Applying Unshackled to Small Teams and Solopreneurs

Joe Fier sits down with Aaron Young, entrepreneur, author, and creator of the "Unshackled Owner" method. Aaron shares game-changing insights on how to design a business that doesn’t own you—one that thrives beyond your own time and energy. From the foundational question every business owner should be asking, to real-life stories (including how Aaron earned nearly $1M while physically unable to run his company), this episode is packed with lessons for entrepreneurs at any stage. Tune in for a mix of mindset shifts, practical frameworks, and inspirational proof that you really can build freedom and scale—on your own terms!

Topics Discussed

• The Core Question: Why it’s crucial to define the real outcome you're building toward in your business, and how most entrepreneurs skip this step.
• Unshackled Owner Concept: What it means to build a business that operates without you, and how it differs from simply being self-employed.
• Building Systems & Teams: The principles behind creating a culture and team that can continue running and even growing your business in your absence.
• Surviving and Thriving During Crisis: Aaron’s powerful personal story of being unexpectedly removed from his business for 14 months, and how systems allowed the company to not just survive, but thrive.
• Big Business Lessons for Any Size Company: Why these principles work for both solopreneurs and large organizations, and how to practically implement them.
• Seven Critical Steps to Unshackling Your Business: Aaron’s proven formula, including developing vision, building the right team, creating intentional culture, and more.
• Investor & Partnership Mindset: Understanding your business as an asset and making short-term sacrifices for long-term growth.
• Creating Longevity Through Loyalty: How intentional leadership and support during tough times (like the 2008 crash) builds lasting, committed teams.
• Living Your Freedom Goal: The importance of defining and designing a business that enables the lifestyle and freedom you really want.

Resources Mentioned

• Unshackled: The 7 Levels of Business Excellence
• Barnes & Noble Link: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/unshackled-aaron-scott-young/1144437542?ean=9781636983530
• Amazon Link: https://www.amazon.com/Unshackled-7-Levels-Business-Excellence/dp/1636983537/
• Aaron Scott Young Website: https://aaronscottyoung.com/
• Laughlin Associates: https://laughlinusa.com

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