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All eyes have been on President Trump's address at the World Economic Forum. Michael Zezas, our Deputy Global Head of Research, and Ariana Salvatore, our Head of Public Policy Research, talk about potential implications for policy and the U.S. outlook.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Michael Zezas: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Michael Zezas, Deputy Global Head of Research for Morgan Stanley. Ariana Salvatore: And I'm Ariana Salvatore, Head of Public Policy Research. Michael Zezas: Today we're discussing our takeaways from President Trump's speech in Davos and what we think it means for investors. It's Wednesday, January 21st at 1pm in New York. Michael Zezas: So, Ariana, over the last couple of weeks, there's been a lot of news about policy proposals coming out of the U.S. and from President Trump around affordability, as well as some geopolitical events around the U.S. relationship with Europe. And investors really started looking towards President Trump's speech at Davos, which he gave earlier today, as a potential vehicle to learn more about what these things would actually mean and what it might mean for the economic outlook and markets. Ariana Salvatore: Yeah, that's right. I think specifically investors were looking for the President to focus on affordability proposals pertaining to housing and some commentary around Greenland. Remember last weekend, President Trump proposed a 10 percent tariff on some EU countries related to this topic specifically. So obviously that did feature in his speech. What did we learn and what do you think are the most important things for markets to know? Michael Zezas: So, maybe the most important headline we got was President Trump appearing to take off the table the use of force when it comes to an attempt to acquire Greenland. And that would seem to, therefore, take off the table the idea of a broader rupture in the U.S.-EU relationship. Both the security relationship vis-a-vis NATO, as well as the economic relationship which could have been ruptured with higher tariffs on both sides, anti coercion measures around trade, and that would be of obvious economic importance. Europe is obviously a major importer of U.S. goods. Not as big as Canada or Mexico, but still pretty significant. So, anything that would've created higher barriers between the two would've had meaningful economic consequences for the U.S. outlook. Ariana Salvatore: Yeah, that's right. And we've been saying that the bilateral trade framework agreement between the U.S. and the EU is actually pretty tenuous in nature, right? So, this doesn't yet have formal backing from the European Parliament. They, in fact, delayed a vote on this exact deal, kind of on the back of these Greenland headlines. So how are we thinking about, you know, what's been priced into markets and maybe what this could mean for something like the dollar going forward? Michael Zezas: Yeah, so it's important to point out that we're not out of the woods yet in terms of potential trade escalation on both sides around the Greenland issue. However, it seems like that bigger tail problem of a decoupling might have gone away. And so, what you saw in markets so far today was that some of the actions over the past, kind of, 24-48 hours with equity market weakness. You know, the S&P was down about 2 percent yesterday. The dollar was weaker. It seemed like more term premium was being baked into the U.S. Treasury market. A lot of that appears to be unwinding today. Said more simply, the idea of a kind of riskier investment environment for the U.S. is getting priced out. At least today, it's getting priced out. And it all makes sense when you think about if there was less of a relationship between the U.S. and Europe, there would be less demand for U.S. dollar holdings overseas. And that's the type of thing that should manifest in a weaker dollar and higher term premia, steeper yield curves for U.S. Treasuries. Ariana Salvatore: Yeah, and that dovetails really nicely with the work that we just put out with the FX team, kind of highlighting some of the policy factors as push factors for countries to move away from the dollar. We think that's happening marginally. We think it's not really a risk in the immediate term, but some of these policy drivers can actually create dollar weakness over the medium to longer term. Michael Zezas: Of course, to the extent that we get news that this is a head fake and that tensions are re-escalating, you'd expect some of those trades to start pushing markets back in the other direction again. Now, President Trump also talked quite a bit about domestic policy, largely about affordability, and some of the policy proposals he's put forward over the last couple of weeks. Was there any new details that you heard that you think are meaningful for investors? Ariana Salvatore: So, the short version is nothing really new, and the reality is that a lot of housing policy in particular is actually out of the hands of the executive. And even if you do see congressional action here, it's likely to be marginal. A lot of housing policy is done at the state level, and even bipartisan efforts to address both the demand and the supply sides of the equation have faced some resistance in Congress. That doesn't mean they can't reemerge. But we would need to see a very large decline in the mortgage rate to get noticeable effects on economic indicators like GDP, inflation and employment. And in terms of what this means for the housing outlook, the programs talked about so far should push sales marginally higher but have little impact on our expectations for our home prices. Now it's important to note that the president didn't spend that much time of the speech talking about housing affordability proposals, as was telegraphed ahead of time. And since that, the head of the NEC Kevin Hassett has said they plan to announce more details on housing in the coming days. Michael Zezas: Got it. So, on the two pieces here that investors have really focused on, which are capping institutional ownership of single-family homes and potentially capping interest rates on credit cards, it sounded like the president talked about he would go to Congress for authorization on those things.Is that right? And if so, how plausible is it that Congress could actually deliver those authorities? Ariana Salvatore: So, here's where I think it's really critical to understand the role that Congress has to play in all of these policy initiatives. So, there are not only political constraints, but there are also procedural ones. If we were to see Republicans kind of push for this 10 percent cap, for example, that likely would have to go through the reconciliation process. And that process, as we know, comes with a number of limitations because something like a 10 percent cap wouldn't have much of an impact on the federal budget in terms of revenues or outlays. We think it's most likely not going to be permissible under that framework. So, understanding that the first filter here is Congress, and the second filter is these procedural limitations that exist in and of themselves is really important context for understanding the president's proposals on housing.Michael Zezas: So, is it fair to say the starting point is that we think Congress is unlikely to act on these things? And what would you have to see that might make you think differently? Ariana Salvatore: I think where we're looking for signals from Republican leadership in Congress – because as of right now, it's been our thinking that a second reconciliation bill ahead of the midterm elections is not feasible. It's too difficult politically, it takes a lot of time, but if you see enough of a push from the president, we do think that can start to become feasible. Again, we have to keep in mind these procedural limitations and where the rest of the party falls on these issues. But I think they're possible if the administration pushes hard enough for them.Michael Zezas: Got it. So, even though we don't think it's likely, we obviously want to prepare in case that happens. When it comes to housing, it seems like our team has said institutional ownership of single-family housing is quite low, 1 percent or less. And so, restrictions there wouldn't necessarily change the game on home prices. What about the 10 percent cap on credit card interests? What are the broader ramifications that our colleagues see? Ariana Salvatore: Yeah, so I'd say generally speaking, when it comes to consumer credit affordability policies, our strategists think that these could actually translate to a benefit for consumer ABS performance because they tend to be a tailwind for a consumer that's struggled with rising delinquencies and defaults post-COVID, right? However, there are some specific proposals like this cap on credit cards, and that's likely going to have a negative consequence because it's going to limit credit access for consumers, especially for those carrying a balance. So, probably a little bit counterintuitive to the overall affordability agenda that the administration's trying to go for. Michael Zezas: So, lots of interesting stuff coming out of the speech. Lots of things we have to track over the next few weeks and months. It certainly doesn't seem like it's going to be a boring year two of the Trump term for investors. Ariana Salvatore: Certainly not, and not for us either. Michael Zezas: Well, Ariana, thanks for finding the time to talk. Ariana Salvatore: Great speaking with you, Mike. Michael Zezas: And as a reminder, if you enjoy Thoughts on the Market, please take a moment to rate and review us wherever you listen. And share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or colleague today.
Consumers have heard of “dynamic pricing,” when the prices are based on demand within a single moment. But whether they know it or not, they're also contending with “surveillance pricing,” where companies use personalized consumer data to serve up personalized prices. Marketplace's Kristin Schwab reports.
Consumers have heard of “dynamic pricing,” when the prices are based on demand within a single moment. But whether they know it or not, they're also contending with “surveillance pricing,” where companies use personalized consumer data to serve up personalized prices. Marketplace's Kristin Schwab reports.
Yo Quiero Dinero: A Personal Finance Podcast For the Modern Latina
In this no-fluff, receipts-on-the-table episode, Jannese breaks down exactly how she made over $500K in 2025! While becoming a first-time mom and running multiple businesses.This is not “get rich quick” talk. This is a real, detailed income report covering 10+ revenue streams, the systems that keep money flowing on autopilot, and the mindset shifts required to scale without burnout. From blog ads and digital products to brand deals, memberships, real estate, and side hustles! Jannese shares what actually works, what's overrated, and why creators who rely only on social media are setting themselves up to struggle.If you're a content creator or entrepreneur this episode is your sign.WHAT WE GET INTO0:00 How Jannese made over $500K in 2025 as a new mom2:30 A decade-long journey in content creation & entrepreneurship4:45 Top-line revenue vs. taxable income (what creators need to know)7:30 The 10 income streams behind nearly $500K10:00 Why digital products & coaching earned the most12:15 How blog ads generated $147K in passive income14:40 Brand deals, creator rewards & platform pay myths17:00 Side hustles: Turo, savings interest & Zumba income19:30 Airbnb income, real estate & upgrading investments22:00 Systems, automation & evergreen income strategies24:30 Membership pricing & avoiding creator burnout27:00 Mentorship, scaling faster & a real 5x income story29:15 Declaring 2026 the Rich Bitch Year31:15 Final takeaways, free resources & next stepsKEY TAKEAWAYS
Send a Text Message. Please include your name and email so we can answer you! Please note, this does not subscribe you to our email list, it's just to answer if you have a questions for us. We finally have the first-ever FDA-approved oral GLP-1 for treating obesity, and it's a much bigger deal than the headlines suggest…In this episode, I'm joined by Joseph Zucchi, PA, a clinical supervisor at a weight management clinic who lives and breathes the data behind obesity care. We break down oral Wegovy in practical terms: the real weight loss data, how it compares with weekly injections, why it's different from Rybelsus, and who it's best suited for. We also cover cost, insurance disruptions, and what to realistically expect if you're considering a switch.If you're trying to make sense of your options in a fast-changing landscape, whether due to coverage changes, injection concerns, or simple confusion — this conversation helps break it all down using real data.ReferencesConnect with Joseph Zucchi, PATransition Medic Medical Weight LossLinkedinAudio Stamps01:42 – Meet Joseph Zucchi, PA, clinical supervisor at a comprehensive weight management clinic with an on-site food store.04:35 – What is oral Wegovy and how does it compare to injectable semaglutide in terms of efficacy and weight loss?07:21 – The reformulation that makes oral Wegovy different from Rybelsus and why absorption matters.10:22 – How to take oral Wegovy correctly: timing, dosing instructions, and common mistakes to avoid.12:02 – Who should consider oral Wegovy and who might be better off sticking with injections?13:45 – Side effects, dosing transitions, and what to expect when switching from injectable to oral.22:03 – The importance of specialized care: why working with a weight management expert improves outcomes.24:00 – Pricing, insurance coverage challenges, and accessibility of oral Wegovy in 2026.All of the information on this podcast is for general informational purposes only. Please talk to your physician and medical team about what is right for you. No medical advice is being on this podcast. If you live in Indiana or Illinois and want to work with doctor Matthea Rentea, you can find out more on www.RenteaClinic.com Not Sure Where to Start With the Podcast? I've Got You.Get my free Podcast Roadmap—a simple guide to help you find the episodes that matter most to your journey. Whether you're on GLP-1s, navigating plateaus, or just starting out, there's something here for you.Support the show
In this episode of Great Practice, Great Life, Steve Riley brings back financial behaviorist and pricing strategist Jacquette Timmons to tackle the question that makes even experienced attorneys hesitate: "What should I charge?" When your firm is busy, but margins feel thin, pricing often isn't "wrong," it's inconsistent because the logic underneath it is unclear. You're working hard, saying yes to work, and staying booked, but the income doesn't match the effort. Jacquette challenges the common advice to "charge what you're worth" and explains why tying fees to your identity creates stress, guilt, and second-guessing. Instead, she reframes pricing as a business decision: you are not your offer, and your fees should reflect the value and outcomes your services create not your personal worth. She also introduces a practical way to diagnose what's really happening in your firm: treat your services like an offer portfolio. When you look at each service as an asset, you can see which offers truly function as profit centers, which drain time and energy, and whether your marketing dollars are pushing the work that's least profitable. If you want law firm pricing that supports profit, future capacity and a sustainable life, this episode offers a clear, human-centered reset. In this episode, you will hear: Why "charge what you're worth" undermines pricing confidence Separating personal identity from business offers Viewing services as a portfolio instead of a menu Average revenue per case vs actual profit per case How pricing decisions shape marketing spend and client mix The financial, personal, and emotional layers of every pricing conversation Subscribe & Review Never miss an episode. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or YouTube. ⭐Like what you hear? A quick review helps more people find the show.⭐ If there's a topic you would like us to cover on an upcoming episode, please email us at steve.riley@atticusadvantage.com. Supporting Resources: Jacquette Timmons Episode 157: Money by Design, Not by Default with Jacquette Timmons Jacquette's Podcast: More Than Money with Jacquette Timmons LinkedIn Instagram Atticus Newsletter Limited-time offer! My Great Life Focus: Get a one-year supply (4 quarterly focusers) for $99.90 (50% off) with this link. Valid through January 31, 2026. Claim the offer → Curious about growing your own practice without burning out? Contact Atticus to see whether our law firm coaching can help you strengthen attorney success, refine your law firm business strategy, and build a practice that actually supports your life. This podcast for lawyers is part of our broader legal podcast library, offering practical insights on how to grow a law firm through stronger law firm leadership, law firm pricing and management, smarter marketing, intentional hiring, efficient operations, healthy law firm culture, and sustainable profitability, all while addressing law firm burnout and the realities of modern practice. You can also sign up for our newsletter to get practical insights on how to grow a law firm: from law firm leadership and management to marketing, hiring, operations, culture, and profitability, so you can build a Great Practice and a Great Life.
Ready to quit your 9–5 and become a full-time social media manager in 2026? This is your roadmap.In this episode, I'm giving you a full 12-month plan to go from beginner (or part-time side hustler) to booked-out and thriving in your SMM business.You'll learn exactly what to do in each quarter — from landing your first client without an Instagram following, to building a portfolio that converts, to finally setting income goals that make quitting your job realistic.We're not guessing. We're building. Month by month, phase by phase.Let's go full-time—together.Inside this episode:✔️ Why 2026 is the best time to go full-time✔️ The biggest mistake new social media managers make✔️ How to land your first 3–5 clients without a following✔️ Pricing, packaging, and portfolio tips✔️ When to build a website and brand shoot (not at the start!)✔️ How to reverse-engineer your income and make quitting realisticWatch or listen now to get the full plan and start strong this year.xx Ellen
In these hard times, everyone needs to save a little.The Treehouse Show is a Dallas based comedy podcast. Leave your worries outside and join Dan O'Malley, Trey Trenholm, Raj Sharma, and their guests for laughs about funny news, viral stories, and hilarious commentary.The Treehouse WebsiteGet MORE from the Treehouse Show on PatreonGet a FREE roof inspection from the best company in DFW:Cook DFW Roofing & Restoration CLICK HERE TO DONATE:The RMS Treehouse Listeners Foundation
Episode DescriptionAI is fundamentally changing how SaaS companies should think about pricing. When your software makes teams 70% more efficient, charging per seat means you're literally shrinking your own market. In this conversation, product management veteran Lee Bridges explains why seat-based pricing is a burning platform and what comes next.Lee, returning to the podcast after five years, recently led a pricing transformation project that forced him to confront an uncomfortable truth: AI-driven efficiency gains directly reduce the number of seats customers need. His solution? Outcome-based pricing that aligns incentives between vendors and customers while future-proofing against AI disruption.GuestLee Bridges - Cheif Product Officer at Inn-Flow, father, audio engineer, and vibe coder who recently completed a major pricing transformation project for a B2B SaaS company in the field service space.Key Topics CoveredThe Seat-Based Pricing ProblemHow AI efficiency reduces Total Addressable Market (TAM)The misalignment of incentives between vendors and customersInternal team conflicts created by per-seat modelsWhy "reducing a team from 10 to 3" destroys 70% of your revenue potentialOutcome-Based Pricing ExplainedThe difference between usage-based and outcome-based pricingHow to identify and price meaningful outcomesThe psychology of "you make money when your customer makes money"Avoiding the "nickel and diming" feeling of usage-based modelsReal-World ImplementationCase study: Field service sales teams (20 minutes to 90 seconds per quote)Tiered prepayment models with outcome "credits"Combining platform fees with outcome pricingWhen outcome-based pricing works (and when it doesn't)The Future of SaaS and AIWhy B2B SaaS isn't going anywhere despite AI hypeThe problem with expecting everyone to be a product managerConsistency, training, and the limits of LLM-generated experiencesVibe coding and no-code tools in practiceNotable Quotes"If you create efficiencies that make a process so efficient that some number of people will no longer be necessary... you reduce the number of potential seats. You reduce the Tam.""If I give you a dollar and you're going to give me $10 back, I'd be insane to not do that as many times as I can.""You're really expecting everyone on Earth to be a product manager. That's just not going to happen.""The most people don't have a high level of agency. They don't know what they want, when they want it, and they don't know how to describe it."Practical TakeawaysEvaluate your pricing model now - If you're charging per seat and building AI features, you're creating a strategic vulnerabilityStart with new products - Test outcome-based pricing with new offerings rather than risking existing revenueIdentify measurable outcomes tied to customer revenue - What metrics does your sales team already use when discussing ROI?Consider hybrid models - Platform fees plus outcome pricing can balance predictability with value alignmentThe complexity trade-off - Outcome-based pricing must remain simple enough to avoid litigation-inducing confusion
What actually separates high-performing landscape companies from everyone else isn't luck, leads, or even talent — it's how they handle sales, pricing, and client qualification.In this episode of The Landscaper's Guide Podcast, Jack Jostes sits down in the Ramblin Jackson studio with the three finalists for the 2025 Landscape Leader Of The Year Award. These owners flew in from across the country to participate in a live event, mastermind together, and share what they're learning as they grow mature, professional landscape companies. The conversation dives into real-world lessons around qualifying leads, saying no to bad-fit clients, pricing transparency, speed to lead, and protecting teams from burnout.If you're tired of price shoppers, wasted estimates, stressed crews, and sales that feel unpredictable, this episode offers practical insight from peers who are actively fixing those problems in their own businesses.You'll LearnWhy saying “no” to the wrong clients protects your team and profitabilityHow pricing guides and websites can pre-qualify better leadsWhat top landscape leaders do differently during sales conversationsHow faster follow-up dramatically improves close ratesWhy presenting proposals beats emailing them every timeConnect With Today's Guests
You are on slide 34 when the CFO's phone buzzes. She glances down. The VP to her left is nodding, but you can tell he checked out ten minutes ago. You know this pitch cold. You have rehearsed it. You built the deck. You covered every feature, every capability, every objection. And still, you are dying up there. You spent weeks on this presentation. None of it matters because everyone in that room has already sat through the same pitch from three other vendors this month. “Pitching sucks,” says Danny Fontaine, author of Pitch, on an episode of the Sales Gravy Podcast. “It sucks for the people doing it because we get so stressed out, and we spend weeks doing mountains of work. Meanwhile, there is a whole audience who has just as bad of a time as us because they have to sit through an hour of 100 PowerPoint slides and they're bored.” He is right. The audience suffers just as much. They sit through identical presentations, back to back, trying to remember which vendor said what. Both sides leave exhausted. No one wins. There is a better way. Effective sales pitch techniques don't rely on slides. They create engagement, tell stories, and turn monologues into conversations that actually move deals forward. Why Traditional Pitches Fail The standard pitch follows the same predictable pattern. Company overview. Capabilities. Case studies. Pricing. Questions at the end. Every competitor uses the same structure. That means you are asking your prospect to choose between nearly identical presentations. When everything looks the same, decision makers default to price or familiarity. Your carefully crafted message gets lost in the noise. You are treating the pitch like a presentation when it should be a conversation. You are trying to inform when you should be persuading. Experience Beats Information In 1979, a small advertising agency called Allen Brady and Marsh (ABM) competed against industry giant Saatchi & Saatchi for the British Rail account. ABM's founder, Peter Marsh, knew he couldn't win by playing it safe. When the British Rail executives arrived for the pitch, no one answered the door. They rang the buzzer three times before it finally opened, with no one behind it. The receptionist ignored them while filing her nails. The waiting area was filthy. After a while of being dismissed, the chairman stood up to leave. That is when Marsh burst through the doors and said, “Gentlemen, you have just experienced what your customers go through every single day. Shall we see what we can do to put it right?” ABM won the account. And it worked because the executives didn't just understand the problem. They felt it. Most sales pitches fail because they ask buyers to care before they are emotionally engaged. Information alone doesn't create urgency—experience does. Start With Them, Not You Pitches always start the same: ‘Thanks for your time. Here's our agenda. Let me tell you about our company.' Your prospect stops listening after the first sentence. If you want engagement, start with a question. Ask what matters to them. Ask what would make the time valuable. Ask what problem they are trying to solve. Before you show a single slide, say something like, “Before we start, what would make this conversation worth your time today?” Or, “What is the biggest challenge you are facing with this right now?” Those questions do three things immediately. They show respect. They give you intelligence. And they turn the pitch into a conversation from the first minute. This works even better over Zoom, where attention is fragile and distractions are everywhere. When you ask early questions, you pull people in instead of competing with their inbox. Stories Create Memory The most powerful stories aren't pulled from case studies. They come from real life. Every meaningful achievement involves obstacles. Those obstacles contain lessons. Those lessons connect directly to the challenges your prospects are facing. A story without relevance is just noise. A story with a clear lesson becomes a lever. A consultant once shared a story about buying a secondhand Lego set. She started building it, only to discover key pieces were missing. After hours of searching for replacements, she had to start over. When pitching a complex implementation, she said, “That taught me something. At the beginning of any project, we have to make sure all the pieces are in the bag.” That story worked because it made preparation tangible. It made risk visible. It connected emotionally and logically. If the story does not clearly support the point you are making, don't tell it. Ask Before You Lose Them Most salespeople cling to their script even when they can see the room drifting away. They are afraid of losing control, so they keep talking. That is how you lose the deal. Don't wait until the Q&A to ask questions. Sprinkle them throughout your pitch to keep your audience engaged and the conversation alive. Ask if you're hitting the mark, what they want to explore deeper, and what matters most to them. When you ask questions, you aren't giving up control. You are gaining it. The person asking the questions is always in control of the conversation. Emotion First, Logic Second Buyers like to believe they are rational. They are not. Emotion drives decisions. Logic justifies them. If you want someone to care, you have to make them feel something. Frustration. Relief. Possibility. Urgency. That is why the British Rail experience worked. Marsh didn't argue that customer service was bad. He made them experience it. The feeling came first. The logic followed. Once a buyer is emotionally engaged, they start looking for reasons to say yes. They look for data to support the decision they already want to make. This is why information-first pitches fall flat. You are asking people to care before you have given them a reason to. Create the emotional connection first. Then give them the facts. When the Room Goes Cold Even the best sales pitch techniques don't work every time. Sometimes the wrong people show up, there is a fire you didn't know about, or your message just doesn't land. When that happens, don't push harder. Pivot. Call it out. Ask what would be more valuable. Acknowledge the moment instead of pretending it is not happening. That level of honesty builds trust. It shows you are there to solve a problem, not deliver a performance. Why This Matters Your prospect didn't show up to be entertained or to be bored. When you give them an experience they didn't expect, you separate yourself from every competitor running the same tired deck. You become memorable. You become relevant. You become human. The pitch that feels risky is usually the one that wins. The personal story. The direct question. The willingness to have a real conversation. Because the alternative is being forgotten the moment you leave the room, no matter how many slides you showed. Want to take your pitch from forgettable to unforgettable? Download the FREE A.C.E.D. Buyer Style Playbook, which shows you exactly how to read your buyers, adapt your approach, and turn every conversation into a deal-closing opportunity.
Exhausted from the pressure to post on social media every single day? You're not alone, and more importantly, you don't have to. In this episode, I break down why relying solely on social media is holding your business back and reveal the marketing strategies that actually work to book clients consistently all year long.What you'll hear: -The Social Media Trap - Why algorithm anxiety and daily posting is draining your energy without filling your calendar -The Danger of All Your Eggs in One Basket - What happens when you rely only on platforms you don't control (and why that's risky for your business) -5 Marketing Methods That Work Better Than Daily Posts - Email marketing, SEO, local collaborations, community involvement, and past client referrals that book you solid Press play and let's dive in!YOUR DISCOUNT CODE for Fully Booked Method here. Grab what you need!
I'm Josh Kopel, a Michelin-awarded restaurateur and the creator of the Restaurant Scaling System. I've spent decades in the industry, building, scaling, and coaching restaurants to become more profitable and sustainable. On this show, I cut through the noise to give you real, actionable strategies that help independent restaurant owners run smarter, more successful businesses.In this episode, I talk about why the start of a new year feels so hard for so many restaurant owners. The problem is rarely effort. It is usually a lack of focus. I break down how unclear marketing, too many offers, and weak pricing strategies quietly kill profitability. We dig into how to simplify your model, narrow your services, and create calls to action that actually convert. If you want this year to feel more controlled and more profitable, this is where to start. TakeawaysEvaluate what really happened with your goals in 2025.Focus on proven strategies for real growth.More work does not equate to more money.Each service in a restaurant is a separate business.Narrow down to your hero service for marketing.Make one clear ask to your customers.Pricing should reflect the value provided.Perceived value can enhance customer experience.Avoid spreading yourself too thin with multiple offers.Reflect on where you can streamline operations for profit.Chapters00:00 New Year, New Strategies for Restaurant Growth01:46 Understanding the Restaurant Business Model05:05 The Importance of Focused Marketing08:24 Pricing for Profit and Perceived ValueIf you've got a marketing or profitability related question for me, email me directly at josh@joshkopel.com and include Office Hours in the subject line. If you'd like to scale the profitability of your restaurant in only 5 days, sign up for our FREE 5 Day Restaurant Profitability Challenge by visiting https://joshkopel.com.
Join Tony and April on the **Jeep Talk Show** flagship episode for a casual, fun catch-up chat after a three-week break! In this laid-back discussion, they dive into hot Jeep topics, share personal takes, and keep the laughs rolling. Key highlights include: - **Jeep's discontinuation of the 4xe plug-in hybrid models** (Wrangler and Grand Cherokee) for 2026 – why it doesn't bother April (old-school simplicity wins), range anxiety fears, charging challenges in rural areas, and how PHEVs sometimes traded capability for electrification quirks. - **Mud Terrain (MT) tires vs. lockers** – which upgrade to prioritize first? They agree: go tires first for better overall traction (rocks, mud, emergencies), then add lockers. April shares her approach of testing without lockers first to learn the Jeep's limits and reduce drivetrain stress. - **Ham radio vs. GMRS for emergency/off-road comms** – Tony questions if ham is phasing out with modern tech (satellites, internet), but April champions GMRS (easy, no test, family license, Midland's Jeep-friendly setups like the MXT series with integrated mics for tight dashes). Great for trails where cell service fails! - **Wrangler 392 pricing gripes** – recent price drops (like the 2026 Moab 392 coming in ~$20K cheaper), the thrill of that Hemi V8 roar, and why it's worth the premium (plus jealousy over friends' new ones). - **Off-road pet peeves** from the round table fireside chat crew: dropdown steps on rock sliders, loud concert-level speakers blasting music on trails, rear dual-exit exhausts getting mangled, oversized wheels, hitch sliders, and trail judgment. - Bonus: Tony plugs his new interview-focused show **Tony Muckleroy** (check it out on YouTube/Spotify for paranormal chats, preppers, and more wide-ranging topics). If you're a Jeep owner, off-roader, or just love the community vibe, this episode is full of relatable rants, practical advice, and good-natured banter. Hit play for trail stories, gear tips, and that classic Jeep passion!
In this episode of P-car Talk, hosts Mike Geisert and Aaron Johnson kick off with what's happening in the Porsche world this month. DRT Miami is coming up—if you're looking to escape the cold and see some incredible cars, this is your move. The following weekend brings the Rolex 24 at Daytona, including the historic 30-minute race on Saturday before the main event. What a way to start the year. The hosts dig into the elephant in the showroom: Porsche 911 pricing has climbed $40,000 in just five years. What's the strategy here? Base 911s now start around $140k, but buyers at that price point don't want a base model—so does this actually hurt overall sales? The only clear winner seems to be the used market, where older 911s suddenly look like bargains. Mike and Aaron discuss whether Porsche fatigue is real and what this means for enthusiasts versus casual high-end car buyers. Finally, the conversation shifts to depreciation kings—specifically the 2021 Taycan 4S. These stickered between $103k and $135k new and can now be found in the low $40s. Is this a steal for a commuter car if the battery checks out? The hosts weigh in. Thank you for your support! Kimchi Crew: Leslie, Chris, Ken, Aaron, Matthew, Sean, and Nik
Hyrox affiliation gives Rob Sowden-Taylor 25 to 40% of his gym's leads and creates long-term members who stick around for an average of 2.5 years.In this episode of “Run a Profitable Gym,” host Mike Warkentin sits down with Rob, owner of Ion Strength and Conditioning in Wales, to break down exactly how he uses Hyrox as a client-acquisition tool.Rob shares how he structures Hyrox simulations to maximize participation and revenue, running more than 120 people through them in just four hours. About half his event participants are existing members—boosting average revenue per member—and the other half are new people, providing fresh leads for his gym's ongoing services.Tune in to get the complete blueprint for implementing a Hyrox program that generates leads and boosts revenue. Read Rob's full Hyrox ROI breakdown, linked below.LinksRob's Hyrox ROI BreakdownGym Owners UnitedBook a Call1:06 - Rob's new Hyrox lead stats8:35 - Running Hyrox simulations12:09 - Where leads come from15:43 - Pricing the simulations24:16 - How to set up an event
This week on the Boxoffice podcast, co-hosts Daniel Loria, Rebecca Pahle, and Chad Kennerk cover the latest industry news and preview Sony's 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple. Then in the feature segment, Daniel speaks with Dine-In Cinema Summit founders Amy and Matt Mader of Venue Valet to preview this year's show happening February 2-6 in Austin, TX. Give us your feedback on our podcast by accessing this survey: https://forms.gle/CcuvaXCEpgPLQ6d18 What to Listen For00:00 Intro01:07 Weekend Box Office: Primate Overperforms02:41 Repertory Cinema & Theatrical Experiences06:18 Remembering Colleen Barstow08:27 Industry Leadership Updates10:34 ICTA North America Cinema Awards12:09 Blue Ribbon Awards Relaunch14:11 Box Office Outlook & Horror Trends16:22 28 Years Later Franchise Discussion21:46 Dine-In Cinema Summit Interview Begins23:18 Evolution of the Dine-In Cinema Summit26:41 Hospitality & Guest Experience in Cinemas29:44 “Let's Adapt” Programming & Diversification33:06 Alternative Content & FEC Strategies37:58 Food, Beverage & Kitchen Operations39:12 Battle of the Brands Cook-Off41:36 Operations, Pricing & Data Insights45:02 Summit Sponsors & Industry Support48:21 Why the Summit Matters Before CinemaCon50:37 Registration Details & Final Takeaways51:18 Closing Remarks & Subscribe CTA
Jordan and Jason link up in Tampa to recap a big week in the Green Industry. They share details on the upcoming Landscape Rodeo and Media Day at Ancient City Farmstead in St. Augustine, then break down what they learned at Tony Bass's Profit Builder seminar in Atlanta. From labor burden and overhead recovery to real equipment costs, sales goals, and culling unprofitable accounts, they explain how knowing your numbers changes everything for lawn, landscape, and tree service businesses. They also touch on branding, uniforms, and using video and tools like LiveSwitch to streamline sales and client communication. Important Links: www.superlawntoolkit.com www.superlawntruck.com
In this episode, Steve Fretzin and Mathew Kerbis discuss:AI's impact on billable workRecognizing the limits of hourly and flat feesUsing subscriptions to create stability and scalePositioning lawyers for long-term resilience Key Takeaways:AI is set to automate most billable legal tasks, collapsing the hours firms rely on for revenue. Continuing to bill time while effort shrinks creates ethical and financial strain. The profession must rethink pricing before the model breaks entirely.Hourly billing punishes efficiency and leaves clients unable to budget. Flat fees help, but often trigger resistance when AI makes work appear “too easy.” Both models strain under faster, AI-driven workflows.Subscription pricing offers predictable costs for clients and recurring value for firms. Changing needs are handled through tier shifts instead of constant renegotiation. This approach opens access to the vast unmet legal market.Solo and small firms can thrive by pairing subscriptions with purpose-built AI tools. Clear value mapping enables strong good-better-best service tiers. Sustainable growth requires leverage, focus, and letting go of doing everything alone. "The flat fee or fixed fee model… hasn't supplanted the billable hour… because of exactly this problem I call the under‑scoping and over‑scoping problem. You don't know if you're going to overscope or underscope the work when it's on a fixed‑fee model." — Mathew Kerbis Check out my new show, Be That Lawyer Coaches Corner, and get the strategies I use with my clients to win more business and love your career again. Ready to go from good to GOAT in your legal marketing game? Don't miss PIMCON—where the brightest minds in professional services gather to share what really works. Lock in your spot now: https://www.pimcon.org/ Thank you to our Sponsor!Rankings.io: https://rankings.io/ Ready to grow your law practice without selling or chasing? Book your free 30-minute strategy session now—let's make this your breakout year: https://fretzin.com/ About Mathew Kerbis: Mathew Kerbis is the founder of Subscription Attorney LLC and co-founder of practi.ai, where he helps lawyers move beyond the billable hour and build sustainable, client-friendly practices. A longtime advocate for subscription-based legal services, Mathew pioneered one of the earliest low-cost legal subscription models and has since expanded into fractional general counsel work for small businesses. He also hosts the Law Subscribed podcast, where he explores alternative fee models, legal innovation, and the future of law in an AI-driven world. Connect with Mathew Kerbis: Website: https://www.practi.ai/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerbisverse/ Connect with Steve Fretzin:LinkedIn: Steve FretzinTwitter: @stevefretzinInstagram: @fretzinsteveFacebook: Fretzin, Inc.Website: Fretzin.comEmail: Steve@Fretzin.comBook: Legal Business Development Isn't Rocket Science and more!YouTube: Steve FretzinCall Steve directly at 847-602-6911 Audio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it.
GoodRx (GDRX) CEO Wendy Barnes discusses the company's new partnership with Surescripts, which promises to revolutionize how consumers access prescription pricing. Looking ahead, GoodRx plans to expand its direct-to-employer offerings, providing cash pricing alongside traditional benefits to combat abandoned prescriptions and enhance efficiency in the healthcare system.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
Want to know how top agents actually sell for maximum value—in any market? In this episode, 40-year veteran Kim Winstone breaks down the fundamentals that still work: building a farm, pricing to the market (not your memories), cold-calling with value, and follow-up that turns neighbors into lifelong clients.What you'll learn-Farming that compounds: How to pick ~500 doors, become “the local” and stay top-of-mind-Cold-calling that isn't cringe: Lead with value, not scripts—what to say and when to shut up-Pricing strategy that sells: Event vs. market vs. aspirational pricing, and when to pivot (fast)-Listings to longevity: Why “list to last” still wins—and the launch checklist Kim uses on every home-Open houses that convert: Public + agent tours, and how to network for real referrals-Buyer curation: Previews, pitfalls (hills, trains, neighbors), and thinking around corners for clients-Downsizing with empathy: Navigating the emotional side while protecting net proceedsKim has 4 decades of consistent production in Caledon & GTA—referrals, repeat clients, and record results. Justin runs multi-asset operations across SW Ontario. It's field-tested strategy, not theory.
In this episode of the HVAC Know It All Business Edition Podcast, co-hosts Gary McCreadie and Furman Haynes discuss the business side of HVAC with veteran technician and entrepreneur Greg Crumpton, the Vice President of Service Logic. Having built and sold his own HVAC business, Greg shares invaluable advice for technicians considering the leap into business ownership. Starting as a technician, he rose through the ranks to service manager, general manager, and eventually founded and sold his own HVAC company. This episode focuses on financial literacy, cash flow management, invoicing, and the crucial mindset shifts needed for success as a contractor-turned-owner. Expect to Learn: - Why understanding finances is the cornerstone of starting an HVAC business. - How to price your services correctly and avoid undercharging. - The importance of cash flow, invoicing terms, and collection strategies. - Common mistakes new business owners make — and how to avoid them. - How automation and process improvements can streamline billing and improve profitability. Episode Breakdown with Timestamps: [00:00:00] – Introduction to the Episode [00:00:59] – Greg's Background and the Technician-to-Owner Journey [00:05:09] – Learning the Financial Side of Business [00:09:42] – Pricing, Margins, and Knowing Your Costs [00:13:03] – Invoicing Strategy and Payment Terms [00:17:18] – Automation and Delegation in Billing [00:19:02] – Setting a Competitive Hourly Rate [00:21:52] – Gross Margin vs. Net Profit (EBITDA) Follow Greg Crumpton on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crumptonskilledtrades/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregcrumpton/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gregcrumpton.airtight/ Company's Website: https://www.servicelogic.com/ Company's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/service-logic Follow Furman Haynes on: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/furmanhaynes/ WorkHero: https://www.linkedin.com/company/workherohvac/ Follow Gary McCreadie: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-mccreadie-38217a77/ Website: https://www.hvacknowitall.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/HVAC-Know-It-All-2/61569643061429/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hvacknowitall1/
What if the reason you're working nonstop but still not seeing real profit has nothing to do with mindset and everything to do with your numbers? In this episode, Ati sits down with operations and finance expert Michelle Ghassemi to break down the single most important metric every coach and service provider must track to build a sustainable, six- or seven-figure business — without burnout or guesswork.
This podcast is powered by Klean Freaks University.com — where real cleaners build real empires. From mop buckets to million-dollar systems, we teach you how to clean smarter, lead stronger, and scale faster.
Join hosts Paul Barron and Cherryh Cansler as they kick off 2026 with CAVA Co-Founder and CEO Brett Schulman for an in-depth conversation about navigating today's challenging restaurant landscape. Schulman reveals why CAVA eliminated digital tipping while paying workers top wages, how the brand has achieved 20% traffic growth while competitors struggle, and their strategy of keeping menu prices 50% lower than industry averages. Learn about CAVA's ambitious expansion plans for 2026, their human-centered approach to AI and automation, and why Mediterranean cuisine is perfectly positioned at the intersection of health, wellness, and bold flavors. This episode is packed with actionable insights for restaurant operators looking to thrive in an uncertain economy.#FastCasualNation #RestaurantIndustry #CAVARestaurantBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/fast-casual-nation--3598490/support.Get Your Podcast Now! Are you a hospitality or restaurant industry leader looking to amplify your voice and establish yourself as a thought leader? Look no further than SavorFM, the premier podcast platform designed exclusively for hospitality visionaries like you. Take the next step in your industry leadership journey – visit https://www.savor.fm/Capital & Advisory: Are you a fast-casual restaurant startup or a technology innovator in the food service industry? Don't miss out on the opportunity to tap into decades of expertise. Reach out to Savor Capital & Advisory now to explore how their seasoned professionals can propel your business forward. Discover if you're eligible to leverage our unparalleled knowledge in food service branding and technology and take your venture to new heights.Don't wait – amplify your voice or supercharge your startup's growth today with Savor's ecosystem of industry-leading platforms and advisory services. Visit https://www.savor.fm/capital-advisory
Existing home sales increased for the fourth months in a row, says Kevin Green, a positive signal for a struggling housing market. As for November's retail sales, he notes pressures in goods along with utility and gas prices accelerating higher. KG explains what it all means for the Fed's fight against inflation. On the commodities front, he talks about metals like gold, silver, and even tin hitting all time highs paired with crude oil's spike on geopolitical headlines. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
If the stories are to be believed, and the first casualty of war is truth and all that, Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro sent some 3.6 million ounces of gold - $16 billion in today's money - to Switzerland before 2017, when the EU brought sanctions against Venezuela.Switzerland last week froze his accounts and the accounts of some 36 others with close ties. We don't know how much money he had in them, or how many accounts there were, but the figure doing the rounds is $10 billion.It has also emerged that Tether has been freezing “wallets identified as being involved in the Venezuelan oil trade.” As much as 80% of Petroleos de Venezuela's oil revenue is believed to be transacted in tether. This could be a total figure in the billions too.We also know that Venezuela was mining bitcoin for many years - when the price was a lot lower - but we don't know what they did with the coins. Did they fall into Maduro's hands? Were they sold? Were they held?The number doing the rounds here that it owns 600,000 BTC (~$60 billion). That would put Venezuela up there with Michael Saylor and Strategy. It's three times the 198,000 coins the US government itself is said to own.There's a seed phrase I'd like to know. Where are the keys, I wonder?And where did the proceeds of Venezuela's enormous oil, gold and other natural resource exports end up, exactly? Only some of them we know. At this point we remind you that the Venezuelan currency itself - the bolivar - collapsed in hyperinflation and has little to no value. Beware national currencies, particularly under socialist regimes. They don't last.There are several things I take away from all of this.First, the US dollar - whether via SWIFT or stablecoin - remains the number one international currency of choice, even for America's enemies.Second, tether and other US dollar stablecoins might be convenient - you don't have to use banks - but Tether will do what the US government tells it to do, and if the government wants your assets frozen, Tether will freeze them.Stablecoins, then, have a central point of failure. If someone can freeze them, they are not sovereign. And just as the US froze Russian US dollar assets after its invasion of Ukraine, so can and will it freeze the stablecoin assets of its enemies too.What did that 2022 freezing of Russian assets trigger? The mother of all bull markets in gold, and then silver and miners.What will this freezing trigger? A bull market in bitcoin. Possibly. Likely.It's already creeping back up.While the US does its geo-political, strategic, critical minerals thing, quaint old Western Europe is sinking deeper into higher taxes and - I'm sure they're coming eventually - capital controls. In fact, capital controls already exist in effect, banks are so heavily regulated and limiting of what you can send and to whom.The value of permissionless, international money just went up.You need to own money that they can't touch, whether by seizure or debasement.Meanwhile …Gold and silver continue to go bananas - the latter especially.So many roads lead to gold at the moment, it's hard to see when this stops.The inevitable debasement of national currencies off the back of uncontrollable government spending. Gold. Dedollarisation. Gold. Increasing geo-political uncertainty - Iran, Venezuela. Gold. Reshoring of US industry - highly inflationary. Gold. Revaluation of US gold holdings. Gold. Looming crisis from Japan as yields spike. Gold. China's ambitions for its currency and trade. Gold. Triffin's dilemma. Gold. AI putting everyone out of work leading to more money printing. Gold. Declining competence of and as a result faith in institutions worldwide. Gold.The dollar has now fallen to a 40% share of global central bank reserves, while gold is now at 30% on the back of its higher price and central bank accumulation. (Note currency and reserves are not the same).We are in a major capital rotational event the like of which occurs only every few decades.Typical portfolios are still underweight gold.If you live in a Third World Country such as the UK, I urge you to own gold or silver. The pound is going to be further devalued. The bullion dealer I recommend is The Pure Gold Company. Pricing is competitive, quality of service is high. They deliver to the UK, US, Canada and Europe or you can store your gold with them. More here.Own bothAs regular readers will know, I advocate owning both bitcoin and gold. The two assets have many similarities in that they are non-government, independent money. But the fundamental difference is that one is physical and one is digital.Both have their uses, and I have little patience with this notion that one must choose one or the other.In that regard, as with many others, my worldview is aligned with that of Charlie Morris (whose newsletters I urge you to subscribe to. There are lots of free options, including Atlas Pulse, which I love). Remember many years ago Charlie was calling for $7,000 gold by the end of this decade and many thought he was dotty. His call is looking perfectly sensible now, which it was - and which he is. Charlie previously managed a multi-billion-dollar fund for HSBC, before going solo. Aside from his newsletter, one his main endeavours has been BOLD, and he has been trying to get it listed for years. But the UK's Financial Conduct Authority is retarded.BOLD is a fund you can buy through a broker which is 75% gold and 25% bitcoin - all properly audited and backed, of course, with institutional-grade custody.Over the past five years, BOLD has returned 186%, while bitcoin has returned 202%, gold 128%, and equities 77%. The average return of bitcoin and gold together was 165%, yet BOLD was 21% ahead. This is because every month Charlie rebalances the portfolio, effectively buying more of whichever is the weaker asset to retain that 75:25 ratio. This act of rebalancing both strips out the volatility and increases the gains.Since Charlie first conceived of it in 2017, over pretty much any timeframe, BOLD (in blue) has beaten everything.Since its listing in Europe in 2022 BOLD has returned 123% since launch (in GBP to end 2025 including fees) compared to 111% for bitcoin and 113% for gold.It would have been nice to have been able to enjoy these gains in the UK. Thank goodness the FCA has protected us from them.Not for much longer.I was delighted to be at the London Stock Exchange yesterday to see the listing of this product which delivers “bitcoin-like returns with the lesser volatility of gold.”Congratulations, Charlie, for finally getting this listed. I wish you every success.Now we can actually invest.Obviously, if gold AND bitcoin both turn down, BOLD will suffer. But this is a classic buy-and-forget product, perfect for the Dolce Far Niente portfolio. You can own it in your pension, your ISA and it should become a mainstay of any portfolio.The 21Shares Bitcoin Gold ETP, BOLD, has the ticker LSE:BOLD.I am a buyer.PS some brokers such as AJ Bellend have only made this product available to pro investors. The broker I use is Interactive Investor, who are pretty good about getting these kinds of things live. If you open an account via this link you get a year's free. I am just on the phone to them now to get this listed.Disclaimer:The Flying Frisby is not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) or any other regulatory body as a financial advisor. Therefore, any information provided in this newsletter does not constitute regulated financial advice. It is solely an expression of opinion. Please conduct your own due diligence and consult with a financial advisor, if you have any doubts. Remember, markets can both rise and fall, especially in the case of small and mid-cap stocks. I am not aware of your individual financial circumstances, so only invest money that you can afford to lose. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.theflyingfrisby.com/subscribe
"The value you get out of Zucca and all the things it can do is far cheaper than what it would take to hire another person or hire an external consultant to do that work." —Karen Huh Building a CPG product should not feel like juggling spreadsheets at midnight. Teams lose time, money, and clarity when formulas, costs, and decisions are scattered across multiple locations. This conversation confronts that reality head-on and addresses why speed and focus are crucial in the food, beverage, and supplement industries right now. Karen Huh shares how two decades in CPG at companies shaped her view of broken product development workflows. That experience led her to build Zucca, an AI-powered operating system designed to unify how CPG teams ideate, formulate, cost, and scale products. Listen to hear how modern CPG teams are using AI to work smarter and move faster. Building an AI-powered operating system for CPG product development Why product launches break down as brands grow How AI supports formulation, costing, and iteration Reducing time to scale-ready formulas Collaboration and single source of truth for CPG teams Using AI as a teammate, not a replacement What founders misunderstand about AI and speed The future of AI in food and beverage innovation Meet Karen: Karen Huh is the co-founder and CEO of Zucca, an innovative operating system for product development in the consumer packaged goods (CPG) industry, powered by AI. With over 20 years of experience, Karen has held leadership roles at Starbucks and numerous venture-backed brands, building a strong track record in product innovation and business development. Drawing on her in-depth knowledge of CPG workflows, she is dedicated to streamlining and unifying product development processes through advanced technology. Karen leads a diverse, expert-driven team at Zucca, helping brands of all sizes create, manage, and scale products more efficiently. Website LinkedIn Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 02:12 What Inspired Zucca 05:32 Early Exposure to AI 11:24 Challenges and Surprises in AI Development 16:30 Zucca's Unique Features and Benefits 19:02 User Experience and Implementation 24:59 Impact on CPG Companies 28:12 Customer Success Stories 30:47 Accessibility and Pricing
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This week's Double Edge Monday update is a longer one — but it covers everything you need right now:✅ Programming focus for the next ~5 weeks (clean & jerk + bar muscle-ups) ✅ HYROX Vegas crew update + what we learned from our full simulation ✅ How we're training HYROX at Double Edge (CrossFit foundation + extra running) ✅ Open gym policy reminder (who it's for and why we don't do “open gym only”) ✅ January coaching reminder: book time with me for nutrition, goals, macros, or injury modifications ✅ Alcohol: understanding trade-offs + how it impacts sleep, stress, and long-term health ✅ Steps goal for 2026: how to “fill the gaps” with small daily walks ✅ Committed Club: possible new recognition tier for 16–20 sessions/month ✅ Recovery Room: sauna vs cold plunge — what actually matters and how to use them smart ✅ February pricing/admin updates (new members only — current members unchanged)If you're a Double Edge member and want to chat 1:1, my calendar is pinned in the WhatsApp group.Love you guys. Peace.Follow us on Instagram here! https://www.instagram.com/doubleedgefitness/
A new set of rules is officially here. In this episode of Upmarket Pod, Reed and Mark break down California's Altered Image Law AB 723 and what it means for real estate media. The law introduces new disclosure requirements around altered listing photos that directly impact how agents, photographers, and media companies market properties. They cover what qualifies as an altered image, when disclosures are required, and how to stay compliant while maintaining high quality marketing.Don't worry, they still end the show with their Action Items... things that any listener can do right now to help lay the foundation for scaling their Real Estate Media Business.Follow the pod on Instagram at @upmarketpod.The Presenting Sponsor of Upmarket is Fotello, an AI media platform built to snap, upload, and deliver. Pricing starts at $12 per listing, with human revisions available within six hours. Go to fotello.co and use code UPMARKET25 to get 25 free listings added to your account (a $500 value).Another amazing sponsor is iGUIDE, which helps real estate professionals capture spaces fast and with industry-leading accuracy. Their PLANIX Pro camera delivers trusted measurements, with no subscriptions and priced per project. Options like iGUIDE Instant provide a clean 3D tour and interactive floor plan in minutes, starting at $7.99. Learn more at goiguide.com or @go_iguide.Another sponsor is Aryeo, the best place to help grow and manage your Real Estate Media business. Use the code UPMARKET at aryeo.com to get 15 free bonus listings with any new account.Another amazing sponsor of Upmarket is SecondFloor, the fastest way to create a finished floor plan. It's so fast that you can deliver the finished floor plan while you are still on-site! Not only that, but you can get UNLIMITED floor plans for one low monthly fee. We love SecondFloor and you can go to secondfloorapp.com/upmarket and any new subscriber will get a one-month free trial.Our Action Items are sponsored by PixlCRM, where you can scale your real estate photography business through automation. It's an all-in-one business and marketing platform that complements your current delivery app. If you go to pixlcrm.com/upmarket you can get a 30-day risk-free trial!
Welcome to this episode of HALO Talks, where host Pete Moore sits down with Bryce Berry, a New York native whose career led him from Westchester County to the mountains of Salt Lake City, and eventually to building a powerhouse presence in the Gold's Gym franchise network. Bryce shares his entrepreneurial path, starting with the unexpected lessons learned from running Dairy Queen stores, before moving into the health club industry and launching some of the largest and most successful Gold's Gym locations in Colorado, Wyoming, and Washington. From the intricacies of site selection and gym operations to adapting to changing market dynamics and member expectations, Bryce reveals how he's created "rainmaker" clubs by offering standout amenities like expansive weightlifting and cardio areas, basketball courts, racquetball, pickleball, and innovative tanning and recovery services. He digs into the evolving branding landscape of fitness franchises, the role of pricing strategy, and why the Gold's Gym name still carries significant weight in local communities. Listen now to hear Bryce's insights on building thriving gyms, the impact of market trends on business decisions, and how his commitment to quality and member experience is shaping the future of fitness for the next generation of club-goers. Key themes discussed Gold's Gym franchise growth and operations. Site selection strategies for gym locations. Importance of brand recognition in fitness industry. Pricing models and market positioning for gyms. Community amenities: Basketball, pickleball, saunas, recovery. Private equity partnerships and business structure. Adapting gym facilities to trends in strength and cardio equipment. A Few Key Takeaways: 1.Strategic Growth and Site Selection: Bryce talks about his career path from Westchester County to building a network of Gold's Gyms, detailing how he strategically drew a 300-mile radius around his home and used his knowledge from previous business ventures (like a book bindery) to select prime gym locations. His hands-on, boots-on-the-ground approach to site selection set the foundation for successful club launches. 2. Gold's Gym Brand Equity: Bryce highlights the enduring power of the Gold's Gym brand. Despite new competitors and rebranded gyms popping up (such as VASA, EoS, and Fitness Connection), he argues that Gold's still has strong recognition and credibility with consumers. People know Gold's Gym, which translates into excitement, loyalty, and ongoing business success. 3. Mid-Range Pricing Wins: Berry defends the decision to position his clubs in the mid-price range, emphasizing that this "middle" is where the majority of the market is. Instead of chasing ultra-low-cost volume or high-end exclusivity, his strategy is to deliver great value for a reasonable price, which has continually proven successful in the communities he serves. 4. Amenity-Rich, Community-Focused Clubs: The Gold's Gym facilities in Colorado, Wyoming, and Washington are designed as urban or suburban "country clubs" with oversized footprints (some over 50,000 sq ft). Bryce invests heavily in amenities like basketball courts, racquetball, pickleball nights, dry saunas, and top-of-the-line equipment to create a vibrant community feel and cater to a broad clientele. 5. Innovation and Adaptation for Younger Members: Bryce discusses a current trend he's seeing with younger members (especially ages 18–40) favoring strength and cardio equipment, recovery spaces, and high-quality gear such as the Matrix treadmill. He's focused on adapting his clubs to these preferences, particularly with recovery rooms, oversized saunas, and best-in-class equipment—which has helped him attract and retain this growing demographic. Resources: Gold's Gym: https://www.goldsgym.com Integrity Square: https://www.integritysq.com Prospect Wizard: https://www.theprospectwizard.com Promotion Vault: https://www.promotionvault.com HigherDose: https://www.higherdose.com
Charles Miller of Platoon joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss “good” taste, how you get it, why you might want it, and what to do when your clients don't have it. LinksCharles' personal site » https://www.charlesmiller.com/Charles' portfolio site » https://www.platoon.studio/Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:11) - Defining Taste (00:19) - Charles Miller's Background (00:59) - The Concept of Informed Opinion (02:20) - Developing Taste Over Time (05:50) - Taste in Different Domains (08:44) - Taste and Business Decisions (16:42) - Client Relationships and Taste (21:30) - Understanding Client Needs (24:00) - The Role of Taste in Design (25:28) - The Importance of Practice (27:09) - Releasing Your Work to the World (27:52) - The Role of Taste Makers (30:11) - Balancing Client Expectations and Creative Vision (34:36) - The Genius of Simplifying Complex Ideas (40:07) - Final Thoughts and Wrap Up ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!
Hello, hello — and welcome back to Greedy Bitch, the podcast for groomers who are done apologizing for wanting more. I'm your host, River Lee — founder of The Savvy Groomer — and if this is your first time here, let me just say: welcome. You're in the right place if you love grooming… but you're tired of being exhausted, underpaid, and quietly resentful about it. Now listen — we're kicking off January with our New Year, New Money theme. So today felt like the perfect time to talk about something groomers have a LOT of feelings about… ✨ Tips. Cash tips. Card tips. The “oh my god they tipped me $40 I love them forever” tips. The “why didn't they tip me at all?” spiral. The guilt. The gratitude. The confusion. And before we go any further, let me say this clearly:
I share the full behind-the-scenes of what was really going on: the confidence knock, the temptation to start again with something shiny and new, and the uncomfortable realisation that the offer wasn't broken, it just wasn't finished yet. This is a very honest look at what it actually takes to develop an offer to a standard you can fully back, rather than abandoning it the moment it feels hard. You'll hear exactly what I tweaked over several months—from curriculum and messaging, to pricing strategy, delivery, and the full program experience—and why those changes mattered. I talk about why branding alone won't save an offer, why beta pricing has a role, and why building something world-class requires time, focus, and a willingness to go into the trenches. If you've been side-eyeing an offer and thinking about binning it for 2026, let this be your sign to pause and consider what it might become with the right tweaks.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhy I almost removed Dreamium from my rebrand entirelyThe difference between a bad offer and an unfinished oneWhat I changed across curriculum, messaging, pricing, and deliveryWhy student experience was the biggest turning pointHow consistency and talking about one offer for 60+ days changed everything"The offers that become signature are the ones you're brave enough to refine instead of replace."You're invited to join me on 22nd January at 1pm GMT for a FREE workshop. Save your seat here: https://ceelslockley.co/flops-to-floorfillers Step into my festival world...
Dave & Carla will be speaking at Curbside.2026 about Pricing for Profit, a deep dive into the art of pickup and delivery pricing. Revenue does not always equal profit. To scale your profit, you need to know YOUR numbers. Dave & Carla discuss creating the Laundromat Millionaire platform and using the 'Abundance Mindset' to help other people grow their respective businesses.Get your Curbside.2206 Wash Dry Fold & Pickup and Delivery Conference tickets here: https://www.curbsidelaundries.com/conference/Laundromat Millioniare Websites:www.queencitylaundry.comwww.laundromatmillionaire.comwww.laundroboostmarketing.comLaundromat Millionaire Social media:https://www.facebook.com/laundromatmillionairehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/dave-laundromat-millionaire-menz/https://www.instagram.com/laundromatmillionaire/https://x.com/DaveLMMenzhttps://www.youtube.com/@LaundromatMillionaireTable of Contents0:00 Pricing For Profits2:00 Knowing Your Numbers4:20 Curbside.2026 Laundry Pickup Conference5:00 Pricing WDF Right!6:20 Creating the Laundromat Millionaire Platform8:30 Laundry Industry Trailblazers9:10 Abundance Mindset11:00 David vs Goliath12:00 Growing Your Brand13:00 Helping Other PeopleClick here to see a demonstration of the Curbside Wash and Fold & Pickup and Delivery solution Follow Curbside Laundries on TwitterJoin the Laundromat Community on X
Nintendo president Shuntaro Furukawa rarely speaks outside of investor briefings, but a new interview offers a rare look at how Nintendo is thinking about its future. Today, we break down Furukawa's comments on Switch 2 supply, pricing concerns, software plans beyond 2026, and Nintendo's long term strategy for games, movies, and brand expansion. From accessibility and developer freedom to Mario, Zelda, and even the idea of anime, this episode gives us one of the clearest pictures yet of where Nintendo is headed next.For ad-free episodes, subscribe here. https://anchor.fm/nintendo-power-cast/subscribeConnect with meMy Nintendo Switch Recommendations: http://n64josh.com/amazonDiscord: http://n64josh.com/discord Twitch: https://twitch.com/n64josh Tiktok: https://tiktok.com/n64josh Twitter: https://twitter.com/n64josh
Sneaker History Podcast - Sneakers, Sneaker Culture and the Business of Footwear
Nike dropped the Mind 001 and the internet had opinions. One of us already bought it and tried it, so we're debating this with actual experience instead of just hot takes. Is this innovation or gimmick? Is Nike breaking new ground or desperately trying to make us care about something... anything? What does this release signal about their bigger strategy? Rohit, Robbie, and Nick argue it out.For Deep Dives on Sneaker Lore, Business Analysis, and Industry Insider Insight: https://www.thesneakernewsletter.comGet Your Nike Mind: https://fave.co/4jD3HcsChapters00:00 The Buzz Around Nike's New Releases03:08 Consumer Reactions and Market Trends06:04 The Evolution of Nike's Technology09:06 Gamification and User Engagement11:55 The Future of Footwear Technology15:01 Personal Experiences with New Products17:59 The Role of Marketing in Consumer Perception20:58 Reflections on Mental Health and Footwear24:00 The Aesthetics of New Nike Models26:58 Conclusions and Final Thoughts34:24 The Evolution of Sneaker Technology37:14 Pricing and Consumer Perception40:22 Generational Trends in Footwear43:02 Market Timing and Economic Factors51:00 The Future of Sneaker CultureSUPPORT THE SHOW:Donate Through Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/sneakerhistoryBuy Me A Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/nickengvallEarly Access, Exclusive Videos, and Content On Patreon: https://patreon.com/sneakerhistoryIf you are interested in advertising to our audience, contact us: podcast@sneakerhistory.comCHECK OUT OUR OTHER SHOWS:For the Formula 1 Fans - Exhaust Notes: https://exhaustnotes.fmFor the Fitted Hat Fans - Crown and Stitch: https://crownandstitch.comFor the Cars & Sneakers Fans - Cars & Kicks: https://carsxkicks.comFor the Creators & Creatives - Outside The Box: https://podcasts.apple.com/id/podcast/outside-the-box-convos-with-creators/id1050172106[Links contain affiliate links; we may receive a small commission if you purchase after clicking a link. A great way to support the pod!]—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––—––––Our podcast is proudly...Recorded on Riverside: http://www.riverside.fm/?via=sneakerhistoryHosted & Distributed By Captivate: https://bit.ly/3j2muPbGET IN TOUCH:Robbie - robbie@sneakerhistory.comMike - mike@sneakerhistory.comRohit - rohit@sneakerhistory.comNick - nick@sneakerhistory.comDisclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this program are those of the speakers and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of any entities they represent.This podcast uses the following third-party services for analysis: Spotify Ad Analytics - https://www.spotify.com/us/legal/ad-analytics-privacy-policy/
In this episIn this episode, I'm tackling one of the questions I get asked all the time by course creators, membership owners, and coaches: How do I know if my offer is priced correctly?Pricing isn't just about picking a number that feels good—it's about making sure your price supports your entire business, your audience, and the way you want people to move through your offers. I walk you through five key considerations to help you evaluate whether your pricing actually makes sense, not just for one offer, but for your full ecosystem.We talk about why pricing decisions should never be made in isolation, how to think about different customer levels, and why an Ascension model can create more ease, clarity, and sustainability in your business. I also share how intentional pricing can help your customers confidently move from one offer to the next—without confusion or resistance.This episode is strategic, grounded, and designed to help you feel more confident setting prices that serve both you and your audience.ode, I'm tackling one of the questions I get asked all the time by course creators, membership owners, and coaches: How do I know if my offer is priced correctly?Pricing isn't just about picking a number that feels good—it's about making sure your price supports your entire business, your audience, and the way you want people to move through your offers. I walk you through five key considerations to help you evaluate whether your pricing actually makes sense, not just for one offer, but for your full ecosystem.We talk about why pricing decisions should never be made in isolation, how to think about different customer levels, and why an Ascension model can create more ease, clarity, and sustainability in your business. I also share how intentional pricing can help your customers confidently move from one offer to the next—without confusion or resistance.This episode is strategic, grounded, and designed to help you feel more confident setting prices that serve both you and your audience.3 Key Takeaways:Pricing should support your entire offer suiteIf I price one offer without considering the rest of my ecosystem, I create confusion and friction. My pricing needs to make sense in relation to everything else I sell.Different levels of customers need different pricingNot everyone is ready for the same level of support or investment. When I price with awareness of beginner, intermediate, and advanced buyers, I serve my audience better—and sell more effectively.An Ascension model creates clarity and momentumWhen my pricing helps people naturally move from one offer to the next, I'm not just making sales—I'm guiding transformation. Clear pathways build trust and long-term growth.LINKS TO RESOURCES MENTIONED IN TODAY'S EPISODEConnect with Teresa on
Why Successful Interior Designers Choose a Word for the Year: How Interior Design Firm Owners Use Focus, Clarity, and Authority to Lead Better Businesses As an interior design firm owner, clarity and confidence matter more than motivation. In this episode of Design Business Freedom, Melissa Galt, interior designer, firm principal, and business coach with 3 decades of experience, explains why choosing a word for the year is not a mindset exercise, but a powerful leadership tool for interior designers running real businesses. When designers reach the principal seat, they're no longer just designing, they're leading teams, setting boundaries, pricing services, managing growth, and making decisions that affect revenue, culture, and capacity. Motivation isn't the problem. Focus is. A single, intentional word creates a stabilizing center for leadership. It reduces decision fatigue, strengthens boundaries, and helps interior designers respond with clarity instead of reacting under pressure. In this episode, Melissa walks through how your word becomes a filter for: (2:51) Emotional regulation and energy protection (7:37) Client decisions and scope boundaries (8:19) Pricing confidence and profitability (9:15) Leadership presence with your team (11:54) Long-term clarity as your firm grows This conversation is especially valuable for established interior designers and design firm principals generating more than $200K+ annually who are navigating complexity, responsibility, and the invisible weight of leadership. You don't need more goals. You need a clearer way to lead. Choose the word that reflects the designer - and the leader - you are becoming, and allow it to guide your decisions with steadiness, confidence, and far less resistance. Connect with Melissa Instagram Facebook Linkedin Website
Slowing U.S. job growth alongside rising labor productivity highlights how organizations are replacing hiring with automation and AI-driven systems. Government labor data shows job growth in 2025 fell to roughly 584,000 positions, while productivity rose nearly five percent in the third quarter, allowing output to increase without additional staff. According to CompTIA, demand for AI-related skills rose more than 100 percent year over year, even as overall tech employment declined. For MSPs, this signals a shift where customers rely less on internal teams and more on external providers to absorb operational responsibility when automated systems fail.Survey data from TechAisle indicates that small and midmarket businesses are redirecting technology spending away from basic digitization toward autonomous, outcome-driven systems. The research, based on responses from 5,500 firms, shows profitable growth and cost control as top priorities for 2026, with increased adoption of generative AI, agentic automation, and managed security services. At the same time, rising RAM and storage prices—driven by AI data center demand, according to TrendForce—are delaying PC refresh cycles and pushing workloads into cloud environments, changing where performance, security, and cost risks surface.Vendor signals remain mixed. Kaseya reported layoffs affecting five percent of its workforce, following earlier reductions, while TD Synnex and Samsung reported strong revenue growth tied to AI infrastructure, memory, and server demand. Distributors cite continued hardware refresh activity, yet repeated workforce cuts at vendors suggest internal cost corrections rather than demand collapse. For MSPs, this combination increases environmental complexity, with longer device lifecycles, higher component costs, and more heterogeneous platforms to support.Operational AI announcements further extend decision-making authority into automated systems. New healthcare, printing, and service desk tools embed AI into intake, routing, authorization, and workflow execution, often acting before human review. For MSPs and IT service providers, the central issue is not efficiency gains but accountability: when AI-driven processes misroute work, generate compliance errors, or escalate incidents incorrectly, responsibility frequently defaults to the operator. The episode underscores the need for clearer governance, pricing, and contractual boundaries as AI assumes functional authority inside managed environments. Four things to know today 00:00 Slowing Job Growth, Rising Productivity, and AI Adoption Shift Operational Responsibility to Providers05:26 TechAisle Data Shows SMB Focus Moving From Digitization to Autonomous, Outcome-Driven Systems09:19 Kaseya Cuts Staff as Distributors and Chipmakers Report Strong AI-Driven Demand14:27 Operational AI Advances as Vendors Embed Automation Into Intake, Routing, and Authorization This is the Business of Tech. Supported by: https://cometbackup.com/?utm_source=mspradio&utm_medium=podcast&utm_campaign=sponsorship
Welcome back to #WithSONAR! This week, we're diving into Batch Rate Intelligence, SONAR's multi-lane pricing tool designed to support short-term pricing decisions and RFP strategy with downloadable, market-aligned rate intelligence. In this session, you'll learn how to: -Access Batch Rate Intelligence within SONAR applications -Upload lanes using the downloadable template or work directly in the UI -View real-time broker-to-carrier spot rates updated daily -Compare spot and contract rates (where available) to evaluate margin and spread -Understand lane scores to gauge capacity difficulty and pricing leverage -Monitor daily rejection rates to anticipate spot rate pressure -Export full datasets for Excel-based RFP analysis and customization Batch Rate Intelligence is an add-on within SONAR and is especially valuable as we head into RFP season, helping ensure your pricing reflects real-time market conditions.
Today's guest is Thomas Holmes, Chief Actuary for North America at Akur8. Holmes focuses on how actuarial teams can modernize pricing and reserving with automation and AI while maintaining governance and actuarial soundness. Thomas joins Emerj Editorial Director Matthew DeMello to discuss why pricing and reserving modernization is hard to execute in practice, and how insurers can adopt AI with the governance and explainability actuarial teams require. The conversation also covers starting with a clear problem statement, avoiding generic "bolt-on" AI approaches, and targeting small wins that deliver measurable workflow and cycle-time improvements. Want to share your AI adoption story with executive peers? Click emerj.com/expert2 for more information and to be a potential future guest on the 'AI in Business' podcast. This episode is sponsored by Akur8. Learn how brands work with Emerj and other Emerj Media options at emerj.com/ad1.
Welcome to episode 225 of Sports Management Podcast. Today's guest is Vance Morris, and in this episode we will uncover what sports teams can learn from Disney when it comes to service and fan experience. We spoke about: How Vance went from a security guard at a birth control factory to working for Disney Why he was a lousy employee Why his business charges 40% more than its competitors Taking the leap to starting his own business, and his wife getting sick 3 days later And much more! SPONSOR: Listeners of the Sports Management Podcast get an exclusive 20% off on SportsPro+ with the code SMPOD20. All you need to do is head to sportspro.com/membership and start exploring today. Time stamps: 00:00 Intro: 02:21 From factory security guard to Disney 03:32 Experience design in boring moments 05:50 Engaging fans on non-game days 07:25 Linertainment explained 08:44 What teams can do between purchase & game day 11:18 Reaching younger fans with physical mail 13:01 On-stage vs off-stage mindset 15:26 Attention to detail & perceived value 17:30 Tellable moments & word of mouth 19:44 Systems create freedom 22:34 Cost of keeping vs acquiring fans 24:27 Why he charges 40% more 28:57 "The bar is set so low" 31:23 Service standards disconnect 33:29 Hiring for service mindset 38:19 Major career setback & resilience 40:00 Outro Follow Sports Management Podcast on social media Instagram Twitter LinkedIn YouTube www.sportsmanagementpodcast.com
Want to be on the show? Fill out this form, and we'll be in contact with you real soon!https://dclpodcast.com/want-to-be-on-the-show/Support our show via Patreon:http://www.patreon.com/dclpodcastUse Christy's Travel Services:https://dclpodcast.com/book-with-christy/Follow the DCL Podcast via:http://www.facebook.com/dclpodcasthttp://www.instagram.com/dcl_podcastFollow Lake at:https://www.instagram.com/mouse.genhttps://www.youtube.com/@MouseGenFollow Christy at:http://www.packyourpixiedust.comhttps://www.instagram.com/packyourpixiedust
Keywords entrepreneurship, business, gamification, creative consulting, 3D printing, storytelling, Twitch, consulting, design, small business, entrepreneurship, business planning, emotional investment, pricing strategies, support network, business lessons, creative entrepreneurs, business mistakes, value assessment, gamification Summary In this episode of The Accidental Entrepreneur, host Mitch Beinhaker speaks with Paul Pape, a creative entrepreneur who transitioned from theater to business. Paul shares his journey of inventing pop-out furniture, building a brand known as 'Santa for Nerds', and utilizing platforms like Twitch to connect with other creatives. He discusses the importance of gamifying business processes to make them more accessible and engaging for creative individuals. Paul also shares insights from his consulting work with a struggling dragon sculpture company, emphasizing the need for storytelling in business and the importance of understanding one's passion. In this conversation, Paul Pape and Mitch Beinhaker discuss the emotional aspects of entrepreneurship, the importance of having a solid business plan, and the lessons learned from real-life business experiences. They emphasize the need for creative entrepreneurs to value their worth and develop effective pricing strategies while also highlighting the significance of building a supportive network to achieve success. The discussion is rich with anecdotes and practical advice for navigating the challenges of running a business. Takeaways Paul Pape transitioned from theater to entrepreneurship. He invented pop-out furniture for architects and designers. Paul's brand is known as 'Santa for Nerds'. He utilized Twitch to connect with creatives and share knowledge. Gamifying business helps demystify processes for creatives. Consulting can help struggling businesses find their footing. Storytelling is crucial in pitching and marketing. Creatives often lose sight of their passion in business. Business should be viewed as an adventure. The Gamify system provides tools for self-assessment and growth. Entrepreneurs often overlook logical planning due to emotional investment. Creating a business plan is crucial for success. Mistakes in business can lead to valuable lessons. Pricing strategies should reflect the value of the service provided. Building a supportive network is essential for growth. Gamifying business processes can make planning more engaging. Understanding your worth can lead to better client relationships. Raising prices can attract higher quality clients. Confidence in your product can enhance its perceived value. Surrounding yourself with diverse skill sets is key to success. Titles From Theater to Business: Paul Pape's Journey Gamifying Business: A New Approach to Success Sound bites "Don't do it." "I became Santa for nerds." "You can't do it alone." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to the Accidental Entrepreneur 01:08 Paul Pape's Journey from Theater to Business 03:01 The Birth of Pop Out Furniture 05:37 Transitioning to 3D Printing and Custom Designs 07:08 Building a Brand: Santa for Nerds 08:34 The Power of Twitch for Creatives 10:49 Consulting for a Dragon Sculpture Company 12:28 Gamifying Business: A New Approach 17:48 Creating a Scalable Business Model 24:11 The Gamify System: Tools for Success 27:24 The Emotional Side of Entrepreneurship 33:02 Learning from Mistakes: Real-Life Business Lessons 39:56 The Importance of Business Plans 45:53 Valuing Your Worth: Pricing Strategies 51:56 Building a Supportive Network for Success
In this episode of the Federal Help Center Podcast, Zach Golden walks listeners through a real county-level proposal from Union County, North Carolina to expose why complex scopes overwhelm even experienced contractors. Using a 70-page janitorial solicitation as an example, Zach explains how multi-site coordination, security requirements, staffing plans, schedules, and logistics quickly turn proposals into operational puzzles. He breaks down why these contracts can't be treated casually, how missing small details can derail an otherwise solid submission, and why contractors must think beyond cleaning tasks to include movement, supplies, access, and timing. This episode is a must-listen for contractors expanding into state, local, or large multi-facility projects. Key Takeaways Complex scopes require operational thinking: Multi-site projects are logistics problems, not just service descriptions. Restating requirements isn't enough: Proposals must show how work will be executed across buildings, schedules, and staff. You can't reach pricing without technical compliance: Even strong pricing means nothing if the technical approach falls short. If you want to learn more about the community and to join the webinars go to: https://federalhelpcenter.com/ Website: https://govcongiants.org/ Connect with Encore Funding: http://govcongiants.org/funding
Ballpark pricing can save you hours or trap you in a number you never should've agreed to. Tyler lays out how to give ranges with real context, explain the cost drivers, and use early budget talk to qualify the right clients and move cleanly into precon. Show Notes:00:00 Don't Apologize 00:44 The Ballpark Question 04:14 SWAG & Scope 07:27 Give a Range 12:07 Cost Drivers 15:47 Lead Red Flags 26:01 From Ballpark to Precon 33:49 2026 Updates Video Version:https://youtu.be/TPk5pRKa7iY Partners: Andersen Windows Buildertrend Harnish Workwear Use code H1025 and get 10% off their H-label gear The Modern Craftsman: linktr.ee/moderncraftsmanpodcast Find Our Hosts: Nick Schiffer Tyler Grace Podcast Produced By: Motif Media
Winter tends to get labeled as the “slow season” for photographers—but it doesn't have to be. In this episode, I'm sharing a few practical mindset shifts and strategies to help you keep booking sessions during the winter months, even when the weather isn't ideal and you don't have a studio.If Q1 usually feels quiet or unpredictable in your business, this episode will encourage you to work with the season instead of waiting it out.In this episode, we talk about:Why winter bookings slow down (and how to plan for it)Simple ways to position your sessions during colder monthsHow to stay visible and intentional in your marketing during Q1Grab a cup of coffee, hit play, and let's get you you booked together.
On this week's episode of The Business of Watches, we sit down with the principals of Horologer Ming and there is plenty to talk about. Founder and creative head Ming Thein explains his unique design and engineering process, while Chief Executive Officer Praneeth Rajsingh discusses financial challenges and financing solutions the small company has utilized to keep the business humming. We dive deep into the manufacturing process of the titanium, 3D-printed Polymesh bracelet that has the watch world buzzing, get an audio-only sneak peek at an upcoming release, and also hear about plans for a value-priced subsidiary brand they have in the works.We hope you enjoy the conversation. There is a lot to unpack! Be sure to leave any thoughts or questions in the comments section, and we'll do our best to respond.Want to subscribe so you never miss an episode? This new show is being published to the original Hodinkee Podcasts feed, so you can subscribe wherever you find your podcasts, including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or TuneIn.Show Notes4:50 Dubai Watch Week6:47 Ming and the Alternative Horological Alliance10:30 Computer Aided Design12:20 Ming Polymesh 33:20 Apple Watch39:00 Accredited Investor 42:20 Project finance 49:25 Swiss watch CEOs talk about component suppliers54:00 Ming 17.01 (Hodinkee)