Podcasts about rotbart

Ken Banta is the founder and CEO of The Vanguard Network, a by-invitation-only community for top-level executives. He and his firm help C-Suite executives and business owners fine-tune their management skills, build valuable new relationships, and elevate the performance of their organizations. One of Ken's surprising recommendations is that companies do away with long-term strategic plans and instead focus primarily on the immediate horizon. “The way things move today is so quick and so unpredictable that having detailed strategies …seems to me to be really antiquated,” he says, akin to trying to predict the location of the next lightning strike. Ken is the author of Seeing Around Corners: C-Suite Wisdom from America's Most Insightful Leaders, a powerful collection of leadership insights from dozens of wise CEOs, general counsels, and boardroom veterans. But Ken's insights aren't only applicable to large companies and for-profit organizations. Any effective leader can take away a great deal of actionable advice from Ken's book and this week's conversation.  Wouldn't it be nice to see around the next corner? Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Ken Banta, The Vanguard Network Posted: July 28, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 43:54 Episode: 14.8 POPULAR EPISODES: Discover Johnny Molson's Proven Method to Win Lifelong Customers and Build Cascading Profitability Why Civics, Good Governance, and Ethics Are Essential for Small Businesses and Entrepreneurs Are Your Customers and Clients Likely To Wear Your ‘Team Colors' As They Clap and Stomp for Your Success?  

Gold is soaring, silver’s riding the green tech wave, and the dollar is on the decline. As precious metals outshine traditional assets, investors are rethinking where to place their bets.A new report from J. Rotbart & Co. breaks down what’s driving the shift and what it could mean for portfolios in the months ahead. Are real assets taking the lead in 2025? And is this just the beginning?On Wealth Tracker, Hongbin Jeong speaks to Joshua Rotbart, Founder and Managing Partner, J. Rotbart & Co, to find out more.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Clarity and Brevity are the highest creativity. But “clear and brief” does not mean simple and predictable.One the most talented writers of advertising in the world would be surprised to hear me call him that. Jonathan Edward Durham is a novelist. He recently posted this random thought.“‘Why am I so sad today?' I ask myself after staring at my little handheld sadness machine and clicking all the sad little things that will definitely make me sad.”You may not agree with Durham's statement, but you will agree it was artfully crafted.What Durham gave us was clarity and brevity without predictability. This is the mark of a great ad writer.“Why am I so sad today?” immediately gets our attention. We are compelled to keep reading.We are surprised that he owns “a little handheld sadness machine.” But our cleverness allows us to translate it as “iPhone” and we receive a tiny spasm of delight.You have never heard of “a little handheld sadness machine” but you knew exactly what it was.His 30-word sentence demonstrated clarity, brevity, and creativity, but none of what Jonathan Edward Durham wrote was simple or predictable.Durham's ability to bring us – his readers, his listeners, his customers – into active participation in a one-way conversation is pure genius.Jonathan Edward Durham causes us to become engaged with what he is saying.You can do it, too.“Time + Place + Character + Emotion.” That's it. That's how Stephen Semple turns a weak story into a powerful one in his famous TED-X talk.Here's how Jonathan Edward Durham uses Time + Place + Character + Emotion to tell us a story in less than 30 seconds.“About two years ago, we moved across the country. It was a big, stressful move, and anxieties were high all around, and it had only been about six months since we rescued Jack, so he was really just beginning to adjust to having a forever home. Needless to say, Jack didn't understand why a bunch of strangers were taking all of our things, and he was having a very, very ruff time with the whole process.”“We want Jack to live forever. That's why we feed him The Wizard's Magic dog food.”Jonathan Edward Durham's wonderful story became an excellent ad with my addition of just 16 words. “We want Jack to live forever. That's why we feed him The Wizard's Magic dog food.”You already know how to write the 16 words. Now you need to learn how to tell a wonderful story in 76 words like Durham did.Time + Place + Character + Emotion. Give it a try.Roy H. WilliamsPS – Most people use too many words to make too small a point. The average writer wraps lots of words around a small idea. Inflated sentences are fluffy and empty like a hot air balloon. Good writers deliver a big idea quickly. Tight sentences hit hard. – Indy Beagle“Facts tell. Stories sell.” – Tom SchreiterWho do you call when you need your people to cooperate, innovate, and create? Meta, Google, Salesforce, and other big companies call a woman who has a golden reputation for legendary results. Her methods are unorthodox, unconventional, and irresistible. And her credentials are unique: she is an improv entertainer who trained to be a dancer at Juilliard. Her name is Melissa Dinwiddie and she can play the ukulele. Roving reporter Rotbart...

Melissa Dinwiddie doesn't have an MBA. She's never worked for a consulting giant, such as McKinsey, Boston Consulting, or Bain. She is a ukulele-playing, jazz-singing, Julliard-trained dancer and improv entertainer. Yet when companies, including Meta, Google, Uber, Intuit, and Salesforce, seek fresh thinking on innovation and team creativity, they turn to Melissa for results. Melissa draws parallels between performance troupes, such as her All That Jazz improv jazz group, and business teams. To be successful, she notes, all members must listen closely, support one another, adapt on the fly, and create something from nothing.   Melissa is the founder and CEO of Creative Sandbox Solutions, communication, connection, and creativity experts. Her firm's specialty is helping teams blast through creative roadblocks. She is the author of The Creative Sandbox Way: Your Path to a Full-Color Life, which she wrote to help readers be comfortable with and embrace their own, authentic creativity. As Melissa explains this week, her unconventional background and unorthodox methods —  including having six- and seven-figure salaried executives build with Lego bricks — consistently unlock breakthrough ideas and enhance team performance. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Melissa Dinwiddie, Creative Sandbox SolutionsPosted: July 21, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 49:42 Episode: 14.7

Mitch Weisburgh is on a crusade to get five million people to change their minds. Literally. A lifelong educator and entrepreneur, he helps teachers and students to mindshift away from reflexive reactions to setbacks, obstacles, and low moods. Rather than give in to them, he shows members of school communities how they can adopt a reasoned mentality that seeks solutions and opportunities, and restores optimism. Mitch's classroom approach works as well, if not better, for business owners, executives, and entrepreneurs facing professional or personal challenges. The next time your computer system goes down, or your shipment is lost in transit, or your flight is canceled, or a competitor poaches your best employee, you can react or you can mindshift and respond productively. Mitch is the author of MindShifting: Stop Your Brain from Sabotaging Your Happiness and Success. It is the first in a planned trilogy of helpful guides focused respectively on resourcefulness, resilience, and collaboration. As Napoleon Hill observed, “Whatever the mind can conceive and believe, it can achieve.” Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Mitch Weisburgh, MindshiftingPosted: July 14, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 48:23 Episode: 14.6

“Do it before you die.” Those five words sum up Carl Barney's advice to business leaders and other wealthy individuals to find a deeper level of success and satisfaction by “pre-questing” meaningful gifts to individuals and institutions — not in their wills — but while they can still witness the impact of their generosity. Carl, author of the new book The Happiness Experiment: A Revolutionary Way to Increase Happiness, is a philanthropist who grew wealthy as an educational entrepreneur. He is the founder of the Prometheus Foundation, which identifies and supports independent thinkers who have innovative ideas, work smart, follow through, and achieve results. The Foundation is guided by the philosophy of Ayn Rand, with a healthy portion of Aristotle mixed in.  In his book, Carl makes a key distinction between philanthropy and pre-questing. While both are praiseworthy, pre-questing is a more personal way to express gratitude to those who've enriched your life, such as teachers, mentors, colleagues, and friends. Carl has found that making others happy will also make the giver happier. That translates to becoming a better leader, businessperson, family member, and friend. “It's not enough to feel grateful,” Carl says. “You have to express it — in ways that matter to the people who made a difference in your life.” Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Carl Barney Posted: July 7, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 42:31 Episode: 14.5 RELATED EPISODES: “No-Strings-Attached” Giving is a Proven Method of Maximizing Client Relationships The UnBusiness Story Behind Chapel Dulcinea The World Needs More People Like Margaret and Riyaz Adat

Do you suffer from glossophobia? No pill or injection will cure it. But this week's guest, Ruth Milligan, has a proven antidote for the nearly eight out of ten people who experience anxiety or fear of public speaking — also known as glossophobia. Ruth is the founder and managing director of Articulation, a 15-year-old executive communication coaching consultancy. She is also the co-author of the new book “The Motivated Speaker: Six Principles to Unlock Your Communication Potential.” Ruth was the force behind one of the earliest TEDx events in the country, TEDxColumbus, where she spent a decade observing both masterful and woeful presenters. That experience laid the foundation for her consultancy, which aims to help anyone who needs to improve their message delivery, whether before a large audience in an auditorium or an intimate group of employees and customers. In Ruth's experience, what you say matters—but how you say it often matters more. Ruth and her colleagues at Articulation leave it to others to coach clients on content. Her firm's expertise lies in knowing how to deliver any message in a way that produces the desired results. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Ruth Milligan, Articulation Posted: June 30, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 49:50 Episode: 14.4 RELATED EPISODES: Discover the Power of Effective Communication to Support Career Advancement and Life Satisfaction Three Words and Two Pieces of Advice That Will Make You a Much Better Speaker This is YOUR Blind Voice (Speaking) Audition: Do You Have What It Takes?

Precious metals have always been seen as safe havens—but in today’s world of shifting interest rates, geopolitical uncertainty, and changing investor priorities, their role is evolving. In Asia, gold remains a symbol of both tradition and strategy, as high-net-worth individuals look to diversify and safeguard their wealth. So how are the wealthy approaching gold and other metals in 2025—and what does that tell us about the future of wealth preservation? On Wealth Tracker, Hongbin Jeong speaks to Joshua Rotbart, Founder and Managing Partner, J. Rotbart & Co., to find out more. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

What began as a labor of love for Jackie Lapin — traveling the world and taking captivating photos — has blossomed into a thriving business and membership community. Today, Jackie's The Historic Traveler offers frequent blog posts, a vast library of images, curated reading lists, historical insights, and exclusive travel resources, all designed for those who share her wanderlust. Jackie is a veteran of multiple fields — including working as a pioneering female sportswriter, accomplished PR executive, and marketing strategist. She champions the idea that turning your avocation into a vocation isn't just possible; it may be the most direct and rewarding path to success. This week, Jackie reveals her blueprint for transforming personal passion into a robust income stream. She also shares insights on how to build a successful business from the ground up. Join Jackie as she travels the world of historic sites and entrepreneurial insights. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Jackie Lapin, The Historic TravelerPosted: June 23, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 48:38 Episode: 14.3 POPULAR EPISODES Living in the Year 1450 (Sort of), Douglas Squirrel Bridges the Tech-Nontech Divide From Classroom to Boardroom: How Teacher Maria Fraietta Turned a $50 Investment into a $34 Million Juggernaut Kickstarter's CTO Shares Strategies for Delivering Bad News with Clarity, Empathy, and Integrity

The Muses of Greek mythology were nine goddesses associated with the arts, sciences, and memory.They were the source of inspiration for artists, thinkers, poets, dancers, musicians, and philosophers. They were the goddesses of knowledge, embodying the wisdom and creative power found in poetry, songs, and myths.This is the point: a muse is never an actual woman.When a man chooses a flesh-and-blood woman to be his muse, she becomes the symbol of something deeper, wiser, and much more mysterious than herself.A muse is a point of access that puts a man in touch with his feminine side while allowing him to pretend that he does not have a feminine side.A muse is essentially the Jungian anima, the perfect woman who exists only in the imagination of a man.Just now, my muse whispered to me,“The reader will want to ask you, ‘What is a woman's muse?'”“What shall I tell them?”“Tell them to ask a woman,” she said.In his book, The Magic Synthesis, Silvano Arieti writes,“Creative products are always shiny and new; the creative process is ancient and unchanging.”Arieti believed that perception is not just binary, with logic on the left side and pattern recognition on the right. He believed that our minds can blend rational with irrational, sophisticated with primitive, conscious with subconscious to create a third type of perception known as “creativity.”Psychology Today begins their praise of Arieti with this paragraph:“Silvano Arieti's book Interpretation of Schizophrenia was awarded the 1975 U.S. National Book Award in the Science category. More than 40 years later, it remains the most significant contribution to the psychological understanding of schizophrenia since Kraepelin and Bleuler. Contemporary psychiatrists and psychotherapists would be wise to review Arieti's vast contributions to the field.”Silvano Arieti was born in 1914. When he died in 1981, Arieti was perhaps the world's foremost authority on schizophrenia. He wrote an award-winning book about it.The other book he wrote was about creativity.Coincidence? Perhaps. But I am convinced that creativity is a mild form of schizophrenia. How else would you describe a marvelous blend of rational with irrational, sophisticated with primitive, conscious with subconscious?Creativity is a wild and spontaneous act employed by artists, thinkers, poets, dancers, musicians, and philosophers. It is that conflicted insanity to which our Muses give us access.I think that “mild schizophrenia” is the perfect description.But perhaps I am wrong.Roy H. WilliamsToday's rabbit hole is as wacky as today's memo. You should check it out. I'm Indy Beagle.Steven Gaffney's client list reads like a “Who's Who of America's Best Corporations.” His clients include including Allstate, Amazon, American Express, Best Buy, Booz Allen Hamilton, and BP. And those are just the “A”s and “B”s. Steven Gaffney builds high-achieving teams that set brave goals and then exceed them. In this week's amazing conversation with roving reporter Rotbart, Steven Gaffney shares big-picture insights and detailed actions that will help any business improve their results over the next 30 days. Get your running shoes on, because the race is about to begin at MondayMorningRadio.com

The client list of corporations that Steven Gaffney and his colleagues at the Steven Gaffney Company have consulted reads like a Who's Who of America's best corporations, including Allstate, Amazon, American Express, Best Buy, Booz Allen, and BP.  And those are just some of the “A”s and “B”s on the roster. Steven's expertise lies in building consistently high-achieving teams and organizations that set goals, overcome obstacles, and achieve their desired results. The founder and CEO of the eponymous consultancy, he asserts that honest communication and the right mindset will overcome most business maladies. His latest book, Unconditional Power: Thriving in Any Situation, No Matter How Frustrating, Complex, or Unpredictable, offers actionable methods to empower executives and entrepreneurs to maintain a resilient state even in the face of adversity.  It is achievement, not performance, that counts in the long term, Steven counsels. While performance covers behavior and effort, achievement is about outcomes. There's much to learn in this week's not-to-miss conversation with Steven, including what any business can do over the next 30 days to progress on the path to greater achievement. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Steven Gaffney, Steven Gaffney CompanyPosted: June 16, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 41:40 Episode: 14.2 RELATED EPISODES: Setting Business Goals and Scoring Them No Matter the Circumstances, Resilience is a Muscle Anyone Can Develop Take it from a Man Who Rowed Across the Atlantic Ocean, You Can Achieve “Impossible” Goals

The Muses of Greek mythology were nine goddesses associated with the arts, sciences, and memory.They were the source of inspiration for artists, thinkers, poets, dancers, musicians, and philosophers. They were the goddesses of knowledge, embodying the wisdom and creative power found in poetry, songs, and myths.This is the point: a muse is never an actual woman.When a man chooses a flesh-and-blood woman to be his muse, she becomes the symbol of something deeper, wiser, and much more mysterious than herself.A muse is a point of access that puts a man in touch with his feminine side while allowing him to pretend that he does not have a feminine side.A muse is essentially the Jungian anima, the perfect woman who exists only in the imagination of a man.Just now, my muse whispered to me,“The reader will want to ask you, ‘What is a woman's muse?'”“What shall I tell them?”“Tell them to ask a woman,” she said.In his book, The Magic Synthesis, Silvano Arieti writes,“Creative products are always shiny and new; the creative process is ancient and unchanging.”Arieti believed that perception is not just binary, with logic on the left side and pattern recognition on the right. He believed that our minds can blend rational with irrational, sophisticated with primitive, conscious with subconscious to create a third type of perception known as “creativity.”Psychology Today begins their praise of Arieti with this paragraph:“Silvano Arieti's book Interpretation of Schizophrenia was awarded the 1975 U.S. National Book Award in the Science category. More than 40 years later, it remains the most significant contribution to the psychological understanding of schizophrenia since Kraepelin and Bleuler. Contemporary psychiatrists and psychotherapists would be wise to review Arieti's vast contributions to the field.”Silvano Arieti was born in 1914. When he died in 1981, Arieti was perhaps the world's foremost authority on schizophrenia. He wrote an award-winning book about it.The other book he wrote was about creativity.Coincidence? Perhaps. But I am convinced that creativity is a mild form of schizophrenia. How else would you describe a marvelous blend of rational with irrational, sophisticated with primitive, conscious with subconscious?Creativity is a wild and spontaneous act employed by artists, thinkers, poets, dancers, musicians, and philosophers. It is that conflicted insanity to which our Muses give us access.I think that “mild schizophrenia” is the perfect description.But perhaps I am wrong.Roy H. WilliamsToday's rabbit hole is as wacky as today's memo. You should check it out. I'm Indy Beagle.Steven Gaffney's client list reads like a “Who's Who of America's Best Corporations.” His clients include including Allstate, Amazon, American Express, Best Buy, Booz Allen Hamilton, and BP. And those are just the “A”s and “B”s. Steven Gaffney builds high-achieving teams that set brave goals and then exceed them. In this week's amazing conversation with roving reporter Rotbart, Steven Gaffney shares big-picture insights and detailed actions that will help any business improve their results over the next 30 days. Get your running shoes on, because the race is about to begin at MondayMorningRadio.com

[With this episode, we launch our 14th year delivering weekly All You Can Eat Business Wisdom. That's more than 650 episodes — and we're on the verge of celebrating our one-millionth download.] In two words, Johnny Molson distills what it takes for a business to soar above the ordinary in its advertising and marketing campaigns to attract and keep lifelong customers. Johnny is one of the elite global Wizard of Ads partners. Building on the groundbreaking strategies developed by the legendary Roy H. Williams, he and his fellow Wizards work individually and collectively to help businesses craft powerful brand identities and turbocharge their results. At the heart of Johnny's method, he explains, is a sharp distinction: the difference between messaging that drives immediate sales and short-term gain — and marketing that builds and sustains long-term customer loyalty and cascading profitability. He also unpacks the proven “60/40 Rule” for marketing budgets and shares why repetition — not reach — is the real key to being remembered. So, what's Johnny's two-word magic formula for a steller campaign? Discover the answer as this week's episode of Monday Morning Radio takes a deep dive into his proven approach. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Johnny Molson, Wizard of AdsPosted: June 9, 2025Monday Morning Run Time: 53:20 Episode: 14.1 RELATED EPISODES: Two Living Legends of Marketing Offer You Actionable Tips for Success Trash-Talking Brian Scudamore Offers Many Pearls of Business Wisdom The UnBusiness Story Behind Chapel Dulcinea  

Are the tradeoffs that highly successful executives make — prioritizing wealth and recognition over family and a more grounded life — truly worth it? That's the central question that prompted Butch Meily to write From Manila to Wall Street, a memoir reflecting on his time nearly 40 years ago as a close aide to the brilliant but often brash Reginald F. Lewis, the first African-American to build a billion-dollar company. Lewis was a trailblazing businessman and investor who, in the 1980s, bulldozed through racial barriers. Financier and philanthropist Michael Milken described him as “the Jackie Robinson of American business.” Although Lewis died of a brain tumor at age 50 in 1993, the actionable insights gleaned from Lewis's business life remain relevant to this day, chief among them his motto: “Keep going no matter what.” Lewis reached extraordinary heights, bringing Meily along with him. Nevertheless, the lives of both men serve as a cautionary tale of the price each paid for their achievements. Their enduring legacy: build boldly, lead wisely — but never forget to live. [A native of the Philippines, Meily currently serves as president of the Philippine Disaster Resilience Foundation, a private-sector disaster management organization. Earlier in his career, he worked in public relations for both Burson-Marsteller and Howard J. Rubenstein Associates.] Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Rene S. “Butch” Meily, From Manila to Wall StreetPosted: June 2, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 47:30 Episode: 13.48 Pick up a copy of All You Can Eat Business Wisdom for yourself Fun, well organized, and brimming with useful information, this is a book that some will want to read cover-to-cover and others will treat as a reference book to look up subjects as needed; either way, it's a delight.  — Kirkus Reviews

Like father, like son, entrepreneur Rob Kessler is a talented and ambitious business owner. His company, goTIELESS, has just passed a dozen years of marketing a brand of shirts with proprietary inserts [Million Dollar Collar] designed to be worn without ties. Rob is the son of Richard Kessler, who for 35 years reigned as the diamond engagement ring “King” in Wisconsin and was one of the very first guests this podcast showcased when it launched in June 2012. Among the insights you'll hear listening to Rob are: Adapt or die Bet on yourself Start lean Serve obsessively Rob's path has been different than his dad's. You might say he's still a diamond in the rough. Yet Rob's experience, as he shares this week, offers a study in entrepreneurial persistence, innovation, and market adaptation. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Rob Kessler, goTIELESSPosted: May 26, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 42:53 Episode: 13.47 POPULAR EPISODES: Kickstarter's CTO Shares Strategies for Delivering Bad News with Clarity, Empathy, and Integrity Want the Recipe for Business Success? How About Asking Michelin-Starred and James Beard Award-Winning Chefs? Special Edition: Unveiling the Untold Story of Bernie Madoff, History's Greatest Fraudster

After more than 15 years as an executive at Meta, eBay, and Target, Anya Cheng set out to launch her own venture, Taelor. Her company uses artificial intelligence and personalized styling to rent clothing to men who dislike shopping, but need to look put-together for professional and social occasions. As she candidly shares this week, her two-year-old company has encountered a full buffet of challenges — from limited resources, both financial and human, to the steep personal transition of relying entirely on her own judgment. Drawing from her successes and missteps, Anya offers ten actionable recommendations that every new and most established businesses should heed. Be sure to have a tablet or pen available to take notes. Above all else, Anya's journey underscores the grit and adaptability required to build and maintain a new business in today's startup landscape. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Anya Cheng, Taelor Posted: May 19, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 47:07 Episode: 13.46 POPULAR EPISODES: Founder Mike Frick and His Family-Owned Company Embody All-American Values Lessons in Branding, Scaling, Adaptability, and International Relationship-Building Gigi Meier Reinvented Herself After Three Decades in the Banking World and is Loving It

Business owners and entrepreneurs who mess up royally might take cold comfort in Al Lewis's Substack, BusinessBlunders.com, which regularly details the boneheaded choices and outright illegal antics of a rogues gallery of today's and yesteryear's CEOs and senior executives. For most readers, Al's independent newsletter is an opportunity to learn from other people's mistakes, which is, as he puts it, “is a lot less costly than learning from your own.” Among his recent posts is an article titled Lost In Love: Top CEOs who kissed away their jobs, featuring, among others, Kohl's CEO Ashley Buchanan, BP CEO Bernard Looney, and McDonald's CEO Steve Easterbrook. Al is a veteran journalist and editor, having served as business editor of the Houston Chronicle and The Denver Post, and Markets Editor at CNBC. You won't want to miss this episode. Doing so would be a business blunder of the first order. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Al Lewis, BusinessBlunders.comPosted: May 12, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 50:25 Episode: 13.45 RELATED EPISODES: It Is Our Struggles, More Than Our Successes, That Forge Great Leaders and Entrepreneurs When He Teaches Others How to Bounce Back From ‘Rock Bottom,' Rob Lohman Has Walked the Talk Inventors Are a Hearty Lot – Failure is Not a Disincentive

Can a timber-framed cottage built in tiny Frogholt, England, in 1450 and its current occupant and owner teach 21st-century business executives and entrepreneurs valuable insights about leadership and collaboration? Absolutely. Douglas Squirrel, who goes by the mononym “Squirrel,” is a multi-decade technology trailblazer and business scale-up expert. He uses his home, Old Kent Cottage, which required extensive restoration help from plumbers, electricians, structural engineers, and thatchers, as a practical business case study in managing complexity and as a metaphor for demonstrating that those with diverse skills must collaborate harmoniously or risk structural failure.   As Squirrel explains, if the many artisans who worked on Old Kent Cottage hadn't communicated and worked together closely, the roof would have fallen in.  It's the same, he says, with every business. Squirrel is a proponent of using the human power of conversation to build effective, high-performing teams that lead to “insane” profits. Along with Jeffrey Fredrick, he wrote a seminal book on the topic, Agile Conversations: Transform Your Conversations, Transform Your Culture. Squirrel is also the author of Squirrel's Tech Radar, which is available from Amazon UK. “You should be really curious about technology all the time, because there's nothing else that's moving as fast and that is changing the landscape of your business as quickly as the technological innovations,” he says.  Squirrel chairs the Squirrel Squadron, a free-to-join global online community of diverse technical and non-technical executives who learn from one another. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Douglas Squirrel, Squirrel Squadron Posted: May 5, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 57:10 Episode: 13.44

“If we train our children only to harvest, who will plant the seed?”I wrote those words after contemplating the short-sightedness of so-called, “performance marketing,” on March 11, 2010.“Performance marketing” is the new name for direct response advertising. It works best when it extracts the value from a well-known brand. Its objective is to bring in a lot of money quickly.That is why business owners are attracted to it.But here's the caveat: value cannot be extracted from a brand unless it has first been created. You cannot squeeze a good reputation dry unless you first build a good reputation.Do you see the problem? When you have finally squeezed the last ounce of value from a good reputation, you don't have a good reputation anymore.As I was contemplating that last line I just wrote, the words “extraction of value” popped into my mind. I typed those words into the Google search bar. The AI Overview that appeared at the top of the page whispered to me in a conspiratorial tone: “‘The extraction of value' refers to the process of capturing or appropriating value from other stakeholders, often through exploiting a monopoly or manipulating competitive market processes, rather than creating new value.” – WIKIPEDIAThe eight words that leaped out of the paragraph were, “exploiting… or manipulating… rather than creating new value.”Do you remember that famous scene in the movie There Will Be Blood when Daniel says to Eli,“If you have a milkshake, and I have a milkshake, and I have a straw… There it is. that's the straw, you see? Watch it. Now my straw reaches acroooooooss the room and starts to drink your milkshake. I… drink… your… milkshake! I drink it up!”That is the voice of performance marketing.The healthy alternative to performance marketing is sales activation within a relational ad campaign.Sales activation is like shearing the wool from a sheep. You can do it again and again and the creature is never diminished by it.Performance marketing is like slaughtering that poor sheep, piece by piece. It is painful, and there is nothing left when you are done.I apologize for putting that horrible image into your mind, but we are talking about your business.I'm sorry if I stepped over the line.Roy H. WilliamsYou will find 4 examples of what the wizard calls “sales activation within a relational ad campaign” on the first page of the rabbit hole. I can hear what you are thinking right now. And to that, I say, “You're welcome.” – Indy BeagleRoving reporter Rotbart will be away on a secret mission in Italy for the next two weeks. He didn't tell us exactly what it was, but here are our top 3 guesses. One: He is studying the original manuscripts of Leonardo Da Vinci for a special series of investigative reports to be aired on PBS this autumn. Two: The roving reporter was invited to the Vatican to meet with the Pope. Three: There is no secret mission. He is just eating gelato at a seaside cafe with his lovely wife, Talya, while gazing at the beautiful Mediterranean Sea. We will update you next week when we know more. – Ian Rogers

Michael Drew is an expert at transforming big ideas into influence and income. An evangelist for powerful communication, Michael helps clients express their messages in the most compelling, persuasive, and distinctive ways possible. His favorite vehicle? Books. Since 2003, Mike and his book promotion firm, Promote A Book, have guided more than 130 titles onto major bestseller lists — including The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal. Moreover, Mike's methods aren't just for seasoned authors. He helps business owners, entrepreneurs, and professionals write and publish books to fast-track their goals — from raising capital and commanding higher speaking fees to standing out in a noisy market. Another of Mike's companies, BookRetreat.com, offers an immersive, month-long program held in Guatemala that teaches his proprietary process to produce a complete first draft of a book by the end of the retreat. Do you have big, original ideas in need of a megaphone? If so, be sure to hear the actionable insights that Michael Drew shares this week. You can hear a special Monday Morning Radio bonus audio featuring founding host Dean Rotbart and guest Michael Drew discussing the surprising way The New York Times bestsellers list is compiled. It's not how most people think. The free bonus audio is available now at tinyurl.com/MMRDrewBonus.  Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Michael Drew, Promote A Book Posted: April 7, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 44:19 Episode: 13.43 RELATED EPISODES: Insights for Authors, Would-Be Authors, and Readers from Bard Press's Todd Sattersten Ray Bard's New Book is Intended to Help Salespeople; But Don't Be Fooled Jay Papasan, Co-Author of “The One Thing,” on How to Accomplish More by Doing Less

Magical Thinking is often misunderstood.Jason Segel plays a psychologist in the Apple + TV show, “Shrinking.” He is talking to a patient with Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder.He looks at her. “This again?” She is holding her breath. He says, “You looked at the clock and now you have to hold your breath until the minute changes?” Holding her breath, she nods her head. He says, “Look, I know you feel like this compulsion is gonna help keep bad things from happening, but that's called magical thinking.”Medical News Today says, “Magical thinking means that a person believes their thoughts, feelings, or rituals can influence events in the material world, either intentionally or unintentionally.”But the summary of that article says, “This type of thinking does not always cause harm. In fact, it can have benefits.”The benefits of magical thinking are – according to me – exquisite.Magical thinking is the least destructive way to escape reality. When you compare it to alcohol, gambling, drugs, or adrenaline-producing dangerous behaviors, magical thinking is about as dangerous as eating raw cookie dough.Magical thinking is a requirement when you are:looking forward to a vacation, a wedding, or other happy event. Every time you imagine the future, you are visiting a world that does not exist.enjoying a television series, a movie, a novel, a poem, a song, a cartoon, or any other type of fiction. Half of your brain knows these things never happened, but the other half of your brain doesn't care.being persuaded by a well-written bit of advertising.Life is happier when it's less cluttered.Your house will be bigger.Your teeth will be whiter.Angels will sing.You'll be a better dancer.Go to 1800GOTJUNK.comAnd prepare to be amazed.Words create realities in the mind.Magical realism is a type of writing characterized by elements of the fantastic – woven with a deadpan sense of presentation – into an otherwise true story.If you exaggerate, people won't trust you. But if you say something so impossible that it cannot possibly be true, people will be delighted by the possibility you popped into their mind.SARAH: When your home feels clean and happy, the people inside feel clean and happy.BRIAN: I've got a partner who lives down the street from you and we're anxious to bring you a truckload of SPRINGTIME. [sfx magic sparkle]SARAH: You don't have to lift a finger!Predictability is the silent assassin of advertising.Magical realism focuses the imagination, disarms the assassin, and delights the mind.BRIAN: We make junk disappear. [sfx magic sparkle]SARAH: All you have to do is point.Magical thinking is good for your soul.Magical realism is good for your business.Don't let anyone tell you otherwise.Roy H. WilliamsThe reinvention of Gigi Meier is nothing short of remarkable. After three decades at the boardroom level of a multi-billion-dollar bank, Gigi reinvented herself as a romance writer. Gigi has published 16 books, some quite steamy, across three ongoing series. Did Gigi to draw on her extensive banking experience to fuel her publishing success? No! She tells roving reporter Rotbart that the opposite is true! Gigi has discovered valuable insights as a romance publisher that would have been useful during her banking career! No one has guests as interesting as roving reporter Rotbart. Am I right! This party will get started the moment you arrive...

When it comes to late-career transitions, Gigi Meier's reinvention is nothing short of remarkable. After three decades in banking — reaching the boardroom level of a multi-billion-dollar Texas institution — Gigi has reinvented herself as a successful romance writer. She has self-published 16 books, some quite steamy, across three ongoing series.  The cover of her books — not for every taste — typically feature a shirtless, ripped stud and a one-word title: Paolo, or Hamilton, or Giovanni. One of Gigi's best-selling books is her first, Tomlin, the tale of a small-town romance between a foul-mouth car restorer and a determined Judo Olympian who refuses to take no for an answer. While you might expect Gigi to draw on her extensive banking experience to fuel her publishing success, as she explains on this week's episode, she's discovered valuable insights as a romance publisher that would have been useful during her banking career — and they offer actionable lessons for any business or entrepreneurial venture. Whether or not you're a fan of romance novels, you'll want to cozy up to this week's podcast for some sexy business ideas. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Gigi Meier, Author Posted: March 31, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 42:18 Episode: 13.42 RELATED EPISODES: Bestselling Author Joanne Lipman Shares Her Formula for Professional and Personal Reinvention These ‘Master Mentors' Can Transform Your Life and Career With Their Nuggets of Wisdom Shift Happens: We Can't Control Our Personal or Business Misfortunes

At first, Maria Fraietta considered naming her organizing system the “death box.” After all, the idea for her product arose after her father passed away in January 2021, leaving Maria and her brothers to sort through their dad's scattered files, financial accounts, bills, titles, and possessions. Eventually, Maria landed on calling her kits Nokbox — N.O.K. box — for Next of Kin. Her vision was to save others priceless hours of frustration trying to piece together the puzzle of their deceased loved one's accounts and possessions. A high school teacher when she began, Maria invested just $50 to launch her company and ran the business from her living room with help from family and friends. Less than four years later, Maria's company has grown into a $34 million-a-year success story.  Your homework this week is to learn valuable lessons from a teacher-turned-business-owner on this week's episode. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Maria Fraietta, NokboxPosted: March 24, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 43:28 Episode: 13.41 RELATED EPISODES: School Teacher Turned Entrepreneur Collars Celebrities and Their Canines Timolin Langin Teaches How to Live Like a Millionaire…On Any Budget Farm-Fresh Business Insights From Charlotte, Wilbur, and Georgia Lininger

One of 2024's most popular episodes of Monday Morning Radio featured Australian author and illustrator Andrew Matthews, who, along with his wife, Julie, has built a publishing empire that has sold more than 8 million global copies of his inspirational books about happiness and resilience. Last time, Andrew focused on the uplifting messages his books convey. On this, his second appearance from Queensland, Andrew pulls back the curtain on the persistence, relationship-building, adaptability, and strategic growth that have rocket-fueled his and Julie's global business success.  Andrew and Julie's methods offer a roadmap that anyone looking to propel their business to a higher orbit can utilize. [Hear Andrew Matthews's First Appearance on Monday Morning Radio] Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Andrew Matthews Posted: March 17, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 44:44 Episode: 13.40 BOOKS BY ANDREW MATTHEWS INCLUDE: Bouncing Back!: How You Rebound From Disappointment and Disaster  Follow Your Heart Being Happy How Life Works But I Said I'm Sorry by Talya Rotbart, has been honored as a Book Excellence Award finalist. It is available to share with the children in your life for only $11.10 from Amazon.

Robert L. Dilenschneider, founder and principal of The Dilenschneider Group, is well known as a venerated strategic communications advisor and counselor to many of the world's most influential business and political leaders. Bob's extensive knowledge as a historian is less commonly known, especially one who can look to the past to identify role models whose lives are worth emulating today and in the future. Following on the heels of his two most recent history-focused books — Decisions: Practical Advice from 23 Men and Women Who Shaped the World and Nailing It: How History's Awesome Twentysomethings Got It Together — Bob's latest volume, available to pre-order now, is Character: Life Lessons in Courage, Integrity, and Leadership. Courage profiles a diverse group of 31 historical figures who drove society to be the best it could be. Among the disparate luminaries are Lou Gehrig, Winston Churchill, Julia Child, Dwight D. Eisenhower, Stephen Hawking, Margaret Chase Smith, Bill Russell, Jimmy Stewart, and S.P. Hinduja. Bob views character as a vital ingredient for success in public and private life. “From a respected older generation of mentors comes invaluable advice and hopeful direction for the young leaders, innovators, and influencers of tomorrow,” Bob writes in describing his book, which officially goes on sale March 25th. As co-host Maxwell Rotbart notes in introducing this week's podcast, Bob left one person out of Character. Himself. He, too, epitomizes courage, integrity, and leadership. [NOTE: The actionable insights of Robert L. Dilenschneider are featured in Maxwell Rotbart's award-winning anthology, All You Can Eat Business Wisdom. A free unabridged copy of Bob's chapter can be read here.] The Dilenschneider “Library” of 23 Books Includes: Character: Life Lessons in Courage, Integrity, and Leadership Decisions: Practical Advice from 23 Men and Women Who Shaped the World  Nailing It: How History's Awesome Twentysomethings Got It Together  The Ultimate Guide to Power & Influence: Everything You Need to Know The Public Relations Handbook 50 Plus!: Critical Career Decisions for the Rest of Your Life Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Robert L. Dilenschneider, The Dilenschneider Group Posted: March 10, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 43:30 Episode: 13.39 Pick up a copy of All You Can Eat Business Wisdom for yourself Fun, well organized, and brimming with useful information, this is a book that some will want to read cover-to-cover and others will treat as a reference book to look up subjects as needed; either way, it's a delight.  — Kirkus Reviews

Twenty-four thousand men were crowded into Knockaloe Interment Camp in 1914 because they had been found guilty of being in the wrong place, at the wrong time, with the wrong last name.Tightly confined behind barbed wire, those men grew increasingly weak, feeble, stiff and awkward until a man named Joseph was shoved through their gate on September 12, 1915.He gave his fellow prisoners strength, stamina, flexibility and grace.They never forgot him.When the war was over and those men were released, Joseph boarded a ship for America. While onboard that ship, he fell in love with a woman named Clara who was also headed to America. When they arrived in New York, Joseph and Clara opened a studio on 8th street that would send ripples across the world.The rest of this story is about how those ripples became a wave.George Balanchine sent his ballet dancers to Joseph on 8th street to gain strength, stamina, flexibility and grace.Martha Graham sent her modern dancers to Joseph on 8th street to gain strength, stamina, flexibility and grace.The best dancers on Broadway went to Joseph on 8th Street to gain strength, stamina, flexibility and grace.George Balanchine became known as “The Father of Modern Ballet.”Martha Graham is shown in Apple's famous “Think Different” video as one of the 17 people that Steve Jobs felt had changed the world.Broadway, Ballet, and Modern Dance were lifted to new heights.When those ripples from 8th Street reached California, the “Golden Age of Hollywood” began.Gene Kelley danced with a light post and sang in the rain to the thundering applause of America.Slim, elegant, and incredibly strong, Fred Astaire did impossible things effortlessly.Ginger Rodgers did exactly what Fred did, but backwards and in high heels.A young man was known for his slogan, “Float like a butterfly, sting like a bee.” He brought strength, stamina, flexibility and grace to the world of boxing.Like Martha Graham, this young boxer was chosen to appear in Apple's famous “Think Different” video as one of the 17 “crazy ones” who changed the world.He had been the heavyweight champion of the world for 5 years when a 10-year-old boy named Michael elevated dancing to an even higher place with the help of his 4 older brothers. Those 8th Street ripples of strength, stamina, flexibility and grace had splashed back from the California coast and were now rippling through Motown.Charles Atlas and Joseph Pilates were born one year apart and lived an almost identical lifespan.Charles Atlas gave men bulging biceps that other people could admire.Joseph Pilates told us how to gain the strength, stamina, flexibility, and grace to do whatever we want to do.What do you want to do?– Roy H. WilliamsPS – Joseph loved Clara until the day he died.Are your employees happy to follow you, or do they avoid you like a skunk at a garden party? Phillip Wilson says the more accessible you are as a leader, the more your business will thrive. But when leaders create a gap between themselves and their employees, they lose top talent and nudge workers toward unionization. Listen in as the famous Phillip Wilson explains to roving reporter Rotbart why “Approachable Leadership” is the only elevator that can lift employee morale, productivity, and retention. The button has been pressed and this elevator is about to up-up-up! But we're holding the door open for you, hoping that you'll join us at MondayMorningRadio.com

Are you the kind of boss employees want to follow — or the one they desperately avoid? Phillip B. Wilson, our guest this week, is a nationally recognized expert in leadership, labor relations, and fostering positive workplaces. As CEO and General Counsel of LRI Consulting Services, Wilson champions what he calls “Approachable Leadership.” His philosophy is simple: The more accessible and down-to-earth executives and frontline supervisors are, the more their businesses will thrive. Conversely, when leaders create a wide power gap between themselves and their employees, they risk driving away top talent or pushing workers toward unionization. Get an advanced look into Phil's upcoming book, The Leader-Shift Playbook (available now to preorder from Amazon), and hear why he believes that even the most unapproachable bosses can be transformed. You can't afford to miss this episode if you lead a team — whether you're a frontline manager, a C-Suite executive, or the owner of a business. BREAKING NEWS: On February 27th, HR Acuity, the enterprise leader in case management and investigations software, announced the partnership between its empowER™ community and Labor Relations Institute Consulting Services (LRICS) to launch a new professional segment specifically focused on labor relations. (Read the news release here.) Books by Phillip B. Wilson: The Leader-Shift Playbook The Approachability Playbook Left of Boom Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Phillip B. Wilson, LRI Consulting ServicesPosted: March 3, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 57:28 Episode: 13.38 Pick up a copy of All You Can Eat Business Wisdom for yourself Fun, well organized, and brimming with useful information, this is a book that some will want to read cover-to-cover and others will treat as a reference book to look up subjects as needed; either way, it's a delight.  — Kirkus Reviews

“We're in the news business,” Dick Grove insists, “Not the PR business." His reasoning is straightforward: Individuals and companies must think like journalists, not self-promoters, to earn media coverage. Dick is the founder, chairman, and CEO of Inkinc Public Relations and author of the quasi tell-all, It's the Media Stupid! pr without the bs.  For more than five decades, Dick has been at the forefront of the public relations industry. His media relations philosophy aligns closely with that of Monday Morning Radio founding host Dean Rotbart, whose courses at Wizard Academy — Newsroom Confidential, Buzz Snatching, and Reputation Tool Chest — all taught the necessity of understanding how journalists and news organizations think and operate. Before hiring a PR agency or pitching journalists and social media influencers yourself, hear firsthand from Dick and Dean what it truly takes to win the media's favor. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Dick Grove, Inkinc PRPosted: February 24, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 47:15 Episode: 13.37 RELATED EPISODES Host Dean Rotbart Shares Three Lessons on Ways to Work with Journalists and Other Influencers When You Want to Get the Media's Attention, Be a Source, Not a Salesperson The Inside Scoop on the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge and What Other Charities and Businesses Can Learn From It

“You're Fired!” Two words that are never easy to speak and are even harder to hear. Dismissing employees is complicated — legally, emotionally, and professionally. Mastering the art of letting employees go isn't taught in business school, and too many managers fumble the process. Mahesh Guruswamy, chief technology officer at Kickstarter, has spent much of his career delivering tough news — not just to employees but also to customers, investors, and even higher-ups. Now, he's sharing his hard-earned wisdom in a new book — How to Deliver Bad News and Get Away With It: A Manager Guide. Whether you're a seasoned executive or a first-time manager, Mahesh's insights will arm you with tools to handle difficult conversations while building trust, retaining talent, and, yes — keeping your sanity intact. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Mahesh Guruswami, How to Deliver Bad News and Get Away With ItPosted: February 17, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 52:16 Episode: 13.36 RELATED EPISODES: Lee Caraher on Business “Alumni” Networks and Boomerang Employees Discover the Power of Effective Communication to Support Career Advancement and Life Satisfaction Every Owner and Manager Needs to Have ‘The Revelation Conversation' With Their Employees

Israel Duran describes himself as an “impact architect,” helping successful business owners deliver turbocharged profits and coaching them to find a societal purpose beyond profits. Israel, founder of Israel Duran & Associates, has shown thousands of owners and CEOs how to transform their businesses and use their newfound achievements to impact, inspire, and influence their communities and beyond. Born out of personal adversity — his father died when he was still an infant — Israel shares how he has dedicated his career to showing others how to go beyond accumulating wealth to making a meaningful difference in the world. At the heart of his teachings is servant leadership. Israel champions the "Four Cs" of leadership: Consistency, Conviction, Charity, and Compassion. These principles aren't just theoretical; they're the foundation for his success and that of his clients. Books by Israel Duran: The Service of Speaking: How to Impact, Inspire, and Influence the Masses with Your Message Money Management Mindset: 7 Strategies to Financial Management Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Israel Duran, Israel Duran & AssociatesPosted: February 10, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 42:40 Episode: 13.35 RELATED EPISODES: ATLAS CHOKED: A Call for Purpose-Driven Workplaces It Is Our Struggles, More Than Our Successes, That Forge Great Leaders and Entrepreneurs Giving Meaning to Life's Misfortunes

I recently sent you two memos about our need for positive hope.“Hollywood's Broken Angel” was the true story of a woman who desperately needed a friend to encourage her.“Hope and a Future” explained how easy it is to recharge the emotional batteries of a friend whose light has dimmed.Positive hope crackles with the vibrant energy of life itself. It radiates honesty, openness, forgiveness, acceptance, optimism, loyalty and love.Positive hope illuminates the heart and drives away the darkness.But there is also such a thing as negative hope. It promises salvation but delivers only hubris, which is desperation disguised as confidence.Negative hope is attractive, addictive, and cruel.Gamblers sitting around a poker table are the perfect portrait of negative hope. They ride a rollercoaster of elation and despair but tell themselves they have a system.A second portrait of negative hope is a lottery ticket, a receipt issued by the government to citizens who pay a voluntary tax because they believe in lucky numbers and are extremely bad at math.Bernie Madoff was a salesman of negative hope. He wore the mask of a self-made billionaire, but behind that mask was a desperate little con man who stole money from innocent people who believed they had been admitted into the inner circle of a genius who had a secret system.The world is full of elegant and attractive people who sell negative hope. One of them will sell you a worthless education by promising you a better-paying job. Another will sell you a garage full of crap by convincing you of the miracle of multilevel marketing. A third will sell you the promise of inner peace by convincing you they have it, and that it can be transferred to you for money.Negative hope is attractive, but you can easily recognize it now that you know what to look for.I'm really glad we got that out of the way because now I've got some great news for you: inner peace is real.And here's some even better news: you can have it for free, no strings attached.Inner peace is honesty, openness, forgiveness, acceptance, optimism, loyalty and love. All of these can be yours for free. But first you have to give them away.It is a simple but fascinating system. The more you give these 7 things to others, the more richly they accumulate in you.Five hundred and eleven Christmases have come and gone since Giovanni Giocondo sent his Christmas letter to a friend in 1513. It said, “No peace lies in the future that is not hidden in this present little instant. Take peace!”Likewise, I say to you, inner peace is hidden in this present little instant.Reach out and take it. It's yours.Roy H. WilliamsWhen roving reporter Rotbart was a financial columnist with The Wall Street Journal, he met a young man named Steve Jobs who left a lasting impression on him. “When I spoke with Jason Schappert,” Rotbart says, “it felt like I was talking with Steve Jobs again.” Jason Schappert recently launched an AI-powered investment platform for middle-class consumers, providing the same insights and tools typically reserved for the ultra-rich. Today you have an opportunity to learn from Jason Schappert about how to identify opportunities, make bold decisions, and leverage your passion as roving reporter Rotbart meets with him at MondayMorningRadio.com

Jason Schappert reminds founding host Dean Rotbart of a young Steve Jobs, Apple's co-founder, who Dean met and wrote about when he was a financial columnist with The Wall Street Journal. Like Jobs, Jason is dynamic, a visionary, and at only 36 years old, well along the fast track to success. Jason and his wife, Magda, built an aviation education company, MzeroA, and sold it for an impressive 8-figure sum.  As an encore, the couple recently launched an AI-driven investment platform — Moola — directed at middle-class consumers, providing the same insights and tools typically reserved for the rich and ultra-rich.  Jason knows what it takes to build a business from scratch, scale it, and — when the time is right — exit profitably. Sit back and take notes as Jason offers a clinic on ways to leverage passion, identify opportunities, and make bold decisions. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Jason Shappert, Moola Posted: February 3, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 52:21 Episode: 13.34 RELATED EPISODES Former F-16 Fighter Jet Pilot Rob Shallenberger on Leadership Veteran Combat and Military Test Pilot Brett Vance's New Video Series Take it from a Man Who Rowed Across the Atlantic Ocean, You Can Achieve “Impossible” Goals

Fifty years ago, I was a teenager with an unreliable automobile. But that's never a problem for an Oklahoma boy who has knowledge, tools, and daylight.My knowledge and tools were always with me, but the daylight disappeared at the worst possible time, no matter how badly I needed it.Cell phones had not yet been invented.When the batteries in my flashlight died, nothing could be seen but the desperation, defeat, and despair of a boy at the side of the road trying to repair a car in the darkness.Any person who stopped to help me with a bright beam of light seemed like an angel sent from God.People who are lost, lonely and frightened are all around us but we seldom see them because fear, sadness, and despair look exactly like preoccupation, concentration, and distraction. This is how people in pain disappear into the scenery around us.But sometimes the beam of light within you will reveal a person directly in front of you who needs your help. Will you pass by on the other side of the road, or will you stop and share your light?I'm not just talking about random strangers. I'm talking about people whose names you know, people who are already in your life; coworkers, colleagues and employees who are walking with an invisible limp, people whose sunlight has receded below the horizon.You can shine some light into their darkness:Find a moment when it is just the two of you.Look at them and say their name.Say, “Do you know what I've always admired about you?”Describe specific moments that quietly impressed you.Tell them the truth about themselves. Remind them of who they are, and how much they matter, and why they belong.This is often all it takes to recharge a person's batteries and help them get their motor running again. When you shine your light into their heart, you elevate their hope and brighten their future.The mark of a strong leader who is deeply loved is that they lift up the people around them by speaking the encouraging truth into their lives, regardless of whether a person needs it or not.It is a gift that is always welcome.Roy H. Williams“Leadership is not a static trait but an evolving journey,” says Bob Kaplan, a high-level management expert with over three decades of experience. “Even ‘born leaders,' need training, desire, and experience to achieve real greatness,” he says, and then he adds, “The most challenging people to manage are always the leaders themselves.” Bob Kaplan believes CEOs and other C-suite executives should continually invite feedback — good and bad — and then concentrate on eliminating their shortcomings as they continually refine their skills. Hey! Do you want to run with the big dogs or stay on the porch? Roving reporter Rotbart says he will begin his interview of Bob Kaplan the moment you arrive at MondayMorningRadio.com. Aroo!

Are leaders born or made?  In this week's episode, Robert E. “Bob” Kaplan, co-founder of Kaplan DeVries and a pioneer in leadership development, tackles this age-old question.  With more than 30 years of experience helping executives and organizations thrive, Bob shares actionable insights into overcoming mental roadblocks, embracing feedback, and boosting self-confidence. Drawing from his latest book, Grappling: Leaders Striving to Improve, Bob illustrates how even high-performing leaders can unlock new levels of effectiveness.  Discover why leadership is as much about introspection and mental resilience as it is about technical skill.  Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode offers invaluable strategies to elevate your leadership game.  Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Bob Kaplan, Kaplan DevriesPosted: January 27, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 46:10  Episode: 13.33 Pick up a signed copy of All You Can Eat Business Wisdom for yourself Fun, well organized, and brimming with useful information, this is a book that some will want to read cover-to-cover and others will treat as a reference book to look up subjects as needed; either way, it's a delight.  — Kirkus Reviews

Her name was Lillian Millicent Entwistle, “Peg” to her friends. She was born in 1908.At the age of 19, Peg married Robert Keith, 10 years older than she. Then she discovered that he had been married before and had a 6 year-old son. The couple was soon divorced.“I'll move to a new place and get a new start,” she thought. “Goodbye, New York. Hello, L.A. I'm going to become an actress.”But hopes and dreams are fragile things and hearts are easily broken.At the age of 24 “She decided she'd failed,” says David Wallace, author of Hollywoodland. “She was very dejected and one day in 1932 she came up to the Hollywood sign, found a maintenance ladder by the ‘H,' climbed up to the top and presumably took one last look over the city she had failed to conquer, and jumped.”Her body was discovered two days later by a hiker.A handwritten note was found in her purse. “I am afraid I am a coward. I am sorry for everything. If I had done this a long time ago, it would have saved a lot of pain.”A letter arrived at her home on the same day her body was discovered. It was from The Beverly Hills Playhouse. They wanted her to star in their next production.Are you ready for this? It was to be a play about a young girl who loses all hope and commits suicide in the final act.Peg, if only you could've hung on. Things are never as bad as they seem. But now all we have left of you is a photograph and a note.Remember that 6-year-old son of Robert Keith you heard about in the second paragraph?That boy, Brian Keith, grew up to be a famous actor, best known for his role as “Uncle Bill” on the hit TV show, “Family Affair.” He also played the perfect Teddy Roosevelt opposite Sean Connery in “The Wind and the Lion,” (1975).I have seen that movie 14 times. Brian Keith made Teddy Roosevelt come alive for me.Brian Keith shot himself in 1997.Yes, hopes and dreams are fragile things and hearts are easily broken.Be gentle with the hearts that have been entrusted to you.Roy H. WilliamsMike Frick started a side hustle as a way to help his college-student son earn extra cash. Today that business sells its products nationwide to construction sites, quarries, farms, mines, and the US military. “Our products are simple, durable, and cost effective,” Mike tells roving reporter Rotbart. In spite of heavy competition from Chinese knock-offs, Mike and his company continue to thrive by manufacturing their products only in America. It's a story of focus, humility, and fantastic success. Because that's how we roll at MondayMorningRadio.com.

Mike Frick never intended to get into the business of selling specialized construction equipment, including rock screens, bedding boxes, and concrete washout tubs. But what started as a side hustle and a way to help his son earn extra cash while in college has turned into a thriving business with a large and diverse nationwide customer base, including construction sites, farms, quarries, mines, and the US military. Bear Iron Works, headquartered in Grand Junction, Colorado, features made-in-America products and embodies all-American values. A commitment to innovation is at the heart of Bear Iron Works' success. Mike's background in construction, ranching, and mining has shaped the company's product development. He combines practical experience with creative problem-solving to design equipment tailored to the needs of his clients. Mike's entrepreneurial journey is a reminder that successful business owners come in all varieties and serve many less-than-glamorous markets. But the keys to success remain consistent. Focus on quality Innovate continuously Be resilient in the face of setbacks Communicate and collaborate Plan for growth Bear Iron Works is poised for a bright future. With plans to expand its product line and reach new markets, the company is leveraging its reputation for quality and innovation to solidify its position in the industry. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Mike Frick, Bear Iron WorksPosted: January 20, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 35:46 Episode: 13.32 POPULAR EPISODES: The Most Effective Business Advice Doesn't Have to Be Complicated A Master Class from Michael Hershman, CEO of Soloviev Group, a Leader in Real Estate, Energy, Logistics, and Agribusiness Unveiling the Untold Story of Bernie Madoff, History's Greatest Fraudster

You don't have to be an author or would-be author to profit from the reputation-building insights our guest, W. Terry Whalin, shares on this week's episode. Among executives in the book publishing industry, Terry is a rock star. He alone has written more than 60 mainstream books, including a popular biography of Billy Graham.  Among Terry's most popular books is 10 Publishing Myths: Insights Every Author Needs to Succeed. Currently, Terry serves as acquisitions editor for Morgan James Publishing — a hybrid book publishing house — signing business owners and entrepreneurs as authors and coaching them. Founded in 2003, Morgan James became the first publisher to blend the strength, credibility, and distribution of traditional publishing with the flexibility, author involvement, and time to market of self-publishing. When it comes to the publishing industry, Terry has seen it all. This week, he shares the naked truths — good and bad — that all would-be authors must know before they sit down at their keyboards in pursuit of publishing profits and glory. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: W. Terry Whalin, Morgan James Publishing Posted: January 13, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 48:21 Episode: 13.31 RELATED EPISODES: Insights for Authors, Would-Be Authors, and Readers from Bard Press's Todd Sattersten Meet the Amazing Founder of FSB Associates, Successfully Promoting More Than 2,000 Books How Influence and Thought Leadership Are Manufactured in the Competitive Marketplace Schedule your free 30-minute reputation consultation with Monday Morning Radio founding host Dean Rotbart. https://tinyurl.com/ReputationToolChest

Many owners and entrepreneurs complain that overseeing their companies is like running a zoo. That's good news, says Terry Rich, who led the Blank Park Zoo in Des Moines from a $600,000 deficit to profitability. His keys to success centered on rethinking the visitor experience and introducing innovative events that attracted fresh customers. Building on his strong entrepreneurial background, Terry subsequently served as CEO of the Iowa Lottery, president of the North American Lottery Association, and a Powerball board member. Terry is the author of two blockbuster books: The $80 Billion Gamble and Dare to Dream, Dare to Act.  He is also an in-demand international keynote speaker. This week, Terry regales co-hosts Dean and Maxwell Rotbart with actionable business insights and colorful anecdotes, including recognizing the undiscovered value in elephant poop and how he cracked the largest lottery fraud in US history. [See Terry's appearance on The Tonight Show with Johnny Carson] Photo: Terry Rich, Rick Keynote Posted: January 6, 2025 Monday Morning Run Time: 51:53 Episode: 13.30 POPULAR EPISODES: It's Not Too Late To Push Limits and Tackle New Challenges Dean Guida Bootstrapped His Way to Building a Multinational Enterprise Software Company Discover the Power of Effective Communication to Support Career Advancement and Life Satisfaction

After 28 years as a cornerstone of Fox News and Fox Business, Neil Cavuto, 66, made headlines earlier this month with his unexpected resignation. Monday Morning Radio founding host Dean Rotbart has known Neil for the broadcast journalist's entire television career. In February 2020, just before the outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic, Dean conducted an exclusive oral history with him when Neil was honored by his peers with a prestigious Business News Visionary Award in recognition of the journalist's transformative contributions to the profession. This week, hear the first-ever airing of that interview and discover Neil's blueprint for success — timeless lessons in determination, adaptability, and excellence that everyone can apply. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at one of business journalism's most iconic figures. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Neil Cavuto Posted: December 30, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 28:13 Episode: 13.29 RELATED EPISODES: The “Editors-in-Chief” Series: Adi Ignatius, Harvard Business Review Meet Fast Company's Editor-in-Chief, Stephanie Mehta, Who Herself Breaks the Conventional Mold FORTUNE's Alan Murray Offers a Master Class in Business Strategy and Financial Journalism

This week, Hosts Dean and Maxwell Rotbart offer their annual holiday treat for Monday Morning Radio listeners: a reading of the inspirational adult Yuletide tale, A Christmas Day Miracle. The uplifting book tells the true story of one man on death's doorstep and his miraculous survival and recovery. It's a poignant reminder for people of all faiths of the wonder and power of life's unexpected blessings.  This is an exclusive once-a-year presentation you don't want to miss. A Christmas Day Miracle is available in a keepsake softcover edition on Amazon for only $9.75.  Posted: December 23, 2024Monday Morning Run Time: 1 Hour, 30 MinutesEpisode: 13.28 Other books from TJFR Press: But I Said I'm Sorry — A book for children 5-11 years old. Highly recommended by Dr. Laura Schlessinger The Boy Who Answered the Call of Kilimanjaro: The Adventures of Riyaz — Based on the true story of a Tanzanian boy who sets out on an adventure, walking with two schoolmates more than 600 miles from Dar es Salaam to Mt. Kilimanjaro. (Also available from Amazon in Spanish and French) All You Can Eat Business Wisdom: A Monday Morning Radio of Actionable Advice — Described by Kirkus Reviews as a well-mounted business self-help book that's actually helpful - and a good read, too. Perfectly Ordinary, Yet Extraordinary: Making a Meaningful Difference in the Lives of Others — An inspirational text designed to facilitate the undertaking of homegrown charitable projects. September Twelfth: An American Comeback Story — A thrilling and inspiring tale of journalistic dedication — Kirkus Reviews

Charles Rose is an unconventional business coach.  While most consultants focus on improving a company's mechanics — sales, marketing, human resources, and the like — his consultancy advises clients on the best ways to unload the personal baggage that limits their bottom line and personal satisfaction. A serial entrepreneur who built an e-commerce company and sold it for $10 million, Charles has since spent 20-plus years instructing CEOs, high-performing professionals, and entrepreneurs on ways to strike a productive balance between business success and life satisfaction. As he explains, on the path to business fulfillment, he explores every aspect of his clients' lives, including physical health, mental health, and personal relations.  Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Charles Rose, Transformation CoachingPosted: December 16, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 41:29 Episode: 13.27 OPPORTUNITIES OF INTEREST: Blaine Oelkers, America's only chief results officer (Monday Morning Radio 2/6/23), is offering powerful workshops to cap off 2024 and deliver super results in the new year. Selfluence: Your Power to Influence Yourself Blaine's TEDx Talk Dr. Laura Sicola (Monday Morning Radio 2/26/24) co-hosts Alpha Whisperers: Genesis, a podcast mini-series offering a behind-the-scenes examination of the dynamics of power, influence, and leadership. Apple Podcasts Amazon Music Spotify

With nearly 1.3 million followers on TikTok and a global fan base for his gospel music, David Griffiths' success story is a testament to the power of authenticity, consistency, audience engagement, and strategic planning.  Founder of Content Creating Academy, David is a powerhouse in the world of digital creation. His free webinars help business owners and entrepreneurs simplify the complexities of content creation and recognize the steps necessary to build an impressive social media following.  Blessed with a rich baritone voice, David is also an internationally celebrated Christian recording artist and educator. He has performed in front of crowds as large as 70,000 and penned more than 300 compositions. In 2009, he was named the International Singer-Songwriter Association's Christian Songwriter of the Year. David's coaching and music careers complement one another. Both have a similar mission: To bring positive change to the world. His journey is proof that with the right mindset and tools, anyone can foster meaningful connections that drive real-world results. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: David Griffiths, Content Creating AcademyPosted: December 9, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 56:23 Episode: 13.26 RELATED EPISODES: Hear the Fairytale-Esq Story of Dave Combs' “Rachel's Song” – and the Business Savvy That Propels It The Day the Music Died: Barry Fey Was the Ultimate ‘Unconventional' Entrepreneur Online Communities Trump Blogs for Generating Customer Engagement Schedule your free 30-minute reputation consultation with Monday Morning Radio founding host Dean Rotbart. https://tinyurl.com/ReputationToolChest  

John Steinbeck wrote a letter to Carlton Sheffield about a conversation he'd had with his wife, Elaine.“Once I said to her, ‘I don't want the barbarity of funeral for myself.' And she said, ‘Don't be silly. A funeral isn't for the dead. You'll simply be a stage set for a kind of festival, maybe. And besides, you won't even be there.'”– Steinbeck: A Life in Letters, p 829Henry Fonda – one of the most famous actors of his generation – stood up at John Steinbeck's funeral and recited a piece of a poem by Robert Louis Stevenson:Bright is the ring of wordsWhen the right man rings them,Fair the fall of songsWhen the singer sings them.Still they are carolled and said –On wings they are carried –After the singer is deadAnd the maker is buried.– Robert Louis StevensonWe know Henry Fonda spoke those words because Elaine Steinbeck, John's wife, describes the scene in a letter to her friend, Jean Vounder-Davis.What will people say when you are gone? Will memories of you ring like bells in the hearts you left behind?How will you be remembered?You cannot build a reputation on what you intend to do.The saddest eulogy ever carved on a tombstone said, “He Had Potential.”Will you be remembered for having a lot of money?“You can have money stacked to the ceiling, but the size of your funeral will still depend on the weather.” – Chuck TannerWill you be remembered as a selfish person, or a generous one?“We make a living by what we get. We make a life by what we give.” – Winston ChurchillI have never seen a hearse pulling a U-Haul trainer.“We brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry nothing out.” – Paul's letter to Timothy, ch. 6Will you be remembered as a critical person, or as an encourager?“People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” – Maya AngelouThere is nothing standing in the way of you being a different person today than you were yesterday. Do you remember what I wrote to you in last week's Monday Morning Memo?“Escaping the past is easy. The hard part is choosing to start over.”If we make the right decision, we'll have more to be thankful for next Thanksgiving than we did this year.Ciao for Niao,Roy H. WilliamsDouglas Katz is a West Point graduate, a disabled Army veteran, and a culinary enthusiast (also known as a foodie.) Douglas, like many other people who suffer from limited mobility, struggled to use kitchen utensils that require upper extremity strength. Aided by an army of friends and military veterans, Doug retreated to his workshop to invent a new type of kitchen knife, the first in a series of “adaptive” kitchen products he plans to introduce. Doug is building a cutting-edge company (pun intended) dedicated to radical innovation and inclusive kitchen design. It's happening and it's happening right now, with roving reporter Rotbart and you at MondayMorningRadio.com.

Douglas Katz is a West Point graduate, a disabled Army veteran, and a culinary enthusiast.  The problem for Doug was that, like millions of those who suffer from limited mobility, he struggled to use kitchen utensils that require upper extremity strength.  Aided by friends and other veterans, Doug took to his workshop to invent a new type of kitchen knife — the NULU knife — the first product in a series of “adaptive” gear he plans to introduce. Ergonomically made, the NULU blade is located beneath the handle, allowing users' shoulders, arms, and hands to remain neutral, reducing stress on their joints. NULU delivers a better cutting experience and makes cooking accessible for everyone. Doug is utilizing Kickstarter to crowdfund the NULU knife. If you'd like to see the NULU knife in action, visit the product's Kickstarter page at tinyurl.com/MMR-Knife. There are less than two weeks before Doug's Kickstarter campaign closes, so if you're looking for a great holiday gift for family and friends — or for yourself — the time to act is now.  Doug's story is an inspiring example of how innovation, perseverance, and purpose can drive entrepreneurial success. By addressing real-world problems, building a solid team, and staying committed to a greater purpose, Doug exemplifies the potential of entrepreneurship to change lives — not just for customers but for communities as well. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Douglas Katz, NULU KnivesPosted: December 2, 2024Monday Morning Run Time: 43:51Episode: 13.25 ARTICLES OF INTEREST BY DEAN ROTBART The Most Effective Business Advice Doesn't Have to Be Complicated I Want to “Unplug” From Online Purchases and Banking. Is It Possible? RELATED EPISODES Lessons in Effective Leadership Forged in the Crucible of War Black Rifle Coffee Hit the Bull's-eye Off They Go into the Wild Blue Entrepreneurial Yonder

The future is unknowable. The past is unrecoverable.If you are anxious, you are living in the future.Don't live your life in an imaginary tomorrow. Find joy while it is still today.If you are depressed, you are living in the past.Escaping the past is easy. The hard part is choosing to start over.Let me give you The Seven Secrets to Crystal Days:Do not let the perfect become the enemy of the good.“Perfectionism may look good in his shiny shoes but he's a little bit of an asshole and no one invites him to their pool parties.” – Ze FrankGood enough, by definition, is good enough.Learn to celebrate the ordinary.“Celebrate! Celebrate! Celebrate!” – Dewey JenkinsSuccess and failure are temporary conditions.“Do not let either of them define you.”The most precious thing you can find is a friend.“A friend is always loyal, a sibling that helps in times of trouble.”Hatred is the only luxury more costly than an enemy.“Hatred is like drinking poison and waiting for the other person to die.”All the little things in life add up to your life.“If you don't get it right, nothing else matters.”Autumn is upon us. Cold air sweeps summertime over the hilltop fast and sharp like an old woman sweeping dust out a doorway. The dust washes the landscape with brown and orange, speckled with rusty red, the colors of old cars whose enamel has been erased by the rain in the junkyard of time.I suspect Solomon wrote the book of Ecclesiastes in the autumn. You remember what he wrote, don't you?“Everything has its moment.There is a moment of ripening and a moment of falling away.A moment of being born and a moment of dying.A moment of planting and a moment of harvest.A moment of killing and a moment of healing.A moment of destroying and a moment of building.A moment of weeping and a moment of laughter.A moment of sorrow and a moment of dancing.A moment of scattering and a moment of gathering.A moment of togetherness and a moment of distance.A moment of finding and a moment of losing.A moments of grasping and a moment of release.A moment of ripping and a moment of sewing back together.A moment of silence and a moment of speech.A moment of love and a moment of hate.A moment of fighting and a moment of peace.”Autumn walks among us, quiet and invisible, like a Mexican ghost on the Day of the Dead.This is the time of year when I become reflective.Perhaps you do, too.Roy H. WilliamsAndrew Matthews has inspired more than 1,000 global corporations, including Coca-Cola, McDonald's, Honda, and Citibank. In addition to that, Andrew and his wife produce uplifting books that have sold over 8 million copies in 70 countries and 48 languages by presenting timeless wisdom in fresh, engaging ways. This week, Andrew reveals his creative process to roving reporter Rotbart and explains how anyone – even you – can use that process to connect, inspire, and succeed in every nation of the world. Wouldn't this be a great day to stop and recharge your batteries at MondayMorningRadio.com?

You can follow your heart, discover how life works, be happy, and bounce back from hard times. It's easier than you might imagine. Author and illustrator Andrew Matthews breaks it all down in his cheerful and insightful books, which have sold more than 8 million copies and inspired audiences at more than 1,000 international companies. Andrew's forte is presenting timeless wisdom in fresh, engaging ways. Each of his uplifting books is peppered with lovable, hand-drawn cartoons. Andrew is based in Queensland, Australia, where his wife Julie serves as his books' publisher. On this episode, Andrew shares invaluable lessons for businesses and individuals alike: Big things can happen to small, out-of-the-way businesses when they have inspired concepts. To succeed, a company doesn't have to be first to market. It can observe what's working and improve on it. There is a large, hungry appetite for simple solutions to complex problems. Whether it's finding resilience in setbacks, taking small steps to overcome big challenges, or packaging ideas in ways that resonate with customers, Andrew's lessons are universally applicable. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Andrew Matthews, Seashell PublishersPosted: November 25, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 46:53 Episode: 13.24 BOOKS BY ANDREW MATTHEWS INCLUDE: Bouncing Back!: How You Rebound From Disappointment and Disaster  Follow Your Heart Being Happy How Life Works THIS WEEK'S ARTICLES OF INTEREST BY DEAN ROTBART Nine Lessons to Prepare for the “Transaction of a Lifetime”: Insights from Renita Wolf on Exiting Your Business It's a Dirty Job, But Someone Has to Get Rich Doing It  

Renita Wolf is an expert on Exit Strategies. Renita and her firm, Poe Wolf Partners, are renowned for helping founders and mid-market CEOs build better businesses and exit on their terms. Before founding her firm, Renita spent 25 years holding senior financial and operation positions for companies including Wells Fargo, Hewlett-Packard, Agilent Technologies, and Cray Research. Whether business owners hope to execute what she describes as “the transaction of a lifetime” in a year, a decade, or even longer, there are concrete steps they should take now to maximize the value of their companies when the time arrives. Among the topics Renita covers this week are the ways to identify potential buyers for your business, significant tax considerations, and recognizing the best time to move on. As you are about to hear, preparing to sell a business is as much a journey as a destination. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: Renita Wolf, Poe Wolf PartnersPosted: November 18, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 43:41 Episode: 13.23 REGISTER FOR RENITA WOLF'S UPCOMING WEBINARS:  Exit Planning: Close the Value Gap (December 10, 2024) Exit Planning: Assemble Your Advisory Team (January 14, 2025) THIS WEEK'S ARTICLES OF INTEREST BY DEAN ROTBART I Want to “Unplug” From Online Purchases and Banking. Is It Possible? It's a Dirty Job, But Someone Has to Get Rich Doing It

Billy Sunday was born in 1862, the second year of America's Civil War. He died in 1935, during the Great Depression. Billy was a wildly flamboyant and controversial preacher, but he made an interesting observation:“More men fail through lack of purpose than lack of talent.”We'll talk more about purpose in just a minute, but first we need to talk about possibilities.I will say it plainly:What you see in the mirror isn't you.Look inside yourself and take inventory of what you find there.Realize that this is all you have to work with.Make the best of it.I will say it as Confucius might have said it:Gilded paper and bright ribbons adorn an empty vessel while gold hides in a rough wooden box.You will not find what is not there. But what lies inside you is easy to see.Everything within you is all that you have.Therefore, it must be enough.I will say it like an old warrior:Fancy uniforms don't win battles.It's not the size of the dog in the fight that matters, it's the size of fight in the dog.If you don't have it in you, it doesn't exist.Learn to use what you've got.This is how Yoda would have said it:Be invisible, you will.Inside yourself, you must look.Hmm. Flaws, you shall find.Magic, these are.I will say it as someone who loves you:You are the perfect you.No one else can be you as well as you can.You will be you for the rest of your life.It is time to discover what you can do.And now it is time to talk about purpose again.A sad voice inside you whispers: “Everyone talks about purpose, but no one can tell me what it is, or where to find it.”Quit listening to that whiner. Purpose is given to you by what you care about. Is there anything you care about?Of course there is.Are you ready for the real mind-blower?Purpose is given to you by everything you care about. You are overflowing with purpose. The problem is that you care about so many things that you are having a hard time choosing a purpose.Here is the good and happy news: You can have more than one purpose!In fact, you already do; and you have what it takes to make a difference.How many differences do you want to make?Pick two or three of them to get started. You can add other ones later, when you have taken these first ones as far as you choose to go. Sooner or later, you'll choose a few that will sink deep roots in you.Every oak tree begins as an acorn.Now go. Get started.Roy H. WilliamsPS – “It is better to burn the candle at both ends, and in the middle, too, than to put it away in the closet and let the mice eat it.” – Henry van DykeDavid Sauers used to be a commercial banker, but today he runs a service business with 50 branches nationwide. It's not the type of business that most people dream about owning. The nature of his business – and the powerful lessons you can learn from his success – will be revealed in this week's story. But here's an interesting twist: In a private note to Roy, roving reporter Rotbart wrote, “I love unusual guests and David Sauers definitely fits the bill.” The roving reporter is at it again! MondayMorningRadio.com

David Sauers is a successful entrepreneur from Savannah, Georgia, where he runs a service business with 50 nationwide branches. Formerly an executive in commercial banking and business lending, the company David co-founded is marking its 20th anniversary this year. David is the first to admit that his business is not the type that most people dream about owning — at first.  However, his emphasis on quality, consistency, community, and creativity provides a wealth of lessons for all business owners and entrepreneurs.   [Read this week's All You Can Eat Business Wisdom Second Helping, which offers six actionable insights here.]  In an homage to the panel game show that ran on CBS between 1950 and 1967, “What's My Line,” you'll have to listen to this week's episode to discover the uncommon service that David's company provides. Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo: David Sauers, Royal Restrooms Posted: November 11, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 41:27 Episode: 13.22 RELATED LINKS: All You Can Eat Business Wisdom signed first editions Book a Free 30-Minute, Reputation Consultation with Dean Rotbart Follow Reputation Tool Chest on X

This week, founding host Dean Rotbart, a Wizard Academy graduate who served many years on the Academy's faculty, shares the story of how a self-published children's book author garnered global media coverage, reaching more than 2 million potential customers in a single day and zooming more than 1 million spots to the top of the Amazon charts. The lessons to be gleaned by her success, Rotbart promises, can be applied by every business owner, entrepreneur, and author who'd like to attain blockbuster visibility without spending a dime on consultants, social media ads, or news releases. How did the author of the children's book do it? Well, it helps that she, too, is a Wizard Academy alumna and that Talya Rotbart is married to the self-anointed “Dean of Reputation.” Monday Morning Radio is hosted by the father-son duo of Dean and Maxwell Rotbart. Photo Collage: Talya Rotbart (top row right), Dr. Laura Schlessinger and Talya (bottom row left) Posted: November 4, 2024 Monday Morning Run Time: 31:59 Episode: 13.21 EPISODE LINKS: But I Said I'm Sorry by Talya Rotbart  Book a Free 30-Minute, Reputation Consultation with Dean Rotbart Hour One of the Dr. Laura Podcast for October 30, 2024 (Subscription Required) Follow Reputation Tool Chest on X