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Send us Fan MailBailey of Pizza Boy Metal Works (@pizzaboymetalworks) joins me to talk shop... when, how, what to know in advance and the costs associated with bespoke custom parts for our race cars... do you have a poorly supported car or want to stand out on IG? you need these parts! Support the show
If you think AI is just another productivity tool your business can bolt on to stay ahead, Shawn Busse has a wake-up call for you. In this riveting conversation, Brandon Laws sits down with Shawn Busse, founder of marketing firm Kinesis, keynote speaker, and one of the sharpest strategic thinkers in the business world, to unpack a truth that most leaders aren't ready to hear: AI isn't going to save companies that have optimized the creativity out of themselves. Shawn draws on provocative ideas from "The Great Rotation" by Latticework, Kent Beck's explore-expand-extract model, and Blue Ocean Strategy to build a compelling case that decades of Wall Street-driven optimization have left businesses intellectually hollowed out, right at the moment when original thinking matters most. From the collapse of "AI slop" content marketing to the resurgence of the physical, tactile "3D world," this episode is packed with ideas that will challenge how you think about your organization, your people, and your competitive future. Key Timestamps [00:01] Welcome and Introduction Brandon introduces Shawn Busse and the central thesis of the episode: AI is not going to save uncreative, non-innovative companies. [01:20] "The Great Rotation": AI and the Supply Shock in the Digital World Shawn unpacks the Latticework article that crystallized his thinking: how AI has turbocharged oversupply in the 2D digital world and why the 3D, tangible world is where value is shifting next. [04:52] The Rise of "AI Slop" and Why Playing the Volume Game Is a Losing Strategy The conversation turns to how AI-generated content floods channels with "halfway decent" material, and why competing on volume alone is a dead end for businesses. [07:00] Real-World AI Use Cases: Bookkeeping, Contracts, and Appraisals Shawn shares his own eye-opening experiences using AI to replace a $700 bookkeeping task and to expose critical flaws in a real estate appraisal at zero cost, illustrating how AI is moving up market one low-risk task at a time. [11:34] Business Is in a Crisis of Creativity Shawn delivers his TED talk moment: how 40+ years of Wall Street-driven optimization has squeezed creativity out of corporate America, and how AI is now wiping out the very jobs that optimization produced. [13:00] The ADP Effect: When Profit Becomes the Enemy of Innovation Using ADP as a case study, Shawn examines how large companies generate extraordinary profit margins while actively cutting employees and delivering diminishing value, and what that signals for the future. [19:31] The Subscription Trap: How Innovation Gave Way to Lock-In From HP printers to Adobe to Google, Shawn traces the arc of once-great innovators who traded breakthrough products for recurring revenue extraction, and why AI may finally break those lock-ins. [22:43] Kent Beck's Model: Explore, Expand, Extract, and What Comes Next Shawn walks through Kent Beck's framework for understanding business lifecycles and makes the case that AI's real opportunity isn't labor replacement; it's unlocking entirely new ways to create value. [24:40] A Live Example: Using AI to Transform LinkedIn Marketing Strategy Shawn shares a compelling real client story, using AI to analyze a year's worth of LinkedIn data across 18 employees, and the surprising insights about storytelling that emerged with zero expensive subscriptions required. [28:48] 10% GDP Growth and 10% Unemployment: Weighing Dario Amodei's Prediction Brandon raises the Anthropic CEO's striking economic forecast. Shawn offers a grounded, honest take: respect the prediction, don't panic, but don't ignore it either. [31:43] From Skeptic to Believer: Shawn's Own AI Journey Shawn reflects on how he went from dismissing AI as Silicon Valley hype to making it a core part of his strategic worldview, and why maintaining a beginner's mind is harder than it sounds. [33:07] The Opportunity for Small Business: Where Small Can Beat Big Why the democratization of software through AI could give small and mid-sized businesses their best competitive opportunity in decades, if they're willing to think creatively. [35:02] The Digital Rejection Wave: Phones, Schools, and Anxious Generations The conversation broadens to the rising cultural pushback against screen saturation, what it means for the next workforce, and why the "soft skills" of curiosity, empathy, and communication may be the most AI-proof assets a person can have. [38:35] Blue Ocean Strategy: The Best Answer to an AI-Commoditized World Shawn closes with his rallying cry: stop competing in red oceans of optimized mediocrity and start creating things that have never existed before. AI can optimize what already exists, but it cannot imagine what doesn't yet. A QUICK GLIMPSE INTO OUR PODCAST Podcast: Transform Your Workplace, sponsored by Xenium HR Host: Brandon Laws In Brandon's own words: "The Transform Your Workplace podcast is your go-to source for the latest workplace trends, big ideas, and time-tested methods straight from the mouths of industry experts and respected thought-leaders." About Xenium HR Xenium HR is on a mission to transform workplaces by providing expert outsourced HR and payroll services for small and medium-sized businesses. With a people-first approach, Xenium helps organizations create thriving work environments where employees feel valued and supported. From navigating compliance to enhancing workplace culture, Xenium offers tailored solutions that empower growth and simplify HR. Whether managing employee relations, payroll processing, or implementing impactful training programs, Xenium is the trusted partner businesses rely on to elevate their workplace experience. Discover how Xenium can transform your workplace: Learn more Connect with Brandon Laws: LinkedIn | Instagram | About Connect with Xenium HR: Website | LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube
Lauren Mellor and Chantelle Johns from Original Power on their mission to take the power back for First Nations communities in the Northern Territory.
In this episode, Dr. Shari Simpson talks with Christy Engler about the unique HR challenges faced by small businesses and how to address them effectively. Listeners will learn why even small organizations need robust HR practices, the importance of having a solid foundation in HR, and how to foster a positive workplace culture while remaining compliant with laws. By the end of the episode, you will understand actionable steps to enhance your HR strategy and support your organization's growth. • Small businesses need to prioritize HR even with few employees. • Establishing a strong HR foundation is crucial for success. • Outsourcing payroll and benefits can save time and resources. • Engaging with local communities can enhance recruitment efforts. • Building a network of HR peers provides valuable support. 00:00 -- Introduction to the episode 00:33 -- Christy's passion for small business HR 01:48 -- Unique HR challenges in small businesses 02:21 -- Importance of addressing people problems quickly 04:27 -- Common myths about HR in small businesses 05:24 -- The need for HR even in small teams 06:02 -- Foundations for effective HR practices 07:10 -- Changing the narrative around HR policies 09:00 -- Automations for small HR teams 10:57 -- The role of brokers in HR support 12:23 -- Utilizing HR communities for resources 13:24 -- Common mistakes small businesses make 15:16 -- Competing for talent in small businesses 17:08 -- First steps for new HR leaders 19:00 -- Encouragement for HR professionals Guest(s): Christy Engler, Owner of New Day HR. She provides practical HR solutions for small and growing businesses. With over 20 years of experience in small business HR, she focuses on helping organizations protect their people and reduce risk. Keywords: HR practices, small business HR, employee engagement, HR foundations, outsourcing payroll, recruitment strategies, HR community support, small business challenges, compliance in HR, building workplace culture
Jason Fried didn't follow the startup rules most founders swear by. He rejected venture capital, refused to chase growth at all costs, and chose to stay small on purpose. What started as a scrappy web design agency turned into Basecamp, a multi-million-dollar business built on profitability, simplicity, and conviction. In this episode, Jason joins Ilana to challenge everything you think you know about scaling a business. He also opens up about how a single leadership decision caused 30% of his company to quit overnight, and how staying principled ultimately made the company stronger. Jason Fried is the co-founder and CEO of 37signals, the company behind Basecamp and HEY. For over 27 years, he has grown Basecamp into a multi-million dollar business without ever taking venture capital or chasing aggressive growth targets. In this episode, Ilana and Jason will discuss: (00:00) Introduction (03:18) Lessons from Selling Stereo Equipment as a Kid (06:58) Starting 37signals from Scratch (14:13) Pivoting to Software Through Basecamp (16:41) The Perks of Being a Small Company (27:24) The Policy That Made 30% of the Company Quit (31:45) Surviving the Backlash and Rebuilding the Team (39:21) Building Thicker Skin as a Leader (42:43) How to Incorporate AI Without Getting Carried Away (45:15) How Basecamp Is Reinventing Itself with Version 5 (48:56) Why Jason Won't Advise His Younger Self (54:07) Q&A: How to Decide Your Next Career Move Jason Fried is a co-founder and CEO of 37signals, the makers of Basecamp. He is a bestselling author of Rework and It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work. Known for his contrarian approach to entrepreneurship, Jason emphasizes simplicity, profitability, and long-term thinking. For over 27 years, he has grown Basecamp into a multi-million dollar, fully profitable business without ever taking venture capital or chasing aggressive growth targets. Connect with Jason: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jason-fried X: https://x.com/jasonfried Resources Mentioned: Jason's Books: Rework: https://www.amazon.com/Rework-Jason-Fried/dp/0307463745 It Doesn't Have to Be Crazy at Work: https://www.amazon.com/Doesnt-Have-Be-Crazy-Work/dp/0062874780 37signals' Website: https://37signals.com Basecamp's Website: https://basecamp.com Leap Academy: Ready to make the LEAP in your career? There is a NEW WAY for professionals to fast-track their careers and leap to bigger opportunities. Check out our free training today at https://bit.ly/leap--free-training
This week Laura and Kevin sit down with Bruno Lecoq, CEO of BEMO, to talk about the reality of cybersecurity for small and mid-sized defense contractors. Bruno shares how he ended up leading a cybersecurity company and why smaller organizations, especially those connected to the defense supply chain, have become some of the most attractive targets for attackers. The conversation challenges the common belief that hackers only focus on big-name companies and instead explains what's actually happening on the ground for organizations with 50 to 100 employees. From there, we dig into the difference between security theater and real protection. Bruno explains why fear-driven compliance advice often leads companies to spend more money without meaningfully reducing risk, who benefits from that cycle, and where organizations tend to invest in tools that look impressive but don't actually stop breaches. We also get into practical issues leaders overlook, like admin access and identity controls, which are often the simplest path into a company network. We wrap with a candid look at real-world constraints. If a company passes every audit but still gets breached, what does that say about compliance frameworks like CMMC, SOC 2, and NIST SP 800-171? And looking ahead, Bruno weighs in on what's more likely to cause damage over the next five years: sophisticated AI-powered attacks or companies continuing to ignore the basic security controls that stop most breaches today.Bruno Lecoq is the CEO of BEMO and a trusted voice in cybersecurity compliance for US-based small and mid-sized defense contractors. He works hands-on with business owners, IT leaders, and executives to turn complex regulatory frameworks into practical, achievable compliance outcomes. With deep expertise across CMMC, SOC 2, ISO 27001, HIPAA, and NIST 800, Bruno is known for his calm, implementation-first approach. Rather than promoting fear or over-engineered solutions, he helps organizations align compliance requirements with the tools, processes, and systems they already use, particularly within Microsoft environments.
Large companies want to work with small and medium-sized suppliers to benefit from their scrappy, innovative spirit. Small companies want to work with large enterprises so they can develop the processes and systems required to grow… that and for the sake of revenue stability. In this episode of The Sourcing Hero podcast, Host Kelly Barner welcomes Bronwyn Reid. Bronwyn is the Founder of Small Company, Big Business, where she helps small to medium-sized enterprises translate how large organizations think, procure, and assess risk into practical actions that SMEs can execute. Bronwyn shares her experience working on both ends of the large supplier - small supplier continuum to address: Why large enterprises and small to medium-sized businesses struggle to get along The communications and understanding best practices that can help them both The incentives that exist for small suppliers and large companies to 'get it right' by working together more effectively Links: Bronwyn Reid on LinkedIn
The small company that fought Trump's tariffs and won Guest: Stephen Woldenberg SVP of Sales, Learning Resources.
2026 has been a whirlwind so far. It's the end of February, but it feels like we've done a full year's worth of work already. Jim and Alayna take a moment from their busy schedules to tell us about new products, plans for growth, and how LodeStar knocks conference season out of the ballpark.
Energy Sector Heroes ~ Careers in Oil & Gas, Sustainability & Renewable Energy
If you're early in your career or you've moved faster than you expected into responsibility this episode is for you. Many people in the energy sector worry about whether they're “ready enough”, whether they've moved too quickly, or whether choosing a smaller company might limit future options. These questions matter because the early decisions you make often shape confidence, capability, and long term direction more than job titles ever will.In this episode of Energy Sector Heroes, I'm joined by Cameron Thorp, Engineering Manager at Subsea Pressure Controls. Cameron shares what it's really like stepping into a senior role at a young age, managing people with more experience than you, and building credibility without decades on your CV. We talk honestly about imposter syndrome, chartership, mentoring, interviews, and why being proactive often matters more than ticking every requirement box.This is a grounded conversation about learning by doing, making deliberate career moves, and backing yourself even when it feels uncomfortable.Key Takeaways You Can Act On
In this episode of Cybersecurity Today, host Jim Love welcomes David Shipley, CEO of Beauceron Security, as a guest. Together, they delve into the latest research from Beauceron Security with assistance from he University of Montreal. They discuss the effectiveness of phishing simulations, the importance of reporting suspicious activities, and the psychological factors that lead to clicking on phishing emails. The episode also highlights the surprising advantages small businesses have over larger organizations in phishing defense, and how management's attitude towards cybersecurity significantly impacts a company's overall security culture. Don't miss this thorough, insightful conversation that will change how you think about cybersecurity training and culture! Cybersecurity Today would like to thank Meter for their support in bringing you this podcast. Meter delivers a complete networking stack, wired, wireless and cellular in one integrated solution that's built for performance and scale. You can find them at Meter.com/cst 00:00 Introduction and Sponsor Message 00:19 Meet the Guest: David Shipley 01:46 David's Research with University of Montreal 02:17 Phishing Simulation Training Insights 03:16 The Importance of Real Research 04:30 Human Risk Management vs. Security Awareness 05:49 Understanding Phishing and Its Impact 11:10 The Role of Technology and Human Resilience 14:34 Effective Phishing Training Strategies 19:02 Analyzing Click Behavior and Reporting 27:17 Why People Click: Survey Insights 36:07 High Click Rates and Psychological Safety 38:13 Management's Role in Cybersecurity Culture 39:29 Impact of Tenure and Compensation on Click Rates 40:58 The Importance of Security Awareness Programs 43:35 Feedback and Reporting in Cybersecurity 54:12 Small Companies vs. Large Companies in Cybersecurity 56:44 Surprising Findings and Future Directions 01:02:12 Conclusion and Report Availability
AI has changed cybersecurity completely.Small companies can no longer “fly under the radar.” With AI being used as a hacking tool, every business - regardless of size - is now a target. Justin Shaken explains why this matters and what companies need to understand moving forward.Watch the full episode: https://youtu.be/DsWyNfZA_-4Global Dealer Solutions offers a network of high-performance providers while remaining product agnostic. Knowing which tools to deploy makes a big difference. Having a trusted adviser; priceless. Schedule your complimentary consultation today. https://calendly.com/don-278. BE THE 1ST TO KNOW. LIKE and FOLLOW HERE www.linkedin.com/company/fixed-ops-marketinghttps://www.youtube.com/channel/@fixedopsmarketingGet watch and listen links, as well as full episodes and shorts: www.fixedopsmarketing.com/wtfJoin Managing Partner and Host, Russell B. Hill and Charity Dunning, Co-Host and Chief Marketing Officer of FixedOPS Marketing, as we discuss life, automotive, and the human journey in WTF?!#podcast #automotive #fixedoperations
PREVIEW S&P 500 AND SMALL COMPANIES EMBRACE AI TO BOOST PRODUCTIVITY Colleague Gene Marks. Gene Marks discusses how S&P 500 and small companies embrace Artificial Intelligence to boost workforce productivity. Despite concerns regarding accuracy and security, Marks argues that businesses utilize AI for efficiency—handling low-risk tasks like emails—rather than displacing workers, ultimately aiming to empower employees and streamline operations. 1953
It's Throwback Thursday, and we revisit a strategy call between Rich and the owner of a small kitchen and bathroom company in upstate New York. A few years ago, they paid about a thousand dollars to build a small, 9-page website… and despite the site NOT doing a lot of the things that Rich preaches on this podcast, the site seems to be doing "well enough" at generating enough leads to keep them as busy as they want to be. Does Rich have a bigger vision for them? Of course he does! But since the company is so small… and essentially has no budget… he goes into Bob Villa mode and shows them how to do it themselves.
What if your first security hire wasn't a person, but a simple, guided program that made sense to everyone in your company? In this conversation, Sidekick founder and CEO Phil Howie breaks down how SMBs can build a security and privacy practice from the ground up—long before they can afford a full internal team. We cover the reality of compliance vs real security, working with MSPs, the role of design in security tools, and how founders should think about AI, governance, and future regulation. If you're a founder trying to grow in regulated markets, this one's for you. Phil: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philhowie Sidekick: https://www.sidekick.co Jon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jon-mclachlan/ Sasha: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliaksandr-sinkevich/ YSecurity: https://www.ysecurity.io/
In This Episode What does it take to turn a small business into a valuable, scalable enterprise? That's the focus of this conversation with Michael Crow. In her interview, host Adi Klevit explores Michael's journey from corporate executive to serial entrepreneur. Michael explains how he leveraged acquisitions to build companies, why systems are the backbone of scaling, and how staying ahead of technology trends makes or breaks growth. He also shares his approach to integrating small businesses into franchise platforms to accelerate their performance. Michael highlights the importance of processes and procedures in preparing for a business sale. Together with Adi, he emphasizes that scaling a company isn't just about making it attractive for buyers—it's about creating a business that can run without the owner. Their discussion provides a clear roadmap for entrepreneurs who want to maximize value and achieve freedom through systemization.
“If you're not an AI company right now, it's almost impossible to raise venture capital.” Darren Marble dives into the world of equity crowdfunding, a “multibillion” dollar sector that lets companies raise money from non-accredited retail investors. For small companies that have a brand and a community, this could be the right move, he argues. His firm runs a platform to facilitate this: “we think this is the future.” He describes some of the process for interested in companies.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about
The aviation MRO market is hot, hot, hot, which is drawing big investments. Listen as editors discuss M&A trends, billions of dollars of recent investments in the aftermarket and why smaller, niche companies are growing but not getting gobbled up. Hosted by Lee Ann Shay with Michael Bruno, Aviation Week's executive editor for business, and James Pozzi, MRO editor for Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
When PagerDuty went public in 2019, it was generating just $100 million in annual revenue which made it relatively small for a SaaS IPO. One of the main motivations for this was that visibility into the company's financials would inspire customer trust. In this episode, CJ speaks with Howard Wilson, PagerDuty's CFO, who shares the unique challenges of going public as a small company, how the landscape has changed since then, and how to approach an IPO when you don't have the experts you need in-house. As a former chief commercial officer, Howard brings unique insights into the role of a CFO. He discusses the importance of building a finance team with customer awareness, how he uses customer usage patterns to challenge traditional SaaS metrics, and how to uncover the unexpected pathways that customers take to reach your business. He also talks about the complexities of the “beat and raise" forecast, how market volatility creates opportunity, and breaks down his framework for mapping out potential investment areas.—LINKS:Howard Wilson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/howardwilson01/PagerDuty: https://www.pagerduty.com/CJ on X (@cjgustafson222): https://x.com/cjgustafson222Mostly metrics: http://mostlymetrics.com—TIMESTAMPS:(00:00) Preview and Intro(02:08) Sponsor – Planful | Tabs | Rippling Spend(06:01) Earnings Calls and Being a Public Company CFO(11:14) How the Bar for Going Public Has Changed Since 2019(14:04) How Going Public Affects Customer Trust(15:50) Sponsor – Pulley | Navan | NetSuite(19:34) Approaching the IPO Process Without the Necessary Experts In-House(21:47) Using Advisors To Fill Functional Gaps in Small Companies(24:38) The IPO Tech Stack for Small Companies(25:44) The Complexities of the “Beat and Raise” Forecast(28:33) How Market Volatility Creates Opportunity(34:37) How Experience as a Chief Commercial Officer Makes a Better CFO(38:16) A Framework for Mapping Out Potential Investment Areas(44:08) Customer Awareness in Your Finance Organisation(47:47) Customer Usage Patterns Versus Traditional SaaS Metrics(52:16) The Unexpected Pathways Customers Take To Reach Your Business(57:54) Long-Ass Lightning Round: A Learning Mindset(59:22) Advice to Younger Self: Don't Stay in Your Lane(01:01:24) Finance Software Stack(01:02:57) Craziest Expense Story—SPONSORS:Planful's financial planning software can transform your FP&A function. Built for speed, accuracy, and confidence, you'll be planning your way to success and have time left over to actually put it to work. Find out more at www.planful.com/metrics.Tabs is a platform that brings all of your revenue-facing data and workflows - billing, AR, payments, rev rec, and reporting - onto a single system so you can automate and be more flexible. Find out more at: tabs.inc/metrics.Rippling Spend is a spend management software that gives you complete visibility and automated policy controls across every type of spend, saving you time and money. Get a demo to see how much time your org would save at rippling.com/metrics.Pulley is the cap table management platform built for CFOs and finance leaders who need reliable, audit-ready data and intuitive workflows, without the hidden fees or unreliable support. Switch in as little as 5 days and get 25% off your first year: pulley.com/mostlymetrics.Navan is the all-in-one travel and expense solution that helps finance teams streamline reconciliation, enforce policies automatically, and gain real-time visibility. It connects to your existing cards and makes closing the books faster and smarter. Visit navan.com/Runthenumbers for your demo.NetSuite is an AI-powered business management suite, encompassing ERP/Financials, CRM, and ecommerce for more than 41,000 customers. If you're looking for an ERP, head to https://netsuite.com/metrics and get the CFO's Guide to AI and Machine Learning.#goingpublic #SaaSIPO #CustomerTrust #CustomerAwareness #PagerDuty Get full access to Mostly metrics at www.mostlymetrics.com/subscribe
If you're looking for reliable, high-quality commercial cleaning services in Lower Hutt or a surrounding part of the Hutt Valley, Mr Green (0800-674-733) offers a unique business model that guarantees satisfaction. Go to https://local.mrgreenwellingtoncleaning.nz/cleaning-lower-hutt for more information. Mr Green City: Wellington Address: 85 Cortina Avenue Website: https://mrgreenwellingtoncleaning.nz
Mike Switzer interviews David Ginn, president and CEO of the Charleston Regional Development Alliance.
Send us a textIn this week's episode, Paul and Anna had the pleasure of sitting down with Hurdle CEO, Ryan Alsman. They focused on how small businesses can weather the storm of a bad economy and when it is the right time to invest in employee health benefits. At the end, Ryan shared his experience starting a business with a young family at home and how he makes it work. Check out Hurdle: Hurdle Financial Services – Removing financial obstacles so you can run!Music in this episode is Pelicans by Joe Cooney. Check him out on instagram @cooney.tunes !!Follow us on Instagram! @work_dad_podcast
Send us a textKurt Avery, author of the book "Sawyer Think: How a Small Company Disrupts Markets and Changes the World" and Founder and CEO of Sawyer Products, shares his extraordinary journey from the humble beginnings of his Sawyer Products to their monumental impact on the world. His bold entrepreneurial strategies, faith, perseverance, and a mantra of continuous improvement have driven Sawyer Products to revolutionize clean water access globally, beginning with a critical role during the 2010 Haiti earthquake.Kurt discusses the role of technology and data analysis in making these solutions scalable and the importance of philanthropy in supporting community outreach initiatives. With practical insights from his book "Sawyer Think" and the company's commitment to innovation, Kurt Avery illustrates how Sawyer Products continues to push boundaries, proving that small beginnings can indeed lead to extraordinary change.Learn more and connect with Kurt at https://www.sawyer.com/ Order Stephanie's new book Imagine More: Do What You Love, Discover Your Potential Learn more at StephanieNelson.comFollow us on Instagram @stephanie_nelson_cmFollow us on Facebook at CouponMom
In this episode of 'Inspire to Lead,' host Talia Mashiach interviews Rachel Book, the Chief People Officer at CheckAlt. Rachel shares her journey from growing up in Monsey, New York, to working for major corporations like AT&T and transitioning to a smaller, entrepreneurial environment. They discuss the balance and harmony between career and family life, the importance of picking a fulfilling career, and the role of empathy in leadership. Rachel also talks about her approach to HR, performance management, and the necessity of enjoying one's work. With anecdotes from her professional journey and insights into effective life management, Rachel provides a deeply inspiring and practical outlook on ambitious professional life for Jewish women. 00:00 Introduction to Inspire to Lead Podcast 00:29 Meet Rachel Book: From Monsey to Corporate America 02:28 Transitioning from Corporate to Entrepreneurial 07:43 Challenges and Rewards of HR in Small Companies 16:51 Rachel's Early Life and Family Background 21:21 Balancing Career and Family Life 27:30 Navigating the Mommy Wars and Societal Expectations 28:42 Balancing Family and Career 30:40 Permission to Enjoy Your Work 32:15 The Role of Women in Society 34:53 Finding the Right Balance 35:31 Communicating with Family 42:16 Support Systems and Letting Go 46:22 Personal Growth and Community Involvement 48:00 Purpose and Superpowers 50:41 Career Highlights and Advice 55:52 Final Thoughts and Encouragement About Rachel: Rachel Book joined CheckAlt as Chief People Officer in January 2022, bringing over 20 years of HR and Talent Acquisition experience. She has held leadership roles at Stryker, Fidelity Investments, Bloomberg LP, and AT&T, where she led talent acquisition, diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives. Recognized for her transformational leadership, Rachel uses data-driven strategies to enhance organizational performance, employer brand, employee engagement, and diversity. She has led White House-sponsored initiatives for veteran hiring and developed programs for women returning to the workforce. Rachel is a sought-after advisor, speaker, and has been featured in top publications like Entrepreneur.com, Thrive Global, and CNBC. Rachel holds a graduate degree in Industrial/Organizational Psychology from Harvard University and a Bachelor's in Psychology from Thomas Edison State University. She resides in Northern New Jersey with her husband and two teenage sons. https://theorg.com/org/checkalt/org-chart/rachel-book Powered By Roth & Co The JWE For guest suggestions, please email Talia: podcast@thejwe.org
From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2021. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Michael E. Gerber is the author of the NY Times mega-bestseller, for two consecutive decades, "The E-Myth Revisited" and nine other worldwide best-selling E-Myth books concerning small business entrepreneurship, leadership, and management. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. If you're to become someone you're not, or you're to possess something you don't feel, or you're unwilling to go one step further in your life without discovering who you are and why you're here, then The Dreaming Room Online is for you. 2. The entrepreneurial spirit, despite the desire to not experience pain, is incapable of not doing what's necessary to be done despite the pain that comes with it. It's driven from within - from the notion that we're born from the image of God. 3. The four personalities an entrepreneur is comprised of — the dreamer, the thinker, the storyteller, the leader. Transform Your Life. Realize Your Dream. Vision. Purpose. Mission - Michael's website Sponsors HubSpot When you combine the power of Marketing Hub and Content Hub, you can have your best quarter, every quarter. Visit Hubspot.com/marketers to learn more Notion Combines your notes, docs, and projects into one space that's simple and beautifully designed. And now it has the power of AI built right inside of it! Try Notion for free when you go to Notion.com/johnleedumas Optimize To chat with JLD about Optimizing your life, click here: EOFire.com/optimize
From the archive: This episode was originally recorded and published in 2021. Our interviews on Entrepreneurs On Fire are meant to be evergreen, and we do our best to confirm that all offers and URL's in these archive episodes are still relevant. Michael E. Gerber is the author of the NY Times mega-bestseller, for two consecutive decades, "The E-Myth Revisited" and nine other worldwide best-selling E-Myth books concerning small business entrepreneurship, leadership, and management. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. If you're to become someone you're not, or you're to possess something you don't feel, or you're unwilling to go one step further in your life without discovering who you are and why you're here, then The Dreaming Room Online is for you. 2. The entrepreneurial spirit, despite the desire to not experience pain, is incapable of not doing what's necessary to be done despite the pain that comes with it. It's driven from within - from the notion that we're born from the image of God. 3. The four personalities an entrepreneur is comprised of — the dreamer, the thinker, the storyteller, the leader. Transform Your Life. Realize Your Dream. Vision. Purpose. Mission - Michael's website Sponsors HubSpot When you combine the power of Marketing Hub and Content Hub, you can have your best quarter, every quarter. Visit Hubspot.com/marketers to learn more Notion Combines your notes, docs, and projects into one space that's simple and beautifully designed. And now it has the power of AI built right inside of it! Try Notion for free when you go to Notion.com/johnleedumas Optimize To chat with JLD about Optimizing your life, click here: EOFire.com/optimize
IT'S GUEST TIME... Co-Founder of FletchPMM, Anthony Pierri, joins us to break down one of our favourite examples of competitive positioning (positioning he worked on!) with Freckle.io against their top competitor, the well-established Clay. We also talk about a ton of other stuff, like how companies should think about positioning as the grow. It's a good one.Learn about how competitive your deals actually are from 3,400 buyers: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/truth-how-competitive-your-deals-according-3400-buyers-klue-oex6c/Watch the first short film EVER in competitive intelligence: https://klue.com/kluelessTIMESTAMPS:(00:00:00) Compete Network drops(00:02:20) Introducing Anthony Pieri(00:03:04) Freckle.io vs. Clay(00:11:34) Anthony's work with Freckle's positioning(00:13:23) The risk of calling out competitors(00:17:35) Private equity's effect on positioning(00:20:00) The reception to Freckle vs. Clay(00:23:57) Being direct with competitors(00:27:09) Hunter calls out our competitor?(00:29:00) How to call out your competitors(00:33:14) Anthony's perspective on calling out competitorsCREDITS:Guest: Anthony PierriHosts: Adam McQueen, Hunter SonesProducer: Grayson OttenbreitEditor: Stephen DespinsThe Compete Network by Klue is your home for the best content, events, and resources on competing. From building your first battlecards to enabling thousands of reps to product marketing at a Fortune 500, the Compete Network brings together the biggest names in the competitive enablement and competitive intelligence community.
This is Episode Two of The Manufacturing Comeback, a three-part Work in Progress podcast series. The series takes you inside the surge in hiring in the manufacturing industry. In this episode, we look at how small manufacturers are recruiting and training workers. Small Companies are Looking for Talent On my recent trip to Minneapolis for The Manufacturing Institute's Workforce Summit 2025, I sat down with leaders from several small companies, including Ketchie Precision Machining Solutions and Acutec Precision Aerospace, to learn how they are meeting their growing demand for talent. They tell me that they need a highly-skilled workforce with technical, problem-solving, and soft skills to operate advance equipment. They also point out that they are struggling to compete with larger companies to attract that talent. In the podcast, you'll learn about paid internships, apprenticeships, and other recruiting and training initiatives. You'll also hear from local colleges and how they are helping meet the hiring surge. The Manufacturing Comeback The recent uptick in manufacturing construction and hiring is fueled by the infusion of federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act enacted in 2021, the CHIPS and Science Act enacted in 2022, and private funding. To better understand how the manufacturing comeback is reshaping the workforce, I speak with Gardner Carrick, chief program officer for The Manufacturing Institute, which is helping employers figure out how to build a strong talent pipeline. . This three-part podcast series is a robust conversation about an industry that is once again looking for workers. Next week, in Episode Three, we conclude the series with a conversation around how large and small employers are tapping into underrepresented talent to fill jobs. You can listen to the entire conversation here, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. This series is made possible through support from The Manufacturing Institute. As a nonprofit journalism organization, WorkingNation partners and collaborates with outside organizations to make possible our mission of telling stories about solutions to today's workforce issues. All editorial decisions on this series were made independently of our supporter. Episode 340: The Manufacturing Comeback: Small Employers are Hiring in Your TownHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here
This is Episode Two of The Manufacturing Comeback, a three-part Work in Progress podcast series. The series takes you inside the surge in hiring in the manufacturing industry. In this episode, we look at how small manufacturers are recruiting and training workers. Small Companies are Looking for Talent On my recent trip to Minneapolis for The Manufacturing Institute's Workforce Summit 2025, I sat down with leaders from several small companies, including Ketchie Precision Machining Solutions and Acutec Precision Aerospace, to learn how they are meeting their growing demand for talent. They tell me that they need a highly-skilled workforce with technical, problem-solving, and soft skills to operate advance equipment. They also point out that they are struggling to compete with larger companies to attract that talent. In the podcast, you'll learn about paid internships, apprenticeships, and other recruiting and training initiatives. You'll also hear from local colleges and how they are helping meet the hiring surge. The Manufacturing Comeback The recent uptick in manufacturing construction and hiring is fueled by the infusion of federal funding through the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act enacted in 2021, the CHIPS and Science Act enacted in 2022, and private funding. To better understand how the manufacturing comeback is reshaping the workforce, I speak with Gardner Carrick, chief program officer for The Manufacturing Institute, which is helping employers figure out how to build a strong talent pipeline. . This three-part podcast series is a robust conversation about an industry that is once again looking for workers. Next week, in Episode Three, we conclude the series with a conversation around how large and small employers are tapping into underrepresented talent to fill jobs. You can listen to the entire conversation here, or wherever you get your podcasts. You can also find our podcasts on the Work in Progress YouTube channel. This series is made possible through support from The Manufacturing Institute. As a nonprofit journalism organization, WorkingNation partners and collaborates with outside organizations to make possible our mission of telling stories about solutions to today's workforce issues. All editorial decisions on this series were made independently of our supporter. Episode 340: The Manufacturing Comeback: Small Employers are Hiring in Your TownHost & Executive Producer: Ramona Schindelheim, Editor-in-Chief, WorkingNationProducer: Larry BuhlTheme Music: Composed by Lee Rosevere and licensed under CC by 4Transcript: Download the transcript for this episode hereWork in Progress Podcast: Catch up on previous episodes here
Securing a place in the defense intelligence sector can be an uphill battle for small companies, universities, and other organizations aiming to participate in national security and intelligence-related projects. Today, we're exploring the unique challenges faced by these innovative players as they navigate stringent security requirements, costly infrastructure upgrades, and the complex world of classified projects. Unlike large defense contractors, these emerging entities often struggle with limited budgets and resources, hindering their ability to contribute groundbreaking ideas to national security. Our guests, the Hon. Sue Gordon, President of Gordon Ventures and former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, and Sean Blackman, Co-founder and CEO of Nooks, offer insights into overcoming these obstacles and share the work currently being done to help small innovators bring their vision to the defense landscape. Nooks: https://nooks.works/ DIB Report: Lowering Barriers to Innovation: https://innovation.defense.gov/Portals/63/2_%2020240118%20DIB%20LBI%20Study.pdf To receive updates about the conference please join our mailing list here: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/sign-up http://emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org https://www.facebook.com/EmergingTechETI https://www.linkedin.com/company/ndia-eti-emerging-technologies-institute https://www.twitter.com/EmergingTechETI
Securing a place in the defense intelligence sector can be an uphill battle for small companies, universities, and other organizations aiming to participate in national security and intelligence-related projects. Today, we're exploring the unique challenges faced by these innovative players as they navigate stringent security requirements, costly infrastructure upgrades, and the complex world of classified projects. Unlike large defense contractors, these emerging entities often struggle with limited budgets and resources, hindering their ability to contribute groundbreaking ideas to national security. Our guests, the Hon. Sue Gordon, President of Gordon Ventures and former Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, and Sean Blackman, Co-founder and CEO of Nooks, offer insights into overcoming these obstacles and share the work currently being done to help small innovators bring their vision to the defense landscape. Nooks: https://nooks.works/ DIB Report: Lowering Barriers to Innovation: https://innovation.defense.gov/Portals/63/2_%2020240118%20DIB%20LBI%20Study.pdf To receive updates about the conference please join our mailing list here: https://www.emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org/sign-up http://emergingtechnologiesinstitute.org https://www.facebook.com/EmergingTechETI https://www.linkedin.com/company/ndia-eti-emerging-technologies-institute https://www.twitter.com/EmergingTechETI
Key Takeaways: Liquidity: The Easy Flow of Money: Liquidity is like a river - it's how easily you can buy or sell something (like a stock) without causing a big splash in its price. Lots of buyers and sellers mean high liquidity, which makes trading smooth and easy. The Liquidity Journey: Companies go through different stages, starting with low liquidity when they're new and ending with high liquidity when they're big and established. Understanding these stages can help you make smart investment choices. Finding the Hidden Gems: Look for companies that are still growing and gaining popularity. Their value (and liquidity) could explode in the future! But remember, it's also smart to sell before everyone else does and the market gets overcrowded. Safety in Numbers: High liquidity means the price is more stable and there's less risk of getting stuck with an investment you can't sell. Stay in the Know: Keep an eye on the market and how easily things are being bought and sold. This will help you make better decisions about when to buy or sell your own investments. Chapters: Timestamp Summary 0:00 Understanding Market Liquidity and Its Impact on Investments 1:07 The Liquidity Life Cycle of a Startup 2:48 The Importance of Liquidity in Investment Markets 3:18 The Impact of Liquidity on Stock Value and Investment Potential 4:16 Investing Early in Small Companies for Growth 4:49 Stay Informed About Market Liquidity and Investment Strategies Powered by Stone Hill Wealth Management Social Media Handles Follow Phillip Washington, Jr. on Instagram (@askphillip) Subscribe to Wealth Building Made Simple newsletter https://www.wealthbuildingmadesimple.us/ Ready to turn your investing dreams into reality? Our "Wealth Building Made Simple" premium newsletter is your secret weapon. We break down investing in a way that's easy to understand, even if you're just starting out. Learn the tricks the wealthy use, discover exciting opportunities, and start building the future YOU want. Sign up now, and let's make those dreams happen! WBMS Premium Subscription Phillip Washington, Jr. is a registered investment adviser. Information presented is for educational purposes only and does not intend to make an offer or solicitation for the sale or purchase of any specific securities, investments, or investment strategies. Investments involve risk and, unless otherwise stated, are not guaranteed. Be sure to first consult with a qualified financial adviser and/or tax professional before implementing any strategy discussed herein. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
Former Olympian, Professional Soccer Player, Broadcaster, and Co-Founder of Kickoff Coffee Melissa Ortiz rejoins the podcast to chat about leveraging content to build a small brand. We give examples of companies leveraging founder-led content, different content styles that we've seen work, and stories of “karma” in entrepreneurship Melissa has experienced. The views and opinions expressed in this video are solely those of the individuals featured and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of Athletes & Assets. We do not accept liability for any advice given in this video, and viewers are encouraged to seek professional guidance before making any business decisions. Additionally, the participation of athletes in this video does not imply endorsement or sponsorship by their respective employers.
We kick off a new season by sitting down with Patrick Butler, the CEO of BizDefender. Patrick, a seasoned founder with deep technical expertise, discusses his latest venture, BizDefender, a company co-founded with Interplay. BizDefender addresses the growing epidemic of fraud targeting small and medium-sized businesses. The conversation delves into the various types of business fraud, including hacking, social engineering, and brand spoofing. Patrick explains how BizDefender is stepping up with a simple, accessible solution, including a free-tier product, to help businesses monitor and mitigate these fraud risks, which are often invisible yet devastating.Patrick and I also discuss the broader mission behind BizDefender, which aligns with Interplay's studio model of building companies that create both social value and sustainable business solutions. Patrick emphasizes how small businesses are particularly vulnerable to fraud, with median losses that could cripple many companies. BizDefender aims to provide these businesses with a much-needed defense, offering tools to monitor dark web activity, protect against phishing attacks, and offer human support to navigate the complex landscape of fraud prevention.Give it a shot and see how BizDefender can help your company stay safe at bizdefender.com.Links:BizDefender Links: Website, LinkedIn, InstagramPodcast Links: Website, YouTube, Twitter, LinkedIn
"What does a computer look like if it was built with the best principles?" In this conversation, Joel Evan interviews Anjan Katta, the founder of Daylight, a revolutionary computer device designed to mitigate the negative effects of traditional screens, such as blue light and flicker. Anjan shares his personal struggles with ADHD and anxiety, which inspired him to create a computer that prioritizes mental and physical health. The discussion delves into the impact of technology on dopamine levels, the importance of reducing overstimulation, and the vision for a healthier, more user-centric computing experience. Anjan emphasizes the need for innovation in the tech industry and the importance of sovereignty in technology, advocating for a bottom-up movement to reclaim control over our digital lives. Takeaways ✅ Blue light and flicker from screens can disrupt circadian rhythms and overall health. ✅ Anjan's personal struggles with ADHD and anxiety led to the creation of Daylight. ✅ The device is designed to reduce overstimulation and promote focus. ✅ Dopamine levels are affected by technology use, leading to addictive behaviors. ✅ The goal is to create a 'boring' computer that serves as a tool, not a distraction. ✅ Natural light and outdoor use are integral to the Daylight experience. ✅ Innovation in computing is hindered by the scale required for manufacturing. ✅ Breathing patterns and nervous system regulation are impacted by screen use. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Daylight and its Purpose 09:17 The Importance of Blue Light and its Impact on Sleep 14:13 Regulating Dopamine Levels with Daylight 18:53 Reading in Sunlight with Daylight 21:22 The Physiological Element of Addictiveness 23:08 The Future of Daylight and Privacy 26:01 The Impact of Flicker and Blue Light on Eye Strain and Cognitive Function 28:47 Challenges Faced by Small Companies in the Computing Industry 30:33 Reclaiming Control Over Technology for Human Well-Being 40:41 Future Projects: Distraction-Free OS, Decentralized Systems, and New Devices
In this season 4 episode of First Look ETF, Stephanie Stanton @etfguide analyzes the latest ETF marketplace trends and recently launched small cap equity ETFs from Harbor Capital. The guest lineup for this episode includes:1. Maital Legum, NYSE2. Kristof Gleich, President & Chief Investment Officer at Harbor Capital*********First Look ETF is sponsored by the New York Stock ExchangeLearn more at https://www.ETFCentral.comWatch us on YouTube (Link http://www.youtube.com/etfguide)Follow us on Twitter @ETFguide (Link https://twitter.com/etfguide)Visit us at ETFguide.com (https://www.etfguide.com)
This week on the Expert Voices podcast, Randy Wootton, CEO of Maxio, speaks with Ray Rike, CEO of Benchmark IT, a company specializing in providing the SaaS industry with comprehensive and contextualized benchmarking data. Randy and Ray discuss the growth trends seen among private B2B SaaS companies, emphasizing how certain market dynamics are influencing growth rates. They further break down the distinction between small companies under $1 million in revenue and their larger counterparts, elucidating intriguing growth patterns and the impact of pricing models on these dynamics. Listen as Randy and Ray examine infrastructure industries, pointing out how investment behaviors and market conditions are shaping which sectors thrive. Quotes“CAC ratio measures your sales and marketing expenses divided by your new ARR, which is new name customer and expansion customer ARR. But then be more granular, and look at your sales and marketing investment expenses allocated to the pursuit of new logos in the ARR. And divide that by the new logo, ARR. What I do with a lot of our customers is I actually build a matrix. " -Ray Rike [13:40]“One of the most illuminating things from the Maxio Institute report was you segmented by fixed rate pricing, that is, traditional subscription pricing and usage based pricing. Now, you did that for small companies, below a million and then above. So below a million, the fixed rate pricing companies were growing. They hit 44% in Q1 and 41% in Q2 of 24. Compare that to usage based pricing companies.” -Ray Rike [23:02]Expert Takeaways Private B2B SaaS Growth: Private B2B SaaS companies are currently experiencing an average annual growth rate of 17%, a significant yet stable rate compared to prior exuberant expectations.Small Business Resurgence: Companies with less than $1 million in annual revenue are seeing robust growth rates of 26% in Q1 and 21% in Q2 of 2024, suggesting a revival in the small business sector.Impact of Pricing Models: Fixed rate pricing is benefiting smaller companies with rapid growth, whereas usage-based pricing drives substantial growth for larger enterprises.Industry Investment Trends: Infrastructure-related industries like cybersecurity, transportation, and healthcare are thriving, in contrast to the slower growth in entertainment and e-commerce sectors.AI Evolution: Investment in AI, particularly foundational models, has increased dramatically, with the trend continuing to shape the SaaS landscape. Timestamps(00:04) Benchmarking SaaS Growth with Data-Driven Insights(05:24) Key Insights from Q2 Maxio Growth Report(11:43) Balancing Growth and Efficiency in Sales and Marketing Investments(19:33) Small Companies See Significant Growth Amid AI Investments(23:02) Usage Based Pricing Versus Fixed Rate Pricing in SaaS Growth(29:54) Impact of Inflation and Funding on B2B Tech Companies(33:45) Investment Trends and Business Models in AI Companies(38:52) Strategies for Scaling Companies and Optimizing Customer Profiles(46:35) Ray Reich on SaaS Wisdom and Learning from Industry ExpertsLinksMaxio
Retirement Lifestyle Show with Roshan Loungani, Erik Olson & Adrian Nicholson
In this episode, Roshan and Adrian discuss the bear and bull cases for small cap stocks. The bear case highlights the underperformance of small caps compared to large caps, the investments made by big companies in areas like AI and electric vehicles, and the impact of a low interest rate environment. On the other hand, the bull case emphasizes the valuation advantage of small caps, the potential for rate cuts to boost earnings, and the economic gains from reshoring and infrastructure investments. The hosts also discuss the importance of long-term investing, diversification, and conducting thorough research before making investment decisions. Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Overview 01:05 The Bear Case for Small Cap Stocks 04:10 The Bull Case for Small Cap Stocks 08:08 Valuation and Rate Cuts: Opportunities for Small Caps 11:54 The Impact of Investments and Interest Rates on Small Caps 18:53 Long-Term Investing and Diversification in Small Caps 25:17 The Importance of Research and Professional Advice in Small Cap Investing 28:44 Conclusion Follow Us At: Website: https://retirementlifestyleshow.com/ https://www.retirewithroshan.com https://youtu.be/hKVzI87v0tA https://twitter.com/RoshanLoungani https://www.linkedin.com/in/roshanloungani/ https://www.facebook.com/retirewithroshan/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/financialerik/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrian-nicholson-74b82b13b/ #retirementlifestylepodcast #fire #podcast #FI #Retire #retirewithroshan #retirement #investing All opinions expressed by podcast hosts and guests are solely their own. While based on information they believe is reliable, neither Arete Wealth nor its affiliates warrant its completeness or accuracy, nor do their opinions reflect the opinion of Arete Wealth. This podcast is for general informational purposes only and should not be regarded as specific advice or recommendations for any individual. Before making any decisions, consult a professional.
I'm thrilled to share the latest episode of our podcast, featuring an enlightening conversation with Michael Frankel, the founder and managing partner of Trajectory Capital Management. Michael's journey in dealmaking and M&A is nothing short of inspiring, and I can't wait for you to dive into the wealth of knowledge he shared. Here are some key takeaways and intriguing insights from our discussion:Key Lessons and Ideas:The Art of Dealmaking: Michael's career has been a masterclass in M&A, from his early days as an M&A lawyer and banker to his extensive experience in corporate development. He emphasizes the excitement and transformative power of acquiring established companies rather than building from scratch.Investment Philosophy: Trajectory Capital focuses on acquiring small, well-established businesses with solid products and customer bases. Michael believes in optimizing operations to unlock growth potential, transforming a $5 million revenue business into a $20-25 million one.Operational Optimization: Many businesses with revenues under $10 million haven't fully optimized their operations. Michael's strategy involves improving sales, customer success, and pricing to accelerate growth.Human Psychology in M&A: Michael shares a cautionary tale about the critical role of human factors in acquisitions. Miscommunication and cultural misalignment can lead to significant employee turnover and customer loss.Cultural Alignment: In people-centric businesses like B2B SaaS, aligning values and culture is crucial. Michael advocates for a bespoke approach to culture, respecting each company's unique environment while promoting transparency and shared incentives.Leadership and Retention: Effective leadership is about enabling others to excel. Michael emphasizes understanding personal motivations and providing competitive compensation, often in the form of equity, to attract and retain high-performance leaders.Technology and AI: Michael is excited about the potential of straightforward problem-solving tools that deliver real ROI. He advocates for a balanced approach to AI, integrating it with human expertise to enhance productivity and decision-making.Capitalism and Ethics: Michael believes capitalism drives economic success and innovation. He argues that while companies should maximize shareholder value, they must operate within a regulatory framework to prevent harmful practices.Curiosities and Anecdotes:The "Boat Car" Metaphor: Michael uses this metaphor to illustrate the challenges of merging different entities without careful consideration of their unique aspects.Personal Networks in Deal Sourcing: Michael and his team rely heavily on personal connections to communicate their vision and build trust with founders, investors, and corporate leaders.Pivotal Career Decisions: Michael highlights the importance of seeking opportunities for learning and growth early in one's career, emphasizing that choices made in your 20s can significantly impact long-term success.Self-Awareness and Fulfillment: Michael believes in prioritizing personal satisfaction alongside professional success, finding joy and fulfillment in work to achieve greater happiness.I hope these insights spark your curiosity and entice you to listen to the full episode. Michael's perspectives on M&A, investment strategies, and leadership are invaluable for anyone navigating the business landscape. Tune in to gain a deeper understanding of how to drive growth and create meaningful impact in your ventures.Send us a Text Message.
CONQUER SHYNESS
Have you ever wondered how AI can enhance business processes?How are small businesses leveraging AI technologies to compete with industry giants?What are the challenges and benefits of integrating AI into your business?Have you heard about AI's role in autonomous driving?Did you know that deep learning can predict medical conditions with high accuracy? What are the ethical considerations and data privacy issues associated with deep learning?What steps can small businesses take to integrate deep learning into their operations?Hey there, tech enthusiasts!
In this captivating episode of "Invest In Yourself: The Digital Entrepreneur Podcast," host Phil Better sits down with Catharine O'Leary, a market research expert and quiz funnel strategist, to explore her inspiring journey from the corporate giants of Pepsi and Apple to becoming the "quiz queen" for small businesses. Discover the invaluable insights Catharine shares on client attraction, the power of quiz funnels in lead generation, and the critical role of mentorship in entrepreneurial success. With anecdotes about working under Steve Jobs and lessons learned from Blackberry's market challenges, this episode delivers a wealth of knowledge for digital entrepreneurs eager to harness small improvements for big results. Tune in to learn how small businesses can leverage agility and innovative strategies to thrive in today's competitive landscape. Don't miss Catharine's tips for connecting with clients and transforming market research into revenue-boosting actions!
Highlights from this week's conversation include:Introducing a special edition of the show with the cynical data guy (0:19)Metadata and LLMs (2:32)Data-driven culture (8:44)No-code orchestration tools (17:09)No Code vs. Low Code (19:58)Enterprise Challenges with No Code Solutions (20:08)No Code Tools for Small Companies (21:40)Inappropriate Use of Tools (23:06)Final thoughts and takeaways (24:05)The Data Stack Show is a weekly podcast powered by RudderStack, the CDP for developers. Each week we'll talk to data engineers, analysts, and data scientists about their experience around building and maintaining data infrastructure, delivering data and data products, and driving better outcomes across their businesses with data.RudderStack helps businesses make the most out of their customer data while ensuring data privacy and security. To learn more about RudderStack visit rudderstack.com.
Our guest this week is Keith Lee. Keith has been lead portfolio manager on the Brown Capital Management Small Company Strategy since 1992. He and the Small Company team were named Morningstar's Fund Manager of the Year for Domestic Equity in 2015, and the mutual fund carries a Morningstar Medalist Rating of Gold. Keith is also a member of the board of directors and chairman of the management committee for Brown, and he has held the positions of CEO and CIO. He is a trustee of the Baltimore Community Foundation and active in many other Baltimore-based philanthropies. He holds a BA and an MBA from the University of Virginia.BackgroundBioBrown Capital ManagementBrown Capital Management Small Company StrategyBrown Capital's Proprietary Investment Philosophy“Morningstar's 2015 US Fund Manager of the Year Award Winners Delivered Superior Performance,” Morningstar.com, Jan. 26, 2016.Brown Capital“The Oracle of Apopka: Meet Eddie Brown, One of Wall Street's Greatest Untold Stories,” by Antoine Gara, forbes.com, May 28, 2019.“The Case for Going Small,” browncapital.com, March 27, 2023.“I'm a Black CEO. I've Been Discounted on Wall Street Because of my Skin Color,” by Eddie Brown, washingtonpost.com, July 8, 2020.“Team Decisions: Why Our Investment Team Structure Helps Us Make Better Decisions,” by Keith Lee, browncapital.com, Sept. 14, 2022.“How We Think About Performance,” by Keith Lee, browncapital.com, June 30, 2022.“Small Company Team Awarded Morningstar's High ‘People Rating,'” browncapital.com, May 22, 2022.OtherBeating the Odds: Eddie Brown's Investing and Life Strategies, by Eddie Brown“Opposites Attract: Why Financial Services Firms and ESOPS Are Made For Each Other,” by Mary Josephs, forbes.com, June 7, 2021.“Mutual Funds 2030,” PwC study, pwc.com.“Sizing the Prize—PwC's Global Artificial Intelligence Study: Exploiting the AI Revolution,” PwC study, pwc.com.CognexBio-TechneVeeva Systems
In this Episode:- Housing now costs 7.6 times Income- Does Warren Buffett Expect a Crash?- Most of the Rich World is in Recession- Javier Milei's "Miracle Turnaround"- 42% of Small Companies are Losing MoneyRead the full article “Javier Milei's Miracle Turnaround” at www.profstonge.com.Visit our Lead Sponsor: UnchainedKeep bitcoin secure and minimize the tax you owe on it. Use code PETER for $100 off a Bitcoin IRA.Visit our Sponsor: ITM TradingInflation and crisis are coming for your retirement. Get your free report the War on Retirement.Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the Show.
Derek Harper shares his experiences in engineering innovation in the medical field, including insights on career development and effective leadership strategies. Main Topics:Engineering career pathsMedical device developmentLeading engineering teamsLeadership stylesEmerging trends in biomedical engineering like biologics and brain chips.About the guest: Derek Harper is a seasoned professional in the biomedical engineering field with a rich history of innovation and leadership. Derek's career has spanned various roles and has been instrumental in developing and introducing groundbreaking medical devices and technologies. Engineers listening to this episode will gain invaluable insights from Derek's experiences, learning about the challenges and triumphs of engineering in the medical field, leadership, and the intersection of engineering innovation and market needs.Links:Derek Harper - LinkedInAbout Being An Engineer The Being An Engineer podcast is a repository for industry knowledge and a tool through which engineers learn about and connect with relevant companies, technologies, people resources, and opportunities. We feature successful mechanical engineers and interview engineers who are passionate about their work and who made a great impact on the engineering community. The Being An Engineer podcast is brought to you by Pipeline Design & Engineering. Pipeline partners with medical & other device engineering teams who need turnkey equipment such as cycle test machines, custom test fixtures, automation equipment, assembly jigs, inspection stations and more. You can find us on the web at www.teampipeline.us
Welcome to a new episode of Business Lunch, today we are discussing the evolving role of Chief Marketing Officers (CMOs) in Fortune 500 companies and beyond. From sharing stories of exquisite wine tasting to delving into the challenges facing modern marketing leaders, this conversation is both insightful and entertaining.Highlights: "If you're a CMO at a company right now and your primary concern is, you know, is every single campaign that leaves the company perfectly, quote unquote, on brand, you're probably gonna get fired." "Marketing, when it is done right, understands and owns the entirety of that customer journey... It's divorced from revenue." "The more that you will engage with that process, the more that your CEO will see that you're the one who's taking ownership of revenue."Timestamps:01:49 - Exquisite Wine Tasting Experience 06:27 - Evolution of C-Suite Roles: Marketing vs. Revenue 10:47 - The Impact of AI on Marketing 12:44 - The Role of CMOs in Small Companies 15:34 - Advice for Medium-Sized Business Founders 16:31 - Tips for Marketers: Getting Closer to Revenue 18:25 - Marketing and Sales Alignment Strategies 20:51 - Career Advice for Aspiring CMOs CONNECT • Ask Roland a question HERE.RESOURCES:• 7 Steps to Scalable workbook • Get my book, Zero Down, FREETo learn more about Roland Frasier
“Realistically, as we age, we just physiologically are not the same as we used to be. And that has not just a physical effect on us; it has a mental, cognitive, and emotional effect on us as well.” —Dustin Baker While modern medicine has achieved incredible feats, dependence on synthetic prescription drugs is not without its downsides. By their very nature, these medications are designed as "selective poisons" that incur side effects for many users. From minor issues like drowsiness or nausea to more serious long-term health impacts, taking synthetic drugs always involves trading one's well-being for another. As more people seek to proactively manage their health and optimize wellness without compromising on risks, the demand has grown for natural alternatives that can provide prescription-level benefits without the potential dangers. Led by Dustin Baker, BioProtein Technology develops natural, non-synthetic supplements that provide the same benefits as prescription drugs without any side effects. Through innovative research and clinically-backed products, BioProtein Technology aims to help individuals enhance their health, performance, and quality of life in a safe and natural way. Listen in as Justine and Dustin share a behind-the-scenes look at product research and development processes, scaling a company, developing gender-specific products to meet more customer needs, and innovating revolutionary products for a healthier future without dependence on synthetic medications. Meet Dustin: Dustin Baker is the Founding President of BioProtein Technology and BioPro+, the first non-synthetic alternative to HGH - Human Growth Hormone and Peptide Treatments that works FASTER, EASIER, and SAFER. With over 15 years of experience in the fitness, health, and wellness industries, Dustin brings a passion for human optimization and performance to his role. Under Dustin's leadership, BioProtein Technology is focused on developing innovative, gender-specific products and continuing clinical research to support its mission of providing prescription-level benefits without side effects. When not in his office, Dustin enjoys spending time with his family and staying active in the community. Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn Connect with NextGen Purpose: Website Facebook Instagram LinkedIn YouTube Episode Highlights: 01:52 Bio-Identical Hormone Replacement Therapy 06:59 From a Small Company to a Global Organization 11:05 Business Growth Strategies 15:57 Developing Gender-Specific Products 21:03 Optimizing Wellness with NO Side Effects 26:03 Natural Supplements for Brain Health
Many small business owners feel that they aren't “ready” for a CFO, but most would benefit from CFO services. Dave Bookbinder goes Behind The Numbers with Chris O'Brian, Founder of O'Brian CFO Consulting In this episode we're discussing how small businesses and entrepreneurs can benefit from a chief financial officer; why clean financial statements are a critical need; and the importance of financial planning and analysis (FP&A). About the Host: Dave Bookbinder is the person that clients reach out to when they need to know what their most important assets are worth. He's a corporate finance executive with a focus on business and intellectual property valuation. Known as a collaborative adviser, Dave has served thousands of client companies of all sizes and industries. Dave is the author of two #1 best-selling books about the impact of human capital (PEOPLE!) on the valuation of a business enterprise called The NEW ROI: Return On Individuals & The NEW ROI: Going Behind The Numbers. He's on a mission to change the conversation about how the accounting world recognizes the value of people's contributions to a business enterprise, and to quantify what every CEO on the planet claims: “Our people are this company's most valuable asset.”
In this episode, host Collin Mitchell welcomes Jay Webb, the mastermind behind the Goats of Growth podcast. They discuss the common mistakes made when hiring revenue leaders and the importance of finding a leader who is a stage fit for the company. Jay emphasizes the need for expeditionary sales leaders who can handle the ambiguity and uncertainty of early-stage startups. They also touch on the importance of data-driven decision-making and the need for transparency and realistic expectations in the hiring process.Follow the Host:Collin Mitchell (Partner, Leadium)Our Episode Guest:Jay Webb (Founder, Goats of Growth)Sponsored By:Leadium | The leader in outbound sales appointment setting*If you'd like to be a guest on the show or have any questions, email us at guest@salestransformation.co - Just tell us why you're reaching out and we'll contact you as soon as we can!