

The Rundown with Ramon - Ramon Ray - small business podcast for entrepreneurs
Ramon Ray, ZoneofGenius.com
The Rundown with Ramon by Ramon Ray, small business podcast for entrepreneurs - strategies and tips to start, grow and scale your business. Don't miss out - subscribe to this podcast and ZoneofGenius.com - www.zoneofgenius.com/subscribe
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Oct 15, 2024 • 27min
Can You Hide Your Face on Video and Still Succeed?
# The Rundown with Ramon: Key Insights for Small Business Owners
Welcome to a comprehensive recap of the latest episode of "The Rundown with Ramon." Today, we're diving into several crucial topics that can help you live your best life, start or grow your business, and stay ahead of the latest trends in content creation and entrepreneurship.
## 1. The Rise of Faceless Content Creators
A fascinating trend is emerging in the world of social media: faceless content creators. These innovative individuals are amassing millions of followers without ever showing their faces on camera.
### Key Points:
- Creators like Victoria from New York City have gained millions of followers on TikTok and YouTube with faceless content.
- This approach reduces pressure on appearance and protects privacy.
- James Nord, CEO of Fohr Influencer Marketing Company, notes that faceless content can feel refreshing in a sea of attention-grabbing videos.
However, this trend raises questions about building trust and securing certain types of sponsorships. It's a development worth watching in the ever-evolving landscape of social media.
## 2. Job Seeking Strategies: The #Desperate Debate
The Wall Street Journal reports on a controversial trend among job seekers: using the hashtag #desperate on LinkedIn profiles. This approach has sparked debate among recruiters and career coaches.
### Considerations:
- Some argue it helps candidates get noticed in a crowded job market.
- Others warn it could backfire, signaling potential issues to employers.
- Alternative strategies, such as highlighting unique skills and value propositions, may be more effective.
## 3. Effective Selling Without Annoying Your Customers
Selling is crucial for business growth, but it doesn't have to be pushy or annoying. Here are some tips for a relationship-driven approach:
1. Identify and understand customer needs.
2. Focus on building relationships, not just making sales.
3. Emphasize the solutions you offer rather than the sale itself.
4. Practice human-centered selling.
## 4. The Importance of Children's Education
Martin Karp, an educator, shared valuable insights on improving children's education:
1. Bring back the joy of learning.
2. Individualize learning experiences.
3. Use interest inventories to connect with students.
4. Leverage community resources and partnerships.
5. Focus on mental health and safety in schools.
6. Prepare students with practical skills for the future.
## 5. The Power of Your Signature Story
Mark Schaefer emphasizes the importance of having a signature story as a critical marketing asset. Whether you're a professional speaker, working in a corporation, or doing volunteer work, leveraging your unique story can make a significant impact.
## 6. Entrepreneurial Advice from Daniel Lubetzky
Daniel Lubetzky, founder of Kind Snacks (sold to Mars for $5 billion), offers this advice for aspiring entrepreneurs:
1. Find your purpose without following others.
2. Identify what you do best.
3. Let your purpose fuel you through challenges.
4. Understand your "zone of genius" - what you're passionate about and excel at.
Remember, understanding your mindset, passion, and unique skills is crucial for success in business and life.
We hope these insights from "The Rundown with Ramon" help you in your personal and professional journey. Stay tuned for more valuable content, and don't forget to check out zoneofgenius.com for more resources on thriving in your unique zone of genius!
What are your thoughts on these topics? Have you experienced any of these trends in your own life or business? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Oct 14, 2024 • 28min
Issa Rae Has 2 Power Tips for Entrepreneurs - The Rundown with Ramon
Issa Rae shares her tips for success as a creator and business owner. In today’s episode of the Rundown with Ramon, hosted by small business expert Ramon Ray, publisher of ZoneofGenius.com we also share about the rivalry with two private jet industry owners; insights from Amazon’s thousands of sellers and more.
Issa Rae’s Keys to Success
Acclaimed producer and actress Issa Rae shared some of her strategies for success with Business Insider.
Waking up at 4 AM as her “cheat code” for productivity
Using early mornings for workouts and journaling
Hiring a TV producer as her first and most essential team member
Valuing honesty in collaborations and partnerships
Finding environments outside the home to boost creativity
Ramon discussed the ongoing feud between two private jet charter companies via the WSJ, highlighting an important lesson for business owners:
Focusing on mudslinging and personal attacks can be detrimental
It’s often better to ignore competitors and concentrate on building your own brand and serving customers
A Scotiabank survey revealed that many small business owners lack succession plans:
48% of Canadian small business owners plan to exit their businesses within the next decade
43% of those planning to exit within six years are not well-prepared
Ramon recommends John Warlow’s books on business exit strategies
Key findings from Amazon’s 2023 report on independent sellers:
Over 10,000 independent sellers surpassed $1 million in sales for the first time
U.S.-based sellers exported over 330 million items globally
Independent sellers employed more than 1.8 million people
Over 100,000 sellers used Amazon’s AI listing tools
Rural sellers grew sales by more than 60%
Maria Cho discussed her company’s work in synthetic food technology:
Using biotechnology to create sustainable food sources
Leveraging AI in research and development processes
Emphasizing the importance of company culture and values
Encouraging women to get involved in STEM and AI fields
Time Magazine explored why some people need more sleep than others:
Sleep needs change throughout our lifetimes
Factors like gender, genetics, and sleep disorders can influence sleep requirements
Understanding your personal sleep patterns can lead to better rest and productivity
A CDC study, via USA Today, revealed interesting traits of landline phone owners:
More likely to live in the Northeast
Tend to have healthier lifestyle habits
Less than 25% of Americans still own landlines
Ramon Ray’s Rundown provides a diverse mix of business insights, technology trends, and personal development tips. By staying informed on these topics, entrepreneurs and business leaders can continue to grow and adapt in an ever-changing business landscape.
Lessons from Private Jet Industry RivalryThe Importance of Succession PlanningAmazon’s Small Business Empowerment ReportInsights from Maria Cho, CEO of Triple BarSleep Patterns and Individual NeedsLandline Phone Ownership Trends

Oct 13, 2024 • 24min
Reframe Your Selling Mindset to Succeed in Sales
As a small business owner, you know that sales and marketing are crucial for your success. But how do you navigate these areas effectively? In a recent interview on "The Rundown with Ramon," sales expert Bethanie Noami shared valuable insights, with Ramon Ray, small business expert and publisher of ZoneofGenius.com, that can help you elevate your business.
Let's dive into some key takeaways:
Reframe Your Mindset on Selling
Bethanie emphasizes that selling isn't about being pushy or manipulative. Instead, it's about serving and helping others. "Sales is your sacred vehicle to get your gift to the world," she explains. By shifting your perspective, you can approach sales with confidence and authenticity.
Focus on Where Your Buyers Are
While it's tempting to be active on every social media platform, Bethanie advises concentrating your efforts where your buyers are. For B2B businesses, LinkedIn is often the most effective platform. "99% of our buyers are there, but only 1% of people show up," Bethany notes. This presents a significant opportunity for those who leverage the platform effectively.
Create Value-Driven Content
Your marketing efforts should support your sales process. Instead of posting just to check it off your list, create content that addresses common client questions and objections. Share your expertise and add value to your audience's journey, whether they buy from you or not.
Build Trust Through Marketing
The goal of your marketing efforts should be to establish trust, authority, and credibility. Bethanie explains, "If we're not using marketing to build trust, sales are going to be tough." Use your marketing to showcase your expertise and the transformations you've helped clients achieve.
Nurture Leads Throughout the Funnel
Remember that only 1-3% of your audience is ready to buy at any given time. Your marketing efforts should nurture the other 97-99%, guiding them through the buyer's journey until they're ready to make a purchase.
Develop Your Sales Skills
Selling might feel uncomfortable at first, but like any skill, it improves with practice. "No one is born a natural salesperson," Bethany reassures. Give yourself grace as you develop this crucial skill, and remember that it will serve you in all areas of life.
Work on Your Confidence
Confidence plays a significant role in sales success. Bethany points out that many business owners struggle with confidence when asking for money. This often stems from limiting beliefs about money and value. Recognize that building confidence is an ongoing process, especially as you raise your prices or target larger clients.
Don't miss out any ZoneofGenius.com content to help your business grow - www.ZoneofGenius.com/subscribe (free)
Embrace the Mindset Work
Lastly, Bethanie emphasizes the importance of continual mindset work. Our beliefs about money and success can significantly impact our ability to sell effectively. "We can shape that and we can change that, but you got to do the work," she advises.
By implementing these insights from Bethanie Noami, you can enhance your sales and marketing efforts, build stronger connections with your audience, and ultimately grow your small business. Remember, selling is about serving, and with practice and the right mindset, you can excel in this crucial area of your business.
https://youtu.be/DUbIijEuOgs

Oct 11, 2024 • 45min
How a Green Berret Is Leading Disaster Rescue and Recovery in Ashville North Carolina
The stories, the heroes, the actions, the volunteers that turn out during disasters are compelling. You'd think it was a movie, but sadly it's not. It's real life. Lives lost, houses gone, money lost, lives changed forever. Disasters affect local communities around the world, around the United Stations all the time. Today I want to put a spotlight on the hurricane disaster and relief and recovery efforts in Ashville, North Carolina and surrounding communities - led by my friend Adam Smith of Savage Freedoms.
See more details here - www.ZoneofGenius.com/https://zoneofgenius.com/ashville-recovery/
Donate here - https://www.gofundme.com/f/support-ashevilles-helicopter-rescue-efforts

Oct 8, 2024 • 12min
A Finance Expert Says We Need to Redefine Prosperity
Redefining Prosperity with Ruchi Pinniger: A Fresh Perspective on Success
In this episode, we dive into the concept of redefining prosperity with Ruchi Pinniger, founder and CEO of Watch Her Prosper. Ruchi challenges traditional notions of success, presenting a holistic approach that goes beyond financial metrics.
Key points discussed:
1. The three pillars of prosperity: wellbeing, spirituality, and relationships
2. The RIR method: Recognize, Interrupt, and Reframe negative thoughts
3. Transforming your relationship with money by examining childhood experiences
4. Practical tips for shifting from a scarcity mindset to one of abundance
Ruchi shares actionable advice for listeners to start their journey towards a more balanced and fulfilling sense of prosperity. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a busy parent, or just starting your adult life, this episode offers valuable insights to help you redefine what prosperity means to you.
Tune in to discover how you can cultivate a prosperous mindset and create a life of true abundance – in finances, relationships, and personal wellbeing.

Oct 8, 2024 • 23min
How To Turn Your Next Crisis Into an Opportunity
This edition of the Rundown with Ramon, small business expert, Ramon Ray gives tips on how you can turn your next crisis into an opportunity. How do you handle when things go wrong and not let it keep you back. This episode includes insights from Tania Karam, who helps people transform their lives into abundance.

Oct 7, 2024 • 33min
How to Speak Better and Get What You Want
In this episode of "The Rundown with Ramon," host Ramon Ray interviews Chad Kerby, author of "Speak and Get What You Want: Communicate Like the World's Most Successful Leaders."
Kerby shares valuable insights on effective communication, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, energy matching, and focusing on others' interests. He introduces concepts like the "Track and Field Principle," which highlights the power of passion in communication, and discusses the significance of maintaining a sharp focus to avoid overwhelming your audience. Throughout the conversation, Kirby stresses the need for continuous improvement in communication skills, regardless of one's current expertise level. This engaging discussion offers practical tips for enhancing both personal and professional communication, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their ability to connect and influence others effectively.

Oct 1, 2024 • 27min
Why Take More Risks and not let Fear Stop You
In this episode of the Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray, small business expert and publisher of ZoneofGenius.com, talks about
Why We Should Take More Risk and not let Fear Stop Us and more tips to help you live your best life or start or grow your business.
Other topics in this episode include:
- Why Your Appearance Matters- Types of Loans for Your Business- Patience is Essential for Business Success- How to Build Generational Wealth- How to Better Automate Time and Project Management In Your Business

Sep 26, 2024 • 30min
How To Build Generational Wealth for Your Children - Holly Reid
Today we're diving into an eye-opening conversation with Holly Reid, CEO of The Master Playbook. Holly's on a mission to help families and business owners build lasting wealth and leave a powerful legacy.
Key takeaways from our chat:
1. Legacy building isn't just for the ultra-rich. It's about creating value that lasts beyond your lifetime.
2. Forget complex financial jargon - Holly focuses on mindset shifts to kickstart your wealth journey.
3. Resistance from family members? Holly offers tips to address concerns and highlight the positive impact of increased wealth.
4. We discuss the importance of preparing your business for unexpected events. Holly shared a personal story that really drives this point home.
5. Action steps you can take today: Adopt a "legacy builder mentality," invest in yourself and your community, and start documenting your business assets properly.
Holly's company, The Master Playbook, is all about empowering the next generation to master money. Whether you're a parent or a business owner, her insights can help you create a lasting financial impact.
Want to learn more? Check out themasterplaybook.com or follow @themasterplaybook on social media.
Remember, as Holly says, "Legacy isn't built on intention alone. You have to take intentional action." So let's get out there and start building our financial legacies!
Don't forget to like, subscribe, and share if you found this valuable. Until next time!

Sep 20, 2024 • 24min
Selling Through Retail Stores Might Not Be a Great Option
Why Selling Through Retail Stores Might Not Be a Great Option for Small Business Owners and more tips for small business.