Escape Artist Podcast

In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mike Balstad, a certified exit planning advisor and the founder of BizLeavable. Mike shares his journey into the financial industry, driven by a personal experience of a family member's preventable business failure. This experience ignited his passion for helping small business owners navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Mike dives into the importance of "starting with the end in mind" when it comes to business planning. Listen as he shares his 6-part framework to gain clarity on your values, strengths, and desired outcomes, so you can have a successful business venture. Mike also highlights the significance of aligning personal values with business decisions, emphasizing the impact of culture, customer experience, and employee engagement on overall business success. He stressed the importance of clear communication, both in personal relationships and within business operations, to avoid misunderstandings and foster a positive work environment. We also chat about the challenges of employee turnover, the value of strategic planning, and the impact of social capital on business growth. By encouraging listeners to seek feedback from trusted individuals and to be honest about their strengths and preferences, Mike provided practical advice for individuals looking to transition from traditional employment to entrepreneurship.    Timestamps:  00:05:30 - Mike's personal journey and career transition 00:10:35 - Importance of knowing strengths and weaknesses 00:13:18 - Discussion on purpose, passion, and values 00:17:11 - Mike's unique path into finance and exit planning 00:20:37 - Overview of the exit planning industry and market trends 00:28:43 - Starting with the end in mind and the importance of planning 00:32:28 - Factors to consider in personal and business alignment 00:36:57 - Impact of culture and values on business success 00:42:28 - Identifying personal powers and preferences 00:45:37 - Writing a perfect job description and seeking feedback  

I had the pleasure of chatting with my friend Mike Blankenship, a talented content writer and entrepreneur. Mike shared his incredible journey of transitioning from a full-time job to working for himself and embracing a new lifestyle in Portugal with his family. We talked about Mike's escape artist mentality, elaborating on how he made the bold decision to move to Portugal for a better quality of life. Mike shared the challenges and joys of relocating with a young child and the excitement of exploring a new country. We also explored Mike's professional work, including his role as a content writer for ClickFunnels and his innovative new offer focused on Instagram growth through scripted content. Mike's insights into the power of short-form video content and the importance of taking action and seeking rejection were truly inspiring. The conversation took an unexpected turn as we discussed personality assessments like the Enneagram and Myers Briggs, adding a fun and insightful element to our discussion. Overall, this episode is a testament to the power of embracing change, taking risks, and finding joy in new adventures. Mike's story is a reminder that stepping out of your comfort zone can lead to incredible growth and fulfillment. Tune in to hear more about Mike's journey and the valuable lessons he has learned along the way.

Hello, Escape Artists! In this episode, I continued with the topic of Building Your Email List with PART TWO! This week, I discuss various strategies to drive traffic to your lead magnet and grow your email list effectively. There are 4 different traffic methods that I cover, some are "long game" and some can give you quick wins. What's your favorite traffic method? To grab your FREE list building checklist, visit: https://www.sidehustlelaura.com/yfel For a free 14-day trial of ClickFunnels, visit: https://builder.salesfunnelslaunchpad.com/?aff=d1dc01c6-f522-42bd-aec3-00406726b1d8-1WzEwLDIxM10b

In this episode of Escape Artist, Laura Demetrious walks us through the foundational phase of building an email list from scratch. I decided to switch up the format for the next couple of weeks to focus on a crucial topic for entrepreneurs - building an email list. In this solo episode, I discussed the importance of owning your audience through email marketing, as opposed to relying solely on social media platforms with ever-changing algorithms. I emphasized the significance of creating a landing page to collect leads and provided insights on driving traffic to grow the email list. I highlighted the key elements of an effective landing page, such as a compelling headline, engaging copy, a clear call to action, social proof, and visual consistency with your brand. I also teased upcoming tutorials on creating landing pages and shared my plans to delve deeper into driving traffic and converting leads in the next episode. Overall, the episode served as a foundational guide for entrepreneurs looking to build and grow their email list successfully. Happy list building!

In this episode, I had the pleasure of sitting down with Ryan McCrary, a seasoned funnel builder and the mastermind behind The Funnel Doctor Agency. Ryan shared his journey from a finance background to diving headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship and digital marketing. His transition into funnel building was a result of the necessity to generate income as an entrepreneur, leading him to discover the power of funnels, advertising, and lead magnets. Ryan's expertise in funnel building and paid ads shines through as he delves into the importance of consistency in business and the need for a viable product or service before implementing a funnel strategy. He emphasizes the significance of building a list and generating leads consistently to lay a strong foundation for successful marketing campaigns. The conversation also touches on Ryan's foray into speaking engagements, where he shares insights on creating million-dollar Facebook ad campaigns and the key role of consistency in achieving marketing success. Ryan's ability to tailor his funnel strategies to various industries, such as the travel and therapist niches, showcases his adaptability and expertise in catering to specific client needs. Ryan's passion for helping businesses thrive through effective funnel building strategies shines through. His advice to focus on lead generation and building a strong list resonates as a fundamental step for any business looking to leverage the power of funnels and digital marketing. Check out Ryan on social media and explore The Funnel Doctor Agency's website to take a deeper look into the world of funnel building and digital marketing. Ryan's wealth of knowledge and experience make him a valuable resource for businesses looking to elevate their marketing strategies and drive success through effective funnel implementation. Website: https://thefunneldoctoragency.com/

In this episode of Escape Artist, I had the pleasure of interviewing my friend Eric Moeller, the founder of Freewyld, a brand redefining short-term rental hospitality. Eric shared his journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, highlighting the pivotal moments and challenges he faced along the way. We jump into Eric's background in real estate and his transition from running an online educational business to founding Freewyld. Eric's passion for creating meaningful and intentional travel experiences was evident as he discussed the inspiration behind his brand and the unique concept of "wild mode" to help guests disconnect from technology and reconnect with nature. Throughout the conversation, Eric chats about the importance of community and connection, both in personal relationships and in business. He shared insights on the value of surrounding oneself with like-minded individuals and the impact of leading and participating in communities. The episode also touched on the significance of prioritizing personal values and fulfillment over financial success. Eric's journey exemplified the courage and introspection required to pursue one's passions and create a business aligned with one's true purpose. Listeners were encouraged to visit the Freewyld website to explore the nature-inspired properties and experience the transformative concept of "wild mode." The episode concluded with a message of inspiration and admiration for Eric's bravery and dedication to building a business that fosters genuine connections and meaningful experiences.

In this episode of Escape Artist, I had the pleasure of interviewing Mitch Matthews, a renowned success coach, speaker, and entrepreneur. Mitch shared his inspiring journey of breaking free from the corporate nine-to-five grind to pursue his passion for coaching and encouraging others. Mitch's story began in the pharmaceutical industry, where he excelled in sales and corporate training. However, a promotion led him to a role that didn't align with his true calling, prompting him to seek a new path. Through introspection and reflection on his past passions, Mitch discovered his love for coaching, mentoring, and developing people. As Mitch transitioned into the coaching world, he faced challenges and setbacks, including a lack of business training in his initial coaching program. Despite these obstacles, he persevered, experimented, and eventually found success by developing a unique approach to coaching and business building. Mitch chats about the importance of self-assessment and experimentation for aspiring coaches and entrepreneurs. He shared valuable insights on the coaching predictability of success assessment (CPSA) that he developed to help individuals determine their suitability for coaching. Mitch also highlighted the significance of embracing one's natural gifts and passions, urging listeners to value their unique abilities. Throughout the conversation, Mitch's genuine passion for encouraging others shone through, inspiring listeners to pursue their dreams and take bold steps towards creating a fulfilling life. His practical advice and encouragement resonated with the audience, reinforcing the idea that clarity, intentionality, and commitment are key to achieving success in any endeavor. You can check out Mitch's website at www.mitchmatthews.com to explore resources, including the CPSA assessment, and to connect with him for further guidance on their coaching and entrepreneurial journey. 

Welcome to another exciting episode of Escape Artist! In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Brandy Jones, a social media expert who has successfully transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. Brandy shares her inspiring journey of breaking free from the traditional nine-to-five grind to pursue her passion for social media. Brandy's story is one of resilience, determination, and triumph. She started her entrepreneurial journey while working multiple jobs, including managing a restaurant and working in the marketing industry. Despite facing challenges and juggling various roles, Brandy's entrepreneurial spirit shone through as she navigated the ups and downs of building her own business. One key takeaway from Brandy's journey is the importance of client success stories and retention rates. By focusing on delivering exceptional results for her clients and maintaining long-term relationships, Brandy has built a strong reputation in the industry. She emphasizes the value of genuine connections, human engagement, and storytelling in social media marketing. Throughout the episode, Brandy shares valuable insights on how to leverage social media effectively, emphasizing the need for authenticity, purpose-driven content, and consistent engagement. She highlights the power of networking, referrals, and client testimonials in growing a successful social media business. Listeners are encouraged to prioritize human connection, meaningful interactions, and genuine engagement on social media platforms. Brandy's advice resonates with the core essence of social media – connecting with others authentically and building relationships that drive business success. Join us on this enlightening journey with Brandy Jones as we explore the transformative power of social media, entrepreneurship, and the pursuit of personal and financial freedom. Tune in to learn actionable strategies for enhancing your social media presence and creating a thriving online business. Let's escape the confines of the traditional work environment and design the life we've always dreamed of.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with my good friend Lisa Zelenak, a seasoned sales coach and entrepreneur. We discussed Lisa's journey of leaving her 9-5 job to pursue her passion for helping others and creating impactful transformations. Lisa shared her background, starting from her college days when she founded a nonprofit organization, showcasing her initial courage to step into the unknown. This pivotal moment set the stage for her future endeavors in business and coaching. We discussed the importance of facing fears and embracing courage to pursue what truly matters. The conversation then shifted to the concept of transformation and how it plays a significant role in Lisa's coaching and business ventures. Lisa emphasized the power of listening to people's needs and providing value through transformational experiences. We explored the idea of standing for something rather than focusing on a specific niche or purpose, highlighting the importance of authenticity and relatability in business. Lisa also shared insights into her latest project, Startup Miami, a physical space designed to foster creativity, collaboration, and growth for entrepreneurs. She discussed her vision for expanding the space into multiple floors and incubators, aiming to revolutionize the way business is conducted and bring about positive change in the entrepreneurial landscape. Throughout the episode, Lisa's passion for helping others and creating meaningful transformations shone through. Her dedication to listening, understanding, and serving people was evident in her approach to coaching and business. Listeners were encouraged to embrace their fears, stand for something meaningful, and focus on impact and transformation in their entrepreneurial endeavors. To learn more about Lisa Zelenak and her work, listeners can connect with her on Instagram at Lisa.Zelenak or follow Startup Miami for updates on her latest projects and initiatives. This episode served as a reminder to show up imperfectly, embrace transformation, and make a difference in the lives of others.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Don Mamone, a speaker, identity coach, and diversity consultant. Don shared their journey of self-discovery and embracing their authentic self, particularly in terms of their non-binary identity. Their story is one of courage, self-acceptance, and empowerment, as they navigated the challenges of coming out and finding their true identity. Don highlighted the importance of unearthing one's identity and recognizing the potential for creating a greater impact by being true to oneself. They emphasized the significance of authenticity in both personal and professional settings, sharing insights on how being genuine can lead to greater connections and opportunities. Throughout the conversation, Don shared personal anecdotes and experiences, illustrating the transformative power of embracing one's true self. They discussed the process of acknowledging, accepting, embracing, and owning one's identity, offering a four-step framework for individuals seeking to overcome internal conflicts and live authentically. Don also touched on the impact of authenticity in business, emphasizing the value of aligning one's personal brand with their authentic identity. They highlighted the importance of being true to oneself in professional settings, as it can lead to differentiation, stronger connections with clients, and a more fulfilling career. Listeners were encouraged to explore their own identities, confront internal conflicts, and embrace their uniqueness. Don shared insights on how individuals can navigate challenges in their careers, advocating for authenticity and self-love as key drivers of personal and professional success.

In this episode, I am joined by Mila Markson, a remarkable individual who transitioned from being a nanny to achieving seven figures through her successful affiliate and digital marketing business.  Mila shares her story of initially aspiring to the American dream of a stable job and income when she moved to the U.S. from Brazil, but eventually realized it wasn't for her and she wanted more for her life. She highlights the challenges she faced, including language barriers and lack of experience, which led her to explore online opportunities. Through dedication and perseverance, Mila found success in affiliate marketing, leading to significant financial growth and the ability to retire her husband from his corporate job. She also discusses the importance of having a strong "why" behind your actions and the determination to overcome obstacles. Mila's journey took off when she started creating organic content on Instagram, which became her primary platform for reaching her audience. She discussed the pivotal moment when she realized her business was thriving and the impact of consistent testing and learning in her success. After seeing success in the affiliate marketing space, Mila began to create her own program called Millionaire Wealth Academy. She emphasized the value of focusing on one business model, product, and platform to achieve success before expanding into other areas. Throughout the episode, Mila's authenticity, approachability, and dedication to sharing her knowledge shine through. Her advice to aspiring entrepreneurs is to take action, focus on a single goal, and let your "why" drive you forward.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Danny Walsh, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 25 years of experience in the online business space. Danny's approach to business is rooted in putting people first and focusing on helping others. Danny shares a bit about his background, growing up in a deprived area in England, to starting a music business and later transitioning into entrepreneurship. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, Danny's unwavering desire to help others has been a driving force in his career. One key takeaway from our conversation was the importance of asking for what you want. Danny shared a poignant story about a friend who struggled to ask for help, ultimately leading to a tragic outcome. This served as a powerful reminder of the impact of not speaking up and seeking support when needed. We discuss the significance of giving value to others and how it can lead to meaningful connections and opportunities.  Throughout the episode, Danny's message of focusing on people, values, and the power of asking resonated deeply. His hat, emblazoned with the words "Wealth is of the heart and mind, not of the pocket," encapsulates his philosophy of prioritizing relationships and making a positive impact. You can connect with Danny on Facebook at facebook.com/DannyWalshMarketing, seek advice, and explore opportunities for collaboration. The episode concluded with a call to action for individuals to reflect on their values, prioritize helping others, and embrace the power of asking for what they need.   Start your journey of digital marketing at https://www.sidehustlelaura.com/dwa   Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:03:51 - Overcoming Setbacks and Building Resilience 00:09:15 - Importance of Vision, Mission, and Core Values 00:14:42 - Monetizing and Providing Value 00:19:43 - The Power of Asking 00:24:30 - Real-Life Takeaway: The Importance of Asking 00:28:49 - Receiving and Acting on Quality Advice 00:29:16 - Closing Thoughts and Contact Information

In today's episode, I have the honor of interviewing Hannah Schneider, a successful PR professional and entrepreneur. Hannah shares her journey from working in the hospitality industry in New York to founding her own luxury PR agency, BRND HOUSE, in Nashville, TN. She discusses the importance of excellent service, client retention, the evolution of her management style, and what goes into building a business that is worth acquisition.  She shares her experiences working in the hospitality industry, which laid the foundation for her approach to client service. She emphasized the importance of anticipating client needs and providing top-notch service, drawing parallels between her time in restaurants and her work in PR. Hannah also opens her heart to share the challenges of balancing motherhood with entrepreneurship and how having her daughter has caused a shift in her empathy and the way she manages her staff. Hannah's story serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the importance of resilience, adaptability, and prioritizing personal well-being in the fast-paced world of business. As Hannah navigates her new role post-acquisition, she reflects on the value of being a supportive team player and the importance of embracing change and growth. She encourages listeners to explore their passions, take risks, and not be afraid of failure in the entrepreneurial journey.      Timestamps:  00:00:02 - Introduction to Hannah Schneider and her background in PR 00:05:30 - Importance of client retention and service in PR agencies 00:10:17 - Hannah's journey of being an entrepreneur and a mother 00:14:15 - Balancing work and personal life as a mother and entrepreneur 00:20:39 - Hannah's experience of selling her coffee shop, Kettner Coffee Supply 00:25:20 - Hannah's journey of being acquired and transitioning to a new role 00:30:53 - Hannah's perspective on being a number two or number three in a business 00:35:42 - Discussing the challenges and realities of entrepreneurship and failure 00:37:42 - Reflection on the impact of being acquired on work-life balance and personal life

In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with James Curran, a linchpin funnel expert and former software developer who transitioned from the corporate world to entrepreneurship after working numerous top-tier corporate jobs. Despite feeling disheartened by winding up at a call center job out of college, James discovered his knack for technology and eventually became a software developer. He delved into the challenges of climbing the corporate ladder and the pivotal moment that led him to leave the daily 9 to 5 grind. James candidly shares his struggles with fear and uncertainty about venturing into entrepreneurship. He talks about the importance of taking risks, failing, and learning from those experiences. His supportive wife played a significant role in encouraging him to pursue his dreams and embrace independence. As James transitioned into helping entrepreneurs create linchpin funnels, he explained the concept of recurring value and the benefits of subscription-based services and continuity programs. He also highlights the importance of creating content consistently and building a strong online presence to attract clients organically.   Timestamps:  00:00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:05:30 - Transition to Leaving the 9 to 5 Job 00:08:13 - Overcoming Fear of Failure 00:11:16 - Realization of Lack of Guarantees in Employment 00:12:16 - Current Role in Helping Businesses 00:13:24 - Applying the Linchpin Concept to Businesses 00:14:45 - Ideal Dream Client 00:16:25 - Appreciation for Providing Value 00:18:06 - Advice for Leaving a 9 to 5 Job 00:20:45 - Where to Follow James Curran

Hey there, Escape Artists! Welcome to the very first episode of Escape Artist Podcast. I'm your host, Laura Demetrious, and I am beyond thrilled to kick off this journey with you all. In this episode, I share a bit about my background as a digital marketer with over 15 years of experience, working for various entrepreneurs and businesses. I've always been a doer, starting with teaching dance at a young age to support my passion for dancing. I open up about how my self-worth was deeply tied to my job, and how losing a job I loved due to a company restructure was a turning point for me. It made me realize that I didn't have to keep proving myself to others and that I had the courage and skills to launch my own business. This realization led me to start Escape Artist Podcast, a platform where I aim to inspire and motivate listeners to pursue their passions and break free from the traditional nine-to-five mindset. Throughout the episode, I explore the importance of self-worth beyond work and shared my goals for the podcast. I want listeners to feel encouraged, inspired, and excited about the possibilities of creating a life they love.  Listeners can expect to hear from successful entrepreneurs, musicians, artists, and dreamers who have taken the leap to follow their passions. I hope that their stories will inspire others to do the same and realize that they, too, can achieve their dreams. To stay connected, listeners can visit www.sidehustlelaura.com/podcast to submit feedback, requests, or questions. They can also connect with me on social media platforms like Instagram and Facebook, as well as follow Escape Artist Podcast Instagram page for updates and clips from upcoming episodes. I am incredibly grateful for all of you who are tuning in and embarking on this journey with me. Thank you for your support, and I can't wait to share more inspiring stories and insights with you in the episodes to come. Stay tuned for next week's episode, and until then, keep dreaming, keep believing, and keep breaking free. Thank you, and see you next time on Escape Artist Podcast!   Timestamps:  00:00:01 - Introduction to Escape Artist Podcast 00:05:30 - Reflecting on Job Loss and Emotions 00:08:18 - Launching Escape Artist Podcast 00:10:03 - What to Expect from Escape Artist Podcast