Podcasts about Punctuation

From 2004 ..... Lynne Truss, author of the best-seller "Eats, Shoots, and Leaves: The Zero Tolerance Approach to Punctuation." The sound quality of this interview, as preserved, is rather poor- but we are still sharing it in the hopes that listeners will still find it to be compelling and entertaining.

What happens when we finally break the silence about one of humanity's most natural yet stigmatized experiences? Periods affect half the world's population, yet remain shrouded in shame and misunderstanding. This candid conversation bridges generations and cultures as Mia and and her guest Urmi Hossain share their personal experiences with menstruation across different backgrounds.The stigma begins early—Urmi recalls being forbidden from attending school classes about periods, while advertisements portrayed menstruation as a joyful experience with blue liquid instead of blood. Both women share cringe-worthy stories of workplace period emergencies and the complex mental gymnastics required to hide a perfectly normal bodily function from colleagues. Their experiences, despite being decades apart, remain disturbingly similar.The statistics are sobering: 30% of adolescents lack access to needed menstrual products, while 64% of adults report being unable to afford period products at some point in the past year. Globally, 500 million people lack access to basic menstrual necessities. Beyond the physical challenges, cultural taboos label menstruating women as "impure" and restrict their participation in religious and community activities.This episode doesn't just identify problems—it explores solutions, from workplace "period days" to better education for everyone, especially men. As Mia pointedly suggests, "If men had periods, there would be baskets of tampons and Advil everywhere." The conversation concludes with information about organizations working to address these issues, including Women in Leadership Canada and Femme Influence.Whether you menstruate or not, this conversation offers critical insights into an experience that shapes lives, workplaces, and communities. Breaking the taboo isn't just about comfort—it's about dignity, equality, and recognizing biological realities that affect millions. Listen, learn, and join us in normalizing this essential conversation.Urmi Hossain is a woman who wears many hats.; Urmi is a self-published author, speaker, blogger, polyglot, mentor, and holder of both the CFA ( Chartered Financial Analyst) and CAIA ( Chartered Alternative Investment Analyst) designations. She works in the financial services industry in Canada, where she lives.Her first book, Discovering Your Identity: A Rebirth from Interracial Struggle, reflects her journey as a third-culture kid.Passionate about women's empowerment, Urmi is the Social Media Lead for Women in Leadership's Victoria Chapter and the Campaign Manager at Femme Influence. She is a big proponent of learning and self-development; one of her passions is public speaking. She has been part of the Toastmasters club since 2019, where she served as both VP of Education and President.She enjoys reading thrillers and mystery books and working out in her free time, such as boxing, HIIT workouts, and running.Find Mia On Social Media ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Listen and subscribe to the podcast: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ | ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠

When we talk about acting tools, we usually mention headshots, reels, technique, or coaching. But punctuation? Not so much. And yet, punctuation—something you probably haven't questioned since middle school—might be interfering with your most natural, honest performances. The Problem Most Actors Don't Know They Have You get a script. Maybe it's commercial copy, maybe it's a scene. And without realizing it, your brain starts obeying the punctuation. Comma. Small pause. Period. Full stop, drop your pitch. Exclamation mark. Boost the energy, punch the line. Your body responds to those tiny marks automatically. But here's the thing: those cues might not match what your character is actually feeling. They might even contradict the emotional truth of the scene. If you've ever given a read that felt stiff, too “correct,” or like something was missing… this might be why. Why Punctuation Feels Helpful (But Can Hurt) Punctuation is meant to clarify meaning in writing. It's useful when you're reading silently or trying to follow someone else's train of thought. But acting isn't silent reading. It's expression. It's listening and responding. It's emotional and often messy. Here's where things get interesting: studies show that your brain processes punctuation differently depending on the mark. Semicolons and dashes? They activate the left side of the brain. Exclamation points and periods? The right side. Each carries its own emotional weight. Each sends a signal, even if you don't consciously register it. Which means your delivery may be less about what you're feeling… and more about how your brain is reacting to a comma. How to Break Free (Without Losing the Script) As Mandy Fisher shared in this episode of the Acting Business Boot Camp podcast, one of the most helpful things you can do—especially for commercial reads—is to strip out the punctuation entirely. Remove the commas. Take out the periods. Uncapitalize everything except brand names. Why? Because when you stop being told where to pause or emphasize, you start making those choices from instinct. From character. From context. It might feel strange at first, but that discomfort is exactly where more interesting, more connected performances begin. A Simple Experiment to Try This Week Take 60 seconds of script. Could be anything—a monologue, a commercial, a scene. Delete every piece of punctuation. Then read it out loud. Notice what your voice does. Notice how your pacing shifts. See what happens when you stop “reading” and start speaking. You might stumble. You might feel a little out of control. But you'll also find something new. A more honest rhythm. A stronger point of view. A version of the script that sounds less like a performance and more like a person. Final Thought: Punctuation or Presence? Punctuation has a place. It can help with rhythm and intention. But if you're performing with one eye on the commas, you're probably holding back. So ask yourself: are you punctuating for performance? Or are you speaking from presence? You already have a voice that's worth hearing. You don't need grammar rules to make it powerful. Let go. Experiment. Trust that you know how to connect without a period telling you when to stop. Ready to take your training deeper? Explore our upcoming classes and coaching programs to build confidence in your voice, your instincts, and your career. Check out what's coming up → Prefer to keep learning in your inbox? Subscribe to Mandy's Substack for more creative insights, voiceover tips, and honest conversations about the business of being an artist.

Welcome to episode 138. If you're managing client relationships - or leading others who do - this episode is packed with practical advice. I'm joined by David C. Baker, widely regarded as "the expert's expert" in the marketing agency world. David has advised over 1,000 entrepreneurial experts through his consulting firm, Punctuation, which he founded back in 1994. He's the author of 7 books, including the influential "The Business of Expertise" and "Secret Tradecraft of Elite Advisors," and his latest book “Selling your professional services firm”. His insights have been featured in The New York Times, Wall Street Journal and numerous other publications. As the co-host of the popular "2Bobs" podcast, David regularly shares his expertise on agency management. With decades of experience working with marketing services firms, David brings unparalleled insights into the nuanced relationship between account management and project management - which makes him the perfect guest as we prepare for the third annual Account and Project Management event in Atlanta in September 2025. Here's just a handful of the things we covered: • Why growing the account is the primary role of an account manager - and why order-taking isn't enough (particularly now) • The healthy tension that needs to exist between AMs and PMs - and what happens when one person does both • Why strong account managers read the room - not just run the meeting • How to lead clients without being pushy - and why honesty is your best sales strategy • Practical tips for handovers, managing workload, and setting account managers up for success • And why account managers can - and should - lead the AI conversation within the agency David also shares thoughts on leadership, compensation, and the future of AM in an AI-driven world. If this conversation sparked ideas for how you can grow your client relationships, lead more confidently, and future-proof your role - then imagine what could happen if you gave yourself two days completely focused on it. Join us in Atlanta this 23rd and 24th of September for the AM/PM Conference - the only event created specifically for agency account and project managers. This isn't just another conference. It's where you'll: • Surround yourself with people who get it - fellow AMs and PMs facing the same pressures and expectations you are • Learn practical strategies to retain and grow client accounts, manage tricky situations, and improve delivery - without burning out • Discover exactly how other agencies are using AI to work smarter, automate the boring stuff, and deliver faster, better outcomes • Leave with fresh tools, frameworks, and real-world examples you can put into practice the very next day I'll be there, David C. Baker will be there, and we're also joined by Brett Harned - founder of the Digital PM Summit and author of Project Management for Humans. If you're serious about growing your career and elevating your role - this is where it happens. Visit https://www.punctuation.com for all the details and to grab your spot.

What can prose writers learn from poets about language, line breaks, and punctuation? How can we help people engage with our work in different ways? Abi Pollokoff talks about her advice from poetry. In the intro, how to reframe success as a writer [Ink in Your Veins]; How I Write Podcast with Dean Koontz; Direct […] The post Language, Line Breaks, And Punctuation. Poetry With Abi Pollokoff first appeared on The Creative Penn.

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In this episode of High Theory, Jason Schneiderman talks about Nothingism. A term of his own coinage, a tongue-in-cheek manifesto, nothingism is an invitation to refuse the values of digital culture in favor of the values of print. You can read more about poetry at the end of print culture in Jason's new book, entitled Nothingism (Michigan UP, 2025). In the episode Jaason refers to M.B. Parkes's book Pause and Effect An Introduction to the History of Punctuation in the West and the poetry of his teacher Agha Shahid Ali. Jason Schneiderman is a poet and teacher. He is the author of five poetry collections, most recently Self Portrait of Icarus as a Country on Fire (Red Hen, 2024). He also edited an anthology of queer theory for first year writing courses called Queer: A Reader for Writers (Oxford, 2016). He works as a Professor of English at CUNY's BMCC and in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College. The image for this episode was made by Saronik Bosu. It shows a blue blur on a pink floral print background. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/literary-studies

In this episode of High Theory, Jason Schneiderman talks about Nothingism. A term of his own coinage, a tongue-in-cheek manifesto, nothingism is an invitation to refuse the values of digital culture in favor of the values of print. You can read more about poetry at the end of print culture in Jason's new book, entitled Nothingism (Michigan UP, 2025). In the episode Jaason refers to M.B. Parkes's book Pause and Effect An Introduction to the History of Punctuation in the West and the poetry of his teacher Agha Shahid Ali. Jason Schneiderman is a poet and teacher. He is the author of five poetry collections, most recently Self Portrait of Icarus as a Country on Fire (Red Hen, 2024). He also edited an anthology of queer theory for first year writing courses called Queer: A Reader for Writers (Oxford, 2016). He works as a Professor of English at CUNY's BMCC and in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College. The image for this episode was made by Saronik Bosu. It shows a blue blur on a pink floral print background. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/new-books-network

WE'RE BACK, fresh from seeing the band the myth the legend DJO!!!!! This episode theme was voted on by our Patreon, and discusses two songs with curious punctation: ...Ready for it? + Question...? !Tune in to hear us talk about our Djo concert experience, as well as uncover more similarities between the songs than we expected - including Abby's initial unnecessary dislike towards them. Follow us on Instagram or TikTok @swiftlorepod for clips, polls, and other fun things. To join our ⁠Patreon⁠, subscribe at https://www.patreon.com/SwiftlorePodcast. Interested in being a guest on the pod? ⁠Fill out our google form here! ⁠https://forms.gle/cTz2xTAPZCbsEuB36Want to send us something? Here's our P.O. Box address!Swiftlore PodcastP.O Box 53Penfield, NY, 14526Lastly! If you're interested in purchasing "Daisy, Plucked", here is the link to ⁠order:⁠ https://cewitherow.com/daisy-pluckedSee you all next week!

In this episode of High Theory, Jason Schneiderman talks about Nothingism. A term of his own coinage, a tongue-in-cheek manifesto, nothingism is an invitation to refuse the values of digital culture in favor of the values of print. You can read more about poetry at the end of print culture in Jason's new book, entitled Nothingism (Michigan UP, 2025). In the episode Jaason refers to M.B. Parkes's book Pause and Effect An Introduction to the History of Punctuation in the West and the poetry of his teacher Agha Shahid Ali. Jason Schneiderman is a poet and teacher. He is the author of five poetry collections, most recently Self Portrait of Icarus as a Country on Fire (Red Hen, 2024). He also edited an anthology of queer theory for first year writing courses called Queer: A Reader for Writers (Oxford, 2016). He works as a Professor of English at CUNY's BMCC and in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College. The image for this episode was made by Saronik Bosu. It shows a blue blur on a pink floral print background. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/poetry

In this episode of High Theory, Jason Schneiderman talks about Nothingism. A term of his own coinage, a tongue-in-cheek manifesto, nothingism is an invitation to refuse the values of digital culture in favor of the values of print. You can read more about poetry at the end of print culture in Jason's new book, entitled Nothingism (Michigan UP, 2025). In the episode Jaason refers to M.B. Parkes's book Pause and Effect An Introduction to the History of Punctuation in the West and the poetry of his teacher Agha Shahid Ali. Jason Schneiderman is a poet and teacher. He is the author of five poetry collections, most recently Self Portrait of Icarus as a Country on Fire (Red Hen, 2024). He also edited an anthology of queer theory for first year writing courses called Queer: A Reader for Writers (Oxford, 2016). He works as a Professor of English at CUNY's BMCC and in the MFA Program for Writers at Warren Wilson College. The image for this episode was made by Saronik Bosu. It shows a blue blur on a pink floral print background. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Support our show by becoming a premium member! https://newbooksnetwork.supportingcast.fm/digital-humanities

Should people use the Oxford comma? Is there a correct number of exclamation points per email? If someone ends a casual text with a period, does that mean they’re mad at you? This hour: punctuation and how we use it. We talk about the history of punctuation marks, timeless punctuation debates, and how writing for texts and emails has changed the way we use punctuation. GUESTS: Raquel Benedict: The most dangerous woman in speculative fiction; she’s the host of the Rite Gud podcast Claire Cock-Starkey: Author of Hyphens and Hashtags: The Stories Behind the Symbols on Our Keyboard Julia Pistell: Founding member of Sea Tea Improv and one of the hosts of the Literary Disco podcast The Colin McEnroe Show is available as a podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, TuneIn, Listen Notes, or wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe and never miss an episode! Subscribe to The Noseletter, an email compendium of merriment, secrets, and ancient wisdom brought to you by The Colin McEnroe Show. Join the conversation on Facebook and Twitter. Colin McEnroe, Jonathan McNicol, and Cat Pastor contributed to this show, which originally aired November 3, 2021.Support the show: http://www.wnpr.org/donateSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Visit thedigitalslicepodcast.com for complete show notes of every podcast episode. Join Brad Friedman and Jonathan Baker as they chat about a topic every business owner needs to think about at some point. Having an exit strategy! Jonathan Baker heads up the M&A practice at Punctuation. He has worked on dozens of deals both inside and outside the industry and brings a unique perspective as a fellow owner who has gone through the process himself. He graduated from Emory University's Goizueta Business School in 2005. His career began working at a small boutique marketing strategy consultancy. There, he was able to do marketing strategy and positioning work for many well-known Fortune 500 CPG companies. In 2011, he left to start a craft brewery, Monday Night Brewing where his focus was on marketing, sales, and taprooms. After helping his business partners grow to 180+ employees and numerous locations, Jonathan stepped away from the day-to-day to head up the M&A practice for Punctuation. He loves cocktails, music, and hiking, and lives in Atlanta with his wife, two kids, and entitled rescue Australian Shepherd, Oscar Snugs. The Digital Slice Podcast is brought to you by Magai. Up your AI game at https://friedmansocialmedia.com/magai

We're learning the unspoken rules of Gen Z texting and how tone can be misinterpreted over text.

We're learning the unspoken rules of Gen Z texting and how tone can be misinterpreted over text.

What'd you like? Send us a text.Duck Logic's vay-cay continues with a sketch Tim wrote for an “all-news” concept episode of their 2-hour comedy radio show on WLUP-AM in Chicago back in the day. It's an abridged version of the original, okay rather lengthy parody of a hard-hitting, investigative exposé of small-town local events called “The Interrogators.” Sounds wacky, right?• Get more laughs! Visit our website ducklogiccomedy.com• Special thanks to zapsplat.com for most of our “canned” SFX Thanks for listening! Listen to more. You'll laugh... and how!

1066. Do you really need that comma? Should your dashes have spaces? Is there ever just one "right" way to punctuate? June Casagrande, author of "The Best Punctuation Book, Period," busts punctuation myths, compares style guides, and looks at the surprising complexity of the humble em dash.Find June Casagrande at grammarunderground.com.

Most agency owners think selling their business will be easy. The reality? Most agencies aren't even sellable.Jonathan Baker, Practice Lead, M&A at Punctuation, breaks down exactly how to make your agency valuable, what buyers actually look for, and how to avoid the biggest M&A mistakes.If you're even thinking about selling your agency, you need to start setting it up NOW.What You'll Learn:The truth about selling a digital agencyWhat's a healthy profit margin for an agency? (If it's under 20%, you're in trouble)How much should agency owners actually pay themselves? (Most get this wrong)The #1 component to scaling an agency's profit for exitWhy founder-led sales are a trap (and what to do instead)How to price your agency services (hourly rates vs. value-based pricing)The biggest growth mistake agencies make before sellingHow to find a fun AND profitable nicheConnect with Jonathan Baker:Website - https://punctuation.com/Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandavidbaker/M&A Guidance - https://punctuation.com/garlic/Resources:Connect with IanDownload a Tackle Box!Supercharge your marketing and grow your business with video case stories today!Book a Discovery Call Today with Our ExpertsSubscribe to the YouTube Channel Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

(00:00-11:05) The launch of legal sports wagering in Missouri has been delayed until the fall. Denny Hoskins back at it again. High-school bookies rejoice. Wedding Tackle wants us to touch a girl and stop complaining. Mr. Lix says Denny Hoskins is an LBH. (11:13-26:44) Starting to like Murray State boys. Punctuation is important. Streaming options going forward for the professional sports leagues. Jackson taking shots at the 'goober callers.' State representative Ken Waller phones in with some information on the sports wagering issue. This show has an absolute strangle hold on Festus.(26:53-37:38) More discussion on the sports wagering situation in Missouri. Time for Jackson's questions. Inorganic stakes. Massive binary delta. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

(00:00-11:05) The launch of legal sports wagering in Missouri has been delayed until the fall. Denny Hoskins back at it again. High-school bookies rejoice. Wedding Tackle wants us to touch a girl and stop complaining. Mr. Lix says Denny Hoskins is an LBH. (11:13-26:44) Starting to like Murray State boys. Punctuation is important. Streaming options going forward for the professional sports leagues. Jackson taking shots at the 'goober callers.' State representative Ken Waller phones in with some information on the sports wagering issue. This show has an absolute strangle hold on Festus. (26:53-37:38) More discussion on the sports wagering situation in Missouri. Time for Jackson's questions. Inorganic stakes. Massive binary delta. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Love they say Is the mess you invite, The mess you make And the mess you leave behind.)   It's a flash, it's a paint, It's basil in the soup. It's a kite which finds the sky Because its cut loose.   It's a shore being tugged by the sea, It's the moon staying on in the morn, It's the sunshade in a roadside cafe, It's the chef's apron he can't take off.   It's the brownie you crave, It's a drink you like strong, It's a glass too many in a pub, It's a staid party and you want to pole-dance.   It's the chilly flake on your pizza, It's a fondue too hot, It's the tandoor crispening your roti, It's the buttered part of the toast.   It's the street which you love, It's the bend in the lane, It's the view which you search When the highway is long.   It's the blood you give in a camp Though you don't know its journey's end. It's the ticket which you get When you park too long.   It's the sock which you wear, It's the inner to keep you warm, It's the tattered shirt on the hanger, The torn jeans you don't mind.   It's as warm as worn-out slippers, A curtain which can't be still, It's a dream which won't let go, It's when you're awake though long-gone.   It's your song sung in a foreign tongue, It's a glimpse you get in a throng, It's the thong you see on a mannequin, It's when you are hungry in a rich repast.   It's the sigh of a dream unfinished, It's breathlessness after you run a mile, It's a vein blocked in your body, It's your heart going still, at first light.   When was love ever tea sipped alone? When was it ever just dawn's first shine? It's the hale which cracks the wind-shield, It's when its clear and you're snow-bound.   It's your semen in a condom, It's a baby you might not want. But when you hold it uncertainly It's, finally, the world you find in your arms.   If you liked this poem, consider listening to these other poems on the gorgeous mystery of love -  Punctuation for Lovers Coming to Your Side of the Bed Changing Your Address (on marrying & moving homes) Follow me on Instagram at @sunilgivesup. Get in touch with me on uncutpoetrynow@gmail.com   The details of the music used in this episode are as follows - Rising Sun by Sascha Ende Link: https://filmmusic.io/en/song/rising-sun Licence:  https://filmmusic.io/standard-license

Super Goal! 2, that’s right. Punctuation is hard in the SNES era. You also know how soccer games tend to go for us, so is this special? Do we dive in and wash ourselves in a hidden gem of soccer goodness that can reach even our sport game-hardened hearts? We won’t tell. (You probably know … Continue reading → The post Ep. 804 – Super Goal! 2 appeared first on TADPOG: Tyler and Dave Play Old Games.

Send us a textJoin Drake and Marie as they discuss using author voice vs character voice.Writer's room (50% off for lifetime membership): https://writersroom.mn.co/plans/338439?bundle_token=196fd3965307a65eee0d1bf2bc6fa5a6&utm_source=manualMembership for Just In Time Worlds: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCxvBH0EkwuHsQ9ryHHQNi2Q/joinGive us feedback at releasingyourinnerdragon(at)gmail(dot)comDiscord: https://discord.gg/vMrmBsF5fhMagicfall: http://magicfallnovel.com/Drake's Contact Details:Starving Writer Studio: https://www.starvingwriterstudio.com/Drake-U: https://class.drakeu.com/  - Use RYID25 for 25% off!Writer's Room: https://writersroom.mn.co/Marie's contact details:Books: https://mariemullany.com/booksJust In Time Worlds: https://www.youtube.com/c/JustInTimeWorlds?sub_confirmation=1

Keith Houston is the author of Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator. He joins Alan on this episode of AMSEcast to discuss the history of calculating. From the ancient Lebombo bone to mechanical calculators, Keith covers the evolution of calculating tools. This includes modern milestones like John Napier's logarithms, the HP-35 scientific calculator, and the TI-81's impact on U.S. classrooms. Keith also discusses his forthcoming book, Face With Tears of Joy. In this book, he explores the history, culture, and governance of emojis.     Guest Bio Keith Houston is the author of many books. In Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator, he explores the story behind this revolutionary tool. Keith is also the creator of the Shady Characters blog where he covers the history of punctuation and typography. He is working on a new book that dives into the history of emojis.     Show Highlights (1:55) When humans started counting (4:37) How the abacus and counting board advanced our ability to calculate (6:28) The creation of the algorithm (11:13) Why the Curta stands out in the evolution of the calculator (18:00) Why the Pocketronic from Texas Instruments was so groundbreaking (25:44) How the HANDY-LE fits into the story of calculating (26:30) HP's role in revolutionizing calculating with the HP-35 (29:05) How the TI-81 was able to be found in classrooms around the world (34:15) America's reaction to calculators in the classroom setting (36:17) What's next for Keith Houston       Links Referenced Shady Characters: https://shadycharacters.co.uk/ Shady Characters: The Secret Life of Punctuation, Symbols, and Other Typographical Marks: https://www.amazon.com/Shady-Characters-Punctuation-Symbols-Typographical/dp/0393064425 The Book: A Cover-to-Cover Exploration of the Most Powerful Object of Our Time: https://www.amazon.com/Book-Cover-Cover-Exploration-Powerful/dp/1324086351/ Empire of the Sum: The Rise and Reign of the Pocket Calculator: https://www.amazon.com/Empire-Sum-Reign-Pocket-Calculator/dp/0393882144 Face With Tears of Joy: https://www.amazon.com/Face-Tears-Joy-Natural-History/dp/1324075147

Interested in selling your service business one day? Service firms can be difficult to sell, because there are so many variables and so much emphasis on the people. Never fear, it can be done - even for an amount you dream of! But, you likely have a ton of work to do to make your service business attractive for potential buyers. We wanted you to learn from a thought leader who knows the M&A space super well, so we welcomed on Jonathan Baker, the Practice Lead of M&A for Punctuation and the Co-Founder of Monday Night Brewing. He advises small-to-midsize marketing services and digital firms on transactions and preparing for sale. And as always, if you need Strategic Counsel, don't hesitate to reach out to us at: ForthRight-People.com. FACEBOOK https://www.facebook.com/forthrightpeople.marketingagency INSTAGRAM https://www.instagram.com/forthrightpeople/ LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/company/forthright-people/ RESOURCES https://www.forthright-people.com/resources VIRTUAL CONSULTANCY https://www.forthright-people.com/shop

Jonathan Baker from Punctuation joins me, Matt Bertram, to explore strategies for maximizing business value through strategic M&A and succession planning. Learn how to enhance profitability, strengthen market positioning, and reduce founder dependency to make your business more attractive for sale. For marketing service firms, we emphasize the benefits of niche specialization and standing out in competitive markets.Selling a business is complex, involving political dynamics and nuanced relationships. Drawing from my own experience selling a business in my 20s, we discuss understanding critical deal terms like earn-outs and employment agreements, adapting to new management, and addressing stakeholder conflicts. Jonathan shares real-world examples and cautionary tales, underscoring the importance of thorough preparation to protect your interests.We also dive into agency growth and profitability, tackling strategic decisions like selling versus continued growth. Topics include fee revenue per employee, avoiding scope creep, and distinguishing personal financial contributions. Whether preparing for a sale or pursuing growth, this episode offers actionable insights for informed entrepreneurial decision-making.Guest Contact Information: - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandavidbaker/- punctuation.com—---More from EWR and Matt:Leave a Review if it was content you enjoyed: https://g.page/r/CccGEk37CLosEB0/reviewFree SEO Consultation: https://www.ewrdigital.com/discovery-callOne-on-One Consulting: https://www.ewrdigital.com/digital-strategy-consulting/private-consulting-session—The Unknown Secrets of Internet Marketing podcast is hosted by Internet marketing expert Matthew Bertram. The show provides insights and advice on digital marketing, SEO, and online business. Topics covered include keyword research, content optimization, link building, local SEO, and more. The show also features interviews with industry leaders and experts who share their experiences and tips. Additionally, Matt shares his own experiences and strategies, as well as his own successes and failures, to help listeners learn from his experiences and apply the same principles to their businesses. The show is designed to help entrepreneurs and business owners become successful online and get the most out of their digital marketing efforts.Find more great episodes here: https://www.internetmarketingsecretspodcast.com/  https://seo-podcast-the-unknown-secrets-of-internet-marketing.buzzsprout.comFollow us on:Facebook: @bestseopodcastInstagram: @thebestseopodcastTiktok: @bestseopodcastLinkedIn: @bestseopodcastPowered by: ewrdigital.comHosts: Matt Bertram Disclaimer: For Educational and Entertainment purposes Only.Support the show

#144 Jonathan Baker is the head of M&A at Punctuation – the leading authority on positioning, reinventing, and selling firms in the creative and digital space.    In this episode, we talk about the selling process. We cover:    ✅ How long does a typical sale take  ✅ How Jonathan and his team go about valuing an agency ✅ What owners need to do to prepare for the selling journey ✅ What type of agency typically is valued the highest  ✅ Why Punctuation is the right agency to partner with to sell your agency   After you have a listen and want to connect with Jonathan – reach out to him on here and get on their email list.  Connect with Pat at: pmcgovern@ascedia.com  Looking for more pods on travel? Check out: Travel Trends with Lindsey Roeschke If you like this pod, please take a minute and leave a review.  Your reviews are the green energy that powers this supertanker!  Thanks, for doing it – you're the best!  

Jonathan Baker is the Head of M&A services at Punctuation, an advisory firm that specializes in small- to mid-sized marketing services firms.In this episode, we explore the ins and outs of Mergers and acquisitions (M&A), diving into pertinent questions such as how buyers determine the value of a firm, knowing the right time to sell, and whether to prioritize the valuation itself or the terms of a specific deal. We also talk about the impact on employees of the M&A process and how to minimize that as much as possible.Links & mentions:punctuation.comjonathan@punctuation.com

Jonathan Baker is the head of M and A at Punctuation, a small advisory practice that helps firms with positioning, lead generation, benchmarking, valuation, and succession planning. Here, he shares the inside scoop on how to sell an agency and determine its worth. We also discuss two topics near and dear to Jonathan's heart: Australian shepherds and craft beer. Key Takeaways:- Common mistakes in creative firms- When to sell an agency- How to evaluate your agencyEpisode Timeline:1:15 The perils of living with an Australian shepherd2:30 How Punctuation helps media companies with positioning and benchmarking4:00 Considering the owner's lifestyle during the M and A process5:00 Selling a business to the right person6:45 Is there a common positioning pivot agencies are making these days?7:15 The importance of finding your niche8:30 How expertise affects pricing 9:10 The biggest mistakes creative firms are making these days10:15 How an owner's role evolves over time 12:35 When is it time to sell?15:15 The emotional toll of the M and A process17:45 The importance that EBITA plays in the evaluation 19:30 Jonathan's favorite craft brewThis episode's guest:• Jonathan Baker• Get free resources at Punctuation.com/PR360Subscribe and leave a 5-star review: https://pod.link/1496390646Contact Us!• Join the conversation by leaving a comment!• Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn!Thanks for listening! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Blair interviews David on his recent article about the idea that expertise does involve supplying answers, eventually, but mainly expertise is about asking the right questions, first, and then offering a few answers after the truth surfaces.   Links “Expertise Is Mainly About Asking Great Questions” by David C. Baker on Punctuation.com

Try Riverside free now: https://creators.riverside.fm/PodcastersPodcast & Use code: Podcast15 for an exclusive 15% off. Ash is joined for a second time by Paul, a podcast host coach as they review the Podcast Show ‘Women. Work. Wellbeing.' by Zoe Haydn Jones. They look at titles, artwork, general content and of course, the hosting skills of Zoe too. Previous Episode with Paul: https://omny.fm/shows/the-podcaster-s-podcast/paul-the-podcast-host-coach KEY TAKEAWAYS If you can't tell what a show is about from its name, then it isn't a good name. Punctuation can potentially impact SEO, keep this in mind when choosing a name. It's important to get artwork right, it's most people's first impression of you and the show. If you only have a small budget to get started it's worth paying a designer to create good artwork for your podcast show. Keep your podcast intros short and to the point. If you can make your guest feel comfortable, you will get the best content out of them. Don't be frightened of silences when interviewing, there is a tremendous amount of power in a pause and if you are worried the silences are too long you can always edit post record. Your audience wants to get to know you and you want to build a relationship with them, if you can create small moments of personal connection whilst still interviewing this can build a picture of who you are as a host and a person. The first part of a podcast title is the most important. Rather than using prerecorded generic intros and ads, rerecord and talk to your audience each time, this will make an ad or call to action sound and feel more genuine and authentic. Record an episode specific intro post-interview, you can tease the content that is about to come whilst building anticipation and interest. A bit of interview preparation can go a long way, it can stop you waffling and make your delivery as a host and interviewer more sleek.  BEST MOMENTS ‘I actually quite like the name it's clear about what it's about and that's the main thing with names' ‘If you're going to spend money on something spend it on artwork, it's important it looks good because that's the face of your show” “All the shows I listen to are very quick to get to the content” “Part of interview technique is not talking all the time, listening and not being afraid of those silences” “Be more specific with the things you learned, and marvel at your own podcast more” "Generic is a lot less likely to catch someone's attention" VALUABLE RESOURCES https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/women-work-wellbeing/id1632625036 Previous Episode with Paul: https://omny.fm/shows/the-podcaster-s-podcast/paul-the-podcast-host-coach Website EPISODES TO CHECK OUT NEXT Comparing Podcast Production Options | using AI? Building a High Ticket Offer | The Best Way to Monetise a Podcast ABOUT THE HOSTS Ashley Morris (Podcast Consultant) and Kane Baron  (Public Speaker) help independent podcasters launch, grow and monetise a podcast. They run the UK's largest podcast agency for independent creators, Progressive Media. Progressive Media take care of all things production, copywriting, design and video for podcasters round the globe. They have also recently launched Pod Partnerships, a new venture created to connect established podcasters with valuable audiences and innovative brands to create and manage win-win sponsorship campaigns. CONNECT & CONTACT Instagram LinkedIn Email: podcast@progressiveproperty.co.uk

“We try to help the sellers understand what the buyer's long-term vision is, what changes they expect to make, and over what period of time, because all of these things have implications on the business but also on emotions.” – Jonathan Baker The finer details of this episode:Overview of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) in the creative agency sector.Importance of preparation for agency owners considering M&A.Insights on valuation factors influencing agency sales.Discussion on the current M&A landscape and market trends.The significance of maintaining clean financial records for M&A readiness.Exploration of deal structures and their implications, including Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs).The role of agency owners post-acquisition and the need for clear communication with buyers.Timing considerations for initiating the M&A process.The impact of economic changes on agency valuations and buyer interest.Recommendations for agency owners to proactively prepare for potential sales. Episode resources:Summit Virtual CFO by Anders website: https://www.summitcpa.net/Love our content? Sign up for our newsletter: https://www.summitcpa.net/summit-newsletterDigital Dollars and Cents: A Virtual CFO's Playbook to help Digital Companies Create a Financial Roadmap to Success, is now an audio book! Download it here: https://vcfo.summitcpa.net/ddcConnect with Jonathan here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathandavidbaker/Check out Punctuation here: https://punctuation.com/ Timestamps: Welcome to the Creative Agency Success Show (00:00:00)Introduction to the podcast's purpose and focus on agency owners looking to scale. Discussion on M&A Preparation (00:00:15)Insights from Jonathan Baker about the importance of preparation for mergers and acquisitions. M&A Landscape Insights (00:00:39)Hannah reflects on the evolving trends in the M&A landscape and its implications for clients. Importance of Understanding M&A (00:01:13)Discussion on how understanding the M&A process can aid clients in their decision-making. Preparation Equals Easier Transition (00:01:39)Jimmy emphasizes that being well-prepared leads to a smoother M&A process and better outcomes. Introduction of Jonathan Baker (00:02:52)Jonathan Baker shares his background and expertise in helping firms prepare for M&A. Jonathan's M&A Journey (00:04:07)Jonathan recounts his personal experience with M&A, highlighting its complexities and emotional aspects. Valuation Nuances in M&A (00:06:19)Discussion on non-financial factors influencing valuation in the M&A process. Timing for M&A Conversations (00:07:51)Jonathan advises when clients should start preparing for M&A, ideally 3-4 years in advance. Post-Sale Involvement (00:09:22)Exploration of the buyer's perspective on post-sale involvement and its implications for sellers. Preventative Maintenance in M&A (00:11:33)Strategies to help owners navigate the transition and maintain business integrity post-acquisition. Deal Structure Non-Negotiables (00:14:01)Jonathan outlines his strong recommendations against certain deal structures, particularly ESOPs. Understanding ESOP Risks (00:15:07)Discussion on the potential pitfalls of employee stock ownership plans (ESOPs) in M&A. Navigating ESOP to M&A (00:18:01)Jonathan shares the challenges and processes of transitioning from an ESOP to an M&A deal. Preparing for M&A (00:19:11)Advice on steps companies should take to prepare for a potential acquisition. Importance of Accurate Financials (00:21:20)Emphasis on maintaining clean financials to facilitate smoother due diligence during M&A. Understanding Accrual Basis Accounting (00:22:01)Importance of running financials on an accrual basis for effective M&A preparation. Trends in M&A Post-COVID (00:22:57)Discussion on inflated valuations post-COVID and current market dynamics affecting M&A. Current Market Conditions for Sellers (00:24:24)Analysis of the current M&A landscape and advice for potential sellers. The COVID Boom and M&A Opportunities (00:24:49)Reflections on the opportunities presented during the COVID boom for agencies. Fun Question About Brewery Towns (00:25:17)A light-hearted discussion on top microbrewery towns in the U.S. Cultural Significance of Local Breweries (00:26:26)Exploration of how local breweries reflect community identity and culture. Contacting Jonathan for M&A Insights (00:27:54)Information on how listeners can reach out for M&A advice and brewery recommendations. Conclusion of the Episode (00:28:05)Wrap-up of the episode and appreciation for Jonathan's insights on M&A.

Welcome back to Know Like Trust! Today, I'm joined by Julia Douglas, creator of Behavioral Punctuation—and wow, you're in for a fresh perspective! Julia introduces us to her fascinating concept of using punctuation as a tool to elevate leadership and communication. From knowing when to “put a period” on projects to using an “exclamation point” to celebrate team wins, Julia's method offers simple but powerful ways to connect with others and lead with intention. She also dives into the “question mark” as a gateway to curiosity and collaboration, and explains how understanding these “punctuation preferences” can bring teams closer and improve outcomes. If you're ready for an inspiring new approach to leadership and relationships, hit play now! And don't miss Julia's 5-minute mini-keynote on Vimeo—just search “Behavioral Punctuation” and get ready to see communication in a whole new way. Rate, Review, Follow & Share! "Christine has a warm and welcoming style that brings out the best of her guests and shares it brilliantly with all her listeners." - If you're feeling all the feels too, please stop by the podcast, rate it and leave us a review. It really does help boost the show. Is there someone you think I should talk to? Heck, tell me who it is. Send me an email at christine@postandbeamcreative.com. Here are all the ways to connect: Christine George Instagram Schedule a free consultation with Christine Sign up for The Sunbeam newsletter: postandbeamcreative.com Here's how to connect with Julia: Momenteam.com Julia Douglas, Behavioral Punctuation on Vimeo Julia Douglas on LinkedIN

In the chaotic world of marketing mergers and acquisitions, how do you ensure a "clean exit"?In this episode, Jonathan Baker, practice lead for mergers and acquisitions at Punctuation, dives into the critical intricacies of M&A in the marketing services sector. He shares the emotionally charged journey of selling a business and uncovers strategies that transcend mere financial gain, focusing instead on the value-driven aspects that make a deal truly beneficial.You'll discover…Why the emotional aspect of M&A can upend even the best-laid spreadsheetsThe curious origin story behind the name "Punctuation"The unique challenges and opportunities within the fragmented marketing services marketHow lifestyle considerations often outweigh the highest financial offersThe latest trends in M&A that sellers and buyers need to know going into 2025

Send us a text“Take the time enjoy the journey and network with those around you.” - Jonathan BakerMastering Business Exits: Insights from Jonathan at PunctuationIn this episode of the Deep Wealth Podcast, Jonathan from Punctuation brings an in-depth exploration of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) for small to mid-sized marketing services firms. Sharing his journey from corporate life to founding Monday Night Brewing, and eventually becoming an M&A advisor, Jonathan emphasizes the critical aspects of selling a business including the financial and emotional dimensions. The discussion covers essential strategies such as the necessity of specialization, understanding buyer motivations, creating self-sustaining businesses, and the importance of clean financial records. 00:00 Introduction to Punctuation and Key Figures05:00 Jonathan's Journey: From Corporate to Entrepreneurship15:46 Understanding Buyer Perspectives21:39 The Cost of Selling a Business: Budgeting Tips22:35 Preparation Time for a Successful Business Sale24:57 The Role of AI in Marketing and Business28:42 Key Advice for Entrepreneurs: Focus and Financials33:26 The Importance of Trust and Professional AdvisorsClick here to subscribe to The Deep Wealth Podcast to save time and effort.SELECTED LINKS FOR THIS EPISODEPunctuation WebsiteInsights | PunctuationJonathan Baker  | LinkedInLearn More About Deep Wealth MasteryFREE Deep Wealth eBook on Why You Suck At Selling Your Business And What You Can Do About It (Today)Resources To Have You Thrive And ProsperLooking to unlock your path to wealth and success? The Deep Wealth Podcast is your go-to source to extract your deepest wealth in business and life. Picture yourself mastering the foundational strategies that led our founders to a 9-figure exit. Ready to grow your profits, boost the value of your business, and optimize your life post-exit? Shoot us a quick email at insights[at]deepwealth.com with "Deep Wealth" in the subject line for more info. Click the links below to explore the resources, gear, and books that have paved the way for our guests and the high-achieving Deep Wealth team to reach remarkable success. Here's to helping you unlock the riches and success you deserve! https://www.deepwealth.com/thriveContact Deep Wealth: Client testimonials The Deep Wealth Strategy Map LinkedIn Instagram Subscribe to The Deep Wealth Podcast Help us pay it forward by leaving a review.May you continue to thrive and prosper while remaining healthy and safe!

1022. This week, we look at election terms like “president-elect” and “lame duck” and how they're used during a U.S. presidential transition. Then, I dig into my favorite kind of hot grammar news: people in Germany are angry about apostrophes! The "election words" segment is by Karen Lunde Hertzberg, a former Quick and Dirty Tips editor who has crafted hundreds of articles on the art of writing well. She was an online education pioneer, founding one of the first online writing workshops. These days, she provides writing tips and writing coach services at HelpMeWriteBetter.com.

Turns out periods are the hostile punctuation of the texting world, we dream of raising enough money during PDD to buy RMHC a new van, Jason took his first trip to Sioux Falls, SD and he loved it! Plus, he stopped by Minnesota's Largest Candy Store -- did his find some tasty treats? Plus, move over Spirit Halloween, Spirit Christmas is coming for the holiday season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Turns out periods are the hostile punctuation of the texting world, we dream of raising enough money during PDD to buy RMHC a new van, Jason took his first trip to Sioux Falls, SD and he loved it! Plus, he stopped by Minnesota's Largest Candy Store -- did his find some tasty treats? Plus, move over Spirit Halloween, Spirit Christmas is coming for the holiday season! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoicesSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

It's common for merging and acquisition to be on an agency owner's mind from the very beginning, even if it is not part of their original goals. Even if you find yourself still wanting to scale your business before selling, it's never too early to start taking steps that will make the M&A process easier down the road. Jonathan Baker is here today to share how the M&A landscape looks right now, what factors into valuation decisions, the importance of patience in the process, and more. This week, episode 231 of The Digital Agency Growth Podcast is about preparing your agency for a successful acquisition!Watch our latest video training, How to Take Charge of Your Agency's Future Revenue. During this training, you'll learn how we get qualified appointments every week using tasteful and highly targeted email outreach.In this episode of The Digital Agency Growth Podcast, Jonathan Baker shares the importance of patience in the M&A process and actionable steps you can take right now to start preparing your agency for acquisition, well before valuation. Jonathan Baker is the Practice Lead of the M&A practice at Punctuation, a small consultancy focused exclusively on servicing creative, digital, and marketing services firms. After starting his carrer in marketing strategy and positioning, Jonathan left in 2011 to pursue his own business, Monday Night Brewing. Along with two business partners,he has grown the craft brewery to five locations and nto one of the largest craft breweries in the nation by volume. My focus has been on marketing, sales, and taprooms. Jonathan recently stepped out of the day-to-day at Monday Night to work with his father David to grow Punctuation.In this episode, Dan and Jonathan discuss the following:COVID's impact on agency goals due to vulnerability.Focusing on a few key lead generation activities instead of spreading yourself thin.The importance of patience in the M&A process.Challenges that can ruin a deal last minute.Thank you for listening! If you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow, rate and review the podcast and tell me your key takeaways!Learn more about The Digitial Agency Growth Podcast at https://www.salesschema.com/podcast/ and our Video training at http://salesschema.com/takecharge CONNECT WITH JONATHAN BAKER:LinkedInPunctuationMonday Night BrewingCONNECT WITH DAN ENGLANDER:LinkedInSales Schema

Do you want to sell your agency someday? Can you imagine a profitable sale and exit agency in the future? Do you feel an acquisition is the mark of business success? Selling your agency shows you've built a robust and profitable business, which is a noteworthy achievement. Today's featured guest helps his clients get ready to find a perfect buyer and reach a deal that withstands the test of time. He'll discuss why the common reasons to sell are not necessarily the best reasons as well as why undervaluing yourself could hurt your valuation. He also shares common deal killers and deal makers. He highlights the importance of considering personal fulfillment and financial objectives when deciding to sell an agency. Jonathan Baker is the co-owner of Punctuation, an all-in-one advisory practice that helps marketing firms position themselves with lead-generation plans. In particular, Jonathan helps small to medium-sized companies get ready to sell. He discusses the process of selling marketing services firms and challenges the idea that selling is always the pinnacle of success, emphasizing that success should be what truly drives individuals. In this episode, we'll discuss: What does the $1 million mark communicate? Deal killers and deal makers. The true cost of undervaluing yourself. What if you don't want to sell?  Subscribe Apple | Spotify | iHeart Radio Sponsors and Resources E2M Solutions: Today's episode of the Smart Agency Masterclass is sponsored by E2M Solutions, a web design, and development agency that has provided white-label services for the past 10 years to agencies all over the world. Check out e2msolutions.com/smartagency and get 10% off for the first three months of service. Why Do Most Agency Owners Choose to Sell Their Digital Agency? Many people build agencies with the ultimate goal of selling them at some point. There's an innate drive to sell and, to most people, selling seems like the pinnacle of success. However, selling is not always the right answer. According to Jonathan, success should be defined as whatever drives an individual. Common reasons to sell an agency include lack of enjoyment, approaching retirement, financial goals, burnout, or desire for a career change. Overall, selling should not be the default option and it's most advisable if you know exactly what you want to do after selling. However, if you just want to sell in order to have a ton of money or because you feel burnout, maybe it's time to start looking into some key hires to take over the tasks that are most draining for you while also increasing profits. In some cases, owners that are growing too much or too fast choose to sell. They may have started their business to do work they love and can continue to do so with a small team of employees However, when it comes to further scaling the agency and reaching maybe 100 employees, it seems impossible to manage. Burnout and frustration are scenarios that could be solved without necessarily selling and still guaranteeing you'll be able to continue to do the work you love while enjoying more free time. In the end, giving up too soon can prevent you from reaching your full potential and achieving greater success. Why the $1 Million EBITDA Translates Into a Sellable Agency How do you know when you've reached your full potential? When you build an agency with at least $1 million in EBITDA, you're definitely doing something right and most likely just inches away from greater success. Most owners encounter many obstacles in this stage, but once you start focusing on the problems and the things you don't have you start to give up. The $1 million in EBITDA goal is a common measure for a sellable agency since it'll open up the pool of buyers interested in your business. It also says something about the way you run your agency, which will create more competition among prospective buyers and, in turn, increase your multiples and price. Ultimately, it's a mark that will communicate that you're not as integral to the business as when you're running a 10-person firm. Maximizing Your Agency's Value: Key Considerations Before Selling It's important to understand that your agency's worth is not guaranteed as it is contingent on a variety of factors such as client concentration and employee retention. The way a purchase deal is usually structured is you'll get a percentage of the valuation paid upfront and the rest is earned based on hitting performance targets over the next few years. However, earnouts are also seen as a potential pitfall, as they can be designed in a way that makes it difficult for the seller to succeed. Usually, the higher the client concentration the lower you can expect to get upfront. Selling your agency means losing control over it and your performance post-acquisition could be impacted by the new owners. Hence, it is crucial for sellers to carefully consider the terms of the deal and ensure they have a level of control until the earnout is paid in full. As a seller, your primary focus should be on negotiating a deal where you're happy with the money you get upfront, since it may be the only money you'll see. Agency Acquisition Deal Killers and Deal Makers Even if you're financially sound and get a good offer, several things could still be potential deal killers. From a seller's perspective, culture plays a significant role in the success of a deal. The transition from being the boss to having a boss again can be a deal breaker if the cultural fit is not right. The earn-out period, where the seller continues to work for the buyer for a few years, can be challenging if the culture clash is too great. This can lead to the seller walking away from a potentially lucrative deal in favor of maintaining their autonomy. Additionally, the buyer's long-term plans for the agency can either make or break the deal. Even though they say all the right things at first, as negotiations progress their true intentions may become clear. Sellers need to be strategic and discerning in their interactions with potential buyers to ensure that their agency is in good hands. On the other hand, from a buyer's perspective, having clean books and transparent financial practices will be key in securing a successful deal. Buyers will scrutinize the financials of the agency to ensure that they are making a sound investment. Sellers need to be honest about their expenses and factor in any non-essential costs that may not transfer to the new owner. It's a step that can help sellers increase their EBITDA and make their agency more attractive to potential buyers. The True Cost of Undervaluing Your Agency Agencies often overestimate their financial position, which is why it is essential to seek professional guidance rather than relying solely on QuickBooks. A financial expert can analyze your numbers and pinpoint areas for improvement. A lot of agency owners think their profit is higher than it really is because they're not paying themselves enough. Once the buyer comes in and takes a look at the numbers, they'll realize replacing the agency owner will cost much more than what they're currently paying themselves. How much should you be paying yourself? It'll of course depend on a number of factors including the number of employees; however, if your agency has reached $1 million in EBITDA, that number should be above $200K. This will not only be important for the negotiations, but it will also be relevant if you sell with an earnout. If you sign up to be an employee for the next three years while a certain goal is reached, do you really want your salary to be $100K? It's a lot easier to argue for a higher salary if you've been paying yourself a higher salary all along. Navigating the Post-Sale Period with Agency Clients Once a deal is reached how long should you wait before letting clients know you're selling? It depends. Most of the time you want to wait at least six months before telling them. You don't want them to jump ship and it's better they get the news once they can see the service quality has not declined during that time and hopefully has even improved. However, if one of your clients accounts for 70% or more of the business then you'll probably want them to be on board from the get-go. It also depends on the way the buyer wants to handle the transaction. Are they trying to get the agency under a brand name immediately after purchase? Are they comfortable with not making drastic changes right out of the gate? In that case, waiting a couple of months could be the best course of action. To safeguard your interests, include a clause in your contracts that allows for the transfer of clients with written notice. This way, you'll minimize the need for client cooperation and won't risk losing the deal. What if You Don't Want to Sell Your Agency? Most agencies will never sell. If this is your case, then make the right moves to build a profitable agency that will give you the quality of life you want. A lot of the adjustments you'd have to make to attract buyers are the same things that make a good business, even if you're not selling it. If you built a profitable business, love the work, and delegate enough so you have the time to enjoy the fruits of your labor, then you've already created a fulfilling business and life. Many business owners end up selling because they feel isolated and hope being part of a bigger firm will solve this problem. However, more often than not they end up creating more problems than they're solving. Instead of selling, try finding a competent number two employee you can trust. Having a strong second-in-command can make it easier to delegate tasks, make important decisions, and ultimately, grow your agency. It's not easy but once you find the perfect fit growing the agency will go back to being a fun experience. However, in case you really can't find this person, maybe it's time to question whether you're managing and incentivizing people the right way. Do You Want to Transform Your Agency from a Liability to an Asset? Looking to dig deeper into your agency's potential? Check out our Agency Blueprint. Designed for agency owners like you, our Agency Blueprint helps you uncover growth opportunities, tackle obstacles, and craft a customized blueprint for your agency's success.

Next episode is the 200th, therefore this is the 199th. I raid the 66 pages of ideas for episodes I have been keeping for nearly a decade, and present to you 199 that I have not yet made into podcasts (except for this one). Find the episode's transcript, plus more information about the topics therein, at theallusionist.org/199ideas. NEWSLUSIONIST: The new Allusionist live show Souvenirs is on tour in the UK right now! Rush to theallusionist.org/events for tickets and dates. And if you fancy concocting a quiz question for the imminent 200th episode, go to theallusionist.org/quiz to submit it; your deadline is 6 September 2024. To help fund this independent podcast, take yourself to theallusionist.org/donate and become a member of the Allusioverse. You get regular livestreams with me and my collection of reference books, inside scoops into the making of this show, watchalong parties eg the new season of Taskmaster featuring my brother Andy, and the company of your fellow Allusionauts in our delightful Discord community.  This episode was produced by me, Helen Zaltzman, with music and editorial assistance from Martin Austwick of palebirdmusic.com. Find @allusionistshow on Instagram, Facebook, Threads, Bluesky, TikTok, YouTube etc. Our ad partner is Multitude. If you want me to talk about your product or thing on the show, sponsor an episode: contact Multitude at multitude.productions/ads. This episode is sponsored by: • Home Chef, meal kits that fit your needs. For a limited time, Home Chef is offering Allusionist listeners eighteen free meals, plus free shipping on your first box, and free dessert for life, at HomeChef.com/allusionist.• Squarespace, your one-stop shop for building and running your online empire/new home for your cryptic puzzle that takes months to solve. Go to squarespace.com/allusionist for a free 2-week trial, and get 10 percent off your first purchase of a website or domain with the code allusionist. • Bombas, whose mission is to make the comfiest clothing essentials, and match every item sold with an equal item donated. Go to bombas.com/allusionist to get 20% off your first purchase.  • LinkedIn Ads convert your B2B audience into high quality leads. Get $100 credit on your next campaign at linkedin.com/allusionist.Support the show: http://patreon.com/allusionistSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Brad and Dave discuss using rewards and add-ons in a Kickstarter campaign. Then, they tackle the problem of whether your dialogue should feature proper English or your character's "natural" speech.Today's showKickstarter mistake — confusing rewards with add-onsCheck out Dave's Kickstarter at Newdrivebook.comShould you write in proper English?UPDATE: Reuben Awards — two live ComicLab shows on Thursday, Aug. 22How to start at the very beginningSummaryIn this conversation, Brad and Dave discuss their experiences with building Lego sets and building a gaming PC. They also talk about the importance of structuring Kickstarter rewards and add-ons, and the psychology behind offering choices to backers. They emphasize the need to make a profit on add-ons and to account for them in the Kickstarter goal. They also mention the upcoming live shows at the National Cartoonist Society Reuben Awards and discuss the possibility of future speaking engagements. In this part of the conversation, Brad and Dave discuss the balance between writing in proper English and writing dialogue that sounds natural. They emphasize the importance of considering the audience and the potential reach of the comic. They also discuss the use of slang and specific language choices, highlighting the need to make slight modifications to appeal to a wider audience. They stress the importance of using punctuation properly, especially in comedy, where timing is crucial. They also provide advice for aspiring comic creators, encouraging them to start making comics and to seek opportunities for publication, even if it means facing potential embarrassment.TakeawaysBuilding LEGO sets and a gaming PC can be challenging and require attention to detail.When structuring Kickstarter rewards, it's important to offer a variety of options and price tiers to appeal to different backers.Add-ons can be a profitable addition to a Kickstarter campaign, but it's crucial to ensure they are priced to make a profit.Digital rewards can be a significant source of income for a Kickstarter campaign and have the advantage of no shipping costs.Live shows and speaking engagements can be exciting opportunities for cartoonists to connect with their audience and expand their reach. When deciding on the language and dialogue choices for your comic, consider the audience and potential reach of your comic.Making slight modifications to appeal to a wider audience can help you reach more readers.Proper punctuation is crucial, especially in comedy, as it affects timing and delivery.Start making comics and learn from your mistakes. Seek opportunities for publication to improve your craft.Embrace the potential for embarrassment as a learning experience and a way to improve your skills. You get great rewards when you join the ComicLab Community on Patreon$2 — Early access to episodes$5 — Submit a question for possible use on the show AND get the exclusive ProTips podcast. Plus $2-tier rewards.Brad Guigar is the creator of Evil Inc and the author of The Webcomics Handbook. Dave Kellett is the creator of Sheldon and Drive.

Welcome to Julie's webinar, “The GPS of Writing: Grammar, Punctuation, and Spelling.” Since Julie is taking a short break from the podcast to focus on her newest book, we're replacing our typical podcast with a broadcast of this webinar.Throughout the webinar, Julie weaves a metaphor for grammar, punctuation, and spelling: Grammar is the rules of the word-party, punctuation is the decorator and bouncer, and spelling is the personal stylist.Most importantly, Julie reminds anxious parents that, at the end of the day, what children really need to learn is how grammar, punctuation, and spelling serve their self expression. It's not about memorizing rules or being perfect. It's about repeated exposure to meaningful experiences with living literature.Resources:Start a free trial of CTCmath.com to try the math program that's sure to grab and keep your child's attention.Don't miss Fall Class Registration. Full class descriptions here.Check out the 2024-2025 Brave Writer Mechanics and Literature Programs.You can find “Charlotte's Web” and other books in the Brave Writer Book Shop.Get free samples of our Brave Writer products.Want the digital Brave Writer products professionally printed and quickly shipped to your home? Order physical copies from The Homeschool Printing Company.Sign up for our Text Message Pod Ring to get podcast updates and more!Send us podcast topic ideas by texting us: +1 (833) 947-3684Connect with Julie:Instagram: @juliebravewriterThreads: @juliebravewriterTwitter: @bravewriterFacebook: facebook.com/bravewriterConnect with Melissa:Website: melissawiley.comSubstack: melissawiley.substack.comInstagram: @melissawileybooksTwitter: @melissawileyProduced by NOVA Media

Every few years we're told that we need to move on from using email newsletters as a part of our marketing platform. And David says that advice has always been wrong.   Links David's article on Punctuation.com (subscribe to his newsletter at the bottom of the page) “Email is the Most Consistent, Reliable Marketing Channel on the Web and I Can Prove It” by Rand Fishkin

Is it passive aggressive to use a period at the end of a sentence? Also, what should the Steelers do with their starting QB spot? Plus, Two-a-Days rolls along with the Bills! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it passive aggressive to use a period at the end of a sentence? Also, what should the Steelers do with their starting QB spot? Plus, Two-a-Days rolls along with the Bills! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Is it passive aggressive to use a period at the end of a sentence? Also, what should the Steelers do with their starting QB spot? Plus, Two-a-Days rolls along with the Bills! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices