Podcast appearances and mentions of bobby richards

Isabelle and David welcome back Marcus Soutra, co-founder of Eye to Eye and founder of For the Good Consulting, and explore the nature of authenticity, "coolness" and the meaning of masking with nation-wide advocacy expert and fellow ADHD and LD-er. How did being "cool" go from being rich and unaffected to being authentic and open about ND/LD identities? From the loneliness and high masking rates of ADHDers, to Abercrombie & Fitch t-shirts and social media, the ways ND culture has approached masking and unmasking.----Isabelle talks about how being wealthy and affording the performance/clothes of ‘coolness' growing up was Abercrombie & Fitch back in her high school days--these were expensive clothes that you had to get at the mall and were part of the performance of being 'cool.' And what about how much of coolness, at least for a time, was defined by money, or access to certain expensive clothing brands (like Abercrombie and Fitch) What it means to perform and be high masking, for her. There is a coolness factor, the kid who can pick up what's cool has an advantage over the kid who doesn't. Marcus sums it up: are you able to fit in and be embraced by the neurotypical world? And if you can't, there's the loner path, the bully path? The empathy he has for the bully path—they were, in his past, the LD/ND kids who were dealing with loneliness and not masking well and it was their way of finding their way to a role in the school community. 60% of people with ADHD say they mask on regular basis and 33% say there is a loneliness to the experience of having ADHD. Then there's also the pain of being high-masking or being accepted by the neurotypical world, how little practice you have at sitting with who you really are, and finding a stable sense of self. There is a way to be a self to fit in that is not the same as an authentic, self-confident knowing-who-you-are self. The difference between doing it in a healthy way v. doing it in a way to survive. Hard to know what parts of you are okay, and when you're blending into a neurotypical world, there's a significant advantage of being able to read the rooms around social cues. Marginalized senses of self are real, having to exist believing you're less than. Or believing if the mask ever falls, it's terrifying. Isabelle names that there's a management around masking and the layers, like she can unmask and say “I have ADHD!” but she doesn't say, “I have ADHD and I screwed up the finances again so I can't afford the school bill.” Something for her connects coolness to unaffectedness, not being vulnerable, or not caring what others think. Beyond the unique person who owns where they are, where does coolness come from in our culture? Marcus responds that it's often the people at the top of the social hierarchy, it's the celebrities, the role models.  Growing up for Marcus, there were the most attractive movie stars who were dyslexia, like Tom Cruise, Orlando Bloom, not Paul Giamatti. When it came to Aspergers (previous name for low support need Autism, check out more in depth on this history below) or Autism (before it was known as Autism Spectrum Disorder or ASD) were superheroes, like RainMan, Temple Grandin, and that was our introduction to the autism community. If you're dyslexic, the way to make it out is to have hotness or have superhero qualities, and if you don't fit into either one of those, good luck. This brings up how celebrities are not so far removed anymore, from the days that you got these bland PR stories or tabloids, now you have people sharing their stories and unmasking on social media. Marcus names that authenticity is now a part of social media, and it's important for celebrities to have a cause, to be speaking to some aspect of this. If we'recynical, it could be a branding strategy, or it could be a shift in culture, because this emphasis on authenticity rather than hiding has been a big change in the last five years. What is Abercrombie & Fitch? The following documentary covers it pretty much:"White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie and Fitch" (Netflix documentary)DEFINITIONS:Masking: Often used in referenced to autistic folx (Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)), it also applies to folx with ADHD, OCD, and all kinds of neurodivergence (ND) and learning differences (LD), like dyslexia, dycalculia, dyspraxia, dysgraphia, etc. It's the idea that you have to wear a neurotypical "mask" to be accepted or to engage in a world made for those that are neurotypical. You 'pretend' as if you brain and nervous system work in ways they don't. It can be (and feel like) a matter of survival. From a great article on the topic:“For many neurodivergent people, masking is a survival tool for engaging in neurotypical societies and organizations. Masking (also called camouflaging) is the artificial performance of social behaviors deemed more “socially acceptable” in a neurotypical culture.”For more on Marcus Soutra:www.For the Good Consulting.comSoutra is a dynamic, award-winning advocate, leader, and trailblazer in the field of neurodiversity (ND). An ND individual himself and former classroom teacher turned social entrepreneur, he co-founded and led Eye to Eye, scaling the organization's impact on thousands of schools and individuals across the United States. A sought-after speaker, Soutra has delivered compelling talks on stages worldwide, from Harvard to Tokyo, has appeared in dozens of television broadcasts and podcasts,  and has been featured in leading publications including Forbes, The Hill, and Philanthropy Digest. In recognition of his transformative work, he received an honorary doctorate from his alma mater in the spring of 2024.As the founder of For The Good Consulting, Soutra now supports organizations dedicated to driving systemic change for individuals furthest from opportunity. He resides in Brooklyn, NY, with his wife, an educator and learning specialist, where together they continue to advocate for a more equitable world for all students.------Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Isabelle and David welcome back Marcus Soutra, co-founder of Eye to Eye and founder of For the Good Consulting, and ask an interesting question of this nation-wide advocacy expert and fellow ADHD and LD-er: how has life in schools changed for neurodivergent kids, especially now that some of us are parents/educators/in charge? Are kids still afraid, as David was, of having to go to the nurses' office? And how has what's "cool" been redefined in the past decades? From trauma modes to collared shirts, from shifting ADHD from a diagnosis to an identity, the three explore perspectives on masking (AKA using energy to appear as neurotypical), which can be both a poison and a salve.----David wonders, given that Marcus travels across the continental United States…what is he seeing as patterns in neurodivergent culture? Marcus describes that he sees the elder millennials having kids who are now being identified as being neurodivergent, and naming, “The trauma ends with me,” and they're refusing to hand this off to the next generation, and because a generation that grew up with these labels are now turning into parents, school leaders, caregivers, people in charge. David likens this to growing up in an earlier generation where he was taught to toughen up, to take the knocks and handle it. Isabelle relates this to how when you're living in survival mode, you can't also be processing the trauma and making meaning of it, you first have to survive—and part of survival mode is to have tunnel vision, to stay tough, to not pause to feel. So it would make sense for a generation that maybe always was in survival mode to try to pass that on to their kids in the form of “toughen up.” She relates to wanting to break this cycle, though, so hard, as a parent. And also—what does David mean by the “boy named Sue” generation? (Answer: it's a reference to a Johnny Cash song, see below). Marcus describes how this compares to other movements, where something that used to be a diagnosis or label is then taken back as an identity. As he has ADHD, he was hoping this change would happen so much faster, in his small, privileged ND community this change happened so rapidly. It does take these generational shifts and changes to make these things stick. David names that individually, we all have individual struggles that rub up against the system. It felt like school was meant to take parts of us away, it was like an eraser trying to shave parts off. But we are be keepers of that. In school there was no concept of advocating for an accommodation, it was just: do you want to look weird? Leaving class early to go get his meds. How has this changed for kids and adults? It's hard to generalize because “you know one neurodivergent person, you know one neurodivergent person.” But having an open conversation about something and talk about it and acknowledge and not other it—it does set it up for students to have a teacher they can talk to and ask for what they need (even one adult in that building). The needle has moved from the average high schooler even knowing what dyslexia/ADHD/any ND or LD is. Marcus wasn't bummed out about dyslexic, but back in high school, it was other people were going to see him being different. He refused to get accommodations for the third time, because if he got accommodations for it, he wouldn't take the SAT at the same time. Isabelle remembers that as a full body memory, taking the SAT being a production back in the day and even in her own experience being bussed on the short bus into a different school for a Gifted program and how it signaled you were different but also you didn't want to belong to this select tribe, either.  David names: different is dangerous in some ways, not just for kids but for adults, too. You walk into a room and everyone is wearing a blue “I'm here for a reason” shirt and you might slowly back out of the room and go “I don't belong.” Trying to be like everyone else is both the salve and the poison—it helps keep us save when we're masking—what does everyone else is doing? It helps us mask, but David's first time being a room where people admitted they were neurodivergent, Grady was bouncing a racket ball, the relief and joy you feel when you can join in being more authentically yourself. Isabelle is thinking of the “Cool Bean” book (see below) and how in that story, the beans are ‘cool' not just because they are performing as cool and have style and whatnot, but also because they are willing to take risks and help those who are being bullied or laughed at, that are able to stand up for others and themselves in a way. This is so different than ‘coolness' as Isabelle experienced it in her little bubble growing up in suburban Chicago, where coolness felt way more about avoiding being targeting and felt meaner and scarier and more about social power and wielding it (with meanness). Marcus names how his masking helped him in a way; he didn't know if he could get away with getting into trouble so he would know how to appear wearing a collared shirt and combed hair and befriend his teachers so that he would get on their good side. David describes how with ‘coolness,' it could be more about performing as if, rather than actually being it—like Marcus wasn't actually friends with his teachers but he had the appearance of it, and how often we take those appearances of coolness and roll with it. Isabelle wonders—what about the privilege of masking? Like the way people who mask more easily and slot into neurotypical expectations have privileges and also—‘detecting' what's cool? And what about how much of coolness, at least for a time, was defined by money, or access to certain expensive clothing brands (like Abercrombie and Fitch) What it means to perform as if you are confident in who you are, Johnny Cash's “Boy Named Sue” (live at San Quentin, 1969)Cool Beans book (by Jory John) read aloud (by Harper Kids)Smart Cookie (also by Jory John) read aloud (by Magical Little Minds) about learning differences/neurospicyness according to Isabelle"White Hot: The Rise and Fall of Abercrombie and Fitch" (Netflix documentary)------Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Isabelle and David continue to talk with David's brother's friend, Aaron, and contemplate why folks with ADHD can be so enthusiastic and excited about interests, people, etc. Is it because we are like puppies who are starved for reinforcement (dopamine)? Or does it come from living a life on the outside and the joy of connection when it has been missed for so long. With callbacks to Greatest American Hero (See Ep095) as well as the real story behind the theme song to St. Elmo's Fire.—-David describes how borrowing from LeDerick Horne and his brilliant theory around leadership, that folks in leadership can have a number of qualities, including being promoters. Folks with ADHD can be natural promoters, and being a promoter is actually a form of leading others. With the caveat that we must be into what we promote. And how excited we are about people and how we talk people up. David names that perhaps this has something to do with how we are starving (for dopamine) and intimacy and connection and relatedness can help us fill that void, we reach for the connection and get excited. Isabelle wonders if this relates to an autism(ASD)-style special interest, how she perpetually is excited and has a working principle that everyone could find common ground if we just found a shared hobby or special interest. David likes to tell people on airplanes that he's a car salesman so he can talk and listen to his heart's content but he doesn't have to focus on what he does. Isabelle names that even though David is not very savvy about cars, he could sell a car because he's such a natural salesperson. Isabelle names that anxiety around overselling things, she might encourage people to try new things, take new risks, explore and play—but her working memory is so poor that she doesn't know if she oversold, she has to refer to notes or something as reference. David loved serving as fun because there was a high degree of risk and failing so it helped me remember things. David names that we are not starving puppies with watery eyes, but we are highly susceptible to be reinforced, so when we see someone else's tail wagging, it shoots up our levels of dopamine, we are highly reinforced. The establishing operation—social connection and social mastery is water for us, like the water-deprived rats being reinforced in Skinner boxes. The environment makes Isabelle's puppy quality feel safe or good or not; and can lead to her feeling starved of that connection and reinforcement. The feeling when you have no one wagging their tail back at you—how many mistakes we do make, how many social gaffs and miscues, and big ones. It's almost like we find ourselves so marginalized, its like finding a prison gang when we find people who get us. What does it do to your sense of self when you can't do what you want with your morning—how that deflates your sense of self. Isabelle feels like she shares a bond with the other parents and caregivers that are always running late—it flares up imposter syndrome and “if you only saw me five minutes ago." David reframes this as "if only you saw what it took me to get here and I made it!" Aaron is a master of social engineering, even though he's almost always good at it and social interaction, he remains scared the whole time. The anxiety hits because if it doesn't work out, he takes the hits hard: he can take a lot of them, but they hit hard. David shares one of his hits—he was spending a lot of money for grad school, wanting to read all the books for all his classes, he was going to learn it all...but he didn't do any of the readings for one of his classes. The class was talking about this person out loud, “Ed Nafoah” — he was like "what is this Nafoah guy talking about ?” and everyone in class is like “Edna? Her name is Edna Foa.” It took five to ten minutes for David to feel the cabin pressure returning and the lights to come up and to return to his body. Aaron points out that his impulsivity could carry him through it—David had a ballast and in grad school and they were talking about different psychosocial backgrounds, step or two based on privilege. The professor holds up a dollar and says "the first person to…can have this dollar?” He's never seen someone authorized like that. Aaron sings the theme song from “The Greatest American Hero” which we all know, and the superhero suit is David's impulsivity. Who is Edna Foa?Greatest American Hero trailer (he is LITERALLY "walking on air")Story behind St. Elmo's Fire theme song, "Man in Motion" here's the music video and the song A quick synopsis of the backstory behind the song (Source: Wikipedia)And an interview with the songwriter/singer, John Parr, discussing how he came up with the idea and how he snuck it in to be the theme song for this 1980's Brat Pack Extravaganza. For more about our guest:Aaron Michael Ullrey (he/him)Writing and Editing Specialist, Editor in ChiefResearch Associate, Transcendence and TransformationCenter for the Study of World Religion (CSWR) at Harvard Divinity SchoolInstructor of Religious StudiesThe University of HoustonInstructor of Sanskrit LanguageUniversity of Naropa -----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Isabelle and David welcome David's brother's friend, Aaron, who, as a recently diagnosed ADHDer, brings up the idea of if ADHD is a superpower, it's like the super suit in “Greatest American Hero:” a suit given with a manual that got lost on the first day of use. What happens when you find your ‘ingredient' for doing the things you previously struggled with and now can do? How does your self esteem and sense of self efficacy impact how you handle days when that ingredient is missing? This plus being puppy dogs together, tackling Mt. Laundry, and why intimacy beats contempt.----David and Isabelle welcome Aaron, a longtime friend of David's brother, who was recently diagnosed with ADHD as an adult. In thinking about ADHD, he thinks about this show from the 1970's, “Greatest American Hero,” where this teacher is given a superpower suit by some aliens, who also give him a manual for the suit, and he loses it on the first day, so he goes around saving people but also is seeking this manual and he always gives it up to save someone. He resonated with this character so much, and for Aaron, medication made a huge difference—he is able to wake up and do the thing and then he is able to do. He's been medicated for anxiety and depression his whole life and taking medication for ADHD doesn't make those go away, but it helps him be the person he always wanted to be. Isabelle so resonates with the suit metaphor and how she and Bobby attempted to make their home more ADHD friendly (see “Keeping House While Drowning” and all the ADHD friendly home tips below!) And she forgot her medication and instead of spiraling into anxiety, when she realized why she stalled out all day, she was able to recognize it was “oh, I was missing my ingredient.”  David points out that it's not just medication, because medication is not for everyone, it can be so many things, once we find out what the ingredient is—working out in the morning, the coffee routine, whatever it might be--when you all of a sudden miss it, you can pinpoint it and recover. Even more so, Aaron describes how it is a conscious habit, as a child of the 80's, he is not about the idea of 'working on his self-esteem,' but realizes through therapy and his conversations with David that it keeps coming up for a reason, there are wounds there that do shift when you are able to do some of the things you previously struggled with. David can recognize those nasty voices in our heads, the angry voice as a teenager to get himself to do things. Based on his arbitrary math, while it takes 6 weeks to build a neurological bridge, it takes 6 years to build a habit. He chose to make excitement that it will be over the habit over the anger over having to do it. Whether it's medication or nervousness or anxiety, David recognizes that something has to stimulate him so he has to choose his path and practice it. Aaron remembers his psychologist friend Dave 20 years ago sharing the 3 paths to happiness (he was studying at the time)—the first is excitement, the second is contempt (at least temporarily), and the third is intimacy. Aaron is excitable and comes from a contemptuous family and wants to focus on intimacy. This makes Isabelle make awkward spiders with her hands, the idea of gossiping and spreading shame makes you feel reassured and safe but also brings with it a threat and temporary condition; for Isabelle, intimacy means playfulness, curiosity, a willingness to see what happens next, and as David defines it: a shared vulnerability. Aaron ordered up BRAIN STUFF, and sadly David has no links, so Isabelle tries to fill it by talking about studies that connect to how we associate the negative talk about someone with the gossiper, not the subject of the gossip. David names that he does think ADHD is a superpower with a missing manual, and the tricky part is let's say we're talking unbridled enthusiasm: it's a superpower and contagious and also has an effect on the recipient. David names being okay with someone not wanting to be the recipient at this current moment. THE THINGS WE MENTIONED:Greatest American Hero Opening Credits (Worth it to finally see where this song comes from and for the flying haphazardly imagery)How to Keep House While Drowning by KC DavisSo You've Been Publicly Shamed by Jon Ronson"Punishing or praising gossipers: How people interpret the motives behind negative gossip shapes its consequences" (source: Social and Personality Psychology Compass)-----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

AI is revolutionizing the way businesses operate—but how do you harness it effectively without getting lost in the noise? In this final episode of the Business Made Simple Podcast, Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Geoff Woods, author of The AI-Driven Leader, to unpack the practical ways small business owners can leverage AI as a strategic thought partner.   Geoff shares the essential mindset shifts needed to embrace AI, from reframing limiting beliefs to asking the right questions that unlock its true potential. Discover how prompts like “How can AI help me solve this problem?” can help you design AI interactions that enhance decision-making, streamline workflows, and uncover non-obvious solutions.   As we wrap up the Business Made Simple Podcast, we want to thank you for joining us on this incredible journey of becoming better business owners. This final episode offers actionable strategies to help you adopt AI, amplify your impact, and future-proof your business—proving it's never the end, just the beginning of what's next.   Access more resources from Geoff at AILeadership.com.   -- BIG NEWS! After three amazing years, the Business Made Simple Podcast will be ending, and starting January 6, 2025, this feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It's been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help you become a better business owner, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Stay subscribed to this feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple  

Life's curveballs can leave you feeling out of control, burned out, and off your game. And when your mornings feel chaotic, the rest of your day never seems to recover. Most people start their day hitting snooze, reacting to problems, and dragging themselves to work.  But what if you could take back your mornings and start every day with clarity, purpose, and motivation? Imagine how much more you could accomplish if you were already firing on all cylinders before 9 a.m.   In this week's episode, Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Hal Elrod, best-selling author of The Miracle Morning. Hal shares the powerful SAVERS framework — 6 daily habits that can revitalize your mornings and change your life. You'll learn how to overcome adversity, build emotional resilience, and design a morning routine that supports your mental, emotional, and physical well-being. Listen in to discover how a small shift in the first hours of your day can spark massive change in your life and business!   Go to MiracleMorning.com to learn how to start upgrading your morning routine.   -- BIG NEWS! After three amazing years, the Business Made Simple Podcast will be ending, and starting January 6, 2025, this feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It's been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help you become a better business owner, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Stay subscribed to this feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Break free from the overwhelm, shame, and constant battle with your ADHD. Order the Something Shiny ADHD Toolkit Series - available now until January 2nd, 2025! How do you make your time off the most efficiently relaxing? Or unlock a peak game night or other family time experience? And why are we so hell bent on intensity of experience, versus frequency? David and Isabelle straddle talk of perfectionism, their own relationships to building time-off experiences, and how frequency is our friend, as well as the idea that perfectionism is not a dirty word, but perhaps relates to masking, needs for structure and predictability in neurodivergence.----Isabelle describes how her and Bobby would take time away just the two of them, and realized how time would move so differently, especially if they just let themselves hang out and not put extra pressure on the time off. David names that we focus so much on intensity of experiences (for Isabelle's family, the most intense all-inclusive Disney trip EVER!) versus frequency, when actually, you need more frequent interactions in order to have a template for how to be with each other. So maybe we do more time off or together time—more often, and lower the bar for what we have to do in that time? Isabelle struggles with this, however, in how she tackles family game nights, as family dinner might be something of a challenge for folks (let's not assume all families are functional and you want to spend time with each other, either). She goes to great lengths to set it up, get the snacks, the music, the setting…and she always wants to make it 2% better, but it often backfires or doesn't match up to any expectations. This brings her to her new hyper fixation, on perfectionism (see book she names, below). She describes how there's a type of perfectionist that seeks to have every part of a process go well, and if one part goes wrong, they throw it all away. This relates for her to being so in the present moment and struggling with what happened just before or just after, so she wants to nail each part of a get together. David does not relate to this, it brings up the fact he knows nothing can be perfect and in fact, he felt so ‘not enough' for much of his life, that he does not carry this. Isabelle describes how there's this type of perfectionism where you work really hard but you try to appear effortless (effortlessly styled, cool, fit, etc.) and David names how he wants to unlock peak experiences with minimal effort. Isabelle and David get into a debate about whether or not David might be a type of perfectionist, if you think of perfectionism as ambitions or goals or striving toward and ideal, and Isabelle's own journey exploring if she has autism, makes her think that maybe this is how she uses scripts in social settings, like she knows what her role is and what is expected of her and she wants to do it well. David names that if he puts great effort into it, then it doesn't count, except when he's making “D's Nuts,” a holiday spiced nut roasted sugared nut blend that blows minds in little mason jars every year. Isabelle finally gets what David means; he's going for peak efficiency, like he puts in no effort, and it's a HUGE win for the person. With D's nuts, it's extremely labor intensive and he's proud of it. Isabelle likes to give people shortcuts, like discount codes and bargains and feels so seen when David names he has benefited from her use of this many a time. The Perfectionist's Guide to Losing Control by Katherine Morgan SchaflerTypes of perfectionists (per the book above, taken from Medium summary article)Classic perfectionist — They attempt to control essentially everything. This is the type we're all thinking of. They like structure and consistency. They tend to hold themselves to extremely high standards and are overachievers.Parisian perfectionist — This type wants to be perfectly liked by everyone in an effortless way. They have a sense of ideal connection and tend to be people pleasing to bridge that gap.Procrastinating perfectionist — These folks want the conditions to be ideal before they get started on a project. They have an ideal notion of how something might go, and are afraid of having it ruined with the reality of actually getting started.Messy perfectionist — This doesn't mean physically messy. What it means is that these folks have a hard time following through once a project has gotten underway. They believe that they can focus on multiple things without having to give anything up, but frequently don't finish what they started and have multiple projects in various states of completion at any given time.Intense perfectionist — These people can be extremely demanding of others. Think the boss that is exacting and keeps you at the office late. They have an ideal outcome or vision and are willing to be extremely unlikable in order to bring it to fruition.David makes “D's nuts.” For those not familiar with Chicago accents, here's an old SNL sketch that makes big use of this.-----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Countless business owners unknowingly build a “prison” around themselves — a business that only works if they're doing all the work. Every problem is their problem. Every fire is their fire. They're working 60, 70, 80 hours a week — and for what? This is the hidden trap that swallows countless business owners whole. Here's the truth: if you don't break out of this cycle, you'll end up resenting the very thing you created. So how can you effectively hand off critical tasks without your business falling apart? In today's episode, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Dan Martell, one of the most sought-after business coaches and author of "Buy Back Your Time," to discuss how to escape the owner's trap. Dan shares his practical strategies and frameworks like the Buyback Principle, the 10-80-10 Rule, and the Camcorder Method — all designed to help you step back, scale up, and love your business again. If you've ever felt like your business owns you, tune in and learn how to regain control, grow sustainably, and finally build a business you don't grow to hate. -- BIG NEWS! After three amazing years, the Business Made Simple Podcast will be ending, and starting January 6, 2025, this feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It's been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help you become a better business owner, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Stay subscribed to this feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Just in time for the mounting stress at the end of the year, here's an ADHD-friendly gift-giving guide! David and Isabelle have ideas, accommodations, and acceptance around giving and receiving gifts with neurodivergent folx. How hard it is to buy things for folx who impulsively purchase all (cheaper) things for themselves? How to tackle the mystery of huge shopping carts and no good memory if you bought the thing after all, or not? What to get your brilliant neurodivergent child (psss…it's the experience, not the shiny thing!)? And MORE!-----Aside from discussing how Isabelle has a cold and David thinks they could be like Voltron, David describes how he only buys things he can touch or get a use out of: dopamine will make you think something that looks shiny and cool (like a skin in a video game) is the thing to buy, but then the rush fades and your left without something useful. Dopamine releases around the potential of awesomeness, not actually the awesomeness. Think about how quickly something Isabelle gets hooked into having loaded shopping carts at various websites, especially around gift giving—she'll spend two hours hyper focusing on what to get and getting it, but when it comes time to buying something, she freezes and forgets to buy it and then doesn't remember if she bought it or not. David points out this is the inattentive part: the difficulty of making the choice. You also then log a memory of the check out screen (but not if you actually bought the thing or not). The shopping cart loading is externalizing your memory, using an accommodation to assist with working memory as you find things that might be potential gifts for people. David makes a point around buying something with a use case, even more so than quality of experience: can you specifically use it for something? Does it do something other than just sit there? Sometimes we don't want to use something up (like candles) because it feels too precious to use them. David names that he gets overwhelmed with too much stuff: he wants it all, but he doesn't want it all. For example, at a birthday when he got all five video games he wanted, when we get all that we want, all at once, we don't actually want it all. Give him five video games, but give him one each throughout several months. What if you could rotate toys (Isabelle calls this toy store with her kids) and wishes she could do this with herself. They hit upon that subscription boxes as a cool solution. David names as that someone who is impulsive, there is nothing he wants under $20 he hasn't bought for himself. If you're debating getting the expensive thing but caught with decision paralysis, average out how much the thing costs per use (for example, a coffee machine ends up being $1 per cup of coffee for a whole year) and then decide if it's worth the 5% boost in your day. David names finding the win for yourself: finding the win/lose condition and setting yourself up for a win. That includes receiving gifts: make it simple for your gift givers! You like bunnies? Get bunnies. Set up your givers for a win. Isabelle describes loving to browse a store, but hating to have to make a buying decision, while David thinks of the gift that someone would be embarrassed to buy for themselves but could not reject (without it being silly, such as a 15 lb. Bag of gummy bears). Both inattentive and impulsive types of ADHD lead to self-doubt, but it's how many times we touch that doubt: for inattentive type, it's a lot before buying something. For impulsive type, it's huge the moment you hand the gift over and wonder if you haven't made a mistake. Isabelle ponders a giant sized Toblerone, David recalls how disconcerting holding a huge gummy bear actually was. For kids, consider the experience of going to the store and getting to impulsively choose the thing they want for themselves. Preserve the magic of the buy: the parent/guardian/gift giver has zero interest in how great the gift is: if they have buyer's remorse, that's learning, it's important, not a failed gift. What is Voltron? I mean, the logo alone… Quick visual searches (not endorsing any particular brand, just for reference):Giant Gummy BearGiant Toblerone  DAVID'S DEFINITIONS Rejection Sensitive Dysphoria (RSD), where you interpret feedback or questions or redirections as being very harsh and personal, and then really take it to heart—even if that's not really what is being communicated to you. Can be present a lot with folx with ADHD.Use case: Does a thing do something other than just sit there? There is a case for how you'd use it.Thoughts on gift givingDopamine releases around the potential of awesomeness, not the actual awesomeness. Make it a win/lose, and set yourself up for a win, and those giving you gifts for a win: pick something you Harness your impulsivity: follow your first instinct. Be outrageous.Don't expect doubt to go away: there's a chaotic variable in giving in a gift, a novel way the person could react.Think about things that people maybe would never buy for themselves but they would not reject (run the scenario, pretend you're mad at the gift you just gave)—for example, two 15 lb. Bags of gummy bears. It'd be silly for someone to reject it and it'd make a funny story if they do.Advice for kids: create a day to go to the store with the kid so they can pick out what they impulsively want that day. Give them the power to choose. Predetermine budget or safety issues, but otherwise, no micromanaging. Even with buyer's remorse, there's a lesson and it's okay. -----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Running a business is hard enough without feeling like your own brain is working against you. If ADHD has you stuck in cycles of procrastination, perfectionism, or overwhelm, you might wonder if you'll ever get a handle on your own productivity. Many entrepreneurs struggle to balance their creative bursts with the structure and discipline needed for success. So how do you work with your brain instead of against it? And what if the quirks of ADHD are actually your greatest asset?   In this episode, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with David Kessler, co-founder of the Willow Center for Integrative Health and co-host of the Something Shiny Podcast, to unpack the connection between ADHD and entrepreneurship. You'll learn practical strategies for creating flexible structures, breaking free from shame spirals, and leaning into your unique work style to unlock your full potential. Listen in and learn how to use ADHD as an asset, not a barrier, to thrive in both business and life. Get free access to the Something Shiny ADHD Focus & Flow Finder at SomethingShinyPodcast.com/BMS.   --   BIG NEWS! After three amazing years, the Business Made Simple Podcast will be ending, and starting January 6, 2025, this feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It's been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help you become a better business owner, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Stay subscribed to this feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   Need proven strategies and actionable tactics to drive your coaching business and make a bigger impact on more people in 2025? Don't miss our upcoming How to Land 5 High-Value Clients in the Next 30 Days, hosted by Donald Miller and Michael Hyatt, on December 12, 2024 at 10am CST. Register now at CoachBuilder.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

What if the secret to abundance isn't found in chasing external success but in reframing how you see and approach your life and business? For so many of us, achieving more doesn't always equate to feeling fulfilled. How can you shift your mindset and embrace the abundance already around you?   In this week's episode, Cathy Heller, author of Abundant Ever After, talks with hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting and shares how reframing your relationship with abundance can transform your life and business. Cathy unpacks why aligning with your authentic self leads to true joy and creativity, how generosity can create immediate abundance, and why fulfillment starts with changing how you define success. Tune in for practical strategies to unlock a deeper connection to your purpose, your work, and the abundance waiting for you.   Get Cathy's new book, Abundant Ever After, along with exclusive bonuses, at CathyHeller.com/book.   --   BIG NEWS! After three amazing years, the Business Made Simple Podcast will be ending, and starting January 6, 2025, this feed will become home to an exciting new show: Why That Worked – Presented by StoryBrand.AI, hosted by Donald Miller.  It's been an honor providing you with the tools and frameworks to help you become a better business owner, and this new podcast will continue giving incredible value with actionable insights you can immediately apply. Stay subscribed to this feed so you don't miss a single episode of Why That Worked starting January 6, 2025!   Need proven strategies and actionable tactics to drive your coaching business and make a bigger impact on more people in 2025? Don't miss our upcoming How to Land 5 High-Value Clients in the Next 30 Days, hosted by Donald Miller and Michael Hyatt, on December 12, 2024 at 10am CST. Register now at CoachBuilder.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

What do you do when people are openly judging your food sensitivities (or the food sensitivities of your kid)? What's the difference between a soft and hot response to commentary? Why do we go to town over certain foods we love and then have such particular things we dislike and how much the Thanksgiving feast of it all can be about winning the feeling and vibe, rather than 'winning' at some carbon copy idea or expectation of what the holiday (and meal) should be. Filled chock full of food facts, favorite foods, and alternate ways to celebrate, this episode has David and Isabelle so grateful for you, Team Shiny!----Isabelle wonders if her experience would have been different if her food sensitivities, then cast as being ‘too picky,' ‘too sensitive', had been more the norm in her family friend group growing up. She was the odd one out and that left room for so much judgment and commentary. Meanwhile, she sees her partner Bobby's family and notes that pretty much everyone has food sensitivities, their yucks and yums, so they accept it and roll with it and stock up on what people like and seem to not be phased by it at all. David relates this to his experience being vegetarian for years and how he would feel when people would immediately show him the vegetarian dish on the menu—but he knows now that this was them looking out for him, verifying that this was a place he could eat. He couldn't hear it then, but as he got older, he would just say “thank you.” The difference when you're trying to advocate for your kid as a parent v. Others outside of that. David has his soft response—“if there's ever a night to eat what you like, it's with family” and his hot response is “should I follow you and talk about what you eat?” Isabelle noticed that she could change the texture of vegetables and thus reinvent her ability to eat vegetables, including the bitter ones she couldn't handle for so long. There was so much labor put into the food of her Polish Christmas eve celebrations growing up, like pierogi, and there's this sense of wanting to pass on food pushing and abundance and scarcity. David's mouth is watering about pocket foods—pierogi, samosas, tamales—delicious. Which links up Isabelle's fun fact about fried chicken—that frying preserves the food! And then, isn't it technically a pocket food, too? But, as David points out—the bone! But, Isabelle counters, what about tenders? So is a chicken tender a pocket food with no other filling but chicken? And also foods on sticks. Isabelle likes the risk involved and also chewing on the stick. David doesn't understand how to eat the food off the stick, but there's a big difference between impulsive behavior and well thought out behavior. David and Isabelle are now very hungry. Isabelle asks if traditions really aren't about transmitting memories, and if so, kids won't remember the meal you served, but they will remember the feeling that someone stood up for them and their needs?  David reframes this: are you trying to win an argument (about food) or win a feeling? Are you aiming for togetherness and connection—it's not the day to argue about the food, or the screen, or the phone—give yourself that day. This brings Isabelle to asking David about jello with chunks in it, if he likes that kind of texture, and he doesn't, he likes hard jello. Isabelle is confused by what he means and describes aspic served for Polish Easter, and furthermore, one of the most neurodivergent ways of relating to food, which can include eating copious amounts of the things we love repeatedly. For her, on another holiday with another food profile, she ate 27 eggs. In one day. Gave herself hives from the eggs. And that's not including the mayonnaise. David meant hard jello like jello made with apple juice. Also as a former bartender, David cautions everyone about drinking and driving around Thanksgiving, a holiday notorious for stress and overindulging, and also about the dangers of alcohol soaked foods like jello shots. And he is grateful to Isabelle and to Team Shiny (we love you, Team Shiny!) For all we have made together, for all the people who now know more about ADHD or have new diagnoses: we're sad you had to get a diagnosis and happy you had to get a diagnosis? We're here for all of it. Have a great holiday!The backstory behind Nashville hot chickenFrying as a way to preserve food - "Since fried chicken traveled well in hot weather before refrigeration was commonplace and industry growth reduced its cost, it gained further favor across the South." (Source: Wikipedia)Fascinating rabbithole of a site that makes industrial fryers -- most processed foods are fried!Recipe for ‘hard jello' aka Jell-o jigglers (which sadly does not mention apple juice, but does specify the water to gelatin ratio) And bonus: how to make gelatin out of any fruit juice (like apple juice)-----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

Delivering exceptional customer service can feel taxing, especially when you're juggling multiple roles in your business. It's easy to think that “good enough” is sufficient, but the truth is, it's the small, thoughtful actions that leave the biggest impact on your customers. If you've ever struggled with handling tough customer interactions or wondered how to wow your clients without breaking the bank, you're not alone. What if elevating your customer experience could be simpler (and more affordable) than you think?   In this episode, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Kelley Kirker, Director of Customer Experience at Business Made Simple, to reveal practical strategies for transforming customer interactions from ordinary to extraordinary. Learn how to streamline your processes, respond quickly with empathy, and surprise customers in ways that build trust and word-of-mouth marketing. Tune in and get actionable steps to create a standout customer experience that drives real business growth.   --   FIND OUT YOU CAN START AND GROW A SUCCESSFUL COACHING BUSINESS AT CoachBuilder.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

When your business starts to scale, growth brings new opportunities—and new complexities. As they say, “New level, new devil.” While rapid growth is exciting, it can also lead to misalignment, confusion, and burnout without the right checks in place. To keep your team focused, your mission clear, and your growth sustainable, you need a proactive approach.   In this episode, host Bobby Richards talks with Tyler Ginn, President of CoachBuilder and Business Made Simple, who reveals a 4-part health check that's become a game-changer for scaling businesses. Tyler's framework—covering mission, processes, people, and results—keeps you ahead of potential pitfalls and helps you steer your company confidently through change. If you're feeling the growing pains of success or want a proven strategy to keep your business on track, listen in to get the tools you need to lead with clarity and intention.   --   FIND OUT YOU CAN START AND GROW A SUCCESSFUL COACHING BUSINESS AT CoachBuilder.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

How do you start charging for your advice without feeling weird about it? A lot of business owners have the expertise to coach others, but turning that knowledge into a successful coaching business can feel daunting and awkward. How do you know if what you're offering is worth the price? The real challenge isn't what you know—it's learning how to package that knowledge into something people are willing to pay for. Without a clear plan, it's easy to get stuck in “free advice” mode and miss the opportunity to build a business around the insights you already have.   In today's episode, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting talk with Business Made Simple's very own Donald Miller, creator of the Coach Builder framework, to give you a clear, step-by-step plan for building a thriving coaching business. Don lays out 8 essential steps that will help you professionalize your coaching, confidently charge for your expertise, and grow your business. If you've ever wondered how to make the leap from giving free advice to getting paid for what you know, this episode gives you the tools to make it happen. Listen in and learn how to transform the expertise you already have into a profitable revenue stream!    If you're ready to turn your expertise into a profitable coaching business, head to CoachBuilder.com to schedule a call where we'll answer all your questions and help you determine if the Coach Builder framework is the right fit for you.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Feeling overwhelmed by your to-do list? Download The Small Business Owner's Quickstart Checklist for free at BusinessMadeSimple.com/Quickstart and start streamlining your operations, clarifying your message, and building a business that works for you.   --   Video marketing can do wonders for your business—if you're comfortable getting on camera. For many, though, creating videos feels awkward and overwhelming. We freeze up, obsess over tiny details, or just have no idea where to start, leaving us feeling defeated before we even hit record. If you're tired of watching hours of footage, only to realize you didn't get what you needed, or you just hate how you sound and look on camera, you're not alone. But there's a better way to approach it that will make your video creation smoother and your personality shine through.    In today's episode, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Abby Walla and David Storch, Hollywood film professionals and co-founders of Crushing It On Camera. They introduce their proven “Hollywood Method” to help you get comfortable on camera, using simple techniques to deliver content authentically. Whether you're shooting a short reel or a 30-minute webinar, you'll learn how to leave behind the stress of scripts or endless retakes. Abby and David teach you how to get prepared, bullet-point ideas, and stay natural. Listen in and learn how to feel confident, authentic, and genuinely excited to create video content. Go to CrushingItOnCamera.com to access Abby and David's free Hollywood Method webinar.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

You've got the vision and the drive to grow your business, but there's a massive obstacle holding you back: chaos. Tasks pile up, deadlines blur, and you find yourself juggling too many things at once. How many times have you wished you had more time to focus on the bigger picture? Without someone to manage the daily grind, it can feel like you're constantly putting out fires instead of strategizing for growth. What if the answer isn't more hours in the day, but a single, essential hire?   In this episode, host Bobby Richards talks with Sam Buchholz, a project management expert who has transformed how the Coach Builder team operates. From streamlining your team's workflow to saving you hours of mental fatigue, they break down the undeniable value of a project manager. Sam shares practical insights on how the right systems can boost your business's efficiency. Tune in to learn how to offload the minutiae and focus on what matters most—driving revenue and achieving your big vision.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

You've built a business you're proud of, but are you spending too much time in the weeds? When small tasks pile up, you might feel like you're doing everything except what actually grows your business. With every email and customer support issue you handle, you're losing time that should be dedicated to sales and marketing—the lifeblood of your revenue. So, how do you know when it's time to delegate and finally scale?   In this episode of Business Made Simple, hosts James Sweeting and Bobby Richards sit down with Nicole Burke, founder of Gardenary, to chat about how she built a thriving online business by staying laser-focused on sales and marketing. Nicole shares her journey of transitioning from doing it all to building a team that handles fulfillment and admin, so she can prioritize what matters most. You'll learn how to conduct a task audit, recognize when it's time to hire, and maintain focus on activities that move the needle for your business. Listen in and get actionable steps to scale your team and your business!   Start living a garden-centered life at Gardenary.com.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

What's the real cost of being too nice? It's more than you might think. Many leaders, especially small business owners, fall into the trap of “ruinous empathy”, which is the failure to provide essential feedback due to the fear of hurting someone's feelings. Avoiding difficult confrontations might feel like the right thing to do—but it's actually a fast track to mediocrity.    Join hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting as they sit down with Kim Scott, author of Radical Candor, to dive into the dangers of avoiding tough conversations. In this episode, Kim shares her powerful Radical Candor framework, breaking down how leaders can strike the perfect balance between caring personally and challenging directly. You'll learn how to move beyond "ruinous empathy," build stronger, more effective teams, and create a culture of honest feedback that drives real results. Listen in and discover specific strategies to give feedback that's both clear and compassionate, helping you create a more accountable and high-performing team!   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple  

Many people believe that financial freedom—accumulating enough money to never work again—is the ultimate goal. But for most entrepreneurs, this dream feels out of reach, which leads to frustration and financial stress. The constant pressure to build wealth and achieve financial freedom can leave you feeling like a failure if you don't hit that big number. So what if financial freedom isn't the answer? What if there's a more realistic and sustainable way to manage your money and build security?   In this episode, hosts James Sweeting and Bobby Richards talk with Tiffany Aliche, also known as "The Budgetnista," who shares her revolutionary concept of financial wholeness. Tiffany breaks down her 10-step plan that helps anyone achieve financial stability, whether you're making $50k per year or $50 million. She also opens up about her own journey from financial mess to success and offers practical advice for small business owners to take control of both their personal and business finances. Tune in and learn how to build your dream business without sacrificing your financial peace!   Access amazing free resources to get started on the path to Financial Wholeness at TheBudgetnista.com.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple    

Are you leaving money on the table by not offering an online course? A lot of business owners feel overwhelmed by the idea of turning their knowledge into a digital product, worried it might be too complex or could cannibalize their bread-and-butter services. The doubts—about your teaching ability or the sheer effort involved—can make you question if creating an online course is the right move.   In today's episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, host Bobby Richards brings in digital course expert Amy Porterfield to shed some light on the issue for our course-curious listeners. From pinpointing the perfect course topic using your unique “10% edge” to testing and validating your idea with your audience, Amy shares practical steps to help you create a successful online course. Tune in to discover how to turn your expertise into a money-making, scalable digital product.   Register for Amy's upcoming Course Confident bootcamp at BusinessMadeSimple.com/CourseConfident.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Cash flow is the heartbeat of any business. But what do you do when revenue takes a sudden hit and the money isn't coming in as expected? Whether it's a seasonal dip, unexpected expenses, or a major disruption like a pandemic, every entrepreneur feels the pressure when cash flow slows down. These times can be stressful and can even threaten the survival of your business. So, what can you do now to ensure your business stays afloat when money is tight?   In this week's episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting send out the "coaching call" to Donald Miller who shares straightforward strategies for managing cash flow during tough times. You'll learn how to build a financial safety net, quickly generate extra cash, and bundle products to boost sales. Don also talks about staying calm under pressure and turning challenges into growth opportunities. Whether you're facing cash flow issues now or want to prepare for the future, listen in to get the tools you need to keep your business strong when revenue dips.   Get free access to the ultimate growth tool for your small business featuring 11 free worksheets and templates to drive revenue and profit. Just go to SmallBusinessFlightPlan.com/BMS.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

So you've built a thriving business. You've got the airplane humming along, maybe even hitting 7 figures. But there's a nagging question in the back of your mind: "What's it all for?" Deep down, you want to make a difference, leave a legacy, maybe even inspire the next generation. But how? And do you really have to choose between profit and purpose?   In this episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts James Sweeting and Bobby Richards sit down with Bill Allen, a real estate investor and founder of a youth entrepreneurship program called Teenage Tycoon. Bill shares his journey from flipping houses to empowering kids to take control of their financial futures. You'll learn how to identify your community's needs, create impactful programs (without losing profit), and run a business that serves in multiple ways. Listen in to get inspired and discover how your business can make a true difference in the world!   7FigureFlipping.com   TeenageTycoon.com   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Rob and Greg are in studio this week along with a brand new guest, Jill Richards Franco, daughter of British drummer and composer Bobby Richards and sister of David Richards, music producer (Queen, David Bowie).Stay tuned after the show for live performance of "Georgy Girl" from our own in house maestro, Andy Calabrese. Sit back and enjoy! Keep on staying safe and supporting those local businesses and musicians.The Maestro

Why do some of us minimize and reduce the number of choices while others seek excitement and novelty? Why do some of us need everything listed out while others need to just try something blindly? The secret? Different types of ADHD and different ways our ADHD shows up in different environments! David and Isabelle are joined by Bobby and Noah, who also have ADHD, and talk about things like trying to leave the house, deciding what to eat, and why their accommodations all look so different.-----Transitions and choices are hard. Isabelle and David are joined by Isabelle's husband, Bobby, and David's friend and fellow clinician, Noah, both of whom also have ADHD to talk about different types of ADHD. We don't remember all the stuff we have to do to leave the house. Isabelle describes a detailed whiteboard and just how long it took to get into the habit of not forgetting things like lip balm. David puts everything into his bag at night. Isabelle has to do a one-touch rule. Noah's and Bobby's work bag are empty. Bobby's really into minimizing things, which David points out is a wonderful intervention, especially for inattentive type— decision fatigue. Noah does this for going out, always ordering a blackened chicken sandwich. How exhausting it is to make decisions all the time. Noah's experience in a blind restaurant. Bobby's picky eating is connected to something ADHD-related—hypersensitivity around texture. David's experience of this is big after decades of vegetarianism, experiencing the texture of meat for the first time (bacon and hot dogs are great. Other meat for him? Not so much). Isabelle references the Paradox of Choice book (TLDR) and describes the phenomena of randomly remembering facts she's read, but struggling to remember what she read on command. Recognizing that when there is an overabundance of choice, we think we made the wrong one (or are left more disatisfied) because we always think we could've picked better. This relates to Isabelle's reaction to Tinder as something that makes her nauseous thinking about it: too many choices. Same with old school diner menus. Or Cheesecake Factory menus. David agrees. Isabelle describes novelty seeking with food, whereas Bobby wants the same thing. David went to Superdawg and got everything on the menu he wanted because he couldn't make a decision. Noah would go there, deliberate what to get for 20 minutes, and leave with nothing. Why do we all sound so different and yet similar? We're talking about the distinctions between inattentive and impulsive ADHD types. What about combined type? Depends on the mastery of the environment: the more mastery, the more impulsive we can be, the less mastery, the more inattentive.What is Superdawg? If you're in and around Chicago, you're welcome to check it out. If you're not, it's still a fun place to look into.  From the bottom of our pure beefy hearts. Paradox of Choice - book by Barry Schwartz (TLDR for Isabelle but an interesting summary appears on wikipedia). DEFINITIONSADHD types explained through how we order at a restaurant:inattentive type: struggles to figure out what to order, stares at menu (accommodations: always orders the same thing or same type of thing, asking the server for their choice/having the chef or someone else choose for you)impulsive type: orders three different entrees (to try them all), or the novel/strange seeming thing on the menu (accommodations: finding new places to eat or food bars where you can throw on whatever you want in that moment)combination type: see above and experience BOTH, often depending on your level of mastery/comfort (more mastery in the environment, the more your impulsivity shows up). Decision fatigue: the more decisions we make, the more our quality of decisions (or ability to do so well) deteriorates. Too many decisions can lead to an overwhelming feeling, burnout and poor decisions. Avoiding the complexity of decisions, can be an adaptive tool for individuals to preserve brain power for more important decisions, especially when the inattentive-type ADHD experience is loud. Here's an article on how to notice when it's happening to you.Hypersensitivity around texture: some textures are going to make people feel more yucky inside than you would think they could. Often times it can be really helpful to honor these sensitivities, and not try to push through them unless there's serious impact on food and nutrition.Here's a quick article on how to cope with hypersensitivities to sound, texture, taste, smell, etc. -----Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

As a business owner, you might be a sales superstar, but teaching your team to replicate your conversations with potential clients can feel next to impossible. After all, you know the company's origin story and the ins-and-outs of the product like the back of your hand. But in order to scale your business, you need to transition from being the primary salesperson to having a high-performing sales team. And to do that, you need a consistent sales process.   In this week's episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Chad Cannon, Business Made Simple's VP of Sales and Marketing. Chad shares his simple 8-step sales process that he used to close the first 400 seats in a business coaching program. You'll learn how to build rapport, uncover pain points, and ask for the sale in a way that feels natural and authentic (not overly scripted!). Listen in and get Chad's battle-tested strategy for selling and scaling consistently!   Create the talking points for your next discovery email or sales meeting at OnlineSalesScript.com.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

You've probably heard the phrase "content is king" more times than you can count. But creating content that truly drives sales is easier said than done. Many biz owners struggle to produce content that hits on all levels: it feels authentic, builds trust, and makes an impact on their bottom line. You might be wondering: How can I create content that my target audience actually wants to read?   In this week's episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting chat with Marcus Sheridan, author of "They Ask, You Answer", to discuss his proven framework for creating content that converts. Marcus shares his journey from near-bankruptcy to becoming a multimillionaire by simply answering customer questions honestly and transparently. You'll learn the 5 types of content that every business should be creating, and how to use AI to enhance your content strategy. Listen in and discover the secret to becoming the most trusted voice in your market and driving more customers to your business.   Follow Marcus on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/marcussheridan or email directly at marcus@marcussheridan.com.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

As a business owner, you know that a high-performing team is essential to success. But what if your team isn't performing at its best? If communication is breaking down, productivity is low, and your goals are slipping out of reach, it might be time to look at a surprising factor many leaders miss. The secret to a high-performing team isn't a complicated strategy or expensive software; it's something much simpler: feedback.    In the latest episode of the Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Erin Meyer, New York Times bestselling author and professor at INSEAD Business School, to discuss why feedback is essential, how to give it effectively, and the common pitfalls to avoid. Whether you're a seasoned CEO or a first-time manager, tune in and learn how to create a feedback-rich culture that drives your team to new heights!   Find more info about Erin Meyer at ErinMeyer.com or connect with her on LinkedIn: https://fr.linkedin.com/in/erin-meyer-paris.   Listen to Erin's past episode #34: Erin Meyer—Rewrite the Rules for Growing Your Business: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/erin-meyer-rewrite-the-rules-for-growing-your-business/id1092751338?i=1000532788641   Get instant access the Management and Productivity Framework (including the 5 Key Meetings) at businessmadesimple.com/management-and-productivity-made-simple.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Let's talk about the elephant in the room for a second: the relentless hustle and grind of building a business. The entrepreneurial world can be a demanding beast, often forcing us to sacrifice our personal lives in the pursuit of success. Yes, you love your business, but you didn't sign up to be married to it. The truth is, chasing success doesn't have to mean sacrificing your personal life. You deserve to have both.   Kicking off our brand new Become a Better Business Owner series, hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting chat with Megan Hyatt Miller, CEO of Full Focus, about achieving what she calls the "double win." Megan is here to give you practical strategies for building a successful business without burning out or neglecting the things that truly matter. She shares her own journey of balancing entrepreneurship with family life, and shows you how to prioritize like a pro, set boundaries, and ultimately create a life that's fulfilling both in and out of the office. Listen to today's episode if you're ready to ditch the hustle and embrace a more sustainable, fulfilling path to success.   Get the tools and training you need to achieve the Double Win at FullFocus.co.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Does feedback sting extra hard? David introduces the concept of rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), where you interpret feedback or questions or redirections as being very harsh and personal, and then really take it to heart—even if that's not really what is being communicated to you--and how this plays into relationships. This episode, David and Isabelle are joined by fellow ADHD clinician, Noah, and Isabelle's husband, Bobby, who both also have ADHD.-----Isabelle & David welcome Isabelle's husband, Bobby, and David's friend and fellow clinician, Noah, who both also have ADHD. David introduces the concept of rejection sensitive dysphoria (RSD), where you interpret feedback or questions or redirections as being very harsh and personal, and then really take it to heart—even if that's not really what is being communicated to you (example: Did you empty the dishwasher? Someone with RSD: WHY DO YOU THINK I'M LAZY?!) What do you do if you and your partner BOTH have RSD and ADHD? Awareness is gamechanging. How you give people the feedback that maybe they're taking your feedback too personally/harshly? There is a comedic setup in giving people the feedback that they may not take feedback well. What if your partner is neurotypical and feels like your ADHD hyper focus forgetfulness feels like you're doing things on purpose, then you go down a shame spiral of forgetting (for example)? The neurotypical partner may have resentment towards the behaviors and also, how can it get better? It will happen again, we will fail. Not trying to be something you're not, but also always working to improve and putting in effort, as well as paying attention to repairs and actually doing the work to prioritize what your partner's needs are-speaking their love language (see Gary Chapman's Love Languages below). How RSD connects to years of feeling like you're failing and getting social feedback there's something wrong with you. The importance of finding a partner who accepts you and gets that ADHD is not going away.WHO IS GOTTMAN? Basically John & Julie Gottman are relationship gurus who found an institute years ago where they research how people in relationships interact scientifically. With their experience they define the individual ways we crave, express and accept love from others. For more information, check out: https://www.gottman.com/DAVID'S DEFINITIONS of Gary Chapman's Love Languages (https://www.5lovelanguages.com):1. words of affirmation - talking about your feelings of intimacy, appreciation or praise to another person 2. quality time - making time to be in close proximity with another person doing a preferable task3. physical touch - acts of touching, kissing, hugging, physical acts of closeness4. acts of service - being able to take care of things or fix problems for other people5. receiving gifts - feeling appreciation from the things that are given to you by another person-------cover art by: Sol Vázqueztechnical support by: Bobby Richards

Here's a stark warning: heart disease is America's #1 killer, and stress is heart disease's #1 predictor. When your work/life balance is out of whack, stress only grows. How business owners manage this delicate highwire act is quite literally a matter of life and death. Thankfully, today we recognize the link between work/life balance and overall health, and there are steps anyone can take to improve that balance and their quality of life.   Today, host Donald Miller sits down with fellow Business Made Simple leaders James Sweeting and Bobby Richards. Their discussion covers Don's own struggles with balancing work and life, and how he was able to make positive changes that helped both his business and his family. You'll pick up practical tips from Don's experience, learn three principles to preserving work/life balance, and dive into the philosophy behind reframing your entire conception of success. If you feel like so many business owners do — stretched thin and afraid of burning out — be sure to catch this episode and discover what you can change today to begin restoring balance to your world.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

The enemy of clarity is chaos and confusion. Not only is that true in your marketing and messaging, it's true in your everyday work. But how many times have you or your team misplaced an important file, been locked out of a vital platform, or even discovered a digital asset you thought you owned was actually never yours to begin with? That kind of chaotic disorganization can bring any business to a halt.   In today's episode, guest hosts Bobby Richards and James Sweeting sit down with Shawn Lemon, founder of The Digital Organizer. Shawn shows us what's at stake when digital disorganization allows chaos to rule our business roost, as well as helping to identify the common symptoms of a disorganized workplace. He shares several tips that any business owner – from solopreneurs to leaders at large corporations – can take right now to address chaos head-on. As Shawn says, this common problem is no reason to feel shame or experience blame: there are plenty of simple but effective steps you can take to eliminate chaos and bring order to your organization.   Go to  TheDigitalOrganizer.com, click "Take the Quiz" and find out how effective your digital organization systems are and where you should put your effort first.   Then get the steps you need to start crafting a calm digital oasis in your workspace and access the free guide exclusive to Business Made Simple Podcast listeners at TheDigitalOrganizer.com/BMS.    --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE US COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DONALD MILLER'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Everything you ever wanted to know about ADHD...continues! WOOHOO! Go back and check out Part I, or start here to learn more about what's happening in the brain, how to use environments to cue ourselves, how debate and manufactured fights can be ways to help you focus, and more! The things that are easy, hard, and all the myths and misperceptions that exist about what is really not a deficit, but rather an abundance and variety of, attention. The second part in a series from David, who has lectured as an expert and advocate on this subject nationally, and assisted by Isabelle, who is eagerly sponging up the information. A neurodivergent and neurotypical blend of friends Christina, AJ, Gabe, and Isabelle's husband, Bobby, sit in to ask questions. (Part II of David's Lecture Series)---(Part II of David's Lecture Series) Isabelle & David welcome Isabelle's husband, Bobby, and their friends, Christina, AJ, and Gabe, to continue to listen and learn from David's tried and tested presentation on ADHD, which he normally gives to fellow clinicians (for the first part of this talk, please see episode 4, David's Lecture: All About ADHD!).  We talk about Auditory Processing Disorder (APD) which often also exists alongside ADHD; however, they are two different things. ADHD can make you more prone to distraction when you hear sounds, no APD (see definition below).  ADHD can also coexist with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). David gets nerdy about how blood flow to certain parts of our brain connects to distraction, and how our environment can also cue us to shift blood flow to the forebrain (prefrontal cortex). Gabe notes that sports served as an important accommodation. David makes the comparison that it's like having an energy bar in a video game, and if you don't use it during your day, it will become anxious rumination at night. David and Bobby get distracted by Bobby's audio equipment (or Bobby tweaking his audio settings) and David points out that being oppositional rewards us with dopamine. Debate as a dopamine booster. As a parent, how do you get out of power struggles. Talking about ADHD as too much gas (hyperactive) and too much brakes (inattentive); combined type is both, and environmentally cued (the more comfortable you are, the more gas; the less comfortable you are, the more brakes).  What about ADHD on vacation? We can get more irritable or more chill, and it can be because we have uprooted our accommodations: the structure we have in place at home that helps us get along. So we can start to manufacture structure (including undertaking vacation-only projects, getting into a predictable arguments, reading a book in a day, etc.). When we understand how ADHD impacts us (for example, starting to write a book on vacation to cleverly avoid interactions we don't want to have, plus building in structure…but not finishing because we didn't factor in the response cost of it) we can work with it.Click here for slides from David's lecture.How genetically loaded is ADHD?Pretty loaded. For more on this, check out this article in Nature (prepare for science!)On a related note, this article also points to ADHD being more of a spectrum than previously thought; as the article mentions:"Accumulating evidence from family, twin, and molecular genetic studies suggests that the disorder we know as ADHD is the extreme of a dimensional trait in the population. The dimensional nature of ADHD has wide-ranging implications. If we view ADHD as analogous to cholesterol levels, then diagnostic approaches should focus on defining the full continuum of “ADHD-traits” along with clinically meaningful thresholds for defining who does and does not need treatment and who has clinically subthreshold traits that call for careful monitoring. The dimensional nature of ADHD should also shift the debate about the increases in ADHD's prevalence in recent years. Instead of assuming that misdiagnoses are the main explanation for the increased prevalence, perhaps researchers should explore to what extent the threshold for diagnosis has decreased over time and whether changes in the threshold are clinically sensible or not.”In other words, ADHD is part of a set of traits that live along a spectrum, and since we tend to diagnose ADHD when those traits/behaviors/experiences are read as a problem, we lump it into it's own bag, when really it might turn out to be a neurodivergent branch of the same tree. And so those with ADHD can exist all along a spectrum, too! Hence: calling it attentional variability rather than a deficit.DAVID'S DEFINITIONS:Auditory Processing Disorder (APD): a hearing disorder and has to do with how the brain processes auditory information. APD can impact attention as well, but it's not ADHD. Note: ADHD can make it harder to hear certain sounds, for example a person's voice in a noisy setting, but the mechanism behind why it's hard is different than APD. Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASDs): a group of developmental differences (AKA neurodiversity or differences in the brain) that can cause increased sensitivity to stimulation, social, communication and behavioral challenges.  Prefrontal Cortex (PFC): also known as the forebrain, is a part of the brain that, through dopamine, is linked to executive functioning, or the skills (check out the list below) that help you pay attention, curb your impulses, take in memories (working memory), and play with different scenarios and outcomes (cognitive flexibility), for starters. For further reading, check out this super science-y article. Forebrain skills that are harder for folks with ADHD (no matter the type): Response Cost - neurological skill that helps you know the consequences of your actions later on down the road Delay of Gratification - receiving the reward or win, well after the behavior occurs.Black and White Thinking - believing or acting as if there are only two ways of thinking right or wrong. Black and white thinking makes it harder to see middle paths during an argumentTime and Organization Skills - knowing how long tasks will take, planning transition times into tasks, appropriately guessing how long something will take, or all parts of time and organizational skills.-------cover art by: Sol Vázqueztechnical support by: Bobby Richards

Do you find it difficult to take your product ideas from the drawing board to the market? When it comes to new products, too many teams encounter obstacles like missed deadlines, inflated budgets, and a final product that doesn't align with the original vision. These pitfalls can be frustrating and destroy would-be successful product launches and growth plans. So how can businesses streamline the product development process? What steps should you take to turn visionary concepts into tangible, market-ready products without losing clarity or momentum along the way?   In this week's episode, guest hosts James Sweeting and Bobby Richards talk with Kyle Reid, Senior Vice President of Design and Development at StoryBrand and Business Made Simple. Kyle shares a simple 5-step process he has perfected over years of launching successful products. From the first meeting to the final launch, Kyle's method helps keep projects on track, within budget, and true to the original idea. Tune in and learn how to apply these strategies to your own initiatives to elevate your approach to project management, teamwork, and execution!   Access the product brief template mentioned in this episode for FREE at SmallBusinessFlightPlan.com.    --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Often, the hardest part of any sales process isn't starting—it's closing. Many businesses struggle to seal the deal, especially during high-stakes, competitive shopping periods like Memorial Day. You've made the offer, you've attracted the attention—now, how do you convert that interest into actual sales? The secret lies in effective closing techniques that resonate with your audience and inspire them to take action. As Memorial Day draws nearer, the pressure's on to make sure that your holiday promotions don't just generate buzz, but bring in big profits. So what's the best way to usher folks through the checkout line?   In this episode, we wrap up our 3-part series on crafting the perfect Memorial Day promotion. Returning to the podcast are producer Bobby Richards, Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller, and StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay. They are joined by special guest Dr. J.J. Peterson, Head of StoryBrand and host of the Marketing Made Simple Podcast. Together, they delve into the critical final phase of your Memorial Day offer: closing the sale. From creating a sense of urgency to offering extra value, you'll learn top strategies for making sure your promotions not only draw attention but also drive sales. Tune in to make the most of your Memorial Day offers and convert those last-minute decisions into holiday revenue!   Clarify all your marketing and messaging talking points by creating your free Brandscript at Storybrand.com/sb7.   Contact Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller directly at HireACoach.com/Jessica-Miller.   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/wesgay.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

The marketplace can feel hectic during big promotional holidays like Memorial Day. So if you want to make it a record-breaking sales opportunity for your small business, there's only one solution. Create an offer that's simply irresistible. That means you've got to understand what resonates for your audience and come up with a value proposition they can't say no to. With the shopping frenzy upon us, how do you ensure your offer not only stands out but calls out to the customers, compelling them to act immediately?    This week, we're diving into Part 2 of our 3-part series on creating stellar Memorial Day promotions. Podcast producer Bobby Richards, along with Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller and StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay, unpack the process of taking those initial offer strategies discussed in Part 1 and locking them in. You'll learn a simple 3-part framework for building and refining your promotion so that it commands attention and drives sales. They'll also show you what to add to your promotions to make them irresistible and actionable. Listen in and learn how to craft a holiday offer that's too good to pass up!   Contact Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller directly at HireACoach.com/Jessica-Miller.   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/wesgay.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

We're all well aware of the shopping frenzy on Black Friday, but we tend to forget that other holidays like Memorial Day can be just as profitable. Many businesses miss out because they don't realize how ready their customers are to spend money during these holidays. With Memorial Day approaching—a peak time for consumer activity—not having a strong offer can mean squandering a massive chance to boost sales. So what steps can you take to ensure you have an irresistible offer prepared when customers are primed with cash and ready to buy?   In today's episode, host Donald Miller and podcast producer Bobby Richards are joined by Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller and StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay. Together, they dive into how you can craft what Jessica has coined a "Hell Yes" offer for this Memorial Day weekend. They're dishing out the top strategies for businesses to seize this prime shopping period to drive sales and visibility. You'll learn the mechanics of creating a compelling offer that converts and how to effectively communicate it to your audience. Listen in and get the tools you need to take advantage of high-traffic opportunities and maximize your profits during this holiday season!   Contact Business Made Simple Certified Coach Jessica Miller directly at HireACoach.com/Jessica-Miller.   Contact StoryBrand Certified Guide Wes Gay directly at MarketingMadeSimple.com/wesgay.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Needing to clarify your message so more customers engage? Register for our upcoming StoryBrand Marketing Workshop May 7-8, 2024 at StoryBrand.com/Workshop. In this virtual workshop you will learn directly from Donald Miller and Dr. J.J. Peterson how to create a clear message and walk away with a 5-part marketing plan to help boost revenue and grow your business. Register now at StoryBrand.com/Workshop.   --   Every savvy business owner knows that marketing is the key to survival, and your online presence is one of the most important parts of your marketing plan. It can turn casual browsers into buyers, and buyers into long-time customers. But you won't build that loyal fanbase if your message is unclear or inconsistent. On top of that, you could end up wasting a lot of time and money on marketing that doesn't work. So how clear is your current message, and how can you make it better?    In this episode of Business Made Simple, guest host Dr. JJ Peterson (host of Marketing Made Simple) and podcast producer Bobby Richards answer your questions about building your business through effective messaging and lead generation. They'll reveal the key things missing from your website that are costing you money and the 3 questions your marketing MUST answer to be significantly more successful. You'll also discover the 7 basic elements that make your marketing story more powerful. Tune in and get actionable strategies to clarify your message and make your business thrive!   Listen and follow to the Marketing Made Simple Podcast and get weekly tips from J.J. and April Sunshine Hawkins on how to make your marketing easy and make it work. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/marketing-made-simple/id1569923210   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Coach Builder is available now! Order it at CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast and get an 8-step plan to become a self-employed business coach so you can make great money doing something you love every single day.   --   What are the characteristics of a great coach? Knowing your field inside out is crucial, but there's something else just as important: soft skills. These are the skills that help you connect on a personal level, earn trust, and provide real value to your clients. Unfortunately, a lot of coaches overlook this area, focusing only on their technical expertise. They miss out on truly connecting with their clients and making a lasting impact. But if you want to succeed as a coach, soft skills aren't an option—they're a necessity.   In the 9th and final episode of the Coach Builder limited series, host Donald Miller joined by producer Bobby Richards, tackle the often-underestimated world of soft skills for coaches. Don explores the qualities that endear us to coaches and cause us to respect them. He offers actionable advice on how to cultivate these qualities within yourself to set you apart as a coach and amplify your impact on clients' lives. Tune in and learn invaluable strategies for improving empathy, communication, and trust-building techniques, ensuring you leave a meaningful mark on your clients' lives.

What if the secret to doing really well in business isn't about the newest tech or the flashiest ads, but about how happy and motivated your team is? A great work culture is key to growing your business. It's what makes people want to work for you, fuels innovation, and keeps things running smoothly even when times get tough. But cultivating such a culture isn't easy, especially with the ever-evolving changes in the modern workforce and inevitable challenges in the market. So if your workplace isn't performing at its peak, don't worry—changing things for the better is possible and well worth it.   In this week's April Fools' episode, host Amy Porterfield takes over for Donald Miller. Amy is an online marketing expert, author of Two Weeks Notice, and owner of a thriving $100M business. And no joke, she'll show you how to make bold moves to improve your team's workplace culture. With the help of podcast producer Bobby Richards, she answers burning questions from our listeners, giving actionable advice on hot issues like installing a 4-day workweek, navigating unlimited PTO, planning effective team retreats, and supporting personal growth plans. Tune in and get the scoop on how to enhance your team's dynamics, boost productivity, and drive your business forward!   For more tips and a free guide on how to welcome new team members in a way that sets them up for success, check out AmyPorterfield.com/Onboard.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Coach Builder is available now! Order it at CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast and get an 8-step plan to become a self-employed business coach so you can make great money doing something you love every single day.   --   Working for yourself as a coach is a double-edged sword. It gives you space to innovate and plan, but it can also lack the vibrant exchange of ideas that fuels growth. Dealing with the loneliness that comes with the job is a challenge because it means there's no one to share ideas with, no different viewpoints, and no feeling of team spirit. If you're not careful, it can stop you from growing. So how can a coach avoid the downsides of working in a silo?   In the 8th episode of our Coach Builder limited series, host Donald Miller joined by producer Bobby Richards, explore why being part of a community is pivotal for coaches. Don will show you how a supportive network becomes a cornerstone for any coach who wants to succeed. A good community gives you motivation, offers tips and best practices, and holds you accountable to your goals, which can greatly impact the growth of your coaching business. Tune in and get practical guidance on how to either find or start a coaching community, so you're not going through your coaching journey alone!    

Coach Builder is available now! Order it at CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast and get an 8-step plan to become a self-employed business coach so you can make great money doing something you love every single day.   --   Are you a coach wondering where your next paycheck will come from? Many consultants and coaches are concerned about earning enough and growing their business. They're anxious about maintaining a steady income, debating whether to quit their job for full-time coaching, and questioning if they can keep their business afloat during tough times. Simply hoping isn't enough to achieve financial stability and build a strong business. You need a solid plan for setting and achieving realistic goals.   In the 7th episode of our Coach Builder limited series, host Donald Miller, joined by producer Bobby Richards, shares strategies for setting effective goals to advance your coaching business. He'll show you how to set realistic financial targets, decide how many products to sell, and understand the best ways to connect with customers. Focusing on these key areas will lead you to a profitable coaching career. Listen in and learn how to turn your financial concerns into practical steps toward success.     

When we ignore conflicts in the workplace, it can actually make things worse. It can make people less interested in their jobs, cause good employees to leave, and ultimately impact the bottom line of your business. Sweeping conflicts under the rug doesn't make them disappear. It makes them grow and fester which can lead to a toxic work environment and higher turnover rates. So what's the best way to approach difficult conversations at work so that it fosters a culture of open communication and mutual respect?   In this week's episode, host Donald Miller and producer Bobby RIchards are joined by Michael Bungay Stanier, bestselling author of The Coaching Habit and How to Work with Almost Anybody. A leading expert in workplace relationships, Michael shares his tips on improving emotional intelligence, managing conflict, and using psychological tools to navigate workplace dynamics more effectively. You'll walk away knowing how to deal with common problems that cause strain at work and how to better handle those challenging situations. Tune in and learn how to turn workplace tensions into opportunities for growth, connection, and collaboration!   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    ORDER COACH BUILDER, DON'S NEW BOOK, AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Feeling anxious about your business? You're not alone. Entrepreneurship and anxiety often go hand-in-hand. It's the uninvited guest that overstays its welcome, casting a dark cloud over our decision-making, creativity, and leadership. It's easy to think that this anxiety is a roadblock to your success. But what if we told you that your anxiety could be a secret weapon?    In this week's episode, guest hosts James Sweeting, Director of Story at Business Made Simple, and podcast producer Bobby Richards step in for Donald Miller to explore an all-new approach to anxiety with Dr. David Rosmarin. Dr. Rosmarin is an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, founder of the Center for Anxiety, and author of Thriving with Anxiety: 9 Tools to Make Anxiety Work for You. He's here to help change the narrative around anxiety. If you're feeling the weight of your business on your shoulders, this episode is for you. Listen in and learn practical tools and strategies to not only manage anxiety, but use it as a catalyst for growth and success in business.   Order Thirving with Anxiety on Amazon or wherever you buy books. You can also get Dr. Rosmarin's free guide to thriving with anxiety at DHRosmarin.com.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    PRE-ORDER COACH BUILDER THE BOOK AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Are you mulling over the decision to leave your job, but worried about the potential fallout? Quitting a job is never a simple decision. It's fraught with concerns about the future, your career prospects, and your professional relationships. And the fear of leaving on bad terms can be paralyzing. How will your boss react? Will your colleagues view you differently? The possibility of leaving a job and inadvertently damaging your professional reputation or losing the respect of those you value can keep you stuck in a place you don't belong. So what's the best approach to quitting your job without burning any bridges?   In this week's episode, host Donald Miller chats with podcast producer Bobby Richards to tackle this topic head-on. They'll show you how to gracefully exit your current position, while keeping your professional network intact and maybe even boosting the respect others have for you in the process. Tune in and learn practical strategies for a seamless transition so you can feel confident taking the next step in your career without the worry of negative repercussions.   --   STUCK TRYING TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS? SUBMIT YOUR QUESTION FOR A CHANCE TO HAVE DON COACH THROUGH IT ON THE SHOW: BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast    PRE-ORDER COACH BUILDER THE BOOK AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Your coaching website is the first thing people see about you, so it needs to make a good impression fast. But more importantly, it needs to be all about the people you want to help. This means when they visit your site, they should feel like you're talking right to them. It should clearly explain that you understand their problems and have the perfect way to help solve them. But most coaches are getting this wrong. So how do you create a website that makes it easy for potential clients to see why they should choose you as a coach?   In the 4th episode of our Coach Builder limited series, host Donald Miller and producer Bobby Richards, show you how to design a coaching website that helps you land more clients and increase your revenue. Don also teaches you the common pitfalls to avoid in your website design and messaging, as well as what needs to be included for your website to resonate with potential clients. Tune in and learn how to leverage your website as a powerful tool for building relationships and growing a successful coaching business.   To get the BONUS Coach Websites That Work PDF Don called out in this episode, go to CoachBuilder.com/WebsitePDF.   Pre-order Coach Builder, Donald Miller's new book, at CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast. 

Creating a job description that gets the right people interested is not as easy as it might sound. It's even more challenging when it's your first time hiring or when you're adding more people to your team. The key is to strike the right balance of talking about what skills they need and also what problems they might encounter on the job. So how do you write a job description that accurately explains what you're looking for and also talks about the challenges that might come up?    Today, host Donald Miller and producer Bobby Richards take your questions around the process of how to hire, conduct interviews, and write job descriptions. Donald offers a valuable look into the hiring process, emphasizing the importance of considering both the positive attributes and the potential drawbacks of candidates. You'll learn why it's important to be self-aware as a leader, how to avoid hiring disasters, and how to find people who fit well with your business and your way of managing. Tune in and get practical advice that'll help you make smart hiring choices that add to your business's growth and culture!   Stuck trying to grow your business? Submit your question at BusinessMadeSimple.com/Podcast for a chance to have Don coach through it on the show.   --   PRE-ORDER COACH BUILDER THE BOOK AND TRANSFORM YOUR EXPERTISE INTO A LUCRATIVE CONSULTING CAREER: CoachBuilderBook.com/Podcast   IF YOU'RE SERIOUS ABOUT IMPLEMENTING A PLAN TO GROW YOUR BUSINESS AND REVENUE, FLIGHT SCHOOL IS FOR YOU! JOIN NOW: SmallBusinessFlightSchool.com.   FIND AND FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM: Instagram.com/BusinessMadeSimple

Ever shown up at a holiday meal and immediately realized with a sinking feeling- "Not again…I don't can't eat anything here…" this episode's for you! From honoring the cook's efforts while not betraying your own needs, to recognizing the joys of chewing on pens and ice, join David and Isabelle as we embrace our sensory sensitivities and make our own neurodivergent-friendly and inclusive traditions. Check out our Holiday Survival Guide!——David and Isabelle stare down the fast moving train of holidays and expectations that is barreling toward us right now. As we approach Thanksgiving we have a bunch of "shoulds" coming at us--we should be like everyone else and even though we have sensory issues with cars, and sounds, and people, and all that stuff. Everything from sitting still from being held hostage on a plane or in the car, or being stuck in a service or sit at a table, or eating - the sound, the food, the overstimulation, while simultaneously coupled with frustration and your routine being destroyed, and all of this at the same time. This explains why Isabelle has a lurching sense of dread approaching this time of year. The holiday dread is real. David and Isabelle have covered other aspects of holidays, like speaking with family, and the glories and pains of holiday travel, and here they are focusing on food and sensory sensitivities. Isabelle remembers how growing up she was known as a picky eater but actually there were a lot of sensory sensitivities going on. She had memories of celebrating “wigilia” (Polish Christmas Eve celebration) and sitting at a much larger table, with much more eyes on her, and as someone who only ate pretty much chicken and white rice and potatoes, she was facing down a traditional non-meat meal of 12 mostly fish-based dishes (such as pickled herring). You fast before this evening meal, and then you commence the eating. She would be lightheaded and nauseous because she'd be so hungry and would fill up on dinner rolls with butter, everyone is judging and commenting, then she lives on the high of opening presents, and then they'd go to midnight mass at midnight, and then they'd light candles and means the oxygen is rapidly leaving the area in an enclosed place and so she'd either pass out and throw up. Everyone can look back in time and find the holiday memories of “we can't believe we did that on purpose.” We don't make time any other time of year to have these rituals, and see each other, and it's really about connections, yet we get caught up in following these rules that don't always work. Isabelle thinks about how for years she carried the shame around this being her fault, she's the picky eater that would end up passing out or throwing up, but then thinks about how easy it would've been to provide some kind of option for her. That there are traditions and ways of keeping the meaning behind the traditions, but also making even small accommodations that can make all the difference to us. How we can always make new traditions. There's a really hard part with food: there are people that work really hard for hours in the kitchen and they want you to try and see what you like about it and not like about it—how can we try certain things that work for us, and how can we bring our own food—like here's my tub of Mac and cheese, there has to be a middle path. The way to be a gracious guest and host, and how as neurodivergent folks we can prefer to host because it gives us structure, she can stay on her feet, it helps her mask less. What is this about ADHD and food sensitivities? There's a lot around taste aversion, what happens when we associate a food item with a thought in our head—like “eww, this tastes like sand” and we don't eat sand…or boogers. To make the eating experience a lot more about the flavors they're experiencing rather than the thought in the brain. Is it salty? Sweet? Savory? Textures? David is a texture person, there is a fine line between “this is edible” and “this makes me gag”—like bananas, one day to the next changes. Isabelle and David firmly agree on bananas being this type of thing, and Isabelle does not do overripe bananas, you make it a cooking liquid and you put it in banana bread. David also likes drinkable yogurt and he doesn't mind it because he's drinking it. If he's moving his mouth hole up and down there needs to be something there to fight my mouth.” And crunching is stimulating and stress reducing. Whether we're chewing ice or almost-cutting-the-top-of-your-mouth bread crust. Is it the act of chewing that's stress reducing, or something crunchy is stress reducing? Isabelle notices chewy things, like gum, gummy chews, and chip crunch, or a cold crunch, she does not like it—there are special ice cubes that collapse in your mouth that shrink in your mouth. Tiny ball ices at Sonic or certain places have that. David knows chewing gum is a stimulation, and David is hazarding guesses with the crunching thing (like it's objectively dominating something in your mouth, or you're making progress, or it's the sound itself)—there are a lot of parts of that that is soothing. If it's paired with dopamine, your chocolate chip cookie crunch is paired with delight and celery crunch is a HORROR to Isabelle. David's favorite crunch is an apple-pear crunch, or a jicama crunch. What is an apple-pear? What is it exactly? This links us to grapples (apples that taste like grapes), and cotton-candy grapes (it's too much) and champagne grapes and boba. Isabelle loves it, and David describes how he never got boba, he just thought they were fun to launch and make stick to the things, and then years later, it was cold, and he got the boba and then he had a moment when all of a sudden, he chewed it up and was like boba. “Boba, you're delicious!” And now he's a full boba fan. There was a challenge to himself to experience it again. Isabelle wants to go on 800 food related tangents and realizes it might be a food related special interest. The sound of the crunch is a tiny sonic boom in your mouth. And David leans on a couch with his hand on his chin and his finger got in and he accidentally came down on his finger absentmindedly, and you can't even pretend to bite yourself, oh my goodness, it is so painful and powerful. Every time Isabelle bites her tongue or cheek it feels like she severs her tongue. But also, why did David put his finger in his mouth accidentally? And if he put his finger in his mouth and chew it. Isabelle loved chewing pen cap (old school pic pen caps), and she'd chew on everything. She'd also chew on lollipop sticks, she chews on the cupcake wrapper, she doesn't ingest these things and doesn't like chewing, but she loves chewing paper and the pen cap, and it got vertical in her mouth and it sliced a line in the center of the tongue, and she still has a divet. Every single person who is listening has done something like that, or has eaten too many sour patch kids, or has eaten hot pizza too fast and burned their mouth open. This connects to masking and needing stimulation, and a little bit of clumsiness, oral gratification, and it's important. Switching and making new fantasies for the holidays: if you have a picky eater, why don't you make that with them and bring that with them? Don't let the family shame you and make you thing you're doing anything wrong. Take care of your family. Including yourself. So many of us will give kids the room to offer them to ask for what they need or give them alternatives—but we don't model it ourselves. Grown up and kid, what actually is some of your favorite food?  For example, Isabelle is the only one in her family that likes Thanksgiving food so she's the one that makes herself a little feast for one of the traditional foods, and if we're so caught up in the idea everyone has to do the same thing, they can change it. David's brother Michael would set up a big thanksgiving table with turkey, stuffing, daal, Chicago hot dogs, green bean casserole, corn muffins, mashed potatoes, gravy— anything that people would like. It's not centered around ‘the turkey' there are people at that Thanksgiving that had 14 rolls. Changing the boundaries. A boundary is not what you're telling someone else they have to do, instead it's “here's what I'm going to do” — because if you're trying to tell someone else what to do or relying on someone else to accommodate you (like asking grandma to make a vegan option and she forgets butter is not vegan) —it fosters aggression, because they're bound to let you down, and carry resentment, and ick, and let it fester. But as a vegetarian, who is more equipped to bring the vegetarian option than the person who is vegetarian (like David did for years). Boundaries are around your behavior, around what you will tolerate, not what other people have to tolerate. All the random foods mentionedApple Pear - apple crunch with a pear flavor - also known as an Asian PearGrapples - apples that taste like grapesCotton Candy Grapes Champagne Grapes - little teeny tiny grapes (and here's more grapes!)Boba - actually tapioca pearls found in Boba or "bubble tea"Chip crunches are tiny sonic booms — check out the book “Gulp” by Mary Roach, or her shorter NY Times article in 2013, “The Marvels In Your Mouth” Chewing ice is stress relieving? In short, YES! And also get checked for iron-deficiency anemia. Especially for ND folks with autism, developing an oral fixation (chewing on stuff) is linked to stimming (soothing yourself through a predictable and enjoyable stimuli) -- here's what it can connect to (from Psych Central's article) "Medical: easing pain, alleviating discomfort Sensory: seeking texture and taste, overwhelming environment, sensory overload, sensory processing disorder Behavioral: lack of understanding, relieving stress and anxiety, avoiding something, looking for attention, noisy thoughts, uncontainable emotion" Chewing ice can help you focus (especially when it is also a symptom of iron deficiency anemia!) See Medical Hypothesis article excerpt below: "Chewing ice had no effect on the performance of healthy controls, but significantly improved the performance of anemic patients. Potential explanations include activation of the dive reflex, which would lead to peripheral vasoconstriction and preferential perfusion of the brain or, alternatively, sympathetic nervous system activation, which would also increase blood-flow to the brain."What is all that mean? Here's another article that explains it (source: pbs.org)Cover Art by: Sol VázquezTechnical Support by: Bobby Richards

This is a recast of a podcast conversation between Cameron and Bobby Richards, in which they discuss an issue that many people in business may not be aware of: what the role of a Chief Operations Officer really entails. During the discussion, they discuss the unique role of the COO, as the person who handles […] The post Ep. 289 – Conversation With Bobby Richards And Cameron Herold – Understanding The Role Of The COO appeared first on COO Alliance.

This is a recast of a podcast conversation between Cameron and Bobby Richards, in which they discuss an issue that many people in business may not be aware of: what the role of a Chief Operations Officer really entails. During the discussion, they discuss the unique role of the COO, as the person who handles […] The post Ep. 289 – Conversation with Bobby Richards and Cameron Herold – Understanding the Role of the COO appeared first on COO Alliance.