Podcasts about agency growth

Struggling to scale your insurance agency without adding more chaos? Discover how embracing fun and authenticity can transform your business and life.In this fun episode, we sit down with Nicholas Sakha, a dynamic insurance agent from Las Vegas. We dive into the evolution of Nicholas's career, exploring how he leveraged social media to grow his agency and connect with clients. The conversation touches on the importance of balancing work and personal life, the power of authenticity in content creation, and the unexpected benefits of stepping back to gain perspective. Nicholas shares his journey of creating engaging content that resonates with audiences beyond the insurance world, emphasizing the value of humor and relatability. We also discuss the challenges and rewards of scaling an agency, the significance of maintaining a strong social presence, and the impact of personal stories in building connections.Key Takeaways:✔ Discover why your sales pipeline is leaking opportunities✔ Learn how top-performing agencies create predictable growth✔ Find out how better processes improve producer accountability✔ Understand what separates average agencies from elite performersJoin the elite ranks of P&C agents. Sign up for Agent Elite today and get exclusive resources to grow your agency!

In this episode, Alex Quin and Michelle Chia return to the podcast after a brief hiatus to share personal and professional updates, discuss the realities of entrepreneurship, and break down the healthy habits that help them sustain long workdays without burning out. From sleep, exercise, nutrition, and stress management to setting boundaries, journaling, and personal growth, they offer practical insights for entrepreneurs looking to build successful businesses while protecting their health and well-being.Episode Outline:[00:00] Welcome Back and Life Updates[02:15] Agency Growth, New Clients, and New Books[04:20] Why We Chose Healthy Habits for Entrepreneurs[08:05] Sleep, Recovery, and Long-Term Performance[10:12] Taking Breaks, Walking, and Staying Active[12:25] Time Blocking and Productivity Systems[14:15] Setting Boundaries With Clients[16:05] Learning to Say No[17:35] WHOOP, Oura Ring, and Health Tracking[19:05] Michelle's Cortisol and Stress Story[21:40] Nutrition, Hydration, and Managing Stress[23:10] The Tarzan "Swinging Vines" Concept[25:05] Becoming Your 2.0 Self[26:40] Journaling, Books, and Personal Growth[27:50] Habits We're Trying to Change[28:40] Final Thoughts and Closing RemarksWisdom Nuggets:Sleep Is a Competitive Advantage: Entrepreneurs often treat sleep like a luxury instead of a necessity. Alex and Michelle remind us that better decisions, sharper focus, and sustainable growth all start with proper recovery. The goal isn't to work more hours—it's to make your hours more effective.Protect Your Energy: Being available 24/7 may feel like great customer service, but constant accessibility creates burnout. Setting healthy boundaries with clients, coworkers, and even family members allows you to show up at your best when it matters most.Track Your Health Like Your Business: Most entrepreneurs obsess over revenue, sales, and analytics while ignoring their own health metrics. Monitoring stress levels, sleep quality, blood work, and recovery can help identify issues early and improve long-term performance.Let Go to Level Up: Growth often requires releasing habits, relationships, or routines that no longer serve your future. Like Tarzan swinging from one vine to the next, you have to let go of the old before you can fully grab onto new opportunities.Become Your Next Version: Success isn't about staying the same person and hoping for different results. The habits, mindset, and behaviors that got you here may not be enough to get you where you want to go next. Continuous self-improvement is a requirement, not an option.Power Quotes"Your heart rhythm is a very important thing that people don't even pay attention to." - Alex Quin"It's okay to say no and it's okay to put yourself first." - Michelle ChiaConnect with Michelle:Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/michellechia)Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-chia1/)Connect With the Podcast Host Alex Quin:Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alexquin)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/mralexquin)LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mralexquin)Website: (https://alexquin.com)TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@mralexquin)Books Mentioned:Atomic Habits — James ClearThe Road Less Stupid — Keith J. CunninghamThe Surrender Experiment — Michael A. SingerNever Split the Difference — Chris VossHow to Market Your Restaurant Online — Alex QuinThe Digital Marketing Dictionary — Alex QuinPolo's Day at the Park — Alex Quin & Michelle's children's bookOur CommunityInstagram: (https://www.instagram.com/hustleinspireshustle)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/HustleInspires)LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/hustle-inspires-hustle)Website: (https://hustleinspireshustle.com)*This page may contain affiliate links or sponsored content. When you click on these links or engage with the sponsored content and make a purchase or take some other action, we may receive a commission or compensation at no additional cost to you. We only promote products or services that we genuinely believe will add value to our readers & listeners.*See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In today's episode of Insurance Town, Heath sits down with Paul Riemer, CEO of Riemer Insurance Group and Panther Insurance. Paul shares how his agency has grown through a commitment to relationships, community involvement, strategic niche markets, and a willingness to embrace innovation while maintaining a personal touch.As a second-generation insurance professional, Paul discusses the lessons learned from starting at the ground level, building trust with clients, developing strong teams, and navigating today's rapidly changing insurance marketplace.Key Topics Discussed:• Building a successful agency through relationships and community engagement• Opportunities emerging in challenging insurance markets• Growing through niche markets and specialized expertise• Creating a culture that attracts and retains great people• Balancing technology, AI, and personal service• Lessons learned from a family-owned insurance businessEpisode Timeline(0:01 - 1:57) Introduction & Sponsors (2:19 - 4:13) Paul's Introduction & Market Insights (6:04 - 8:01)Personal Background & Family Business (9:33 - 13:02)Challenges & Learning in Insurance (13:52 - 15:21)Agency Growth & Team Dynamics (19:29 - 20:57)Community Engagement & Relationship Building (43:00 - 44:28)Innovation & Maintaining the Personal Touch (47:43 - 49:35)Conclusion & Contact InformationThanks to our Sponsors:1fort AICanopy ConnectMavThe Sassy Happy

In this episode, Trey sits down with Andrew Wagley. Andrew shares his journey from insurance rookie to niche domination, building a successful agency with innovative SEO strategies and programmatic insurance solutions. Discover how he leverages relationships, technology, and niche focus to scale rapidly and efficiently as a one-man agency. Keywords:Insurance, Niche Markets, SEO, Agency Growth, Program Insurance, Home Care, Business Development, Industry RelationshipsKey TopicsBuilding niche insurance verticalsLeveraging relationships with underwritersImplementing SEO strategies for lead generationFocus on niche markets to accelerate growthBuild strong relationships with underwriters for program accessUse SEO to generate inbound leads at scaleFrom Rookie to Niche Leader: Andrew Wagley's Insurance Success StoryHow Andrew Wagley Built a 350-Client Home Care Insurance Empire"Nationwide SEO strategy for home care leads""The sky's the limit for agency growth""Retention rates are very high"Chapters00:00 Introduction to Andrew Wagley01:50 Andrew's Journey into Insurance04:19 Building a Successful Agency06:15 The Importance of Relationships in Insurance07:39 Expanding into New Verticals09:41 Leveraging SEO for Lead Generation12:37 Creating Exclusive Programs14:32Scaling the Business18:41 Retention and Client Relationships21:28 Exclusive Products and Partnerships25:12 Generalist vs. Niche Focus28:38 The Power of Consistency31:59 Challenges of Starting an Agency33:52 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs39:13 Key Takeaways for Success

Leidy Klotzis a behavioral scientist and engineering professor at the University of Virginia who studies how and why humans design. He has written for the Washington Post, Fast Company, Scientific American, and Harvard Business Review; has published his work in top journals like Nature and Science; and has been interviewed on Hidden Brain, Freakonomics, Mindscape, and The Atlantic's How to Build a Happy Life. Klotz has advised clients ranging from the Departments of Energy and Homeland Security to CapitalOne and Amazon.

Natty Lewis, an expert in leadership coaching powered by AI and technology, joins host Mike Stromsoe to break down the core principles of effective leadership, emotional intelligence, and organizational culture. We explore practical strategies to improve communication, navigate change, and build a workplace that feels both productive and sustainable.Key Topics:  • How understanding is the root of drama in organizations  • The importance of starting conversations at the beginning  • Strategies to create boundaries that protect performance and culture  • Building emotional consistency to lead without mood dependence  • Tolerating stress through sleep, sunlight, and hydration  • Managing change with empathy and clear communication  • The dangers of rescue and persecuting behaviors in teams  • Tips to expand your capacity to handle uncertainty and stress  • Transforming the perception of boundaries from restrictions to invitations  • The impact of understanding on reducing workplace dramaConnect with Daniel:LinkedInWebsiteConnect with Mike:LinkedInWebsiteIn this insightful episode, Natty Lewis provides actionable strategies to enhance leadership resilience and foster a thriving organizational culture. By focusing on understanding, communication, and emotional intelligence, leaders can create environments where teams flourish and challenges are met with confidence and clarity.

"If the opportunity doesn't exist, why not create it yourself?"In this episode of The Pacecast, Anita Pace is joined by Stephen Kenwright, marketing leader, agency founder and former co-owner of Rise at Seven.Stephen shares his journey from growing up in a working-class mining village to leading one of the UK's fastest-growing marketing agencies. He reflects on early career struggles, the moment he realised traditional paths weren't for him and how bold decisions shaped his success.From landing major clients within weeks, scaling to over 100 employees in just a few years and navigating burnout and exit decisions, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what it really takes to build and sell a successful agency.This is an insightful and unfiltered conversation about entrepreneurship, leadership, resilience and knowing when to step away.

The data is in – and it's not pretty.After surveying 303 agencies and consultancies through the Business Maturity Quiz, we've launched The Maturity Gap Report, revealing just how wide the gap really is between the firms where operations is a strength and everyone else.In this episode, Harv is joined by operations consultant Manish Kapur and FinOps expert Rich Brett to walk through the headline findings – and what they actually mean for the way your business is run. Here are a few of the headlines they discuss:Role clarity is rarer than you think – only 35% of firms have clearly defined roles, and the knock-on effects reach everything from project delivery to decision-making bottlenecksMost operational knowledge lives in people's heads – just 21% of firms have documented their best practices, leaving businesses one resignation away from losing it allAutomation remains an untapped opportunity – only one in eight firms have automated any meaningful part of how they work, in 2026Time tracking data is being wasted – 41% of firms track time accurately, but only 13% are using that data to make decisions or course-correct mid-projectForecasting with confidence is the exception, not the rule – only one in four firms can forecast margins, revenue, and capacity with any real certaintyScale readiness is a widespread concern – just 13% of firms believe their operating model is ready for what's aheadIf you want to know where your business sits against the 303 firms in the report – and what separates the top performers from the rest – this is the episode to start with.This was originally recorded as a live webinar – if you'd prefer to watch with the presentation slides, head to YouTube here: https://youtu.be/GfQ-raYcGQgReady to take action to level up?1) Take the business maturity quiz – https://bit.ly/assess-business-maturity2) Read The Maturity Gap Report – https://scoro.com/blog/maturity-gap3) Subscribe to The Handbook: The Ops Podcast for the upcoming maturity series – https://linktr.ee/handbookpodcastAdditional Resources:

Send us Fan MailEpisode 100: Back In TimeThis milestone episode of The Glint Standard takes you back to where it all began. Craig Lloyd and Jake Lloyd reflect on the founding of Glint Advertising in 2000, unpacking the motivations behind starting the agency, the pursuit of professional freedom, and the importance of building a business that supports family life. The episode blends strategic insight with real stories from 26 years in business, including early challenges, unexpected lessons, and moments that helped define the agency's direction. If you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating growth, this episode offers perspective grounded in experience.

Five events. Eight weeks. Zero excuses.If you're in ops, finance, or senior leadership at an agency or consulting firm – Harv runs through five upcoming events worth getting in your calendar right now.From the Maturity Gap Webinar (where the findings from the business maturity quiz finally get revealed) to the FinOps Conference, two intimate Handbook Breakfast Sessions in London, and – for the first time ever – a Breakfast Session in Manchester.Register as follows:1️⃣ The Maturity Gap Webinar, 15 Apr – https://bit.ly/the-maturity-gap 2️⃣ The Handbook: Breakfast Session 'Multi-Entity Madness', LDN, 23 Apr – https://bit.ly/breakfast-apr263️⃣ The FinOps Conference (50+ headcount businesses), LDN, 21 May – https://bit.ly/finops-conf4️⃣ The Handbook: Breakfast Session 'When Finance Met Ops', LDN, 28 May – Drop Harv a DM on LinkedIn to save you a seat! 5️⃣ The Handbook: Breakfast Session 'When Finance Met Ops', MCR, 3 Jun – Drop Harv a DM on LinkedIn to save you a seat! Hope to see you there! 

Joe Shelerud is joined by Mark Power, co-founder and Chief Engagement Officer at Podean — the global commerce agency that recently acquired Ad Advance — for a candid conversation about building agencies from the ground up and why culture is the most underrated competitive advantage.Key Takeaways:Mark's 30-year journey from B2B email marketing in London → content marketing → IPG → founding Podean with co-founder Travis JohnsonWhy Amazon is more than a sales channel — and the gap Podean was built to fill"Positive Energy" as a cultural umbrella — how Podean distilled its values into something every team member, across every acquired company, can rally behindThe real markers of cultural health — including why the first 3–4 weeks of a new hire tells you everythingRemote culture done right — what actually works when your team is virtual and globalTransparency = Trust — why sharing the bad news openly builds more loyalty than a polished internal comms strategy ever willNavigating acquisitions — how Podean is integrating Ad Advance and Commerce Canal without an "our way or the highway" mindsetWhat's coming next — a new show hosted by Mark Power and Podean co-founder Ryan Craver, going beyond advertising into broader commerce and industry trendsIf you're building a team, scaling an agency, or navigating a merger, this episode is packed with practical wisdom from two founders who've lived it.

In this episode, Mike Stromsoe and Jesse Parenti explore the pitfalls of being a generalist in insurance, the power of niche specialization, and strategies to build credibility and authority in the industry. They share insights on how focusing on a niche can accelerate success, leverage technology, and create predictable pipelines.Key Highlights:The pitfalls of being a generalist in insuranceThe importance of niche specialization for growthStrategies to build credibility and authorityLeveraging technology and AI to accelerate successCreating predictable pipelines and high-value relationshipsChapters00:00 Introduction to Specialization in Insurance03:07 The Downfall of Generalists05:48 Building Authority and Credibility08:55 The Power of Niche Marketing11:54 The Quote Machine Trap14:52 Empowering Producers Through Focus17:58 The Importance of Problem Solving21:04 Finding Your Niche24:03 Leveraging Technology for Success26:54 Positioning Language in Sales29:52 The Pathway to Niche Success32:54 Conclusion and Call to Action

Did you like the episode? Send me a text and let me know!! Where Are They Now? Catching Up With Christy O'Connor | Episode Skooby reunites with marketing veteran Christy O'Connor, President & CEO of O'conCo Marketing, to discuss business growth, AI automation, scaling with intention, and the foundations every new entrepreneur needs.  

In the fast-evolving landscape of the independent insurance industry, one crucial question emerges: How can agencies effectively blend human work with machine capabilities? In this post, we're diving deep into the distinct roles of humans and machines in insurance agencies, exploring the potential for increased efficiency and enhanced client relationships. Let's break down the insights shared by industry experts in the latest Scale Your Insurance Agency podcast.Understanding the Roles of Humans and MachinesThe conversation about machine work versus human work is more pertinent than ever in the insurance sector. Machines are designed to remove friction in operations, while humans excel at building trust and nurturing relationships. This balance is essential for agency leaders who want to leverage technology without losing the personal touch that clients value.Human Work: Building Trust and RelationshipsHuman work in an insurance agency encompasses tasks like:Judgment and Understanding: Assessing client needs for coverage options.Creativity: Crafting tailored solutions for diverse client scenarios.Relationship Management: Nurturing long-term client relationships.These elements underscore the importance of human interaction in a field that relies heavily on trust and personalized service. As the industry becomes more complex, freeing up human agents from repetitive tasks is crucial for them to focus on these critical aspects.Machine Work: Enhancing EfficiencyMachines excel at repetitive, rules-based tasks. Here's how agencies can leverage technology:Automating Routine Tasks: Data entry, document chasing, and renewals can be automated, allowing agents to focus on client engagement.Creating Playbooks: Instead of rigid standard operating procedures, agencies can develop flexible playbooks that guide machine operations while allowing for adaptability.By employing machines for these tasks, agencies can significantly increase efficiency and reduce the time spent on mundane tasks, ultimately leading to higher productivity.The Importance of Intentional SeparationOne of the key insights shared in the podcast is the necessity of intentionally separating machine work from human work. This intentionality allows agencies to:Maximize Efficiency: By ensuring that machines handle only repetitive tasks, human agents can dedicate their time to higher-value activities.Enhance Client Interactions: With more time freed up, agents can strengthen relationships with clients, leading to better service and increased retention.As the independent insurance industry evolves, so must the strategies employed by agencies. By understanding the balance between machine work and human work, agency leaders can enhance efficiency, reclaim valuable time, and ultimately foster stronger client relationships. Embrace the future of insurance by leveraging technology to create a more productive and client-focused agency.Are you ready to make this transition?Schedule Your Onyx Scaling Session Today: https://upponyx.com/

Learn the small shift that makes referrals repeatable. Check out our new video training: https://hey.salesschema.com/opt-in-mw-referral-engine?utm_source=podcast--Most agencies treat the RFP as the cost of doing business. Chris Rose has built a career out of sidestepping them entirely — landing clients like Hilton, Planet Fitness, and NBC Universal along the way.Chris serves as Executive Director of Growth at Cylinder Studios, a design and production studio within the Cheil Agency Network. Before that, he led new business at Movers and Shakers. We got into why RFPs are almost always poorly written, how to bypass procurement with preferred vendor status, what's changing with AI and pricing, and why the best pitch teams are smaller than you'd think.What You'll Leave With:- Diagnose before you pitch — co-write the brief with the client- Become a preferred vendor to bypass procurement- Smaller pitch teams win more- Production is the new strategy- Stay close to the work after you win itConnect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-rose22/Cylinder Studios: https://www.cylinderstudios.com/

FREE TRAINING — Last Minute Life Push- How to Finish Q1 StrongTurn conversations you're already having into life insurance sales before the quarter ends.

Welcome to another episode of Build a Better Agency! This week, host Drew McLellan sits down with agency owner and behavioral science expert Nancy Harhut to unlock the hidden forces behind human decision-making—and how they impact your agency's marketing success. Drawing on her years of experience and her deep dive into the psychology of persuasion, Nancy brings a fresh perspective on why people do what they do—and how marketers can ethically harness those instincts to drive action.  In this episode, Nancy breaks down the fundamentals of behavioral science, emphasizing the powerful shortcuts our brains take when making decisions. Together, Drew and Nancy explore concepts like autonomy bias, social proof, and left-digit pricing, providing practical strategies for agencies to leverage these psychological triggers in everything from copywriting to pricing models. Whether it's using testimonials the right way, framing choices to nudge conversions, or tapping into the subtle cues that build trust, Nancy's real-world examples and research-backed tips are sure to spark new ideas.  They also tackle the big question of technology's role in the age of AI—exploring how artificial intelligence can support (but not replace) the human art of persuasion. Plus, they discuss how behavioral science applies across both B2B and B2C spaces, and offer actionable advice for getting clients on board with a more psychologically informed approach to marketing.  If you're ready to move beyond generic messaging and start connecting with your audience on a deeper, more instinctive level, this episode is a must-listen. By the end, you'll have a toolkit of proven tactics you can apply to your agency's work immediately—boosting engagement, persuasion, and results for both you and your clients. A big thank you to our podcast's presenting sponsor, White Label IQ. They're an amazing resource for agencies who want to outsource their design, dev, or PPC work at wholesale prices. Check out their special offer (10 free hours!) for podcast listeners here. What You Will Learn in This Episode: Defining behavioral science and its impact on marketing   The role of decision-making shortcuts in human behavior Leveraging autonomy bias and providing choices to increase engagement Harnessing the power (and pitfalls) of social proof and testimonials Overcoming buying barriers by identifying "why-not" reasons Applying behavioral science tactics to pricing and perception Using reasoned explanations ("because") to boost compliance and sales

Learn the small shift that makes referrals repeatable. Check out our new video training: https://hey.salesschema.com/opt-in-mw-referral-engine?utm_source=podcast--Most agency owners assume nobody can sell as well as they can. Lori Cox built an agency, sold it, and then took a BizDev leadership role — and says she's actually sharper at sales now that she's not running the whole show.Lori brings 20+ years of B2B marketing and revenue experience. She built and sold a full-service healthcare-focused agency, then moved into VP of BizDev at Knack Collective, where she works with global tech companies on partner-led go-to-market strategies. We got into the systems that made her agency sellable, why most partnership pitches go nowhere, and how the inbound/outbound mix has shifted heading into 2026.What You'll Leave With:Systems before salespeoplePartnerships require intention and attentionDiversify your pipeline, not just your client baseNon-owners can be better salespeopleAI is changing the job, not replacing itConnect with Lori on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lori-cox-mba/Knack Collective: https://knackcollective.com/

How do you find employees who care as much as the founders? And in an AI-driven world, should you stick to traditional SEO or pivot to Answer Engine Optimization (AEO)?In this episode of Building MarsBased, CEO Alex Rodriguez Bacardit answers two deep-dive questions from the agency community. We explore the "Champion" profile, why former freelancers and entrepreneurs are the secret to delegation, and how MarsBased hit 30 people in 2025 by restructuring their leadership.We also discuss the marketing strategy behind their new spin-off, GPT apps. Alex explains why they are using paid ads for the first time in 12 years and how to optimize your content so AI bots recommend your brand.Support the show

Can your business make a million in one year?Most people will say no. Not because it's impossible, but because they're thinking about it the wrong way. Making your first $1 Million is not about hustle. It's not about stacking side projects. It's not about 14 income streams and burnout disguised as ambition.It's about leverage.Leverage over effort.Outcomes over deliverables.Focus over distraction.If your income is tied directly to your time, you're capped. If you're solving small problems, you're paid small money. If you're scattered across too many offers, too many audiences, too many channels, you're diluted.The path to $1 Million requires three uncomfortable shifts:Obsess over leverage, not effort.Solve a $10 Million problem to earn $1 Million.Go narrower to go bigger with one flagship offer, one defined buyer, and one primary distribution engine.This episode also confronts the uncomfortable truth about wealth: if it costs you your family, your health, or your identity, that's not success. That's ego dressed up as ambition. The real question becomes this: " If you had to build a $1 Million business with only one offer, one audience, and one channel… what would you choose?"Your answer will reveal everything...What You'll Learn:Why leverage beats effort if you want real scaleHow to reverse-engineer $1 Million without the hustle trapThe “solve a $10 Million problem” mindset shiftWhy outcomes sell and deliverables get negotiated downHow focus becomes your unfair advantage when discomfort hitsThe one-offer, one-audience, one-channel test that clarifies everythingHow to build recurring revenue while protecting your energyBeyond The Episode Gems:Buy My Book, Strategize Up: The Blueprint To Scale Your Business: StrategizeUpBook.comDiscover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast NetworkGet Free HubSpot Marketing Tools To Help You Grow Your BusinessGrow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM PlatformListen to My First Million on the HubSpot Podcast NetworkSupport The Podcast & Connect With Troy: Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/ReviewsFollow Troy's Socials @FindTroy: LinkedIn, Instagram, Threads, TikTokSubscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel For Strategy Videos & See Masterclass EpisodesNeed Growth Strategy, A Keynote Speaker, Or Want To Sponsor The Podcast? Go To FindTroy.com

UNLOCK THE 13 SYSTEMS EVERY AGENCY OWNER NEEDS TO REACH 8 FIGURES:https://bit.ly/41Sm05NIn this episode, Jordan Ross sits down with Jason Hennessey, founder of Hennessey Digital, to unpack what it really takes to scale a digital agency to multi–eight figures and successfully exit to private equity—without burning out or losing your life in the process.Jason shares his 24-year “overnight success” journey, from running a standard SEO agency to intentionally building the “Lamborghini dealership of legal marketing.” He breaks down the mindset, systems, people strategy, and long-term intentionality required to move from six figures → seven figures → eight figures → exit.This is not a hype-filled growth story. It's a deep, honest masterclass on:Why most agencies fail to scale past $10MHow to hire and retain true A-playersThe hidden dangers of fast growthThe role of personal brand in enterprise-level deal flowHow intention, accountability, and resilience shape long-term successIf you're an agency owner trying to break through the next revenue ceiling—or thinking about a future exit—this episode delivers real-world lessons from someone who's done it twice.Chapters – Why Multi–Eight-Figure Agency Exits Are Rare – Jason Hennessey's 24-Year “Overnight Success” – The Second Bite of the Apple (Private Equity Strategy) – Running Multiple Successful Businesses Without Burnout – Replacing Yourself to Scale Past $10M – The Real Phases of Agency Growth (6 → 7 → 8 Figures) – Cash Flow Stress at Scale (More Money, More Problems) – Seeing the Game Like an Executive Strategist – Product Obsession vs. Sales-Led Agencies – Personal Brand as a Long-Term Growth Engine – Designing the Agency You Actually Want to Run – KPI-Driven Growth & Department Accountability – Hiring A-Players and Accepting Lower Margins – Why Most Agencies Can't Retain Talent – Paying Above Market & Retaining Rockstars – Creating a Future That Didn't Exist – Running a Business for Profitability Before Exit – Staying Grounded When Life Disrupts Business – Learning from Failure Instead of Avoiding It – Accountability Systems That Keep Founders on Track – Designing a Life Beyond the Business – Daily Habits & Creative Focus for FoundersTo learn more go to 8figureagency.coTo reach Jason - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jhennessey/ - jasonhennessey.com

This episode of The FinTech Hunting Podcast delivers a no-fluff, high-impact breakdown of what mortgage professionals need to know to stay competitive in today's rapidly evolving market.Host Michael Hammond is joined by Eloise Schmitz, CEO and Co-Founder of LoanNEX, for an expert analysis on the forces reshaping mortgage lending in 2026 — from non-agency momentum and pricing execution to investor eligibility and tech-driven innovation.If you're in lending, capital markets, or fintech, this isn't just another industry update — it's your playbook for the year ahead.What You'll Learn in This Episode:Why non-agency originations doubled year over year — and what's driving the shiftHow execution certainty is reshaping loan officer strategies and secondary market decisionsBehind the numbers: 11,000+ users across 400+ lenders on the LoanNEX platformThe rise of exception-based workflows — and why 30% of non-QM volume depends on itHow stable mortgage rates near 6% are reigniting borrower activityThe role of ICE Technology's Encompass, TPO Connect, MeridianLink, and Laramac in modern pricing enginesGrowth in unique loan programs: doctor loans, investment properties, cannabis income underwritingWhere capital markets innovation is heading in 2026 — and what lenders must do nowWho This Episode is For:Secondary marketing teams focused on pricing strategy and investor executionLoan officers needing better tools to compete in the non-agency spaceFintech leaders tracking tech stack integrations and lock desk automationMortgage executives shaping 2026 strategy in a volatile lending landscapeAnyone looking to understand the real-world impact of capital markets transformation.“Execution certainty isn't just a pricing tool. It's a market differentiator.”— Eloise Schmitz, CEO, LoanNEXStay informed. Get ahead.This is your insider view of what's next in mortgage lending.Learn more at: https://loannex.com

Agency Growth and Challenges in Medicare Industry | Agent Boost InsightsJoin Agent Boost's in-depth discussion on the challenges and opportunities facing agency owners in the Medicare industry. Dan and Mike break down the current market landscape, the importance of mindset, and strategies for building a successful agency. They explore the differences between running a lifestyle business versus a professional, growth-oriented company. With valuable insights into mergers and acquisitions, reimbursement changes from CMS, and the impact on healthcare stocks, this episode is a valuable resource for anyone looking to navigate and succeed in the insurance sector. Stay tuned for announcements about upcoming training workshops and how to position yourself for long-term success.

UNLOCK THE 13 SYSTEMS EVERY AGENCY OWNER NEEDS TO REACH 8 FIGURES:https://bit.ly/41Sm05NIn this episode, Jordan Ross sits down with Jason Shafton, founder of Winston Francois, to unpack how to build a modern marketing agency holding company in the age of AI. From automating agency operations to diversifying revenue through holding structures, they break down what it takes to lead in a world where AI is no longer optional — it's the new baseline.Jason shares how he went from leading growth at Google to building a future-ready consultancy using AI-powered systems, automation strategies, and multi-agency scaling models. If you're a PE-backed founder, agency operator, or just AI-curious, this episode dives into tactical, financial, and strategic shifts needed to stay competitive over the next 3–5 years.Whether you're searching for insights on AI for agency growth, automation in client delivery, or diversification through holding companies, this episode is a blueprint for the next generation of agency leadership.Chapters:Jason Shafton's Journey: Google to AI ConsultancyEvolving Winston Francois: From Strategy to AutomationMarketing Agency Holding Companies: Structures & DiversificationAI Systems for Operational EfficiencyTactical Upgrades for Agency OpsWhat the Future of Agencies Looks Like in an AI-Driven WorldLong-Term Thinking: Legacy & Financial StrategyTo learn more go to 8figureagency.coReach Jason at :Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonshaftonWinston Francois - https://wf.team/podFrank Growth - https://frankgrowth.com

Send us a textCan you build a multi-million dollar marketing agency without burning out — while raising kids? In this episode, Jen interviews Kym Asana, founder of Always On Digital, about the real-life systems behind her agency's growth: flexible team schedules, trust-based management, smart hiring decisions, and the mindset shift that helps you scale beyond “it all depends on me.”You'll hear how Kym went from NYC advertising to building a woman-owned agency on her own terms, plus the #1 marketing mistake she sees businesses make when they want results fast.ALL THE LINKS MENTIONED: https://jenvazquez.com/build-a-7-figure-marketing-agency-without-burnout-with-kym-insanaTransform your service-based business with valuable insights and actionable strategies on how to find, attract, and book your ideal clients at our marketing summit.https://creativemarketingsummit.com FREE Marketing Summit: https://creativemarketingsummit.com

In this episode of Know Your Risk and Insurance Coverage, host Kyle Watts talks with Matt Sasso, Executive Director of RiskProNet, to reflect on a transformative year for the network—and lay out what's ahead in 2026.From a complete brand refresh and a new website to adding four new member agencies, launching new practice groups, and expanding corporate partnerships, RiskProNet has solidified itself as a nimble, collaborative force in the independent insurance landscape.If you're part of the RiskProNet network—or considering joining—this conversation outlines everything you need to know about how the group is growing, modernizing, and creating new opportunities for its members across the country.Timecodes:00:00 – 01:10 - Podcast intro and episode overview01:11 – 02:47 - Why the rebrand? A new logo, colors, and market positioning02:48 – 03:56 - Member-led brand refresh process with creative collaboration03:57 – 05:29 - Four new agencies in 2025: who they are and why they joined05:30 – 06:59 - Key regions targeted for 2026 membership expansion07:00 – 08:59 - New practice groups launching in 2026: surety, sales, nonprofit & more09:00 – 10:50 - CIO, AI, and Risk Control groups: tech-driven collaboration for agencies10:51 – 12:33 - Corporate partnerships: what they bring and what's coming12:34 – 14:07 - Two big wins from 2025: quality growth and strategic alignment14:08 – 15:31 - Practice groups as a value engine—for both leadership and frontline staff15:32 – 16:53 - New website and mobile app: modern tools for member access16:54 – 17:25 - Shoutout to Patti Reed for her leadership on the site launch17:26 – 18:23 - Final reflections on 2025 and closing remarks for the yearResources:Become a member at RiskProNet.comConnect with Matt Sasso on LinkedInConnect with RiskProNet on LinkedIn

What actually drives agency growth when pipelines are noisy, buyers are skeptical, and everyone sounds the same?In this episode, Dan Englander sits down with Alex Marshall, a longtime agency growth leader with two decades of experience across holding companies and independents, to unpack what really moves the needle. They explore why trust and relevance matter more than tactics, how storytelling shows up late in the sales cycle, and why relationships compound over time even when results aren't immediate.This is a grounded conversation about growth as a discipline, not a hack. 

For years, Matt Rooney did what a lot of capable recruiters do. He stayed busy. Took the work that came in. Said yes more often than he should have. Inside private equity, that turned him into what he later called a "utility recruiter". Useful, but reactive. Some years were strong. Others weren't. And it never quite felt like a real partnership with clients. Two decisions changed the direction of his business. Matt narrowed his focus to one role inside private equity: business development and deal origination. Then he made the shift from contingent to retained. Today, Matt is the founder of Coastal Partners. He's gone from closing 3–4 retained searches in his first year as a specialist to being on track for 10 retained searches this year, with the majority of his work now retained. In this episode of The Resilient Recruiter, Matt breaks down what actually made that transition possible. Not theory. Not scripts. Real decisions, real resistance, and what changed once clients started committing up front. This conversation is especially relevant if you run a recruitment agency, lead a small firm, or feel stuck in feast-or-famine despite working hard. What you'll learn: Why being a "utility recruiter" keeps agencies reactive What changed when Matt stopped taking every job How he handled the "no retained experience" objection Why specialisation built confidence and credibility fast How original market data helped him become a trusted partner Why predictability mattered more than volume Episode timestamps: [00:33] Why does contingent feel reactive [03:02] How Matt fell into recruitment [07:11] Feeling stuck as a utility recruiter [12:44] Resisting the idea of niching down [15:18] Why specialisation changed client relationships [19:03] Making the move to retained [20:39] First retained searches and predictability [27:40] Mapping the market and building authority [34:16] Publishing hiring reports and compensation data [35:25] Launching the Deal Sourcery podcast [50:31] Hosting a live panel at a PE conference [55:56] Why Matt would specialise sooner Guest bio: Matt Rooney is the founder of Coastal Partners and specialises exclusively in business development and deal origination roles within private equity. After nearly a decade recruiting across PE functions, Matt made the decision to focus on one specialty. In his first year as a retained specialist, he closed 3-4 retained searches. This year, he's on track to close 10, with the majority of his business now retained. Matt has become a recognised authority in his niche through original market research, publishing quarterly BD hiring reports and an annual compensation survey. He co-hosts the Deal Sourcery podcast with Dan Her—the only podcast dedicated specifically to business development professionals in private equity. Connect with Matt: LinkedIn: Matt Rooney Coastal Partners: website Deal Sourcery Podcast: website About The Resilient Recruiter: The Resilient Recruiter is a weekly podcast for recruitment agency owners and search firm leaders building sustainable, profitable businesses. Host Mark Whitby interviews industry leaders who share the strategies, systems, and mindsets behind their success—including the mistakes they made along the way. Learn from their experience to avoid the pitfalls and accelerate your results.. Since 2001, Mark has coached over 800 recruitment business owners across 34 countries. The podcast brings you the same frameworks and insights Mark teaches in his coaching programs—free every week. Connect with Mark: Free strategy session: recruitmentcoach.com/strategy-session LinkedIn: Mark Whitby Instagram: @RecruitmentCoach Subscribe to The Resilient Recruiter for weekly conversations with recruitment leaders who are building businesses that give them freedom, profit, and lasting impact. If you want to future-proof your recruitment business without burning out, this episode is a must-listen.

What if we told you that the whole concept of work-life balance sets us up for disappointment? Brace yourselves for an enlightening discussion where we challenge the narratives surrounding pursuing a harmonious life and the misconceptions about entrepreneurship. We dive into honest conversations about the grind in reaching our life goals and the sacrifices we need to make for long-term success. It's not about working 24 hours a month and expecting a rosy life, it's about understanding that success demands effort.We're not here to sugarcoat things. Starting a business is not as simple as leaving your 9 to 5 job and suddenly having a Ferrari in your garage. We must prioritize and manage our time effectively, making strategic decisions about what we're willing to give up for the sake of our dreams. And most importantly, how we spend our time now will determine our growth and success in the future. So, are you spending time on activities that fuel your growth, or are you wasting your potential? Let's take a hard look at ourselves and our routines. It's time to break free from the illusion of work-life balance and step into the reality of what it takes to elevate ourselves, our brand truly, and our agency. This episode is NOT sponsored. Some product links are affiliate links, meaning we'll receive a small commission if you buy something.===========================⚡️PODCAST: Subscribe to our podcast here ➡ https://elevatemedia.buzzsprout.com/⚡️Need post-recording video production help? Let's chat ➡ https://calendly.com/elevate-media-group/application⚡️For Support inquires or Business inquiries, please email us at ➡︎ support@elevate-media-group.comOur mission here at Elevate Media is to help purpose-driven entrepreneurs elevate their brands and make an impact through the power of video podcasting.Disclaimer: Please see the link for our disclaimer policy for all our episodes or videos on the Elevate Media and Elevate Media Podcast YouTube channels. https://elevatemediastudios.com/disclaimer Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training What if growth doesn't make things easier but actually just raises the stakes? Agency life looks glamorous from the outside, but the real growth usually starts in the messy middle. Today's featured guest just wanted to build something of her own, but quickly learned that growth means the challenges get harder, instead of easier, and that your client and team retention will always be the best measures of success, since it means you've managed to build a business that has a real impact on clients and a culture people never want to leave. She'll share the pressure she felt as the agency got bigger, how she learned to celebrate the little wins, and how she built a culture that has truly worked as a strategic advantage. Elyse Lupin is the president and founder of Elysium Marketing Group, a full-service agency specializing in food and franchise marketing. With more than a decade of running the business, she has scaled from a new mom charging a thousand bucks for her first client to leading a well known, franchise-focused marketing team recognized for expertise, execution, and a culture clients genuinely enjoy working with. In this episode, we'll discuss: Why growth gets harder as your agency scales. 2 metrics that actually predict agency success. How culture became her agency's competitive advantage. The importance of letting go instead of babysitting tasks. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service. How Mentoring Can Be the Push You Need Elyse started her agency during what most people would consider the absolute worst time to make a career change. She had a newborn, a mortgage, and a job that drained her every morning as she left her child in daycare. That friction reached a breaking point. A mentor tossed out traditional job options, but Elyse surprised even herself when she said, "I just want to start my own thing." Instead of talking her out of it, that mentor became her first client. It's one of those decisions you look back on and realize how thin the line is between staying stuck and building something you love. In the early days, she charged way too little, as nearly all agency owners do for those first engagements. But like she said, ignorance can be a gift. When you are early and scrappy, you move fast and celebrate every small win because you have no idea what's coming next. Why Growth Gets Harder, Not Easier After eleven years, Elyse said she was shocked by how the difficulty of running an agency evolves. Things do get easier in some ways, but each stage comes with a new complexity level. As the agency grew, so did the pressure to hire better people, keep up quality, retain clients, and juggle new demands that never existed in the early days. You go from hands-on fulfillment to team building to culture shaping to visionary leadership. Each level is a different skill set and none of it is simple. Scaling is not a victory lap. It is a longer, more strategic version of the same game you started with: solve the next problem without losing momentum. For Elyse, it's all about stopping to celebrate the little wins and let herself enjoy watching her team crush new challenges. 2 Metrics That Predict Agency Success: Client and Team Retention A lot of agency owners fall into the trap of measuring success by employee count or top line revenue. Elyse prefers to track retention. She considers it far more meaningful. Clients only stick around if they are getting results and some of her clients have been with her agency since the beginning. Employee retention matters just as much, because no amount of growth means anything if the team delivering the work is burning out or bailing. Even during COVID, when most of their food clients disappeared overnight, Elyse's agency found a way to pivot into B2B, protect the team, and still grow. Not at the same pace, but still upward. That speaks to culture, resilience, and leadership. In the end, what really matters is how happy you are in the business, whether or not your team is happy, and how profitable the business actually is. These are the things that will guarantee you stay in business and not start to resent it. How Culture Becomes an Agency's Competitive Advantage Elyse's agency has a spirit week. costume day. concert tshirt day. team jersey day. They joke about team members hearing her excitement through the office walls. But behind the fun is something serious. A happy team performs better, stays longer, and delivers higher quality work. She also implemented rituals that reinforce positivity and growth. Every Friday on remote days, they kick off with Wins of the Week. Team members spotlight others who went above and beyond, which forces everyone to pause and recognize progress. Then there is Elysium Advancement, a bi-weekly internal training where someone teaches a new AI tool or system. It keeps the whole agency sharp without overwhelming everyone with the nonstop flood of new tech. Finding the Balance Between a Remote and In-Person Team Elyse's agency is in office Monday through Thursday and remote on Fridays. She believes their productivity is higher together, especially since half the business is design focused. Instead of 15 email threads, they solve problems in 30 second conversations. Some teams thrive remote. Others thrive together. The important thing is knowing which one your agency needs. For them, an in-person environment helps them move faster and design better. Letting Go: Building Leaders Instead of Babysitting Tasks Most agency founders struggle with this. Elyse has built three strong department heads who now own their areas. Sure, she still has a hand in more than she probably should, but the structure is finally allowing her to think bigger instead of babysitting tasks. She also knows what her team would tell her to stop doing. Being too loud in the office. Which, as problems go, is one of the funnier ones. The Power of Picking a Niche Years ago, Elyse heard this very podcast's advice about niching down and resisted it. Like most agency owners, she felt her client base was too broad to narrow down. After COVID, she finally made the leap and put a stake in the ground around franchise marketing. She got her Certified Franchise Executive credential, doubled down on franchising events, and made franchise marketing a core part of the brand. And the decision paid off immediately. Franchise systems want a partner who understands their world, their FDDs, their local store marketing needs, and their complexity. Her agency became that partner. And with that clarity came authority, opportunity, and recognition. Niching did not reduce her client pool. It strengthened her position and made her easier to hire. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

Points of Interest0:01 – 01:27 – Introduction: Marcel welcomes returning guest Vito Peleg, CEO of Atarim, and frames the conversation around how agencies can streamline creative collaboration and leverage AI to improve delivery efficiency and profitability.01:28 – 03:27 – From Touring Musician to Collaboration Software Founder: Vito shares his backstory as a touring musician building websites from a van, then running a web agency, and how constant friction getting clients to give timely, clear feedback led to the first version of Atarim as a WordPress plugin.03:27 – 06:46 – The True Cost of Collaboration on Delivery Timelines: Marcel highlights how reducing delivery time by 50–70% transforms profit and cash flow, and Vito reframes the issue by showing that collaboration with clients and stakeholders routinely increases project timelines by 500–700%.06:46 – 10:06 – Why Text-Based Feedback Breaks Creative Work: Vito explains that human feedback is naturally three to five words and visual, but agencies force clients into long, text-heavy descriptions via email, docs, and tickets, creating procrastination, dead time, and constant misalignment.08:39 – 10:06 – Vague Feedback and Week-Long Clarification Cycles: Citing Atarim's data, Vito notes that 68% of creative comments written in text are too vague to action on first pass, leading to clarification cycles that typically add a full week to even simple tasks like updating a slide.10:12 – 15:07 – Building Momentum and “Two Days and a Weekend”: In response to Marcel's question about where agencies lose the most efficiency, Vito argues the biggest gap is at project start and introduces the “two days and a weekend” framing plus fast, simple deliverables (like a sitemap) to create momentum and urgency.15:15 – 17:28 – Getting Imperfect Work in Front of Clients Early: Marcel and Vito discuss reframing early deliverables explicitly as rough first passes so clients expect to react rather than receive perfection, reducing sunk-cost risk and speeding up alignment on direction.17:28 – 24:49 – How AI Is Compressing Build Time and Changing UI: Vito describes the evolution from hand-coded sites to drag-and-drop builders and now prompt-driven interfaces, arguing that AI will shrink creation time so dramatically that collaboration will become an even larger relative drag on projects.22:29 – 25:56 – The Future of Figma, Builders, and Dynamic Interfaces: Vito predicts that the traditional Figma-to-dev pipeline will erode as tools let teams go from prompt to production UI, while Marcel adds a Google perspective on a future where AI dynamically renders interfaces tailored to each user.30:37 – 37:42 – Agencies as Orchestrators of AI Agents, Not Just Humans: Vito outlines a future where agency owners orchestrate a team of AI agents instead of being the “talent,” potentially pricing work by tokens instead of dev hours, and using agents to automate follow-ups, support, and clarification cycles like Atarim's Claro.39:14 – 45:19 – Atarim's Agentic Creative Team Vision and Next Steps: Vito explains how Atarim is building a multi-human, multi-agent collaboration environment where specialized AI teammates (design, accessibility, performance, PM) work together in threads, and invites listeners to explore the early-access experience at Atarim.io.Show NotesConnect with Vito via LinkedInWebsite: Atarim.ioLove the PodcastLeave us a review here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

There's a stage in agency growth that looks successful on the outside but feels limiting on the inside. You're delivering great work, clients are happy, and your reputation is solid… yet you're still underpriced, overextended, and not seen as the strategic partner you know you are.This silent slowdown has a name: the value gap and most agencies stay in it far longer than they realize.In this episode of the Small But Mighty Agency Podcast, we unpack why this happens and how it ties directly to the three levels of competitive power that agencies move through as they grow. Most agencies unknowingly get stuck in the middle level, where their work is good enough to grow, but their positioning quietly caps their value.In this episode, we explore:Why “good work” is no longer enough to stand outThe 3 levels of agency competitive power and where most firms plateauThe shift from selling deliverables to selling outcomesWhy premium pricing follows transformation, not effortHow specialization becomes strategic leverageWhen you get clear on the big outcome you deliver, everything starts to line up. You can see what conditions need to be in place, who's actually a right-fit client, and where your best results come from.At that point, growth isn't about doing more work. It's about solving a bigger, more meaningful problem that earns higher value.Listen in to explore where your agency sits today and what it takes to move beyond the ceiling.Show Notes:The Hands off CEO book: handsoffceo.com/book Mandi's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mandiellefsonHey thanks for hanging out with me at the Small But Mighty Podcast. If you enjoyed this episode it would mean the world to me if you hit the follow or subscribe button in your podcast app and share it with a friend. And I'll see you on the next one. Get the full show notes and more information here: https://audreyjoykwan.com/podcast/ep141Podcast Edits by Lindsay Curtis

Send us a textWhen your agency is growing, but profit stalls, client churn rises, and your team feels the pressure, it's easy to wonder which lever to pull next. In this episode, I'm joined by Jeremy Shapiro, a seasoned serial entrepreneur with 25+ years of experience whose work has helped business owners break through growth plateaus using a simple, powerful framework he calls the Business Growth Playbook.We break down the practical levers behind profit expansion, customer lifetime value, pricing strategy, and the hidden churn patterns that quietly cap your growth. If you've been relying on more leads to fix what is actually a systems, retention, or profitability bottleneck, this conversation brings the clarity you've been looking for.You'll walk away with tactical steps you can implement immediately, from value-based pricing to tightening your retention engine, so you can scale with intention, increase profitability, and build a healthier, more sustainable agency.BOOKS MENTIONEDYour Business Growth Playbook by Jeremy ShapiroGet your hands on Jeremy's full playbook of tried and true strategies today in his latest book Your Business Growth Playbook available on Amazon or at your local bookstore. If you'd like a sample of his book right now, an audio overview of the entire playbook, and your very own complimentary growth checklist, visit YourBusinessGrowthPlaybook.com right now. You can also connect with him on LinkedIn at LinkedIn.com/in/jeremyshapiro/Join Dr. William Attaway on the Catalytic Leadership podcast as he shares transformative insights to help high-performance entrepreneurs and agency owners achieve Clear-Minded Focus, Calm Control, and Confidence. Free 30-Minute Discovery Call:Ready to elevate your business? Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Dr. William Attaway and start your journey to success. Special Offer:Get your FREE copy of Catalytic Leadership: 12 Keys to Becoming an Intentional Leader Who Makes a Difference. Connect with Dr. William Attaway: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube

UNLOCK THE 13 SYSTEMS EVERY AGENCY OWNER NEEDS TO REACH 8 FIGURES:https://bit.ly/41Sm05NIn this episode, we break down the 13 systems every marketing agency must master to scale beyond 7 figures without burning out. If your agency feels like a 40–70 hour-a-week grind, this episode is for you. We cover financial health, stress management, marketing, sales, client retention, hiring, and strategic planning—everything needed to run a business that works without you.Learn how top agencies create predictability, maximize profits, retain clients, and build teams that deliver results while giving founders the freedom to take real vacations and focus on growth.If you want to see which systems might be silently sabotaging your agency, check out the free custom agency diagnostic linked below—probably the most valuable 10 minutes you'll spend this year.Chapters – Financial Health – Time & Stress Management – Marketing & Positioning – Predictable, Quality Lead Generation – Sales Operations That Close Efficiently – Cohesive, Documented Core Processes – Delegation and Accountability at Scale – Metrics That Drive Performance – Client Retention and Expansion – Hiring and Training Excellence – Strategic Planning Mastery – Innovation & Product Development – Culture & LeadershipTo learn more go to 8figureagency.co

Would you like access to our advanced agency training for FREE? https://www.agencymastery360.com/training Would you say your agency is truly profitable? Take a closer look and assess its structure, systems, and tools through the lens of business maturity. You may find you're still in the chaos stage, in need of structure and vision. Running an agency often starts with passion and talent, but keeping it running smoothly takes systems, leadership, and a strong operational backbone. This operational maturity doesn't happen overnight. As today's featured guest knows well, it's a process of reflection, restructuring, and relentless improvement. Harv Nagra is the Head of Brand Communications at Scoro and host of The Handbook: The Operations Podcast, where he explores how agencies and consultancies build scalable, profitable operations. As someone who has spent his career at the intersection of creativity, consultancy, and operations, he'll discuss the key stages of agency growth, the pitfalls of immature operations, and the leadership mindset required to scale sustainably. In this episode, we'll discuss: Understanding the agency maturity model. Evolving your agency from chaos to clarity. Growing your leadership to create framework. Data and the path to predictability. Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service. Why Most Agency Founders Aren't Natural Operators Harv has been in the agency space for most of his career, working in marketing and design, and, although he currently works as Brand Communicator for Scoro, he keeps his finger on the pulse of the industry via his podcast The Handbook, where he talks to owners about running great agencies and consultancies. After speaking with so many founders, Harv is aware that operations is often the blind spot for first-time agency owners. They were very good at delivering a service and ended up being an "accidental founder". People start agencies because they're great at marketing, design, or development, not because they planned to manage P&Ls or build operational frameworks. As a result, growth often outpaces structure, and operations fall behind. Early on, these agencies prioritize sales and survival, just trying to land enough business to stay afloat. But as Harv emphasizes, there's a point where founders must transition from doing great work to running a great business. Without operational clarity, even the most talented teams end up winging it, leading to burnout, inefficiency, and missed profit. Understanding the Agency Maturity Model One of Harv's biggest turning points came when his COO introduced him to the concept of a business maturity model. It was an eye-opener. He thought the agency was doing fine, until the framework revealed gaps he didn't even know existed. It showed him that agencies, like people, evolve through stages, from chaotic startups to structured, data-driven organizations. The models vary, but there are usually 5 stages: 1. People challenges 2. process challenges 3. Data and metrics 4. Technology and tools 5. Growth strategy The early stage is where chaos reigns. Processes are tribal, training is informal ("just learn from whoever you sit next to"), and there is no consistent way of working. As the business grows, pockets of best practices emerge, but without unified systems or documentation. The most mature agencies reach a level where processes are standardized, data is reliable, and leaders can make decisions based on insights rather than gut feelings. Unfortunately, only a small percentage of agencies ever get there. From Chaos to Clarity: Building Operational Maturity When Harv stepped into an operations role, his agency was stuck between chaos and maturity. Multiple entities were working in silos with inconsistent tools and workflows. Financial reporting was messy, and onboarding was informal. Everything began to change when they hired a finance director who helped formalize budgeting and systemize financial operations. Together, they redefined how projects were quoted, tracked, and managed, bringing consistency and visibility that had been missing for years. It's a common growing pain for agencies that scale faster than their systems. As Jason recalls, before implementing time tracking, he believed all clients were profitable. The data told a different story: 60% of projects were actually losing money. That realization forced him to fix pricing, reposition the agency, and rethink sales and operations from the ground up. The Leadership Shift: From Fighting Fires to Frameworks Many agency owners reach a ceiling because they're still running their business as they did in the early days. As he moved up the ladder, Harv and his team tried to get the agency's leadership team to realize they were spread too thin, with each senior leader juggling multiple internal roles alongside client work. Once leadership saw the problem, the real work began; creating clarity, documenting systems, and assigning accountability. The key here was clarity, so Harv and this finance director documented everything from budgeting to time tracking, to reporting and resourcing. It was a huge leap in maturity and it consolidated when the founders brought an interim COO who audited operations, restructured the organization, and helped senior leaders focus on strategic leadership instead of firefighting. Finally, there was a clear understanding of where the agency is going, who it serves, and how it operates. Without that, leaders end up managing chaos rather than building growth. Data, Tools, and the Path to Predictability As Harv's agency matured, the next challenge was data and technology. Their systems were outdated, and reporting was cumbersome. Upgrading their tech stack allowed them to collaborate across borders, manage multiple entities, and gain visibility into key metrics like capacity and revenue forecasting. This shift toward being data-driven enabled proactive decision-making instead of reactive problem-solving. Alongside technology, restructuring played a key role. The agency had to make tough decisions about team composition, ensuring the right people were in the right seats. As Harv put it, "Just because someone's been there from the beginning doesn't mean they're the right fit for the next phase." It's a difficult but necessary mindset for sustainable growth. Letting Go — The Hardest Step in Agency Maturity For founders,  growth means letting go. Letting go of old habits, outdated systems, and sometimes even long-time team members. Many owners treat their agency like a baby, and it's a mistake. When leaders cling too tightly, they become the bottleneck. True maturity happens when they can trust the team, delegate decisions, and focus on leading rather than managing. As Harv summarized, agencies should think of themselves less like families and more like sports teams where each player has a role, and the lineup changes as the game evolves. The goal isn't comfort, it's performance. That's what separates agencies that evolve from those that plateau. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

Points of Interest00:00 – Introduction: Marcel welcomes recurring guest Carson Pierce to the Agency Profit Podcast and introduces a new format—walking through a real, anonymized client assessment to show how Parakeeto diagnoses and solves profitability challenges.02:00 – Every Agency's Problems Are Unique but Familiar: Carson explains that while every agency's situation feels unique, most share a few core underlying problems that manifest differently based on team structure, services, and culture.03:40 – Client Background: The featured firm had around 12 staff, close to $1M in revenue, but was losing roughly $80K per year. Despite solid demand, they couldn't pinpoint the source of their declining profit.05:00 – Early Misdiagnoses and Attempts: The leadership team suspected overhead costs like health insurance and software were to blame and tried tightening internal processes, but those adjustments didn't solve the deeper financial issues.06:30 – Leadership Misalignment: With multiple co-founders holding different perspectives, the agency struggled to align on the root cause of its issues, each assuming the problem lay outside their area of expertise.10:00 – Starting the Assessment: Carson outlines Parakeeto's assessment process—benchmarking against a healthy “agency model,” ingesting financial and time data, and identifying gaps between planned and actual performance.11:50 – Payroll Red Flag: Analysis revealed that 98% of all revenue was going directly to payroll, leaving no margin for overhead or profit—a clear signal of structural imbalance.13:30 – Data Gaps and Adjustments: The team had poor time-tracking compliance and a prepaid revenue entry on the P&L that skewed results. Parakeeto corrected these to reveal a more accurate financial picture.16:30 – Root Causes Identified: The agency was top-heavy with overhead roles, under-utilized due to a bottlenecked design team, and priced below the level their delivery costs required.20:30 – Building the Roadmap: Quick wins included improving time-tracking compliance and reclassifying project management and account management as billable delivery hours. Longer-term actions included hiring a designer, raising prices 10–15%, and training PMs in scope management.25:50 – Strategic Choice: Grow, Don't Cut: Instead of downsizing, the founders chose to grow out of the constraint—adding delivery capacity to balance the team and improve utilization since demand existed.28:40 – Coaching and Next Steps: Carson explains the ongoing coaching plan—educating on data hygiene, improving utilization, then progressing to deeper ABR and project-level analysis—focusing first on leading indicators before tracking lagging outcomes.Show NotesConnect with Carson via LinkedInFree Agency ToolkitParakeeto Foundations CourseFree access to our Model PlatformLove the PodcastLeave us a review here. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Send us a textScaling isn't the same as growing, and no one knows that better than Rachel Allen. For 17 years, she's run Bolt from the Blue Copywriting, serving clients in 21 countries. But when she built and scaled an agency because she thought she “should,” the result was burnout, frustration, and misalignment.In this episode, Rachel and I unpack the mindset and structural shifts that lead to sustainable agency growth: growth that fits your wiring, not the industry's expectations. We talk about why “bigger” isn't always better, how to lead from clarity instead of comparison, and why human-centered marketing still wins in an AI-driven world.If you've felt the pressure to scale, but sense there's a smarter, saner way forward, this conversation will help you realign your systems, your strategy, and your definition of success.Books MentionedIndirect Work by Carol SanfordConnect with Rachel Allen at boltfromthebluecopywriting.com or on LinkedIn. You can also reach her directly at hello@boltfromthebluecopywriting.com — yes, by email, just like the good old days.Join Dr. William Attaway on the Catalytic Leadership podcast as he shares transformative insights to help high-performance entrepreneurs and agency owners achieve Clear-Minded Focus, Calm Control, and Confidence. Free 30-Minute Discovery Call:Ready to elevate your business? Book a free 30-minute discovery call with Dr. William Attaway and start your journey to success. Special Offer:Get your FREE copy of Catalytic Leadership: 12 Keys to Becoming an Intentional Leader Who Makes a Difference. Connect with Dr. William Attaway: Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram TikTok YouTube

Points of Interest00:01 – 00:55 – Introduction: Marcel welcomes Kristen Kelly and frames Q4 as prime season for annual and quarterly planning, noting the high cost of leadership offsites demands clear outcomes.01:18 – 03:10 – Why Planning Feels Hard: Kristen cites common hurdles—turning history into forward plans, aligning stakeholders, and building forecasts that can flex with scenarios.01:55 – 03:47 – Frameworks Without Dogma: Marcel references EOS and Scaling Up, extracting shared essentials: look back, look forward, set a few priorities, and install a cadence.03:48 – 05:16 – From Ideas to Execution: Teams stall when models are rigid or fragmented and when revenue targets are arbitrary rather than grounded in capacity, pricing, and cost.05:17 – 08:43 – Static Models Create Drag: Rigid spreadsheets bias decisions toward the status quo, force opinion-driven debates, and delay choices into the quarter, shrinking execution time.08:44 – 11:48 – Prep That Actually Works: Start with mission and quantifiable goals, anchor to a simple, accurate, flexible model, and compare forecast to actuals to keep scope tight.11:49 – 14:32 – Surface Misalignment Early: A pre-offsite FUD survey (fear, uncertainty, doubt) creates psychological safety, reveals blind spots, and primes productive discussion.14:33 – 17:16 – Make the Look-Back Lightweight: Ongoing scorecards make recaps brief; focus on AGI, delivery margin, overhead/AGI, operating profit, and levers like utilization, ABR, and average cost per hour.17:17 – 20:56 – Prioritize by the Numbers: Identify which metrics must move, set a small set of OKR-style priorities, and tie initiatives directly to measurable outcomes and weekly execution.20:56 – 23:47 – Objectives Stay Stable; Communicate Often: Big objectives change slowly; raise the bar via evolving key results and over-communicate the plan so decisions map back to it.25:23 – 27:58 – Commit, Then Figure It Out: Install scorecards and targets even if imperfect; the commitment becomes the forcing function to solve data structure, forecasting, and tracking.28:27 – 36:56 – Model-Backed Decisions & Facilitation: Use a living model to handle cyclical topics (price raises, comp), budgeting, and tradeoffs; third-party facilitation drives objectivity, buy-in, and offers ABR-improving options beyond price increases.36:56 – 39:29 – Unified Budgeting & Final Advice: A connected model aligns payroll, pricing, overhead, and delivery targets, preventing unrealistic constraints; the closing takeaway is numbers-first planning that builds alignment and speeds execution.Show NotesConnect with Kristen via LinkedInFree Agency ToolkitParakeeto Foundations CourseFree access to our Model PlatformLove this Episode?Leave us a review here.  Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

I left Facebook because God told me to go to TikTok and to take it seriously. Less than a year later, I now own a TikTok Creator Network Agency with ten coaches and managers, and together we're helping nearly 100 creators grow in their own version of success—whether that's impact, community, or revenue.In this live episode, I'll share:Why I made the shift from Facebook to TikTokHow obedience turned into agency ownership and a growing teamThe three pillars we stand on as an agency: increasing impact, building community, and growing revenueJoin me for this conversation on platforms, posture, and what it really takes to grow with alignment.

In this episode, I talk with @Audrey Kwan in the Small But Mighty Agency, to tackle one of the most misunderstood growth levers in agency land: referrals. Together, they unpack how trust is the new currency in a cold-lead-saturated market—and how smart agencies are building systems around referrals, not just hoping they happen.⏱️ Timestamps0:00 – Why cold outreach is failing and trust is everything2:10 – The rise of trust-based selling in the agency world5:40 – Why personalization alone isn't enough in 20257:30 – How to ask for referrals the right way9:45 – Building “circles of trust” and systems around relationships13:00 – Using LinkedIn as a referral engine16:00 – Why referrals still require consistency and structure18:00 – The real reason most agency sales systems break20:00 – Direct vs. indirect control: a smarter way to plan sales activity22:30 – Metrics and referral math: how to reverse engineer deal flow25:00 – Specialization as a sales advantage (and trust shortcut)27:30 – Strategic partnerships beyond client referrals29:00 – What kind of agencies thrive with Dan's model31:00 – What needs to be in place before handing off sales33:00 – Dan's biggest mindset shift about agency growth34:00 – Where to learn more about Dan's process

Jason Falls is Chief Strategy Officer and Principal at Falls+Partners, an influence marketing strategy and creative concepts firm founded in 2022. The company helps clients move beyond checkbox influencer campaigns and toward genuine, influence-driven strategies. An award-winning digital marketing strategist, author, and podcast host, Jason has been recognized as a top influencer in social technology and marketing by Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Ad Age. As a thought leader, he hosts the Winfluence podcast, serves as Executive Producer of the Marketing Podcast Network, and has authored multiple books on influence and social media. In this episode… Influencer marketing often promises massive reach, but too many brands end up burning their budgets on ineffective one-off posts. What if the key to success isn't more followers but more influence? And how do you find creators who actually drive results? Jason Falls, an expert in influence marketing and social listening, explains why shifting focus from influencers to influence leads to stronger outcomes. Jason emphasizes investing in long-term partnerships with micro-influencers, relying on creative directors for compelling content, and using social listening tools to spot overlooked opportunities. He illustrates these strategies through campaigns with VisitLEX, GE, and a bourbon brand, showing how creativity, consistency, and insight can turn marketing into meaningful engagement. In this episode of the Inspired Insider Podcast, Dr. Jeremy Weisz interviews Jason Falls, Chief Strategy Officer of Falls+Partners, about rethinking influencer marketing. Jason discusses building authentic influence strategies, lessons from viral content, and the value of social listening. He also explores mistakes brands make in influencer campaigns, the power of micro-influencers, and why creativity drives better results.

In this episode of the Real Estate Pros podcast, host Q Edmonds interviews Jeff King, an experienced insurance agent with a focus on commercial and investor insurance. They discuss the evolution of the insurance industry, the impact of COVID-19 on business operations, and the importance of networking and mentorship in real estate. Jeff shares insights on navigating challenges, adapting to change, and his future goals for scaling his agency while emphasizing the value of building relationships in the industry.   Professional Real Estate Investors - How we can help you: Investor Fuel Mastermind:  Learn more about the Investor Fuel Mastermind, including 100% deal financing, massive discounts from vendors and sponsors you're already using, our world class community of over 150 members, and SO much more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/apply   Investor Machine Marketing Partnership:  Are you looking for consistent, high quality lead generation? Investor Machine is America's #1 lead generation service professional investors. Investor Machine provides true ‘white glove' support to help you build the perfect marketing plan, then we'll execute it for you…talking and working together on an ongoing basis to help you hit YOUR goals! Learn more here: http://www.investormachine.com   Coaching with Mike Hambright:  Interested in 1 on 1 coaching with Mike Hambright? Mike coaches entrepreneurs looking to level up, build coaching or service based businesses (Mike runs multiple 7 and 8 figure a year businesses), building a coaching program and more. Learn more here: https://investorfuel.com/coachingwithmike   Attend a Vacation/Mastermind Retreat with Mike Hambright: Interested in joining a “mini-mastermind” with Mike and his private clients on an upcoming “Retreat”, either at locations like Cabo San Lucas, Napa, Park City ski trip, Yellowstone, or even at Mike's East Texas “Big H Ranch”? Learn more here: http://www.investorfuel.com/retreat   Property Insurance: Join the largest and most investor friendly property insurance provider in 2 minutes. Free to join, and insure all your flips and rentals within minutes! There is NO easier insurance provider on the planet (turn insurance on or off in 1 minute without talking to anyone!), and there's no 15-30% agent mark up through this platform!  Register here: https://myinvestorinsurance.com/   New Real Estate Investors - How we can work together: Investor Fuel Club (Coaching and Deal Partner Community): Looking to kickstart your real estate investing career? Join our one of a kind Coaching Community, Investor Fuel Club, where you'll get trained by some of the best real estate investors in America, and partner with them on deals! You don't need $ for deals…we'll partner with you and hold your hand along the way! Learn More here: http://www.investorfuel.com/club   —--------------------

Entrepreneurship isn't always about grinding 24/7—and Alex Schlinsky is here to prove it. In this episode of BizNinja Entrepreneur Radio, Tyler Jorgenson sits down with Alex, the founder of Prospecting on Demand, a sales coach, author, and proud heart surgery survivor. Alex shares how his childhood in an entrepreneurial family shaped his belief in hard work, resilience, and creating a life outside of the traditional “employee box.”From his early days hustling as a social media marketer before Facebook ads even existed, to cold-calling his way into becoming a certified Miami Dolphins media member, Alex reveals how persistence and boldness defined his start. But he also opens up about the wake-up call that changed everything: open-heart surgery at just 29, when his wife was five months pregnant. That health crisis inspired his book, The Anti-Hustler's Handbook, and a mission to help agency owners build businesses without sacrificing their lives.You'll hear Alex drop powerful mindset gems—including why most entrepreneurs chase “more” without ever defining success, the mantras he uses to beat negative self-talk, and his legendary “Secret Weapon Question” for closing sales. Whether you're stuck in hustle culture, struggling to scale, or just need a reminder to give yourself grace, this episode is packed with real talk, laughs, and game-changing takeaways.TakeawaysDefine Success on Your Terms: Don't let society or influencers dictate what “winning” looks like. Get clear about what YOU actually want.The Anti-Hustle Mindset: Hard work matters, but blind hustle is a trap. Build a business that supports the life you love, not the other way around.The Secret Weapon Question: In sales, pull out the real buying criteria from your prospects. Go deeper than “I want results” to create trust and close deals.Give Yourself Grace (Not a Pass): You'll stumble—everyone does. Learn from it, but stop punishing yourself for being human.Community Over Isolation: Entrepreneurship doesn't have to be lonely. Build or join a supportive network to stay inspired and grounded.Chapters00:00 Welcome & Guest Intro – Alex Schlinsky01:20 Growing Up in an Entrepreneurial Family02:50 First Steps into Entrepreneurship05:15 Hustling His Way into the Miami Dolphins Media Team08:30 The Wake-Up Call: Open-Heart Surgery at 2910:45 Writing The Anti-Hustler's Handbook14:50 Breaking Free from Hustle Culture16:30 Mantras & Mindset Shifts That Work18:50 Giving Yourself Grace (But Not a Pass)19:45 Building Community with Prospecting on Demand23:20 Sales Psychology & The Secret Weapon Question27:40 Sales Example: “I Just Want a Treat”28:10 Beyond Business: Life, Balance & Bucket Lists29:08 Where to Find Alex Online & Closing

Send us a textScaling your agency shouldn't cost you peace, clarity, or capacity. If growth feels like a bottleneck — more clients, more chaos, and too many hats — this episode will help shift that.I sat down with Brent Weaver, serial entrepreneur and now CEO of E2M Solutions, a white-label services platform supporting over 300 digital agencies worldwide. Brent built, scaled, and exited his own agency, then led UGURUS inside Cloudways (a $100M division of Digital Ocean) before stepping in to help agency owners like you remove the operational ceiling.We talk about the systems behind sustainable white label agency growth, embedding external teams into your ops stack, automating proposals, leveraging AI for service delivery, and how to build with discipline — not burnout.This isn't theory. It's proven strategy you can plug in now.

Send us a textScaling an agency beyond seven figures demands more than hard work — it requires clarity, leverage, and systems that don't break under pressure. In this episode, I'm joined by Richard Levy, Founder and CEO of Sophera Marketing, who brings decades of global marketing and leadership experience. We talk about how to use AI for agency growth in ways that actually move the numbers your C-suite cares about, how to prove marketing ROI without guesswork, and how to lead distributed teams across time zones without losing momentum. Richard shares practical ways to eliminate bottlenecks, align marketing strategy with revenue, and harness AI for smarter decisions — not just faster ones. If you want to scale with focus, protect your energy, and elevate your team's performance, you'll find clear, actionable strategies here you can put to work right away.

What happens when your agency hits a growth ceiling—and brute force stops working?In this episode, Steve Maly shares what finally pushed him to adopt EOS, how it changed his team's rhythm and decision-making, and why hiring a $500 intern changed the trajectory of his business.Here's what you'll take away:How to spot the real reason your growth has stalledThe hidden value of weekly meetings (done right)Why structure matters more than toolsHow to think like a strategist—not just a founder