Podcasts about value pricing

Craig Hewitt, founder of Castos, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss the current state and potential future of podcasting as a medium for building trust with your audience.AI SummaryIn this episode of Ditching Hourly, Jonathan Stark speaks with Craig Hewitt, founder of Castos, about the evolving landscape of podcasting. They discuss the shifting definitions and formats of podcasts, the importance of different content strategies, including private and hybrid podcasting, and the impact of new technologies like AI. Craig also shares insights on leveraging platforms such as YouTube and podcasting for trust-building and discovery, what makes podcasts unique in the AI era, and tips for solo business owners looking to optimize their content. The conversation is packed with actionable advice on how to effectively use podcasting to build authority and nurture audiences.Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (01:14) - The Evolution of Podcasting (02:24) - Private and Hybrid Podcasting Explained (03:27) - The Role of Video in Podcasting (05:21) - Discovery and Monetization Strategies (06:44) - Business Models for Podcasters (09:34) - Content Strategy and Audience Engagement (16:14) - The Future of Podcasting and Platforms (29:09) - Content Strategy and Funnel Optimization (30:36) - The Power of Long-Form Audio (31:46) - Podcasting for Authority Building (34:24) - YouTube as a Discovery Platform (34:48) - Shorts, Segments, and Long-Form Content (51:18) - The Role of AI in Content Creation (55:44) - Private and Hybrid Podcasting (59:12) - Conclusion and Future of Podcasting Craig's LinksCastos » https://castos.com/Craig's Website » https://craighewitt.com/Craig's YouTube » https://www.youtube.com/@thecraighewittCraig's LinkedIn » https://www.linkedin.com/in/craig-hewitt-78386a66/ The next time someone asks you for your hourly rate, I want you to stop what you're doing and head on over to valuepricingbootcamp.com to sign up for my free value pricing email course.Hope to see you there!

Jason Lengstorf, founder of Code TV, joined me on Ditching Hourly to share how he is successfully navigating the transformation of the video production business. Jason's Links: https://jason.energy/https://codetv.dev/AI Summary:In this episode of Ditching Hourly, Jonathan Stark is joined by Jason Lengstorf, founder of Code TV, to explore the current landscape of the video production industry, especially within the tech sector. Jason shares insights into his career journey from being a web engineer to running a successful video production business for tech companies. The discussion delves into industry transitions, the significance of genuine community engagement, the crucial role of video in marketing campaigns, and strategies for delivering measurable ROI. Jason also offers practical advice for video production professionals on pricing their services, specializing in niches, and maintaining consistency to build a strong client base.Chapters:(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:50) - Jason Langsdorf's Background (01:29) - The State of the Video Production Industry (03:34) - Strategic Video Production (10:20) - Top of Funnel Growth Strategies (17:08) - Jason's Approach to Video Production (24:29) - Specialization and Niche Market (29:26) - Measuring Campaign Effectiveness (30:19) - The Importance of Patience and Follow-Through (30:55) - Qualitative Metrics and Social Listening (31:18) - The Value of Organic Mentions (31:56) - Case Study: Microsoft's Image Transformation (34:36) - Challenges in Sales Processes (40:16) - The Power of Consistency in Content Creation (43:41) - Outsourcing Video Production (45:31) - Finding Your Niche and Adding Value (53:57) - The Journey to Success (56:22) - Conclusion and Resources ----Have you ever thought about starting a podcast but gave up because it seemed too hard?I've got good news for you:If you can run a Zoom call, you can host a podcast.In my 5-Day Podcast Challenge, you will learn exactly what to do (and, more importantly, NOT do) to get your podcast off the ground in as little as five days.Stop thinking and start doing. You could be inviting guests to your new show in less than two weeks.ENROLL IN 5DPC NOW »I hope to see (and hear) you there!

Nicht alle wollen gleich ihr ganzes Unternehmen umbauen, um Value Pricing auszuprobieren. Zum Glück müssen sie das nicht, denn für jeden der 6 nötigen Schritte gibt es eine Abkürzung. Wie das funktioniert, schauen wir uns heute an einem Beispiel an.

The Invisible Value of What Never Happens, with Benny Carreon, Velocity Technology Group (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 130) How do you express the value of something that does not occur? That question is one area of focus in this episode of The Price and Value Journey, as host John Ray welcomes Benny Carreon, founder […]

Author/creator of Sales for Nice People, Martin Stellar, joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about sticking to your guns in a sales meeting and how to build the confidence to do so. Martin's Links:https://martinstellar.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinstellar/https://salesfornicepeople.com/academy ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Der Weg von Stundensätzen zu Value Pricing ist voller Stolperfallen und Schlaglöchern. Heute gehen wir die typischen Fehler durch - und wie man sie vermeidet.

Yuval Yeret, founder of Yeret Agility and OG Agile expert, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss the current state of Agile as a platform, how it has evolved over the years, and what practitioners should consider when pivoting their careers as the platform matures.About YuvalYuval Yeret is a Product/Scaling/Agility Coach focused on helping product/tech leaders scale their organizations without slowing down, improving outcomes by leveraging flow, agility, and product orientation. (while avoiding the dogma and process BS of Agile Theater). Yuval is a globally recognized expert on scaling w/ agility, a SAFe Fellow, a Professional Scrum Trainer, and a co-author of the Kanban Guide for Scrum Teams. These days Yuval is focused on helping organizations evolve from Feature Factories to Empowered Product Organizations, as well as helping deeper tech organizations develop a pragmatic agility strategy. Yuval shares his insights on scaling w/ agility at https://yuvalyeret.com/scaling-with-agility-newsletter/Chapters(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:17) - Yuval's Background and Journey into Agile (01:35) - Early Days of Agile (03:56) - Transition to Consulting and Coaching (07:21) - Agile's Evolution and Current State (09:46) - Challenges and Criticisms of Agile (17:30) - Future of Agile and Role Adaptation (22:18) - Advice for Agile Practitioners (30:22) - Reflecting on Agile Leadership (31:24) - Anecdote: Transition from FileMaker to Web Development (34:57) - The Future of Agile and Product Operating Models (39:20) - Adapting Skills for New Opportunities (41:48) - Navigating Organizational Change (44:47) - Strategies for Career Pivoting (48:01) - The Role of Scrum Masters in Modern Organizations (52:00) - Consulting and Value Proposition (57:55) - Closing Thoughts and Resources Notable Quotes"What happened over the years is... agile has become mainstream for most of corporate America, technology organizations and product companies. And this created the reality where the people that are, the organizations that are currently adopting agile are the late adopters.""[Late adopters] are slapping names like Scrum Master and Sprint and User Story and Daily Scrum... on the way that they've been doing things already. And it's like lipstick on a pig. It's not really creating any impact other than a bad name for Agile and a bad name for people in these roles.""The biggest issue with Agile... is the over-reliance on specific roles in organizations.""We will have a significantly smaller number of people that dedicate their career to something like agile, whatever it's called. You will need to specialize. You will need to start to think like consultants need to start to think and build your content solar system."Yuval's Links and Other ResourcesYuval's article on "The Future of Agile Roles and Agility"Yuval's private podcast on navigating the landscape of Agile theater, feature factories, and product operating models"Crossing the Chasm" by Geoffrey Moore (book on technology adoption)Netflix culture book (featuring the "Netflix question")The career mini-course that Jonathan mentioned: Unblock Your Career by Shachar Meir ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Viele haben eine Idee, wie Value Pricing funktioniert, aber nicht alle haben eine klare Vorstellung davon, wie das für ihr Unternehmen funktionieren könnte. Zeit, dass wir einen Fahrplan entwickeln.

Oft treffen wir Entscheidungen und fragen uns nachher, warum wir das nicht schon viel früher gemacht haben. Zurück wollen wir auf keinen Fall. So ist es meist mit Value Pricing

Is AI about to transform how you price your services? In this episode of the Value Pricing Podcast, I will explain why value pricing is more important than ever—and how AI can help you build powerful pricing systems.Discover the three foundations of value pricing, how to price based on perceived value, and the one skill that will make or break your pricing success.Plus, I reveal how to use tools like ChatGPT to design better packages, communicate value more effectively, and even role-play pricing conversations.AI is not the future—it's now. Are you ready to lead the change?

Viele glauben, Value Pricing ist: Meine Lösung bringt Ihnen X Euro, ich bekomme davon 20%. Das ist die plakativste Variante, aber in der Praxis eher selten. Zeit darüber zu reden, wie Value Pricing in den meisten Fällen funktioniert.

The Value of Operational Efficiency, with Dennis Jackson, WorX Solutions (The Price and Value Journey, Episode 124) In this episode of The Price and Value Journey, host John Ray interviews Dennis Jackson, founder of WorX Solutions. Dennis shares his experience transitioning from the corporate world to starting his own business, focused on helping small and […]

Unlock the secrets to profitable pricing with value pricing. Mark Wickersham, founder of Value Pricing Academy, joins Michelle Weinstein to dive into how value pricing can transform your accounting practice. Tired of undercharging and overworking? Mark reveals how to implement tiered pricing, master the art of communicating your value, and finally build a more profitable and fulfilling career. Take the first step toward transforming your pricing strategy—start applying value pricing today!

Ex-java developer and CoffeeSprout founder Barry van Someren joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about the surprising alignment between “Ditcherville ethos” and the government of the Netherlands.LINKS MENTIONEDBarry's websiteBarry's LinkedInCalifornia Law AB 5AI SUMMARYIn this episode of Ditching Hourly, Jonathan Stark speaks with Barry Van Someren about his transition from hourly work to value-based services, the implications of new tax laws in the Netherlands for independent contractors, and the importance of having multiple clients. They discuss how these changes affect client relationships and the necessity of shifting to results-based contracts. Barry shares insights on navigating the complexities of government regulations and the benefits of diversifying client portfolios to ensure business resilience.SOUND BITES“I wanted to transition into something that was more predictable.”“It's just refreshing to see that kind of advice from the IRS.”“I kind of wanted to make myself less vulnerable to this law.”“The IRS and various countries are giving you that encouragement.”“If you stay at one place too long, you become stagnant.”“Hourly billing is bad.”TAKEAWAYSTransitioning from hourly work to value-based services can lead to more predictable income.New tax laws classify independent contractors more strictly, impacting their work.It's essential to define clear results in contracts rather than relying on hourly billing.Having multiple clients reduces vulnerability to market changes and legal issues.Government regulations can align with good business practices, encouraging consultants to diversify their client base.Freelancers should be aware of the risks associated with being classified as employees under new laws.Building a strong network is crucial for finding clients and maintaining a steady workflow.Consultants should focus on delivering results rather than just completing tasks.The importance of compliance with tax laws cannot be overstated for independent contractors.Hourly billing is often seen as a less favorable model for sustainable business growth. ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

The handsome and talented Louis Grenier joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about the strategy behind writing, publishing, and launching his new book, Stand The F*ck Out. Links:Stand The F*ck OutBonuses for Ditching Hourly ListenersAI Summary:In this conversation, Jonathan Stark interviews Louis Grenier about his journey in marketing, the insights from his new book, and the strategies behind its launch. Louis discusses the importance of standing out in a crowded market, the principles of effective marketing, and the challenges he faced while writing and publishing his book. He shares his unique approach to launching the book, including innovative marketing strategies and the significance of personal branding. In this conversation, Louis Grenier discusses his unique approach to branding and product design, particularly in the context of his book launch. He shares insights on working with Lulu, the importance of prioritizing tasks during the launch, and the lessons learned from mistakes made along the way. The value of beta readers and the iterative feedback process in writing are emphasized, along with strategies for promoting and selling his book effectively. ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

The author of “Going 1099: How To Become Solo Federal Sub-Contractor”, Dale Davidson, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss the journey of becoming a solo federal subcontractor.(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:17) - Dale Davidson's Background (00:49) - Navigating Hourly Billing in Government Contracts (01:39) - Transitioning to 1099 Subcontracting (04:01) - Importance of Security Clearance (05:51) - Client Relationships and Consulting (07:06) - Understanding Government Contracting (16:01) - Becoming a Prime Contractor (33:52) - Hiring Employees and Scaling Up (35:41) - Recruiting and Retaining Talent (36:24) - Scaling Up: Employees and Income (37:17) - The Soloist's Dilemma (38:53) - Challenges of Growing a Business (41:17) - The Admin Burden (48:02) - The Hourly Trap (49:39) - Government Contracting Insights (53:12) - Personal Stories and Advice (58:32) - Finding Your Niche and Passion (01:09:15) - Promoting the Book and Final Thoughts DALE'S LINKSDale's BookDale's LinkedInAI SUMMARYIn this conversation, Jonathan Stark and Dale Davidson discuss the journey of becoming a solo federal subcontractor, focusing on the challenges and opportunities within government contracting. They explore the nuances of hourly billing, the importance of security clearance, and the significance of client relationships. Dale shares insights on transitioning from employee to 1099 contractor, the role of subcontracting, and the complexities of government contracts. The discussion also touches on the mental shift required when moving from a corporate environment to self-employment, the importance of setting boundaries, and the value of understanding market demand.TAKEAWAYSHourly billing is the norm in government subcontracting.Security clearance can significantly increase your value in government contracting.Building strong client relationships is crucial for success as a contractor.Transitioning from employee to 1099 contractor offers more freedom and control.Subcontracting is a common practice in government work and can provide opportunities.Understanding the different types of government contracts is essential for contractors.Fixed price contracts are rare but can be negotiated successfully.Finding opportunities in government contracts requires diligence and networking. ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Advisory CFO, daily emailer, and podcast host Lauren Pearl joined me on Ditching Hourly to unpack the nuances of the pricing framework she uses with her start-up and small business clients. CHAPTERS(00:00) - DH358 Lauren Pearl - The Daily CFO Pricing Framework (00:09) - Lauren Pearl's Background and Role (02:08) - Client Types and Fit (04:18) - The Origin of the Pricing Framework (07:23) - Step-by-Step Pricing Framework (08:01) - Setting the Floor Price (20:47) - Setting the Ceiling Price (38:50) - Understanding Customer Decision-Making (40:15) - The Power of Post-Purchase Feedback (41:27) - Exploring Customer Value Perception (43:51) - Competitive Analysis and Market Expectations (47:40) - Pricing Strategies and Customer Commitment (01:09:55) - Experimentation and Continuous Improvement (01:14:18) - Where to Find Lauren Online LAUREN'S LINKSLauren's LinkedInThe Daily CFO NewsletterThe Growth-Minded CFO Podcast ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Andrew Croasdale, a former police officer turned consultant, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss his transition from policing to consulting.(00:00) - Introduction and Guest Welcome (00:18) - Andrew's Background in Policing (01:05) - Transition to Consulting (05:11) - First Steps in Business (06:06) - First Client Experience (09:37) - Challenges of Small Business Owners (17:38) - Defining Governance and Leadership (26:25) - Diagnostic Approach in Consulting (29:10) - Cross-Referencing in Police Work (29:32) - Challenges in Communicating Strategic Objectives (29:48) - Overcoming Ego for Improvement (30:09) - Psychological Differences in Large vs. Small Organizations (31:27) - Resistance to Change in Large Companies (35:11) - The Importance of Psychological Safety (36:15) - Choosing the Right Company Size to Work With (37:11) - Balancing Impact and Satisfaction (41:04) - Implementing Values in Solopreneurship (43:58) - Defining Mission and Values (51:22) - Final Thoughts and Contact Information Andrew's Links:- LinkedIn » https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-croasdale/- Website » https://octopusleadership.com/AI SUMMARYIn this conversation, Jonathan Stark interviews Andrew Croasdale, a former police officer turned consultant, about his transition from policing to the business world. Andrew shares insights on how his background in counter-terrorism policing informs his consulting work, particularly in enhancing governance and operational excellence for businesses. He discusses the importance of creating high-performing environments, the role of governance versus leadership, and the need for clear communication and structure within organizations. Andrew emphasizes that good governance can lead to improved team performance and customer service, ultimately benefiting the business as a whole. Andrew discusses the critical role of transparency in leadership and the importance of clear communication of strategic goals within organizations. He emphasizes the need to overcome ego and fear in order to foster a culture of improvement and psychological safety. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced when working with larger organizations compared to smaller businesses, highlighting the impact of organizational structure on decision-making. Additionally, Andrew shares insights on how solopreneurs can define their values and create alignment with their clients to drive business success.TAKEAWAYS- Andrew transitioned from policing to consulting to seek a change- His experience in policing helps him develop high-performing teams- Customer service quality significantly impacts people's lives- Starting a business involves aligning passion, skills, and market value- His first client came from a casual conversation in a showroom- Small business owners often lack leadership training and support- Good governance is crucial for effective team performance- Clear communication and structure are essential for business success- High-performing environments require a holistic approach to governance- Leadership and governance are interconnected but distinct concepts- Transparency is essential for effective leadership- Assessing strategic goals requires open communication- Ego can hinder organizational change and improvement- Working with large organizations often involves navigating politics- Smaller businesses may allow for quicker decision-making and implementation- Creating governance structures is important for solopreneurs- Defining clear values helps align business practices with client expectations- Continuous improvement should be a focus for all businesses- Psychological safety encourages team members to admit mistakes- Finding the right client size can enhance the impact of consulting work ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

As a lawyer, it's easy to fall into the trap of equating more hours with more revenue. But as Jonathan Stark points out, this mindset often leads to a vicious cycle of overwork and burnout, without necessarily translating into increased profitability or client satisfaction. The key to breaking free from this cycle lies in streamlining your processes and focusing on delivering value, rather than simply billing time. In this episode, I share an episode I recorded with Jonathan Stark on his podcast Ditching Hourly exploring how improving your delivery workflows can make the switch to value pricing a no-brainer. From implementing systems and checklists to leveraging technology and outsourcing, we explore the many ways you can optimize your workflows to deliver better results in less time.Get full show notes, transcript, and more information here: https://www.agileattorney.com/48

Jackie Meyer is the Founder and President of TaxPlanIQ, a software platform that equips tax advisors with tools to streamline tax planning and maximize client savings. A CPA with extensive experience, Jackie previously owned an award-winning CPA firm and developed the ROI Method of Value Pricing to align services with client value. She is also an educator and speaker focused on improving financial literacy and efficiency for professionals and small businesses. In this episode… Are you paying more taxes than you should? Many business owners assume their CPA or tax preparer has every deduction and strategy covered, but the truth is tax planning often goes beyond the basics. What strategies can keep more money in your pocket while staying compliant with the law? According to Jackie Meyer, a pioneering tax strategist and educator, true tax planning is about going beyond simple projections to uncover actionable strategies that minimize liabilities. She highlights the importance of asking the right questions when engaging a CPA, such as whether they offer advanced tax strategies or attend ongoing education. By focusing on proactive, ROI-driven planning, individuals and businesses can save tens of thousands of dollars annually. In this episode of the Financial Clarity podcast, host Hannah Smolinski hosts Jackie Meyer, Founder and President of TaxPlanIQ, to discuss actionable tax planning strategies that save money and increase value. They cover the critical differences between tax preparation and planning, how to identify when tax planning is worth the investment, and practical tips for finding the right tax professional. Jackie also shares insights into value pricing and how it transforms client relationships and CPA practices.

“I think being ready to change your processes or adapt to processes, finding new efficiencies—that is a constant growth. Even if you're happy with the level that you're at, the revenue level that you're at, and you're not looking to grow or expand, things will still change and evolve with your processes and with technology. So I think it's really important to be open and accepting of that.” -Kimme Lafayette Kimme Lafayette, owner of Beyond Bookkeeping Business Services, reveals her journey from accounting student to business owner, sharing the lessons she learned about overcoming challenges like pricing and client relationships. With a focus on value pricing, mentorship, and community, she offers actionable advice to help bookkeepers grow and succeed in their own businesses. During this interview, you'll learn: Tips for adapting & thriving in a changing industry How value pricing can elevate your bookkeeping business The secrets to fostering strong client relationships To learn more about Kimme, click here. Connect with her on LinkedIn. Time Stamp: 02:21 - Journey to Bookkeeping 06:13 - Starting a Business by Accident 10:41 - Overcoming Initial Barriers 14:44 - Transitioning to Value Pricing 19:23 - Facing Fear & Taking Action 21:48 - Advice for New Bookkeepers 25:34 - The Importance of Community 29:31 - Adaptability in Business 32:35 - Conclusion & Future Directions

In this episode, we sit down with the incredible Jackie Meyer, a powerhouse in the accounting world with a journey that's nothing short of inspiring. Jackie takes us through her path to becoming a CPA and shares the ups and downs of her career and how she took the bold step of starting her own firm. We dive deep into the strategies that helped grow her business including her game-changing approach to value pricing—one of Jackie's key tools for success.But that's not all! We also explore how Jackie's innovation led her to create TaxPlan IQ, a revolutionary software designed to streamline tax planning. Jackie opens up about balancing a thriving career and family life, proving that it's possible to juggle both with the right mindset and support. As we delve into leadership and personal growth, Jackie highlights the importance of coaching in achieving her goals and shares insights on how it's been a crucial factor in her journey. If you're looking for a blend of professional insights and personal inspiration, this episode has it all. Don't miss out on Jackie's invaluable tips for accountants and entrepreneurs alike!What you'll hear in this episode:[1:00] Introduction of Dr. Jackie Meyer[2:20] Jackie's Journey to CPA[3:40] Starting and Growing a Firm[5:45] The Power of Value Pricing[7:50] Creating TaxPlan IQ[11:10] Balancing Family and Career[18:20] The Importance of Coaching[23:50] Leadership and Personal GrowthConnect with Jackie https://www.linkedin.com/in/jackiemeyercpaCheck out her website: https://www.jackiemeyercpa.com/Connect with Kelly https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyrohrs/Connect with Bilal https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmehanna/

Author, founder, and CEO Barry LaBov joined me on Ditching Hourly to geek out about niching down - while walking me through the five-step process he describes in his book The Power of Differentiation. Barry's Bio:Barry LaBov is the founder and CEO of LABOV Marketing Communications and Training. He is a two-time Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year recipient and an inductee into the Entrepreneur of the Year Hall of Fame. He is also a Better Business Bureau Torch Awards for Ethics recipient. Under his leadership, LABOV Marketing Communications and Training has received the Indiana Growth 100 Award six times, was named Small Business of the Year and recognized as one of the Best Places to Work in Indiana. Additionally, LABOV's client work has been honored with nearly 100 national and regional awards.Barry's links:The Power of DifferentiationBarry's biz websiteBarry's personal siteBarry's LinkedIn The next time someone asks you for your hourly rate, I want you to stop what you're doing and head on over to valuepricingbootcamp.com to sign up for my free value pricing email course.Hope to see you there!

Guest Russ Waddell joined me on Ditching Hourly to explain how he successfully went out on his own for the first time after more than a decade as a full-time employee. Guest Links:https://www.russwaddell.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/russell-waddell/ ----Have you ever thought about starting a podcast but gave up because it seemed too hard?I've got good news for you:If you can run a Zoom call, you can host a podcast.In my 5-Day Podcast Challenge, you will learn exactly what to do (and, more importantly, NOT do) to get your podcast off the ground in as little as five days.Stop thinking and start doing. You could be inviting guests to your new show in less than two weeks.ENROLL IN 5DPC NOW »I hope to see (and hear) you there!

Zach Stevens, co-founder of Conversion Factory, came back on Ditching Hourly to give an update about how things are going with his “all-you-can-eat” subscription-based service business after two years in business.Zach's LinksConversion FactoryZach's LinkedInZach's TwitterOther LinksMicroConfTiny SeedFreePikVisual ElectricSomewhere ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Author of Ditch The Billable Hour!, Shaun Jardine, joined me on Ditching Hourly to explain how he transitioned his 240-person law firm off the billable hour.  Shaun's LinksShaun's BookShaun's WebsiteShaun's LinkedInShaun's TwitterThe book Shaun mentioned: Our Iceberg Is Melting by John Kotter ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

The author of No Bullsh*t Strategy and founder of Basic Arts, Alex M H Smith, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss what business strategy is, why it matters, and how to get started.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background03:00 Defining Strategy and the Importance of Unique Value07:53 Trade-Offs: Creating Space for Unique Value13:36 Strategy vs. Being Better than the Competition19:26 Applying Strategy at Different Levels33:32 Creating Unique Value: Double Down on Your Strengths36:22 The Role of Strategy in Motivating Action49:22 Using LinkedIn as a Marketing Tool for Service-Based Businesses56:18 Sharing Your Unique Point of View through Writing and Speaking01:00:26 The Importance of Marketing and Innovation in BusinessAlex's Links:Alex on LinkedInBasic Arts WebsiteNo Bullsh*t Strategy BookAI-Generated Notes: In this conversation, Jonathan and Alex discuss the concept of strategy and how it applies to businesses. They explore the importance of delivering unique value and finding a white space in the market. Alex emphasizes that strategy is not about being better than the competition but about offering something different and making trade-offs. They also touch on the relationship between strategy and positioning and how strategy can be applied at different levels, from businesses to individual employees. In this conversation, Jonathan and Alex discuss the importance of creating unique value in business. They explore how companies like Southwest Airlines and Domino's Pizza have successfully differentiated themselves by removing certain aspects of their industry and focusing on their strengths. They emphasize the need to identify what sets you apart and double down on those strengths. They also discuss the role of strategy, marketing, and innovation in creating unique value. Alex shares his insights on strategy and how it is half about deciding what to do and half about motivating people to do it. They also touch on the importance of LinkedIn as a marketing tool for solopreneurs and service-based businesses.TakeawaysStrategy is about delivering unique value and finding a white space in the market.Being better than the competition is not a strategy; it's important to offer something different.Trade-offs are necessary to create space for unique value.Strategy can be applied at different levels, from businesses to individual employees. To create unique value, identify what sets you apart and double down on your strengths.Strategy is half about deciding what to do and half about motivating people to do it.Sound Bites"Strategy is the unique value that your business puts out there into the world.""Better equals the same. Better simply means we do the same as everyone else, but a little bit more.""Strategy is when you draw a circle around everything and you have a set blueprint that tells you what to do with the product, what to do with the distribution, what to do with the marketing.""They pulled away every single thing that is necessary to serve business customers adequately, which no one would ever do because business customers are the most lucrative type of customer.""Look around at your competitors and pick the things that you're not that good at anyway and just stop doing them. Double down on the things that are already your superpower.""Strategy is half about deciding what you're going to do and half about motivating people to do it." ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Eileen Rochford and Rob Johnson share their stories of escaping the corporate world and starting their own businesses. Eileen, the CEO of the Harbinger Group, left her job at a PR agency to start her own agency, driven by a desire for a different way of working and a lack of fulfillment in the corporate structure. Rob, a former television professional, transitioned into consulting after his contract in the media industry was not renewed. Both Eileen and Rob emphasize the importance of building strong relationships with clients and prioritizing trust and partnership. They also discuss the challenges of pricing their services and the need to adapt and pivot in response to changing circumstances. The conversation explores the concept of value pricing and the benefits of establishing long-term relationships with clients. The guests discuss their approach to pricing, which involves creating a program for clients with a clearly outlined strategy and detailed tactics. They also emphasize the importance of trust and flexibility in client relationships. The conversation touches on the topic of building a solo business and the advantages of hiring specialists on a project basis. The guests share their insights on networking, highlighting the value of deep, meaningful connections over quantity. They stress the importance of authenticity and a long-term mindset in networking.Guest Links:Eileen Rochford: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eileenrochford/Website: https://theharbingergroup.com/Rob Johnson:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-johnson-communications-advisor/Website: https://www.rj47llc.com/ TakeawaysLeaving the corporate world to start your own business requires careful planning and consideration.Building strong relationships with clients and prioritizing trust is crucial for long-term success.Pricing services can be challenging, but it's important to understand the value you provide and adjust pricing as you gain experience.Being adaptable and willing to pivot is essential in the ever-changing business landscape. Value pricing involves creating a program with a clearly outlined strategy and detailed tactics for clients.Establishing trust and flexibility in client relationships is crucial for success.Building a solo business allows for more control over time and work-life balance.Networking should focus on building deep, meaningful connections rather than quantity.Authenticity and a long-term mindset are key in networking.Sound Bites"Why do we all have to physically be in the same place?""I'm gonna resign today... I called my husband first, which was probably a good idea.""Every time Eileen and I would see each other, it was like, oh my gosh, is every day like this?""We have value pricing in place, which to us means we've constructed a program for you consisting of X number of campaigns.""I just think it's so much easier... I mean, nobody wants to see that.""It just makes so much more sense to build relationships in the business comes with it."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Multiple Guests00:41 Escaping the Corporate World: Eileen's Story04:04 Transitioning from Television to Consulting: Rob's Journey07:08 Building Strong Client Relationships and Trust09:35 Navigating Pricing Challenges13:07 The Importance of Adaptability and Pivoting26:10 Value Pricing and Constructing a Program28:44 Building a Solo Business and Hiring Specialists32:38 The Importance of Trust and Flexibility in Client Relationships39:36 Networking: Quality Over Quantity44:37 Authenticity

Want to make your clients happier and increase your revenue? In this episode, we reveal why just one fixed price could be holding you back. What if offering choices could change everything? Plus, we'll show you how to use ChatGPT to improve your pricing strategy. Ready to boost your business? Get practical tips you can start using today!

In this powerful episode, we dive into a transformative approach to client relationships that will change the way you do business, going beyond the surface to tackle some of the most pressing challenges entrepreneurs face today — especially those who want to maintain high standards, protect their boundaries, and ensure they're working with clients who truly value what they bring to the table.We explore the concept of making your clients audition for the privilege of working with you, much like contestants on American Idol. This isn't about playing hard to get; it's about setting clear boundaries, commanding confidence, and ensuring that the clients you take on are aligned with your values, vision, and the level of service you provide.In this episode, I discuss:Auditioning Your Clients: Just like in American Idol, not everyone makes it to the next round. I'll teach you how to audition your clients, guiding you on principles to help them either self-eliminate or clearly identify themselves as strong potential candidates.Creating Demand Generation: Discover how to generate strong demand for your services, making clients eager to work with you. When done right, this approach flips the script, positioning you as the sought-after expert who clients are vying to work with.Combating Scope Creep: Learn how to protect your time and resources by setting firm boundaries from the start, ensuring that your projects stay within scope and that you're compensated fairly for any additional work.Setting Boundaries and Expectations as an Empath: As someone who genuinely cares about others (and I'm sure you do in your business), it can be challenging to enforce boundaries. I'll share strategies to balance empathy with the necessity of maintaining your professional integrity.Commanding Confidence in the Discovery Phase: The initial discovery phase is crucial for establishing authority and setting the tone for the entire client relationship. I'll guide you on how to exude confidence and control during this critical stage.Mastering Value-Based Pricing: Discover how to shift the focus from cost to value, ensuring that clients understand and appreciate the worth of your services. I'll share techniques for implementing value-based pricing that aligns with the results you deliver, helping you command higher fees while maintaining client satisfaction.Maintaining High-Profit Margins: Learn strategies to keep your profit margins high without compromising on the quality of your work. We'll discuss how to structure your offerings and negotiations to ensure you're paid what you deserve, allowing you to focus on delivering excellence.Removing Objections with Confidence: Objections can derail a conversation and undermine the perceived value of your services. I'll guide you on addressing and removing objections preemptively, creating an environment where clients see you as the essential bridge to achieving their goals. By removing the air out of the room, you'll keep the focus on the vision and the transformative impact of working with you.Eliminating Budget Concerns: Learn how to remove budget from the equation by shifting the conversation to value. I'll show you how to guide clients to see the worth of your services, allowing you to command the rates you deserve while keeping your profit margins high.By the end of this episode, you'll have a clear roadmap for elevating your business relationships, protecting your time and energy, and ensuring that the clients you work with are a perfect fit for your services. If you're tired of chasing clients, compromising on rates, or dealing with constant scope creep, this episode is for you. Beyond The Episode Gems:• Learn More Starting Your Own Business With Amazon's Delivery Service Program• Start Creating Exceptional Sites & Business Solutions Using Wix Studios • Grow Your Business Faster Using HubSpot's CRM Platform• Use The Same Recording Platform I Use For My Podcast, Try Riverside.fm For Free• Buy Troy's Book, Strategize Up That Is Referenced In This Episode: StrategizeUpBook.com• Discover All Podcasts On The HubSpot Podcast Network#####Support The Podcast & Connect With Troy: • Rate & Review iDigress: iDigress.fm/Reviews•  Follow Troy's LinkedIn @FindTroy• Get Strategy Solutions & Services: GrowWithTroy.com•  Follow Troy's Instagram @FindTroy•  Subscribe to Troy's YouTube Channel

LinkedIn Ghostwriter Pranav Kale joined me on Ditching Hourly to do a reverse interview about what I've learned during my recent experiment of posting daily on LinkedIn. Pranav's Links: Website: https://www.pranavkale.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pranavkale120/ ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Matt Kerbis, also known as the Subscription Attorney, joined me on Ditching Hourly to share his novel approach to ditching hourly billing in the legal space with a subscription model.Matt's bio from his website: ”My name is Mathew Kerbis, I'm The Subscription Attorney, and I believe subscriptions can help bridge the access to justice gap and incentivize attorneys to modernize and scale their practice like never before.”Matt's links:Website: https://www.lawsubscribed.com/aboutLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerbisverse/Substack: https://substack.com/@lawsubscribedThe Law For Kids Podcast:https://www.lawforkidspodcast.com/AI-Generated Info:SummaryIn this conversation, Jonathan Stark interviews Matt Kerbis, also known as the Subscription Attorney, about his novel approach to ditching hourly billing in the legal space with a subscription model. Matt explains how he offers affordable and accessible legal services through different subscription tiers based on the client's needs. He discusses the pricing structure, the scope of services provided, and the use of automation tools to streamline his practice. Matt also addresses the challenges and benefits of implementing a subscription model in the legal industry. Mathew Kerbis discusses his unique subscription-based law firm model and the client experience. He explains that while his model is one of a kind, there are other attorneys using the subscription model in different ways. Mathew highlights the importance of educating clients about the subscription model and the client portal. He also discusses the challenges of marketing a new business model and the slow process of building traction. Mathew emphasizes the value of problem avoidance and the benefits of being a generalist in the legal space. He advises those interested in experimenting with subscription models to start narrow and go broad.TakeawaysMatt Kerbis offers affordable and accessible legal services through a subscription model.The pricing structure includes different tiers based on the client's needs, with options for individuals, freelancers, and business owners.Matt uses automation tools and no-code solutions to streamline his practice and deliver services efficiently.Churn is a key consideration in the subscription model, and Matt focuses on delighting his clients to reduce churn and increase client satisfaction.While a pure subscription model may not work for all legal services, a hybrid approach combining subscriptions and alternative fee-based pricing can be effective. Mathew Kerbis has a unique subscription-based law firm model that is one of a kind.Educating clients about the subscription model and the client portal is crucial for their understanding and comfort.Marketing a new business model can be challenging, especially in the legal space.Building traction and gaining clients takes time and persistence.Problem avoidance is a valuable selling point, and being a generalist can be advantageous in the legal industry.For those interested in experimenting with subscription models, starting narrow and going broad is a recommended approach.Sound Bites"I'm the subscription attorney because I was sick and tired of billing time as an attorney."—MK"My whole goal was accessibility while also still trying to be profitable."—MK"People don't like talking to their lawyer. They have better things to do in their life."—MK"There are probably hundreds of attorneys using the subscription model in some way."—MK"I make it really easy to schedule a ‘no legal advice', 15-minute introductory call with me."—MK ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

In this episode, I am joined by Loren Fogelman, a renowned business coach at Business Success Solution, recognized by HubSpot as one of the world's top 22 business coaches. Loren shares her expertise in transitioning accounting firms from the traditional hourly billing model to a value-based pricing strategy. She outlines her “Raise Your Rates” formula, emphasizing the importance of quality clients, effective communication, service packaging, value pricing, and consultation mastery. Tune in to transform your accounting firm with the Value Pricing Model and the “Raise Your Rates” formula! Guest Information: Loren Fogelman - Price & Profit Coach | Keynote Speaker LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenfogelman/  Business Success Solution: https://www.businesssuccesssolution.com/   Contact Andrew Lassise (Host):  Email: alassise@rushtechsupport.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-lassise/ Keep up with the show: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rush-tech-support --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/rush-tech-support/support

Grab the two books discussed this week:Implementing Value Pricing https://www.amazon.com/Implementing-Value-Pricing-Business-Professional/dp/0470584610Time's Up! https://www.amazon.com/Times-Up-Subscription-Business-Professional/dp/1119893526And check out Jonathan Stark's work https://jonathanstark.com/

Here's that risk & sensitivity guide I mentioned at the top of the show https://docs.google.com/spreadsheets/d/1Ofw37gWY6evmE8mvfpVCBz2k_5l6FJ_aMqdFh8j43Yo/edit?usp=sharingGrab the two books discussed this week:Implementing Value Pricing https://www.amazon.com/Implementing-Value-Pricing-Business-Professional/dp/0470584610Time's Up! https://www.amazon.com/Times-Up-Subscription-Business-Professional/dp/1119893526And check out Jonathan Stark's work https://jonathanstark.com/

Ben Zettler, owner and founder of Zettler Digital, joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss pricing tactics for agencies.Ben's Links:Zettler DigitalBen's LinkedInAI-Generated Stuff:SUMMARYBen Zettler, owner and founder of Zettler Digital, joins Jonathan Stark to discuss value pricing for agencies. Ben shares his background in sports and how he transitioned into building his agency. They discuss the initial conversations with potential clients, the importance of understanding their needs and goals, and how to convert those conversations into proposals. Ben also talks about the value of offering free work, conducting audits, and providing strategy sessions to build trust with clients. They explore the use of data to quantify the potential impact of their services and the challenges of pricing for smaller businesses. Ben Zettler discusses the ideal clients for his agency and the different options he offers them. He emphasizes the importance of working with decision-makers and the challenges of communicating value in proposals. Ben also talks about the shift in his business from project-oriented work to retained services. He shares his experience with client churn and the need to constantly find new opportunities. Ben provides insights into pricing and the difficulties of structuring fees for ongoing services. He concludes by highlighting the value of LinkedIn for marketing and networking.TAKEAWAYSUnderstanding the client's needs and goals is crucial in creating a proposal for value pricing.Offering free work, such as audits and strategy sessions, can help build trust with potential clients.Quantifying the potential impact of services using data can help justify pricing.Smaller businesses may be more hesitant to share revenue information, but it is important to understand the potential impact of services.The market has shifted towards longer decision timelines and more evaluation of service providers. Working with decision-makers is ideal in most situations, regardless of the size of the business.Communicating value in proposals can be challenging, especially when clients compare prices to other services.Shifting from project-oriented work to retained services can provide stability and consistent revenue.Client churn is inevitable, so it's important to constantly find new opportunities and maintain a marketing engine.Pricing ongoing services can be difficult, and it's important to consider the value provided and the client's budget.LinkedIn is a valuable platform for marketing and networking in the services industry.CHAPTERS00:00 Introduction and Background08:14 Offering Free Work to Build Trust17:17 Converting Conversations into Proposals23:03 Quantifying the Potential Impact of Services27:26 Challenges of Pricing for Smaller Businesses31:07 The Shifting Market for Service Providers35:44 Shifting to Retained Services41:15 Dealing with Client Churn46:19 Pricing Ongoing Services53:11 Leveraging LinkedIn ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Grab the two books discussed today:Implementing Value Pricing https://www.amazon.com/Implementing-Value-Pricing-Business-Professional/dp/0470584610Time's Up! https://www.amazon.com/Times-Up-Subscription-Business-Professional/dp/1119893526And check out Jonathan Stark's work https://jonathanstark.com/

Show Summary In today's episode of the Grow My Accounting Practice Podcast, we're thrilled to welcome Christian Brim, a Profit First Professional and the distinguished author of "Profit First for Creatives." Christian dedicates his career to helping small business owners achieve financial stability and growth through innovative accounting strategies. His expertise is specially tailored for the creative industries, where financial management often takes a backseat to artistic pursuits. During the episode, Christian dives deep into the concept of Target Market, discussing how creative businesses can identify and effectively serve their ideal customers. He explains the importance of understanding who your customers are, what they truly need, and how to align your business offerings to meet these needs. This segment is crucial for creatives who often struggle to position their services in a competitive market. Furthermore, Christian sheds light on Value Pricing and its significance in maximizing profitability while fostering customer satisfaction. He explores the distinctive dynamics between Builders and Artists within business settings, emphasizing the need for balance between operational efficiency and creative freedom. Lastly, Christian's talk highlights how passion drives success in the creative sector, encouraging listeners to harness their passion to create sustainable and profitable business models. This episode is a must-listen for any creative professional looking to elevate their business acumen and financial prowess.   Website:www.coregroupus.com LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianbrim/ X: @coregroupushttps://twitter.com/coregroupus Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/coregroupus YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCeO0QG2ygjLQz9TvEm_osyQ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/coregroupus/    Corporate Partner:People Processes - https://peopleprocesses.com/

Strategic lawyer and IP expert Erin Austin joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about the intersection of plagiarism, copyright infringement, and generative AI.  Erin's BioA graduate of Harvard Law School, Erin Austin is a strategic lawyer and consultant who uses her 25+ years of practicing law, including roles as COO and general counsel at large and small IP-driven companies, including Warner Brothers, Lionsgate (formerly known as Artisan), MGM, Teaching Strategies, and M3 USA Corp, to help female founders of expertise-based firms build and protect saleable assets so that the business is ready to sell when the founder is ready to exit.Erin's Linkshttps://www.thinkbeyondip.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinaustin/AI-Generated StuffSummaryIn this conversation, Jonathan Stark and Erin Austin discuss the legal and ethical issues surrounding AI. They explore the difference between plagiarism and copyright infringement, the ethical obligations of giving credit, and the copyright protection of AI-generated content. They also touch on the parallel between AI and ghostwriters, the copyright situation with reference materials like encyclopedias, and the challenge of tracing ideas back to their original source. The conversation explores the impact of digital technology on copyright and intellectual property. They discuss the ease of copying and plagiarism in the digital age, the potential for copyright infringement with AI-generated content, and the importance of copyright registration. They also touch on the challenges of compensating creators in the age of AI and the potential for job disruption. Overall, they express optimism about the benefits of AI while acknowledging the need for responsible use.TakeawaysPlagiarism is the ethical breach of stealing someone else's ideas, while copyright infringement is the legal issue of using someone's protected work without permission.AI-generated content is not eligible for copyright protection because it is not created by a human, but there are gradations of AI involvement that can still receive protection.There is little ethical breach in not crediting AI for its output, as AI is not the creator of ideas, and the output is often not considered thought leadership.When using AI-generated content, it is important to ensure that it does not infringe on someone else's copyright and to add a layer of creativity if you want to be eligible for copyright protection.The copyright situation with AI is complex and depends on factors such as the level of AI involvement, the nature of the work, and the agreements in place.Tracing ideas back to their original source can be challenging, and the expression of ideas is what is protected by copyright law, not the ideas themselves. The digital nature of content makes it easier to copy and plagiarize, leading to copyright infringement.Copyright registration is important to protect intellectual property rights and provide evidence of ownership.AI-generated content raises questions about compensating creators and the need for new licensing models.Job disruption is a concern with the rise of AI, but a slow transition may allow for adaptation and new opportunities.Responsible use of AI is crucial to avoid ethical and legal issues.Sound Bites"We do not have ethical obligations to AI. It is not the creator of any ideas.""Are we getting something that would be considered thought leadership? And my experience is that we aren't.""AI-generated content is not eligible for copyright protection because US copyright law requires that the original content be created by a human.""I assume there's some sort of AI, something that can change it for them.""You can kind of be copyrighted out of your own stuff.""When there are billions of data points out there, how are you going to compensate all the people who may have rights in the data sets?"Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background05:01 Ethical Obligations of Giving Credit to AI09:46 Copyright Protection of AI-Generated Content20:50 Copyright Situation with Reference Materials27:50 Challenge of Tracing Ideas Back to Their Source30:50 Introduction and Digital Nature of Content36:10 Copyright Infringement and Remixing in Music39:26 Compensating Creators and Copyright Ownership41:12 Ownership of User-Generated Content on Platforms44:41 AI's Collection of Data and Privacy Concerns48:23 Optimism about AI and Responsible Use51:10 Job Disruption and Transition with AI53:45 Conclusion and Where to Find More Information ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Co-founder and Head of Design at Under, Eden Vidal, joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about productizing design sprints, optimizing your business to suit your personality, and convincing contractors to ditch hourly billing. Eden's Links:https://edenvidal.com/https://weareunder.design/https://www.linkedin.com/in/edenvidal/AI Summary:Eden Vidal, a designer and developer, shares his success with value-based concepts for his design studio. He specializes in brand sprints, a niche methodology for running branding processes for young technology companies. The brand sprint focuses on creating a brand story and developing a visual language, primarily for the homepage of a website. Eden emphasizes the importance of speed and delivering quick and fancy results for startups. The ideal clients for brand sprints are funded startups that already have some branding but feel a mismatch and a need for a quick and premium solution. Eden discusses his approach to managing his time between brand sprints and his own creative projects. He explains that while his wife focuses on optimizing brand sprints, he wants to pursue more and work on his own entrepreneurial ventures. They also discuss the challenges of transitioning from hourly contracts to fixed-price projects and the importance of clear communication and expectations. Eden shares his experience of hiring contractors and the benefits of focusing on delivering results rather than selling time. They also explore the idea of creating a platform that simplifies the process of defining project requirements and finding the right freelancers.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background06:22 The 10-Day Brand Sprint Process08:38 Ideal Clients for Brand Sprints29:16 Balancing Brand Sprints and Personal Creative Projects37:36 Transitioning from Hourly Contracts to Fixed-Price Projects42:18 The Benefits of Delivering Results Instead of Selling Time53:01 Simplifying the Freelancer Hiring Process with a Platform ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Sam Browne, lifestyle entrepreneur and LinkedIn expert with more than 100k followers joined me on Ditching Hourly to share his insights on growing your audience on LinkedIn.Sam's Links:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sam-browne/Gumroad: https://sambrowne.gumroad.com/TakeawaysKnow what you want to be known for on LinkedIn and focus on educational content to build authority.Map out a series of questions to answer in your content and use case studies and testimonials to showcase the value of your work.Engage with comments on your own posts and on other people's posts to build relationships and expand your network.Frequency of posting is flexible, but consistency is key. Replying to comments on LinkedIn posts is important, especially for thoughtful and insightful comments.Engaging with other creators' posts can help expand your reach and build relationships.Using carousels and images in posts can increase visibility and engagement.Avoid including links in posts to maximize reach, but consider using them in comments to drive traffic and build relationships.Engaging with comments can lead to valuable insights and growth opportunities.Sound Bites“Pick the thing that is going to be the most effective for you to monetize.”“Case studies are a great way to show the value of working with you.”“Post with whatever frequency is comfortable for you, ideally no less than once a week.”“I always try and repay people who take the time to comment on my posts.”“You don't need that many people who are showing up and enjoying your posts every time you post to create real momentum on LinkedIn.”“A post can take on a new life like six hours later, eight, eight, 10 hours later.”Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background07:29 Setting Up Your Profile for Success24:00 Showcasing the Value of Your Work28:13 Engaging with Comments and Frequency of Posting30:34 Engaging with Other Creators' Posts for Reach and Relationships36:28 Using Carousels and Images to Increase Visibility45:29 Maximizing Reach by Avoiding Links in Posts48:34 Driving Engagement and Building Relationships through Comments ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Long-time friend-of-the-show Kevin Freidberg joined me on Ditching Hourly to share how he helps freelancers and consultants create effective websites by starting with email conversations. Kevin's Links:https://marketyourselffirst.com/AI-Generated Info:SummaryKevin Friedberg shares his approach to helping freelancers and consultants create effective websites by starting with email conversations. He suggests that instead of focusing on building a website, which can be overwhelming and time-consuming, freelancers should start by writing emails that address the problems their clients are facing. These emails can serve as the foundation for a content solar system and can eventually be repurposed for a website. Kevin also shares his strategy for growing an email list using LinkedIn, where he sends personalized messages to potential subscribers. Overall, his approach emphasizes the importance of one-on-one conversations and providing value to potential clients.Takeaways- Instead of starting with a website, freelancers and consultants can begin by writing emails that address the problems their clients are facing.- These emails can serve as the foundation for a content solar system and can eventually be repurposed for a website.- LinkedIn can be a valuable platform for growing an email list by sending personalized messages to potential subscribers.- The key to success is providing value and engaging in one-on-one conversations with potential clients.Sound Bites"A website, it's not a one-on-one conversation. An email is.""You'll have this conversation with someone, and they go off... they like brain dump about the problems that they solve for their clients. And it's gold. It's great.""I'm obsessed with the very idea of a one-on-one conversation. I just don't understand how else to do it."Chapters00:00 Introduction and Pain Points03:05 Starting with Email Conversations13:10 Using LinkedIn to Grow Your Email List25:31 Transitioning from Emails to Websites28:31 Conclusion and Next Steps ----Have you ever thought about starting a podcast but gave up because it seemed too hard?I've got good news for you:If you can run a Zoom call, you can host a podcast.In my 5-Day Podcast Challenge, you will learn exactly what to do (and, more importantly, NOT do) to get your podcast off the ground in as little as five days.Stop thinking and start doing. You could be inviting guests to your new show in less than two weeks.ENROLL IN 5DPC NOW »I hope to see (and hear) you there!

Sundar Ramanathan is a Banking Product and Pricing Executive with experience in exceeding/meeting growth, capital, liquidity, and profitability objectives through product and pricing levers. In this episode, Sundar emphasizes the importance of moving beyond product commoditization, instead, focusing on creating value through customer experiences, and pricing as the outcome of value creation.   Why you have to check out today's podcast: Discover the fascinating concept of the indifference curve in the context of pricing banking products Learn the art of developing a customer-centric approach to pricing banking products, taking into account essential factors for success Find out how you can implement value pricing strategies, even with commoditized banking products   "On the retail banking side, we hear commoditization a lot. But I think there is an opportunity to go beyond that. I think products disappear and experiences emerge, and experience is what creates value. And value can be priced." - Sundar Ramanathan   Topics Covered: 01:36 - How he found himself in pricing 02:47 - Talking about examples of banking products 04:39 - Is bank's pricing based on value or cost 09:15 - The importance of balancing cost and value and highlighting the indifference curve in pricing  11:55 - Determining the area of indifference in banking pricing 16:06 - How to let borrowers decide in your favor over your competitors 19:37 - Where you create value pricing in banking products 22:06 - Sundar's best pricing advice   Key Takeaways: "The product structure and pricing might be commoditized, but where you create the value and enhance your pricing margin is the experience." - Sundar Ramanathan "You will never know the right pricing unless you are bold enough to make those decisions to test that elasticity and have a plan B." - Sundar Ramanathan "You can only create value by removing the friction as much as possible compared to competition.” - Sundar Ramanathan "You can never win by pricing." - Sundar Ramanathan   Connect with Sundar Ramanathan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sundar   Connect with Mark Stiving: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stiving/ Email: mark@impactpricing.com  

Residential architect Jason Comer joined me on Ditching Hourly to brainstorm how he might migrate from commodity labor to productized leverage with his expertise in home design. Even if you're not an architect, I think you'll find the discussion useful. Jason's Website:https://www.jasoncomerarchitect.com/ ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

WP Engine founder Jason Cohen joined me on Ditching Hourly to talk about why AI is different from other big tech advancements. We also discussed why niching down in a single ideal customer profile will bring you 10x more customers than you expect and how a regular writing practice makes the world a better place (and maybe even builds a legacy). Jason's Links: A Smart BearAI is DifferentSelling to CarolWP EngineTwitter ----Do you have questions about how to improve your business? Things like:Value pricing your work instead of billing for your time?Positioning yourself as the go-to person in your space?Productizing your services so you never have to have another awkward sales call or spend hours writing another custom proposal?Book a one-on-one coaching call with me and get answers to these questions and others in the time it takes to get ready for work in the morning.Best of all, you're covered by my 100% satisfaction guarantee. If at the end of the call, you don't feel like it was worth it, just say the word, and I'll refund your purchase in full.To book your one-on-one coaching call, go to: https://jonathanstark.com/callI hope to see you there!

Corey Quinn joined me on Ditching Hourly to discuss his excellent new book, “Anyone, Not Everyone.” In it, Corey shares insights on deep specialization, selecting a target vertical market, and using gifts like cookies to transform outbound marketing. Corey's Links:Anyone, Not Everyone by Corey QuinnDeep Specialization podcast by Corey QuinnCorey's Website0:00 - Episode intro0:17 - About Corey Quinn and his background 1:30 - Corey's ideal client: agency founders doing $1-5M and looking to specialize3:07 - Benefits of specializing in a vertical market vs. skillset5:17 - How to define a vertical market7:19 - Detecting traction in a potential vertical to specialize in11:33 - Identifying a vertical market that's the right size (2,000-10,000 businesses)15:25 - How specializing enables you to speak your target market's language 17:35 - Creating a "point of view" to differentiate beyond just positioning22:33 - Shifting from founder-led sales through deep specialization 25:09 - Using gifting (like cookies) to transform outbound marketing30:42 - Creating an ongoing gifting campaign, not just a one-time gift32:21 - Reaching your target market in multiple channels beyond just gifting37:46 - The multi-million dollar cookie budget that drove Scorpion's growth41:17 - Adapting this approach for smaller shops through focus and consistency45:01 - Advice for soloists: specialize, do thought leadership, focus on dream clients48:54 - Consistently engaging with a target industry year after year to build trust50:34 - Where to find Corey's book and other free resources

 I was talking with Robert Pierce from my Solo Cleaning School Elite Membership. He's doing amazing. Robert works as a manager at Target and it's been in retail for 25 years. He found me on the Side Hustle Nation Podcast and decided to start a solo cleaning business. Robert understood the value of investing into his new business as he wanted to shortcut years of trying to figure it out himself. He joined the Elite Membership and has subsequently built his solo cleaning business in 6 months to a lean, professional, and profitable company. I was so impressed talking to him as he shared how close he is to achieving his goal and dream of getting out of retail! I was so excited to hear this. We talked about his plan and how many clients and profit he needs to hit this goal. ​The main reason for the call was for strategic coaching. He was taking on 1-time and recurring house cleaning clients, but like me, he wanted to get into commercial more. He had a recent opportunity with a tool & die shop. It was set up like any industrial building. Picture a large steel box with offices in the front and huge warehouse and/or manufacturing space in the back. There's a filthy bathroom in the warehouse area and the office space isn't the most pristine either. These are blue-collar workers, running a useful service to the community. Robert did an estimate for cleaning the offices and warehouse restroom 3 weeks ago with no feedback. He wondered if his prices were too high. Our conversation was excellent and I knew it would help others as well.Robert gave a very realistic price of $200 per visit. He estimated the job would take 4 hours per visit and he wanted to charge an hourly rate of $50. Thus, he gave a flat rate price of $200 per visit. I agreed with Robert on his method and the price was reasonable for the work he was proposing to do. However, I knew it was overpriced! Listen to what Robert shared next. "Ken, I found out that this facility had a janitor that cleaned prior. I figure he was there for 8 hours to clean the place and made $12 per hour. I'm guessing the tool & die shop paid $100 per day to have their facility cleaned. I'm asking $200. I figured it would be fine since I'm an outside contractor and would be fully insured." Robert already knew why they weren't calling him back. This was all the opening I needed. He is absolutely right at his $200 price is completely reasonable. I taught him that in the Elite Membership. But... there are two angles to come in on a price. One is COST PRICING and the other is VALUE PRICING.Read the rest of this article at the Smart Cleaning School website

Geraldine Carter and I swapped interviews about why niching down doesn't lead to boredom.  Geraldine's Links:https://geraldinecarter.comhttps://geraldinecarter.com/newsletterhttps://www.businessstrategyforcpas.com

On this episode Brent is joined by the Co-Founder of The Business Model Company, Caroline Johnson. They discuss why 2024 is the year to change your businesses belief system and move towards a revenue and pricing model that provides more efficient, transparent engagements that utilize repeatable products and provide maximum value.Topics covered in this episode include:The shift towards selling value and the need for changeWhy disruption is a friend, not a foe, and how AI plays a roleThe importance in shifting your belief system in order to changeTop-down program development and productization The hybrid revenue model and its impact on the client engagement model Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim Dietrich and Eric Grubaugh invited me to join them on SuiteScript Stories to talk about the pros and cons of a platform specialization, the paradox of positioning, and, of course, the horrors of hourly billing. Tim and Eric were kind enough to let me post the interview here on Ditching Hourly, but if you're a NetSuite developer, you should check out their podcast at https://suitescriptstories.com/ We discuss:Jonathan's and Tim's shared history in the FileMaker Pro spaceJonathan's AHA moment when he realized hourly billing was killing his businessThe misaligned financial incentives created by hourly billingHow specializing in a narrower target market amplifies your opportunitiesThe various forms of specialization: Vertical, Horizontal, PlatformThe obstacles an agency faces when trying to specialize