This is a B2B program that offers B2C solutions. Hosted by Steve “Starmaker” Johnson, owner of the Black Umbrella Management Group- Delaware’s premiere business development agency. Steve is called the Starmaker for the following reasons: 46% of his cli
In this episode of Only Business, we break down 10 powerful, unexpected business lessons from the film Training Day. From recognizing manipulation and handling pressure, to building real influence and avoiding ego-driven collapse, this deep-dive delivers real-world insights every small business owner needs. If you're growing a business and want to lead with clarity, strategy, and integrity — this episode is a must-listen.Perfect for entrepreneurs, consultants, and leaders navigating high-stakes decisions and complex relationships.
In this episode, we break down how loyalty, when unchecked, can quietly sabotage your growth, your peace, and your business. From underperforming staff and draining clients to outdated strategies and trauma bonds, learn how to spot the difference between genuine commitment and emotional captivity. If you have ever felt worn out by people you care about or stuck in roles you did not sign up for, this one is for you.
If you're curious about private equity but tired of all the jargon, in this episode, we break it all the way down—what private equity is, how it works, who it helps, and who it hurts. Whether you're building a business or just trying to understand the headlines, this is the clear, honest explanation you've been looking for.
If you're feeling burned out, this episode is your reset.In “You Don't Need a Break You Need a Win,” we unpack five bold and practical moves that can shift your energy, reignite your focus, and get you back in motion without waiting on perfect timing. If you've been stuck in fatigue, this is the reminder you did not know you needed. Progress is still possible, and one strategic win can change everything. Real insight, real momentum, and a real push forward all in one episode.
Feeling stuck in your business? Think again. In this episode, we break down 12 powerful signs that you're actually making real progress - even if it's not loud or flashy. From better decision-making to quiet momentum, this is your reminder that growth isn't always visible, but it's always happening. If you've been grinding without recognition, this episode will prove you're closer to your breakthrough than you realize.
Power isn't given—it's built.In this landmark 100th episode, we break down why real power isn't inclusive, why access doesn't equal authority, and what it actually takes to lead, decide, and protect what you've built.
High-ticket isn't the only way to win. In this episode, we break down how to build serious momentum through low-ticket offers that actually convert. You'll learn 10 proven rules for creating powerful entry-point products, earning trust at scale, and turning small payments into long-term profit. Whether you sell digital tools, services, or physical goods, this episode gives you the real strategy behind low-ticket success—without gimmicks, fluff, or shortcuts. If you're ready to grow your business without price-gouging your audience, this one's for you.
In this no-nonsense episode of Only Business, our host breaks down the dangerous myth that social media posting equals real marketing. Learn why consistent content doesn't guarantee customers, how to build a true marketing system that drives revenue, and what it takes to turn visibility into value. If you're tired of posting with no results, this episode will change how you approach your entire strategy.
In this episode of Only Business, The StarMaker breaks down how to read and understand a balance sheet and profit & loss statement—without the jargon. Learn how to interpret the numbers that drive your business, spot financial red flags, and make smarter decisions with confidence. Whether you're just starting out or scaling fast, this episode is your crash course in financial fluency every entrepreneur needs.
Struggling with overthinking? This episode breaks down why overthinking is costing you time, confidence, and momentum—and how to stop it. You'll learn the hidden dangers of overanalysis, how it sabotages decision-making, and five powerful steps to break the cycle and move forward with clarity and confidence. Perfect for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone tired of mental gridlock, this episode gives you the insight and tools to reclaim your focus and take action.
Why do some entrepreneurs get chosen over and over again—while others get passed up, even when they're talented? In this episode of Only Business, we break down the real reasons people say yes. You'll learn how to position your offer so it stands out, create instant trust without overselling, and become the obvious choice in any room. Whether you're struggling to land clients, tired of being overlooked, or just want to tighten your messaging, this episode gives you the exact mindset and strategy to stop chasing—and start getting picked.
Most public speaking advice is surface-level: make eye contact, speak clearly, don't say “um.” This episode throws all that out the window. In The Public Speaking Playbook, we unpack 11 advanced, real-world tactics that separate amateurs from impact-makers. You'll learn how to weaponize silence, anchor your message in rhythm, command the room with physical intent, and close with lines that echo long after the mic drops. And we're not stopping at delivery—this episode reminds you of the one thing most people forget: you actually need something worth saying. Whether you're pitching to investors, leading a team, or stepping onto your first stage, this is your blueprint for becoming unforgettable.
This episode of Only Business unpacks business lessons from Ryan Coogler's Sinners —a haunting story about leadership, silence, survival, and legacy in the face of generational harm. We draw powerful real-world parallels between the film's supernatural conflict and modern business challenges, including predatory partnerships, poor succession planning, the cost of unchecked growth, and the danger of building without boundaries.Perfect for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and changemakers navigating high-pressure environments and seeking clarity, conviction, and sustainability in their leadership.
This episode of Only Business pulls 15 deeply reflective and unexpected business lessons from Game of Thrones. We break down real-world insights on leadership under pressure, legacy-building, emotional control, loyalty, succession, and decision-making when the stakes couldn't be higher. Each point is rooted in character choices and turning points from the series—brought to life through the lens of entrepreneurship, small business, and leadership.
What The Wire reveals about power, leadership, and broken systems isn't fiction—it's a business case study in disguise.In this episode of Only Business, we unpack 10 sharp, deeply human lessons that speak directly to entrepreneurs, team builders, and leaders navigating systems that were never built for them. This isn't just about surviving dysfunction—it's about learning to lead through it, around it, and beyond it.From the silence that rots culture to the difference between impact and institutional loyalty, this episode will change the way you think about growth, legacy, and how leadership really works.If you've ever built something from the ground up without a blueprint—this one's for you.
In the final chapter of our leadership series, we uncover the real price of leadership—and the greater reward waiting beyond it. “The Crown, The Cost” challenges leaders to move beyond roles and into lasting impact. We confront the sacrifices leadership demands, the freedoms it unlocks, and the legacy it builds when done right. If you're ready to stop leading for attention and start building for generations, this episode is your blueprint.
In this episode of Only Business, we break down the high-stakes world of Breaking Bad to uncover 12 powerful business lessons that go way beyond the drug trade. From brand identity and ego management to leadership failure, systems thinking, and the hidden cost of control, this program explores how Walter White's rise and fall holds a mirror up to entrepreneurs and leaders in the real world. Whether you're scaling a business or trying to reclaim your voice in the chaos, this isn't just about what went wrong—it's about how to build with clarity, power, and purpose.
This episode explores why consistency—not perfection, charisma, or adrenaline—is the real engine of effective leadership. You'll learn how steady, reliable behavior builds trust, reinforces culture, protects clarity, earns lasting credibility, and creates a sense of personal peace. With six powerful takeaways and a practical challenge for the week, this conversation offers a clear path for leaders who want to build momentum that lasts. If you're serious about leading with integrity and impact, this episode will show you why consistency is your greatest asset.
In this episode of Only Business, nutritionist Kenneth Mitcham delivers a practical guide to staying energized, focused, and mentally sharp throughout long workdays—especially if your job keeps you sitting most of the day. From gut-friendly foods to hydration hacks and realistic meal planning, Kenneth breaks down how smart nutrition can power better decisions, sharper thinking, and sustainable energy for entrepreneurs and professionals alike. If your schedule is packed and your body feels it, this episode is your reset.
In this powerful episode of our leadership series, we focus on something that truly defines great leaders: how they carry the weight of the call. Not the call they wanted—but the one that shows up mid-crisis, when there's no script and no time to stall. We're talking clarity over comfort, presence over panic, and mission over ego. If you're building something that matters, this is the episode that helps you lead when the pressure is highest, the stakes are real, and your next move will echo far beyond the moment.
In this episode of Only Business, nutritionist Kenneth Mitcham breaks down the powerful connection between gut health and business success. If you've been feeling tired, foggy, or off your game, your gut might be the missing link. Learn how what you eat affects your focus, energy, mood, and decision-making—and how better nutrition can help you lead, build, and grow with clarity and stamina. Whether you're a business owner or entrepreneur, this is your gut check.
In this episode of Only Business, we break down exactly what's going on with the stock market as of April 7, 2025—in plain English. From rising tariffs and tech volatility to sector shifts and IPO trends, you'll get a real-time, no-fluff market update made for business owners and entrepreneurs. Learn what these market moves mean for your business, how to position yourself, and where the smart money is heading next.
In Part 2 of How to Be a Better Leader, we get into the truth most people avoid: people don't follow titles—they follow trust, clarity, and consistency. This episode unpacks how real influence is built, how to lead without a spotlight, and why respect is something you earn, not something you're handed. If you're tired of performative leadership and ready to build the kind that actually moves people—this one's for you.
In this powerful conversation, author and advocate Alexus Smith joins us to discuss her book The Invisibility of Disabilities—a raw, honest look at what it means to navigate life with challenges others can't see. We talk about unseen barriers, the weight of being misunderstood, and the responsibility leaders have to create spaces where people feel seen without having to explain themselves. This episode is about awareness, empathy, and what real inclusion looks like beyond the surface.
In Part 1 of this five-part leadership series, we break down what it really takes to lead—before the title, the spotlight, or the followers. “BEFORE YOU LEAD” challenges listeners to look inward, build discipline in private, and ask the hard question: would you follow you? If you're serious about becoming a better leader in business and in life, this is where it starts.
When you're growing a business, every financial decision counts. In this episode, we're covering the key money moves that help entrepreneurs maximize cash flow, reinvest wisely, and build a solid financial foundation. No fluff—just practical strategies to keep more of what you earn and turn today's revenue into long-term security and growth.
Inflation can squeeze profit margins and shake up even the strongest businesses—but only if you're unprepared. In this episode, we're breaking down how to protect your business from rising costs, shifting markets, and economic uncertainty. From pricing strategies to smarter spending, we'll cover real, actionable ways to stay profitable and resilient no matter what the economy throws your way.
In this episode of Only Business, we uncover the underestimated art of strategic patience—the ability to balance persistence with calculated restraint. Learn why acting at the right time is just as crucial as taking action itself and how waiting for the right opportunity can unlock greater success. We'll discuss practical strategies for managing pressure, staying focused on long-term goals, and making smarter decisions by resisting the urge to rush. Whether you're navigating sales, growth, or tough decisions, this episode will help you master the power of timing and move your business forward
In this episode of Only Business, we break down the sales funnel and show you how to optimize every stage—from attracting prospects to closing deals and beyond. Discover actionable strategies to generate qualified leads, nurture relationships, and turn interest into long-term customer loyalty. We'll explore common funnel mistakes, like neglecting the middle stages or failing to follow up, and share tips to streamline your process with automation and data-driven insights. Whether you're looking to boost conversions or refine your approach, this episode has everything you need to master your sales funnel and grow your business
In this episode of Only Business, we're breaking down one of the biggest mistakes in sales—asking “What's your budget?” If you're still using this question, you're losing deals before they even start. We'll cover why this approach destroys trust, weakens your position, and limits your earning potential, plus what to say instead to close more sales with confidence. Whether you're a business owner, freelancer, or sales professional, this episode will teach you how to lead the conversation, establish value first, and stop selling like an amateur.No fluff, no gimmicks—just real sales strategy that works.
In this episode of Only Business, we're breaking down tariffs—what they are, how they work, and why they're basically a sneaky tax you didn't even know you were paying. This isn't about politics, it's about business, money, and power dynamics that affect your wallet whether you realize it or not. We'll keep it simple, straight to the point, and show you how tariffs quietly shape everything from the price of your groceries to the cost of running a business. No fluff, no political spin—just the real story behind the numbers.
In this episode of Only Business, we explore the Hybrid Sales Approach, a game-changing strategy that combines the strengths of hunters and farmers to drive sustainable growth. Learn how to master the art of finding new clients while nurturing existing relationships, creating a balanced sales pipeline that keeps your business thriving. We break down actionable steps to optimize your strategy, avoid common pitfalls like over-hunting or over-farming, and leverage tools and data to refine your process. Whether you're a solo entrepreneur or leading a team, this episode is packed with practical insights to help you grow smarter, not harder.
In this episode of Only Business, we tackle the widespread anxiety surrounding the new presidential administration and remind listeners to refocus their energy on what truly matters: building their businesses, communities, and futures. Instead of being consumed by political noise and social media debates, this episode encourages actionable steps to create generational wealth, foster local support systems, and develop resilience regardless of who is in office. Packed with practical advice, inspiring insights, and a call to action, this episode helps listeners cut distractions, invest in their goals, and embrace their power to thrive—no matter the political landscape. Whether you're an entrepreneur, community leader, or someone seeking clarity in chaotic times, this conversation will inspire you to mind your business and win in every season.
Are you a Hunter who thrives on chasing new deals, or a Farmer who builds lasting relationships to grow your business steadily? In this episode, we break down the two amazing strategies that drive success—and show you how to leverage both for maximum impact. Discover how Hunters bring the heat with bold moves and big wins, while Farmers cultivate trust and loyalty for unstoppable growth. Whether you're looking to close the next big deal or strengthen your foundation, this episode gives you the tools to balance these styles and take your sales game to the next level. Don't miss it!
In today's program, we dive into why relying on a single revenue stream is one of the riskiest moves for any entrepreneur. Learn the secrets to smart diversification, including how to leverage your strengths, solve new problems for your existing customers, and create sustainable income sources. We also explore the dangers of over-diversification and how to stay focused while building a more resilient business. Whether you're looking to add a new product line, launch a subscription service, or create passive income, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you future-proof your business. Listen now to discover how diversification can take your revenue—and your success—to the next level!
today we discuss how to achieve recession resistance for your business in this episode. We explore practical strategies to safeguard your operations, maintain cash flow, and thrive during economic downturns. Tune in to learn how to adapt, innovate, and build a business that stands strong in any economy.
Episode Summary for “The Dark Side of Discounts” In this episode of Only Business, we're tackling a topic that many entrepreneurs overlook: The Dark Side of Discounts. While slashing prices might seem like the quickest way to attract customers, it can come with hidden costs that could hurt your business in the long run. We'll explore:• The Psychology of Discounts: Why they work, and how they can backfire.• Devaluing Your Brand: How excessive discounts can send the wrong message about your products or services.• Profit Margin Pitfalls: The financial risks of relying too heavily on discounts to drive sales.• Alternatives to Discounts: Value-adding strategies that can boost revenue without cutting prices.• When Discounts Make Sense: How to use them strategically during key moments to maximize impact. Whether you're running Black Friday promotions or considering discounts as part of your sales strategy, this episode will help you make informed decisions to protect your profits and brand reputation. Tune in to learn how to drive sales without selling yourself short!
In this special Thanksgiving episode of Only Business, we're asking the big question: What are you feeding your business? Just like a holiday meal, your business thrives on the right combination of ingredients—each one playing a vital role in its success. We'll dive into:• The Turkey: Your core product or service—the foundation of your business.• The Sides: Essential supporting elements like marketing (the mashed potatoes), sales (the mac and cheese that must be handled by someone you trust), customer service (the stuffing), team morale (the green beans), and operations (the gravy that ties it all together).• The Dessert: The customer experience—the sweet, lasting impression that keeps people coming back.• The Empty Calories: The time-wasting activities and low-value strategies you need to cut out. This episode will help you evaluate what you're serving up in your business and ensure every “dish” works together to leave your customers and team satisfied. Tune in for actionable insights, fresh perspectives, and a little food for thought as you plan for growth. Happy Thanksgiving!
In this episode of Only Business, we dive into the growing trend of entrepreneurs charging premium prices without delivering premium value. From overpriced “brands” with no clear identity to consultants offering empty promises, we challenge the mindset of “get everything, give nothing.” We explore how this approach erodes trust, alienates customers, and ultimately leads to unsustainable businesses. You'll learn the key ingredients for earning premium pricing, including delivering measurable results, building a meaningful brand story, and understanding the true value of your expertise. Whether you're setting your prices or reevaluating your offerings, this episode is a must-listen for building a business with integrity and longevity.
On this episode of Only Business, we're exploring how crypto is making waves beyond the headlines, especially for small businesses looking to gain an edge. We're breaking down the ways blockchain technology can simplify payments, slash transaction fees, and bring flexibility to everything from payroll to international transactions. We'll explore practical applications, like how small businesses can harness crypto to streamline operations, attract new customers, and even access new funding opportunities. It's not just about riding a trend—this is about transforming how business is done. If you're looking to future-proof your business and explore what crypto could mean for your bottom line, this episode is packed with real-world insights you won't want to miss.
On this episode of Only Business, we're stripping back the hype to uncover what hustle culture truly means in today's world. Is the relentless grind still the real key to success, or are we just pushing ourselves into burnout? We'll tackle the myths, explore the psychology behind the hustle mindset, and examine whether nonstop ambition propels us forward or pulls us back. This episode will challenge everything you think you know about productivity, redefining what it takes to win in business—and in life. If you're questioning the cost of the hustle, you won't want to miss this.
In this episode of Only Business, we dismantle the myth of the "self-made millionaire" and expose the invisible forces that often drive success. It's not just about hard work—it's about who you know and the networks you can access. We dive into how social capital, generational wealth, and venture capital disparities shape the paths of many successful entrepreneurs, while leaving others locked out of opportunity. With fewer than 3% of venture capital dollars going to Black and Latino founders and 70% of jobs being filled through personal connections, the system is far from a meritocracy. Join us as we challenge the narrative of self-reliance, reveal the unseen advantages behind many success stories, and offer insights on how to build and leverage your own network in a world where access is everything.
1. Debunking the Myth: We kick off the episode by dissecting the popular belief that hard work guarantees financial success, exposing the structural realities of capitalism that often prevent this from being true. 2. The Business Cycle and Its Impact: Explore how the cyclical nature of capitalism ensures that wealth is concentrated at the top while leaving many vulnerable to economic downturns, using real-world examples from the 2008 financial crisis and the COVID-19 pandemic. 3. Understanding Exploitation: Delve into the concept of exploitation as a core component of capitalism, where profit is generated by undervaluing labor. We look at the garment industry and low-wage jobs in the U.S. as case studies. 4. The Reserve Army of Labor: Learn about the ‘Reserve Army of Labor' and how the gig economy exemplifies this concept, keeping wages low and workers insecure to maintain capitalist profits. 5. The False Narrative of Laziness: We challenge the damaging stereotype that poverty is the result of laziness, exploring the historical roots of this narrative and its role in justifying economic inequality. 6. The Inevitable Presence of Poverty: Finally, we discuss why poverty is not just a byproduct but a necessary condition of capitalism, and why structural changes, not just individual effort, are needed to address this issue. Tune in for an eye-opening exploration of the forces shaping our economic landscape and how they impact all of us.
In this episode of Only Business, we dive deeper into the world of behavioral finance. Discover how understanding your psychological biases can transform the way you invest and manage money. Learn practical strategies to overcome financial barriers, improve your investment decisions, and achieve your financial goals. This is Part 2 of our series on the psychology of money—don't miss out on these powerful insights that could change your financial future. Share this episode with friends and colleagues who are ready to take control of their financial lives!
In this episode of Only Business, "The Psychology of Money," we reveal the psychological forces that shape our financial decisions. Discover how cognitive biases like overconfidence, confirmation bias, and anchoring, along with emotional triggers such as fear and greed, subtly influence our financial behavior. We provide practical strategies to recognize and counteract these biases, empowering you to make more informed, rational financial choices. Drawing on insights from behavioral finance and psychology thought leaders like Daniel Kahneman and Richard Thaler, this episode offers invaluable tools to enhance your financial well-being. Whether you're an investor, entrepreneur, or simply looking to improve your personal finances, this episode is packed with transformative insights. Don't miss out—share this episode with friends and start making smarter financial decisions today.
In this episode of Only Business, we dive into a powerful concept that can change how you see yourself and your potential: the difference between skills and gifts. Inspired by the idea that "Your skills are what you practice every day. Your gifts are what God gave you.” We explore how understanding and nurturing both can lead to a more fulfilling and impactful life.Join us as we break down what makes skills and gifts unique and share practical tips for identifying your natural talents. We'll help you reflect on your childhood passions, gather insights from those who know you best, and recognize the activities that make you lose track of time. Learn how to cultivate these gifts with intentional practice, seek out opportunities to shine, find mentors who inspire you, and commit to lifelong learning.We also cover a structured approach to developing new skills. We'll talk about setting clear goals, breaking down complex tasks, engaging in focused practice, seeking feedback, and pushing through challenges. Discover how to blend your gifts and skills to create synergy in your life and align with your greater purpose.Whether you're just beginning to explore your strengths or looking to refine and expand your abilities, this episode offers practical insights and steps to help you along the way. Tune in for a down-to-earth discussion on recognizing, nurturing, and leveraging your unique talents for personal and professional growth.
In this episode, we dive deep into the true causes of burnout, challenging the common misconception that it's solely due to excessive work. Instead, we explore how the lack of meaningful work is the real culprit. We'll discuss nine powerful strategies to prevent burnout, each uniquely designed to help you find purpose and fulfillment in your professional life. From cultivating intrinsic motivation and aligning work with personal values to fostering meaningful workplace relationships and ensuring recognition, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Regardless of whether you're a business leader or not, you'll discover practical ways to stay engaged, motivated, and energized in your career. Join us for a thoughtful and engaging conversation that will inspire you to transform your work life and prevent burnout by infusing it with purpose and meaning.
In this episode of "Only Business," we explore ten pivotal questions every entrepreneur must be prepared to answer to build a thriving business. From identifying the core problem your product solves to defining your target market and crafting a unique value proposition, we delve into the foundational elements that set successful businesses apart. Discover the keys to crafting an effective revenue model, developing a go-to-market strategy, and understanding your competition. We also cover essential metrics for measuring success, the importance of a clear business model, and the vision that drives your enterprise forward. Finally, we discuss anticipating and mitigating major risks. Tune in for actionable insights and thought-provoking advice that will inspire and guide you on your entrepreneurial journey.
This episode of "Only Business" tackles the challenge of scaling your consulting business. We break down effective strategies for growth, from leveraging technology and automating processes to expanding your client base through strategic marketing and partnerships. Learn how to manage the complexities of scaling, including hiring the right team and maintaining quality of service. Whether you're looking to expand locally or globally, this episode is packed with actionable advice. Keen to elevate your consulting business to new heights? Press play on "Only Business" and start your journey to scale up today.
In this episode of "Only Business," we delve into the key steps for launching a successful consulting business. We explore how to pinpoint your niche, gauge market demand, establish your business infrastructure, and strategically price your services. Moreover, we emphasize the significance of cultivating a robust network and establishing a strong online presence to allure clients. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for both experienced professionals embarking on an independent journey and newcomers eager to make their mark in the consulting realm. Ready to transform your consulting vision into reality? Tune in now and take the first step towards building your consulting empire with "Only Business."
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