Podcasts about sops

In this episode the hosts analyze a high-margin Amazon agency for sale while a veteran business broker reveals how buyers can win—or lose—competitive acquisition deals and what "SBA pre-qualified" really means.Business Listing – https://quietlight.com/listings/18829076/Welcome to Acquisitions Anonymous – the #1 podcast for small business M&A. Every week, we break down businesses for sale and talk about buying, operating, and growing them.Looking to build a professional website in minutes? Try Wix: https://wix.pxf.io/c/6898629/3115214/25616?trafcat=templateHubSpot is the backbone for how businesses scale without chaos. Try them out here: https://go.try-hubspot.com/OeG9VrSubscribe for more episodes: https://www.youtube.com/@AcquisitionsAnonymousPodcast?sub_confirmation=1Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://www.acquanon.com/newsletter

Watch the YouTube version of this episode HEREYou don't know where you'll be next Tuesday and that's exactly the point. In this episode of Maximum Lawyer, Tyson Mutrux sits down with trademark attorney and educator Sonia Lakhany, who has turned her entire life into a delegation and systems experiment by putting everything she owns in storage and becoming a “fancy homeless” digital nomad. Sonia shares how she runs two thriving companies while living out of a single bag and cycling through hotels around the world, using extreme efficiency, SOPs, and intentional lifestyle design to strip away errands, household chores, and decision fatigue so she can focus on deep work, creativity, and enjoying the freedom she built.From departure checklists and dopamine menus to virtual mailboxes and hotel‑based “done‑for‑you” living, Sonia walks Tyson through the operational choices that make her nomad life possible and the business lessons law firm owners can steal even if they never leave their hometown. She talks candidly about solo travel, loneliness, and choosing not to have kids, how ADHD and a craving for “whimsy” drove her away from traditional employment, and why she now sees trademarks as the ultimate lifestyle practice area for lawyers who want flexibility, global reach, and lean, high‑margin firms. They also dig into her 4L Education platform and flagship “Two Weeks to Trademarks” course, including why hundreds of alumni keep coming back for live reteaches, how she leverages AI to systematize her own law firm, and what it really looks like to build a business that funds your bucket‑list life instead of competing with it.What You'll LearnHow Sonia designed a “digital nomad” life that eliminates errands, chores, and home maintenance through radical delegationWhy running two companies from hotel rooms forced her to systematize everything from travel checklists to client workHow solo travel, white space, and pattern interrupts supercharge her creativity and strategic thinkingWhy she believes permanency (houses, kids, routines) isn't for everyone and how that shapes her business choicesWhat makes trademark law a lifestyle‑friendly, globally scalable practice area for lawyersHow her 4L Education and “Two Weeks to Trademarks” course help attorneys escape burnout and build flexible practicesWhy alumni keep re‑attending her live reteaches and how AI is changing the way she teaches and practices trademarksHighlights 00:00 – Why Sonia doesn't know where she'll be next Tuesday and her “fancy homeless” origin story05:00 – Delegating life: hotels, virtual mailboxes, and stripping away errands and chores10:00 – Departure checklists, extreme efficiency, and SOPs for travel and business20:00 – Solo travel, loneliness, and designing a life without partners, pets, or kids30:00 – ADHD, whimsy, and why Sonia was never built to be a traditional employee40:00 – Building lean teams, avoiding management bloat, and redefining success beyond headcount50:00 – Inside 4L Education and “Two Weeks to Trademarks,” lifestyle lawyering, and global trademark opportunities55:00 – Live reteaches, CLE, unreasonable hospitality, and using AI to future‑proof your practiceConnect with Sonia:Instagram YouTube Linkedin 

Growing a business requires more than the right technology. It requires business systems that make important work repeatable, consistent, and easier to scale.In this episode of MOJO: The Meaning of Life and Business, Jennifer R. Glass speaks with Adi Klevit, founder of Business Success Consulting Group and host of the Systems Simplified podcast, about how processes and standard operating procedures, or SOPs, help businesses operate more effectively.Jennifer and Adi explore the difference between a business process, an SOP, and the technology used to support them. They discuss why buying a new software platform does not automatically solve an underlying process problem and why businesses need to understand what they are trying to accomplish before adding another tool to their technology stack.The conversation also looks at one of the biggest risks facing growing businesses: important knowledge that exists only in one person's head. From employee onboarding and customer service to sales, payroll, marketing, and inventory, documenting repeatable processes can create greater consistency and make delegation easier.You'll also hear practical advice about deciding which processes to document first, keeping systems updated as the business changes, improving adoption across a team, and making sure industry terminology and acronyms are clearly understood.Whether you're starting a business or managing a fast-growing company, this episode will help you think differently about the systems behind your business and what needs to be in place before you can truly scale.Key takeaways:A system is bigger than software. Technology can execute or automate part of a process, but the underlying business process needs to be understood first.A process and an SOP are related but different. The process maps how work moves from point A to point B. The SOP explains how the work is executed step by step.Document what is repeatable. If something happens regularly, it may be a candidate for systematization.Protect institutional knowledge. A business becomes vulnerable when essential knowledge resides only in one employee's head.Systems support delegation. Documented processes make it easier to train people and move work away from the owner.Systems must stay alive. Documentation should be reviewed and improved rather than created once and forgotten.Technology needs a purpose. Before adding another platform, determine what role it plays in the larger business process. About my guest: Adi Klevit is the leader and visionary behind Business Success Consulting Group. With thirty years of experience as a trained Industrial Engineer and management consultant, she brings a unique understanding of the challenges businesses face today. Adi utilizes her practical know-how to help organizations of any size dramatically improve their efficiency and performance. By leveraging her ability to understand both business processes and people, she helps business owners bring order to their lives and achieve their goals. She is also the host of the Systems Simplified podcast, where she interviews successful entrepreneurs about the power of systematizing a business.Connect with Adi:Website | LinkedInSystems Simplified Podcast

Your team is leaving money on the table, and the Summer Sizzle Sale is ending soon. For 8 years, Weaver Sales Academy has helped 17,000+ insurance professionals sell more and close better. Don't head into Q4 with the same gaps costing you sales.

Can you run a successful business with ADHD? If you are a neurodivergent VA, OBM, or Done-For-You service provider who feels stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure what to niche into, this episode is for you. Today I talk with Maisie Rose, a business coach who started as a VA and spent about a year sensing she had outgrown it without knowing what to grow into. She shares how Foundations to Flow helped her name the work she was meant to do, coaching other neurodivergent business owners, and how she pushed past the imposter syndrome that made her doubt she was qualified.We talk about ADHD and shame, why asking for help is a strength rather than a weakness, and how the right accountability and support can change how you show up. Maisie also gets practical for the VAs and OBMs who work with neurodivergent clients, sharing simple ways to break big projects into tiny steps, why detailed SOPs make such a difference, and how bringing fun and nervous system regulation into the work helps things actually get done.

There is no shortage of founders who have read Principles or Traction. Far fewer have built their business around what those books teach, week after week, when it is inconvenient to do so. In this episode, Marcus Cauchi speaks with Keith Gillispie, founder of REI Automated, about the discipline of turning ideas into working systems, and why that discipline is harder than the ideas themselves. Why this conversation matters Most conversations about business systems focus on tools. This one focuses on behaviour. Keith didn't just read about principles, operating systems and delegation frameworks. He applied them, tested them, and kept refining them long after the novelty wore off. For founders who are drowning in advice but starved of consistent execution, this episode offers something more useful than another framework: a working model of what it actually looks like to follow through. Major discussion points Discipline over information. Keith names two books that fundamentally shaped his business: Principles by Ray Dalio and Traction by Gino Wickman. What sets his account apart is not the reading list but what he did with it: he built explicit, testable principles into daily operations, and adopted Wickman's Entrepreneur Operating System (EOS) as the structural backbone of how his business runs. Writing and testing SOPs. Keith's method for creating a standard operating procedure is deliberately unglamorous. Do the task. Write down exactly what you did. Follow your own instructions the next time and notice everything you missed. Repeat this three to seven times until the gaps close, then record a video walking through the process. Only then does a task become fit to hand to another person, or to an AI agent. Where AI should not go. Keith runs a company that sells agentic AI voice agents for real estate sellers, so he has a commercial incentive to promote automation. He was candid about its limits. When he tested his own AI on a negotiation for his own property, reaching the point where the AI pressed him on price, he found the experience uncomfortable. His conclusion: AI handles information well, but emotional, high-stakes conversations still need a human. Hiring as a discipline, not an event. REI Automated filters candidates roughly one hundred to one. Keith uses the GWC framework from Traction (get it, want it, capacity for it) to decide not just who to hire, but who to keep, and applies a consistent SOP-based interview and onboarding process across every role. Cadence over intensity. Rather than reviewing performance monthly, Keith's team submits short daily and weekly reports, which are read and responded to using Claude, and quarterly goals ("rocks") drawn from EOS. He argues that weekly management gives a business fifty opportunities a year to course-correct, against twelve for a business run monthly. The absence test. Keith takes one week off every month with no calls, texts or Slack messages. During a recent house move that disrupted his usual routine for roughly a month, revenue held within a thousand dollars of the prior month. He was candid that the business currently sustains itself well in his absence, though he is less certain it grows without him. AI as a thought partner, not a shortcut. Keith's team members are expected to bring Claude fully into their process, including drafting their own SOPs when Keith does not have time to write one himself. He was clear this only works because the AI has deep context on the business and because his people bring genuine critical thinking to the exchange, rather than treating it as a way to avoid thinking. A moment of disagreement. Marcus challenged Keith's use of performance improvement plans, arguing that everyone should effectively be on one from day one, and that needing to formalise one is often a sign management has let something slide. Keith pushed back, drawing a distinction between personal development and performance accountability, and defended his position with a clear rationale. Practical takeaways Before automating or delegating any task, do it yourself first and write the SOP from direct experience. Follow your own SOP repeatedly until you have found and closed the gaps, then record it on video. Review your business weekly, not monthly. You get roughly four times as many chances to correct course. Keep team communication in shared channels rather than direct messages, so ideas get scrutinised by more than one person. Test whether your business can run without you before you assume it can. Use AI to draft and challenge your thinking, not simply to execute tasks you have not fully worked out yourself. Memorable quotes "Sometimes in order to be helpful, you have to say the hard thing." "When we're dealing with information, AI is fine. When we're dealing with emotion, that needs a human touch." "You always have to take away before you can add." Books and resources mentioned Principles by Ray Dalio Traction by Gino Wickman Essentialism by Greg McKeown The Obstacle Is the Way by Ryan Holiday The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Guest biography Keith Gillispie is the founder and CEO of REI Automated, which provides education, software and coaching to real estate investors on building automated, systemised businesses. He spent eight years on active duty with the US Marine Corps, during which he began investing in real estate and developed the systems-first approach that now underpins his companies. Subscribe If this conversation was useful, subscribe to TheInquisitor Podcast for more conversations that challenge conventional thinking on selling, leadership and building businesses that last.

Burnout has become one of the biggest challenges facing dentists today, but it doesn't have to define your career. In this episode of the Raving Patients Podcast, Dr. Len Tau sits down with returning guest Dr. Eric Block to discuss the realities of burnout, the hidden stressors dentists face, and the practical systems that can transform a chaotic practice into one that supports both professional success and personal well-being. Dr. Block shares his own journey from questioning his career to rediscovering his passion for dentistry. Together, they explore leadership, standard operating procedures, going out of network, patient relationships, technology, and why creating efficient systems isn't just good for business—it's essential for your mental health. Whether you're a new dentist or an experienced practice owner, this episode is full of practical advice for building a healthier, more profitable practice. What You'll Learn Why burnout happens to so many dentists and how to recognize the warning signs. The importance of seeking help before stress becomes overwhelming. How leadership directly impacts practice culture and team performance. Why documented systems and SOPs reduce stress for both dentists and staff. The benefits and challenges of transitioning out of PPO insurance plans. How adding new technology and services can reignite your passion for dentistry. Why sleep apnea treatment is one of the biggest opportunities in modern dental practices. Practical strategies for creating a practice that supports your life instead of consuming it.   Key Takeaways 00:54 From Burnout to Better Dentistry: Systems, Technology, and Sanity 03:53 Dr. Eric Block's journey into dentistry 05:40 Experiencing burnout and finding help  10:11 Why dentists struggle after dental school 14:45 Recognizing the warning signs of burnout 16:45 Getting help through therapy, coaching, and mentorship 18:53 The reality of PPOs and going out of network 23:42 Why every practice needs documented SOPs 25:46 Becoming a stronger leader 27:45 Building a practice that supports your life 29:58 What makes a healthy, high-performing practice 32:00 Why sleep apnea treatment excites Dr. Block 34:15 Lightning Round 37:50 How to connect with Dr. Eric Block — Connect with Dr Eric Website: https://useflomo.com https://thestressfreedentist.com Email: eric@useflomo.com   — Learn proven dental marketing strategies and online reputation management techniques at DrLenTau.com. This podcast is sponsored by Dental Intelligence. Learn more here. This podcast is sponsored by CallRail, call tracking & lead conversion software for dentists. Find out more here. Raving Patients Podcast is your go-to place for the latest and best dental marketing strategies that will help you skyrocket your practice. Follow us for more!  

Send us Fan MailA busy clinic isn't automatically a valuable business. In this episode of the Private Practice Survival Guide, Brandon Seigel explains how to build a value dashboard that buyers and lenders actually care about, why revenue isn't the same as value, and how to remove owner dependency so your practice becomes a transferable, scalable asset. You'll learn the exact KPIs to track, the systems to document, and the playbook that proves your practice can run without you. He also breaks down valuation frameworks—from revenue multiples to EBITDA—and shows how diversified revenue and strong leadership benches command higher multiples.What You'll Learn:The difference between revenue and true enterprise value—and why replacement cost mattersHow to calculate and reduce your owner dependency scoreThe essential monthly KPIs for a 12-month rolling value dashboardHow to build SOPs and a practice playbook that buyers trustWays to diversify revenue (private pay, telehealth, groups, training, wellness, consulting, education)Common value-killing mistakes and how to avoid themHow valuation ranges are influenced by margins, growth, systems, and risk profileBuild a business worth owning—and selling—so you can thrive, not just survive. #PrivatePractice #PracticeManagement #HealthcareBusiness #EBITDA #BusinessValuationWelcome to Private Practice Survival Guide Podcast hosted by Brandon Seigel! Brandon Seigel, President of Wellness Works Management Partners, is an internationally known private practice consultant with over fifteen years of executive leadership experience. Seigel's book "The Private Practice Survival Guide" takes private practice entrepreneurs on a journey to unlocking key strategies for surviving―and thriving―in today's business environment. Now Brandon Seigel goes beyond the book and brings the same great tips, tricks, and anecdotes to improve your private practice in this companion podcast. Get In Touch With MePodcast Website: https://www.privatepracticesurvivalguide.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandonseigel/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandonseigel/https://wellnessworksmedicalbilling.com/Private Practice Survival Guide BookThis show is proudly produced at PS Studios — learn more https://www.psstudios.co

The Joint Readiness Training Center is pleased to present the one-hundredth-and-sixty-seventh episode to air on ‘The Crucible - The JRTC Experience.' Hosted by the Senior Enlisted Medical Advisor and Role II Observer-Coach-Trainer for the Task Force Sustainment (BSB / CSSB), MSG Timothy Sargent on behalf of the Commander of Ops Group (COG). Today's guests are four seasoned senior NCOs within one of our infantry task forces. CSM Edwards Cumming is the TF CSM, 1SG Jeremiah Guerra is a CO Team 1SG, 1SG Mark Varley is a CO Team 1SG, and SFC William Deutsch is the Senior Medical Observer – Coach – Trainer within Task Force 3 (IN BN). This follow-on episode continues the discussion on casualty care within maneuver formations, shifting the focus from point-of-injury treatment to the realities of casualty evacuation, prolonged field care, and integrating the medical and maneuver enterprises during Large Scale Combat Operations. Leaders discuss common observations from JRTC, emphasizing that the greatest contributor to preventable casualties is often delayed evacuation caused by poor planning, ineffective communications, and a lack of understanding of CASEVAC and MEDEVAC capabilities. Topics include casualty collection points (CCPs), ambulance exchange points (AXPs), Role I and Role II care, prolonged field care, casualty triage, evacuation decision-making, and the importance of incorporating medical leaders into the planning process from the outset. A recurring theme is that casualty evacuation is a command-and-control problem as much as a medical one, requiring rehearsed PACE plans, clearly defined responsibilities, and disciplined execution to preserve combat power.   The discussion also explores how units can better bridge the gap between the maneuver and medical communities through integrated training, shared understanding, and realistic repetitions. Leaders emphasize embedding medics within platoons, cross-training infantry Soldiers in lifesaving skills, developing SOPs that are understood at every echelon, and preparing junior leaders to assume greater responsibility when key personnel become casualties. Additional topics include maintaining momentum during casualty evacuation, using evacuation assets for both medical evacuation and logistical backhaul, building trust between medics and maneuver leaders, and exposing combat medics to realistic trauma training before deployment. Ultimately, the episode reinforces that casualty care in LSCO extends far beyond medical treatment—it requires disciplined planning, effective leadership, rigorous rehearsals, and a culture in which medics and maneuver leaders train together long before the first casualty occurs.    Part of S03 “Lightfighter Lessons” series.   For additional information and insights from this episode, please check-out our Instagram page @the_jrtc_crucible_podcast.   Be sure to follow us on social media to keep up with the latest warfighting TTPs learned through the crucible that is the Joint Readiness Training Center.   Follow us by going to: https://linktr.ee/jrtc and then selecting your preferred podcast format.   Again, we'd like to thank our guests for participating. Don't forget to like, subscribe, and review us wherever you listen or watch your podcasts — and be sure to stay tuned for more in the near future.   “The Crucible – The JRTC Experience” is a product of the Joint Readiness Training Center.

Most discussions about One QMS focus on harmonization.But before deciding whether a single global Quality Management System is the right approach, it's worth understanding the three primary ways organizations structure a QMS.In this episode, I compare centralized, decentralized, and federated (hybrid) Quality Management System models, including the trade-offs of each in terms of ownership, standardization, flexibility, governance, and decision-making.We also walk through how the document hierarchy typically differs across each model—from the Quality Policy and Quality Manual to standards, SOPs, work instructions, and records—and discuss why governance often has a greater impact on success than the operating model itself.Timestamps00:00 Why "One QMS" Is Trending01:33 The Three Primary QMS Models01:50 Centralized QMS02:01 Decentralized QMS02:28 Federated (Hybrid) QMS03:50 Comparing the Document Hierarchy04:14 Centralized Document Structure05:04 Decentralized Document Structure05:22 Federated Standards, SOPs, and Governance06:50 The QMS Tree: Philosophy, Governance, and Execution08:20 Why Governance Matters More Than the ModelSubhi Saadeh is a quality professional, consultant, auditor, and trainer who specializes in drug-device combination products, medical devices, pharmaceutical quality systems, supplier quality, and lifecycle management. Through Let's Combinate, he helps pharmaceutical and medical device teams bridge the gap between drug and device quality, regulatory expectations, and practical execution.

Vincent Yoder is CEO of RT Yoder, scaling a family-founded trades business into a multi-division platform through AI, acquisitions, and systems-driven growth across electrical, plumbing, and HVAC services. Top 3 Value Bombs 1. Emotional discomfort often reveals the biggest opportunities for personal and entrepreneurial growth. 2. Creative deal structuring, like consulting for equity, helps entrepreneurs gain ownership by delivering measurable value. 3. AI becomes far more powerful with strong SOPs and context-rich systems, giving businesses a major advantage. Check out the website and connect with Vincent to discuss acquisitions, AI systems, and scaling service-based businesses - Yoder Enterprises Group Website Sponsors HighLevel - The ultimate all-in-one platform for entrepreneurs, marketers, coaches, and agencies. Learn more at HighLevelFire.com. Nexus Install - Have a high-ticket offer? Nexus Install builds you a custom LinkedIn prospect booking system designed to generate more quality sales calls. Email JLD at John@EOFire.com to learn more.

What if the biggest bottleneck in your business isn't your team, your budget, or your idea, but simply the fact that you haven't asked AI the right question yet? In this episode of The Happy Hustle Podcast, Michael Ballard closes out our AI Masterclass Workshop with maybe the most tactical, business first talk of the whole event. Michael is the founder of SlashDev, a software development agency that builds websites, mobile apps, CRMs, and lead generation systems for clients across a wide range of industries. He studied finance and entrepreneurship at the University of Washington, and back when vision models were just starting to recognize objects, he spent a year deep in a machine learning program dreaming up things like inventory scanners. He later worked at Ericsson on their automation and AI team, watching firsthand how a massive company rolls out new technology slowly and carefully. For the past five years he has poured that experience into SlashDev, and if you have seen the Happy Hustle Club's software platform, the one built around our Ten Alignment System, that is his team's work too. This episode matters because Michael does not talk about AI like a shiny new toy. He talks about it like a business owner who has to justify every dollar spent. His whole framework comes down to three questions. Does this generate revenue? Does it cut costs? Does it improve the product? If the answer is no to all three, skip it, no matter how cool the demo looks. One of the most useful ideas he shares is running a full audit of your business using a tool like Claude Code. Talk through your marketing channels, your partnerships, your team, your SOPs, even the salaries tied to certain tasks, and ask AI what the highest value opportunities are. He points out something a lot of us miss, which is that if everyone in your industry is showing up to a certain conference or using a certain channel and you are not, that is free money sitting on the table. He also gets real about content. Michael says he genuinely dislikes making content and barely uses Instagram, yet his team used AI voice cloning and animation tools to produce reels that pulled in twelve million views without him ever sitting in front of a camera. That is not about replacing authenticity, it is about removing the excuse that content takes too much time. The lead generation piece might be the most eye opening stat in the whole talk. His team scraped 49,000 leads for 158 dollars and used AI to score over 3,600 of them as ideal fits, ready for custom outreach that used to take a whole team to pull off. He also walks through building AI systems that answer texts after hours so hot leads never go cold, and one that studies your best sales calls so your entire team starts closing the way your top performer already does. Michael does not shy away from the limits either. When a listener asked about HIPAA compliance for a medical business, he was honest that it is still a real legal risk worth caution, and he pointed to cloud providers with compliant setups as a starting point rather than pretending there is a shortcut. If you are running a business and wondering where to actually point AI first instead of just experimenting for the sake of it, this episode gives you the exact lens to look through. Go listen to the full conversation at https://caryjack.com/podcastin/ and start with just one high ROI move this week. That is usually all it takes to see what is possible. Connect with Michaelhttps://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100076038248142https://www.instagram.com/slashdev.iohttps://www.youtube.com/@slashdevio/featuredhttps://www.linkedin.com/company/slashdev-io/ Find Michael on this website: https://slashdev.io/ Connect with Cary!https://www.instagram.com/caryjack/https://www.facebook.com/SirCaryJackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/cary-jack-kendzior/https://twitter.com/thehappyhustlehttps://www.youtube.com/channel/UCFDNsD59tLxv2JfEuSsNMOQ/featured Get a copy of his new book, https://www.thehappyhustle.com/book Sign up for The Journey: 10 Days To Become a Happy Hustler Online Course @ https://thehappyhustle.com/thejourney/ Apply to the Montana Mastermind Epic Camping Adventure @ https://thehappyhustle.com/mastermind/ “It's time to Happy Hustle, a blissfully balanced life you love, full of passion, purpose, and positive impact!” Episode Sponsors: If you're feeling stressed, not sleeping great, or your energy's been kinda meh lately—let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer for me: Magnesium Breakthrough by BiOptimizers. This ain't your average magnesium—it's got all 7 essential forms that your body needs to chill out, sleep deeper, and feel more balanced. I take it every night and legit notice the difference the next day. No more waking up groggy or tossing and turning all night If you're ready to sleep like a baby, calm your nervous system, and optimize your recovery, go grab yours now at https://www.bioptimizers.com/happy and use code HAPPY10 for 10% OFF. =================================================================== My Green Mattress If you've been waking up with back pain, feeling stiff, or just not getting that deep, quality sleep. This might be what you're missing: My Green Mattress. It's made with clean, non-toxic, and eco-friendly materials, so you're not just sleeping better, you're sleeping healthier too. The comfort and support are on another level, and you can really feel the difference night after night. If you're ready to invest in better sleep and better recovery, check it out at https://thehappyhustle.com/mygreenmattress =================================================================== Ozlo Sleep If you've been struggling to fall asleep, stay asleep, or just wake up feeling actually rested, let me put you on to something that's been a total game-changer: Ozlo Sleep. These aren't your typical sleep buds. They're designed to block out noise and help your brain fully relax, so you can drift off faster and stay in deep, uninterrupted sleep. Perfect if you're a light sleeper or just want that next-level rest. If you're ready to upgrade your sleep and wake up feeling recharged, check out https://ozlosleep.com and save $80 OFF using code HAPPY.

See what the team at The Successful Bookkeeper has on right now → Amanda McKinney is back, and this conversation picks up right where the field is most uncomfortable: the place where your own capability quietly becomes the ceiling on your growth. If you've ever thought "it's faster if I just do it myself," this episode was made for you. Amanda brings her accountability coaching lens to the real-world pressures bookkeepers face — the revolving door of client work, the resistance to delegation, and the habits that quietly drain capacity before burnout ever arrives. Chapters [00:00] The 3-Times System Rule [01:18] Welcome and Guest Introduction [03:30] Amanda's Journey Since 2023 [08:30] Working With Teams Long-Term [13:00] When Capability Becomes an Obstacle [17:00] Warning Signs of Unsustainable Pace [21:00] The Case for Hobbies [25:00] Building Systems to Delegate [29:00] SOPs in Practice: Quarterly Taxes [32:30] Amanda's Podcast Pause The Highly Capable Trap Being good at your work is a genuine asset — right up until it isn't. Amanda explains that capability creates capacity, and capacity gets filled. "The problem with being capable is that it opens up more capacity. And when you have more capacity, you get more work. Either it's given to you or you give it to yourself." For bookkeepers, where the work never truly stops, this cycle can accelerate fast. Recognizing the pattern is the first step out of it. Warning Signs Worth Watching Amanda walks through the early signals that something needs to change — before burnout forces the issue. Physical heaviness when someone asks how you're doing, or the moment you realize your only answer to "what do you do for fun?" is your work. She shared that in 2024, that was her own reality. "I realized, oh my gosh, I have no hobbies. I don't have anything that I do just for fun." Intentionally adding even 15 minutes of something non-work-related a week can start shifting that. The 3-Times Rule for Systems This is the practical core of the episode. Amanda's rule of thumb: if you do something more than 3 times, it needs a system. She uses invoicing as a quick gut-check — if you can't describe your process fast, you're spending unnecessary brainpower every single time. The fix is straightforward: the next time you do that task, record yourself walking through it using a screen recorder like Loom or Neato (free). That recording becomes your SOP, and that SOP becomes your delegation tool. She applied this to her own quarterly tax payments: "I did it in like 15 minutes. Whereas that would have taken me an hour or two if I didn't have those steps written out." Delegation Without the Dread Most bookkeepers resist handing work off because training someone else feels slower than doing it themselves. Amanda reframes this: a documented system removes most of that training burden. The SOP does the heavy lifting, and the person you're delegating to — whether human or software — gets a clear path to follow your standards. As Michael put it during the conversation, "SOPs are the pathway to profitability." Sustainable Growth Requires a Pause Amanda recently did something that surprised her own audience: she intentionally paused her podcast after eight straight years of weekly content. The flood of concerned emails she received made her realize how rarely people pause before something forces them to. The message for bookkeepers is the same — growth that lasts has to be built on something sustainable. Waiting for a crisis to rest isn't a strategy. "You don't have to be burnt out before you make a decision to change something." Links Mentioned Loom — screen and voice recording tool for creating SOPs Neeto — free alternative screen recording tool (used by The Successful Bookkeeper team) purebookkeeping.com — episode sponsor; system to grow your bookkeeping business thesuccessfulbookkeeper.com — show resources and guest info Accountable podcast by Amanda McKinney (300+ episodes available; currently on intentional pause) About the Guest Amanda McKinney is an accountability coach, speaker, and the host of the Accountable podcast (formerly The Unapologetic Entrepreneur). She works primarily with driven entrepreneurs and leadership teams to help them follow through on goals that keep getting pushed to the back burner — without burning out in the process. She has been coaching since 2017 and now leads engagements ranging from 90-day individual programs to 9–12 month team partnerships. You can find her through her podcast archive of 300+ episodes or by reaching out directly through her website. About the hostMichael PalmerMichael Palmer is the host of The Successful Bookkeeper podcast and co-founder of Pure Bookkeeping and The Successful Bookkeeper. He started this work because of his father — a brilliant electrical contractor who worked twice as hard as he should have had to, because nobody on the financial side was in his corner. That gap is what The Successful Bookkeeper exists to close. His view: bookkeepers are the most undervalued force in small business — and every bookkeeper who builds a real business changes two families: theirs, and their clients'.

https://youtu.be/31XywTpVWJ4 Robin Dimond, Founder and CEO of Fifth & Cor, is helping organizations tap into the growth of their people by developing future leaders, fostering meaningful relationships, and creating a culture where employees and clients grow together. Through a collaborative agency model built on trust, innovation, and continuous learning, Robin empowers organizations to adapt quickly while creating lasting success. In this conversation, Robin introduces her Grow Your People’s Lives in 5 Ways Framework—Health, Wealth, Spirituality, Friends & Family, and Mental Health. She explains why investing in the whole person creates stronger leaders, how requiring employees to train their replacements builds a sustainable leadership pipeline, and why every client engagement begins with a discovery process and strategic blueprint. Robin also explains how fostering innovation, embracing AI as a tool rather than a replacement for human judgment, and remaining agile help organizations thrive in today’s rapidly evolving business landscape. — Tap Into the Growth of Your People with Robin Dimond  Good day. Steve Preda here with the Management Blueprint, and today my guest is Robin Dimond, the Founder and CEO of Fifth & Cor, a marketing and innovation company harnessing the best tools to support brands, consumers, and communities. Robin, welcome to the show.  Thank you so much for having me, Steve. I appreciate it.  Well, it’s exciting to have you, and we already have some things in common that might or might not come up in the conversation. But what I’d like to ask you, which is kind of my favorite question on this show, is: What is your personal ‘Why’, and how are you manifesting it in Fifth & Cor? I think my personal why—I know what it is. My personal ‘Why’ is my legacy. And because I do not have children of my own, I get the great pleasure of being able to touch so many lives through employees, clients, and partners. So I get to live my ‘Why’ out every day. And I’m a little bit different than most CEOs. I’m looking for the next CEO to replace me. So I go in with the mindset of, “One of you will take my job one day,” and it makes me super happy. That’s my ‘Why’.  Wow. So what do you want to be when you grow up?  What I want to be when I grow up? Technically, I’d like to be the janitor. I believe in cleaning up the messes that are left, and I love that. I love the difficult clients. I love the difficult situations. And I think I’ll step down one day and be the support for somebody who’s currently on my team or the next person to join my team.  Wow. That is awesome. So you want to focus on the message as opposed to running the day-to-day, because that’s where your interests life and where you’re building your legacy.  Yes, I think that is. They call it a Chief Heart Officer in some places. It’s that person who makes sure that the message of the company, what it’s built on, and its foundation are seen all the way through. And that’s the part I love.  Yeah. So you’re a real visionary.  Yes.  So we’ll talk more about your vision, but what I want to ask you about is this podcast is really about frameworks. What we’re trying to do here is find unique frameworks, processes, structures, or ways of looking at the world that CEOs have come up with that could help audience members think about business through a different lens. So is there anything that comes to mind along those lines?  What we found that really works for us is when meeting somebody, we talk to them. Then we do a discovery to figure out if we're aligned, and we find that to be very helpfulShare on X whether it’s with people, partnerships, or clients. So that discovery process, to make sure we’re all on the same page, is so important. From there, we build out a blueprint for them, and then we present the blueprint as if we were the ones running the business. We want to make sure that we’re answering those questions.  We make sure that we’re doing that, and then we have checkpoints. So we sit with a blueprint, saying, “Okay, over the next 30, 60, and 90 days, what are our processes?” The thing that we do differently than most companies is you don’t get an account executive when you come to us. You get a team of people, and you’ll see all their faces all the time. So there is no miscommunication. If you hire us, you get a team. You’ll get a director who’s overseeing your strategy.  You’ll get a coordinator who’s on top of trends. You’ll get a public relations person. And you’ll get a project manager who oversees—we call them our handlers—because they oversee the project all the way through. It has made us successful, and it’s made our clients super successful.  I love it. Especially the blueprint part of it, because it kind of chimes with the framework. So is this your blueprint? How is it unique?  It is, because everyone told us, when you look at agencies or agency models—and we try not to refer to ourselves as that—an agency model will have one account executive, and that person goes back—I call them the man behind the curtain—because they go back and talk to everyone.  What we do is say, “Hey, you’ve hired us, and you’ve hired experts.” We put all of them copied on every email, on every call, working on strategy with your team. And that’s why some of our results are 10,000% growth on your platforms in only 90 days, because we can all work together as a team.  Wow. So that’s very interesting because it’s not an easy thing to pull off—  Nope. To have so many people work together. But maybe that’s the secret sauce here.  The secret sauce is you can’t even get promoted at this company if you don’t hire your replacement. So if you haven’t trained someone behind you, don’t come and ask me for a raise. Don’t ask for a promotion. You should come and say, “Hey, Morgan’s ready to move into my spot. This is how I got her here. I’m ready now to be promoted to the next role.” So we are building tiny leaders behind us who are building teams.  That’s such music to my ears. Yes, I mean, it’s all about leaders building a company, right?  Yes. I totally agree with that. So how do you do that? How do you even do that? Does it mean that any subject matter expert you hire has to be a leader first and foremost? You can’t have someone who just wants to be a specialist stay a specialist?  So I say, “If you’re not growing, you’re dying.” So it should be in some way. It starts in the interview process, and I think this is where a lot of CEOs miss. In the interview process, we start with those questions. Where do you see yourself? Who are the five people you surround yourself with? What do you bring to the table? Asking those very open-ended questions.  Where do you see yourself going? Some people are so honest, Steve. I’d love to bring you on interviews because they’re so honest. They’re like, “Oh, I want to go to law school.” I’m like, “Great. So your time here is going to be short. It’s going to be the next year. What are you going to do in that next year?” “I’m going to help you with contracts.” “Perfect. Okay, let’s get your portfolio looking better so you can go on to the next thing.”  Sometimes we’ll get a subject matter expert who is hyper-focused on public relations, but they say, “I want to be a creative director.” “Okay, great. So during your time here, what are you going to learn? What courses can we invest in you? What trips can we take you on?” So we work with people who have a growth plan of their own and are willing to be agile. That starts at the bottom and moves toward the top.Share on X  That’s genius. Working with people who have a growth plan. Because ultimately, if they don’t have a growth plan, then most likely they’re not going to grow, because you can’t just grow without a plan, right? If you don’t have a vision for growth, it’s not going to happen. Does it mean you’re flexible enough to adapt, to some degree, to these people with a growth plan so that you can share in the fruits of their growth?  Absolutely. We have people start in one section. So we have operations, growth, and delivery. We’ll have someone start in delivery and see that they’re so good at operations that we’ll move them, and then backfill their role. So we have people who move horizontally as well as vertically into different groups. I think that’s the part where you have to be open with your team. You have to say, “Hey, Steve, you’re not that great at creative.  You know that.” And you’re like, “Yes.” And I’m like, “But you are so amazing at operations. Let’s move you over there.” Or, “Steve, you’re such a great thought leader, and I’ve wanted to start a podcast. I’d like to bring you in. Let’s backfill your other role that you started with at our company.” So it’s having that open dialogue from day one and having the team be able to recognize where they’re strong and where they need to move.  I love it. Love it. So what are the challenges with this model?  So many. When I first started, I think I saw what was not working. Before, for you to get ahead, you had to… I spent my time in New York. You had to outpace that person. You had to kind of put the other person down so that you could get promoted. And I saw some negatives in that. This, I would say, is about being transparent and being vulnerable.  It’s also admitting where my mistakes lie or where my weaknesses are. I have dyslexia, so I should never proofread anything for anyone, truthfully. So it’s about being vulnerable. Sometimes that leads to not the greatest people coming into your company because you’re putting yourself out there with that vulnerability. But for every bad apple, there are 20 great apples out there. Yeah, I mean, this is beautiful. I always believe that in order to have people trust you, you kind of have to trust them first. That’s a fragile thing, and you have to put yourself out there. Okay, some people are going to take advantage of it, and you have to…  They are, and it happens. I think every business owner or any leader has to realize that that’s going to happen. But that’s going to happen in your dating life. That’s going to happen in relationships. It’s going to happen in partnerships. In business. It’s going to happen.  But the great part, and the great reward, is seeing someone else come alongside and take your business to the next level, or take your clients to the next level. I think it’s worth being vulnerable to gain that traction.  Yeah, because those people don’t want to work for A-holes, right? They want real people who treat them as equals in some ways because they’re also very talented people. So Robin, let me switch gears here and ask you: what drives growth in Fifth & Cor?  I think what drives growth is our innovation. And we're able to adapt very quickly. In a world where marketing is constantly changingShare on X and I don’t know what the correct term is, Steve, but I say “squished”—we’re getting pressure from the platforms, from social media changes and updates, all of that. We get changes in our coding.  We get changes and pressure from our clients. And we get industry changes. From Boomers to Millennials to Gen X, there’s constant change, so we have to be agile. In our industry, when I started, it was doing billboards. Design was a long process. Now, if we’re not adapting and changing every 30 to 60 days, we can’t keep up. So I can’t make a roadmap or a blueprint for our company three years out. TikTok was here one day.  It was gone the next day. Then it came back again. So planning and strategizing means being agile, being flexible, and being able to move around that for clients so that they don't lose their numbers. I think that's what's driving growth. We're extremely innovative, and we think quickly on our feet.Share on X Can you give me an example?  Yes. I would say the TikTok one is a huge one because we were like, “Clients, you’re about to lose TikTok. They’re warning it’s going to disappear.” Then the next day it was back. So we came up with complete strategies to get rid of it and then bring it back. The next is PR. Sometimes the world changes.  Unfortunately, September 11, we had some other things happen in the news that were really big. It was something where we had to go to our clients and say, “Look, we need a new plan. We need a change. We cannot be tone-deaf right now going into it.” I mean, that all happened, obviously, in September. It was a really rapid change in what was going on. Another example is Shopify went down last week, so all of our clients’ websites went down. There was nothing we were doing.  It was something outside of our control. But we sat there with our clients and said, “Okay, let’s ramp up your social. Let’s go live with some videos and talk about it. Let’s do a press release about how you didn’t lose sales during this time and how you’re going to bounce back.” So it’s constantly thinking on our feet. It’s constantly communicating with our clients and saying, “Look, this happened outside of our control—and yours. This is how we’re going to fix it.”  Yeah. That’s amazing. So how do you keep the team? We talked about how you’re attracting these A players to your business and being flexible to make sure that you tap into their desire to grow, and you grow with them—their way and your way, obviously. But how do you get all these stars to work together? So culture comes from the bottom up. It doesn’t come from me. That would be a dictatorship. So culture comes from the people we hire, and we let them run with new ideas, and they take ownership of those ideas. We did not have public relations four years ago. That was someone else’s idea, and now it’s one of our largest service lines. Project management is another one.  We were not ready to do project management, but people kept seeing our project managers, and they were like, “Well, can we just hire them? Can we just hire them to do this service?” They saw our projects through. So even if someone wasn’t using marketing, they were using our project managers for tech implementations, events, and marketing.  So we’ve created opportunities for people to grow with us. But if you come with us, we say you have to grow in five areas of your life. Health. We actually have a challenge right now, Steve, if you want to join it. It’s who can walk the most miles in June. So health is a challenge to make sure we focus on your health. Yeah.  And we have health-related activities—kayaking. It’s on my LinkedIn posts if you want to go look. We do wealth. We want to make sure you're debt-free. When you come to us, you don't have to be, but we want to make sure you're working with our CFO to become financially independent.Share on X If you’re going to buy a home, we want you to be financially responsible outside of our company.  So in case something does happen, you’re growing toward that. We want you to grow spiritually—whatever you believe your spiritual growth is. If that’s going outside and lying in the grass, if it’s going to your church, if it’s giving back to your community, there should be a spiritual challenge. We look at your family and friends. They don’t have to be blood relatives, but you should be intentional about what you’ve done for your family and friends to help them grow. Whether it’s a family dinner…  You’ll see my team posting about their family dinners on LinkedIn. You’ll see them talking about taking time to do activities with them. So we look at five areas of their lives, making sure they’re growing, and we have challenges to support that. And then mental is the last one. What books did you read? What courses did you take? What did you do to advance yourself?  And Steve, they hold me accountable. They’re like, “Did you finish that CEO book, or are you going to…?” I’m like, “Oh my gosh. Okay. Let me do it.” So it’s something our team can challenge. And if you don’t want to participate, that’s okay. But we’re probably not the company you should be joining.  That is amazing. So people really look after each other. You have this peer accountability going that makes sure everyone is healthy, gets out of their financial challenges, has a social network around them, and takes care of their mental health. That is amazing.  Isn’t that too much for a company to take on? That could be seen as a huge burden—that you worry about all those people in so many different ways, and then you worry about your clients, and you want to make sure your people work together. Doesn’t that become overwhelming sometimes?  I don’t have to work with my clients because I have the most amazing team. I work and focus on my team, and my team’s love and joy get passed on to our clients. It’s a pass-it-down, share-it kind of thing. When they’re happy, healthy, and financially wise, they take care of our clients better than I could ever. They know their birthdays. They know their activities. They know different things. We’re constantly monitoring that. I’m supposed to take care of our team.  Isn’t that something that… I don’t know if it was Jeff Bezos in the early days…  Back in his early days, he did say that. And I want to be focused on that. I want to be innovative. We reward innovation. If you come up with a new way of doing something, you can win prizes, bonuses, gift cards. It is always a challenge: how could you do something better? Someone solved something the other day that we couldn’t figure out for the past three years. I was like, “Open up your email. There’s a gift card in there.” We want to reward people. We want them to enjoy the bonuses of doing different things and thinking outside the box.  That’s very exciting. It sounds like you’re running a perfect business.  No, it’s not perfect. People are messy, and I want other business owners to see that. There are some days that I look at the day and I’m like, “Oof, this is a big one.” Or it’s saying goodbye to the people who don’t fit into that culture, who might be the bad apples. That’s hard.  Not every person we bring on is the right fit. Not every person wants to grow. Some people want to be button-pushers for the rest of their lives, and we might have missed that. Those are the challenging days. Some days, when you get super involved in people’s lives, it means you get super involved in life. Their health might diminish, and you have to step in and take over. We had somebody who fell backward and fractured their skull. Well, we had to keep going while they recovered. That whole part isn’t easy. It’s scary. There are some days I’m like, “What the heck am I doing, Steve?” I say that a lot. But looking back, it’s rewarding.  So Robin, what is one thing that you’re actively trying to figure out in your business?  Right now it’s where the industry is headed, and we’re actively, all day, every day, trying to figure that out. We are seeing the most innovation happen during these times, and keeping up with it is exhausting. To give you an example, the printing press came. The car came. Right now, it’s the next generation, who were born with one of these in their hand. Whether it’s AI that’s coming, or something else, every day there’s something new being released. So it’s, how do we adapt, but also not get burned out? That is the biggest thing I’m trying to solve right now.  Yeah.  So if anyone would like to help me, please email me. I’ll buy you cocktails or coffee. I’ll do either one, because that is exhausting for a business owner right now.  So what part of adapting is the risky part? Give me an example of adapting and risking burnout.  The burnout comes from trying to stay on top of what’s new every day, whether it’s a new platform that came out or whether it’s AI that’s going to replace all your marketing people. It’s about being flexible, but also being smart and not making too many decisions too quickly. Our advisory board is my backbone.  There are five advisors who pour into us, who are sounding boards and give as much time as possible. I think they’re the ones who keep me in line. I didn’t have them at first, so I would recommend getting a board of advisors that you really trust, that you can look at their lives, and they can show you where burnout could happen.Share on X  And if you had a magic wand and you could fix something inside your business, what would that be in the next 12 months?  If I had a magic wand and I could fix anything inside our business, I think I would fix the rate at which we’re growing, if that makes sense. We’re growing way faster than I thought, and my magic wand would be to have enough systems in place to keep up with it. Once we build a system, we outgrow that system, and I’m like, “Cheese and crackers, we’ve already outbuilt it.” So I think it would be staying on that hamster wheel, making sure we put more infrastructure in place. Yeah, and with AI, it’s a different kind of operating system for a company, isn’t it? It is.  AI needs to be used across everything. AI should be in your business. You should be using it. You should be leveraging it. But AI can’t replace people. I think that’s the biggest thing. It’s being able to adapt your team into AI-powered systems, while also having them use their judgment and their brains. They’re going back and checking it.  Yeah. You know what I’m wondering sometimes about AI is, yes, it is making us very productive. I can get a lot more done. But at the same time, I have to make a lot more decisions, so the cognitive load has increased.  My brain load never decreased with AI. I now have to solve problems faster, and I think that’s where people are missing it. People are like, “Well, my blogs will write themselves now.” I’m like, “Okay, but who’s putting in the content for your blogs?” Or, “Oh, it’s going to put this product on my website faster.” Okay, but who’s double-checking it?  Where’s the shipping going? Where are the numbers going? People need to think about the fact that we’re doing things way faster. And then there’s fatigue. We’re being exposed to things at the swipe of a finger. You can see six, seven, eight things happening, and that’s exhausting. What is happening to the mental load of decision-making? Yeah. And then at the same time, it’s not just that we have to make more decisions, but there’s more noise out in the market. So you’re out-competing… Okay, everyone else is more productive, so it’s just a war of… what’s the opposite of a war of attrition?  I don’t even know. I know what you’re talking about, but it’s like you have to be so intentional now. Yeah. It’s the war of overwhelm, basically. Yes. The war of overwhelm. Yeah, that’s wonderful. Okay, but let’s go back to Fifth & Cor. Basically, you’ve come out of your discovery with this blueprint, and then you have this team approach. These people are all fully self-realizing in the five areas of their lives, and they’re coming together, working together, and incorporating AI. So who is an ideal client that can really take advantage of everything you can do? Not just parts of it, but everything. What’s the ideal client for you?  I love that question. An ideal client is not an industry or a revenue number they have to have. An ideal client is someone who comes with a problem and is flexible and agile enough to let us come up with a solution. And they’re a true partner. We’ve had a client who’s been with us for four and a half years, all the way since our inception, and they’ve been able to roll with all the new changes.  They trust us. So it’s someone who is innovative in their business. They’re willing to be agile as they move. That is the perfect client. Revenue does not matter. You can have all the revenue in the world, but if you’re slow to adapt or you’re not willing to go with the times and the changes, that’s a problem. What we did pre-Covid does not work right now. The same things that worked six months ago don’t work now. So the ideal client must be someone who’s willing to be innovative, attract new ideas, and execute quickly.  Do you have a way to help your clients be more like that?  Yes. Even in our onboarding stakeholder session, before we do a discovery call and present the proposal, we talk to them about that. We help them get set up. We come up with SOPs so they have documented processes throughout the entire engagement. I always say, “In case we get hit by the lottery bus…”  That’s my way of saying, if we disappear tomorrow, you have systems in place so your business won’t need us. So we help them grow, and then we have checkpoints with them. “Okay, are we doing this? These are the results. This is what you trusted us with over the past 30 days. Here’s what we’re doing over the next 30 days.” So we’re constantly meeting with them and saying these things. The clients who don’t work out long-term are the ones who say, “No, we’ve always done it this way, and we’re going to keep doing it that way.”  Those are the ones where I’m like, “Well, why did you even call us? If you’ve always done it that way and you weren’t getting results, that’s the definition of insanity.” So it’s clients who are willing to move with us, move with the times, and are willing to bring in other teams. I love that. They’ll bring in their tech team, or they’ll bring in their logistics team, to sit there and say, “Okay, what are we doing, and how do we take it to the next level?” Love it. And you can only do this with A players because otherwise it would be very painful. Love it. So if you’re listening to this podcast and Robin Dimond explaining her business and how she’s putting her employees first and making sure they have a well-rounded life so they can live up to their potential inside the business, while also harnessing their own growth ideas, so you’re tapping into what they already want to do.  Then the clients are brought along, and the same thing happens to them. They’re inspired, they’re challenged to do better, and then you help them. So if you want to be a client who enjoys that kind of approach, then my question to you, Robin, is: where can they find you and your colleagues, and what should be their first step? Perfect. You can find us at fifthandcor.com. Fifth represents the five senses, and Cor is Latin for “heart.” So that’s the reason why we do everything—the heart behind our senses. So, fifthandcor.com, or you can find us on LinkedIn. You can personally reach out to me. It’s Robin Dimond. I’d love to connect with you. I already have 30,000 connections, so I’d love to do that and set up a meeting with you.  That’s fantastic. Both my parents were doctors. My dad passed away, but my mother is still a dermatologist, and my dad was a cardiologist. They had a company, and it was called Dermacor, which is basically the skin and the heart. I love that. Yeah. Well, now that we know we’re related… I feel like that’s just part of our story too.  Yeah, that’s a Central European idea, perhaps. So if you enjoyed this episode, obviously reach out to Fifth & Cor, find out more about what Robin and her team are up to, and stay tuned because every week I bring a wonderful entrepreneur like Robin who’s got great ideas, and you can try to steal their ideas. So thanks for coming, Robin, and thanks for listening.  Thank you. Important Links: Robin's LinkedIn Robin's  website

We sit down with Josh Sprague, founder of Orange Mud and Seven Clay, to unpack the hard pivot from jack-of-all-trades operator to disciplined builder. He shares how a simple birthday joke at his office turned into a serious wake-up call, and why implementing EOS, org charts, and SOPs let him stop being the bottleneck without lowering standards.From there we go deep on the craft behind endurance gear. Josh explains the biomechanics that drive a truly stable hydration pack, why stability prevents chafing, and how fabric choices, breathable spacer mesh, ripstop nylon, and YKK zippers add up to durability you can trust for long trail runs, ultramarathons, gravel rides, and adventure races. He also tells the unfiltered startup story: ugly early prototypes, the mystery of tech packs, factories that will not call you back, and how one good connection can change everything.We also tackle the complicated economics of “Made in USA” versus overseas production, plus the exact kind of frustration that sparks new companies. When local shops could not deliver quality embroidery, Josh built Seven Clay and scaled it nationwide. If you care about product design, manufacturing, small business scaling, customer feedback loops, and endurance performance, this conversation delivers real decisions, not vague motivation. Subscribe, share this with a founder or athlete friend, and leave a review with your biggest takeaway: where are you still being the “fixer” in your own life?Website:https://www.orangemud.com/?srsltid=AfmBOorJsXpTkD5q-ZFa8rT3EU-qgw4jKNmhh79Eo2LUkrk3otAxOc5RInstagram: @orangemudhttps://www.instagram.com/orangemud?igsh=eXhiNWxyZXVvazI1@sevenclayhttps://www.instagram.com/sevenclay?igsh=eGNoYzIzY2NrZmIwShoutout to:Josh SpragueThe Sprague FamilyAg-Gear Store https://www.aggearstore.com/Use Code: Milesmountains For 15% Off Raising Awareness:Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women (MMIW)Mental Health Send us Fan Mail

Are you managing AI adoption on your team, or is it managing you?In this episode, hosts John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann tackle one of the biggest leadership challenges right now: helping employees embrace AI instead of fearing it. They dig into why change resistance almost always comes down to a perceived loss of privacy, trust, individuality, or job security, and why leaders need to name that directly instead of dancing around it.Rich shares eight AI use guidelines he built with a coaching client, covering everything from opt in consent for recordings to being transparent about AI shaped outputs to rewriting things in your own voice. John and Rich also get into piloting small AI use cases for quick wins, capturing institutional knowledge into SOPs and competency models, hiring for AI embracing talent, and mentoring employees into higher level work.What you'll walk away with: a clear framework for setting AI ground rules on your team, practical ways to pilot AI without overwhelming your people, how to turn tribal knowledge into documented systems before it walks out the door, what to look for when hiring for an AI forward culture, and why focus groups and open communication matter more than a top down mandate.Hosted by John St. Pierre and Rich Hoffmann, Entrepreneurs United is built for founders and leaders who want straight talk on building businesses that actually work. New episodes every week.https://entrepreneursunited.us/links

Ever feel like your group practice is running you instead of the other way around? Yeah, you're not alone. That's why Uriah sat down with his friend Whitney Owens, founder of Wise Practice Consulting and one of the smartest group practice owners he knows, for her fifth time on the show. They got into the systems that keep a growing practice from turning into chaos, and the kinds of overwhelm almost every owner runs into along the way. In this episode, they talk about the first systems you need to get right (intake, billing, and hiring), why hiring for values beats hiring for experience, the real reasons group practice owners feel so overwhelmed, and how a solid team and good SOPs can give you the freedom to step away when life calls for it. Whether you're in year one or year ten, building your first systems or fine-tuning the ones you've got, this one will help you grow without burning out.

This Episode is Sponsored by StayFi Your ultimate tool for Vacation Rental WiFi marketing allowing you to collect guest emails automatically via custom captive WiFi login splash pages. Drive repeat direct bookings and convert your OTA bookings to book direct for their next visit. Visit https://stayfi.com/vrsuccess/ and use code VRSUCCESS for 50% off 3 months of StayFi service. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ This episode almost wasn't the one you're hearing. Heather had already recorded, edited, and prepared social media for a different episode when a morning of reflection sent her down a different path instead. The trigger was rereading her own contribution to Brooke Pfautz's book Vacation Rental Secrets, written a few years back - an unusually honest account of the mistakes she made running CottageLink Rental Management, the property management company she sold four years ago. Reading it back, Heather noticed a pattern. None of the mistakes came from working too little or caring too little. Every one of them came from not having the tools to see clearly, document what she knew, or build systems that didn't depend on her being at the centre of everything. That reflection became this episode: ten specific, practical things she would do differently if she were running a property management business today, with the AI tools now available. This is a solo teaching episode, released the week the second cohort of the AI Ambassador Program opens. It is aimed squarely at operators who want to know, in concrete terms, what using AI well in a property management business actually looks like - not in theory, but from someone who has run the business, made the mistakes, and now has the tools to fix them. Key Takeaways Build a brand voice document before writing a single word of copy. Capture your tone, values, and the phrases that are distinctly yours before you ask AI to write anything on your behalf - otherwise inconsistency creeps in and your team, guests, and owners start to feel it. Stop letting every vendor demo convince you a new platform will fix your business. Your PMS is the one system that genuinely needs a professionally built, purpose-designed solution - but beyond that, a lot of what operators buy off the shelf could now be built to fit their specific business instead. Document every process before it only exists in your head. Talk a process through, out loud, while you're doing it and let AI structure it into a living SOP - the knowledge that only lives with the founder is a liability, not an asset. Build a genuine owner communication system, not just good intentions. Work through frameworks for the hard conversations in advance, and use AI to generate genuinely personal quarterly owner reports at scale, not a mail merge with names swapped in. Use AI to keep direct booking relationships warm, not just to build them. The follow-up sequences that go quiet the moment peak season hits are where most operators lose ground - AI can keep that infrastructure running consistently even when you're buried. Analyze reviews instead of just reading them. The most useful information is often buried inside five-star reviews as an aside - patterns that only become visible when reviews are aggregated and analysed rather than read one at a time. Build a real owner acquisition pipeline instead of relying on referrals. Referrals are a result, not a strategy - a proper follow-up sequence and a clear sense of the right-fit owner prevents leads from going cold. Build an institutional knowledge base, not just a folder of SOPs. Capture the reasoning behind decisions, not just the steps, so that judgement can travel with the business even as people move on. Treat AI as a thinking partner, not just a writing tool. The most valuable use of AI is stress-testing decisions before you commit to them, not just producing first drafts. Start with clear values and strategy, and let AI help you communicate them. Clarity about what you're building and who it's for makes every daily decision easier - and AI can help both articulate that strategy and communicate it consistently across a team. ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

July 8, 2026 Artificial intelligence is changing property management, but where should you start? In this episode of NARPM Radio, host Pete Neubig sits down with Lindsay Liu, Co-Founder and CEO of Super, to discuss how property managers can use AI to improve responsiveness, reduce repetitive work, and create more efficient operations. Lindsay shares a practical approach to AI adoption, the importance of SOPs and processes, and what property management teams can expect as AI continues to reshape the industry.

Why do your school's systems keep breaking, even after you've built the SOPs and invested in outside help? Chanie explains the real pattern behind it, and it isn't a discipline problem.In this episode:- Why even a $2.1 million consulting investment couldn't fix one leader's system- The real reason caretakers break their own rules under pressure- The four-part framework every system needs to actually hold: standard, ownership, rhythm, response- How to start noticing the invisible ways you rescue your team from consequencesTune in for why the fix isn't another template.Resources Mentioned:This Can't Be Normal by Chanie Wilschanski: https://thiscantbenormal.comAccess Chapter One of This Can't Be Normal for Free: https://thiscantbenormal.com/chapter-oneConnect With Us:Let's Chat on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chaniewilschanski/Join us on Substack: https://chaniewilschanski.substack.com/Mentioned in this episode:Sign up for the free Delegation Workshop: https://schoolsofexcellence.com/delegation

Phil Brown explains the 'Spheres of Acceptable Practice' model to help understand industry standards, local procedures, and instructor preferences in adventure and climbing safety. This episode covers how to navigate safety protocols, industry regulations, and personal techniques to ensure safety and compliance.   Spheres of Acceptable Practice model Industry safety standards and regulations Local operating procedures and vendor guidelines Instructor preferences and industry nuance Contact the podcast - podcast@high5adventure.org Instagram - @verticalplaypen Support the podcast - verticalplaypen.org

This episode was too good to leave in the archive! As part of our Summer Replay Series, we're revisiting my conversation with consultant, SaaS founder, and self-described AI fanatic Andrew Ansley — and honestly, his advice is even more relevant today.Andrew breaks down exactly how he uses ChatGPT and Claude to run multiple businesses, why "clouding up the context window" is killing your AI outputs, and how to train an AI assistant on your business in 30 minutes or less. Then we go deep on SEO: what actually changed after 2022, how Google understands content through entities and embeddings, and what it really takes to build topical authority today.Whether you're an SEO, a small business owner, or just AI-curious, this replay is packed with practical workflows you can put to work this week.What You'll LearnWhy you should delete the messy middle of your AI conversations (and keep only the first prompt + final output)How to set up AI "projects" for each client or task — with business info, SOPs, examples, and your unique perspectiveThe 4 pieces Andrew uploads to train an AI on any workflow in about 30 minutesWhy you must define abstract concepts (like "write an email" or "SEO strategy") instead of letting AI decide what they meanDefinition + example + template: the simple prompt formula that upgrades your outputsClaude vs. ChatGPT: where each tool shines (projects, styles, voice transcription, and more)How SEO changed after 2022: entities, semantics, and user metricsWhat topical authority actually means — going deeper, faster, or wider with your content clustersWhy the real ranking signal is whether searchers end their journey on YOUR siteThe "Could ChatGPT give them this?" test for creating content that still winsEpisode Highlights & Timestamps(00:00) Welcome + meet Andrew Ansley(01:00) Consultant, SaaS founder, community leader: how Andrew wears all the hats(02:00) Why Andrew (and Crystal!) are learning Python(03:30) Inside Andrew's Skool community: automate marketing with AI + n8n(05:30) The one-person, AI-powered business (could you scale to $10M solo?)(07:30) Don't cloud the context window: Andrew's clean-conversation trick(09:45) Building SOPs with AI in an hour instead of a week(10:30) ChatGPT Pro vs. Claude: Andrew's honest comparison(11:00) How to set up an AI project: business info, ICP, SOPs, examples & styles(16:00) The power of templates (stop reinventing the wheel!)(21:30) Screen share: how Andrew organizes projects, prompts & custom styles(28:00) From aspiring pastor to bartender to SEO: Andrew's origin story(36:00) AI as the ultimate learning tool for curious kids (and adults)(45:00) How SEO changed: keyword matching → RankBrain, BERT & semantic search(48:30) User metrics, mobile-first indexing, and ending the search journey(51:30) Topical authority explained: embeddings, content clusters & internal links(54:00) Why sites dip after agencies leave (core algorithm updates + historical metrics)(56:00) The "Could ChatGPT give them this?" content test(56:45) Where to connect with AndrewQuotable Moment"You cannot let the AI decide what abstract concepts mean. You have to define it — and if you give it an example, that's even better." — Andrew AnsleyConnect with Andrew AnsleySkool Community (AI Marketeers)YouTubeAndrew's article on Search Engine LandMentioned in This EpisodeContent Sprout (Andrew's SaaS)n8n (open-source automation alternative to Zapier)GoHighLevelKoray Tuğberk Gübür (topical authority & entity SEO)Bill Slawski (SEO research pioneer)Alex Hormozi & Sam Ovens (Skool)Connect with CrystalWebsiteLinkedInText me your questions or comments!Hey, Shopify store owners! (Especially if you're selling on Etsy, too!)Here's a quick question: Are people actually finding your products on Google?If SEO feels confusing, overwhelming, or like something you'll "get to later", this is for you.I'm hosting a free, seven day Shopify SEO challenge that breaks it down into simple, doable steps.No tech headaches, no fluff. Join us at  Hey, Shopify store owners! (Especially if you're selling on Etsy, too!)Here's a quick question: Are people actually finding your products on Google?If SEO feels confusing, overwhelming, or like something you'll "get to later", this is for you.I'm hosting a free, seven day Shopify SEO challenge that breaks it down into simple, doable steps.No tech headaches, no fluff. Join us atSupport the showFree checklist: Is your Shopify store quietly losing sales? Run the 5-minute self-check →Book a Shopify Store Strategy Call With Crystal!Want to follow up on what you've heard? Search the podcast!AFFILIATE LINKS:Start your Shopify Store!Get SurferSEO!Metricool (to be everywhere online, you NEED a social media scheduler!)Grid and PixelNote: If you make a purchase using some of my links, I make a little money. But I only ever share products, people, & offers I trust & use myself!

Are you struggling to scale your aesthetic practice, or wondering how to actually use artificial intelligence without creating more work for yourself? In this episode of Beauty Bytes, I am joined by Annie Robertson Hockey, the President of Skytale Group and former co-CEO of a nationally chartered infrastructure bank. Annie brings her incredible Silicon Valley experience and Stanford Business School background to the aesthetic industry to share her top strategies for business growth and technological integration. We discuss the critical mental shift doctors must make to become successful CEOs, including how to take yourself out of the equation by building standard operating procedures (SOPs) that can scale your business two, five, or ten times its size.  We also dive deep into the responsible use of AI in your practice. Annie explains why you should treat AI like a fresh, eager college graduate, allowing it to automate rudimentary tasks so your brain can focus on critical problem-solving and high-level strategy. We cover how to prompt tools like Claude to teach you about their own systems, and how integrating platforms like Illume and Corral Data over your EMR can instantly surface powerful revenue analytics without needing a dedicated data team.  Guest Information:Annie Robertson Hockey is the President of Skytale Group and an experienced Silicon Valley entrepreneur and board member.

This is an AI-generated episode of The Storage Marketplace Podcast, created from the live discussion at Storage Meetup #84, recorded live on June 26, 2026. Every Friday, self-storage owners, operators, managers, vendors, and industry professionals gather live to discuss what's working, what's changing, and what's next for the industry. In this episode, we explore some of the biggest conversations from the meetup, including: • A live demonstration of Lumio, an AI workforce designed to handle real operational tasks for self-storage facilities • How AI is evolving from simple chatbots into systems that learn your SOPs and improve over time • Whether AI customer service is beginning to outperform traditional call centers for routine tenant interactions • Why trade shows are seeing changing attendance patterns and how online communities are reshaping industry education • The growing importance of community, collaboration, and learning beyond annual conferences • A preview of the upcoming 3 Mile Challenge, a hands-on program covering Google Business Profiles, local marketing, AI, automation, pricing, websites, reviews, and the complete customer journey One of the biggest takeaways from this session:

What's really behind the drop in Facebook ad lead quality, and more importantly, what can coaches do about it? Today's episode features Lance C. Greenberg, scaling strategist and Facebook ads expert, who joins Marc to break down why most coaches are attracting the wrong leads. He also reveals what Meta's AI is actually looking for, and why having a playbook could be the difference between wasted ad spend and a system that actually works! Do you have something that helps coaches, like a program, a product or a service? If you'd like to get your offer out to about 100,000 coaches, Marc currently has openings for partnerships (with a special summer offer), and you can get the details and book a call to chat with him about it at www.jvwithmarc.com/!  This episode was edited and produced by Marc's brother Matt and his team and PodAssist, and right now they're offering listeners of this show a very special discount on their services. You can now get your brand-new audio podcast launched in as little as 2 weeks for just $297 USD, which is $400 off their regularly-priced package by mentioning this show. That's just $297 to get personally coached and supported by Matt, from concept to your show going live, and all you have to do is visit PodAssist.com to learn more and book a call. But hurry, being a small team their spots are limited, and don't forget to mention that Marc sent you!  What You'll Hear In This Episode: Why poor lead generation doesn't just hurt your pipeline, and the impact of the survival response it triggers. The four layers Lance uses to measure lead quality, and why financial qualification alone isn't enough. The real reason so many coaches are experiencing lower lead quality on Meta right now, plus what the platform's AI is actually doing behind the scenes. Why scaling looks different for everyone, and how Lance decides whether a client should max out organic first or go straight to ads. Why handing off your ads without systems, SOPs, and a playbook is a recipe for wasted spend. How to set your daily ad budget based on your offer price and a simple formula, instead of just picking a random number.  LINKS:  Lance's Website & Instagram  Book a no-obligation 1:1 strategy call with Marc for your coaching business: http://www.chatwithmarcm.com   If you'd like more coaching clients without sending cold messages or spending money on ads, the Natural Born Coach Program is for you. Get the details here! http://www.nbcprogram.com Join The Coaching Jungle Facebook Group! http://www.thecoachingjungle.com   Become a Coaching Jungle VIP member which includes special posting perks in the group to reach almost 30,000 potential clients! http://www.myjunglevip.com Grow your business with The Coaching Jungle Mastermind! http://www.coachingjunglemastermind.com If you have a product or service that helps coaches, and you'd like to get it in front of 100,000 of them: http://www.jvwithmarc.com

You don't need another productivity hack. You need systems that still work when your brain doesn't.Cas Aarssen built the Clutterbug Method, hosted HGTV's Hot Mess House, and grew a global brand by stopping the fight against her ADHD and designing her home and business around how she naturally works.In this conversation, she shares the hard lessons that came from burnout, why traditional organizing advice kept failing her, and how building systems around real habits instead of ideal ones changed everything. From running a team without endless SOPs to creating spaces that stay functional even on hard days, Cas explains what it actually takes to build systems that last.If you've ever felt like you're constantly rebuilding your life from scratch, this episode offers a more sustainable way forward.What We CoverWhy burnout pushed her to rethink the way she workedBuilding systems around your actual habits instead of your ideal selfThe Clutterbug Method and why one organizing style doesn't fit everyoneDelegating through ownership instead of endless SOPsCreating a home and business that work with an ADHD brain, not against itConnect With Cas Aarssenhttps://clutterbug.me/what-clutterbug-are-you-testIf you're an entrepreneur with ADHD who's tired of being asked “Why don't you just hire/make a system/delegate?”  We've gotchu! Click here for a free copy of my 5-year-tested Focus Filter. Instant relief for work-related overwhelm.Find out what's holding you back. I'll personally build you a simple plan to fix it. Click here to grab one.Join my Focused Balanced Growth Program. If you're tired of getting blank looks in masterminds full of neurotypical advice, this is for you. Weekly Monday Motivation sessions, plus content you can binge or dip into for strategies specific to you. Apply here.Your Business Operations Built for Your ADHD Brain. Feel like you can never really delegate because you can't explain how to do it? Struggling to hire someone who feels like a natural fit for your business? Let us handle it for you. We specialize in using our years of ADHD research and practical support to act as your fractional COO, handling the back-end operations in a way that feels light and keeps you focused. Learn more here.

Send us Fan MailMichael Kloepper, former commander of the 173rd Airborne Brigade and current Brigade Tactical Officer at the United States Military Academy, joins Joe to explore leadership, readiness, and the responsibility to pass hard-earned lessons to the next generation.This episode examines what it means for a generation of leaders shaped by more than two decades of war to “empty the rucksack” before leaving the Army. Michael reflects on the urgency he and many of his peers feel to pass on what they learned through success, failure, command, and combat so future generations do not have to repeat the same mistakes.Colonel Kloepper also shares how his experiences in battalion and brigade command shaped his views on mental, physical, and spiritual readiness. Rather than simply pointing soldiers toward more resources, he believes leaders and chains of command have a responsibility to create healthier organizations. He explains how programs built around outdoor challenges, shared hardship, reflection, and time with teammates helped reduce high-risk behavior while strengthening trust and readiness.Joe and Michael also discuss:Why learning organizations must do more than collect informationWhy leaders should invest in people before problems occur instead of only responding afterwardHow shared challenges and time outdoors can strengthen teams and reduce destructive behaviorWhy people fight for what they believe inWhy accessibility matters, especially when information is not moving through the chain of commandThe difference between highlighting problems and becoming a reactionary leaderWhy presence remains one of the most important qualities of leadershipWhat lieutenants and captains should understand about character, toughness, command authority, and exampleWhat Mike has learned from leading and developing cadets at West PointThis episode is for leaders who want to build stronger organizations, invest more deeply in their people, and pass hard-earned lessons forward. It is also for veterans reflecting on what their service meant, commanders trying to create healthier teams, and anyone who believes leadership begins with presence, trust, and the willingness to stand alongside people when things are hard.Watch the interview on YouTubeA special thanks to this week's sponsors!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. 

Gemma Luzzi was collecting a $75-a-week paycheck for walking two dogs when she decided to start introducing herself as CEO. Not because she had a team, or a client roster, or a plan. Because she'd already left one identity behind and refused to build the next one small. This episode is a masterclass in becoming someone before your results catch up. In this episode we dive into:​Why "acting like the CEO" before you have a single client is the highest-leverage move most new business owners never make​How a $75-a-week dog walking business replaced a full corporate income in three months​Why selling a thriving six-figure business came with more guilt than starting it did​How in-person networking events became Gemma's most reliable client and content pipelineFurloughed, Fed Up, and $75 A Week​Gemma spent years in corporate recruiting and HR, was furloughed during COVID, then called back in January 2021 for being too good at her job​She told her boss three separate times she wasn't happy. New responsibilities, then a raise. The third time, her boss said, "That's for you to figure out now"​Every night after a draining 9-to-5, she set a 5-minute timer and researched what she actually wanted, letting the timer run longer each week​She left corporate in November with no business plan, using a booked trip to Aruba as the deadline that would force her out the doorActing Like The CEO Before There Was Anything To Run​At $75 a week walking two dogs, she was embarrassed enough to hide it from people who knew her old corporate title​One blunt question from someone close, "are you actually going to make this work," pushed her to a decision: start acting like the CEO of the company today​She introduced herself as CEO at networking events and wrote SOPs and employee handbooks while she still had exactly two dogs and one client​The business replaced her full corporate income in three months, then scaled to six figures, until 7-day weeks and 15 overnights straight forced her to finally learn to delegateFrom Dog Walking To Discernment-Based Coaching​She sold the business to her own right-hand employee, then sat in a hotel parking lot wrestling the guilt of walking away from something that looked perfect on paper​She rebuilt her identity again, bought a blazer, tried to sound like other coaches online, until she went back to cursing and just being herself​That shift became Profit Partner, her coaching container built on self-trust and discernment instead of one-size-fits-all frameworks​She launched CEO Sessions, in-person networking events in New Jersey that sell out every time and now double as her most reliable client and content pipelineThis conversation is proof there's no such thing as one way to build a business, only the way that actually feels true to you. Whether you're sitting on the couch with your first $75 paycheck or you're the one who has to decide it's time to sell what you built, this episode offers the permission to keep evolving instead of picking one identity and staying stuck in it.Looking for more on this? Check out Episode 1, "There's No Such Thing As Picking Just One Lane," where we explore refusing to fit into one clean box.Follow Krysta:Instagram: ⁠@thekrystahuber⁠⁠⁠⁠@thefitnessfyx⁠⁠⁠@thespreadmktg ⁠Connect with Gemma:Instagram: @therealgemmaluzz for real talk on money, mindset, and building a bizInstagram: @ceosessionsnj to catch her next in-person networking event in New JerseyWebsite: gemmaluzz.com Podcast – Confessions of a CEOSpotify & Apple Podcasts

In this episode of Business Brain, we break down Anthropic’s surprise release of Claude Sonnet 5, a leaner, more agentic model built for the daily grind of coding, automation, and multi-step tool use, and why we’re shifting our default from Opus to save tokens without sacrificing quality. We also dig into the new OpenClaw iOS app, which finally gives us voice control and location-sharing baked right into our personal AI agent, and why pairing it with Tailscale unlocks near-magical remote access from anywhere. From outfit suggestions based on real-time location to bigger questions about where local, on-device models are headed, we cover why this shift toward privacy-first AI is picking up serious steam. Then we shift to a tool a listener put on our radar: Supercut, a screen recording app we think might finally dethrone Loom. We walk through why its AI editor, which automatically cuts between screen and face depending on the moment, keeps viewers hooked, and how features like flexible framing, instant captions, and a new MCP integration make it a serious contender for SOPs, tutorials, and team wrap-ups. We also get real about when async video communication helps and when it backfires, plus why we think local LLMs are the next big shift every business owner needs to watch. It’s this constant hunt for smarter tools and sharper workflows that keeps us living the Charmed Life. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs' Podcast #767 for Casual FridAI, July 3, 2026 July 3rd: National Independent Beer Run Day 00:01:04 Anthropic Sonnet 5 is out OpenClaw for iPhone and Android are released 00:09:41 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN 00:11:13 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career! 00:12:55 Supercut AI 00:22:12 Business Brain 767 Outtro This Episode's Big Takeway: Get ready to hear more — and learn more — about using local LLMs Check out Business Brain Blueprints Tell Your Friends! Business Blueprints Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post OpenClaw for iOS + Supercut – Business Brain 767 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Send us Fan MailTrust is the real life safety system, and when it fails, everything else starts to break. Host Kevin Ferrara makes a direct case for why transparency and accountability matter more in fire and EMS than they ever will in a boardroom. We talk about the old habit of “keep it in house,” why that mindset collapses under modern scrutiny, and how clear communication becomes tactical strength for leaders who want safer operations and a healthier culture.We start inside the station with internal transparency: the difference between giving orders on the fireground and leading an organization day to day. We dig into how hidden decisions around budgets, promotions, policy changes, staffing, and discipline create an information vacuum where rumors thrive. You'll hear practical ways to share the why, using data, close call learning, and modern fire dynamics, so crews can understand new SOPs and actually buy into them.Then we go outside the walls. In a smartphone era, the public will learn about delayed response times, equipment failures, or misconduct. The only question is whether they hear it from a leak or from a chief who can stand up, explain what happened, and lay out what changes next. We also connect transparency to public funding realities, community trust, and the long game of earning support before the next crisis.If you lead in emergency services or you plan to, hit play and take the three challenges seriously: open the books, own the bad calls first, and build a bridge to the community. Subscribe, share this with a leader you respect, and leave a review so more firefighters, medics, and chiefs can find the conversation.DISCLAIMERThe views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during this podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of AFSO21's Weekend Wrap-up Podcast and its hosts. Furthermore, any views or opinions expressed by guests are their own alone and unless otherwise stated, do not reflect the opinions, beliefs, or official policies of any organization, institution, or employer they may be associated with or employed by.  Support the showContact AFSO21's Weekend Wrap-up Podcast - Email us at podcast@afso21.comAs always, keep supporting your local fire and emergency services, stay safe, and keep on listening!

PATH TO SIGNIFICANCE | The best business owners don't just ask what needs to get done. They ask, "What could run better?" Learn how thinking like a COO can improve the systems behind your leads, transactions, and marketing to build a business that scales. Access the COO resource.    In this episode: 00:17 CEO vs COO Hats 01:44 Defining the COO Role 02:51 Three Pillars Framework 05:27 Monthly COO Rhythm 06:22 SOPs and Role Clarity 08:38 Audit Client Experience 10:35 Strategic Questions to Ask 12:10 Fixing Repeat Problems 16:45 Make Time for Thinking 18:52 Tools to Get Started 20:56 Books and Final Advice   Subscribe to the More Than More Podcast for new weekly episodes as we discuss building meaningful and impactful businesses, careers, and lives through real estate. Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube 

Professional Builders Secrets brings you an exclusive episode featuring Leah Ward, Executive Business Coach at APB. If you're feeling overwhelmed, buried in the day-to-day and struggling to step back from your building company, this episode is exactly what you need. Leah shares practical, no-nonsense advice on how to identify your biggest pain points, build systems that actually stick, and start reclaiming your time without losing control of your business.This episode is sponsored by Apparatus Contractor Services, click the link below to learn more:hubs.ly/Q02mNSsG0INSIDE EPISODE 245 YOU WILL DISCOVER Why overwhelm in building companies is a system problemWhy stepping back feels harder than staying in the chaosHow to identify the right place to start when everything feels urgentWhy handing off tasks without handing off decisions is keeping you stuckHow to build SOPs that actually get used rather than just sitting on paperWhy AI is one of the most powerful tools builders have to reduce noise and reclaim focusHow to train your team's judgment, not just their tasks and much, much more.ABOUT LEAH WARDWith more than two decades in corporate finance and leadership, Leah's coaching approach is deeply rooted in enhancing financial performance, nurturing effective communication, developing mindset strategies, and fostering team building. Her extensive experience in financial management and consulting has provided her with a profound understanding of the key factors that drive success for both companies and their teams.Connect with Leah: linkedin.com/in/leahmward/TIMELINE 2:16 Why overwhelm keeps coming up with builders and what it's really costing them8:12 Why builders struggle to let go and how identity plays a bigger role than most realise12:38 Where to start when everything feels like a problem that needs fixing14:55 Why handing off a task while keeping the decision is the root cause of most delegation failures21:55 How AI can take the noise out so builders can focus on what actually matters27:27 Leah's final advice for builders who want to break the cycle and start moving forwardLINKS, RESOURCES & MOREAPB Website: associationofprofessionalbuilders.comAPB Rewards: associationofprofessionalbuilders.com/rewards/APB on Instagram: instagram.com/apbbuilders/APB on Facebook: facebook.com/associationofprofessionalbuildersAPB on YouTube: youtube.com/c/associationofprofessionalbuilders

summaryIn this episode, Boluwa Olojo shares valuable lessons from her experiences in paid media, including a recent Meta ad mishap, and discusses how to effectively use AI in marketing. She emphasizes the importance of accountability, continuous checking, and the need for expertise in leveraging AI tools. key topicsMeta ad mistakes and how to fix themUsing AI responsibly in marketingImportance of SOPs and default settings awarenessLessons from campaign mishaps and recovery strategiesThe role of cross-department communication in campaign successChapters00:00 Introduction and Event Recap03:30 Boluwa Olojo: Background and Expertise06:11 Creative Pursuits: Painting and Inspiration08:14 PPC Mistakes: Learning from Experience10:08 Meta Ads: A Case Study in Mistakes13:13 Handling Mistakes: Communication and Responsibility16:15 Emotional Impact of Mistakes19:10 Lessons Learned and Future Strategies22:15 Advice for PPC Professionals25:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts28:00 Taking Accountability in Marketing Mistakes29:12 The Importance of Campaign Checks31:52 Identifying Common Mistakes in New Accounts33:06 The Dangers of Mismatched URLs36:57 Breaking Down Silos in Marketing Teams38:45 AI in Marketing: Common Missteps42:18 The Role of Experts in Utilizing AI45:17 Final Thoughts and Future Events49:15 Introduction and Importance of Transparency50:12 Upcoming PPC Live Event Details51:01 Client Services and Personal Development51:32 Outro.mp3 resourcesFollow Bolu on LinkedIn and InstagramListen to her on State of Markketing?PPC Live The Podcast features weekly conversations with paid search experts sharing their experiences, challenges, and triumphs in the ever-changing digital marketing landscape.PPC Live is sponsored by ⁠AdSquire⁠, the first law firm paid media agency to get their clients on ChatGPTJoin the next ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠PPC Live ⁠⁠⁠⁠eventFollow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow us on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Twitter⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Join our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Slack Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Subscribe to our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Newsletter⁠⁠⁠

To learn more about Breakthrough Academy, click here: https://trybta.com/EP279Download Rob's AI Opportunity Scorecard: https://trybta.com/DL279AI is exposing everything that's broken in your contracting business……before it fixes anything.Everyone's racing to adopt AI right now. But here's what nobody's saying: if your workflows are messy, AI doesn't clean them up. It accelerates the chaos. This episode is your filter; a practical, no-hype walkthrough of where AI for contractors actually fits, where it makes things worse, and how to know if your business is even ready.If you're running a contracting company and feeling the pressure to "do something with AI" before you fall behind, this is the episode to listen to first.In This Episode:

Have an idea or tip? Send us a text!Spreadsheets, whiteboards, and “the one person who knows everything” can keep a volume photography studio running, right up until the moment they stop scaling. Gary Pageau of The Dead Pixels Society is joined by Seenu Yellapu (ScheduLink) and Michael Rak (Artona Group) to talk about the overlooked side of school and volume photography: the operational admin work that surrounds every shoot, from scheduling and staffing to task handoffs, notes, and repeatable processes you can actually trust. We get specific about what breaks with Excel: no true data ownership, multiple versions of truth, and tribal knowledge that disappears when staff turns over. Then we unpack how ScheduleLink approaches studio workflow automation by building your SOPs into the platform with templates, default values, task assignments, and visibility across each step. We also talk about onboarding reality, why implementation can feel daunting, and how importing data and iterating while you use the system can make adoption faster for real working studios. Privacy and student data security come up as a serious differentiator. We discuss role-based access, limiting what contract photographers can see, and secure ways to collect school data without leaving it scattered across inboxes and laptops. Finally, we look ahead to profitability and decision making: combining operational data with revenue inputs so studios can understand which schools are truly profitable, not just busy. If you care about volume photography operations, studio management software, and running a tighter production season, subscribe, share this with a studio owner, and leave a review.Energize your sales with Shareme.chat, the proven texting platform. ShareMe.Chat ShareMe.Chat platform uses chat-to-text on your website to keep your customers connected and buying!MediaclipMediaclip strives to continuously enhance the user experience while dramatically increasing revenue.Independent Photo ImagersIPI is a member + trade association and a cooperative buying group in the photo + print industry.Photo Imaging CONNECTThe Photo Imaging CONNECT conference, March 2027, at the RIO Hotel and Resort in Las Vegas, NDisclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. If you make a purchase, I may receive a commission at no extra cost to you.Support the showSign up for the Dead Pixels Society newsletter at http://bit.ly/DeadPixelsSignUp.Contact us at gary@thedeadpixelssociety.comVisit our LinkedIn group, Photo/Digital Imaging Network, and Facebook group,  The Dead Pixels Society. Leave a review on Apple and Podchaser. Are you interested in being a guest? Click here for details.Hosted and produced by Gary PageauAnnouncer: Erin Manning

Tiff and Nikki dive into all things tech + dentistry, including what practices can implement to make the day-to-day more efficient for staff and convenient for the patient — all while keeping that personal human touch. Episode resources: Subscribe to The Dental A-Team podcast Schedule a Practice Assessment Leave us a review Transcript: Tiff (00:00) Hello, Dental A Team listeners. I am back here today with you, with one of my favorite Dental A Team consultants. We have a few consultants, and they're all my favorite, but I'm here today with Miss Nikki Mack, who many of you have met over the course of the last few months that she has been with Dental A Team, and all of you know she has a vast amount of experience in the dental industry, and she's right here in town with myself and Britt and   Gosh Pam, everybody's here. Dana's down south, but that's okay. Nikki's here and she's here with me today. And Nikki, welcome to the podcast. I am so excited to have you here today. We're gonna have so much fun together. You are a bundle of energy and a bundle of fun. And I'm just excited to be here. So how are you? How are you loving this like semi cloudy weather we've got and what's life in Nikki's world look like?   Nikki Mack (00:49) Gosh.   It's been fantastic. I'm super happy to be back. I had so much fun last time. ⁓ and actually I'm really excited about today's topic too. So that helps, obviously, but I can't wait to talk about it. ⁓ it's gorgeous. It's still over a hundred, but you know, we learned to live with what we can get. the gloomy skies, a little bit of humidity, maybe some sprinkles. Like that's I'm ready. That's a great way to kick off my weekend. So I'm here for it.   Tiff (01:00) Yeah. Yeah.   I know.   I agree.   I agree. This is like the one time, I don't know, in maybe my entire life of living in Arizona that I can't say, yeah, it's over a hundred, but it's a dry heat, 'cause it's over a hundred and humid. So I'm not really sure what to do with that. I'm like, it's cloudy, can I go outside? And I'm like, gosh, it's still really it's still a hundred and five. So I'm not sure w how to I'm not sure how to act.   Nikki Mack (01:31) Yeah.   Yeah.   Cloudy skies make me want a sweater, but then I walked outside and I was like, ⁓ no, that's not. That's not what's happening here. So we might have a real monsoon season this year. I can't wait.   Tiff (01:43) Yeah.   I know.   I know. We're supposed to. We're supposed to. So we will, listeners, we will keep you in the loop on the Arizona weather. I know everybody's always dying to know. I actually it's one of the most like most often asked questions that I get when I do travel. So I know you're all just dying to hear about it. We will keep you posted. ⁓ but I agree Yeah. Yeah. Always wanted to be a meteorologist, you know. Here we are. Here we are.   Nikki Mack (01:58) Yeah.   We're here for your weather updates and your dental ⁓ improvements. That's what we do.   Tiff (02:17) but I agree, today's topic is actually really fun and ⁓ it's it's tech techie and I think tech in dentistry can mean so many things. And so we'll narrow down kind of what we're chatting about today and and to to make it easy, I think tech has been so like virtually involved since COVID shutdowns and we've just really spun in dentistry on so many different platforms.   Be used. So tech in the dental industry no longer just means we have a mill, we have a 3D printing machine, we have scanners, and that is tech, but there's so much more that goes into it and that can be involved in that that term that I'm really excited to talk about it today. And Nikki, I'm excited. I know you love tech and the technical industry and AI and all that stuff, and   And you you love to geek out on it ⁓ in your personal life. And like I think we all use those tools. So I'm excited to talk about it today. And and something that I want to start this out with today is really the idea of how much we use technology in our everyday lives and how much ⁓ convenience the American citizen is after. We want efficiency.   Nikki Mack (03:16) Yeah.   Tiff (03:37) We want convenience. We do a lot. We jam as much into our days as we possibly can. And so being able to use technology severely impacts our worlds. And gosh, even this morning we do every Friday, we do like our f our Friday fun Friday. What's the most fun thing we did? And Diana, one of our consultants on our team, she's like, gosh, this week I ordered my groceries and they were delivered to my house. And she's like, that was life changing because she's a busy mom.   And I was like, that's so funny. And then today we're talking about this. I mean, gosh, technology. We're ordering, we're ordering our groceries, we're ordering Amazon. Like, how much stuff do you order on Amazon even when you want to support the other, the other companies and the other stores? But how much are we ordering on Amazon? Because it's easy, that ease of access. We're scheduling as many appointments online as we can. I just paid a bill to my healthcare office online and making sure that we can do all of these things from our phones.   in the most convenient ways as possible has become such an industry standard and a and a life standard for so many of us. I want to chat about that today within the dental industry. And Nikki, you said something before we got on, you're taking some notes, you're doing some things, and I I want to highlight that note because first we'll go through kind of like what is technology, Nikki, in your in your world and the practices you're working with, how do you see practices really using   Nikki Mack (04:47) Yeah.   Tiff (05:01) technology in that fashion, like for efficiencies, for conveniences, what are you seeing in the dental industry that people can implement within their practices?   Nikki Mack (05:11) So I think the key when we talk about it is we want to do things that make it easier for us and convenient for the patient, right? Like those should be kind of the two, I feel like key core pieces before we use anything. But   We also have to keep in mind that technology doesn't have to replace that personal touch. Like they're still coming to see us. I'm still gonna greet them at the front desk, right? We're gonna ask how their vacation was. They're a part of our practice. But people do want that convenience and you want to help the office. So I see it in ways that can help the team be more efficient. ⁓ with like virtual appointment assistance, right? Online appointments. my gosh. I mean, in 2026, I can book my oil change.   online right i don't even have to call the auto shop   for that. People want to be able to book it online. And then that's one less phone call that you have to take that you can be interacting with a patient, right? Face to face, engaging. So a lot of ⁓ online appointment scheduling, ⁓ bill portals, billing reminders, being able to send off statements, people can respond to the link in that text and pay for it. ⁓ all of those kind of pieces usually are the key. And then not quite our topic today, but   with diagnostics, right? There's a lot of technology available that can really help you get some valuable information to put in front of the patient too. But that leads us back to efficiency, right? And offering that convenience to patients. So I think it's really those touch points is where I see it the most.   Tiff (06:25) Yeah.   Yeah.   Yeah,   I agree. And I think you you touched on that like AI component for the back office for diagnostic tools. We have we talked about earlier, you know, the scanners. We have all of these digital ⁓ so we say tech, right? But really we're talking about like digital technology, right? Because tech can be so broad. So we have all of these digital resources that really do c ⁓ create conveniences for the patient.   And I think we undervalue even Nikki, what you just said, we ha we have them in the back office for diagnostic tools. I think we undervalue the convenience that that can create for our patients because the convenience of understanding, I'm not la I'm not logically sitting here thinking with my forefront brain, wow, being able to see this on the on the screen is so convenient and it's making my life so much easier. But me being   Nikki Mack (07:25) Mm-hmm. ⁓   Tiff (07:29) A person who can understand this, do it in an efficient and an effective way, move my day quickly, say yes to scheduling, say yes to being healthier because I can visually see it. That's convenient and it's making my experience better. And it's also to your point, Nikki, all of those conveniences, appointment ⁓ scheduling online, confirming our appointments online, paying our bills online, seeing the   Seeing the AI version of my mouth, seeing how my teeth have changed, all of those things are cutting down on the effort that the human is having to put out so that that bucket of time and energy and capacity that has been left because we were using it on something else. Now we filled this capacity bucket with extra time. I can now sit as a dental professional and spend more time connecting.   with the human across from me because I'm not spending the time on the phone calling to schedule the appointment or answering to schedule the appointment or doing all these pieces. So not only is it more convenient, effective, and efficient for the patient, but the team is getting some time back as well when they're used correctly. And I think that's huge. I think it makes a massive difference.   Nikki Mack (08:47) my gosh, it's   it's so massive. I think people outside of dental probably don't realize it, but all of us in it, we know it, right? We live it. The single most valuable thing in a practice, in my opinion, is time because it doesn't matter if you're a one provider, four op practice, or if you have six providers and twenty-five ops or three locations, right? In dental, like   Tiff (09:02) Yeah.   Yeah.   Nikki Mack (09:11) Honestly, every minute adds up. Every right, that's why we don't want popcorn assistants who have to keep getting ⁓ things that we need for the treatment. It's why we want to be able to get a hold of a patient for a balance or an appointment so we're not circling back. Like time is so important. And if we can find these opportunities that give us some of that task time back and allow us, to your point, to   Connect with the patient, right? That's face-to-face time. That's patient time. That's such a win. And if that can also be something that's convenient for the patients and give them time back in their life, because who has time to sit and wait on hold? Right. They understand you're busy, but they might have a job too. So if I can pop online, get my question answered by you, it's win-win, in my opinion. Like it just works.   Tiff (09:57) I agree.   I completely agree. And on the flip side of that, well, I think I have two, I have two thoughts. So one thought is I have so many team members that and I would be this team member. I think if I weren't consulting and I didn't get to see it implemented in so many offices and so many practices correctly and effectively and work, I would be the team member that's like, heck no, you are not scheduling on my schedule without me doing it. I want the control, right? That that would be me. I don't even let   Nikki Mack (10:20) Yeah.   Tiff (10:27) the team schedule on my schedule right here. Like I am a control freak when it comes to my schedule. So I would be that team member, but I do have the availability to see it in so many different practices all over the country, even outside the country. We've got Canadian practices that are doing the same stuff we're doing. And I do get to see it work really well. ⁓ so I know on one side the teams are like, Tiffanie, Nikki, stop.   Nikki Mack (10:55) Okay.   Tiff (10:55) Do not, right?   There there's so many team members that are like, do not. And I want to say that there is friction and friction can cost time and money, right? If the systems and this is Nikki's gonna talk about this a ton, but if the systems aren't right and we're not using the tool correctly, then there's friction. And what I mean by that, I have two personal stories that actually line up with this so beautifully.   My first story is, ⁓ my fiance, he's got he's got two kids, wonderful human, beautiful children. His son needs ortho. Right. And so mom's like, Okay, took him to the the orthodontist, he's gonna get brackets on. It was yesterday, so it was a week from a week from the day. She's like, You just have to you have to call, set up the payments on your half or whatever, or pay it. He's like, Great, I'm gonna pay it. This man, I j I got home yesterday from travel. I said, Hey, Bryce, you know, Bryson got his his   Brackets on, did you were you able to go to pay them? Because when I left last week, he tried calling them. The gal who answered the phone like, you know what? The girl who takes care of that, she's with a patient right now. She's gonna have to call you back maybe tomorrow. He's like, That's weird. Okay. He's a financial advisor. And so he's like, people are trying to give you money, take the money, right? So he's like, What is going on here? Like, what are these roadblocks? Yeah, like take the money. There should be some system. He's literally sat in our living room and said, I don't understand there should be some sort of system set up   Nikki Mack (12:14) Really? my goodness.   Tiff (12:24) But there's a if she's not free, someone else can take it. And I was like, Yes, system, you're you're right. You've been listening. So then I said, Okay, did they call you? He's No, and it's Friday. I tried calling them, they're closed. I was like, that's weird. So then fast forward, I'm gone for a couple days this week. I get home yesterday. I'm like, Did you ever pay them? He's like, I literally had to track them down to get them to take my money. And I thought,   Nikki Mack (12:31) Mm-hmm.   Tiff (12:49) That patient experience, right? That parent experience, patient experience at this orthodontist has been so not ruined, but impacted because the barrier to entry was so difficult, right? And I'm like, gosh, if they could have just sent a link, or taken the number over the phone is one thing, but if they could have just sent a link, he could have taken care of it, it would have been done, nobody would have thought twice about it, he wouldn't have been frustrated because he doesn't.   have none of us have time to your point to call the practice and hunt them down to pay our bill right so that's my first story my second story is a bill I paid right I just told Nikki about this I'm like I paid I had a small bill due with my primary care physician I got the text or I got the email yesterday I was like this is phenomenal I love this right yes I will pay my bill so I pay it great got the email back it's taken care of well   Nikki Mack (13:28) Okay.   Tiff (13:45) 10 minutes before we get on this podcast call right now, I get an email. Same email. You have the same amount of money due to the primary care physician. And I'm like, well, this is frustrating because the barrier, again, the barrier of entry, right? And so efficiency matters. And then being able to use the efficient efficiency tools really matters because when   We go in thinking this is phenomenal. I'm gonna take care of this. This is great. It's gonna be so easy. But then it becomes difficult. That difficulty out of when you when you come off of using something that should be convenient, it was less convenient for me to try to answer a call for you to try to collect over the phone than for me to have used a tool, thought it worked, and now I'm frustrated that it didn't work. Right. So now I'm emailing them and trying to track them down to ensure they got my payment.   Nikki Mack (14:22) Mm-hmm.   Tiff (14:38) So that I'm not double paying. So the barrier of entry there on a tool that is supposed to be convenient, it's supposed to help me, causes more frustration when it's not used correctly than not using it at all. Does that make sense, Nikki?   Nikki Mack (14:54) It does.   Yep. A hundred percent. And I think this is where, ⁓ hopefully I'm not jumping ahead. This is where I think systems come into play. Look, if you've listened to a podcast, you've heard us talk about systems, right? But this is why systems are so important. my teams have heard me say this a million times already. Any great system is a bad system if we don't use it.   Tiff (15:00) No, do it. Yeah.   Nikki Mack (15:15) Right. And even when we talk about these technology options, they're so fantastic and they can really help support our systems and save us time. But they're not just going to automatically replace them. You have to be really intentional with how are we using it. ⁓ I actually you made me think of ⁓ with the online scheduling and and the tools. So   I've helped lots of offices implement online scheduling. And guys, I remember I sat at the front desk and I absolutely same thing heard like, we're gonna use this. And I was like,   a good idea. I think that I'll just handle all of that scheduling because I control the schedule and I know what's best. And you do, not to take away from that. You get it. But it doesn't mean there's not support. So anytime with a practice where with that example we roll online scheduling out, guys, we don't have to let it schedule everything to start.   We can just do new patients. We have blocks in our schedule. We know where they can go. We allow them to schedule appropriate. We can do recare exams. We put blocks in our schedule. We use the parameters built into that technology to only allow it in certain places. And then guess what? If a patient has an appointment request that's outside of those parameters, then they'll call the office because we still exist for a reason. And then we're there to help them.   get into the right place. So it doesn't have to be all or nothing. We use our systems, we identify where there's a pain point, and how can we use the technology available to us to alleviate that so that everybody wins and has that opportunity. And if someone hates scheduling online, my mom does. She can't stand it. It's she's so adorable. We just learned emojis, you know, so you know what world I'm in. It's a fun time. But she's never going to schedule an appointment online. She's not going to log into my chart.   She's just not gonna do it. Guess what? She can call her office. Right. We have those options to meet all of our patients where they are and give the best experience and set ourselves up for that success. So   Tiff (17:13) And to that point, when your mom does call the office to schedule, that team has more time to spend with her creating that value in that relationship and hand holding to schedule the appointment because other people are scheduling online. They're not on the they're not on the phone or the phones union or or whatever while she's calling because they're able to use this conveniency tool in other areas. Yeah.   Nikki Mack (17:38) Yep.   Tiff (17:39) When you say system, I think, gosh, everyone, every doctor that comes to Dental A Team says, I need systems. And I want to break that down because a system could be anything, right? I have a system for the way I wake up in the morning. I get up and I do the cat litter and I do the dishes and I do the laundry and I do the this and I do the that. But the system that we're talking about is an SOP, you guys. I think every doctor knows what an SOP means. An SOP, a standard operating protocol.   So a system, are your systems working for you? Is it do you know what that means? Do you know what it means to utilize the tool? How do you what is it? Why are you using it? What is the end result? So what is it supposed to be creating for you? If you've got, you know, patients, patients want to be able to schedule online. They want to be able to pay their bills online. They want to be able to text you. They want to be able to use these tools.   In an effective manner. So why are we using it? What is the end result we're after? We're after being able to confirm our schedule without having to pick up that phone. Right? Great, let's work backwards from there. What are the steps that it what are the tools? What are the steps? What is the accountability? Okay, because that accountability space it solves the no one ever uses this, it sucks, everyone hates it, and every time that they try to use it, it's broken. Anything   Nikki Mack (18:50) huh.   Tiff (19:02) Everyone, always, every time, no one, those like definitive words mean I am speaking to you from a pace place of emotion and I don't have a lot of data to back it up. So when we have when we have the accountability built into it and the data to back it up, we can say, is this tool the right tool for us? So there are there are multiple scheduling platforms.   Nikki Mack (19:15) Yeah, nine times out of ten. Absolutely.   Tiff (19:29) The first one you choose might not be the right one. It might not work the way that you want it to, but knowing what that end result is supposed to be to be able to say it is or is not working and not just an emotional say, I'm saying with data, these appointments are not working. Let's try a new one. It's a it's a give and a take there. So when we say the system has to work.   You've got to know what that means. You've got to create a protocol around it and create the accountability measurements to be able to say that it is or isn't working. And then patients aren't feeling the frustration of the tools not working, or if they are, that's your data point, right? Where is where are the frustrations for the team and the patient coming up? And Nikki, that's where you said take inventory.   What's not working right now, what's causing frustration right now, and the phones ringing off the hook seem to be causing frustration. Great. How do we solve that? And then how do we measure it to make sure that it's working? And Nikki, when you say, or when I ask frustration, right? When I ask frustration, what are some of the frustrating key points that you see patients come back to offices with that tells you?   Nikki Mack (20:33) Yeah.   Tiff (20:43) You know, this system's not working. You're consulting a practice and they're like, Gosh, my patients do this, this, this, and this, and you're like, Your system is not working. We've got to tackle the system, meaning the SOP, not the person. Where do you see those frustrations the most frequently?   Nikki Mack (20:59) You know, it's funny because actually I'm gonna refer back to your ortho team example. I think honestly that's usually it. And here here's the thing. don't mishear me. I love having somebody that's responsible for certain things, right? Like we have our new patient care coordinators, we have our treatment coordinators, we have in ortho, right? There's usually the money girl, I was the money girl, right? Did that time. that's important because patients need to have someone that they can ⁓   Tiff (21:06) Yeah.   Yeah.   Nikki Mack (21:25) Refer back to, connect with, knows what's going on, right? However, it's that's usually the gap where if that person is busy or if that person is out, ⁓ we don't have a system in place to be able to support that gap. Now, let's say that your fiancé was calling and said,   I don't understand my portion. I have questions about what I owe. I want to review the insurance coverage. Guys, 100% that needs to go to your person that knows it, right? Because this is efficiency. This is consistency. Give them that answer. But if he's just, I just need to pay my balance. If we can't do that.   Within a few days, right? There's a gap in that system. And that's not to say this office isn't fantastic, right? Because things happen. We get busy. We it's summer, everybody wants their braces on, you know, someone went on on vacation, all those pieces. But that's what systems and SOPs are for, to fill those gaps when something comes up. So when we want to fix that, it's usually we have someone who does that and they're not available.   Tiff (22:12) Yeah.   Yeah.   Nikki Mack (22:32) That to me is I think the most requested. Like we have unscheduled treatment to call on because our person is busy, right? And can't follow up on everything. So it's usually the follow-up piece with the patients when we're talking front office.   Tiff (22:46) I totally agree. I totally agree. Mickey, this was fun. Thank you. I love talking tech and I love I love more than anything, and I think the listeners probably know this, ⁓ efficiencies. If I can create more efficiency in my life, I'm I'm a I'm a happy girl. ⁓ I can't I can't operate outside of efficiencies. My brain just doesn't do it. So it's where my control comes into play. ⁓ but I would say guys, like   Nikki Mack (22:49) Yeah.   Tiff (23:11) Patients want convenience. Patients want to be able to do everything from their phone. We have we have miniature computers that we carry around in our pocket all day long. It's 2026 at the time of recording this. We do not want to like get on the phone and actually talk to people majority of the time. I would say at least 90% of us can say, without a shadow of a doubt, 90% of the time I'd rather handle it on my phone.   than having to handle it over the phone. So I would take a look, you guys, your your like actionable pieces here, your action items are to really take a look and take inventory of like a spot audit. Where do you already have tools? Are they being used and are they working? And where could another tool be beneficial to your patient base and your team? It shouldn't   One should not weigh the other. It should be beneficial for both your patients and your team. It should not cause an inconvenience or a frustration to either space. Patients want easy, teams need systems, the trust is still there. And I would say take inventory, go look at the companies, vet your companies, have your team vet your companies, and decide what the next tool is. Not tools are, the next tool is.   Nikki Mack (24:14) Mm-hmm.   Tiff (24:24) that you're going to implement with success creating that system around it. Nikki, what are your final words? What do you have for them as a parting gift at the end of this podcast?   Nikki Mack (24:33) Parting   gift. I honestly I would say I think Tiff, you nailed it. And just remember, ⁓ like she said, trust still wins, right? Technology can do a lot, it can help us, it can make us more efficient, it can enhance the experience. But you guys are still deprived. The patients come back for you. It's that in-person experience. Don't let this take away from the care and the attention and comfort that you're giving to your patients because you guys are why they come back. You rock.   Let this help you just be even better.   Tiff (25:05) I agree and let them be able to see how much you rock. Because for example, to detour our wrap-up, the ortho practice, my first question when he said he was struggling to pay was wait, the dentist that we trust, he's the one that referred this practice, right? We didn't search them out on our own because now I only trust them because of the referral source, not because of the the ⁓ relationship that has been built. So to that point.   Nikki Mack (25:13) Ha ha ha.   Tiff (25:34) Build the relationships, allow your tools to be able to allow for a better relationship and that humanity to come back into play. I love it. Thank you, Nikki. Listeners, this is what we do. You heard Nikki talk about the practices that she's helped implement these tools. You heard her talk about her consulting. You guys, this is what we do. We focus in on your patient journey. We focus in on the relationships that you're building and we create system and tools side by side with you.   Nikki Mack (25:42) Yeah. Thanks for having me.   Tiff (26:00) That you can implement with your teams, your practices for complete success. And we always have that layer of accountability wrapped in. You guys don't even hear a podcast that doesn't come with actionable items. So just know we're here. We're here to help you solve the gaps. We're here to help you see how you can you guys run a more efficient, efficiently run practice, a happier practice, a   Whatever practice it is that you want, we're here for that. So please reach out. Hello@TheDentalATeam.com. We're always here to spread some sunshine in your lives and give you a little bit more patient journey and five-star patient Hello@TheDentalATeam.com, drop us a five-star review below. Let us know what you're using. People do read those, they look for those tools as well. So let us know what you're using, what's working for you, and we'll catch you next time. Thanks everyone.   Nikki Mack (26:47) Thank  

A huge thanks to this episode's sponsor: Hire Overseas: Exceptional Talent for Less - https://www.hireoverseas.com/value Navattic: Interactive Product Demo Software - https://navattic.com/valueIn this episode, Philip Ruffini, a growth leader and co-founder of Hire Overseas, shares his journey from managing small teams at Rupa Health to scaling a global workforce of US employees and overseas contractors. Philip talks about how he learned to manage people, build processes, and prioritize what works in marketing and growth. He shares how he discovered the power of overseas talent, built cohorts of AI-trained contractors, and created clear expectations and 30-60-90 day plans to help his team succeed. Philip also explains how these lessons shaped the founding of Hire Overseas, helping other companies hire, train, and manage remote talent effectively.Things to listen for:(00:00) Intro(01:29) Thrown into head of growth role(02:34) Scaling Rupa Health with contractors(04:01) First weeks managing teams and agencies(05:19) Defining real ownership and responsibilities(06:19) Prioritizing marketing channels that work(07:51) Building overseas contractor engine efficiently(09:31) Thank you to our sponsors, Hire Overseas and Navattic(12:15) Origin story hiring talent abroad(14:34) Finding and vetting high quality talent(16:48) Onboarding output driven contractors quickly(19:10) Team at peak and leadership challenges(22:33) Turning growth playbook into business(24:18) Why agencies often fail clients(27:51) Sops and setting clear expectations(29:10) Operator to founder leadership shift(30:40) Sponsor break coaching opportunities(31:21) How to start hiring overseas teams(32:37) Future of AI powered contractorsResources:Connect with Philip:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipruffini/Website: https://hireoverseas.com Connect with Andrew:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcapland/ Substack: https://media.deliveringvalue.coHire Andrew as your coach: https://deliveringvalue.co/coaching

You do not need to be technical to build a tech-enabled business. You just need to use the tools. In this episode of The Level Up Podcast, Paul Alex breaks down how non-tech founders can use AI to automate tasks, save time, and scale faster without writing a single line of code. Let's be real… If you are still writing every email from scratch… Doing every admin task manually… Designing every piece of content yourself… And refusing to use AI because you are “not technical”… You are slowing down your own company. In this episode, you'll learn: Why AI is a powerful tool for non-tech founders How automation can save time on emails, SOPs, content, and admin work Why using AI can drastically reduce production costs How smart tools free your team to focus on sales, relationships, and strategy The truth is simple: AI is not just for software engineers. It is for operators. Founders. Creators. Sales teams. And anyone who wants to move faster with fewer bottlenecks. High-level entrepreneurs do not waste hours on tasks that software can support. They use AI to draft faster. Create faster. Organize faster. Automate faster. And free up human energy for the work that actually drives revenue. Because the smartest founders do not do everything the hard way. They upgrade the system. They automate the noise. They focus on the strategy. Adopt the tools. Move faster. And keep leveling up. Your Network is your NETWORTH! Make sure to add me on all SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORMS: Instagram: https://jo.my/paulalex2024Facebook: https://jo.my/fbpaulalex2024YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCGhDAD1JyGGzSQUPD9lc9HQLinkedIn: https://jo.my/inpaulalex2024 Looking for a secondary source of income or want to become an entrepreneur? Check out one of my companies below to see if we can help you: www.CashSwipe.com FREE Copy of my book “Blue to Digital Gold - The New American Dream”www.officialPaulAlex.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This episode of Hustle Inspires Hustle features Alex Quin and Michelle as they break down the rapidly evolving world of artificial intelligence and how tools like ChatGPT and Claude are transforming the way businesses operate, create, and scale. The conversation dives deep into real-world applications of AI inside marketing agencies, content creation workflows, and the rise of AI agents reshaping entire industries.Together, they explore how different AI platforms serve different purposes—Claude's strength in reasoning, systems, and data analysis versus ChatGPT's power in creativity, image generation, and fast execution. They also unpack how entrepreneurs are now building automated workflows, SOPs, and even full “digital workers” using AI tools connected to CRMs, spreadsheets, and marketing systems.The episode also expands into the future of search, advertising, and SEO as AI shifts user behavior away from traditional Google searches toward conversational AI interfaces. Finally, they discuss the broader impact on jobs, emphasizing the urgency for professionals to adapt or risk falling behind in an AI-driven economy.Episode Outline:[00:00] Intro, life update, returning from hiatus, audience engagement [02:30] Why AI has become the main focus in their business and agency work [05:45] ChatGPT vs Claude overview and how each tool is being used today [09:10] Claude for reasoning, dashboards, data analysis, and system building [12:40] ChatGPT for creative work, images, and fast content generation [15:20] Building AI workflows across tools (hybrid systems and stacking platforms) [18:30] AI agents, automation, and replacing manual business processes [21:10] Real examples: CRMs, spreadsheets, emails, and marketing automation [23:00] The future of ads: intent-based search vs interest-based targeting [25:10] SEO shifts, AI search, and the decline of traditional Google traffic [26:30] The impact of AI on jobs, industries, and creative professionals [27:19] Final thoughts, urgency to adapt, and closing messageWisdom Nuggets:There Is No “Best AI Tool”: Success with AI comes from using the right tool for the right job—not choosing one platform over another. Claude and ChatGPT work best together, not in isolation.Systems Beat One-Off Prompts : The real advantage comes from building workflows, SOPs, and automated systems that run repeatedly—not just asking one-off questions.AI Agents Are the Next Workforce Layer : Businesses are quickly moving toward digital workers that handle emails, calls, data analysis, and operations with minimal human intervention.Search Behavior Is Changing Forever: Users are shifting from Google to AI chat interfaces, which will reshape SEO, PPC, and how businesses generate traffic and leads.Adaptation Is No Longer Optional: Industries are being reshaped in real time. The ability to learn and apply AI tools will determine who scales and who gets left behind.Power Quotes“Claude is better for reasoning. ChatGPT is better for creativity. The real power is using both together.” — Alex Quin“AI doesn't replace thinking—it replaces the repetition that slows you down.” — MichelleConnect with Michelle:Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/michellechia)Linkedin: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-chia1/)Connect With the Podcast Host Alex Quin:Instagram: (https://www.instagram.com/alexquin)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/mralexquin)LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mralexquin)Website: (https://alexquin.com)TikTok: (https://www.tiktok.com/@mralexquin)Books Mentioned:How to Market Your Restaurant Online — Alex QuinThe Digital Marketing Dictionary — Alex QuinPolo's Day at the Park — Alex Quin & Michelle's children's bookOur CommunityInstagram: (https://www.instagram.com/hustleinspireshustle)Twitter: (https://twitter.com/HustleInspires)LinkedIn: (https://www.linkedin.com/company/hustle-inspires-hustle)Website: (https://hustleinspireshustle.com)*This page may contain affiliate links or sponsored content. When you click on these links or engage with the sponsored content and make a purchase or take some other action, we may receive a commission or compensation at no additional cost to you. We only promote products or services that we genuinely believe will add value to our readers & listeners.*See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Send us Fan MailSteven Pressfield, bestselling author of Gates of Fire, the War of Art, A Man at Arms, and The Arcadian, joins Joe to explore writing, resistance, and the soldier's long search for peace.This episode examines the story behind The Arcadian, Pressfield's latest novel featuring Telamon, a warrior cursed to live lifetime after lifetime as a soldier. Steve shares how the seed for the book began with a quote from Empedocles that he carried with him for more than forty years before finally discovering the story it was meant to become.Steve and Joe discuss why the idea of a cursed soldier resonates so deeply, especially with those who have served. Telamon's journey is not just a story about war, exile, or violence. It is about the burden many people carry, the search for redemption, and the hope that we can become something more than the roles we have played for so long.Steve also reflects on losing his home in the Palisades fire while working on the book and how writing became a refuge during that difficult season. What could have become another form of resistance instead became proof of the very ideas he has spent decades teaching: that the work can save us, steady us, and call us back to ourselves.Joe and Steve also discuss:The connection between soldiers, exile, redemption, and the search for peaceWhy “life is warfare and a journey far from home”Why animals and children often carry the divine in storiesWhy great stories often begin with the question “What if?”What it means to start over, kill the ego, and become an apprentice againWhy Steve believes nearly every great story is, in some way, a redemption storyThis episode is for anyone who has carried a burden longer than they expected, walked away from a life that once defined them, or wondered whether peace is possible after years of fighting. It is also for writers, leaders, veterans, and readers who believe that stories can help us make sense of exile, suffering, hope, and the long road home.Watch the full interview on YouTubeA special thanks to this week's sponsors!Dunedain Systems is a veteran-founded defense technology company building Warmind, an AI platform that accelerates military planning, operations, and document generation. Warmind connects to your unit's data and learns how your warfighting function operates, delivering outputs tailored to your SOPs and operational context rather than generic AI responses. Whether your team is building OPORDs, running intel workflows, or generating CONOPs, Warmind handles the heavy lift so your staff can focus on decisions, not paperwork. Built by combat veterans who lived the problem firsthand, Warmind is already in use across SOCOM and the broader DoD. The beta is free for anyone with a .mil or .edu email at dunedainsystems.com.Veteran-founded Adyton. Step into the next generation of equipment management with Log-E by Adyton. Whether you are doing monthly inventories or preparing for deployment, Log-E is your pocket property book, giving real-time visibility into equipment status and mission readiness. Learn more about how Log-E can revolutionize your property tracking process here!Meet ROGER Bank—a modern, digital bank built for military members, by military members. With early payday, no fees, high-yield accounts, and real support, it's banking that gets you. Funds are FDIC insured through Citizens Bank of Edmond, so you can bank with confidence and peace of mind. 

→ Grab Your Ticket to The Travel Business Intensive! Early bird pricing of $295 available through July 14!You asked for SOP templates. You downloaded the SOP templates. You have not touched the SOP templates. Sound familiar? In this Hot Take, Jennifer and Robin are here to give you the loving kick in the pants you need, because your business cannot scale, hire, or sell if every process lives inside your head. You'll learn how to use AI and a dictation tool to crank out three SOPs in a 30-minute gap between meetings, why you should document before you automate, and how to keep your SOPs current without a total overhaul every year. Bottom line: your client experience, your financial health, and your ability to grow all depend on having documented processes. The good news? It has never been easier to build them!Resources Mentioned In This Episode:ClickUp Business Hub TemplateJoin the Niche CommunityFOLLOW ALONG ON INSTAGRAM @TiqueHQ

What Every Time-Starved Entrepreneur Needs to Know About Using ChatGPT to Win at Social Media Marketing in 2026   Master ChatGPT for online entrepreneurship with conversion-focused tactics. In this episode, we reveal the exact AI entrepreneur prompt systems for social media captions, split-testing ad copy, and auditing conversion leaks—strategies busy parents are using to scale side gigs without agency fees. Learn the caption engineering framework, A/B testing methodology, and audit checklists that turn engagement into income in 2026. https://DarkHorseEntrepreneur.com Tracy explains how to use ChatGPT (including GPT-4o and 5o) and other AI models to scale social media marketing by rapidly generating and testing multiple caption hooks to boost first-hour engagement velocity, then extending AI use to full ad campaign architecture across platforms with native-format variations, systematic low-budget testing, and scaling winners while killing losers. It emphasizes that AI is a force multiplier, not a replacement, and warns that poor offers and weak funnels can't be fixed by AI—AI amplifies both good and bad strategy. A parallel "conversion audit" process is recommended, using tools like GA4 data analyzed in ChatGPT to identify high-quality traffic, CPA, and ROAS. The script argues the real competitive advantage is strategy and audience insight, and outlines monetization via productized services, SOPs, automation tools, and digital products, while cautioning against burnout from scaling too many systems instead of focusing on clarity and sustainable execution.   00:00 AI Social Media Promise 01:35 Algorithm Brutal Truth 02:13 Caption Engineering System 04:19 AI Powered Ad Testing 06:45 Avoid Scaling Mediocrity 08:09 Conversion Audit Loop 09:51 Strategy Beats AI 10:48 Clone Systems to Scale 12:23 Clarity Over More Systems 13:54 Final Leverage Takeaway  

What if your practice could run smoother, convert more patients, and scale without burning out your team?This episode dives into the playbook of Kristen Davis, a strategic operator who's worn nearly every hat in a dental office, from ground-level execution to high-level growth planning.Kristen shares the real story behind launching and scaling a de novo dental practice during the chaos of COVID-19, turning disruption into a blueprint for resilience and expansion. She introduces SOPHIE, a dynamic AI-supported platform that transforms dental operations by bridging the gap between software and staff, ensuring consistency, accountability, and real-time visibility. Kristen walks us through practical tactics that boost retention and reduce stress, from patient-first scripting and high-conversion follow-up cycles to purposeful morning huddles. Plus, she reveals hiring secrets, onboarding frameworks, and the essential tech tools practices overlook, all rooted in her firsthand trials and wins.What You'll Learn in This Episode:How a dental startup thrived during a pandemic by systemizing operationsThe exact follow-up schedule proven to improve unscheduled treatment conversionsPatient-phone call frameworks that nail the “why choose us” question fastChairside scripts and cues that increase case acceptance (without pressure)The daily and weekly team habits that cut chaos and elevate accountabilityWhy separating treatment and financial coordination roles drives smoother workflowsStructured onboarding that creates confident, culture-matched new hiresHow to use technology like SOPHIE and Patient Prism to maximize team performanceProven strategies for holding vendors accountable and protecting your dataWays to infuse your practice's mission and values into everything your team doesHit play and discover actionable strategies you can use to build a practice that grows, adapts, and never skips a beat, no matter what challenges come your way.‍Sponsors:‍Oryx: All-In-One Cloud-Based Dental Software Created by Dentists for Dentists. Patient engagement, clinical, and practice management software that helps your dental practice grow without compromise. Click or copy and paste the link here for a special offer! https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/oryx/Click here for a special offer!‍Net32: Founded by a dentist, for dentists. Net32 is the leading online marketplace for dental supplies, helping dental and medical professionals save on high-quality products for over 25 years. Start saving today at: https://www.net32.com/dentalmarketer‍Click here for a special offer!Business Name: SOPHIECheck out Kristen's Media:SOFIE: https://www.hisophie.ai/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kldavsherm/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-davis-sherman-331831a8/‍Mentions & Links:Tools:Patient PrismBIT USASunbitCareCreditCherry Financing‍Host: Michael AriasJoin my newsletter: https://thedentalmarketer.lpages.co/newsletter/‍Join this podcast's Facebook Group: The Dental Marketer Society‍Love the Podcast? Follow on Your Favorite App! https://lnkfi.re/TDMPod

In January, 95% of the code Sean Barry's team wrote was written by hand. Six months later, that number is 2%. Sean isn't predicting what AI will do to your industry — he's living it, building it, and losing sleep over it.In this conversation with Dwayne Kerrigan, Sean Barry - the Chief Product Officer of LeanScaper - shares what the AI transformation actually looks like from the inside: the grief, the identity crisis, the compounding flywheel effect, and the window that's closing faster than most people realize.In this episode:Why most small to mid-sized businesses can't implement AI on their own — and what LeanScaper is doing about it for the landscape industryThe compounding flywheel effect: why companies that embrace AI now may be uncatchable by competitors who wait six monthsThe emotional journey Sean's team went through when AI fundamentally changed their jobs overnight — and what's on the other sideWhy the most powerful AI asset in your business might already be sitting in a drawer somewhereThe one thing Sean tells every business owner who doesn't know where to startWhy the resistance to AI — in boardrooms, on campuses, and inside teams — all traces back to the same root causeStart building your identity with Dwayne's Identity Framework created for the LeanScaper Conference: https://www.dwaynekerrigan.com/identity-framework/Episode Highlights:00:00 - AI Pace Shift00:27 - Podcast Intro00:59 - Meet Sean Barry03:33 - LeanScaper Explained04:33 - DIY AI Struggle08:28 - Jobs Fear vs Abundance14:46- Human Connection Premium17:08 - Mindset, Education, and Retraining25:57 - How to Start Using AI30:36 - SOPs as Superpower36:00 - Uncatchable Flywheel43:43 - Grief and Identity Shift53:26 - What Changed Since January58:14 - New Team Workflow Rebuilt01:00:51 - Wrap Up and Stay Tuned for Next EpisodeResources mentioned:LeanScaper — AI operating system for the landscape industryLMN (Landscape Management Network) — landscape industry business management softwareMark Bradley — Chairman and founder of LeanScaperLana — LeanScaper's AI agentChatGPT — referenced as starting point for AI adoptionClaude / Anthropic — cited as the inflection point in AI coding capability that changed everything in late 2024Claude Code — referenced as coding toolCodex — referenced as AI coding resourceGitHub Copilot / Microsoft Copilot — referenced in context of AI coding historyFigma — referenced as design tool being replaced by AI-assisted codingOpenClaw agents — referenced by Dwayne as agents running in his own setupQuotes:“ Your choice is not whether or not this happens, your choice is whether it happens with you or to you, and that's the choice you get to make.” - Sean Barry“ In January, ninety-five, ninety-eight percent of the code we would write was written by hand, and today, two percent. Yeah, that's six months.” - Sean Barry“ Take next week off and stop doing your day job, and then spend forty hours learning AI and diving into ChatGPT, Codex, Claude. Figure out what you want. Dive in, there's tons of education. You just ask AI how to use it. Then the next week, that time will pay back. You will have moved yourself so far in that forty hours that you will get that time back the next week.” - Sean Barry"You'll be uncatchable by people who don't." - Sean Barry“ I think 95% of small to mid-sized businesses don't have the time nor resources to go accomplish that. So I think we're at the exciting point in what we're trying to do is, is take all that power and then do all the heavy lifting for landscape contractors so they can just turn it on and use it and not need to go figure out how to put it all together.” - Sean BarryAbout Sean Barry:Sean Barry is the Chief Product Officer at LeanScaper, an AI operating system and business community built specifically for the landscape and snow contracting industry. He brings nearly two decades of product and digital leadership experience, including almost four years at LMN (Landscape Management Network) — the landscape industry's leading business management platform — where he rose from SVP of Product to Chief Product Officer. Before entering the green industry, Sean spent 14 years at Laughlin Constable, a Milwaukee-based agency, where he built his career from Lead Engineer to SVP of Digital, Account and Innovation. He is currently at the forefront of applying AI to real-world business operations for contractors.Connect with Sean Barry: https://leanscaper.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/sbarry/Connect with Dwayne KerriganFacebookInstagramLinked InWebsiteDisclaimer: The views, information, or opinions expressed by guests during The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast are solely those of the individuals involved and do not necessarily represent those of Dwayne Kerrigan and his affiliates. Dwayne Kerrigan or The Dwayne Kerrigan Podcast is not responsible for and does not verify the accuracy of any of the information contained in the podcast series. The primary purpose of this podcast is to educate and inform. Listeners are advised to consult with a qualified professional or specialist before making any decisions based on the content of this podcast.

NEW Bulletproof All-in AI Summit - 9 August, 2026 Why are humans still doing work that computers can do better? In this episode, Ian sits down with Dr. Peter Boulden and Dr. Craig Spodak to tackle what that question really means for dentistry, AI adoption, and the rapidly changing role of the front desk. The three explore how artificial intelligence is already transforming administrative work, patient communication, scheduling, documentation, and workflow management, and why the biggest mistake a dentist can make is assuming this technology won't reach their practice. Peter makes the case that even dentists who opt out will still feel the impact, because AI agents are already starting to make calls, book appointments, and gather information on behalf of patients. The flood of inbound is coming whether you are ready or not. That is why he frames the real choice as offense or defense: use AI to move your practice forward, or scramble to keep up without it. But the conversation isn't about replacing people. It's about removing repetitive work so team members can focus on the human experiences that matter most. Instead of spending hours on insurance verification, phone calls, and administrative tasks, team members can spend more time creating exceptional patient experiences, building relationships, and strengthening practice culture. The front desk is the highest-turnover, least-trained, most-overwhelmed position in most practices, and it is exactly where AI delivers the fastest relief. Done right, the receptionist does not lose the job. They get promoted out of the parts of it nobody ever wanted. DESCRIPTION The Bulletproof Dental Podcast Episode: 446 HOSTS: Dr. Peter Boulden, Dr. Craig Spodak, and Ian de Jongh In this episode, Peter Boulden, Craig Spodak, and Ian de Jongh explore how artificial intelligence is reshaping dental practices and what practice owners should be doing right now to stay ahead. The conversation covers AI receptionists, agentic AI, workflow automation, SOPs, practice management systems, and the opportunities available to independent dentists willing to embrace emerging technology. They also discuss why AI should be viewed as a tool for amplifying human connection rather than replacing it. Whether you're excited about AI, skeptical of it, or simply unsure where to begin, this episode offers practical insights into how technology is changing the future of dentistry. TAKEAWAYS AI is advancing faster than most dentists realize AI receptionists are becoming increasingly viable Agentic AI can perform tasks rather than simply answer questions SOPs are the foundation of successful AI implementation Practices that embrace AI early may gain significant advantages AI should enhance human connection, not replace it Administrative tasks are among the easiest workflows to automate Front desk teams can focus more on patient experience as repetitive tasks are removed Independent practices can leverage AI to compete at scale Technology is becoming a powerful equalizer in dentistry Resistance to AI will not stop its adoption The future belongs to practices that combine innovation with exceptional patient care. TIME STAMPS 00:00:00 - Construction Meeting Frustrations and AI Resistance 00:01:42 - Why Company Policies Can't Stop Progress 00:03:33 - The Challenge of Large Construction Projects 00:04:46 - Once You See a Better Way, You Can't Go Back 00:05:42 - Self-Driving Cars and the Future of Work 00:08:08 - Using AI to Manage Complex Projects 00:09:21 - The AI Workshop at Bulletproof Summit 00:11:42 - Introducing AI Receptionists in Dentistry 00:13:24 - Why AI Front Desk Solutions Are Growing Fast 00:15:15 - AI Receptionists vs Human Receptionists 00:18:08 - Google, AI Agents, and Autonomous Scheduling 00:20:02 - The Coming Wave of AI-to-AI Communication 00:22:29 - Playing Defense vs Playing Offense With AI 00:23:42 - Why People Are Afraid of AI 00:25:31 - Will AI Replace Front Desk Team Members? 00:28:31 - Let Computers Do Computer Work 00:30:27 - Insurance Verification and Administrative Burden 00:32:19 - Why SOPs Matter More Than AI Tools 00:33:30 - Low-Hanging Fruit for AI in Dental Practices 00:36:13 - How Practices Are Already Using AI Today 00:38:35 - Choosing Technology Based on the Future 00:41:43 - The Great Equalizer for Independent Dentists 00:43:20 - Alliance of Independent Dentists and Industry Change 00:45:18 - Why Independent Practices Can Move Faster 00:47:32 - Lessons From the Bulletproof Mastermind 00:48:11 - Finding Your First AI Breakthrough 00:50:12 - Practical Ways to Start Using AI Today 00:52:33 - Why One AI Win Changes Everything 00:55:57 - The Emotional Cost of Front Desk Work 00:56:27 - Bulletproof Summit AI Workshop Preview 00:58:25 - Final Thoughts on AI Adoption   REFERENCES Bulletproof Summit Alliance of Independent Dentists Claude AI  

In this encore episode, Kemi challenges the hustle culture belief that you have to work yourself to exhaustion to succeed. Instead of a typical productivity lecture, we are looking at how to use strategic procrastination to your advantage.  Procrastination gets a bad reputation, but it can actually protect your creativity and reduce unnecessary stress. This is not an excuse to put everything off. It is about knowing exactly when to wait so you can break the cycle of last-minute panic without dropping your high standards.  Tune in to learn how to handle talk slides, abstract submissions, and SOPs without sacrificing your sanity or your standards. Applications for the July 2026 Get That Grant® cohort have been extended through Tuesday, June 23 at 11:59 PM PST. If you've been considering GTG, this is your final opportunity to apply for the July 2026 cohort. Participants also receive immediate access to Writing for Excellence: Persuasive Scientific Writing, Kemi's newest training for writing clear, persuasive, and competitive grant proposals and manuscripts—giving you a repeatable process you can use throughout your career.  Submit your application here. Not quite ready? Join the waitlist for the January 2027 cohort: www.kemidoll.com/gtgwaitlist If you'd like to learn more foundational career navigation concepts for women of color in academic medicine and public health, sign up for our KD Coaching Foundations Series: www.kemidoll.com/foundations. Text Dr. Kemi directly.

Most entrepreneurs don't have a revenue problem—they have a delegation problem. In this episode,, entrepreneur and business coach Justin Lund explains why so many founders become prisoners in the businesses they worked so hard to build. The same hustle that helped you get started can become the very thing preventing you from reaching the next level. Justin shares the concept of the "Delegation Priority Pyramid," a practical framework designed to help business owners reclaim their time, build systems, and create a company that doesn't depend entirely on them. If you've ever felt overwhelmed, burned out, unable to take a vacation, or convinced that "nobody can do it as well as I can," this conversation is for you.

What if the real reason your business cannot scale is not your people, your market, or your effort, but that everything still depends on you? In this episode of Sharkpreneur, Seth Greene interviews Hector Alvarado, Co-Founder of Optimize Business Systems, who explains how small and mid-sized businesses can reduce founder bottlenecks by building stronger systems, clarifying roles, improving leadership, and ensuring consistent execution. He also explains why business owners must shift from day-to-day firefighting to strategic leadership if they want to build companies that can grow without being in constant emergency mode. Key Takeaways:→ Owner-dependent businesses struggle to scale because too many decisions flow back to the founder. → A business is harder to sell when its value depends entirely on the owner's day-to-day involvement.→ Second-line leaders are essential to building a scalable company. → Business owners need regular time away from the weeds to see the bigger strategic picture. → Strong systems are more than SOPs; they encompass leadership, execution, accountability, and clarity. Hector Alvarado is an entrepreneur, operations executive, and business consultant with 27+ years of experience transforming companies across the logistics, transportation, construction, and home-service industries. His expertise isn't theoretical—it's built on decades of diagnosing operational chaos, fixing broken systems, and leading organizations through high-stakes growth. One of Hector's most notable accomplishments was the complete turnaround of Willy's Trucking. As VP of Operations, he led the company from a $1.3M annual loss in 2018 to a profitable sale exceeding $25M in 2021—a feat that earned him industry-wide respect. Today, he serves as VP of Operations for the largest NGL and Butane hauler in Western Canada, overseeing large fleets, operational excellence, and strategic expansion. Hector is also a Lean Black Belt, Continuous Improvement Master Trainer, and EOS implementor, bringing a rare blend of tactical expertise and strategic leadership. Beyond his corporate roles, he runs three successful businesses under Family Legacy Industries and manages a growing real estate investment portfolio, providing firsthand insight into entrepreneurship and wealth-building. Connect With Hector:Website: https://optimizebusinesssystems.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/optimize_business_systems/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Optimize-Business-Systems/61574764979478/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/optimize-business-systems/

Many investors focus on one thing: getting more units. But what if growing your portfolio is actually creating more problems? In this episode, Gino Barbaro breaks down one of the most important distinctions every real estate investor and entrepreneur needs to understand: the difference between growing and scaling. Growth often means increasing revenue by adding more resources, more expenses, and more complexity. Scaling, on the other hand, is about creating systems, improving efficiency, increasing profitability, and building a business that can expand without demanding more of your time. If you're chasing bigger numbers without knowing your profit margins, occupancy rates, delinquency metrics, or operational KPIs, this conversation is a must-watch. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The difference between growing and scaling a real estate business ✅ Why "Revenue is vanity, profit margin is sanity, and cash is king" ✅ How to measure Profit Per Unit (PPU) ✅ The systems every multifamily investor should implement ✅ Why operations determine long-term success ✅ The importance of SOPs, KPIs, and customer retention ✅ When to pause acquisitions and focus on infrastructure ✅ How Jake & Gino scaled from zero to over 1,900 units Whether you're managing your first rental property or operating a large multifamily portfolio, these principles can help you build a stronger, more profitable business. Key Takeaway: Don't grow faster than your systems can support. Build the foundation first. Strengthen your operations, improve cash flow, create leverage, and then pursue expansion with confidence. You want to know more about Multifamily? Go to https://wheelbarrowprofits.com/ We're here to help create real estate entrepreneurs... About Jake & Gino: Jake & Gino are multifamily investors, operators, and owners who have created a vertically integrated real estate company. They control over $350M in assets under management. Connect with Jake & Gino here --> https://jakeandgino.com. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.