Inside the Lion's Den: A Business and Leadership Podcast

This episode offers valuable lessons for aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, and anyone interested in the publishing industry. Miriam's story demonstrates how passion, perseverance, and a willingness to learn can transform a personal mission into a thriving business that impacts countless lives. Miriam candidly shares the challenges and triumphs of both self-publishing and traditional publishing, offering valuable insights for aspiring authors. She explains how her speaking engagements at schools evolved into a thriving business, eventually leading to the creation of her own publishing company. In this episode, we'll cover: How personal experiences can be powerful motivators for creating impactful children's literature Setting ambitious goals and surrounding yourself with like-minded individuals can lead to unexpected opportunities Both self-publishing and traditional publishing have pros and cons; authors should carefully consider their options Marketing is crucial for book success, regardless of the publishing path chosen Quality content is essential for creating children's books that resonate with young readers and their parents SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode89 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

In this engaging episode, Aryeh sits down with Samantha Skelly, founder of Pause Breathwork. The conversation weaves through Samantha's entrepreneurial journey, from her early days of making jewelry to becoming a leader in the breathwork industry. Samantha shares her fascinating story of discovering breathwork in Bali, which led to healing her own eating disorder and eventually creating a successful business. She discusses the challenges and triumphs of building an app, emphasizing the importance of having a clear vision and the right team. The episode takes an intriguing turn as Samantha explains her role as a "spiritual strategist," bridging the gap between traditional business practices and energy-based approaches. She provides insights into how breathwork can benefit even the most logic-driven entrepreneurs, helping them manage stress and gain new perspectives. Listeners will find valuable lessons on hiring, scaling a business, and the power of intuition in decision-making. Samantha's unique blend of business acumen and spiritual awareness offers a fresh take on entrepreneurship and personal development. The conversation concludes with information about the Pause Breathwork app, which offers customizable breathwork sessions for various needs, from stress relief to better sleep. In this episode, we'll cover: How entrepreneurship often stems from either inspiration or pain, with many driven by the need to prove themselves Having a clear vision is crucial when developing products or services, especially in tech When intuition can be a powerful tool in hiring and decision-making How breathwork can be a valuable tool for managing stress and gaining new perspectives in business When bridging the gap between traditional business practices and energy-based approaches can lead to unique insights and opportunities for growth SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode88   CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Adrian Koehler, the founder of Take New Ground, shares his journey from nursing to leadership coaching in this engaging interview. He explains how his experiences in healthcare, spiritual communities, and philanthropic work shaped his approach to coaching entrepreneurs and business leaders. Adrian's unique background, which includes working with prison inmates and trust fund kids, gave him valuable insights into human behavior and personal growth. Throughout the conversation, Adrian emphasizes the importance of key leadership qualities such as personal responsibility, adaptability, and the ability to ask for help. He stresses that great leaders need to be both confident in their opinions and open to feedback. Adrian also highlights the importance of creating a work environment where team members feel valued and can grow personally and professionally. He suggests that retaining top talent is about ensuring that working with you helps people become the best version of themselves. In this episode, we'll cover: -Adrian Koehler's journey from nursing to leadership coaching -The importance of personal responsibility for entrepreneurs -Balancing confidence with openness to feedback as a leader -Focusing on results and reality rather than intentions -The power of storytelling in leadership and business -Creating a work environment that fosters personal growth -A three-part feedback method to giving and receiving effective feedback -The "Revenant process" - a leadership deep dive retreat SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode87 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram: @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Shaun's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and adaptability. He shares how he navigated the ups and downs of his career, from losing a promising internship during the dotcom crash to building and selling successful businesses. His candid reflections on past mistakes and learning experiences offer valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. The episode dives into the entrepreneurial journey of Shaun Clark, CEO and co-founder of HighLevel Software, as we explore Shaun's path from his early ventures to the creation of HighLevel, a CRM and marketing automation platform. Shaun discusses how they identified an underserved market - marketing agencies - and built a solution tailored to their needs. He emphasizes the importance of listening to customers and letting them drive product development, a strategy that has been key to HighLevel's success. In this episode, we'll cover: Adaptability is crucial: Shaun's success came from pivoting when initial ideas didn't work, always being open to new opportunities. Customer-driven development: HighLevel's growth is attributed to closely listening to customers and building features they actually need. Strategic investment: Even when profitable, taking on outside investment can provide valuable expertise and position a company for future growth. Maintain company culture: As the company grew, Shaun found it better to nurture existing talent rather than always bringing in experienced outsiders who might not fit the culture. Empowering others: Shaun finds fulfillment in helping small businesses and entrepreneurs achieve their goals, which drives HighLevel's mission. For listeners interested in entrepreneurship, software development, or building customer-centric businesses, this episode offers a wealth of practical advice and inspiration. Whether you're just starting out or looking to scale your business, Shaun Clark's journey and insights provide valuable food for thought. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode86   CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Get ready to step into a world where creativity reigns supreme and the hustle never stops. Today I'm talking to Adley, a one-of-a-kind content creator turned business maven, as she shares her incredible journey from facing the mic on The Voice to masterminding a digital empire. We discuss the highs and lows of transitioning from the glitter of the entertainment industry to the grip of content creation and business strategy. With a knack for storytelling that captivates, Adley offers up a play-by-play of the strategies that catapulted her content to hundreds of millions of views weekly. Our discussion uncovers the profound lessons learned on this journey and the relentless passion she has for empowering creators. You'll learn the importance of understanding platform trends and analytics as Adley breaks down the critical aspects of social media success. It's all about knowing the numbers. Whether you're a content creator, marketer, or entrepreneur, this episode is a reservoir of insights for anyone aspiring to master the art of virality while leading with authenticity. Adley's story is a testament to finding your path and thriving in the joy of creation. Tune in to explore the essential role of authenticity, perseverance, and fulfillment in building a life, not just a living. In this episode, we'll cover: -Challenges faced in learning the ropes of running a business -The importance of making viral videos while providing brand solutions -Utilizing platform trends for business growth -Importance of analytics in ensuring quick pivots to emerging trends -Adley's experiences with multiple business ventures and delegation -Transition from the music industry to video content creation SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode85 Listen to, Episode 75: The Psychology Behind Disappointment and How to Combat Negativity Bias in Your Life and Business CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Today we have an incredibly timely and educational show lined up for you with Kathy Stokes, the director of fraud prevention programs at AARP. Our conversation unfolds with a personal touch as I share a recent experience where my digital wallet was hacked. Kathy offers a powerhouse of insights, stressing the importance of reporting such incidents to potentially recover stolen funds through blockchain tracing and tying together cases against transnational criminal enterprises. We talk about the emotional impact of being scammed, the technical sophistication of these fraudulent scripts, and the general population's lack of confidence in law enforcement's current ability to tackle these evolving crimes. She emphasizes on the necessity of better training in organizations to combat phishing and social engineering, laying out the three key factors scammers exploit: unexpected communication, emotional manipulation, and urgency. Kathy isn't shy about diving into how transnational criminal enterprises might be behind this massive-scale fraud, revealing her passion for social change sparked by a shift from educating workers on retirement benefits to fraud prevention for retirees. Tune in as we navigate the real implications of falling prey to scams and why awareness is the best defense. In this episode, we'll cover: -The rise in reported losses due to fraud, especially during the pandemic -The necessity of educating young adults, parents, and retirees on fraud prevention -The association of large-scale fraud with transnational criminal enterprises -The role of emotional manipulation in successful fraud schemes -The psychological tactics exploited by scammers -Impact of fraud on mental health and the extreme distress leading to suicide -AARP's commitment to providing support for victims of fraud and financial crimes SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode84 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram: @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Today we have an insightful conversation on entrepreneurship and networking with Keaton Hoskins, also known as "the muscle" from the Diesel Brothers and founder of Limitless Society! Together, we explore the raw truths of starting and running a business, emphasizing the vital role of networking and the sometimes overlooked value of paying for invaluable experiences. We shed light on the glamorized image of entrepreneurship, discussing the unseen hard work and the shift away from the traditional path to success. Keaton opened up about his journey, starting at 21 after a family loss, refusing a life on someone else's terms. His belief is slightly controversial but honest: entrepreneurship is innate for some, like athleticism, yet, with grit and determination, even the less predisposed can pave their path to entrepreneurial success. Keaton redefines networking by emphasizing a value-first approach, where transactions are not the goal. He believes listeners should bring value without expecting immediate returns, which helps to establish meaningful relationships. Get ready for an eye-opening and inspiring conversation on what it truly takes to thrive in the world of entrepreneurship. In this episode, we'll cover: -The importance of providing value without expecting anything in return -Personal experiences in building relationships through offering value -Being willing to pay for valuable relationships and experiences -The benefit of overpaying, tipping well, and adding value to others -How the traditional education system is not a great fit for everyone -The unseen hard work behind the glamorization of entrepreneurship on social media SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode083 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram: @aryehthebusinssman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program https://solutionadvisory.com

How did Amanda's experience at The Knot shape her understanding of business and leadership? In this episode, we're joined by guest Amanda Goetz to delve into her fascinating journey from corporate executive to startup founder to content creator. Together, we explore topics such as the emotional aspects of exiting a company, building a personal brand, and the importance of showing up and making connections. Join us as we uncover valuable insights and learn how Amanda's diverse career path has shaped her approach to entrepreneurship and content creation. This episode isn't just about career journeys and content creation; it's about personal growth, resilience, and the complexities of decision-making. From navigating internal struggles to seizing opportunities, we uncover profound insights that resonate with aspiring entrepreneurs and content creators alike. In this episode, we'll cover: -Transition from corporate job to managing the brand for a celebrity wedding planner -Importance of surrounding oneself with experienced individuals and investors who support both business and personal well-being -Experience with anxiety and alcohol leading to exploring high-quality CBD products -Significance of showing up, taking up space, and putting oneself out there -Encouragement for building a personal brand leading to more opportunities and financial gain -Importance of consistency and reliability in one's relationship with oneself SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode82 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Let's talk about DECLUTTERING! In this episode, we had the insightful Katy Wells on as a guest, and we delved deep into the psychological and practical aspects of decluttering. Katy shares personal experiences that led her to a career in decluttering, including managing chiropractic clinics and overcoming burnout. Together, we explore the parallels between decluttering our physical spaces and decluttering our lives, touching on the psychological aspects and the transformative power of letting go. Join us as we uncover the hidden costs of clutter and the liberating effects of simplifying our surroundings. In this episode, we'll cover: -Unraveling the links between clutter and business success -How addressing superficial clutter alone does not lead to long-term results -Contrasting views on minimalism and sentimental attachment to items -How decluttering leads to reduced anxiety, more quality time, and renewed passion -The high cost of clutter in terms of time, energy, and mental health -The connection between decluttering our personal lives and improved business performance SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode81 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program  

Today I had a great conversation with Cameron Herold, the founder of COO (Chief Operating Officer) Alliance. There was so much I wanted to talk to Cameron about that we just jumped right into it and Cameron shared some great advice and insight on what a COO's role is and considerations to make when hiring a COO (or other senior team members) for your business. When Cameron started COO Alliance he had worked has a COO for several years (and been quite successful at it) and thought he had a good understanding of the ins and outs of a COO's role. Since starting COO Alliance, his understanding of what a good COO does has changed drastically. This episode isn't just for those of you who are already working with a COO or wanting to hire one. In our conversation, Cameron shared in depth about hiring and training good leaders in your business, even if they're not specifically going to be a COO. This episode is full of direction and tips for anyone working with or looking to hire new senior team members. Cameron talked about hiring and finding a COO for your business and the things you need to understanding regarding your businesses before hiring new team members. He also shared in-depth about how to actually train good leaders within your company and how this is an area where he sees many companies fall short. The majority of our conversation was spent on this idea of training good leaders and how focusing energy on doing that will reap enormous benefits for your business. In this episode, we'll cover: -What the COO Alliance is and how it began -What you need to know before hiring a COO for your business -Considering the unique season and needs of your business -Hiring someone who fits skill-wise and culture-wise -When being a generalist is better than being an “expert” -How to find the right COO once you're ready to hire one -How to actually train good leaders -Teaching people how to do their jobs properly (because they probably don't realize they aren't) -Teaching your leaders to lead -Getting the highest return on investment on your business' people, time, and money -What companies can learn from football players and elite navy seals -Growing people will grow your business -The real role of a COO -Giving people the critical few things instead of the important many things SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode80 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Today I'm talking to Tom Reber, the founder of the contractor fight. Tom works with people specifically in the contractor space to be more profitable and grow their businesses, but the advice he shares is applicable across all industries. Tom and I had a great conversation about the behind the scenes of running a profitable business, what it looks like to master financial intelligence around your business, and what you can do on a daily basis to take your business from ordinary to extraordinary. In Tom's experience, one of the major mistakes that many people in the business world make is not doing the math and being confident in their numbers. When determining what to charge for a product or service, many people are looking at the “going rate” and using that as a measure for pricing their own products, but not actually sitting down and doing the calculations on what their business is actually worth and what they need to make in order to thrive. Tom also emphasizes the need for getting your priorities straight in your business and putting in the work to grow and become a better business owner so that you can take your business to new levels. Finally, Tom shared the one question that he asks himself before talking to any customer, prospect, employee, or vendor and how asking that one simple question can immediately differentiate your business from anyone else doing what you do. If you're intrigued by that, take a listen, and no matter what type of business you find yourself in, I know you'll find Tom's advice and expertise both relevant and applicable. In this episode, we'll cover: -Tom's background and how he got to where he is today -The first step to making what you're worth -Why you need to do the math and be confident in your numbers -The mind shift that needs to happen when you start a business -Why the “going rate” shouldn't determine the pricing for your business -The importance of investing in yourself and what that looks like -Getting your priorities straight -Why “winning” in business can be a dangerous place to be -You need to figure out your non-negotiables -The law of attraction - how you talk about your business matters -How to immediately differentiate yourself from other businesses -The one question you need to be asking yourself SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode79 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom Join me inside: Solution Advisory: Investment for Wealth Coaching Program

Today I sat down an interviewed Dan Meadors who has been a friend of mine for close to a decade. Dan is a successful Amazon seller and the co-founder of The Wholesale Formula. Dan is a self-proclaimed “side-hustle guy” and his business journey over the past few years is full of big mistakes but also big wins. Even if you're not interested in selling on Amazon, Dan's story is sure to inspire you to look at your problems as opportunities for growth, creative thinking, and opportunity. Dan started selling with Amazon in 2011 while working full time at a gaming company. After being fired from his job, he had the choice to look for another job or pursue Amazon selling full time. He chose to focus solely on Amazon. Dan ended up getting lucky with one of the products he was selling but as competition for the product grew, Dan came to the realization that other sellers were doing a much better job than he was and what had started out as a lucky break turned into a “catastrophic mess”. Luckily, Dan is a creative thinker and really made the best of some stressful situations by thinking outside of the box and avoiding colossal losses. In our conversation, Dan shared some of the creative solutions he came up with to some of the stressful situations he found himself in and how each mistake ultimately led to opportunity and growth in his business. Eventually Dan came up with a new approach for selling on Amazon and this approach is what really took his business to the next level and he went from making about 1.8 million per year to almost 7 million per year in sales. Eventually, people started asking him how he did it, and that's when The Wholesale Formula was born. Now, in addition to selling on Amazon, Dan teaches other people how to be successful in online wholesale. In this episode, Dan also shared some advice for anyone else interested in doing what he does. I hope that as you listen you'll find some inspiration from Dan's journey. In this episode, we'll cover: -How getting fired led Dan to being a full-time Amazon seller -Dan's early ventures with Amazon and the mistakes he made along the way -How a lucky start turned into a catastrophic mess -How Dan's creative problem solving kept him from a colossal loss -Dan's new approach and how it brought him to success -Dan's strategy to convince brands to work with him and how he went from 1.8 million in sales per year to almost 7 million -The challenges that came with quick business growth -How giving up control of some areas paid off (literally) -Safeguarding your business in the midst of major change -How Dan and business partner, Dylan, ended up creating The Wholesale Formula -The launch of The Wholesale Formula -How Dan's own business grew and benefited from The Wholesale Formula -Finding opportunity in the midst of difficulty -Is there still opportunity in the world of online selling? Dan's advice for anyone who wants to sell on Amazon -How to become a real Amazon seller in just six weeks SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode78 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram @aryehthebusinessman Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Today I'm going to talk about a mistake that I see people make again and again in not just their businesses but in other areas of their lives as well. I see people who spend a lot of time and effort preparing, learning, and educating themselves on what they need to do, but then not actually doing the things they've learned. I think a lot of times people actually get confused and mistake the gaining of knowledge of the application of that knowledge. When learning gets mistaken for action, people are often confused about why they didn't get the results they were looking for, but they fail to realize that they actually didn't put their learning into action. This applies heavily in the business world but also application to areas of life such as relationships. You might know exactly what steps you need to take to be a better spouse or partner, but if you're not changing your behaviour, you're not going to see results. In this episode I'll share more about how I see this play out in people's lives and what you should do about it if you catch yourself in the position of learning but not doing. In this episode, we'll cover: -Why educating and preparing yourself is not enough -You need to start doing the thing -Why you might not be getting the results you're hoping for -How this principle applies to other areas of life -Why imperfect action is better than “expertise” -Expect to make mistakes -The doing is the learning SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode77 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

On today's episode we have Anthony Trucks, a former NFL player and author of Identity Shift and founder of the Shift Method. Anthony shares with us his background and history, and some interesting lessons that you can get out of it for personal growth, business growth, or any of your relationships. Anthony talks about growing up in foster care, his adoption, and how he made the decision to alter his thinking in order pursue college and a football career. He shares his insights on how hardships in life help form intangible skills that can transfer to a successful business and life. He also discusses his Shift Method and how recognizing that you're not where you want to be in life can trigger a shift in your identify, and help form a plan and the discipline for success. Anthony Trucks is a former NFL player, American Ninja Warrior, business owner, author, speaker, and Identity Shift Coach. His Shift Method has helped thousands of people reprogram themselves from the inside out and align their life vision with their ideal identity. It is Anthony's passion and life's mission to pass along the knowledge that took him 30+ years to learn. As the founder of “Dark Work” and creator of the “Dark Work Experience” Anthony teaches people how to access the power of their identity through Dark Work, tap into their full potential, and Make Shift Happen! In this episode, we'll cover: -Anthony's early life from foster care to the NFL -How Anthony made the decision and mental shift to pursue college and a football career -Recognizing your intangible skillset earned through the crucibles of life -What Anthony didn't know he didn't know going into the NFL -Coming to the realization you're at the bottom in order to shift and progress forward -Planting the seeds of change and allowing the world to water it -Anthony's Shift Method and the goal of being in the Zone of your identity -Why doing things that feel out of character will get you to the place and to the person you want to be SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode76 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Have you ever reached a goal or earned a reward that should have been exciting but actually you ended up feeling a little bit disappointed? If you have, good news – you're normal. As it turns out, there is a clear psychological explanation for this, known as negativity bias. Negativity bias often occurs when we have an expectation that isn't met as fully as we hoped it would be. You've probably experienced this with something as simple as buying a new item that you just had to have and feeling your dopamine levels increase, only to feel a bit disappointed later when you realize that item didn't quite bring you the happiness you expected. In this episode, I'll share some of my own career background and, specifically, a story of a time when my expectations were exceeded, and a story of when my expectations fell short, and I felt disappointed even though I had earned a great reward. Through these examples in my own life, I'll give you an understanding of what negativity bias is, how it is likely affecting your life and your business, and how you can fight against it to continue moving forward and celebrating your successes. In this episode, we'll cover: -Why good businesses are exceeding your expectations, not just meeting them -The psychology of making people feel happy -Why you need to understand the psychology behind your own reactions -Why I felt disappointed by a 2000% return -Negativity bias and how it makes success feel disappointing -The relationship between your expectations and your feelings -The influence of negativity bias on your life and your business -Why celebration matters SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode75 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Today I had the pleasure of sitting down with Tim Calise, who is a business coach, investor, and advisor to over 15 privately held businesses with annual revenues from $250,000 to $10,000,000+. Tim's background is really unique but his story and experience lends practical advice no matter where you are in your business journey. In our conversation we talked through how Tim got started in the business world and looked at some of the most interesting parts of his career. From starting a campus snack delivery service and then raising over $325 million for a hedge fund in his early twenties to working for years as the VP of business development at gym launch, Tim has experience in many aspects of the business and truly understands what a business needs to be successful. One of the things that Tim is really interested in is the concept of non linear functions and growth in business and helping others apply this to their businesses. In the last few years, Tim has turned his attention to partnering with businesses with revenue under 3 million per year to help them double their revenue and quadruple their cash flow within 24 months. Tim shared that having conversations with business owners and helping them problem solve is really what gets him excited. Tim's expansive knowledge of the business world - everything from marketing to franchising to selling - means that you will almost certainly gain something of value from listening to our conversation. In this episode, we'll cover: -Tim's background and exposure to business as a kid -Tim's college businesses and his first lessons in business -Tim's start in the investment world -Non-linear growth in business -Knowing which stage in a business you're best at -Tim's business journey post 2008 -Gym Launch's unique business model -What Tim wishes he knew from the beginning -Tim's mindset shift from the beginning to now -Your business needs a storyteller -Why Tim loves partnering with smaller businesses -The problem with big consulting firms SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode74 Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Will Nitze is the founder and CEO of IQBAR, a brain and body nutrition company. I reached out to Will because I actually like and use his product. We had a really insightful conversation where he shared in-depth about his journey to starting IQBAR and all of the big steps in between brainstorming his product to where he is now. Will's story is not only full of great tips for anyone else starting or running their own company, but it's also really inspiring to see how hard he worked to even get this company off the ground. When he was in his mid 20s, he spent an entire year working evenings and weekends to research, plan, and design his product. As all of this was going on, he realized there wasn't really a road map for this kind of thing. He had no idea how to manufacture a product or do any of the other important things that come with starting a company. Will shared really openly about this process and how he figured out his own roadmap and processes to creating and manufacturing his product. Will also shared how, after launching the IQBAR crowdfunding campaign, he used consumer feedback to really help his product evolve into what it is today. In this episode, we'll cover: -Will's background story pre IQBAR -Why Will decided to start a brain food company -The roadmap to starting a company (does it exist?) -Why a great product isn't enough for a successful business -The three things you need to focus on for a successful business -How listening to your consumers can help your product evolve -Marketing your product to your consumers -How Will used reverse engineering to design IQBAR -Using unit economics and consumer desires to create the best possible product -How Will moved forward with creating prototypes and eventually finding a co-packer to take him on -Using crowdfunding sites to fund your product -The benefits of selling on Amazon -Challenges and logistics of getting product into stores -Where Will sees IQBAR going in the future -The question you should be asking about your business every year -The importance of optionality in your business SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode73 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

My guest today is Dan Macklin, cofounder of SoFi, a multi-billion dollar publicly traded company, and the CEO of Salary Finance Inc. We talk about what it takes to grow a multi-billion dollar company, what it takes to raise capital, and the pitfalls and challenges along the way. We discuss shifting roles from co-founder of one company, to CEO of another, moving from the corporate to the start-up world, and the links of financial stress on a person's well-being. Dan has some great anecdotes and advice for anyone trying to grow their own company. Daniel Macklin is the co-founder of Social Finance Inc. ($20+ billion IPO), and CEO of the United States arm of Salary Finance Inc. He holds a B.A. in Business Economics from University of Durham in England, and an M.S. in Management degree from Stanford Graduate School of Business. Dan has been featured on Bloomberg, CNBC, Forbes, Reuters, and the Wall Street Journal. He is also an angel investor, guest lecturer at Stanford University, Tottenham Hotspur devotee, and future Amazing Race contestant. In this episode, we'll cover: - Dan's work history and education before he co-founded SoFi - Tips for raising money and pitching to investors - Advice and things to avoid for your first three years of a new business - Dan's decision process in leaving a company he founded and deciding what to do next -  How Dan got involved with Salary Finance Inc - How Salary Finance Inc works and its challenges for the future - Financial stress and its links to your overall wellness - Making the move from the corporate to the start-up world - Role differences and similarities between a founder and a CEO SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode72 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

In today's episode I am interviewed by Jim Pfeifer from the Passive Investing from Left Field podcast. We talk about looking for sponsors who are making money for you, not ones who are making money off of you, and how to find and vet the right sponsor for you. We discuss how sometimes passive investment turns out to be active ones, and how asset managers can help with that. We also talk about different metrics and how to cater them to align with your investment strategy. This interview is full of tips and information to help you invest your money intelligently allowing your wealth to accumulate so you can focus on what matters, which is your business and your mission. Passive Investing from Left Field is a community focused on networking and education to help people invest passively and think differently. They interview syndication sponsors, passive investors and others who will share their passive investing journey as they pursue financial freedom. They are building a community of investors who are interested in acquiring real assets that produce real cash flow. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode71 Connect with Aryeh: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Today I had the pleasure of speaking with Carson Tate, the founder and managing partner of Working Simply and the author of Work Simply and Own It, Love It, Make It Work. Carson is a business coach and consultant and works with executives all over the country to help them and their employees be more productive while finding purpose and fulfillment in their work. In this conversation, Carson shared the importance of the culture of a business and why employee fulfillment is essential for a business to prosper. As business owners and team leaders, there are a number of things you can do to ensure your team members have the tools they need to succeed in their roles while still working toward your business goals. Carson shared some great tips on how to achieve this simply by considering how you communicate with your team members and by giving employees autonomy to create their own workflow systems and processes. Listening to this episode should convince you that you can value personal employee autonomy and fulfillment without compromising on the professional needs and goals of your business. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode70 Apply to Work with Me Connect on Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Regardless of your industry, there's something for you in this episode. Today I talk with Yadin Shemmer, CEO and cofounder of Intrinsic, about his business journey from starting out in finance, selling a business, taking a business public, and his experience with acquisitions. We discuss what he learned through three different exits, an IPO, and his advice for business owners who are looking to do the same. We also discuss how to think about customers, market segments, and physical products in the ecommerce market. In this episode, we'll cover: - Yadin's background and journey through business - Yadin's process of selling his first business - The difficulties of taking a company public - Yadin's work with Kleiner Perkins - The importance of culture during acquisitions - What is Intrinsic - Analysis and fundraising when starting an ecommerce - Market and evaluation gap in ecommerce - Yadin's predictions for the future of ecommerce SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode69 Resources: CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work wth Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

To be successful in business and in life it is important to have a strong mental fortitude, and that growth and mental toughness comes from consistently doing hard things. Today I share my own journey in building a greater mental strength. I talk about the importance of consistency, how there's no disgrace in failure, and not giving up even when you make mistakes. I also share how I've grown through continued consistency. I hope it inspires you to do hard things and not give up in your own life. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode68 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

The book I recommend the most, Built To Sell, is written by my guest today, John Warrillow. He has started and successfully exited four companies and has been in the unique position to have had thousands of conversations with business owners who have gone through the process of selling their businesses. He shares his expertise and insight with us today as we discuss reasons people sell, how to position yourself to sell, and some of the pitfalls that you might not even know exist. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode67 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Buyers don't buy your past. They buy their future. My guest today, Pete Martin, understands that more than most as he has successfully started, scaled and sold four companies and currently has two profitable, active businesses. In this episode, he shares his unique experience, as CEO and founder of Votem Corp. and Advisor for Ask My Board, in growing and exiting businesses. We talk about how you can maximize the value of your business and when is the right time to sell. Pete also shares personal stories throughout his business career and invaluable tips for owners looking to sell their first business. In this episode, we'll cover: - Pete's business history working as an entrepreneur and in corporate - What is Ask My Board - When is the right time to sell - Individual ways to Exit - How to maximize the value of your business for an exit - Using a set of advisors to sell your business - Getting growth without the need for capital - The Catapult Method - Refusing clients, even when you need the money - Tips for owners who have never sold a business SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode66 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

Do you know the Get, Keep, Grow methods? My guest today, Bryan Clayton, shares his experience in those methods through his growth and sale of a successful company and as the co-founder and CEO of GreenPal. He examines his strategies and experience with growing his previous and current businesses through the start-up, grow-up, and scale-up phases. Next, Bryan talks about the lessons he learned in growing his first business, and how he applies that to another business. He also discusses the nitty-gritty of selling a business, the mistakes he made, what he would do differently, and coming up with different game plans. In this episode, we'll cover: - Bryan's journey in creating and founding GreenPal - Bryan's experience with founding a business, working it as a lifestyle, to selling it - Running a business as a lifestyle vs. planning to exit - Working a five-year plan with the goal of selling - Maximizing value from existing customers—“Get. Keep. Grow.” - Using a broker with a niche - Retaining employees by utilizing a family culture - The difficulties in inventing and developing a brand-new technology - Where the idea and vision for GreenPal came from - Maintaining vendor and user satisfaction through problem solving - Solution-based approaches to handling startup issues - Bryan's future game plan for GreenPal - Founding a startup using your own capital vs. a venture capitalist SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode65 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram Learn more about Future Fund | The guilt-free flexible plan to build financial wealth + freedom

The end of the calendar year is a great time to reflect on the past and look forward to the future. In this show, I'm reflecting on the lessons learned from my previous three guests with an eye toward business in 2022 and beyond. While those three episodes with Angie Lee, Giselle Ugarte, and Hillel Fuld were packed with information, I outline what I thought were their common threads on today's show. In particular, I'm focusing on how business opportunities have changed in the past 20 years. Proof positive... my guests have all been able to pursue successful careers doing what they love in avenues that did not exist in the past. 2021 was a year that saw lots of change in the world and especially in business. Hardship forced evolution, and the companies that survived and grew were those with the ability to adapt and rethink the way they served their customers. The time for change isn't over yet. Today I'm going to share my predictions about major shifts that will be taking place in the world wide web and in finance in the years to come. In this episode, we'll cover: - How success in business no longer has a standard path - The ability to learn and practice skills faster and in new ways - Lessons for the business owner, employee, and junior-level person - Why we're able to pursue multiple opportunities in today's world - Why having a degree might not be the "must-have" it used to be - How re-thinking the old ways of doing things has led to business success - Content creation as a "door-opener" - A brief explanation of Web 1 vs Web 2 vs Web 3 - Decentralized finance and other changes on the horizon - My advice for business success in the new year Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode64  

Clear and concise communication is the key to successful business interactions. You can have a brilliant mind and develop ingenious products, but it won't matter if you can't explain what you do to a potential investor. Hillel Fuld is an incredibly well-connected man due to his skill as a communicator. He talks to me today about how he landed in his current career and offers some excellent advice to entrepreneurs looking to optimize their time. We discuss relationship equity, the drawbacks of self-promotion, and playing the long game.  Hillel Fuld is an advisor for business startups, content creator, public speaker, and Influencer. Originally from New York, he moved to Jerusalem in grade 10, a move that he describes as having been beneficial for his future social and business life. As a technical writer and the producer of a tech and marketing blog, Hillel got to know many entrepreneurs that reached out to him for advice. He quickly realized that they all had one thing in common: they needed help communicating their ideas to non-tech people. 14 years and thousands of connections later, Hillel still lives by the words of Leonardo Da Vinci: "Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication." In this episode, we'll cover: - What relationship equity is and why it matters - How scaling your business can help you reach a wider client base - Tech hacks to help you optimize your time - Building research into your job to help you stay current - Being a leader and the perception of leadership - Promoting others to create wins for everyone - Creating delight by exceeding expectations - The Do's and Don'ts of making introductions - Why clarity in writing is a valuable commodity SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode63 CONNECT WITH ARYEH: Apply to Work with Me: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/apply Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryehthebusinessman

Technology is always changing and as a result, so are marketing strategies. My guest today, Giselle Ugarte, has been both behind the camera and in front of it. She developed a unique understanding of the role that YouTube Influencers play in sales and advertising while the platform itself was in it's infancy and the term "Influencer" wasn't even in our lexicon. She shares some of the ups and downs of her career and her key takeaways. Giselle talks about making tough choices and deciding which opportunities are the right fit for you. She also has some great insight into the role of video in business, how sponsorship relationships work, and why coaches and mentors are important to your success.  Giselle Ugarte is from Minneapolis, Minnesota but always wanted to move to Hollywood and be on television. After attending USC for broadcasting, working hard, and networking, she eventually achieved that dream. During this time, Giselle was also on YouTube doing makeup tutorials and gaining an understanding of marketing and the platform. After events in her life made her reevaluate the direction of her career, Giselle ended up on radio and putting her side-hustle knowledge to use as a branding manager. From there she moved to an advertising agency focusing on humanizing corporations. Now Giselle has struck out on her own as the CEO of Action-Forward, speaking, coaching, and providing consultation to independent entrepreneurs.  In this episode, we'll cover: - Why a social media presence shouldn't be your goal, but a tool to achieve your goals - Changing your focus and your audience - What your online profile should say to potential clients and employers - Walking away from a path in which you've invested time, money, or effort - Why you might hesitate to look for a mentor but NEED to find one - Reframing the way we approach video creation - How to know when you're connecting with your audience - Information you should have ready when you're seeking sponsorship - Determining what your time is worth  - The benefits and importance of delegation   - The growing value of Influencers in marketing SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode62 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram

How do you get comfortable with taking risks? Develop a healthy relationship with uncertainty and regret. My guest today is the outgoing entrepreneur, community builder and podcaster: Angie Lee. She talks about where her fearlessness comes from when it comes to investing time and money into business ventures and ideas. We also chat about the importance of self-awareness for entrepreneurs and authenticity in personal brands. For the podcasters out there, Angie goes on to speak about podcast monetization and how to approach sponsors for your show.  Angie Lee is a multi-passionate person with a lot on the go. Turning her ADHD into an advantage, she has been able to channel her energy into several successful business ventures. Angie is an entrepreneur and the host of the personal development podcast, The Angie Lee Show. She is also a product developer, public speaker, blogger, course creator, and more. Self-described as "unemployable", Angie has been creating new and interesting jobs for herself for the past 10 years.  In this episode, we'll cover: - Being successful with ADHD - Finding your strengths and focusing on them - How to build courage and take chances - Important aspects to consider when building a community - Being raw and authentic with your audience - Two methods of podcast monetization: product funneling and sponsorship - How to pitch a podcast sponsor - The difference between Audience and Influence SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode61  

Do you have One Big Tip you like to share with people? Jeff Mendelson, get's to do this with his guests every week on his podcast, The One Big Tip, and today he's going to share some of his own tips with me. Jeff talks about how being bored at work led to him learning valuable skills, starting sides businesses, and how he got into his current career. We discuss different ways to compile and store content, and various uses a you can put it to. Our chat also touches on the ever-changing nature of Google and social media platforms, and their effects on client content distribution. Jeff Mendelson is a digital marketing expert and the creator and host of The One Big Tip Podcast. He spent years working for various companies as a tech guy with a sales background. Lacking any challenge in his work, Jeff never lasted long at any of them. In 2009, after being fired by a company for the last time, Jeff finally committed to going fully independent. Jeff now employs a world-wide network of freelancers, bloggers, web designers, and project managers. A strong proponent of lifestyle design, Jeff (normally) works from various locations around the world and extends that same freedom to his employees. In this episode, we'll cover: - How boredom led Jeff to mastering new skills - Generating ongoing revenue with multiple service offers - The importance of controlling your content and it's distribution - Issues that arise from dependency on third-party platforms - Working with non-business savvy clients - Ways to collect and re-purpose content from your podcast SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode60   Resources: Apply to Work with Me: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/apply Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryehthebusinessman

It doesn't matter where you come from, you can design your life. My guest, Zachary Babcock, is doing just that for himself and helping his entrepreneur clients and listeners do it too. Zach talks to me today about turning his life around after prison and how he educated himself in sales and marketing. We also discuss personal authenticity in business and the lasting legacies of his mother. Finally, Zach shares how he created Underdog Empowerment, what it's mission is, and what it's future holds.  Zachary Babcock is the Founder and CEO of the Underdog Empowerment podcast, a show that helps entrepreneurs launch, grow and monetize passive income businesses and personal brands. After spending over 5 years behind bars, he left his past behind and made a fresh start. Finding it hard to secure employment as an ex-con, Zach realized that he needed to go into business for himself. After forays into network marketing and a stint as a life coach, he found his true calling in the Underdog Empowerment podcast. Zachary now has a top 200 rated podcast, a business that makes over 6 figures, and is on the way to living his best life.  In this episode, we'll cover: - Books, speakers, and courses that educated and influenced Zachary Babcock - What door-to-door sales can teach you - The lessons to be learned from mentors and your mother - How to figure out your personal brand and your audience  - Why solo episodes and celebrity guest interviews are important for a podcast - Paying for guests to come on your podcast and paying to be a guest on a podcast - The long-term mission of Underdog Empowerment SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode59  

These days, social and mainstream media are chock full of stories about amazing stock market and investment gains. Don't buy into the hype. People love to share their stories when it comes to success and making money, but you don't see many of them talking about their business failures. Today I'll give you an update on the current volatile market we're experiencing and the factors that are making it look so good. I'll also share some of my recent investment horror stories and the lessons that they've taught me.  What do you do when your investment isn't making any returns? How can you get your money out of a business that can't pay it's lenders? Why is putting a higher leverage on your asset a risky move? I'll talk about all of these issues, along with frustration, late payments, and bad feelings. Today we're talking about the things that go wrong. We're talking about The Dark Side of Investing. In this episode, we'll cover: - The difference between realized and unrealized gains - What bankruptcy looks like for a business - Giving up your payment priority as a lender in order to save the overall investment - How deals that feel bad and cause you stress can look great on paper - Understanding the debt service coverage issues present in real estate deals - Considering the personal costs of investments that go off the rails SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode58  

Over the last few episodes, I have had guests on the show that have shared stories about how they built and sold their businesses. While each tale was unique, there were some common themes that I'm going to share with you today. What you don't know when you're building and running your business could end up costing you money on it's sale. Similarly, knowing what to look for when you're buying a business will impact the future profit you're able to make. Listen up, because I'm going to tell you what you need to consider when you're buying or selling a business. In this episode, we're going to talk about how many years of financial history a buyer will look at when considering an acquisition. To illustrate my points, I'll give you an example of what a single atypical year can do to a company's numbers. We're also going to delve into the world of profit margins. We'll talk about what makes up a profit margin and why it's important to the purchase or sale of a business. Finally, I'll give you some great insights into ways you can change your profit margins and what even a small change can do to your bottom line. In this episode, we'll cover: - Debunking the myth that buyers are only looking at the last 12 months of your financial records - How decreasing your operating costs can increase your return on a sale - What the Covid-19 pandemic has done to the business valuations of golf courses and restaurants - How to buy a business at a discount by knowing what you can do for cheaper - What to compare a company's profit margins to when you don't run a similar business SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode57  

The best products, especially when it comes to your health, are those that solve your problem and honestly work. My guest today, Adi Arezzini knows this first hand. Adi is the co-founder of Teami, a company whose flagship product was designed to solve internal gut health issues. In this episode, Adi and I discuss how Teami got started and the different marketing tactics she has used to grow her e-commerce business. She also shares her thoughts on product branding, horizontal expansion, and inventory control. Teami was initially created by Adi and her business partner to solve digestive issues that Adi herself was having. Realizing that they had created a product that worked and that could help others, the Teami brand was born. After focusing mainly on teas for the first few years, Adi reached out to her clients to find out what other issues they were facing. This led to Teami branching out into skincare and later into the wide world of wellness products. Staying true to her vision to create natural solutions that actually work, Adi can personally attest to her products' efficacy, as she has been has been the human guinea pig in their development. In this episode, we'll cover: - Adi's time in the Israeli army, discovering her gut health issues, and finding her love for fitness and well-being - Solving Adi's gut health issues with holistic nutrition and solutions and the development of Teami with her business partner - Branding and creating excitement for the consumer via product release - Letting the numbers drive your decisions when you're expanding your product lines - Influencer marketing: what works and what doesn't - Teami's successes and setback in branching out from teas and detoxes into skincare and other tea-based products - The concept that inventory is money. Over-ordering, under-ordering, and finding a neutral ground by buying specific amounts as test units Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode56  

Today I've invited an old friend Inside the Lion's Den for an interview. Eytan Weiner has been at the helm of Quantum Networks as Co-Founder and COO from its creation in 2008 to its recent sale in 2020. On this episode, we'll be discussing the start and growth of his business, as well as the mechanics of its sale last year. We'll also touch on questions of management, including finding the right people for the job and employee retention strategies.  Eytan Weiner is the Co-Founder and former COO of Quantum Networks. Founded in 2008, Quantum Networks is third-party online retailer that also creates launch and growth strategies for sellers on Amazon. In 2020, Eytan and his partner sold Quantum Networks to Advantage Solutions. Since then, Eytan has invested in and become the CEO of GETIDA, a technology company that provides software to track Amazon FBA inventory transactions, refunds, seller data analytics, and FBA reimbursements. Eytan is also a founding board member of the Prosper Show, the largest continuing education conference for established Amazon sellers. In this episode, we'll cover: - Strategies to become a successful third-party reseller on Amazon - The importance of "human capital" - How to retain good employees once you have them - How to create a good workplace culture - Different options Eytan Weiner considered when considering the sale of his business - The definition of a Cash-Free Debt-Free purchase - What an Asset Purchase entails - Details of the Quantum Networks purchase by Advantage Solutions - Eytan's new company: GETIDA SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode55 Resources: Apply to Work with Me: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/apply Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aryehthebusinessman    

When it comes to starting and growing businesses, Seth Farbman has been "flying by the seat of his pants" for years. He has built his career designing, building, and selling companies in the completely unsexy (but incredibly necessary) world of corporate services. Today, Seth and I discuss how he got into this industry, the sale of three of his companies, and his role in his current business. Seth also talks about the importance of relationships when it comes to growth, changing skill sets over time, and sticking to what you know when you're thinking about creating a service.   Seth Farbman is a success story in the stock market corporate services realm. He is currently the Co-Chairman and President of VStock Transfer, a stock transfer agent company. This was not always the case. After working as a securities lawyer for several years, he entered the entrepreneurial realm and founded/co-founded four lucrative companies: Vintage Filings, Vcorp Services LLC, Vcheck Global, and VStock Transfer. Although businesses that catered to the same clients or served the same purpose already existed, Seth was able to grow these companies successfully by adding value and making his contributions to the industry impactful.  In this episode, we'll cover: - The growth and sale of Seth's first business: Vintage Filings - Utilizing your strengths and areas of expertise, even if they're not "sexy".  These are the things that are going to make you money - Doing something that is already being done by another company, but doing it better - Why you need to lose the ego and talk to everyone. All connections are good connections and you never know where they'll lead - Staying on at a business after you've sold it - The rapid advancement of technology compared to the sometimes glacial pace of the regulatory and compliance side Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode54  

Start with the end in mind. While Stephen Covey coined this phrase, my guest Michelle Seiler-Tucker has made it a focal point for her businesses and those for which she consults. Whether you're new to business ownership or have owned one for a while, you need to think about an exit strategy. This is where Michelle comes in. Today Michelle shares an overview of the GPS exit strategy that she has designed for her clients and discusses having a destination for your business, the importance of getting regular valuations, having a timeframe in mind, and why lining up multiple buyers are key.  Michelle Seiler-Tucker is a born natural when it comes to sales and the art of closing the deal. After taking classes through Dale Carnegie, the training company approached her to teach with them. Shortly thereafter, she was poached by Xerox where she became known as "The Closer" and quickly rose through the ranks. Finding the corporate life unsatisfying, Michelle eventually set out on her own, first starting by building franchises then pivoting to help people buy and sell businesses. Michelle is now sharing her business acumen with the wider world via the courses and books she has authored.   In this episode, we'll cover: - The importance of making sure that the people you're in business with share your business values.  - Identifying your strengths and weaknesses so that you can focus on using your strengths and hiring out your weaknesses. -  That the number one reason why businesses don't sell: which is that owners have not thought about their exit strategy. - The GPS exit model for businesses.  - Factoring in Covid when you're looking at buying a business. You can't use growing or declining numbers obtained during the pandemic to get your baseline. - The amount of working capital you should have as a standard, and what is needed to get you through tough times.  - The fact that contracts can make or break a sale, so you better know your stuff. - Michelle's book Exit Rich. It's not just about selling your business, but about building a sellable asset by building a sustainable scale-able business.      SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode53

This is the first episode in what I'm calling my "Investment Series". I'll be discussing Multifamily Real Estate Investments using a deal I was involved in (now closed) as a case study. I'll be explaining the structure of that deal and how it impacted the numbers and their optics. Today I hope to provide some education to listeners with no or limited real estate investment experience and for those of you who are old pros, a high-level look at a deal that I found particularly interesting.  This episode may be a bit acronym-heavy for some of the novice investors, so I have included a few references here as well as a companion pdf. We'll be mentioning such concepts as: capital expenditures (CapEx); net operating income (NOI); return on investment (ROI); and earnings before interest, taxes, and amortization (EBITA). We'll also discuss the risk associated with a property (Cap Rate), how to calculate profit and loss (PnL), and the internal rate of return (IRR). I'll be using these terms and concepts to explain the real estate deal which featured a debt refinancing loan as part of it's business plan.    In this episode, we'll cover: - How to find your NOI by figuring out your net income and operating expenses and their associated calculations.  - Finding the value of a property by taking the NOI and dividing it by the Cap Rate and why the value of the property is calculated separately from the debt service on it.  - Free cash flow or the profit on the investment after all debts are paid and Preferred Returns for investors. - Debt refinancing loans as a method of quickly generating a high IRR and rising cash-on-cash returns.  - Looking at the full details of a deal to understand the rates of return, rather than just going by the basic percentages and numbers provided.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode52

Connections are key. This is especially true when it comes to networking, developing a following, or creating a brand. In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Travis Chappell, founder of Guestio and the Build Your Network podcast. While reaching out to people is inherently fraught with rejection, it is how businesses receive new clients and how podcasts book guests. Travis has spent years creating intentional and thoughtful relationships and he shares a few basic networking principles with us today, along with the story of how he got started.    In this episode, we'll cover: - Name dropping works. When you're networking and setting up interviews, you just need one well-connected person to give you a chance. This will open up the door to new contacts within the same industry. - Travis' new business, Guestio. A marketplace platform that connects podcasters, bloggers, and other content creators with the guests they need for their business.  - Minimum Viable Products. Keeping your apps simple upon startup will save you time and money.  - How focusing on credibility and authority when you're building your brand will generate loyal listeners.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode51

Hosting this podcast, I have the pleasure of speaking with guests from all walks of corporate and entrepreneurial life. They share with me, the secrets of their success, the things they wish they'd known, and the mistakes they've made along the way.  While no one can ever be prepared for every situation in business or in life, hopefully the lessons my guests impart and their combined experience can help provide some guidance.    SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode50   In this episode, we'll cover: - Taking ownership of your your work, successes, behavior, and especially mistakes to become a better leader.  - Changing your pre-conceived ideas to achieve the success you want and help your business grow. - How great leaders focus and work on their communication skills to get their message across to all audiences.  - The compounding nature of doing the same successfully proven actions over and over and it's effect on your business. - How sometimes just taking action can be your most important step.    Apply to Work with Me: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/apply  

Aspiring entrepreneurs and established business moguls alike are going to want to tune in today, as my guest on the show is Kelly Roach, Founder and CEO of The Unstoppable Entrepreneur. Kelly shares her thoughts on why so many new businesses and entrepreneurs flounder, the challenges of taking a business to the “next level”, and the obstacles that she faced while establishing her own company. We discuss the motives of many entrepreneurs and some of the critical structures that need to be in place in order to grow your business while still enjoying your life. From her own extensive experience in the corporate world, Kelly also provides some examples of the common mistakes she has seen fledgling organizations make and her ideas of what a developing company needs to survive in the world today.    SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode49   In this episode, we'll cover: - The importance of building a team and developing proper infrastructure in order to grow your business and achieve work-life balance.  - The first two legs of a business to focus on when you're first getting started: 1) Sales and Marketing and 2) Admin Operations and why they're necessary.  - Why mentorship is imperative for the development of an entrepreneur and their success.  - Understanding that nothing is ever “done” in your company. You have to be constantly evolving and adapting as your business expands and willing to rebuild and restructure as things change. - Training for your business like an athlete trains for their sport: the role that consistency and discipline play in entrepreneurship.

There is an audience for every story. My guest in today’s show is Jen Gottlieb, co-founder of Supper Connector Media, a PR company that does PR differently. Jen believes that leveraging publicity, media and connections is one of the best ways to grow your business. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs find that audience and share their story authentically and unforgettably, connecting them with a tribe of incredible people who will support, uplift and enlighten them along the way.   The Supper Connector Media: Disrupting the Traditional Public Relations Agency Model. The traditional media agency format is outdated – and journalists, editors, and producers see right through it. At Super Connector Media, they know the strength of the pack is greater than the strength of the lone wolf. When you work with them, you’re getting access to multiple rolodexes in a productive, supportive environment. It’s PR Done Differently.   Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode48

We've all heard of the rags to riches story, but have you ever heard of riches to rags?  Cody Lowry came from a blueblood family in Detroit, but by the time he was 8 years old, his family money was gone. He is here today to share inspirational stories of how the events in his life led him to become the motivational force he is today. He also explains why “schmoozing” is one of the most important entrepreneurial skills in today’s business world.  Cody Lowry is the Division President of INTERMARK GROUP Birmingham Al. He is the Author of “Schmooze: What They Should Teach At Harvard Business School”. Skilled in Advertising, Public Speaking, Copywriting, Social Media Marketing, and Creative Writing. Strong sales professional who graduated from UniverSity of South Florida.   In this episode, we'll cover: -The importance of persistence in sales -How Cody became a car salesman in just a day and how he got a baseball signed by the Pope -Schmoozing - how to rewire your brain to think about people in a way that focuses primarily on them -Why mentorship and emotional intelligence matter in entrepreneurship   Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode47

Today’s episode is unbelievably insightful and filled with amazing lessons, regardless of where you are in your business or what your business does. Today on the show we have Gareb Shamus, founder of Ace Universe and the modern day Comic Con, to share with us the lessons he learned on his truly amazing business journey. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode46

Do you ever think about your business from an investor’s point of view? Today on the show, Miles Lasater, a founder turned investor, shares his insights when it comes to thinking about things from a founder’s perspective as well as from an investor’s perspective regardless of where you are in your business. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode.   SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode45

Are you struggling to come up with ideas for your podcast? My guest for today’s episode is Travis Brown, the founder of Pod Decks - the #1 tool for podcasters, YouTubers, and content creators to help you spark deeper conversations, get more engagement, and take your podcast to the next level! Travis is here today to talk about the importance of customer experience, community and conversations are for your business, regardless of the industry you are in. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode44

Today on the show, Kayleigh Christina shares how to go into the entrepreneurial world; focus on the problem and consumer; and build a business around the solution. Kayleigh is the co-founder of CLEARSTEM Skincare, a non-toxic skincare line that targets acne, anti-aging, and scar reversing utilizing premium ingredients. She is also the co-host of the Balancing Your Hustle podcast, where she interviews thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and wellness experts. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode43

It’s easy to imagine that building a subscription business is easy. The barrier to entry is the lowest its ever been, the marketing channels are plentiful, but CAC is rising and competition is fierce. So how do you grow a subscription business? Paul has a few tricks up his sleeve and knows the strategy to not only sustain, but GROW! Paul Chambers is on the show today to talk about, lessons from the trenches of a subscription business. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode42 Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram

Today I am joined by Ralph Peterson. Ralph is the owner and founder of Ralph Peterson Management Services and he is a consultant who deals with a lot of different businesses, teaching people how to be managers and how to manage employees. In our conversation today, you will find a lot of important takeaways you can start applying in your business, regardless of the type of business you are in. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode41   Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram

My guest today is Yuri Kruman. Yuri is the founder and CEO of HR, Talents & Systems. In today’s episode we talk about the misunderstanding of human resources and how we should think about it more as a life skillset vs something that only big companies think about while entrepreneurs and other business owners don’t. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode40   Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram

Our guest today comes from the shores of Puerto Rico. Her name is Alison J. Prince and she is the founder and CEO of Because I Can. Alison has started and sold multiple businesses along her entrepreneurial journey and today we talk about her backstory where she went from being a Jr. High Teacher, living paycheck-to-paycheck, to building 4 multi-million dollar online brands, all while being a wife and mother of four. Now Alison helps regular people earn the kind of money that makes dreams come true by getting into the business space and growing their own businesses. We also talk about all the things that led her on this journey and specifically, a lot of things that she was never really taught and had to learn along the way. Thanks for listening! Head over to the show notes for links and resources mentioned during this episode. SHOW NOTES: https://insidethelionsdenpodcast.com/podcast/episode39   Resources: Apply to Work with Me Instagram