation, noting his initial attempt to hire others before the core systems were fully established led to difficulties. Realizing the substantial opportunity in the franchise brokerage business, he is now prioritizing the crucial task of rebuilding and refining his digital marketing efforts to ensure long-term success. Currently, he is working on a strategy that balances actively generating leads and converting customers with the necessary rebuild of his core systems, which include developing the websites for his different business segments. Gresh emphasizes the importance of implementing some key systems, even if not all, to avoid taxing workdays and ultimately achieve the foundational stability needed to grow. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Shona Bell, a Certified Public Accountant and financial strategist, return to discuss an often-overlooked secret to funding major life goals, like starting a franchise or investing in real estate: a permanent cash balance policy. Her focus is on educating business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs about setting up their finances the right way and strategically keeping taxes in mind, moving beyond basic CFO services to holistic financial planning and legacy building. Shona highlights a major gap: many people lack a dedicated financial planner after leaving corporate life or simply aren't aware of advanced financial strategies.  A critical takeaway from Shona is debunking the misconception that wealth building is something you do only after you become wealthy, or that it costs "so much" to start. She stresses that it takes intention, not a massive bankroll, and encourages people to overcome "money trauma" and apprehension.  Website: www.beyondacountingtax.com LinkedIn: shona-bell Previous Episode: iam1383-accountant-helps-business-owners-accelerate-their-financial-mindset Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Murray Seward, CEO of Outback Team Building and Training. His company provides services ranging from fun team-building activities to soft skill and leadership mindset training.  Murray focuses on delivering their products through a consultative sales approach, concentrating on finding clients with genuine pain points—like poor internal communication or change management issues—and offering customized solutions.  Ultimately, Murray defines being a CEO as empowering the younger generation to realize what a great work life can be, helping them get off to a great start in their careers. Website: https://outbackteambuilding.com/ HuffPost feature: www.huffpost.com/entry Previous Episode: iam396-ceo-helps-companies-build-strong-teams-and-grow-great-leaders Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

This throwback “I Am CEO” podcast, hosted by Gresham Harkless, welcomes Stephanie Powers—three‑time CEO, photographer, holistic health coach, and founder of Lightworkers Lounge. Gresham sets the stage by highlighting Stephanie's eclectic background: from her early photography work featured on the Weather Channel and Airbnb to her personal battle with an autoimmune disease, which sparked a shift toward holistic health and spiritual entrepreneurship. This episode promises listeners practical, bite‑sized wisdom without the drag of lengthy interviews. Stephanie's Journey & Business Model Stephanie's path to CEO status was anything but linear. After earning a degree in organizational leadership and working a conventional 9‑to‑5, she launched a photography venture in 2014, then pivoted to health coaching following her own self‑healing experience. In 2018 she created Lightworkers Lounge as a creative outlet—a blend of blogging, freestyle videos, and spiritual content. When a divorce and financial strain forced her to confront the job market, she chose to “pretend” Lightworkers Lounge was her full‑time job, setting a strict schedule, clocking in and out, and treating it as a salaried position. That mindset shift ignited rapid growth, pulling in roughly 1,000 new followers each week and ultimately freeing her from the need to apply for traditional employment. Key CEO Insights & Takeaways Stephanie defines a CEO as a leader who inspires, makes work enjoyable, and shines a light for others—rather than a manager perched above a hierarchy. Her “secret sauce” is relentless authenticity: she engages her audience as an “Instagram fam,” speaks as if sitting with a close friend, and shuns follower metrics in favor of genuine connection. Practical hacks include treating side‑hustles like full‑time jobs, embracing income uncertainty, and regularly grounding herself in nature to stay attuned to intuition. Her advice to her younger self—and to aspiring entrepreneurs—is simple: reject the conventional 9‑to‑5 narrative, believe in the viability of your passion, and become your own biggest cheerleader. Listeners are invited to follow Lightworkers Lounge on Instagram, at lightworkers‑lounge.com, and via the weekly podcast released every Wednesday. Website: https://lightworkers-lounge.com/ Instagram: @lightworkerslounge and @stephanies_destiny Thyroid First Aid Kit: https://www.amazon.com/Thyroid-First-Aid-Kit-thyroid/dp/1979604215/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=thyroid+first+aid+kit&qid=1564789471&s=gateway&sr=8-1   Previous Episode: IAM395- CEO and Entrepreneur Focuses on The Importance of Spiritual & Emotional Health Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham opens by discussing the need for a comprehensive "reboot" due to feeling overwhelmed by "so many things happening" and "spinning plates." He shares the critical importance of paying attention to one's mental state. Being honest about where things are at mentally is crucial to avoid constantly feeling like things are going wrong. Gresh notes that his wife calls him a "fixer of things," which, while positive, is also described as extremely draining. The cumulative and often simultaneous nature of problems can be overwhelming. As solutions are applied to one issue, more often arise, making it challenging to maintain balance. The episode concludes by stressing the necessity of protecting one's peace and utilizing the awareness cultivated—often with the help of a coach—to manage the challenging seasons and the many responsibilities placed upon them. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham provides an update on a significant shift in his business focus. He acknowledged making a sizable investment and trying hard, but the lack of movement and leads has brought him to a crossroads. The speaker is now contemplating whether to switch gears entirely or continue on a reduced basis, realizing he must prioritize other areas of his business that are showing more activity. Despite the shift, he has re-joined BNI (Business Networking International) specifically for the franchise brokerage opportunity, recognizing it as the highest potential revenue stream.  Gresham concludes by outlining his current business priorities: Blue 16 Media is the bill-payer, CEO Hacks is the most in alignment and unique, and the Franchise Brokerage has the largest financial upside, despite being his third priority. He is taking a step back from the franchise business because it proved more challenging than anticipated, choosing to navigate the "ebbs and flows" of his ventures one step at a time. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham emphasizes the need for self-reflection to understand how he reached his current point, noting that getting "off path" is usually a gradual process, not a single decision. He had to make necessary, albeit unpleasant, decisions for the health of his business, which involved drilling down into the numbers for each micro-business or "pod" and resetting expectations. The core issue was realizing that he was working hard to generate more revenue just to maintain existing overhead, only to have opportunities "fumbled" due to a lack of his own presence or execution. This prompted a massive effort to restructure and reboot the entire system.  The restructuring led to the crucial realization that not all business "pods" are worth growing, which requires a new focus and clarity. Specifically, he is rethinking his franchise brokerage business model. Instead of guiding clients through the entire process himself, he is considering pivoting it into a lead generation machine, handing off opportunities to more experienced brokers for a split.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresh begins with a thought experiment: if he were starting his business journey today, knowing what he knows now, how would he approach it, specifically focusing on lead generation. He recalls the constant desire during his own path to be ahead of where he started. He notes that the perennial challenge in this type of business remains how to effectively generate leads, acknowledging that there is no single, solid, established "new formula" for this crucial process, prompting a need for continuous experimentation. Drawing inspiration from listening to an entrepreneur's long-form content, the speaker realizes that the key focus should not be merely on the quantity of leads, but their quality.  Ultimately, Gresham concludes that if he were to start over, he would pivot his entire focus to becoming a specialist lead generation company. Instead of handling the entire broker process (calling, qualifying, and guiding), he would generate quality leads and then partner with established brokers, splitting the commission.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Marcus Ogden—a former NFL offensive lineman, bestselling author, keynote speaker, business coach, and host of the “Get Authentic with Marcus Ogden” podcast. Marcus then outlines his recent speaking engagement for Fayetteville State University's fintech conference, titled “From Setbacks to Startups: How Resilient Leaders Thrive in a Tech‑Driven World.” He stresses that setbacks are primed for comebacks and introduces his BISON mindset framework—Boldness, Integrity, Self‑awareness, Ownership, and Never quit—as a guide for leadership, marketing, sales, and personal growth. He recounts his own low point—being fired twice, working a graveyard‑shift custodial job, and hitting rock bottom—before pivoting to public speaking in 2013, eventually securing paid gigs, coaching Fortune 500 clients, and building a robust team of specialists who support his podcast, CRM, operations, and creative production. Finally, Marcus offers key CEO nuggets: always listen to the paid team, treat lines of credit as liabilities once used, and view the CEO role as a responsibility to serve and uplift the people under your charge. Website: marquesogden.com LinkedIn: marquesogden Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Sara Schulting‑Kranz, the founder of Live Boldly Coaching. Certified in relational and betrayal trauma work and experienced as a partner of an addict, she now serves individuals and groups through one‑on‑one coaching, long‑term programs, and immersive retreats in the Grand Canyon and Southern California's mountains. Her retreats blend hiking, adventure, breathwork, meditation, and coaching, creating a five‑day, nature‑based experience that “slows the amygdala” and activates the cerebellum, giving participants mental clarity and emotional release. Sara also launches a divorce‑recovery program for women, emphasizing that healing isn't linear and that her eclectic background—as a teacher, stay‑at‑home mom, and trauma survivor—forms the “secret sauce” of her work. Website: www.liveboldlycoaching.com Documentary:www.walkthroughthis.com Instagram: saraschultingkranz Facebook Personal: sara.schultingkranz Facebook Biz: liveboldly LinkedIn: sara-schulting-kranz   Previous Episode: iam394-natural-energy-healer-coaches-individuals-through-healing-and-transformation Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Katherine Liola, founder and CEO of Concentric Private Wealth, where they differentiate from traditional firms by centering every client interaction around the question “why?” and aligning financial strategy with each person's intrinsic drivers—core values, unique abilities, and passions that define who they truly are. Rather than merely managing assets, Catherine's team helps clients pause, reflect deeply, and make decisions that serve their broader life purpose. This approach extends to a novel pricing model that ties fees to the scope and value of work, not just the amount of assets under management, reinforcing the firm's focus on holistic, purpose‑driven wealth planning. Katherine urged listeners to trust their intuition and invest in self‑exploration, noting that financial fitness is attainable even amid setbacks.  Website: concentricpw.com LinkedIn: katherineliola Facebook: Concentric-Private-Wealth Previous Episode: iam393-founder-provides-the-tools-to-live-a-more-transformational-life Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham candidly shares the hurdles he's faced in his first year: no closed deals yet, restructuring his marketing company, personal setbacks and juggling family responsibilities. Despite generating a sizable pool of leads, his outreach—via Google Ads, LinkedIn DMs, Facebook groups, and newsletters—has produced little traction. He notes that franchise sales cycles can stretch up to a year, and he's still searching for low‑hanging‑fruit opportunities that haven't materialized through his existing channels. Recognizing that big‑budget spending has been ineffective, Gresham plans to reboot his marketing approach by leaning into his strengths: personal networks (BNI), organic content creation, and modest test ads to identify what works. He likens the process to warfare—play to your advantage, avoid overextending, then regroup. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresh discusses the importance of execution over merely having a playbook, noting that while the franchising model supplies a detailed roadmap, success hinges on the founder's ability to actually implement it. He also mentions challenges such as client layoffs, under‑delivering strategy sessions, and weighing the ROI of a mentorship program he feels isn't paying off. Despite the hurdles, Gresh emphasizes the power of networking. He recounts gaining referrals through a BNI group, which led to a promising conversation about a potential franchisor. He acknowledges that consistent outreach—especially to people affected by layoffs—is essential, even if the volume of responses can be low. Looking ahead, he plans to focus his time on networking, continue incremental outreach. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresh reflects on recent setbacks that have forced him to “reboot” his business. He admits that operational weaknesses, inconsistent momentum, and a lack of traction from a recent program have contributed to the slowdown. Recognizing that the responsibility for fixing these issues lies entirely with him, he outlines a plan to tighten operations, improve digital‑marketing efforts, and rebuild the culture he envisions for his company. Gresh also highlights the value of the extensive content he has already created—particularly the numerous podcasts he's produced—comparing it to an immutable credential like a degree. By leveraging this body of work, he aims to shift toward a stronger personal brand, gain greater control over his ventures, and ultimately turn the current challenges into a growth opportunity for himself and his audience.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresh details the personal and professional hurdles he's confronting: a newborn son disrupting sleep, a demanding late‑night schedule, and a digital‑marketing strategy that fell short of expectations. Faced with the need to rebuild his marketing funnel while simultaneously overhauling the brokerage operation, he acknowledges feeling overwhelmed but sees the situation as an opportunity to refocus. He's scaling back to a part‑time model for now, leaning on his strengths in networking (through BNI) and content creation—especially his existing podcast, which already boasts over 1,600 interviews—to generate leads without spreading himself too thinresh reflects on his target market: individuals who are new to entrepreneurship and often unaware of franchising as a viable path. He recognizes a significant educational gap and believes his extensive experience and conversation archive position him well to fill that void. As he continues to “take it step by step, Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Yoni Tserruya, co‑founder and CEO of Lusha, positions itself as a sales‑intelligence platform that uses AI to eliminate the administrative burden on sellers, delivering real‑time, signal‑based lead recommendations much like a personalized music playlist. The platform continuously learns both user and customer behavior, generating accurate, on‑demand prospect suggestions so salespeople can focus solely on human interaction and trust‑building. Over time, the simplicity has shifted from a clean UI to a seamless back‑end experience where users simply ask for insights and receive them instantly. Beyond product, Yoni emphasizes a transparent, low‑politics culture built on open access to metrics, monthly “Ask Me Anything” sessions, and direct, authentic communication between leadership and staff. Website: www.lusha.com LinkedIn: yonitserruya Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Anne and Mark Lackey. Entrepreneurs that has a series of ventures that each emerged from a real‑world problem they faced themselves. When a valued employee abruptly quit, they recognized the hidden cost of staff churn and the difficulty of finding reliable “drudgery” workers—people willing to handle repetitive, phone‑based tasks. Their answer was to create HireSmart Virtual Assistants. HireSmart's model combines two core services: rigorous recruiting that matches the right talent to the right role, and a one‑week certification boot‑camp that trains virtual assistants in both technical skills and cultural communication. They also act as an ongoing HR partner, handling issues that arise after placement. The result is a seamless experience for clients—calls sound as if they're coming from the U.S., tasks are completed efficiently, and companies enjoy significant cost savings. The founders also note the broader social impact: they now provide health care to thousands of Filipino families, a benefit many Fortune 500 call centers don't offer. Facebook: HireSmartVAs Anne – www.facebook.com/AnneLackey Mark – www.facebook.com/markslackey LinkedIn: Anne – www.linkedin.com/in/annelackey Mark – www.linkedin.com/in/markslackey Previous Episode: iam390-business-partners-help-businesses-scale-by-providing-top-notch-virtual-employees Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Monique “Moni” Jefferson, an active‑duty Air Force spouse and serial entrepreneur, founded Dog Tags & Heels, a virtual PR and social‑media agency that works with national and celebrity clients to build brand evangelism and social impact. Her agency focuses on deep, high‑impact connections rather than paid ad space, turning satisfied customers into brand advocates. The platform offers peer‑to‑peer mentorship, masterclasses, and a membership space for collaborators to share resources, troubleshoot challenges, and even hire fellow spouses.  Most recently, Moni introduced the Association of Military Spouse Entrepreneurs (AMSE), an influencer database that connects brands seeking authentic ties to the military community with vetted military‑spouse creators.  Website: www.monijeffersonpr.com MilSpouse Creative and Entrepreneurs: www.facebook.com/groups/themilspousecreative MilSpouse Creative: www.instagram.com/milspousecreative LinkedIn: moni-jefferson Previous Episode: iam389-serial-entrepreneur-works-with-clients-to-build-brand-evangelism-and-social-impact Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham discusses how change is inherently messy: altering one part of a business triggers a domino effect that ripples throughout the whole operation. As his original marketing company, Blue 16 Media, morphed into an umbrella brand with multiple niche services, he recognized gaps and inefficiencies that needed new solutions. Scaling back in one area led to staff turnover, prompting him to emphasize accountability—whether you're a solo practitioner, franchisee, or business owner—because doing the same thing will never produce different results. He stresses the importance of foundational fixes before sustainable growth can happen. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham outlines several parallel initiatives he's pursuing: launching a sub‑site called “Franchise CEO” within the CB Nation community, publishing video snippets on YouTube, and re‑joining a flexible BNI networking chapter that allows up to 12 missed meetings per quarter. He's also rebooting his digital‑marketing arm, experimenting with affiliate programs, high‑ticket sales, and the “CEO Hacks” series to scale relationships and revenue streams. Throughout, he emphasizes the importance of creating multiple income sources—affiliates, digital services, and franchise brokerage—to stay resilient in today's market. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham shares that he's already 290 days into his franchise‑broker venture, highlighting the everyday challenges of entrepreneurship—early mornings, fatigue, and the need for continual self‑rebooting. He describes an experiment with ChatGPT to identify ways to overhaul his business processes, acknowledging that minor tweaks aren't enough when foundational issues exist. He likens the situation to trying to replace drapes on a shaky house; the real work must start at the foundation. Moving forward, Gresh envisions a lean team structure: himself as the visionary, an integrator, and a virtual assistant to help rebuild the business step by step. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham shares what he's been doing to generate leads: cold direct messages on LinkedIn using Sales Navigator, a few automation tools (Closely), and follow‑up emails to keep contacts warm. While he's begun to see “nibbles” — small bits of traction — he admits to frustration over the limited results. Through reflection he realizes he may have been targeting the wrong audience (B2B instead of the more receptive B2C segment of people facing layoffs or career dissatisfaction) and recognizes the importance of networking and leading with empathy. Gresh wraps up by acknowledging that success comes from consistently doing the right things over time, not just repeating ineffective tactics. He sees the current outreach as planting seeds that could later grow, and commits to experimenting, learning, and taking the journey one step at a time.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Rohit Garewal, CEO of Object Edge and a veteran of 30 years solving large‑scale business problems in finance, insurance and retail. Rohit explains that every for‑profit enterprise is fundamentally trying to maximize either revenue or margin, and that the key to doing so lies in aligning people, processes and technology. His firm helps customers turn fragmented, legacy data into AI‑ready assets, then builds custom applications that embed AI into core workflows, allowing companies to continuously optimize operations rather than “start‑stop” improvement cycles. Rohit stresses the rising importance of a “business‑engineer” mindset—high IQ, high EQ, and solid technical chops—to translate strategy into concrete, data‑driven actions.  LinkedIn: rohit-garewal Website: rohit-garewal Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Carlo Castelan, founder and managing director of the Navio Group, a consulting firm that helps retail leaders transform their businesses. Carlo's work centers on partnering with brick‑and‑mortar retailers—often Fortune 1000 brands—looking to shift toward direct‑to‑consumer models or expand into new services, such as health‑care offerings. Their model emphasizes collaboration: rather than acting as a distant “black box,” They work side‑by‑side with existing teams, lifting operational burdens and helping them think long‑term while maintaining fairness and clear expectations. Website: thenaviogroup.com LinkedIn: carloscastelan Previous Episode: iam388-founder-works-with-retail-leaders-to-transform-their-business Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have John Hill, founder of Adaptive Growth, helps small teams and entrepreneurs use technology and processes to make sales repeatable. John helps capture the “instinctual” parts of their sales conversations, document them, and embed them into customized CRM workflows. By doing so, he shortens ramp‑up time, eliminates gaps between reps, and creates data‑driven pipelines that can be refined just like digital‑marketing campaigns. He reinforces these ideas on his “Sales Throwdown” podcast, where he breaks down personality‑type frameworks (e.g., DISC) and stresses the importance of building rapport, using consistent scripts, and continually testing what works. Website: adaptedgrowth.com Personal brand/blog: johnsmallmountain.com Podcast: www.salesthrowdown.com Linkedin: johnblanehill Previous Episode: iam387-founder-helps-small-teams-and-entrepreneurs-make-sales-repeatable Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham uses a vivid analogy involving his newborn son learning to crawl. He describes a recent moment at a restaurant where the baby's frustration and determination mirrored the challenges he faces as an entrepreneur juggling a newborn, a digital‑marketing business, and the launch of his franchise. He reflects on the inevitable setbacks—crying, yelling, feeling stretched thin—and emphasizes the importance of patience, honesty, and realistic expectations. By acknowledging that progress will take longer than hoped, he encourages himself (and listeners) to keep taking incremental steps, learn from each attempt, and avoid discouragement. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresh shifts to the challenges he's faced in his existing digital‑marketing and franchise‑brokerage businesses. After years of relying heavily on his own involvement, he realized the models had hit a ceiling and required major pivots. He discusses how his original target market for the brokerage didn't generate enough traction, prompting him to rethink prospecting strategies—using LinkedIn to focus on people with clear pain points, such as those affected by layoffs, and reshaping the business foundation to become more scalable and less dependent on him alone. The conversation ends with a personal metaphor: Gresh recounts training for a 10‑mile run and adopting the Galloway run‑walk method to build endurance despite limited time. He parallels this fitness adjustment with the business pivots he's making—recognizing when a current approach no longer works, breaking things down to the “studs,” and rebuilding from the ground up.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham reflects on the past year of planning, the emotional hurdle of acknowledging the time that has passed, and the excitement of welcoming a potential candidate—identified through LinkedIn—who may become his first deal. He emphasizes transparency with prospects, encouraging them to voice disinterest openly to avoid ghosting and to keep the pipeline moving efficiently. The episode highlights several practical insights: the need to target the right audience (shifting from business owners to non‑owners), the importance of addressing objections early, and leveraging data analytics backgrounds when matching candidates to franchise opportunities. Harkless notes that while progress can feel uncertain—“moving forward or backwards”—the key is constant motion.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham opens up about the internal doubts that have slowed his progress over the past two months. He wrestles with the classic “where's the payoff?” question, balancing paid lead packs against the organic social media tactics that have yielded better results for him. He also questions the “broad‑stroke” philosophy advocated by some brokers, noting that casting a wide net brings unqualified leads and dilutes focus.  Finally, Gresham commits to a step‑by‑step approach, experimenting with the new domain, building out content, and granting limited access to a partner who can help execute the plan. He emphasizes the importance of consistency, creativity, and community collaboration, promising regular updates and encouraging listeners who are builders to keep moving forward.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Kevin Surace, a prolific Silicon‑Valley innovator, inventor of the first cellular‑data phone, early AI virtual assistants, and author of The Joy Success Cycle. Kevin shares hard‑earned lessons about the true nature of the CEO role: setting tone, culture, and direction while spending most of the day handling the “crap” – unhappy customers, product glitches, personnel issues, cash flow, and missed sales targets. His broader advice for entrepreneurs is to focus on solving real problems for real people who have real money, warning against chasing vanity projects that lack market demand. Kevin believes great CEOs must have been good followers first, learning from mentors and mastering two‑way listening. While fostering consensus, a CEO must also make decisive calls to keep the business moving, because every day of inaction costs money. Website: www.kevinsurace.com LinkedIn: ksurace Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Grant Polachek,  head of branding at Squadhelp.com—a top‑rated naming platform serving over 20,000 clients ranging from early‑stage giants like Nestlé and Pepsi. Grant emphasized that effective branding sits at the intersection of copywriting, creativity, and business strategy, helping companies translate their vision into a compelling brand narrative. He outlines a simple yet powerful naming framework: start by clarifying who you are and what you aim to create (the business plan), identify your audience, decide the desired perception and tone, and then develop secondary branding elements that capture the core idea. Grant shares that their smart dashboard surfaces the four most critical naming factors, curates ideas, and delivers real‑time alerts, enabling rapid, data‑driven iterations that large companies now prefer over traditional agencies. Website: www.squadhelp.com Previous Episode: iam386-head-of-branding-helps-corporations-with-product-naming Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this throwback episode, we have Marcus Taylor, founder and CEO of Venture Harbor, a young entrepreneur who launched his digital‑innovation studio at 25 without any external funding. Starting with a love for coding and music at age 10, he merged those passions into building websites for bands and experimenting with online marketing.  Venture Harbor does not offer consulting services; instead, it maintains a portfolio of nine highly automated online ventures that are 99 % hands‑free, allowing the small core team to concentrate on creating a new venture each year. Website: www.ventureharbour.com LinkedIn: marcustaylor100 Facebook: MarcusTaylor100 Previous Episode: iam377-ceo-builds-multi-million-dollar-portfolio-of-online-businesses Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham walks listeners through his current stage: day 281 of his franchise‑broker path, experimenting with low‑cost investments to test scalability, and applying the “Who Not How” principle. He draws parallels between franchise brokering and affiliate marketing, noting that both rely on cultivating long‑term relationships that culminate in sizable purchases. Looking ahead, Harkless plans to bolster his outreach through newsletters, community‑building initiatives, and possibly leveraging existing team members as the “who” to drive growth.  With 12‑week goal frameworks focused on revenue rather than rigid tactics, he remains hopeful and committed to iterating on his strategy while inviting feedback and collaboration from his audience. Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this special episode, Gresham dives into the practical challenges he's facing, particularly around lead generation. After receiving a modest lead pack from his franchising organization, he realized that buying leads alone isn't delivering the results he wants. He's now weighing two options: partnering with a low‑cost program that offers SEO‑optimized content and running minimal‑budget Facebook ads, or taking a DIY approach to create and execute the strategy himself using the resources and team he already has. He feels torn between learning from an external expert and maintaining full control over the execution. Finally, he outlines his strategic plan to consolidate traffic and leads across multiple domains. Because some of his sites already rank well, he proposes creating a sub‑domain on the strongest site, publishing SEO‑focused content there, and funneling the resulting leads back to his broker business under a broader “umbrella” brand.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresh shares the evolution of his franchise‑building process, noting that it took roughly a year to clarify his target market and strategy. Initially, he aimed at individuals who had been laid off, but he soon realized the more lucrative audience comprises employed professionals who are silently considering additional revenue streams. He explains the financing paradox: without a steady job, securing SBA loans is tough, yet a layoff eliminates the income needed to fund a new business. Consequently, he refines his outreach to those on the brink of layoffs or actively seeking semi‑passive franchise opportunities that can coexist with a full‑time job or another venture. After a brief dip in momentum over the past three months, he recommits to a new pivot, emphasizing daily progress, continual prospecting, and creativity in securing funding.  Blue Star Franchise: bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Dave Glaser, a two‑decade pedigree in enterprise payments—from early work at CyberSource, through senior roles at WorldPay and MasterCard. Dave modernizes the decades‑old banking network and makes bank‑account payments feel as seamless as credit‑card transactions online. His focus is narrowly honed on account‑to‑account flows, supporting both “pay‑ins” (receivables) and “pay‑outs” (payables) through a digital wallet that sits between the two, enabling businesses to move money internally before routing it to external bank accounts.  Dave stresses that effective leadership starts with trust, especially vulnerability‑based trust that allows teams to admit mistakes, learn, and move forward quickly.  Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Aliza Sherman, a pioneering web entrepreneur and author, a global women‑focused health brand that clears up the confusion surrounding cannabis and CBD. After discovering that much of the industry's information was wrong, she turned a digital‑marketing prospect into a mission to educate women. Ellementa runs live events, webinars, and film screenings in over 60 North‑American cities while also serving as a “bridge” that connects reputable cannabis brands with these informed consumers, emphasizing product testing, ethics and women‑centered messaging. Aliza advises balancing business drive with personal wellbeing, relationships and staying true to one's authentic identity.  Website: www.ellementa.com LinkedIn: alizasherman  Previous Episode: iam375-web-pioneer-and-author-behind-a-global-womens-health-company Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, we have Maria Rapetskaya founder of Undefined Creative, which now boasts a nine‑year track record and a small, fully remote team of four dedicated staff. Undefined Creative specializes in motion‑graphics and end‑to‑end creative production. The firm handles everything from initial scripting and branding to sound mixing, shoot organization, and final delivery. Over time, the agency has secured high‑profile clients like A&E Networks, NHL, NBC Universal, and the United Nations, expanding from traditional TV show graphics to a broad mix of digital and event work. Maria's “secret sauce” is rooted in a lifestyle‑first philosophy: she built the company to support a relaxed, healthy work life, emphasizing low overhead, remote work, and self‑driven employees who can thrive without constant supervision.  Website: www.undefinedcreative.com www.defineyourpath.co Previous Episode: iam374-founder-leads-media-production-agency-with-a-focus-on-motion-graphics Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.    I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

In this episode, Gresham reflects on the steep learning curve of his one‑year franchise‑broker program, now 276 days in, noting that the experience has been far tougher than expected. He describes how competing priorities, imposter syndrome, and a lack of closed deals have forced him to reassess his focus.  Using a vivid gym metaphor (pushing a weighted sled), Gresham illustrates the temptation to “look up” and over‑analyze versus staying “head‑down” and grinding. He underscores that business success requires a clear why, vision, and the willingness to recalibrate goals, strategies, and revenue streams. Though the franchise venture hasn't yet yielded fruit, he remains committed to building an ecosystem of multiple income sources—digital marketing, affiliate programs, and “CEO hacks”—and promises to keep the audience updated with fresh goals and actionable moves.  Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE.  I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!