Podcasts about Scaling

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How does a virtue become a vice? How does a basic building block of life turn into a threat to life? And how do you turn that vice back into a virtue? In this half-hour we visit with two unlikely pathfinders who are helping to revolutionize farming. Calla Rose Ostrander and John Wick of the Marin Carbon Project are taking carbon out of the atmosphere and putting it back where it belongs: in the soil. In so doing, they're also revitalizing the soil, conserving water, and building agricultural resilience. Scaling up these revolutionary regenerative methods can offset the climate destabilization, which that threatens to confound agriculture and endanger our food supply. This is an episode of the Bioneers: Revolution from the Heart of Nature series. Visit the ⁠radio and podcast homepage⁠ to learn more.

Leadership transitions reveal what companies value most.When FTC Solar recently tapped Anthony Carroll as the new CEO, they chose someone who has spent more than two decades helping build some of clean energy's most recognizable companies. From helping scale Power Electronics from a small Spanish manufacturer into a global powerhouse, to leading Powin during a period of extraordinary growth, Anthony has experienced both the excitement and the hard lessons that come with building businesses in rapidly evolving markets.Now, after stepping away from the industry to lead automated manufacturing initiatives outside of energy, he's back with a new mandate: help guide FTC Solar through its next phase of growth.In this conversation, Anthony shares lessons from across his career, why this is the right next opportunity for him, and why he believes execution, trust, and innovation will determine which companies thrive in the years ahead.Expect to learn:

As enterprises move agentic AI from controlled pilots into production customer-facing workflows, the gaps in data continuity, governance, and human-agent coordination become the deciding factors in whether AI scales or stalls. In this episode, Shri Nandan, VP of AI Experiences at Comcast, examines why customer experience has become the real stress-test for enterprise AI — and what it takes to scale with customer trust intact. The conversation covers the three data foundations required for context continuity in production, practical principles for human-AI orchestration, and why cross-team governance — a single North Star across CX, IT, and operations — is what separates the organizations that scale from those that fragment. This episode is sponsored by NiCE. Learn how to structure landing pages for higher conversion and how to use self-qualification systems to prioritize high-intent leads. Download our free PDF report, "B2B AI Lead Generation Guide," at emerj.com/aig1

In this episode, we're excited to welcome back the Brooke Sellas, CEO and founder of B Squared Media. Join us as we dive deep into the evolving landscape of marketing in the age of AI, exploring how it intersects with social media and customer experience.Brooke shares her invaluable insights on the importance of maintaining a human connection amidst the rise of automation. She discusses how AI can be a powerful tool for analysis and efficiency behind the scenes, but emphasizes that it should never replace the genuine relationships brands build with their customers. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls marketers face when over-automating and the necessity of keeping the human touch alive in customer interactions.Listeners will gain practical strategies for leveraging AI without sacrificing the authenticity that drives customer loyalty and trust. Brooke's unique perspective as both a thought leader and educator provides a fresh take on navigating the complexities of modern marketing.Key takeaways...- Balance is Key: Utilize AI for data analysis and insights but ensure that human interaction remains at the forefront of customer relationships.- Guardrails Matter: Set clear parameters when using AI tools to prevent outputs that don't align with your brand voice.- Focus on Experience: Prioritize customer experience over sheer automation to foster genuine connections and loyalty.- Engage Authentically: Encourage meaningful conversations on social media rather than just focusing on content creation.Join us for this enlightening discussion filled with practical tips and thought-provoking insights as we explore the future of marketing in a tech-driven world.Our guest...Brooke Sellas is a leading expert in social media marketing and customer care. As the founder of B Squared Media, she has dedicated over 15 years to pioneering innovative strategies that prioritize authentic customer engagement. A sought-after speaker and educator, Brooke also teaches social media studies at New York University and other prestigious institutions, sharing her knowledge and passion for building meaningful connections in the digital age.~._.*._.~Making a Marketer is brought to you by Powers of Marketing - providing exceptional podcast experiences & online and in-person events since 2013. Check out episode 191, and if our show moves you, please share it and let us know your thoughts!Take our LISTENER Community Survey!!! HERE** Our editor Avri makes amazing music! Check out his music on Spotify! **

What happens when a beauty entrepreneur creates an incredible product… but doesn't yet have the systems to scale it? In this episode from the Fixing a Stranger's Beauty Business in Under 20 Minutes series at 2025 LashCon, Sheila Bella sits down with Jessi, founder of G & E Spa Essentials, a clean skincare and wellness brand born from one mother's determination to help her daughter's health and sensitive skin. What started as homemade bath bombs in the basement has now grown into a business that produces over 200 products with a manufacturing warehouse and storefront. But now after committing to being an entrepreneur full time, Jessi is ready to level up!  She's looking for more reach, automation, scalability, and ultimately, enough income to retire her husband from teaching. In under 20 minutes, Sheila breaks down the exact strategy Jessi needs to scale from word-of-mouth growth into a true million-dollar brand using visibility, paid ads, funnels, email marketing, and automation. This episode is a masterclass on what actually creates sustainable growth in today's beauty industry. Because amazing products alone don't scale businesses. Systems do. Check out G& E Spa Essentials at: gandespaessentials.com

Ever worked with a stakeholder who changes direction faster than your project plan can keep up? Then this episode may feel a little too familiar. Kim and Kate dive into the rise of Mr. Beast and the making of Beast Games through a project management lens—not to critique content creation, but to examine what happens when vision outpaces execution. From sponsor behavior and scaling challenges to agile gone sideways, they unpack the risks of massive ambition without the systems to support it. If you've ever managed shifting priorities, difficult stakeholders, or a project that seemed to grow by the hour, this conversation will hit home. Grab a drink and join us for a fascinating look at project sponsors, leadership, and what real-world project management can learn from internet-scale production.

Send us Fan MailAre you struggling to scale your CPG brand? In this interview, the founder of Startup CPG shares the critical lessons every brand owner needs to hear to navigate the journey from startup to established player. Whether you're selling on Amazon or expanding into retail, these insights on brand building, community, and strategy are essential for your growth.Ready to take your Amazon or CPG brand to the next level? Don't navigate the complex marketplace alone. Let's build a strategy that works for you. Book a call: https://bit.ly/4dQ2hbr#CPG #BrandScaling #Entrepreneurship #RetailGrowth #FounderAdviceWant free resources? Dowload our Free Amazon guides here:Amazon Receiving Delay Guide: https://hubs.ly/Q04cdD4c0Amazon Catalog Spring Cleaning: https://hubs.ly/Q046BVfp0Amazon Proft Margin Defense 2026: https://hubs.ly/Q042trRH0Amazon SEO Toolkit 2026: https://bit.ly/4oC2ClTAmazon Seller Strategy Report 2026: https://bit.ly/3YN1RME2026 Ecommerce Website & SEO Readiness Checklist: https://hubs.ly/Q04btghf0Amazon 2026 PPC guide: https://bit.ly/4lF0OYXTimestamps0:00 - Introduction to CPG Scaling 1:45 - The Most Common Mistakes Founders Make 4:20 - Building a Scalable Infrastructure 7:15 - Retail vs. D2C Growth Strategies 10:30 - Final Advice for CPG Founders-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Follow us:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/28605816/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stevenpopemag/Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/myamazonguys/Twitter: https://twitter.com/myamazonguySubscribe to the My Amazon Guy podcast: https://podcast.myamazonguy.comApple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-amazon-guy/id1501974229Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4A5ASHGGfr6s4wWNQIqyVwSupport the show

In this episode of Million Dollar Flip Flops, Rodric sits down with private equity investor Steve Walsh for a conversation about what it really takes to grow a business beyond the next plateau.Steve shares how he helps entrepreneurs think bigger, build stronger companies, and avoid the common mistakes that keep them stuck at two, three, or even ten million in revenue. The discussion explores mindset, customer understanding, culture, capital, and why the right investor can bring far more than money to the table.From there, Rodric and Steve dive into the difference between smart capital and dumb capital, the importance of hiring A players, and why communication with investors matters more than most founders realize.This is a practical, high-level conversation about growth, leadership, and building a business with the right people around you.In This Episode, You'll LearnWhy many entrepreneurs get stuck before their next levelHow to think bigger than your current revenue targetWhy mindset is often the first bottleneck to growthThe difference between smart capital and dumb capitalWhy the best investors bring doors, systems, and strategyHow to build a culture that attracts A playersWhy customer understanding matters before capitalWhat entrepreneurs often get wrong about their investorsHighlights & Timestamps[00:00] Tell your investor the truth Steve opens with a blunt truth: the things you least want to tell your investor are often the things they most need to know.[01:00] Meet Steve Walsh Steve shares that he works in private equity and focuses on investing in entrepreneurs and helping them reach the next level.[02:00] Why 10X thinking matters He explains why he believes 10X growth is not harder than 2X growth—it just requires a different mindset.[03:00] Special snowflake syndrome Rodric and Steve discuss how entrepreneurs often believe their market is different, when in reality the core principles of business still apply.[04:00] Culture can solve hiring problems Steve shares an example of a company that believed it could not find talent, and explains how better culture can attract people away from competitors.[05:00] Shiny object syndrome The conversation shifts to the trap of spending capital on things that do not move the business forward.[06:00] Start from the end and work backward Steve explains why entrepreneurs should begin with the end goal in mind and then reverse-engineer the path.[07:00] The Magnet and sales fundamentals Rodric connects the conversation to sales and marketing, explaining how many founders neglect the basic “magnet” that attracts customers.[08:00] Why builders struggle with sales They discuss how many builders and contractors are excellent at building but weak at sales, marketing, and customer messaging.[09:00] Smart capital vs. dumb capital Steve explains the difference between money alone and strategic money that brings expertise, relationships, and systems.[10:00] Partnership, not transaction The best investors, Steve says, are true partners who want to help founders succeed beyond the check they write.[11:00] Tell your investor the hard stuff He emphasizes that many founders hide problems from investors when those are exactly the issues that need to be surfaced.[12:00] Why the right investor changes everything Rodric and Steve compare smart capital to strategic help like networks, expertise, and market access.[13:00] A players need a big mission Steve explains why top performers need a meaningful challenge or they will get bored and leave.[14:00] The book and where to find Steve Steve shares where listeners can find his book and connect with him.[15:00] The family man question Steve answers the signature question: businessman with a family or family man with a business?[16:00] Energy, time, and personal alignment He shares how he looks at both business life and personal life when evaluating entrepreneurs.[17:00] Closing thoughts on priorities Steve closes by reinforcing that personal and professional priorities always show up in the calendar and the bank account.Notable Quotes“Most of the things you do not want to tell your investor are the things you need to be telling your investor.” – Steve Walsh “10X it is just as easy as 2X it.” – Steve Walsh “The bigger picture is always bigger than what they see.” – Steve Walsh “Start from the end. Start from where you want to go and work backwards.” – Steve Walsh “Smart capital opens doors you probably never could open on your own.” – Steve Walsh “If you want A players, you need a big goal.” – Steve WalshConnect with Steve Walsh

Text me!Today I'm sitting down with the co-Founder of Midwest Barrel Co. Jess Loseke.  She shares her entrepreneurial journey in the whiskey barrel industry, highlighting the challenges of scaling a niche business, the importance of mindset, and leadership insights. Listen to exactly how how her team navigates international logistics, tech innovations, and why building a strong company culture is crucial.Connect further with Jess HERE and more on Midwest Barrel Co. HERESupport the showLINKS TO FREEBIES BELOW: WEEKLY NEWSLETTER where I share all the tips and tricks on how to grow organically online HERE If you are interested in sponsoring the show, send me a DMABOUT THE HOST: Former Executive Recruiter turned Digital Marketing Expert & Entrepreneur.  I'm here to show you that you can do it too! I help women to start, grow and scale their personal brand and business online through social media. In 2021 I launched ChilledVino, my patented wine product and in 2023 I launched The Feminine Founder Podcast and in 2025 I launched my Digital Marketing Agency called Feminine Founder Marketing. I live in South Carolina with my husband Gary and 2 Weimrarners, Zena & Zara. This podcast is a supportive and inclusive community where I interview and bring women together that are fellow entrepreneurs and workplace experts. We believe in sharing our stories, unpacking exactly how we did it and talking through the mindset shifts needed to achieve great things.Let's connect further!!LinkedIn HERE IG @cpennington55 FB HEREChilledVino HERE

Let us know what you think!Security Halt's Med Group - https://zcform.com/QA5QsClick the link for a FREE consultation with My Med Team to see how we can help.   In Episode 440 of the Security Halt! Podcast, Erik Bartell shares his remarkable journey from military service and leadership to entrepreneurship and founding ECHELON USA. From overcoming adversity and navigating military life to launching a brand built specifically for the military community, Erik provides valuable lessons for veterans looking to transition successfully into business ownership.This conversation explores leadership, resilience, culture-building, startup challenges, and why community remains one of the most important assets veterans can leverage after leaving the military.  About Erik BartellErik Bartell is a veteran, entrepreneur, and founder of ECHELON USA. After serving as an Army officer and leading soldiers in demanding operational environments, Erik transitioned into entrepreneurship, helping build veteran-focused organizations and products designed to serve the military community.Listen now. Follow the show. Share this with the veteran or entrepreneur who needs to hear it.Chapters:00:00 From Adversity to Military Service 02:52 Erik Castaneda's Journey Into the Army 05:46 Officer Training and Early Leadership Lessons 08:59 Earning Trust as a Young Military Leader 11:57 Building Respect Through Competence and Character 15:12 Leading Soldiers in Combat Environments 18:08 Leadership Under Pressure and Shared Hardship 21:04 Why Military Culture Creates Strong Leaders 24:07 The Emotional Challenges of Leaving the Military 27:01 Life After Service and Finding a New Mission 34:03 Transitioning From Military Leader to Entrepreneur 38:04 Building FitOps and Supporting Veteran Success 44:29 Launching Echelon Frontline and Scaling a Brand 49:12 Creating Products for the Military Community 56:02 Why Community Drives Business Growth 01:00:46 Advice for Veteran Entrepreneurs and Future Leaders Sponsored by: Transcend Use my referral link to book a consultation for Peptide Therapy http://transcendcompany.com/DenyCaballero Pure Liberty Labs Use Code: SECURITY_HALT_10 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/purelibertylabs/ Website: https://purelibertylabs.com/ PRECISION WELLNESS GROUP  Use code: Security Halt Podcast 25 Website: https://www.precisionwellnessgroup.com/ SPECIAL FORCES FOUNDATION Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/specialforcesfoundation_/ Website: https://specialforcesfoundation.org/ Request Help: https://specialforcesfoundation.org/get-support/  Security Halt Mediahttps://www.securityhaltmedia.com/Instagram: @securityhaltX: @SecurityHaltTik Tok: @security.halt.podLinkedIn: Deny CaballeroSupport the showProduced by Security Halt Media

You built a business worth millions. Now you are getting married. Do you know what your spouse is legally entitled to if it does not work out? Most founders have no idea.Chris Lunardini is a Partner at Spyros Davis LLC (Spydav Law), specializing in business law, family law, and estate planning.00:00:00 Introduction00:01:22 Scaling a law firm to 20 employees and finding the right hires00:05:27 Why responding after hours sets a precedent clients will expect forever00:08:40 The delegation revelation that changed everything00:16:09 Should a business owner get a prenup? Chris Lunardini says yes and explains why00:19:34 How to frame a prenup as a business decision and isolate just the business00:21:43 Why prenups fail in court: unsigned copies and last-minute timing00:24:25 Estate planning basics: wills vs trusts and why trusts give more control00:26:55 Bringing on an equity partner: trial periods, contracts, and exit terms00:33:05 The most valuable skill in any profession: simplifying complex things00:37:12 AI in law: courts sanctioning attorneys for AI-generated briefs with hallucinated citationsSubscribe to Founder Talk so you never miss an episode.

Ryan Smith id Founder and CEO of Titan Protection and Consulting.  Titan Protection is a premier security services provider and pioneer in autonomous drone security systems. The company was founded in 2008 to prove that physical security services could be both more effective and affordable. Today, Titan Protection employs over 600 people, and protects hundreds of companies across the Midwest with operations extending nationwide.  Titan developed one of the first successful remote pilot drone security programs and became the first security company authorized by the FAA to fly drones out of visual view. An instrument-rated pilot and certified Defensive Tactics Instructor, Ryan's real-world experience shaped his philosophy that effective security requires both advanced technology and highly-trained personnel.  His innovative "blended approach" to security – combining human expertise with emerging technologies – has resulted in significant improvements in security effectiveness while reducing operational costs for numerous enterprises across various sectors. Under his leadership, Titan has become one of the pioneers in using drones for remote security operations and recently received FAA approval for one-to-many drone operations, allowing a single operator to supervise multiple aircraft across multiple locations. In this episode of the Drone Radio Show, Ryan talks about Titan Protection's approach to security, what makes the company different in a rapidly growing market, and how drones are evolving from specialized tools into native components of modern security operations. We'll also discuss the lessons Titan has learned while scaling its drone programs, the impact of one-to-many operations, real-world examples of autonomous security missions, and how Ryan sees these technologies changing the security industry in the years ahead.

Shane Tews, host of Explain to Shane and nonresident senior fellow at AEI, joins Kevin Frazier, director of the AI Innovation and Law Program at the University of Texas School of Law and a senior fellow at the Abundance Institute, for a cross-post conversation about the AI and cyber executive order, workforce disruption, and the future of education. They also share their respective research agendas for the summer. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Innovation comes in many areas, and compliance professionals need to not only be ready for it but also embrace it. Join Tom Fox, the Voice of Compliance, as he visits with top innovative minds, thinkers, and creators in the award-winning Innovation in Compliance podcast. In this episode, host Tom visits with Mouhcine Jalili, VP of Growth – iGaming at Software Mind, on reframing iGaming compliance as a design, delivery, and platform challenge rather than an end-stage legal checklist. Mouhcine argues compliance failures often stem from siloed teams, fragmented legacy platforms, inconsistent vendor integrations (B2B2C), and release management across jurisdictions with differing rules (e.g., spin time, buy-bonus features). He emphasizes strong release governance, modular and configurable architectures, automated controls that cannot be bypassed, and real-time monitoring and alerts to prevent harm, including responsible gambling interventions based on early behavioral signals. Scaling successfully requires standardization and automation while allowing local configuration and avoiding post-acquisition data fragmentation. Over the next 3–5 years, he expects operational compliance to become more engineering- and data-driven, with tighter integration among compliance, product, and engineering teams. Key highlights: Compliance As Design Platform Breaking Silos With Automation KYC Data And Onboarding Gaps Integrity And Preventive Controls Future Engineering Driven Compliance Resources: Connect with Mouhcine Jalili on LinkedIn Software Mind on Linkedin Software Mind Website Innovation in Compliance was recently honored as the Number 4 podcast in Risk Management by 1,000,000 Podcasts.

When Maxine Clark left a top job in retail to start a make-your-own stuffed animal store, people thought she'd lost her mind. Investors doubted it. Friends questioned it. Retail experts couldn't understand how it would scale.But drawing on more than 20 years as a retail executive, Maxine built a massively successful shopping “experience,” where kids could stuff, dress and personalize their own stuffed animals. Today, Build-A-Bear has generated billions in sales, survived the decline of malls, weathered the financial crisis, and become a global brand.WHAT YOU'LL LEARN How a failed errand—and an offhand comment by a kid–inspired a business plan How Maxine leveraged two decades of retail experience to launch Build-a-Bear How Willy Wonka and Walt Disney were early inspirations How she built a wedge against competitors How she got through the financial crisisHow she knew when to step down as CEO– and how to collaborate with her successor TIMESTAMPS: 05:52 - A mom Who Worked for Eleanor Roosevelt 09:18 - The Impromptu Interview That Changed Maxine's Career16:00 - Becoming One of the Few Female Fortune 500 Executives18:43 - Why She Walked Away From Payless21:27 - The Beanie Baby Disappointment That Sparked Build-A-Bear26:14 - Designing the First Store: “Make it Like Willy Wonka.”37:53 - Opening Day — and a Line Out the Door39:53 - Defending the Brand Against Copycats and Lawsuits45:53 - Scaling to Hundreds of Stores and Going Public58:25 - Letting Go: Stepping Down as CEO and Building a LegacyThis episode was researched by Rommel Wood and produced by Kerry Thompson, with music by Ramtin Arablouei, and edited by Neva Grant. Follow How I Built This:Instagram → @howibuiltthisX → @HowIBuiltThisFacebook → How I Built ThisFollow Guy Raz:Instagram → @guy.razYoutube → guy_razX → @guyrazSubstack → guyraz.substack.comWebsite → guyraz.comSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode, I sit down with the team from Coast Pay to discuss their nationwide tour, the mission behind their company, and what they've learned from visiting business owners across America. We talk entrepreneurship, technology, leadership, company culture, and the common challenges contractors face regardless of market size. Sign up for Coast Pay: coastpay.com/brian

Most wholesalers miss the profit potential hiding in wholetail real estate, but one entrepreneur cracked the code by closing 45 deals before turning 24. David sits down with Ben Busha, a real estate wholesaler who has scaled to over 60 deals annually, to break down his proven strategies on this episode. They explore the B2B agent model versus traditional wholesaling, the specific profit breakdown per deal, why balance sheet thinking matters, how to tier agents using MLS data, building offshore teams efficiently, and the critical differences between direct-to-seller and agent-focused approaches.   KEY TALKING POINTS: 0:00 - Intro 0:29 - The B2B Agent Model 2:03 - Wholesale vs Wholetail and Profit Per Deal 5:16 - Why It's a Balance Sheet Business 6:05 - From Corporate Job to His First Deal at 18 8:26 - How He Calls Agents (Why Text Blasting No Longer Works) 10:08 - Tiering Agents and Disposing Deals 13:56 - Pricing Strategy and Advice for New Wholesalers 17:04 - Why B2B Beats Direct-to-Seller 18:19 - Building the Team 19:41 - Competing With Franchises 20:46 - Mentorship, Plasma Donations, and Biggest Losses 23:19 - Operations: Contractors, Offshore Team, Construction Costs 28:42 - A Deal That Taught Him Motivation 30:49 - Scaling to 60+ Deals and Agent Data Tools 33:06 - Outro   LINKS: Instagram: Ben Busha https://www.instagram.com/benbusha/   Website: Neway REI https://www.newayrei.com/   Instagram: David Lecko https://www.instagram.com/dlecko   Website: DealMachine https://www.dealmachine.com/pod   Instagram: Ryan Haywood https://www.instagram.com/heritage_home_investments   Website: Heritage Home Investments https://www.heritagehomeinvestments.com/

In this episode of Growth Think Tank, Gene Hammett sits down with Arad Levertov, CEO and Co-Founder of Sunbit, an Inc. 5000 company ranked No. 1,374 in 2025, to discuss how leaders can stay true to their mission while scaling a fast-growing organization. Arad shares how Sunbit was founded with a mission to reduce financial waste and friction by providing personalized financial solutions that benefit both consumers and merchants. He reflects on the frustrating credit card application experience that inspired the company's creation and explains how Sunbit has expanded across industries, including auto repair, dental care, and eyewear, while facilitating millions of customer financing transactions. The conversation also explores how mission-driven leadership is reinforced through communication, company values, and performance evaluations, as well as the important lessons learned from hiring too quickly during rapid growth. This episode offers valuable insights for leaders seeking to scale their companies without losing sight of their purpose. Episode Highlights & Time Stamps 1:22 Staying True While Scaling 4:15 Sunbit's Customer Promise 5:10 The Costco Moment 8:12 Who Sunbit Serves 11:45 Growth Pressure And Fees 14:35 Spreading The Mission 16:32 Living The Core Values 18:06 Leading By Customer Feel 20:10 Hiring Mistakes And Focus Key Takeaways ✅ Why mission-driven companies outperform when growth creates pressure. ✅ The personal Costco experience that inspired Sunbit's founding. ✅ How eliminating financial waste became Sunbit's core mission. ✅ Why Sunbit refuses to charge late fees or origination fees. ✅ The importance of consistent communication as companies scale. ✅ How company values are reinforced through hiring, performance reviews, and daily decisions. ✅ Why "Serve Others Before Self" is Sunbit's foundational value. ✅ How leaders can avoid becoming disconnected from customers as organizations grow. ✅ Lessons learned from hiring too quickly during periods of rapid expansion. ✅ Why maintaining focus requires saying "no" more often than saying "yes." This episode is a must-listen for CEOs and executives looking to lead innovation with purpose, scale responsibly with AI, and build cultures where people feel empowered to think boldly and grow. Connect With Today's Guest Arad Levertov is the CEO and Co-Founder of Sunbit, a financial technology company focused on eliminating financial waste and helping consumers spend and save with confidence through personalized financial solutions. Under his leadership, Sunbit has expanded to more than 40,000 merchant locations and served millions of customers across the United States. How to Connect with Arad Levertov: LinkedIn: Arad Levertov (LinkedIn) https://www.linkedin.com/in/arad-levertov-37815b4 Company Website: Sunbit https://sunbit.com/ – to learn more about his work and platform Get In Touch with Arad: https://sunbit.com/contact-us/ Resources & Next Steps Ready to take your leadership energy to the next level? Explore free training and resources at https://training.coreelevation.com/ to help you identify energy leaks, strengthen your leadership presence, and elevate your team's performance.

#949 What if you could build digital real estate that pays you every month? In this special episode, we're sharing a fan-favorite interview from Nick Loper's The Side Hustle Show, featuring rank-and-rent expert Luke Van Der Veer. Luke breaks down how he builds simple local service websites, ranks them in Google, and rents them to business owners for recurring monthly income. He shares his process for choosing profitable niches, finding low-competition opportunities, generating leads, and scaling a portfolio that eventually grew into a six-figure-per-month business. Plus, stick around for an updated conversation where Luke reveals how his business has evolved, how AI is changing local SEO, and why he believes lead generation remains one of the most powerful online business models today! What Nick discusses with Luke: + Rank and rent business model + Local SEO fundamentals + Finding profitable niches + Blue-collar service opportunities + Keyword research strategies + Google Business Profile optimization + Lead generation websites + Finding contractor partners + Pricing monthly site rentals + Scaling digital real estate + Revenue-share partnerships + AI and local SEO trends Thank you, Nick and Luke! Check out ⁠⁠⁠The Side Hustle Show⁠⁠⁠. Check out Luke Van Der Veer. To get access to our FREE Business Training course go to ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠MillionaireUniversity.com/training⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ To get exclusive offers mentioned in this episode and to support the show, visit ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠millionaireuniversity.com/sponsors⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Paul DeJoria epitomizes the American dream, rising from adversity to become a renowned entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is best known for co-founding iconic brands John Paul Mitchell Systems and The Patrón Spirits Company. John Paul has made philanthropy his core mission, establishing JP's Peace, Love & Happiness Family Foundation in 2011 to contribute to a sustainable planet by investing in people, animals, and the environment. This year, he was recognized as #24 on Forbes' list of the 250 Greatest Self-Made Americans. His motto, "Success Unshared is Failure," which is also the title of his new book, reflects a lifelong commitment to sharing success and fostering positive change. Summary John Paul DeJoria's life story has the shape of the American dream, but in this conversation he keeps pulling it back from myth into practice. He begins with a lesson from his mother, who had very little after his father left but still taught him and his brother to give a dime to the Salvation Army because someone else always needed more. That early ethic becomes the foundation of his book, motto, and operating philosophy: success only matters if it is shared. The discussion then moves through the formative hardships that could have made him bitter: foster care, homelessness, odd jobs, and door-to-door sales. John Paul does not romanticize those moments, but he does turn them into practical leadership lessons. When you are down, don't relive what got you there; look for the next constructive step. When you are rejected, be prepared for it, refuse to personalize it, and knock on the next door with the same enthusiasm. From there, the episode turns to entrepreneurship. John Paul explains why Paul Mitchell was built for the "reorder business," not the selling business: make the product so good that customers come back again and again. Scarcity forced the company to become lean, direct, and deeply customer-centered, teaching hairdressers how to use and sell the products instead of relying on advertising. The same playbook carried into Patrón, where education, quality, and grassroots selling helped create a premium tequila category that many distributors initially said was too expensive to scale. Finally, the conversation becomes a meditation on values, leadership, and legacy. John Paul talks about refusing to test on animals, stripping out unnecessary middle management, learning to let go as a leader, and building a culture where people know the mission without constant supervision. His philanthropy follows the same logic as his companies: not just giving money away, but investing in dignity, self-sufficiency, and a chance for people to move one notch higher. His definition of excellence closes the loop beautifully: excellence is what you do when no one is looking and the desire to keep finding something you can do a little bit better. Takeaways ·       "Success Unshared is Failure" was not a slogan for John Paul; it started as a childhood lesson in generosity when his family had almost nothing. ·       Adversity only becomes useful when it teaches you to look forward. You cannot change "yesterday's newspapers," but you can decide the next step. ·       Rejection is survivable when you expect it. The trick is not to avoid the closed doors, but to keep your energy intact for the next one. ·       Great businesses are built for reorder, not just first purchase. Quality has to be strong enough that customers come back without being chased. ·       Scarcity can sharpen a company. With no advertising budget, Paul Mitchell had to win by educating hairdressers and helping salons create retail revenue. ·       The real product was the system: the bottle, the stylist education, the salon relationship, and the customer experience all worked together. ·       Values become real when they cost something. Refusing to test on animals was not positioned as a marketing tactic but as a line John Paul would not cross. ·       The best partnerships have clear lanes. Paul Mitchell brought the hairdressing and creative credibility; John Paul brought the business building and go-to-market engine. ·       Scaling as a leader requires letting go. John Paul had to learn that having time to think was as important as personally overseeing every detail. ·       The best philanthropy is a hand up, not a handout. John Paul frames giving as an investment in someone's ability to become self-sufficient. ·       Excellence is not status or achievement. It is the standard you hold when no one else is watching and the commitment to keep growing. Notes: Book: Success Unshared is Failure Foundation: JP's Peace, Love & Happiness Family Foundation Businesses discussed: Paul Mitchell Patron Tequilla Bandero Tequilla  

Three massive semiconductor and computing developments are reshaping the future of AI infrastructure — and 7investing's Simon Erickson sits down with Nick Rossalillo of Chip Stock Investor to break them all down. First up: Cerebras Systems (NASDAQ:CBRS), which just went public on May 13th at $185/share (~$40 billion valuation) and is now trading near $46 billion at 90x trailing sales. The company's Wafer Scale Engine, a chip that uses an entire silicon wafer rather than individual diced chip, was designed specifically for AI inference workloads that NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA) GPUs struggle to handle efficiently due to on-chip SRAM limitations. With potential $20 billion in orders from OpenAI and access via AWS, Cerebras is real, but neither Simon nor Nick is buying at this price. Their rule: wait a year before touching a fresh IPO.Next, SpaceX's freshly-raised $75 billion gets put under the microscope, specifically Elon's ambition to build orbital data centers. Nick walks through the SpaceX diagram: 70-meter solar panel wingspan, laser-based networking between compute modules, and the massive engineering challenges around power, heat dissipation, and in-orbit assembly. This isn't imminent, Starlink's next-gen constellation comes first — but if Elon can crack the economics, it would rewrite the rules of data center infrastructure entirely.Finally, Huawei's Tau Scaling announcement: a new architectural approach to chip performance that bypasses the need for extreme ultraviolet lithography (which China can't access due to ASML export controls). Tau temporal scaling focuses on minimizing signal travel time between transistors using logic folding, new materials, and 3D stacking. Huawei claims it could reach 1.5 nanometer equivalent performance by 2031. Simon and Nick are skeptical — 381 chips in six years is not mass production, and TSMC (NYSE:TSM) will be well past that node by then but it's worth watching as China continues building workarounds to Western export restrictions.Whether Moore's Law is dead or simply rerouting, the chipmaking industry is more innovative and more investable than it's been in decades.Join the conversation on the 7investing discord: https://discord.com/invite/PT9ZQqdXXSWant access to all 7investing research? Join at 7investing.com/subscribe Follow Chip Stock Investor  @chipstockinvestor  and https://chipstockinvestor.com/Stocks & Companies Mentioned:Cerebras Systems (NASDAQ:CBRS)NVIDIA (NASDAQ:NVDA)AMD (NASDAQ:AMD)SpaceX (SPCX)Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company / TSMC (NYSE:TSM)ASE Technology Holding / ASE Group (NYSE:ASX)Vicor Corporation (NASDAQ:VICR)ASML Holding (NASDAQ:ASML)Applied Materials (NASDAQ:AMAT)Lam Research (NASDAQ:LRCX)Intel (NASDAQ:INTC)Amazon / AWS (NASDAQ:AMZN)Alphabet / Google (NASDAQ:GOOGL)AST SpaceMobile (NASDAQ:ASTS)Samsung Electronics (KRX:005930)Huawei — private (Chinese company)OpenAI — privateLuckin Coffee (OTC:LKNCY) — mentioned as cautionary example#Semiconductors #MooresLaw #CerebrasSystems #CBRS #AIChips #NVIDIA #SpaceX #OrbitalDataCenters #HuaweiTech #TauScaling #ChipStocks #AIInvesting #TechStocks #GrowthStocks #StockMarket #InvestingIn2026 #7investing #Simonerickson

Cameron is joined by Jason Brand from Podium and they discuss the transformative role of AI in practice management. They explore how Podium is innovating communication tools for practices, the importance of AI for growth, and the differences between practices that are thriving versus those that are plateauing. The conversation emphasizes the need for proper implementation and training of AI systems to enhance efficiency and patient experience. In this conversation,Cameron and Jason talk about the critical role of AI in modern practice management, particularly in the aesthetic industry. They explore how AI is not just a tool but an essential component for enhancing operational efficiency, improving patient communication, and adapting to changing consumer expectations. They also highlight the importance of embracing AI to remain competitive and the potential for AI to transform job roles within practices. They conclude with insights on the future of AI in healthcare and an exclusive offer for listeners. Listen In!Thank you for listening to this episode of Medical Millionaire!Takeaways:AI is essential for modern practice management.Practices must adapt to AI to avoid stagnation.Podium is innovating communication tools for practices.Rapidly growing practices are ultra-responsive to leads.AI agents can handle operational tasks effectively.Training AI is crucial for optimal performance.Every practice has unique needs for AI implementation.Time management is key for practice owners.AI can enhance patient experience significantly.The future of practice management is intertwined with technology. AI is essential for practice owners to remain competitive.Patients are increasingly comfortable interacting with AI.Gen Z prefers AI communication over human interaction.AI can streamline operational tasks and improve efficiency.The future of practice management will heavily involve AI.AI can help practice owners focus on patient care rather than administrative tasks.Investing in AI can enhance enterprise value for practices.AI can automate routine tasks, allowing staff to focus on growth strategies.The integration of AI can lead to a more personalized patient experience.Mentioning the podcast can lead to exclusive offers for listeners.Podium link: https://aesthetics.podium.com/demo?utm_medium=third_party_media&utm_source=medical_millionaire&utm_campaign=evgr-noram-medical_million-third_party_media-podcast_link&utm_term=prospecting&SCID=701U100000uKW57IAGMedical Millionaire: The Blueprint for Scaling a World-Class Medical Aesthetics PracticeWelcome to Medical Millionaire, the go-to podcast for forward-thinking Medspa owners, Medical Aesthetics leaders, Plastic Surgery & Dermatology practices, Concierge Wellness clinics, and Elective Healthcare entrepreneurs who are ready to scale with intention and operate like a true, high-performing business.If you're building, growing, optimizing, or preparing to exit your aesthetics or wellness practice, this show is your competitive advantage.Hosted by Cameron Hemphill Your Guide to Sustainable, Scalable Growth Your host, Cameron Hemphill, is one of the most trusted growth strategists in Medical Aesthetics and Elective Wellness.With over 10 years in the industry, Cameron has helped scale 1,000+ practices and more than 2,300 providers, working alongside the most recognized KOLs, national brands, EMRs, tech companies, and private equity groups, shaping the future of aesthetics. From marketing to operations, from finance to leadership, Cameron brings a real-world, data-driven perspective on what it takes to turn a practice into a powerful business engine.What This Podcast Is All About: Each episode takes you behind the scenes of the fastest-growing practices in the country, revealing the systems, strategies, and mindset required to win in today's Medical Aesthetics landscape.Expect tactical insights, step-by-step frameworks, and conversations with:Industry thought leadersTop injectors & medical directorsEMR & tech innovatorsOperations expertsMarketing strategistsPrivate equity & M&A advisorsWellness and longevity pioneersThis is where aesthetics, business, technology, and wellness converge. What You'll Learn on Medical Millionaire Every week, you'll access expert guidance to help you scale profitably and predictably, including:Marketing & Brand PositioningCRM + Lead Management SystemsPatient Acquisition & ConversionEMR Optimization & Tech Stack ArchitectureSales Psychology & Consultation MasteryFinance, KPIs, and Practice EconomicsOperational Workflows & AutomationIndustry Trends Backed by Real Benchmark DataPatient Retention & Lifetime Value ExpansionMindset, Leadership & Team DevelopmentWhether you're opening your first location or running a multi-million-dollar enterprise, you'll gain the clarity and direction to grow with confidence. A Show Designed for Every Stage of Practice Growth Medical Millionaire breaks down the journey into four essential stages, showing you exactly how to move from one to the next:Startup – Build the foundation and attract your first wave of patientsGrowth – Scale revenue, expand services, and strengthen operationsOptimize – Increase efficiency, margins, and customer experienceExit – Prepare your practice for maximum valuation and acquisitionIf You're Ready to Grow, This Is Where You Start. Tune in weekly for actionable insights, expert interviews, and the exact playbooks high-performing practices use to dominate their markets. This is the podcast for Medspa owners who want more than a job; they want a scalable, profitable, industry-leading business. Welcome to Medical Millionaire.Let's build your practice into the empire it deserves to be.

Automation as Core Strategy: Aarin Bailey on RPA, AI, and Scaling MSP OperationsOn the Evolved Radio podcast, Todd interviews Aarin Bailey, COO at Webit Services and former COO at MSP Bots, about treating automation as a core MSP operating strategy. Aarin describes how his automation focus accelerated around COVID by chaining PowerShell scripts, later expanding into Python, GUIs, and modular systems connected via RESTful APIs, with much of the computation running outside the RMM on servers (including SQL and Python) while the RMM remains mainly a monitoring and job-push layer. They discuss whether RMM is a “zombie product,” the ongoing role of PSA/ticketing as a system of record, and managing complexity through separate modules and staff literacy in Python/RPA. Aarin explains build-vs-buy decisions driven by ROI and fit, cites automated triage/dispatch with ~98% accuracy and shifting token costs, argues AI should augment rather than replace humans, and emphasizes documentation, playbooks, and focusing on operational “bad” anomalies. They also cover client tolerance for AI, limiting client-facing AI after hallucinated ticket notes, skepticism about voice AI, and concerns about AI economics and subsidies.This episode is brought to you by Opsleader Pro. A place for MSP owners and managers to get the systems and tools they need to build a stable and growing MSP. Part group coaching, part peer group, everything you need to run a successful MSP. (00:00) - Automation First Mindset (01:10) - Aaron Origin Story (05:04) - From Scripts to Platforms (05:41) - Beyond the RMM Beehive (08:35) - Is RMM a Zombie (12:14) - Managing Complexity Safely (14:33) - Build vs Buy ROI (19:39) - Token Costs and Pair Coding (23:49) - AI Security Reality Check (27:34) - Scaling with Playbooks (30:12) - Hunt the Bad Stuff (30:59) - Blueprints Before Automation (32:46) - Ticket Volume and Vision (33:32) - Saying No as Integrator (35:44) - Healthy Disagreement Dynamics (37:08) - Client Facing vs Backend AI (40:05) - AI Hallucinations and Guardrails (43:05) - Voice AI and Live Answer (46:06) - Costs and Subsidized AI Era (49:26) - Outcome First and RPA Focus (51:36) - Wrap Up and Thanks

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monica Cornitcher. Entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Medase Cocktails, and the realities of launching, funding, and scaling a premium nonalcoholic spirits brand in a highly competitive market. Purpose of the Conversation The purpose of the episode is to: Educate aspiring entrepreneurs on how to build a differentiated consumer brand Demonstrate the importance of storytelling, market clarity, and operational discipline Highlight the growth of the nonalcoholic / zero‑proof beverage movement Inspire founders—especially founders of color—to own their niche, seek capital strategically, and scale intentionally. Key Takeaways 1. Business Built from Personal Need and Purpose Medase Cocktails was co‑founded by Monica and her lifelong friend during her friend’s battle with breast cancer, a time when alcohol was no longer an option—but celebration still mattered. The brand was created to allow people to celebrate authentically without alcohol It carries emotional depth rooted in friendship, gratitude, and loss Monica continues the mission after her co‑founder passed away in 2024 Lesson: Purpose-driven businesses create deeper emotional connection and long-term brand equity. 2. Differentiation Is Everything Monica deliberately rejected the “sparkling water with flavor” model common in nonalcoholic drinks. Her differentiators include: Authentic cocktail taste (Old Fashioned, Margarita, Moscow Mule) Organic juices, not artificial flavors Bold packaging that stands out on shelves Drinks designed to smell, taste, and feel like real cocktails Lesson: Competing on authenticity—not cost—is how you carve out market share in crowded spaces. 3. Brand Names and Stories Matter The name “Medase” means “thank you” and reflects gratitude, friendship, and emotional support. Monica emphasizes: Every flavor name, color, and product decision has a story A strong brand narrative creates curiosity, loyalty, and investor interest Lesson: People invest in brands they feel—emotionally, not just intellectually. 4. Venture Capital Is Not Just About Numbers While financials matter, Monica stresses that VCs also invest in founders and stories. What helped her secure venture capital: A compelling personal story Relevant founder skill sets (M&A, law, operations) Clear understanding of the market opportunity Lesson: Early-stage funding often depends on who you are and why you’re building, not just revenue. 5. Research, Planning, and Discipline Before Launch Unlike many food startups, Medase did not begin in a kitchen. They: Conducted a feasibility study Built a formal business plan Worked with a Black female food scientist Set strict personal funding limits before seeking capital Lesson: Preparation reduces risk and builds long-term sustainability. 6. Scaling Requires Operational Maturity As sales increased—especially on Amazon—Monica emphasized the need to move from “hustle mode” to operational excellence. Key scaling principles: Understand unit economics Track ROI for events and activations Adjust pricing as volume increases Build strategy across marketing, operations, and distribution Lesson: Hustle starts the business; operations grow it. 7. Niche First, Expansion Later Medase does not try to be “everything to everyone.” Core customers include: People seeking a break from alcohol Health-conscious consumers Black men looking for alcohol replacements Consumers wanting cocktail taste without hangovers Lesson: Strong niches create loyal advocates who fuel organic growth. 8. Smart Distribution Strategy Rather than rushing into retail, Monica prioritized direct-to-consumer channels: Amazon (top-performing channel) Brand website TikTok Shop Only after 6–7 months of traction did retail expansion become viable. Lesson: Control your margins and demand before entering expensive retail environments. Memorable Quotes “I wanted an authentic cocktail without compromise.” “Everything we do has a story behind it.” “Sometimes it’s not about the financials—it’s about the founder and the story.” “Don’t be everything to everybody. Find your market and stick with your market.” “Hustle starts the business, but operations give you scale.” “If it tastes too much like alcohol and you gave me a one-star review—thank you. That means I did my job.” Overall Message This episode is a real-world entrepreneurial blueprint showing how clarity of vision, emotional authenticity, disciplined planning, and niche focus can turn a personal idea into a scalable national brand. Monica Cornitcher exemplifies the modern founder:visionary, data-aware, emotionally intelligent, and unapologetically authentic. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monica Cornitcher. Entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Medase Cocktails, and the realities of launching, funding, and scaling a premium nonalcoholic spirits brand in a highly competitive market. Purpose of the Conversation The purpose of the episode is to: Educate aspiring entrepreneurs on how to build a differentiated consumer brand Demonstrate the importance of storytelling, market clarity, and operational discipline Highlight the growth of the nonalcoholic / zero‑proof beverage movement Inspire founders—especially founders of color—to own their niche, seek capital strategically, and scale intentionally. Key Takeaways 1. Business Built from Personal Need and Purpose Medase Cocktails was co‑founded by Monica and her lifelong friend during her friend’s battle with breast cancer, a time when alcohol was no longer an option—but celebration still mattered. The brand was created to allow people to celebrate authentically without alcohol It carries emotional depth rooted in friendship, gratitude, and loss Monica continues the mission after her co‑founder passed away in 2024 Lesson: Purpose-driven businesses create deeper emotional connection and long-term brand equity. 2. Differentiation Is Everything Monica deliberately rejected the “sparkling water with flavor” model common in nonalcoholic drinks. Her differentiators include: Authentic cocktail taste (Old Fashioned, Margarita, Moscow Mule) Organic juices, not artificial flavors Bold packaging that stands out on shelves Drinks designed to smell, taste, and feel like real cocktails Lesson: Competing on authenticity—not cost—is how you carve out market share in crowded spaces. 3. Brand Names and Stories Matter The name “Medase” means “thank you” and reflects gratitude, friendship, and emotional support. Monica emphasizes: Every flavor name, color, and product decision has a story A strong brand narrative creates curiosity, loyalty, and investor interest Lesson: People invest in brands they feel—emotionally, not just intellectually. 4. Venture Capital Is Not Just About Numbers While financials matter, Monica stresses that VCs also invest in founders and stories. What helped her secure venture capital: A compelling personal story Relevant founder skill sets (M&A, law, operations) Clear understanding of the market opportunity Lesson: Early-stage funding often depends on who you are and why you’re building, not just revenue. 5. Research, Planning, and Discipline Before Launch Unlike many food startups, Medase did not begin in a kitchen. They: Conducted a feasibility study Built a formal business plan Worked with a Black female food scientist Set strict personal funding limits before seeking capital Lesson: Preparation reduces risk and builds long-term sustainability. 6. Scaling Requires Operational Maturity As sales increased—especially on Amazon—Monica emphasized the need to move from “hustle mode” to operational excellence. Key scaling principles: Understand unit economics Track ROI for events and activations Adjust pricing as volume increases Build strategy across marketing, operations, and distribution Lesson: Hustle starts the business; operations grow it. 7. Niche First, Expansion Later Medase does not try to be “everything to everyone.” Core customers include: People seeking a break from alcohol Health-conscious consumers Black men looking for alcohol replacements Consumers wanting cocktail taste without hangovers Lesson: Strong niches create loyal advocates who fuel organic growth. 8. Smart Distribution Strategy Rather than rushing into retail, Monica prioritized direct-to-consumer channels: Amazon (top-performing channel) Brand website TikTok Shop Only after 6–7 months of traction did retail expansion become viable. Lesson: Control your margins and demand before entering expensive retail environments. Memorable Quotes “I wanted an authentic cocktail without compromise.” “Everything we do has a story behind it.” “Sometimes it’s not about the financials—it’s about the founder and the story.” “Don’t be everything to everybody. Find your market and stick with your market.” “Hustle starts the business, but operations give you scale.” “If it tastes too much like alcohol and you gave me a one-star review—thank you. That means I did my job.” Overall Message This episode is a real-world entrepreneurial blueprint showing how clarity of vision, emotional authenticity, disciplined planning, and niche focus can turn a personal idea into a scalable national brand. Monica Cornitcher exemplifies the modern founder:visionary, data-aware, emotionally intelligent, and unapologetically authentic. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSteve Harvey Morning Show Online: http://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Dan Newman heads FP&A at RingCentral, a $2.5B public SaaS company (a platform for business phone, SMS, contact center, workforce engagement management, video collaboration, and messaging) , where he has overseen a  period of 10X growth. Discussing a career comprising consulting, being a financial analyst at Salesforce, private-equity-backed startups, Dan discusses building financial models towards a sale, navigating the shift from 30% growth to efficiency, and AI processes. In this episode Building the FP&A team at SchoolMessenger and pivoting to a sale  Joining RingCentral at a $250m run rate and a six-person FP&A team towards $2.5billion Why revenue is rarely as simple as it looks  Business partnering in an age of efficiency in SaaS

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Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ryan Richmond.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Ryan Richmond.

In this replay, we break down the importance of knowing your numbers and how LMN helps lawn and landscaping companies estimate, budget, and price work for profit. If you're looking to improve margins, gain financial clarity, and make smarter business decisions, this training is packed with actionable insights to help you grow a healthier, more profitable company.    Connect with Troy: troy.woodham@granum.com https://granum.chilipiper.com/shared/troy-woodham/lmn-self-sourced-60-minutes  

Amanda Lewis is a dental entrepreneur, innovator, and founder of Lewie, an oral wellness company redefining how consumers think about smile care. With more than 15 years of experience growing, acquiring, merging, and selling dental practices, Amanda has built multiple successful businesses while navigating entrepreneurship, leadership, product development, and personal reinvention. In this episode, she shares her journey from aspiring dentist to multi-practice owner and startup founder, along with the lessons she learned about scaling companies, overcoming setbacks, and pursuing opportunities that align with a bigger vision. On this episode we talk about: Building and scaling successful dental practices from the ground up The realities of entrepreneurship, delegation, and business ownership How private equity is changing the dental industry Transitioning from healthcare provider to consumer product founder Creating Lewie and bringing innovative oral wellness products to market Top 3 Takeaways Entrepreneurship requires constant learning, and many of the most important business lessons come through mistakes, challenges, and experience. Delegation is essential for long-term growth—trying to do everything yourself eventually becomes a bottleneck. The biggest regrets often come from opportunities not pursued, which is why taking calculated risks and following new ideas can be worth the uncertainty. Notable Quotes "Sometimes the only way through a problem is to keep on going." "If I didn't stop and do this, what would I regret?" "The smile is at the center of a person's confidence." Connect with Amanda Lewis: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mylewie/ Website: https://mylewie.com/ Instagram (personal): https://www.instagram.com/dramandalewis/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-lewis-mylewie/ A Word from Our Sponsors: - Are you ready to start your own creatorjourney and make it big? Visitwww.fanvue.com today and launch yourcareer! - To learn more about Mode Mobile and its investor community, go to https://invest.modemobile.com/travismakesmoney -Travis Makes Money is made possible by High Level – the All-In-One Sales & Marketing Platform built for agencies, by an agency.Capture leads, nurture them, and close more deals—all from one powerful platform.Get an extended free trial at gohighlevel.com/travis Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Apply to Join Churchfront Premium Apply to Join Churchfront Pro Free Worship and Production Toolkit Shop Our Online Courses Join us at the Churchfront Conference Follow Churchfront on Instagram or TikTok: @churchfront Follow on Twitter: @realchurchfront Gear we use to make videos at Churchfront Musicbed SyncID: MB01VWQ69XRQNSN     Churchfront Podcast — Josh Kelsey | How AI Is Transforming Church Ministry   Guest background: Josh Kelsey is the Lead Pastor of Vineyard Church in California. In this conversation, Josh shares how his church is actively using AI across nearly every department—from sermon preparation and curriculum creation to operations, worship ministry, and discipleship. He offers a practical vision for how church leaders can use AI to reclaim time, reduce burnout, and focus more deeply on shepherding people.   Key Topics   AI in the church: fear vs. opportunity Josh argues that many church leaders are approaching AI with unnecessary fear. While concerns around ethics and implementation are valid, he sees AI primarily as a tool—one that can dramatically increase effectiveness while freeing leaders to focus on ministry. He believes churches that embrace these tools thoughtfully will be able to pastor more effectively, not less.   Why churches are historically slow to adopt technology Churches and nonprofits are often years behind the business world when it comes to adopting new technology. Josh believes AI is creating one of the largest technological shifts of our generation, and many church leaders risk missing opportunities simply because they haven't taken time to understand what's actually possible.   Scaling ministry without losing community One of the most intriguing ideas discussed is whether AI can help churches scale without sacrificing the personal connection that often disappears as organizations grow. Instead of hiring more specialists for every operational challenge, churches may soon be able to use AI systems to maintain consistency, communication, and care at a much larger scale.   AI as a team of specialists Rather than thinking of AI as a chatbot, Josh encourages leaders to think of it as an entire team of specialists available on demand. Administrative support, curriculum development, data analysis, planning, project management, and content creation can all be assisted by AI, allowing pastors to spend more time on teaching, discipleship, and relationships.   The future of church software The conversation explores how tools like Planning Center, HubSpot, Notion, Logos, MultiTracks, and other church software platforms will likely become deeply integrated with AI through technologies like APIs and Model Context Protocol (MCP). Instead of manually moving information between platforms, leaders will increasingly interact with a single AI layer that understands and works across their entire ministry ecosystem.   How Josh uses AI for sermon planning Josh shares his personal workflow for annual sermon planning and weekly sermon preparation. What once required multiple staff meetings and days of planning can now be completed in minutes. He uses AI to help organize ideas, structure teaching series, review theological themes, and accelerate sermon preparation while maintaining full ownership over theological convictions and final content.   Using AI without losing your voice One of the biggest concerns among pastors is whether AI will replace authentic preaching. Josh argues that AI works best as a collaborator rather than a creator. By training AI on previous sermons, theological frameworks, and ministry values, leaders can use it to refine and organize their ideas while still maintaining their unique voice and convictions.   Curriculum creation and discipleship workflows Vineyard uses AI extensively to create small group curriculum, discipleship resources, class materials, slide decks, teacher guides, and parent resources. Tools like NotebookLM help transform existing content into multiple formats, dramatically reducing preparation time while increasing consistency across ministries.   AI-powered worship ministry Worship and production teams are also leveraging AI. Josh and his worship pastor discuss using tools like Suno to create custom music, countdown tracks, and ministry-specific content. They also explore future possibilities for creating custom stems, backing tracks, and other resources that could significantly reduce production workload.   The ethics of AI and transparency Throughout the conversation, Josh emphasizes the importance of transparency. Leaders should be honest about where AI is assisting their work while recognizing that many forms of ministry have always involved collaboration, research assistance, editors, and support staff. The key is maintaining integrity while leveraging powerful new tools.   A leveling of the playing field for small churches Perhaps the most exciting implication is what AI means for under-resourced churches. Pastors who lack staff, consultants, formal training, or large budgets can now access tools that help bridge those gaps. Josh believes AI may become one of the most powerful ministry equalizers the Church has ever seen.   Notable tools mentioned   • Claude • ChatGPT • Gemini • NotebookLM • Planning Center • HubSpot • Notion • Logos Bible Software • Suno • Zapier • MultiTracks • Google Workspace   Key Quote   "Imagine if you could free up 15 hours of your week to spend more time making sure the people in your church who are most forgotten actually get seen."   • • • • •   Disclaimer: This video and description contain affiliate links.

Send us Fan MailIn episode 303 of Beyond The Story, Sebastian Rusk interviews Jim Edmondson, a Serial entrepreneur with multiple business exits, now focused on a passion project born from frustration with media outreach, as he shares how he identified a major gap in the PR world and leveraged technology, obsession with analytics, and a growth mindset to build Press Whisper. This game-changing PR platform makes results-driven publicity accessible to every entrepreneur. Tune in for clear strategies and actionable advice you won't hear anywhere else! TIMESTAMPS[00:00:05] Welcome & Origin Story: Jim's entrepreneurial beginnings[00:02:41] Scaling a defense company & exiting at $100M[00:03:47] Giving back: Building Avri Industries for veterans[00:04:44] The PR problem: High costs, low returns[00:06:35] Pitching journalists & discovering industry bottlenecks[00:08:01] Harnessing AI & analytics for targeted PR[00:09:30] How Press Whisper simplifies the PR process[00:11:04] Scoring, improvement, & getting your story seen[00:13:32] Matching stories with the right journalists[00:16:07] A free offer for listeners & call to action for entrepreneurs[00:18:27] Final motivation: Disrupt your industry and take action now QUOTES"It seemed like quite a bloated industry based on some old relationships and a lot of money for really not doing a huge amount of work." – Jim Edmondson"Go and disrupt your own industries. Just get out there and, you know, make, make some noise." – Jim Edmondson"When is there not work involved? If you want to get it done, roll up your sleeves and make it happen." – Sebastian Rusk  ==========================Need help launching your podcast?Schedule a Free Podcast Strategy Call TODAY!PodcastLaunchLabNow.com==========================SOCIAL MEDIA LINKSInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/podcastlaunchlab/Facebook: Facebook.com/sruskLinkedIn: LinkedIn.com/in/sebastianrusk/YouTube: Youtube.com/@PodcastLaunchLab Jim EdmondsonInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/miccheckjim/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@miccheckjim ==========================Take the quiz now! https://podcastquiz.online/==========================Need Money For Your Business? Our Friends at Closer Capital can help! Click here for more info: PodcastsSUCK.com/money==========================PAYING RENT? Earn airline miles when you use the Bilt Rewards MastercardAPPLY HERE: https://bilt.page/r/2H93-5474 

George Wright III interviews Lane Martin, founder of Modern PurAir, about scaling a “boring but essential” indoor air quality service business through systems, technology, and franchising. Martin shares how he grew up in duct cleaning, bought into the family business in 1992, sold it in 1996, returned in 2001 after losing money in a furniture venture, and began scaling by hiring technicians despite initial resistance. Inspired by 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, he learned franchising lessons directly from Brian Scudamore and built a roadmap to expand. Modern PurAir now has 38 territories and 22 franchises across Canada with over $20M in system sales and is expanding into the U.S. They emphasize documenting everything with Loom/Scribe/Trainual, delegating to an 80% standard, and tracking KPIs like same-store sales growth and profitability guided by a three-year vivid vision.00:29 Meet Lane Martin01:35 From Duct Truck to Franchise03:07 Scaling Across North America04:21 Hiring First Tech Breakthrough05:50 Franchise Spark from Got Junk07:45 Operator to Visionary Shift09:20 Systems Beat Talent10:59 Documenting SOPs with Loom13:58 Delegation and the 80 Percent Rule18:12 KPIs and Vivid Vision Focus22:43 Boring Business Opportunities25:12 Indoor Air Quality Future and US Expansion27:36 Franchise Due Diligence AdviceThanks for listening, and Please Share this Episode with someone. It would really help us to grow our show and share these valuable tips and strategies with others. Have a great day.George Wright III“It's Never Too Late to Start Living the Life You Were Meant to Live”FREE Daily Mastermind Resources:CONNECT with George & Access Tons of ResourcesGet access to Proven Strategies and Time-Test Principles for Success. Plus, download and access tons of FREE resources and online events by joining our Exclusive Community of Entrepreneurs, Business Owners, and High Achievers like YOU.Join FREE at DailyMastermind.comFollow me on social media Facebook | Instagram | Linkedin | TikTok | YoutubeGrow Your Authority and Personal Brand with a FREE Interview in a Top Global Magazine HERE.ABOUT GUESTLANE MARTIN is the Co-founder of Modern PURAIR®, one of North America's fastest-growing Indoor Air Quality (IAQ)companies and franchise systems. From its headquarters in Kelowna, BC, he has helped grow the business from a local service operation into a multi-location brand, expanding across Canada and into the U.S., with franchise locations in markets as small as 50,000 people, achieving over $1M CAD in annual revenue. A second-generation entrepreneur, Lane grew up in the industry and has spent over two decades building businessesfocused on service, systems, and long-term growth. Under his leadership, Modern PURAIR® has evolved into a scalablefranchise model and a category leader in indoor air quality - an often overlooked but increasingly essential part of bothhealth and home maintenance. Today, Lane is passionate about mentoring entrepreneurs to recognize the power of “boring but essential” businesses -those that quietly solve real problems, create meaningful impact, and generate predictable, recurring revenue. He is alsoactive in supporting children in need through his work with the PURKIDS® Foundation. Lane lives in Kelowna with his wifeand children, embracing the Okanagan Valley lifestyle and its outdoor pursuits whenever possible.Under Lane's leadership, Modern PURAIR® has earned numerous accolades, including Chamber of Commerce Business ofthe Year (2009), Small Business of the Year (2021) and Finalist for Medium Business of the Year (2022).Website: https://modernpurair.com/● LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lane-martin-7377a114/● YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@modernpurair6889● Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lanemartin/● Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/purairguy● X (Twitter): https://x.com/ModernPURAI

In this episode, the guys sit down with Nikki DuBois, founder of Boomerang Boat Tours in Washington, DC. She shares her remarkable journey from high school teacher to owner of a thriving multi vessel charter operation. Nikki discusses how she identified market opportunities, evolved from party buses to party boats, and built a business that now operates successfully with remote ownership. The conversation dives into critical topics for watersport operators, including cashless operations, preventing theft, team accountability, hiring and firing decisions, navigating the challenges of COVID-19, and leveraging technology to manage vessels from afar. Nikki's story offers valuable lessons on leadership, adaptability, operational efficiency, and long term business growth in the charter and watersports industry.[SPONSORS] - This show is sponsored by Take My Boat Test and WaveRez.Show Links:Website: https://www.watersportpodcast.comFacebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/awgpodcastFacebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1155418904790489Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/awg_podcast/

What if you never made a cold call, never sent a cold email, and still built a global agency with 140 clients across four continents? In this episode, Joel Strauss, founder of Strauss Communications, shares how being fired at the start of Covid with zero clients led to building a boutique PR agency that has now worked with over 140 companies across four continents. Almost every single one came through a relationship. Joel's story has three chapters: starting the business, scaling it, and saving it. Each one hinged on a personal relationship at exactly the right moment. Including the meeting in Madrid that pulled his agency back from the brink after October 7th changed everything overnight.   [00:03:30] What He Does and Who He Serves Runs Strauss Communications, a boutique PR agency for tech startups Services cover organic media coverage, content, and social media 95% of clients are tech companies; most are referred through relationships [00:04:30] How He Got Into PR Idealized politics; left after nearly two years deeply unhappy Quit, traveled South America, then went on a boys' trip to Montreal Met his brother's former roommate who connected him to a PR firm in Tel Aviv He packed up everything in New York and moved within two weeks [00:06:00] The Introduction That Started Everything His brother's former roommate saw a fit between his background and the agency The firm had political and tech clients; Joel had just enough experience to be relevant That one connection opened the door to a new industry and a new country Every step of his career since traces back to that trip to Montreal [00:07:00] What Inspires Him Gets a bird's eye view of tech across fintechs, AI, semiconductors, and more Works directly with founders, CMOs, and CEOs of innovative companies Has helped companies go from unknown to dominant positions in their markets [00:08:30] Client Impact A niche plywood replacement client started getting people knocking on their door from PR alone Several clients successfully raised investment rounds after investors cited media coverage All contracts are month to month; some clients have stayed for over three years Retaining clients through results rather than contracts is the proof of delivery [00:11:30] Starting the Business: The Boss Who Fired Him Was called into a hearing to be fired at the start of Covid Kept his cool and told his boss he understood and didn't take it personally That same boss became a mentor and referred several of his first clients Joel's wife co-founded the business with him; their relationship has been foundational [00:13:00] Scaling the Business: A Former Colleague A former colleague he stayed close with over the years eventually joined his team That person brought in key client relationships that led to major results The companies he helped raise in the US all came through this one relationship Maintaining cordial connections over time is what made it possible [00:13:30] Saving the Business: The Madrid Meeting After October 7th, Israeli tech clients sent staff into reserve duty overnight Lost half the client base almost overnight A founder from South America emailed out of nowhere; they met in Madrid by chance That relationship became a client and turned the company around [00:17:00] Vision Going Forward Wants to scale without sacrificing service quality Growing through relationships rather than cold outreach remains the core model Using AI to handle busy work so the team has more time with clients Boutique, high-quality, and relationship-driven is the identity they will not trade away [00:19:30] What Makes Them Different Most agencies charge $15,000 to $25,000 a month and put junior staff on accounts At Strauss Communications, senior people handle everything Contracts are month to month; they have to earn it every single time That pressure is what keeps the work sharp and the results consistent [00:20:00] Why He Started His Own Agency Was hired in-house at a tech company and told to bring in expensive PR firms It was him landing TechCrunch and Reuters; the firms were getting paid for his work Saw the gap and built an agency that actually delivered at the senior level [00:23:30] Thinking Broader Than Coverage Most agencies just pitch placements; Strauss Communications thinks strategically Also offers white papers and content with both PR and marketing value Measurable deliverables make it easier for marketing teams to justify the spend A webinar built from one piece of content recently generated 150 sign-ups [00:25:00] Final Word: Relationships Are a Cultural Advantage Noticed that relationship building is more open in Israel and Spain than in the US In the US, getting to the CEO requires going through several gatekeepers first Being of service and being known for it builds a reputation that compounds over time   KEY QUOTES "Every step of my story is intimately intertwined with personal relationships." - Joel Strauss "A lot of good and innovation can happen when people are more open to giving of themselves and giving their time." - Joel Strauss CONNECT WITH JOEL STRAUSS Website: https://www.strausscomms.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelstrauss1   Thanks for tuning in! If you liked my show, please LEAVE A 5-STAR REVIEW, like, and subscribe! Find me on: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | iHeart Radio | Stitcher

CJ Appenzeller built a 550-square-foot storage space into a five-location training operation across South Jersey — and he did it without sacrificing the technical excellence that made him an industry expert. In this episode, CJ breaks down the exact framework he uses to scale coaching expertise across multiple locations: how he documents every movement standard into a "playbook" course shell, why he hires great people over great coaches, and the hard-and-fast training convictions that keep his product consistent at scale. We also go deep on the ego death required to stop being the technician, the Dunning-Kruger trap that makes experienced coaches harder to onboard than beginners, and why the gray area in your coaching standards is slowly killing your business. What you'll learn: The "playbook" system CJ uses to onboard coaches and maintain quality across 5 locations Why hiring people with zero coaching experience often beats hiring experienced coaches How to turn technical expertise into a scalable business (without losing what made you great) The pre-mortem exercise that reframes your entire career How to build industry authority through content, coaching trees & relentless curiosity Why having hard convictions — not nuance — is what actually scales

Many healthcare organizations face the challenge of centralizing marketing initiatives across local offices or different departments. In this week's episode, our CEO Jenny shares a model for successfully implementing shared marketing services that's especially useful for private equity groups, expanding hospital systems, and nationwide organizations that offer local autonomy. By collaborating with individual teams, rather than forcing mandates, organizations can minimize teams “going rogue” and producing off-brand materials.The Four-Pillar Shared Marketing ModelSelf-Serve Brand Toolkit: Provide an easy-to-use digital asset management (DAM) system or use tools like Canva Enterprise, to allow teams to customize approved templates with relevant information, making it easier for them to stay on-brand than to create their own materials from scratch.Network Effect and Knowledge Sharing: Treat the organization like a marketing laboratory by testing strategies in one market and productizing successful results to roll out to other locations. This ensures offices benefit from collective intelligence rather than just purchasing individual services.Centralized Strategy with Local Execution: Have the headquarters handle time-consuming, expensive tasks like strategy development and creative asset production. This offers a financial incentive for local offices to opt in, while still allowing them to manage their own local media buys.Shared Reporting Dashboard: Develop a performance dashboard that provides leadership with a macro view of the total marketing ecosystem while allowing teams to drill down into their specific micro performance. This provides value for local offices by solving complex infrastructure and analytical challenges.Connect with Jenny:Email: jenny@hedyandhopp.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennybristow/If you enjoyed this episode, we'd love to hear your feedback! Please consider leaving us a review on your preferred listening platform and sharing it with others.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Abioduni Martin.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Abioduni Martin.

⭐ INTERESTED IN FRANCHISE OWNERSHIP? Schedule a call with one of our coaches today!  https://www.francoach.net/ 

Tom and Mark interview some of Chicago's Brightest Real Estate Stars during a Renovo Networking Event featuring an interview of Thad Wong! Discussions range from areas investors are targeting in Chicago, breaking down the MRED and Zillow lawsuits, and lessons learned on luxury developments and operating apartment buildings. This show is full of wisdom from some of the best minds in Chicago Real Estate so have your notepad ready!  If you enjoy today's episode, please leave us a review and share with someone who may also find value in this content! ============= Connect with Mark and Tom: StraightUpChicagoInvestor.com Email the Show: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Properties for Sale on the North Side?  We want to buy them. Email: StraightUpChicagoInvestor@gmail.com Have a vacancy? We can place your next tenant and give you back 30-40 hours of your time. Learn more: GCRealtyInc.com/tenant-placement Has Property Mgmt become an opportunity cost for you? Let us lower your risk and give you your time back to grow. Learn more: GCRealtyinc.com ============= Guests: Some of Chicago's Brightest Real Estate Stars during a Renovo Networking Event--including an interview with Thad Wong Link: Thad Wong Link: SUCI Ep 381 - Kevin Werner Link: SUCI Ep 255 - Eric Workman Link: SUCI Ep 368 - Joe Smazal and Ann Keilly Link: SUCI Ep 326 - RJ de Leon Link: Flora Blahnik Team Guest Questions:  03:17 Investing in Elgin with Mark Fostrom. 09:12 Renovo's formula to success with Kevin Werner! 17:18 Daniel Rosen discusses the evolution of Renovo. 26:23 Scaling a podcast and multi-family with Joe Smazal. 40:03 State of RE Brokerage with Luke Blahnik and Anthony Flora. 49:40 Luxury developments with RJ de Leon. 58:26 Renovation market in NW Indiana with Daniela Rodriguez. 66:22 Workman Lending Team's outlook on Chicago and business growth! ----------------- Production House: Flint Stone Media Copyright of Straight Up Chicago Investor 2026.

Hyla Nayeri co-founded 437, a bootstrapped activewear brand, into an eight-figure business— and she did it by simplifying ruthlessly, betting on organic social and influencer marketing, and protecting a culture that includes a four-day workweek. For more on 437 and show notes click here Subscribe and watch Shopify Masters on YouTube!Sign up for your FREE Shopify Trial here.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Abioduni Martin.

Today I'm talking to Bill Tyndall, who helped build Electric AI from an idea into a company approaching a billion-dollar valuation, raised $211M across eight funding rounds, and now serves as CEO of Techvera. Bill has spent his career building companies around automation, IT, cybersecurity, and digital transformation. But his biggest lesson isn't just about AI. It's about capacity. We get into why AI is a capacity multiplier—not a magic fix—how companies create artificial bottlenecks inside their own operations, and why clean data, better routing, strong documentation, and faster adoption may matter more than simply throwing new tools at the problem. Bill also opens up about the founder side of the journey: what it felt like to take money off the table, why a big exit didn't create the happiness he expected, and how he now thinks about purpose, delegation, acquisitions, identity, and building a healthier company.   Key Takeaways with Bill Tyndall (01:55) Business vs. Purpose (03:07) Will AI Kill Managed Service Providers? (04:40) Running a Business Like a Football Team (06:44) The Injury That Ended the NFL Dream (09:21) Why a "Boring" Industry Attracted $211M (14:50) What an MSP Actually Does (Plain English) (19:32) Artificial Capacity Constraints - $17M to $38M in 1 Year (23:22) Building Faster With AI Tools (26:38) Why He Walked Away From a $1 Billion Company (31:09) When Money Doesn't Fix Happiness (37:25) How to Avoid Regret After An Exit (39:17) Effective Delegation  (41:55) The Problem with Roll-Ups (46:12) Acquisition Integration Challenges (49:28) The First 120 Days After an Acquisition (51:22) Returning To The CEO Seat (54:38) AI As A Capacity Multiplier (58:11) AI Governance & Control (01:00:10) Advice For Young Entrepreneurs   Watch on YouTube: https://youtu.be/oB-X1bAyF80     Let's Connect: Website | Instagram | YouTube | TikTok | Twitter | Facebook

Codifying your knowledge into intellectual property (IP) is a crucial step for scaling any business, but what my guest Mo Bunnell shared in this episode completely changed my perspective on how to do it and the incredible impact it can have. Mo, author of Give to Grow and founder of the Bundle Idea Group, has built an astonishing career training professionals at some of the world's most prestigious organizations. He walked me through the evolution of his IP, from humble beginnings to the sophisticated materials he uses today to secure multi-six-figure contracts. This isn't something he typically breaks down publicly, and I was genuinely surprised by the tangible examples and actionable steps he provided for transforming a service-based business into an IP-driven powerhouse.Timestamps:00:00 Introduction02:29 Codifying your system in a weekend05:07 From intuition to framework: creating IP08:00 The evolution of training materials11:20 Essential elements of effective IP18:30 The economics of B2B and corporate clients21:00 How to get your first pilot clients26:00 Overcoming B2B objections29:00 Translating B2C IP to B2B corporate world31:00 Identifying high-leverage industries and roles34:00 Lowering the bar on perfection for B2B37:00 Lead magnets for decision-makers vs. users41:40 Advanced lead magnet strategies45:20 The power of public workshops49:40 Scaling beyond yourself: travel and certification52:45 Michael Hyatt's Business Accelerator growth56:00 The annuity effect of corporate trainingIf you enjoyed this episode, please like and subscribe, share it with your friends, and leave a review. I read every single one.Learn more about the podcast: https://nathanbarry.com/showFollow Nathan:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nathanbarryLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathanbarryX: https://twitter.com/nathanbarryYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@thenathanbarryshowWebsite: https://nathanbarry.comKit: https://www.kit.comFollow Mo:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mobunnellBunnell Idea Group: https://bunnellideagroup.comYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCd0dvX8kfxF_MMz6IZT17kwGive to Grow: https://bunnellideagroup.com/givetogrowFeatured in this episode:Kit: https://www.kit.comThe Snowball System: How to Win More Business and Turn Customers into Raving Fans: https://www.amazon.com/Snowball-System-Business-Customers-Raving/dp/1640950343Unreasonable Hospitality: https://www.amazon.com/Unreasonable-Hospitality-Remarkable-Giving-People/dp/0593418193Highlights:01:04 – How Mo started codifying his IP04:08 – The power of IP to scale a business11:22 – Four components of world-class IP18:49 – The "this changes everything" B2B opportunity37:04 – Lead magnets for buyers versus users43:09 – James Clear's strategic review request56:00 – The annuity model of B2B corporate training

#933 I'm noticing a dangerous pattern for entrepreneurs, and AI is making things much worse! You see, there's nothing wrong with the traditional scaling advice of removing yourself as a bottleneck in your business. But there's also an automation and hiring trap destroying brands left and right! Over the years, I've seen and fallen for the dark side of delegating everything. That's why you should join me for this session to learn about common pitfalls to avoid as you begin to scale! I'll share the duties you should definitely automate or delegate as soon as possible. But more importantly, I'll walk you through my Human Scale Matrix to uncover the tasks your business thrives on. You should never hand these over to anyone else, so tune in to get this vital framework! Don't miss this episode because scaling isn't about removing yourself from your business. It's about removing yourself from the right parts of your business while doubling down on the parts that only you can do! Show notes and more at SmartPassiveIncome.com/session933.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What would you choose: $1 million cash or 100 million followers? A business that pays you forever or one you can sell for millions? Growth or profit? Brand or reputation? In this episode, Brian and Adam put each other in the hot seat with a series of "Would You Rather?" questions covering business, marketing, leadership, wealth building, entrepreneurship, family, and legacy. The answers aren't always obvious, and the conversations behind the decisions reveal how successful entrepreneurs think. Whether you're building a business, growing your brand, or trying to create long-term wealth, this episode will challenge your assumptions and get you thinking differently about success. Grab a notebook and play along as you decide which side you'd pick.

Listen and subscribe to Money Making Conversations on iHeartRadio, Apple Podcasts, Spotify, www.moneymakingconversations.com/subscribe/ or wherever you listen to podcasts. New Money Making Conversations episodes drop daily. I want to alert you, so you don’t miss out on expert analysis and insider perspectives from my guests who provide tips that can help you uplift the community, improve your financial planning, motivation, or advice on how to be a successful entrepreneur. Keep winning! Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning, television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviewed Monica Cornitcher. Entrepreneurial journey, the inspiration behind Medase Cocktails, and the realities of launching, funding, and scaling a premium nonalcoholic spirits brand in a highly competitive market. Purpose of the Conversation The purpose of the episode is to: Educate aspiring entrepreneurs on how to build a differentiated consumer brand Demonstrate the importance of storytelling, market clarity, and operational discipline Highlight the growth of the nonalcoholic / zero‑proof beverage movement Inspire founders—especially founders of color—to own their niche, seek capital strategically, and scale intentionally. Key Takeaways 1. Business Built from Personal Need and Purpose Medase Cocktails was co‑founded by Monica and her lifelong friend during her friend’s battle with breast cancer, a time when alcohol was no longer an option—but celebration still mattered. The brand was created to allow people to celebrate authentically without alcohol It carries emotional depth rooted in friendship, gratitude, and loss Monica continues the mission after her co‑founder passed away in 2024 Lesson: Purpose-driven businesses create deeper emotional connection and long-term brand equity. 2. Differentiation Is Everything Monica deliberately rejected the “sparkling water with flavor” model common in nonalcoholic drinks. Her differentiators include: Authentic cocktail taste (Old Fashioned, Margarita, Moscow Mule) Organic juices, not artificial flavors Bold packaging that stands out on shelves Drinks designed to smell, taste, and feel like real cocktails Lesson: Competing on authenticity—not cost—is how you carve out market share in crowded spaces. 3. Brand Names and Stories Matter The name “Medase” means “thank you” and reflects gratitude, friendship, and emotional support. Monica emphasizes: Every flavor name, color, and product decision has a story A strong brand narrative creates curiosity, loyalty, and investor interest Lesson: People invest in brands they feel—emotionally, not just intellectually. 4. Venture Capital Is Not Just About Numbers While financials matter, Monica stresses that VCs also invest in founders and stories. What helped her secure venture capital: A compelling personal story Relevant founder skill sets (M&A, law, operations) Clear understanding of the market opportunity Lesson: Early-stage funding often depends on who you are and why you’re building, not just revenue. 5. Research, Planning, and Discipline Before Launch Unlike many food startups, Medase did not begin in a kitchen. They: Conducted a feasibility study Built a formal business plan Worked with a Black female food scientist Set strict personal funding limits before seeking capital Lesson: Preparation reduces risk and builds long-term sustainability. 6. Scaling Requires Operational Maturity As sales increased—especially on Amazon—Monica emphasized the need to move from “hustle mode” to operational excellence. Key scaling principles: Understand unit economics Track ROI for events and activations Adjust pricing as volume increases Build strategy across marketing, operations, and distribution Lesson: Hustle starts the business; operations grow it. 7. Niche First, Expansion Later Medase does not try to be “everything to everyone.” Core customers include: People seeking a break from alcohol Health-conscious consumers Black men looking for alcohol replacements Consumers wanting cocktail taste without hangovers Lesson: Strong niches create loyal advocates who fuel organic growth. 8. Smart Distribution Strategy Rather than rushing into retail, Monica prioritized direct-to-consumer channels: Amazon (top-performing channel) Brand website TikTok Shop Only after 6–7 months of traction did retail expansion become viable. Lesson: Control your margins and demand before entering expensive retail environments. Memorable Quotes “I wanted an authentic cocktail without compromise.” “Everything we do has a story behind it.” “Sometimes it’s not about the financials—it’s about the founder and the story.” “Don’t be everything to everybody. Find your market and stick with your market.” “Hustle starts the business, but operations give you scale.” “If it tastes too much like alcohol and you gave me a one-star review—thank you. That means I did my job.” Overall Message This episode is a real-world entrepreneurial blueprint showing how clarity of vision, emotional authenticity, disciplined planning, and niche focus can turn a personal idea into a scalable national brand. Monica Cornitcher exemplifies the modern founder:visionary, data-aware, emotionally intelligent, and unapologetically authentic. #SHMS #BEST #STRAWSupport the show: https://www.steveharveyfm.com/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.