This is the Systems Simplified podcast where we feature top leaders who share stories on how to successfully systematize a business.
In This Episode What happens when a great team is forced to work without a great system? According to Jason Schroeder, the result is predictable—and painful. In this engaging episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, host Adi Klevit sits down with Jason to explore why systems are the ultimate form of respect in the construction industry and how leaders can use them to transform company culture, improve safety, and boost performance. Jason shares how his early exposure to well-run construction projects revealed the power of systems, and how the industry's shift away from structured training led him to found Elevate Construction. He and Adi discuss why many organizations resist change, how to separate system flaws from personal blame, and what makes lean thinking so effective when implemented correctly. Throughout the conversation, Jason emphasizes the role of education, the importance of understanding the “why,” and why real leadership means empowering others through clarity and repeatability. His insights are applicable far beyond construction—any industry can benefit from a systems-first mindset.
In This Episode If you're tired of the revolving door in your hiring process, this episode will change the way you think about employee retention. In this Systems Simplified interview, Adi Klevit speaks with Ryan Englin, who shares how his Core Fit Hiring System is transforming hiring and retention for trades businesses. Ryan breaks down how most companies don't have a hiring problem—they have a keeping problem. He outlines the full employee lifecycle, explaining how attraction, onboarding, and engagement all need to be systematized. From his CHOICE framework to creative marketing tactics for recruitment, Ryan walks through exactly how to become the employer of choice. Listeners will come away with practical insights on how to systemize hiring from start to finish. Whether you're in construction, manufacturing, or any people-driven industry, this conversation reveals how a process-driven approach to hiring boosts loyalty, performance, and long-term success.
In This Episode What happens when family and business mix? For Jan Southern, the answer depends on whether your business puts family first—or prioritizes business outcomes. In this conversation with host Adi Klevit, Jan shares how family-run businesses can thrive with the right systems in place. She explains why exit planning should begin at the moment a company is founded, how early preparation protects against unexpected events, and what it takes to transition leadership—whether internally to the next generation or externally to a buyer. Her experience spans both large corporations and small family-run firms, giving her unique insight into scalable systems. Jan also details the steps she takes to optimize business processes, improve profitability, and build value. From identifying inefficiencies to increasing company valuation through documentation, she shows how systems thinking drives better exits. Whether planning for succession or preparing for acquisition, this episode offers a playbook for long-term continuity and success.
In This Episode Most business owners say they want to grow, but few are willing to let go of the identity that made them successful. In this dynamic conversation, Adi Klevit interviews Brian LaBovick about his powerful journey from being a passionate trial lawyer to a systems-oriented CEO. Brian reveals how his firm hit a plateau—until he had the courage to delegate legal work, define his core values, and focus on building an organization instead of doing all the work himself. They dive into the emotional and strategic aspects of stepping out of day-to-day operations, from the fear of letting go to the discipline required to truly empower a team. Brian emphasizes how aligning systems with culture creates a sustainable business that can scale—and one that brings lasting value, both to clients and future buyers. Whether you're stuck in the technician mindset or ready to become the visionary your company needs, this episode is packed with wisdom and actionable insight.
In This Episode What if nearly half your team didn't know what they were supposed to be doing? That's the shocking statistic Diane Mentzer shares in this insightful follow-up conversation with Adi Klevit. Together, they explore the intersection of clearly defined roles and well-documented processes—and how that combination leads to higher productivity, better collaboration, and increased profit. Diane shares a compelling story of a leadership team that transformed its culture and output in just 30 days after gaining role clarity. She explains why hand-offs often fail, how documentation prevents breakdowns, and how creating a shared understanding between departments like sales and production leads to fewer mistakes and more revenue opportunities. Throughout the episode, Adi and Diane highlight the ripple effects of clear systems: more empowered employees, greater transparency, and faster execution. Whether it's using sales recordings for cross-training or building a centralized knowledge base, they break down the small tweaks that lead to big organizational wins.
In This Episode What does it really take to build and sell a business? According to Kasim Aslam, it's a mix of grit, obsession, and systems—lots of them. In this insightful conversation, Adi Klevit interviews Kasim about his entrepreneurial journey from humble beginnings to scaling and exiting a top Google Ads agency. Kasim shares how relentless effort and willingness to fail propelled him to success—but also emphasizes that sustainable growth only happens when you replace hustle with systems. He outlines how to replicate success by systematizing each win before moving on to the next challenge. They dive deep into the M&A process, with Kasim offering hard-earned wisdom on what private equity buyers really care about (hint: if it can't go in a spreadsheet, it doesn't exist). He explains how systems—not just talent—determined which departments survived post-acquisition, and why strategic partnerships with system alignment might yield better long-term outcomes than traditional exits.
In This Episode What does authentic public relations actually look like in practice? In this conversation, Adi Klevit speaks with Senja Spelman about how to build powerful marketing systems rooted in purpose, not just promotion. Senja shares her journey from working in dental and disaster restoration to becoming a sought-after PR leader in home improvement. She highlights how storytelling, local partnerships, and authenticity have helped scale brands while staying true to their values. One standout initiative—Baths for the Brave—showcases how thoughtful PR can drive national recognition and meaningful change. Together, Adi and Senja explore the systems behind consistent community engagement, how to identify causes aligned with company values, and why retention and recruitment often benefit just as much as brand reputation. If you're looking to build a marketing strategy that resonates and drives results, this episode is packed with actionable insights.
In This Episode When it comes to selling your business, systems are everything. In this engaging conversation, Claudio Vilas joins host Adi Klevit to break down the essential steps for preparing a business to be sold—especially to private equity. Claudio explains how structuring your company with clean financials and transferable processes can dramatically increase its value. He walks through common deal structures, including the benefits of taking “chips off the table” while reinvesting for a second payday. Claudio also shares who private equity is not for and what disqualifies a business from being attractive to professional buyers. This episode is a practical guide for any business owner considering an exit. With a strong focus on financial discipline and operational systems, Claudio and Adi outline how to build a business that thrives—with or without its founder.
In This Episode What if selling your business felt more like a calculated strategy than a hopeful gamble? In this episode of the System Simplified podcast, host Adi Klevit talks with business consultant and author David Barnett about the hidden complexities of buying and selling small businesses—and how systems play a pivotal role in both. David shares his journey from frustrated business broker to process-driven consultant, offering a behind-the-scenes look at what really drives successful business transactions. He breaks down the seller's journey into distinct phases: from valuation and packaging to buyer interaction and due diligence. David also reveals how lack of documentation and disorganized operations can derail a deal—or significantly lower a company's value. This episode is packed with practical advice for both business owners looking to exit and buyers looking for peace of mind.
In This Episode: Tired of chasing viral fame that doesn't move the needle? Nate Woodbury shares a smarter path. In this episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, host Adi Klevit talks with Nate about using YouTube as a repeatable, scalable lead generation system. Nate walks us through his unique “Leaf Strategy,” a method that identifies hyper-specific, frequently searched questions and answers them in short-form video content—effectively placing your expertise right where your ideal customer is already looking. They also discuss the misconception that going viral is the goal. Instead, Nate emphasizes marketing over nurturing: focusing on visibility to new audiences rather than simply engaging existing followers. He breaks down the process he's refined over 11+ years—everything from planning, scripting (or avoiding it), filming, and optimizing video content that delivers leads without needing paid promotion or backlinking. Whether you're a seasoned business owner or new to YouTube, this episode shows how a systematized content strategy can build authority, increase visibility, and generate consistent leads with less effort than you might expect.
In This Episode What happens when a thriving business suddenly loses 86% of its revenue in just four weeks? Burt Copeland knows firsthand—and he turned that crisis into a calling. In this engaging episode, host Adi Klevit interviews Burt about the near-collapse of his construction company in 2008 and how that life-altering event led to founding New Life CFO. Together, they explore why financial systems and processes are critical to long-term business health and how most CEOs overlook key risks by focusing too much on sales and too little on operations. From diagnosing margin issues to leveraging financial reporting for deeper operational insight, Burt shares actionable strategies business owners can implement to strengthen foundations before scaling. He also reveals the surprising power of letting go—why documenting your knowledge and stepping back from day-to-day roles can dramatically increase a company's valuation and readiness for exit.
In This Episode What if your lowest point in life was actually your greatest opportunity? In this inspiring episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, host Adi Klevit welcomes back Suzie Hall to discuss her powerful personal and professional transformation. Suzie shares how she turned betrayal and upheaval into a "halftime" moment—resetting her mindset, rebuilding her life, and designing her path to joy, abundance, and a tenfold business expansion. Suzie opens up about the systems she put in place, both internally and externally. From outsourcing design work to developing a daily “morning groove,” she describes how intentional structure gave her the foundation to grow—and to lead with authenticity. Suzie also emphasizes the importance of choosing high-quality inputs, surrounding yourself with the right people, and playing the long game by designing your life backwards from the outcomes you want. This episode is not just a story—it's a blueprint for entrepreneurs ready to shift from survival to design, from smallness to expansion.
In This Episode What if the key to unlocking business growth is documenting what's already in your head? In this uplifting episode of Systems Simplified, host Adi Klevit talks with Len Oppenheimer about his transformational journey from being deeply entrenched in daily operations to building a business that runs without him. Len shares how Golden Box, a family-founded packaging company, scaled from a kitchen-table venture to a structured, scalable organization by implementing repeatable systems. Through a candid conversation, Len outlines how documenting SOPs changed everything—from onboarding his first long-term employee to attracting top-tier leadership. He shares how defining core processes not only improved efficiency but also reinforced the company's family-oriented culture—even without family in the business. For entrepreneurs considering that next leap, Len's insights on achieving what he calls the “Return on Freedom” are both practical and inspiring.
In This Episode In this episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, Adi Klevit sits down with Victor Cho to discuss the balance between artificial intelligence and authentic human interaction. They explore the practical systems that businesses can implement to nurture deeper relationships using asynchronous, video-based tools like Emovid. Adi and Victor delve into how these systems support remote work, hiring, and ongoing communication, all while reinforcing trust and saving time. They also tackle the broader implications of AI in society and how systems thinking, emotional intelligence, and purposeful leadership can shape a human-centered technological future.
In This Episode What happens when you combine decades of marketing expertise with a deep appreciation for systems? You get Jay Berkowitz's framework for helping law firms grow through scalable, data-driven marketing strategies. In this episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, Adi Klevit sits down with Jay to break down the Ten Golden Rules of Online Marketing. They discuss why online marketing is both art and science, and how building a repeatable system—from SEO to intake follow-ups—can turn clicks into paying clients. Jay shares his law firm growth formula, explains the importance of tracking every touchpoint, and emphasizes the role of processes in client experience and referral generation.
In This Episode When your business starts growing faster than you can manage, what's your next move? For Kate Guillen, the answer was systems. In this episode of the Systems Simplified podcast, Adi Klevit speaks with Kate about how she scaled Simplicity Ops by embedding systems, workflows, and automation into every layer of her business. Kate explains how she turned her CRM into the central hub of operations, leveraged AI tools for documentation and client communication, and built an online learning platform that allowed her to triple her client load without sacrificing quality. Together, they unpack how even service-based businesses can grow without becoming chaotic—if you build the right systems.
In This Episode Is your marketing producing real ROI—or just noise? Rajat Kapur joins Adi Klevit to unpack the most common mistakes businesses make in marketing strategy and execution. He explains why so many companies waste money on quick fixes, how to craft a true unique value proposition, and the power of understanding your buyer's decision process. Rajat also highlights the importance of systems—both in marketing and business overall—and why even creatives should embrace process if they want to scale. This is a must-listen for any business leader looking to grow with intention.
In This Episode What happens when you align mindset, core values, and systems to scale and exit a business successfully? Briana Hetherington shares how she supports entrepreneurs by blending business strategy with mindset coaching. Through Altruistic Advisory and Finish Line Strategies, she guides companies in the home improvement sector to uncover limiting beliefs, develop meaningful core values, document processes, and plan for an exit with clarity. She offers tactical advice for creating learning organizations that continually develop team members through well-defined onboarding, training, and growth systems. Briana also discusses how her advisory board supports companies preparing to sell within 3 to 5 years, ensuring operational excellence and emotional readiness.
In This Episode What makes some dealmakers stand out while others struggle to close? According to Corey Kupfer, the difference is often systems—both internal and external. In this conversation, Corey unpacks his process-driven approach to negotiating deals. He explains how systems such as due diligence templates, internal training guides, and centralized data rooms not only streamline transactions but also add enterprise value and buyer confidence. Beyond the tangible tools, Corey emphasizes mindset systems. His framework of Clarity, Detachment, and Equilibrium helps negotiators operate from a place of strength and authenticity rather than ego or fear. Whether you're preparing to sell, acquire, or simply lead with more confidence, this episode delivers essential takeaways on systemizing deal success.
In This Episode What does it take to lead a family business to new heights in a competitive industry? In today's conversation, Leah Bitar shares how she transitioned from working in her father's construction company to co-owning and dramatically growing the business. She discusses the pivotal changes she made, including creating a new repair division, modernizing marketing efforts, and leveraging strategic learning from industry peers. Leah highlights the crucial role of systematizing business operations for efficiency, accountability, and sustainable growth. Her insights provide a roadmap for any entrepreneur looking to lead with adaptability, foresight, and a strong operational foundation.
In This Episode What if helping your employees feel healthier could also help your business grow? In today's conversation, Danielle Dinkelman shares the behind-the-scenes story of how she went from a music studio owner to an expert in employee wellness coaching. She explains why traditional employee assistance programs (EAPs) often fail to get engagement and how small businesses can implement meaningful wellness initiatives that employees actually use. Danielle discusses how wellness programs bridge the gap between personal wellbeing and professional performance, the mindset leaders need to successfully introduce such programs, and why wellness is no longer just a "nice to have" — it's a business necessity. Adi and Danielle also dive into how ACW Coaching designs customized, HIPAA-compliant programs that integrate seamlessly into a company's existing culture, fostering healthier individuals and stronger organizations.
In This Episode What is accountability, really—and how do you build a culture where it thrives? In this powerful episode of System Simplified, Eric Albertson draws from decades of coaching entrepreneurial leadership teams to break down the misunderstood and often mismanaged concept of accountability. Eric explains how most businesses suffer from a lack of shared understanding between leadership and employees. He emphasizes the critical need for clearly written agreements and defined processes to establish trust and ensure consistent results. Adi and Eric also explore why leaders must model accountability themselves and how the process of teaching it across an organization can take time but yield tremendous returns. Together, they make the case for using systems as the foundation for accountability—empowering team members to speak up, fix broken processes, and hold each other to clear, achievable standards.
In This Episode Dan Kuschell joins Adi Klevit to share how founders can scale businesses without burnout by implementing simple yet powerful systems. Drawing on his 30+ years of entrepreneurial experience, Dan outlines his five-pillar framework to build a business that generates quality leads, closes sales faster, and creates operational freedom. They explore why the “know, like, trust” model is outdated and how shifting to “know, respect, trust” better reflects modern buyer psychology. Dan explains how to use connection campaigns, lead machines, and education-based conversion to move prospects from cold to converted without relying entirely on the founder. Dan also shares how Google's research backs his approach and why founders must romance prospects like humans—not transactions. He closes with advice on scaling through automation and systemization while maintaining personal wellbeing and balance.
In This Episode Scott Berman shares the full arc of his entrepreneurial journey—from running a struggling startup to leading one of the top home improvement companies in the U.S. In a candid discussion, Scott walks through the operational pitfalls that led to his first company's bankruptcy and the hard-earned lessons that fueled his comeback. He emphasizes the importance of systems, structure, and staying out of the way as a visionary leader. Scott explains why growth without process will only amplify a company's weaknesses, and how businesses must break and rebuild their systems regularly to keep improving. Scott also introduces HeavySet Technologies, a powerful AI-driven scheduling platform that automates lead conversion and improves marketing ROI. Throughout the conversation, he shares real-world examples, team accountability insights, and a clear process for building a profitable, scalable business.
What happens when your company's mission and marketing don't speak the same language? David Meyer explains the breakdown he sees all too often: businesses spend time clarifying their vision and values—only to fall flat in their marketing communication. In this episode, he shares how to craft messaging that resonates with customers, reflects company purpose, and drives action. David outlines a practical framework to align marketing with business strategy. From identifying your unique value to crafting a clear, benefit-driven message in the customer's language, he reveals the essential components of effective brand communication. He also dives into emotional resonance in messaging, explaining why people make buying decisions with their hearts—and justify them later with logic. Plus, David shares how companies can think beyond one marketing quarter at a time and create a roadmap that ties every initiative back to core business goals.
What does it take to productize a service without losing the human touch? In this episode of the System Simplified podcast, Nancy Fox explains how consultants, coaches, and fractional executives can shift from time-based work to scalable, subscription-based business models using productized offerings. Nancy breaks down the difference between bespoke services and productized systems — and how you can systematize your expertise into roadmaps, methodologies, assessments, or subscription tools that deliver repeatable results. She also explains why productized services not only create more consistent revenue but also increase the long-term value and sellability of a business. Adi and Nancy explore multiple real-world examples, including how a plumbing consultant could build a repeatable upsell system or how a strategic advisor might develop a predictive scenarioplanning tool. Whether you're a solopreneur or a fractional executive, this episode offers actionable ideas to shift from one-to-one delivery to scalable, systematized growth.
Rocky Lalvani is the Founder and CFO of Profit Comes First, which advises coachable, forward-thinking business owners to boost their companies' profits. As a certified Profit First Professional, he implements Mike Michalowicz's Profit First System to help clients maximize their profit potential. Rocky is also the host of the Richer Soul podcast and the Profit Answer Man podcast. In this episode: Many business owners are great at delivering their product or service, but when it comes to managing profitability and cash flow, they're often flying blind. They may experience growth, but money still feels tight, and financial clarity remains elusive. How can leaders build systems that ensure sustainable growth and healthy profits? Profitability and cash flow expert Rocky Lalvani explains that overlooked financial systems can cause hidden inefficiencies and missed opportunities. Using a structured approach — like the Profit First system — can help owners allocate funds, manage expenses, and prioritize profitability from the start. Additionally, entrepreneurs can analyze their financial health in areas including revenue generation, profitability, and cash flow. By aligning employee metrics with profitability, optimizing pricing, and building scalable processes, business owners can enhance these areas. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit sits down with Rocky Lalvani, the Founder and CFO of Profit Comes First, to discuss building systems that boost profitability. Rocky shares the difference between scaling and growing, why many businesses grow themselves into cash crises, and how to embed a profit-minded culture throughout an organization.
Diane Mentzer is the Founder of Diane Integrates, LLC, where she serves as a business operations advisor and COO coach to help visionary CEOs and founders operationalize their businesses for growth. With over two decades of experience as a second-in-command, she supports top leaders in implementing incremental changes that enhance operations, reduce staff stress, and lower risk. Diane is certified as a Project Management Professional (PMP) and a Catipult Business Coach and has completed the EOS Integrator Masterclass. In this episode: The momentum gained during business growth can fuel long-term sustainability yet spark internal confusion. Roles blur, operations become reactive, and the founder often ends up entangled in day-to-day tasks they hoped to escape. How can business owners regain clarity and scale sustainably without burning out themselves or their teams? Second-in-command Diane Mentzer recommends building clear systems around people and processes. This requires identifying your ideal lifestyle and vision for your business and reverse-engineering the operational structure to support these goals. Through role clarity assessments, time tracking, and delegation mapping, you can identify a second-in-command, prevent overlap, and empower existing team members. In this week's episode of Systems Simplified, Diane Mentzer, the Founder, Business Operations Advisor, and COO Coach at Diane Integrates, joins Adi Klevit to discuss building systems for operational clarity. Diane talks about integrating strategic planning and role-based KPIs, how to evaluate delegation and team structure, and why a COO may not be necessary for small businesses.
Brian Elias is the Chief Imagination Officer at Refloor, America's most trusted flooring company. He is also the Founder and CEO of Credit Card Rate Lending by Hunter Financial (CCRL) and the President of DontGo.com, a lead generation company. With over 25 years of experience in the home improvement industry, Brian has received the Legends of the Home Improvement Industry Award and the Remodeling Big50 Award. In 1988, he founded 1-800 Hansons, growing it from door-to-door sales into a nationally recognized $80 million home improvement company before selling it to private equity in 2017. In this episode: Managing a business can be overwhelming, especially when it feels like everything depends on you. Entrepreneurs often struggle to reach the next stage of growth because they lack clear processes, don't hire the right people, and find themselves constantly putting out fires. How can business owners build a company that functions without their constant involvement? Seasoned entrepreneur Brian Elias has systemized and scaled multimillion-dollar companies. He emphasizes the importance of hiring employees who align with core values, implementing clear processes that eliminate guesswork, and structuring an organization so leaders can delegate effectively. Brian's businesses have thrived through his focus on well-defined missions, building a strong team culture, and strategic leadership — allowing him to remove himself from day-to-day operations while still driving growth. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit talks with Brian Elias, the Chief Imagination Officer at Refloor, about building a scalable, self-sufficient company. He shares lessons from building his first company, how to systemize your business, and his first foray into sales.
Kevin Bonfield is the Founder and Managing Partner of Concentre, a boutique consultancy partnering with mid-market, private equity-backed companies to propel growth, accelerate exits, and maximize returns. With over 20 years of management consulting, business development, and operations experience, he has advised clients, including Southwest Airlines and Tesla. Kevin is also the Co-owner of EcoClean Austin, an award-winning, environmentally friendly dry cleaner, and is a member of EO Dallas. In this episode: Some businesses face bottlenecks in their operations when scaling, like process inefficiencies and unstructured data. Without effective systems, growth can lead to increased costs rather than improved profitability. How can companies streamline operations, leverage data effectively, and integrate AI without creating more complexity? Business consultant Kevin Bonfield recommends establishing clear processes before automating, ensuring businesses capture and use data effectively. Companies should identify existing data in systems such as call center software before aligning it with their desired business outcomes. To improve process efficiency, you can also implement structured metrics like service level agreements (SLAs) and key performance indicators (KPIs). In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit interviews Kevin Bonfield, Founder and Managing Partner at Concentre, about leveraging AI, data, and processes for business growth. Kevin explains how structured processes drive operational efficiency, the right way to integrate automation, and the role of data in decision-making.
Matthew Connor is the Founder and CEO of CyberLynx, a company specializing in cybersecurity and professional IT services for growing businesses. He began his programming career at 12, working as a coder for his father's company, which sparked his passion for technology. Previously known as Your IT Department, CyberLynx focuses on protecting businesses from ransomware while offering premium IT support. Before launching his company, Matthew served as a human intelligence officer in the US Army for 17 years. In this episode: Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and many business owners feel overwhelmed by the risks. With cybercriminals using sophisticated AI-driven attacks, even small companies are vulnerable to data breaches, financial fraud, and operational shutdowns. How can businesses implement effective cybersecurity systems without breaking the bank? According to cybersecurity expert Matthew Connor, protecting a business from cyber threats starts with simple, affordable steps. Companies can implement AI-backed endpoint detection and response (EDR) systems to monitor threats in real time. Additionally, security operations centers allow you to receive alerts of potential threats and fraudsters. Matthew also highlights the need for continuous employee training to prevent human error, which accounts for most security breaches. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit interviews Matthew Connor, Founder and CEO of CyberLynx, about creating strong cybersecurity processes for businesses. Matthew shares tips for preventing phishing, best practices for email security, and why systemizing cybersecurity promotes long-term business resilience.
Entrepreneurs often focus on financial success but struggle with achieving a well-rounded, fulfilling life. Noah Rosenfarb, Founder of Freedom Family Office, introduces his framework for living “rich beyond money,” which goes beyond financial independence to include meaningful time management, purpose-driven work, and creating a lasting legacy. He shares practical exercises, such as the lottery ticket thought experiment, to help entrepreneurs determine what they truly want from life—and how to start making it a reality today. One of Noah's key insights is building predictable income streams that don't rely on constant business involvement. He emphasizes the importance of developing passive income sources, such as real estate, investment portfolios, and lending, while still owning a business. Additionally, he highlights the role of tax strategy in preserving wealth, urging entrepreneurs to proactively work with a tax strategist rather than relying solely on an accountant for compliance. Noah also discusses how to transition from being the core of a business to building a self-sufficient team. He explains how he structured his firm to allow his team to excel in areas beyond his own expertise, enabling the company to operate independently. Finally, he shares his personal branding approach—including his signature royal purple wardrobe—as a way to remain memorable and create deeper business connections.
Eli Wachs is the Co-founder and CEO of Footprint, a company revolutionizing digital identity verification and data privacy. He is also the Founder of Tech Fights Dobbs, a group of privacy and women's health companies using technology to protect women post-Roe. Before founding Footprint and Tech Fights Dobbs, Eli founded two additional companies, including one that tracked infectious disease spread. In this episode: Hiring the right people and implementing efficient systems are critical for any startup's success. Many early-stage companies struggle to define clear roles, leading to misalignment, inefficiencies, and slow growth. How can startups implement structured systems to scale efficiently? Identity fraud expert Eli Wachs emphasizes the importance of structured hiring and strategic systemization to maintain agility while scaling. Startups should hire with clear roles in mind rather than bringing on generalists without specific objectives. Eli also encourages startups to balance processes with flexibility, ensuring systems support growth rather than create unnecessary bureaucracy. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit chats with Eli Wachs, the Co-founder and CEO of Footprint, about how he scaled his identity fraud business using intentional systems. Eli talks about how Footprint prevents identity fraud, his method for hiring high-performing individuals, and how he balances remote and hybrid work with his team.
Jodie Cook is the Founder of Coachvox AI, a company that creates AI coaches based on thought leaders. In 2011, she established JC Social Media, a digital agency she sold in 2021 to begin coaching entrepreneurs. Recognized in Forbes' 30 Under 30 list in 2017, Jodie contributes to Forbes as a senior writer on entrepreneurship and AI. She is also the author of The Ten Year Career: Reimagine Business, Design Your Life, Fast Track Your Freedom. In this episode: If you're feeling stuck in your business, constantly handling every task yourself, it may be time to introduce systems and processes. Many entrepreneurs hesitate to implement structured workflows, fearing they may lose control or stifle creativity. How can systemizing your business give you more freedom while improving efficiency and profitability? Entrepreneur Jodie Cook faced this challenge while running her social media agency. Overwhelmed by daily operations and unable to take a break, she realized she needed a structured approach to scale. By documenting every task, delegating responsibilities, and creating standard operating procedures, Jodie transformed her agency into a self-sustaining business. This allowed her to sell the agency at a high multiple without a lengthy transition period. In today's episode of System Simplified, Adi Klevit interviews Jodie Cook, Founder of Coachvox AI, about how she implemented structured systems to exit her business. Jodie shares the pivotal moment that forced her to delegate, the impact of well-documented processes on business valuation, and how she helps coaches scale through AI-powered coaching models.
Sneer Rozenfeld is the CEO of Cyber 2.0, a cybersecurity firm that prevents the spread of cyberattacks within organizational networks. Under his leadership, Cyber 2.0 has developed a unique approach to cybersecurity, applying biological models and chaos theory to enhance defense mechanisms. With over 20 years of experience in sales, Sneer has held senior-level positions, such as VP of Sales at Mobisec Technologies and Zoltrix. In this episode: With cyber threats and attacks becoming increasingly common in business environments, companies must protect sensitive data and operations. How can you implement effective security measures to defend against evolving cyber threats? Cybersecurity professional Sneer Rozenfeld simplifies complex cybersecurity concepts to promote innovative defensive strategies. Cyber threats spread similarly to biological viruses, so traditional detection-based securities are no longer sufficient. By leveraging chaos algorithms — similar to weather prediction systems — and behavior analysis, companies can prevent cyberattacks from infiltrating their networks. Sneer also warns of sophisticated cyber scams, such as hackers posing as recruiters to exploit employees and gain system access, highlighting the importance of proactive security measures. In this Systems Simplified episode, Adi Klevit chats with Sneer Rozenfeld, the CEO of Cyber 2.0, about how businesses can strengthen their cybersecurity systems. Sneer shares practical strategies for reducing cyber risks, explains the limitations of relying solely on employee training, and offers insights on integrating advanced security solutions to stay ahead of cybercriminals.
Jerome Myers is the Founder of Exit to Excellence, which guides founders through the business exit process. He is also the Founder and Real Estate General Partner at The Myers Development Group, LLC, which specializes in creating and executing strategic real estate investments. Previously, Jerome led a $20 million operation at a Fortune 500 company, where he advised on revenue growth, work-life balance, and philanthropy. Through his NEO Navigator program and DreamCatchers podcast, he guides founders through key life transitions to help them build lasting legacies and contribute to their communities. In this episode: Many business owners struggle transitioning from leading their company to life after an exit. This process involves more than just financial planning; it requires addressing emotional and practical challenges, including identity shifts and finding purpose beyond the business. How can entrepreneurs prepare for this transition effectively? Post-exit strategist Jerome Myers introduces his eight-exit transition system, which guides founders through key stages such as leaving employment, stepping away from daily operations, achieving a liquidity event, and creating a lasting legacy. He also highlights the six centers of doubt — identity, relationships, work, health, prosperity, and significance — that many entrepreneurs face after selling their businesses. By addressing these areas in order, founders can navigate their exit with confidence and clarity. Tune in to this episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit interviews Jerome Myers, the Founder of Exit to Excellence, about transitioning to a post-exit lifestyle. Jerome talks about identifying his business niche, the process of exiting your business, and his trajectory through corporate America.
Richard (Rich) Walker is the CEO of Quik!, which provides form automation and management solutions to help companies maximize efficiency and productivity. He has launched more than 10 companies and hosts The Customer Wins. Before founding Quik!, Rich was a Financial Planner at Cetera Investment Networks and a Business Consultant at Arthur Andersen. He is also the author of It's My Life! I Can Change If I Want To. In this episode: Most entrepreneurs experience financial anxiety, especially when first beginning. This includes facing instability, uncertainty, and decreased sales periods. How can you shift your mindset to focus on fulfillment rather than financial performance? Veteran entrepreneur Rich Walker defines prosperity as impacting individuals and finding purpose in your entrepreneurial endeavors. Rather than approaching challenges as barriers, Rich recommends embracing them as opportunities to grow, allowing you to manage uncertainty and financial instability with confidence. Creating and documenting company-specific systems and processes is also crucial to navigate sales fluctuations. Join Adi Klevit in today's episode of Systems Simplified as she chats with Richard (Rich) Walker, the CEO of Quik! about navigating entrepreneurship with confidence and fulfillment. He talks about his entrepreneurial wins and failures, the premise of his book, and how to identify your ideal customers.
Mark Coudray is the Founder and Principal Advisor of Catalyst Plan, a program that helps businesses achieve growth and profitability. He is also the Founder and Principal Advisor of Coudray Growth Technologies, a firm specializing in business coaching and consulting for the screen printing industry. With over five decades of experience, Mark began his career by establishing a screen printing business at the age of 19. He was also recognized as the Profit First Professional of the Year in 2019. In this episode: Many businesses struggle with sustainable growth, often facing challenges related to inefficiencies, cash flow management, or customer retention. Without the right systems in place, companies may find themselves in a cycle of stagnation and financial instability. How can businesses implement strategic processes to achieve long-term success with minimal effort? According to business growth expert Mark Coudray, achieving profitability and scalability requires a data-driven approach that focuses on optimizing operations and leveraging specific financial strategies. By implementing frameworks such as Profit First and his proprietary "physics of profit" model, businesses can improve cash flow, prioritize high-value opportunities, and create a roadmap for sustained growth. Mark emphasizes the importance of understanding customer behavior, refining operational efficiencies, and shifting from a reactive to a proactive mindset. In the latest episode of Systems Simplified, Mark Coudray, Founder and Principal Advisor of Catalyst Plan, joins Adi Klevit to discuss his strategies for accelerating business growth with little effort. Mark shares insights on using data analytics to drive decision-making, structuring operations for efficiency, and adopting value-based pricing to maximize profitability.
Dr. Nestor Rodriguez is a board-certified emergency physician and the Medical Director of Carbon World Health, a medically supervised spa and fitness facility. He is also the Medical Director of the Emergency Department at Watertown Regional Medical Center. With a passion for health and longevity, Dr. Rodriguez has worked with elite professionals and athletes to help them prevent disease. In this episode: Entrepreneurs often neglect their health and wellness, believing they must sacrifice personal well-being to grow their businesses. How can business leaders prioritize their health while maintaining peak performance in their companies? Physician Dr. Nestor Rodriguez believes optimizing health is essential for long-term business prosperity. Much like running a company, maintaining wellness requires a systematic approach. Dr. Rodriguez emphasizes recognizing the importance of health before implementing personalized nutrition, exercise, and sleep routines. He also recommends seeking expert guidance to avoid confusion from conflicting health advice and to create a tailored wellness plan. In this episode of System Simplified, Adi Klevit interviews Dr. Nestor Rodriguez, the Medical Director of Carbon World Health, about systematizing health for business leaders. Dr. Rodriguez discusses the importance of proactive health strategies, how to integrate wellness into busy schedules, and why a healthy lifestyle is critical for sustained business success.
Adam Goldman is the Franchise Consultant and Coach at FranchiseCoach, where he provides personalized coaching sessions for franchisees and franchisors. With over 20 years of experience as an investor and franchise consultant, he has founded and scaled three companies, including an IT company and an investment company. Adam also grew the Vanguard Cleaning Area Developer into a multimillion-dollar enterprise with over 30 franchisees and 300 customers before selling it. In this episode: Franchising offers a structured pathway to business ownership, but it isn't for everyone. How can you determine if franchising is right for you and identify an ideal franchise business? According to franchise coach Adam Goldman, franchising relies on leveraging systems and support mechanisms provided by the franchise, including training programs, marketing assistance, and operational frameworks. These systems enable entrepreneurs to scale efficiently while allowing for some creativity within the established guidelines. Becoming a franchisee requires following proven processes, collaborating with corporate offices, and aligning personal goals with the franchise's systems and purpose. In today's episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit welcomes Adam Goldman, the Franchise Consultant and Coach at FranchiseCoach, to discuss breaking into the franchise model. Adam talks about the importance of aligning yourself with franchises' established systems, how to excel as a franchisee, and how he became a franchise coach.
Chris Hamilton is a Partner at Hotchkiss Insurance, which provides business and personal insurance, risk management, and employee benefits consulting. In his role, he leads the employee benefits practice by advising consultants and specialists focused on helping companies improve performance and profitability. With nearly 20 years of experience in corporate finance and insurance, Chris has worked with mid-market, regional, and national employers. In this episode: With rising healthcare costs, businesses struggle to provide valuable benefits to employees. Many entrepreneurs don't understand the forces driving these costs and the inequities within the healthcare system. How can businesses manage healthcare expenses effectively without compromising coverage? According to insurance expert Chris Hamilton, escalating healthcare costs stem from industry consolidation, rising provider expenses, and vague insurance company practices. He explains that many businesses purchase traditional fully insured plans, which may involve high premiums and conflicts of interest with insurers. Chris advocates for partially self-funded health plans, in which employers assume part of the risk and gain more control over costs. This strategy enables companies to customize their plans, engage in direct contracting with providers, and offer enhanced benefits at lower prices. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit interviews Chris Hamilton, a Partner at Hotchkiss Insurance, to discuss strategies for controlling healthcare costs and enhancing employee benefits. Chris shares insights into partially self-insured plans, the role of direct contracts in reducing expenses, and his experience with a direct agreement that significantly cut the cost of surgery.
Rick Kranz is the Director of The AI Marketing Automation Lab, a premium community of marketing professionals leveraging ready-to-deploy marketing automations. With entrepreneurial and Fortune 500 experience and 15 years of managing digital marketing agencies, he bridges the gap between advanced AI technology and practical business applications. In this episode: Automation is becoming standard as companies look to enhance efficiency and maximize sales. With the rapid adoption of AI, businesses can automate and optimize time-consuming and labor-intensive tasks. How can AI transform the sales process, and what tools can facilitate this evolution? Digital marketing and automation whiz Rick Kranz recommends integrating AI tools like Claude into your CRM to develop automated sales agents. These agents can conduct in-depth research into prospects, allowing you to develop an outreach process. Claude and other AI tools can also create customized outreach campaigns based on prospect and business goals. When integrating AI tools into your sales processes, Rick emphasizes maintaining authentic human input to enhance the customer experience. Tune in to the latest episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit sits down with Rick Kranz, the Director of The AI Marketing Automation Lab, to talk about automating the sales process through AI. Rick shares how AI can streamline the customer research process, the differences between popular AI tools, and how to customize prompts for outreach campaigns.
John Warrillow is the Founder and President of The Value Builder System™, which offers an assessment tool to help business owners build value. He is also the Founder of VidGuide, a software that allows business owners to document SOPs using video. As an entrepreneur, author, and speaker, John hosts the Built To Sell Radio podcast and is the author of Built to Sell. In this episode: Many businesses operate using the hub-and-spoke model, which relies on the founder to direct every company process. However, the operations fall apart when the owner needs to step away from the business. How can you separate yourself from your business? According to business value builder John Warrillow, entrepreneurs are too focused on growing revenue and don't consider the company's end goal. Founders should consistently work toward their eventual exit by building value and slowly offboarding themselves. This requires identifying your company's purpose and documenting systems and processes that promote that purpose. Well-documented systems increase value to potential buyers by relying on employees to execute operations rather than the founder. In the latest episode of Systems Simplified, John Warrillow, the Founder and President of The Value Builder System™, joins Adi Klevit to discuss building business value for an eventual exit. John shares how systems documentation increases company value, VidGuide's video process documentation software, and how to determine your company's identity.
Rachel Lebowitz is the Founder of Empowered COO, which helps integrators and COOs eliminate burnout, resentment, and self-doubt to execute their visions. She is also the Founder of Driven Spouse Forum, a space that bridges the gap between high-level, visionary entrepreneurs and their spouses. As a former EOS implementer, Rachel is the author of Empowered COO. In this episode: Visionaries drive innovation and big-picture thinking, but their success often relies on the unsung efforts of integrators who systemize and execute those ideas. Without clear boundaries and effective communication, integrators risk burnout and frustration, hindering business growth. How can second-in-command leaders, like COOs, thrive in their roles and build successful partnerships with visionaries? Rachel Lebowitz, a coach for visionaries and integrators, has developed processes to support integrators in navigating their demanding roles. She highlights five key areas that lead to burnout, including people-pleasing behaviors, lack of assertive communication, and overdependence on external validation. Rachel emphasizes the importance of setting boundaries, delegating effectively, and fostering self-confidence to maintain balance and productivity. Additionally, Rachel recommends asking critical questions rather than providing solutions to empower teams and encourage independent thinking. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit speaks with Rachel Lebowitz, the Founder of Empowered COO, about how integrators can enhance their roles and relationships with visionaries. Rachel shares insights from her book, the process for executing visions, and her systems-oriented approach to developing calculated solutions.
Christian Brim is the CEO of CORE Group, an outsourced bookkeeping and tax preparation services firm. With over 25 years of experience in business finance, he helps business owners increase profits through financial planning and reporting, business valuation, and budgeting. Christian is also the author of Profit First for Creatives. In this episode: Creative entrepreneurs often separate profit and passion, believing they can't pursue what they love while making money. How can creatives change their mindset around money to pursue their endeavors? According to creative finance master Christian Brim, creative entrepreneurs who view passion and profit as mutually exclusive often underprice their services. Profit is essential to a sustainable business, so rather than structuring pricing based on costs and revenue, Christian recommends identifying the value you deliver to customers with your products or services. You can accomplish this by obtaining feedback from customers on how your products or services benefit them. This allows you to create a business model that rewards you for your services. Tune in to this episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit hosts Christian Brim, the CEO of CORE Group, to discuss how creatives can adopt a Profit First mindset to price their services. Christian shares his value pricing system for creatives, how to reevaluate your pricing, and why he adopted Mike Michalowicz's Profit First process.
Diane Helbig is a Business Advisor at Helbig Enterprises, which partners with businesses to create personalized growth strategies. As a growth accelerator, she provides workshops and presentations on sales, social media, leadership, and business planning for entrepreneurs and salespeople. Diane is the author of Lemonade Stand Selling, which offers a guide to the sales process. She also hosts the Accelerate Your Business Growth podcast. In this episode: When networking, sales professionals talk too much about their product or service, trying to gain potential clients rather than build relationships. Consequently, they rarely close the sale since the customer becomes disinterested. How can you refine the sales process to focus on prospects' needs? Sales expert Diane Helbig maintains that sales leaders should attend networking events to observe prospects' behaviors and determine how to build meaningful relationships with them. Rather than approaching prospects with your solution, invest time learning about them and their situations and nurture this relationship throughout the discovery process to build trust. When closing the sale, integrate value into each investment, ensuring the prospect can benefit from your product or service. A step-by-step process allows you to turn prospects into clients. In the latest episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit speaks with Diane Helbig, the Business Advisor at Helbig Enterprises, about improving the sales process. Diane shares best practices for building relationships with prospects, why she believes in system and process documentation, and how she helped transform a client's business.
Shmuly Rothman is the Founder and Executive Coach at Rothman Coaching, a consultancy that eliminates fundraising obstacles for Shluchim. He specializes in training fundraisers in the Chabad movement and the NFP sector. In this episode: Leaders may excel at their craft in practice, but when turning it into a business venture, they may fall short. Systems prevent problems before they arise by enabling leaders to anticipate and address potential issues proactively. How can business owners foster smooth operations, reduce stress, and drive long-term success? Leadership coach Shmuly Rothman has developed a “problem-free” mindset to address problems before they arise. After experiencing a critical equipment failure at a community event due to a lack of preparation, Shmuly realized the importance of planning ahead. He emphasizes learning from others' experiences, stress-testing plans, and documenting best practices to avoid costly mistakes. He also suggests shifting from reactive problem-solving to proactive vision-setting by empowering teams through well-designed systems. In this episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit hosts Shmuly Rothman, the Founder and Executive Coach at Rothman Coaching, to discuss addressing leadership problems. Shmuly explains how to adjust your communication style, the value of intentional language, and how he eliminates self-doubt.
Michael Richman is a Certified EOS Implementer® at EOS Worldwide, where he educates, facilitates, and coaches companies on optimizing their leadership teams and businesses. As a fourth-generation entrepreneur, he managed a multimillion-dollar custom manufacturing company, serving top brands like Panda Express and Four Seasons Hotel. During Michael's tenure, the company doubled in size and increased profitability margins by 20%. In this episode: After purchasing a company, some buyers try reinventing the wheel rather than following established processes, leading to potential bankruptcy. How can new business owners adopt well-documented and observed processes from previous owners? EOS expert Michael Richman sold his company to an overzealous buyer who believed the business didn't need systems to survive and eventually ran it into the ground. He emphasizes documenting processes efficiently through checklists rather than lengthy documents to ensure readability and follow-through. Michael also recommends that new owners encourage employees to update and refer to established systems instead of accomplishing tasks individually. Tune in to this week's episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit chats with Michael Richman, a Certified EOS Implementer® at EOS Worldwide, about the importance of following established processes after purchasing a business. He shares why he exited his company, the barriers to process follow-through, and his multigenerational entrepreneurial background.
Phil Risher is the President of Phlash Consulting, a digital marketing consulting company that helps local service businesses increase sales. He founded Phlash Consulting after becoming frustrated with traditional marketing services while working at one of the country's largest air duct cleaning companies. Through his proprietary marketing strategies, Phil doubled a company's size before selling it to private equity. In this episode: Home service business owners often focus solely on targeting new customers. Yet past and existing customers are an untapped market these entrepreneurs can leverage to scale. What marketing strategies can you employ to enhance your customer base? Home service executive turned marketing consultant Phil Risher has developed a three-part marketing system that involves visibility, conversions, and retargeting. Eighty-seven percent of customers rely on Google business profiles and reviews when selecting home service companies, so building your online presence through SEO optimization and B2B partnerships keeps you top of mind. Generating conversions requires consistent communication with new leads through automatic text messages, letting potential customers know you haven't forgotten them. You can also retarget current and past customers through cross-sales or promotional offers. Tune in to this episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit talks with Phil Risher, the President of Phlash Consulting, about his three-step marketing process for home service companies. Phil shares how to foster lifetime value, the value of memberships, and how to nurture leads.
Jason Neufeld is the Managing Partner of Elder Needs Law, PLLC, an elder law firm that specializes in Medicaid planning, estate planning, and probate administration. As an experienced attorney, he has been recognized as an AV Preeminent Rated Attorney by Martindale-Hubbel and a top lawyer by Super Lawyers Magazine and Florida Trend's Legal Elite. Jason is also a board member of the Academy of Florida Elder Law Attorneys and a Co-chair of the Broward County Bar Association Elder Law Section. In this episode: New business owners are often overwhelmed with anxiety about finances, hiring, and client acquisition. How can you scale your operations strategically rather than trying to manage everything single-handedly? Attorney and business owner Jason Neufeld initially hesitated to hire outside help, worrying he wouldn't make payroll. He maintains that these hiring fears are often irrational, and business owners must equip intelligent people with the tools to guide their operations. This entails implementing predictable operating systems for intakes, marketing, and hiring. Consistent processes give you a direction to scale your business. In the latest episode of Systems Simplified, Adi Klevit talks with Jason Neufeld, the Managing Partner at Elder Needs Law, PLLC, about how he built his firm using scalable systems. Jason shares how he promotes his thought leadership, how to recognize when it's time to hire, and his advice to his younger self.
Ghazenfer Mansoor is the Founder and CEO of Technology Rivers, a software company developing HIPAA-compliant web, mobile, and cloud-based healthcare software applications. As a seasoned advisor and investor in technology and healthcare, he has fulfilled roles as an architect, programmer, software engineer, user experience specialist, product developer, growth hacker, and chief technology officer. In this episode: Adopting software can streamline your company's processes and enhance operations. How can you decide whether to build custom software or leverage existing tools? While custom software increases business value through patented ownership, it's often a costly option. Software developer Ghazenfer Mansoor recommends assessing your existing processes and business goals to determine whether customized tools can deliver viable solutions. Companies often discover they achieve better results when integrating their current systems with off-the-shelf tools. When building customized software, Ghazenfer suggests developing each model in stages to ensure it remains adaptable and risk-free. Tune in to this episode of Systems Simplified as Adi Klevit hosts Ghazenfer Mansoor, the Founder and CEO of Technology Rivers, to discuss custom software integrations and solutions. Ghazenfer explains how to assess your current software solutions, how he builds HIPAA-compliant software for healthcare businesses, and his background as a software engineer.