The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Mastering Leadership and Entrepreneurship: Insights from Andrew PolesIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Andrew Poles, Founder and CEO of Andrew Poles Executive Coaching. Andrew is an executive coach who helps startup founders and small business owners build leadership capacity, navigate high-pressure growth, and scale their ventures effectively. With a background in entrepreneurship and a passion for personal development, Andrew brings practical insights to leaders striving to grow not only their companies—but themselves.Building Founders Who Can Build CompaniesAndrew works with two key audiences: high-growth startup founders (particularly in tech and medtech), and small business owners navigating more stable, bootstrapped environments. For tech founders, challenges often revolve around investor pressure, scaling quickly, and transitioning from doing everything themselves to leading others. These leaders must rapidly establish culture, process, and structure in what Andrew calls a “pressure cooker” environment.Small business owners face a different set of obstacles. Without investor capital, they're often bootstrapping their operations and must maintain long-term stability while building sustainable growth. Andrew supports both types of founders with customized coaching that helps them sharpen leadership skills, foster emotional resilience, and drive strategic clarity—even amid chaos.He also discusses how systemic disruption—especially through AI—is reshaping how companies build, operate, and scale. While software companies can now move faster with leaner teams thanks to AI, product-focused businesses face greater uncertainty from external factors like tariffs and supply chain instability. Andrew’s coaching helps founders stay grounded and make smart decisions amid uncertainty.About Andrew PolesAndrew Poles is the Founder and CEO of Andrew Poles Executive Coaching, where he helps entrepreneurs grow as leaders while scaling successful businesses. With a background in startups and a deep understanding of leadership psychology, Andrew guides founders through personal and organizational transformation.About Andrew Poles Executive CoachingAndrew Poles Executive Coaching offers 1-on-1 coaching, leadership development, and strategic guidance tailored to entrepreneurs, founders, and executives. Andrew specializes in helping leaders in high-pressure, high-growth environments build the clarity, confidence, and capacity needed to scale both themselves and their companies.Links Mentioned in This Episode:Andrew Poles WebsiteAndrew Poles LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Startups vs. Small Business: The different leadership challenges faced by tech startup founders vs. bootstrapped business owners.The AI Shift: How artificial intelligence is changing the way software companies operate and compete.Leadership Pressure: Why transitioning from self-management to team leadership is one of the hardest leaps for first-time founders.Personal Development: Andrew’s philosophy that a founder’s growth directly shapes the company’s trajectory.Holistic Success: The importance of blending business goals with personal growth to create long-term fulfillment and impact.ConclusionJosh Elledge’s conversation with Andrew Poles delivers valuable insights for entrepreneurs navigating high-stakes leadership roles. Whether you're building a unicorn startup or growing a steady business from the ground up, Andrew’s experience and coaching approach can help you evolve as a leader while scaling your impact. His emphasis on holistic development reinforces the truth that business success begins with personal growth.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Navigating Public Service and Personal Transformation: Insights from Marie NewmanIn a compelling episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Marie Newman, President of Marie Newman Studio, about her remarkable journey from entrepreneurship to public office and now, strategic consulting. Marie shares lessons from her book, A Life Made from Scratch: Lessons from a Controversial Congresswoman, Mompreneur, and Unstoppable Political Activist, offering practical guidance for anyone at a career or life crossroads. This conversation explores Marie's transition from business owner to U.S. Congresswoman and highlights her continued advocacy for health equity, small business development, and personal reinvention.From Business to Congress: Marie Newman’s Unconventional PathMarie Newman’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and public service. She began as an entrepreneur, starting her own business while navigating the challenges of childcare and work-life balance. That hands-on experience—combined with advocacy work in women's rights and gun reform—ultimately led her to run for Congress, where she became the first woman elected to represent Illinois’ Third Congressional District.Marie’s time in office was marked by a deep focus on health equity and economic justice. Even after her tenure in Congress, her mission continues. She now consults with venture capital and private equity firms, helping healthcare companies grow and better serve underserved populations. Her passion stems from the reality that 40% of Americans rely on Medicaid—and many still struggle to access the services they need.Marie also speaks candidly about setbacks and imposter syndrome. She recalls losing her first political campaign before ultimately winning in 2020 and emphasizes that self-doubt is common, even among high-level leaders. Her advice? Embrace uncertainty and tackle hard things head-on—because real leadership means picking up the "sticky ball" that others ignore.About Marie NewmanMarie Newman is the President of Marie Newman Studio, a strategic consulting firm that advises clients in health equity, small business development, and social impact. A former U.S. Congresswoman and lifelong advocate, Marie draws from her experience in both business and politics to help individuals and organizations navigate complex transitions.About Marie Newman StudioMarie Newman Studio is a consulting practice focused on strategic planning, organizational development, and career transition support. The firm works with private equity and VC-backed companies, healthcare innovators, and mission-driven leaders who are driving real change in their industries and communities.Links Mentioned in This Episode:Marie Newman Studio WebsiteMarie Newman on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Entrepreneurial to Political Shift: Marie’s story of moving from small business ownership to Capitol Hill, driven by advocacy and personal purpose.Health Equity Advocacy: Insight into why health equity remains a critical issue—and how Marie helps companies address it through scalable solutions.Facing Imposter Syndrome: Marie normalizes self-doubt and shares how to reframe it as a strength for growth and leadership.Tools for Aspiring Public Servants: Resources and planning guides on her website for individuals interested in social movements or running for office.Life Transitions and Reinvention: Practical advice for navigating professional crossroads with clarity, purpose, and confidence.ConclusionMarie Newman’s conversation with Josh Elledge is both motivational and deeply practical. Whether you’re contemplating public service, launching a new venture, or simply ready for change, Marie offers tools, insights, and encouragement to help you move forward. Her journey exemplifies how embracing transformation—with persistence and heart—can lead to extraordinary impact.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

The Future of Insurance: How Flow is Revolutionizing the Industry with AIIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Sivan Iram, Co-Founder and CEO of Flow Specialty, a pioneering insurance brokerage. In this engaging conversation, Sivan shared valuable insights on how Flow is changing the landscape of commercial insurance, particularly for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), by leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to streamline processes, enhance expertise, and reduce costs.The Importance of AI in the Future of InsuranceThe insurance industry has traditionally been seen as slow to innovate, with many brokers relying on outdated systems and manual processes. However, Flow Specialty is redefining what’s possible by integrating artificial intelligence into its services. AI is not just a tool for improving efficiency; it’s also helping to enhance the depth of expertise available to businesses seeking coverage. By using AI to automate tasks like data extraction and policy comparison, Flow is providing brokers with better, more accurate options tailored to their clients' specific needs.In addition to streamlining processes, AI in insurance allows brokers to quickly assess the best policies for their clients, offering a level of accuracy that simply wasn’t possible with traditional methods. This makes the entire insurance process faster, more transparent, and ultimately more beneficial for the end customer. For SMBs, who often don’t have the same resources as larger enterprises to manage complex insurance needs, this approach is a game-changer.The use of AI is also allowing Flow to offer specialized services to businesses that might otherwise be overlooked by traditional brokers. Many small and medium-sized businesses struggle to secure appropriate coverage because they don’t fit the “typical” mold of large clients that brokers prioritize. Flow’s AI capabilities ensure that even the smallest accounts receive personalized attention, ensuring that businesses are properly protected from risks they might not have even considered.About Sivan IramSivan Iram is the Co-Founder and CEO of Flow Specialty, where he leads efforts to revolutionize the insurance industry. With a deep understanding of the challenges SMBs face in securing specialized insurance, Sivan is on a mission to provide businesses with innovative solutions that drive efficiency and reduce complexity.About Flow SpecialtyFlow Specialty is a cutting-edge wholesale insurance brokerage that focuses on helping businesses acquire tailored commercial insurance, including specialized products like directors and officers insurance, cyber liability, and professional liability. Flow’s AI-driven approach empowers brokers to deliver more precise, efficient, and effective coverage solutions, particularly for SMBs.Links Mentioned in This Episode:Flow Specialty WebsiteSivan Iram LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Flow's Unique Approach: How Flow is using AI to streamline insurance brokerage and improve service for small and medium-sized businesses.The Role of AI: Flow’s AI system passed an insurance certification exam, proving its expertise and demonstrating its potential in revolutionizing the industry.The Importance of Cyber Liability Insurance: Only 20% of small businesses have cyber liability insurance, but with rising cyber threats, every business should consider it.Entrepreneurial Risks: Sivan discusses how insurance mitigates risk for entrepreneurs and fosters a strong business economy.Actionable Tips for Business Owners: How business owners can evaluate their coverage and leverage AI-driven services to improve their insurance options.ConclusionThe conversation between Josh Elledge and Sivan Iram highlighted how Flow Specialty is transforming the insurance brokerage industry with its innovative use of AI. By addressing the unique challenges faced by SMBs and offering specialized coverage, Flow is helping entrepreneurs build more resilient businesses while ensuring they are protected from potential risks. For business owners seeking to optimize their insurance coverage, Flow offers an intelligent solution that combines expertise, efficiency, and tailored services.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Unlocking Leadership Potential: How Luciana Núñez Champions Coaching-Centric CulturesIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Luciana Núñez, Executive Coach at The Preston Associates and author of Coaching Power: Leading with Coaching to Create Individual, Team, and Organizational Outperformance. Luciana shares her deep passion for understanding human dynamics, her approach to building empowered leadership teams, and the actionable framework outlined in her new book. If you’re a founder or executive looking to level up your leadership and foster a high-performing team culture, this conversation offers strategic insight and practical tools.Embracing Coaching as the Future of LeadershipLuciana opens up about the human-centered influences that inform her coaching practice—particularly her appreciation for interpersonal storytelling, like in the series The White Lotus, which reveals the layered complexity of relationships. She sees a strong parallel between coaching and storytelling, noting that both require empathy, deep listening, and a willingness to challenge assumptions. Drawing from this, Luciana encourages leaders to observe how they engage with others and to reflect on the subtle cues that impact team dynamics.Professionally, Luciana emphasizes that 70% of her coaching work focuses on team coaching—not just individuals—which she believes is a more scalable and sustainable way to transform organizations. At The Preston Associates, she collaborates with a global network of coaches to implement systems-level leadership development. As companies face rapid growth or operational complexity, she helps leadership teams align on values, communication, and accountability—turning fragmentation into cohesion.Luciana also underscores the importance of coaching in navigating today's VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) environment. With up to five generations now represented in the workforce, leaders must adapt to evolving expectations—especially from younger employees who prefer empowerment over command-and-control leadership. Through her book Coaching Power, Luciana provides a step-by-step guide for leaders looking to adopt a coaching mindset, offering tools for giving feedback, driving clarity, and promoting self-leadership across all levels.About Luciana NúñezLuciana Núñez is an executive coach and thought leader in leadership transformation. As a partner at The Preston Associates, she specializes in helping senior executives and teams unlock peak performance through a coaching-centered approach. She is the author of Coaching Power, a practical guide for leaders aiming to drive measurable business outcomes through people empowerment.About The Preston AssociatesThe Preston Associates (TPA) is a global executive coaching firm that partners with leaders and organizations to create sustainable, high-performance cultures. Through tailored coaching, strategy facilitation, and leadership development, TPA supports organizations navigating complexity, change, and growth.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeThe Preston Associates WebsiteCoaching Power on AmazonLuciana Núñez on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsThe rising demand for team coaching over individual coachingHow to lead in a VUCA world with empathy and clarityWhy younger generations want coaches, not bossesTips for integrating coaching principles across an entire organizationA practical framework from Coaching Power to lead with impactConclusionLuciana Núñez offers a fresh, human-centered vision for modern leadership. Her insights around storytelling, empowerment, and cross-generational alignment reflect the shifting landscape of organizational development. If you're looking to lead with authenticity and elevate your team's performance, Luciana’s approach and book are invaluable resources.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

The Future of Public Relations: Leveraging AI and Authenticity with We Feature You PR's Zachary BernardIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Zachary Bernard, founder of We Feature You PR, to explore how AI and storytelling are reshaping the public relations landscape. Zachary shared his passion for authentic communication and offered valuable insights into media strategies, podcasting, and the future of earned media. If you’re a founder or business leader seeking organic growth through meaningful visibility, this episode is a must-listen.Redefining PR: Strategic Storytelling, AI, and Founder VisibilityZachary’s approach to public relations is rooted in earning trust, not just attention. He emphasizes that effective PR isn’t about buying exposure—it’s about earning it through strategic placements in publications that matter to your audience. Rather than chasing broad media hits, he advises founders to prioritize niche outlets and tailored storytelling that speaks directly to decision-makers. This shift away from generic, high-volume PR toward targeted and authentic media engagement is where long-term brand value is built.The conversation also tackled the rising role of AI in public relations. Zachary clarified that while AI tools can help with research and ideation, they’re no replacement for human authenticity. In fact, as synthetic content becomes more prevalent, people will crave real human voices and experiences more than ever. He encourages businesses to use AI to refine messaging, but always pair it with emotional intelligence and human connection—especially when pitching to journalists or appearing as a podcast guest.Speaking of podcasts, Zachary sees them as one of the most powerful tools for founder visibility today. Unlike traditional media, podcasting allows for longer-form, authentic conversations that build trust with listeners. He offered tactical advice for those new to guesting, including researching your target shows, tailoring pitches, starting with smaller podcasts to build confidence, and promoting your episodes after they air. These simple but effective strategies can dramatically increase your PR success and position you as a credible expert in your field.About Zachary BernardZachary Bernard is the founder of We Feature You PR and host of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook podcast. With a focus on earned media and organic brand growth, he helps founders and executives gain visibility through strategic PR and podcast features.About We Feature You PRWe Feature You PR helps founders and business leaders earn media placements and podcast features that build credibility and organic authority—without relying on paid ads.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeWe Feature You PR WebsiteZachary Bernard on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy earned media beats paid advertising for long-term brand credibilityHow AI is reshaping PR—and where human authenticity still winsTactical steps to pitch yourself as a podcast guestThe difference between broad vs. niche PR strategiesWhy storytelling is the foundation of any successful PR campaignConclusionThis episode with Zachary Bernard makes one thing clear: the future of PR lies in authenticity, precision, and trust-building. From leveraging AI the right way to showing up on podcasts with intention, Zachary’s insights are a playbook for founders ready to grow through connection, not clicks.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

How Transformational Leaders Inspire Real Growth with Executive Coach Ted WhetstoneIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Ted Whetstone, executive coach and transformational leadership expert. Ted shares how deep introspection, philosophical inquiry, and a values-based approach to coaching can empower today’s leaders to move from managing tasks to inspiring real change. If you’re a business leader looking to develop teams that think critically, grow independently, and lead with authenticity, this conversation offers valuable and actionable insights.Transformational Coaching Rooted in Philosophy, Nature, and ReflectionTed Whetstone isn’t your average executive coach. Drawing inspiration from the lives of breakthrough thinkers like Darwin and Da Vinci, Ted weaves his passion for writing and philosophical reflection into his leadership practice. Living in Santa Monica, he finds daily clarity in nature walks—balancing introspection with strategy. This connection to self-awareness and nature forms the bedrock of his coaching philosophy.Professionally, Ted focuses on C-suite leaders and executives managing $100M+ organizations. His approach emphasizes individual one-on-one coaching to help leaders uncover blind spots and clarify thinking. He believes true leadership is about facilitating others’ growth, not solving problems for them. Through empowering questions and thoughtful engagement, Ted helps leaders inspire intrinsic motivation in their teams—transforming reactive managers into proactive visionaries.He also highlights the evolving role of AI in coaching. While tools like ChatGPT can support cognitive processing, Ted emphasizes that no machine can replace the nuanced, human connection required for real transformation. His message? Use AI to assist, but never forget the power of presence.About Ted WhetstoneTed Whetstone is a transformational executive coach who specializes in working with high-level leaders across complex organizations. Drawing from decades of experience and a deep philosophical grounding, Ted empowers clients to cultivate introspection, overcome leadership plateaus, and drive meaningful impact within their teams and industries.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeTed Whetstone's WebsiteTed Whetstone on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsHow reflection and nature fuel better leadership decision-makingWhy great leaders ask questions instead of offering solutionsThe critical difference between motivation and inspirationHow to shift from management to facilitation in team developmentThe role and limits of AI in leadership coachingConclusionTed Whetstone reminds us that transformational leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about creating the space where others can discover their own. From strategic introspection to empowering conversations, his approach helps leaders unlock sustainable growth within themselves and their teams. If you're looking to deepen your leadership impact, Ted’s insights provide a compelling starting point.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Unlocking Business Growth: Leadership Insights from Business Growth Coach Dan ColemanOn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge spoke with Dan Coleman, a business growth coach. Dan shares valuable insights into building cohesive leadership teams, aligning operations for growth, and the importance of maintaining perspective as both a parent and a professional. This episode is filled with actionable strategies for business owners and leaders who want to grow with intention.Leading with Purpose: Dan Coleman's Approach to CoachingDan brings a unique perspective to business coaching by focusing on both professional success and personal balance. As a dedicated father, Dan talks about supporting his two teenagers in sports like wrestling, baseball, and football—highlighting the emotional rollercoaster of parenting and how it parallels leadership. Just as in business, success in parenting often hinges on perspective, patience, and staying grounded.In his work with small to mid-sized businesses, Dan helps leadership teams align their operations using a comprehensive system. He emphasizes the power of storytelling in leadership, where leaders communicate vision and values in a relatable way that inspires teams. Instead of relying on one "rock star," Dan champions collaboration, teaching businesses to build engaged teams with clearly defined roles and responsibilities.Dan also highlights the value of hiring an outside coach—someone who brings an objective lens and helps leadership teams focus on their most critical challenges. Just like a sports coach, Dan offers strategic guidance, honest feedback, and alignment, helping organizations sharpen their performance and build lasting value.About Dan ColemanDan Coleman is a seasoned business growth coach who helps small to mid-sized businesses scale by strengthening their leadership teams and aligning company operations. With decades of experience and a passion for storytelling and strategic clarity, Dan is committed to helping organizations reach their full potential.About Dan Coleman (Company)Dan Coleman offers business coaching services for growth-minded companies seeking better alignment, stronger leadership, and increased enterprise value. Dan partners with leadership teams to create clarity, improve execution, and build scalable systems for long-term success.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeDan Coleman's WebsiteConnect with Dan on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy storytelling is a powerful leadership tool for team engagementThe danger of relying on a single “savior” in business growthHow a clear operating system aligns teams and improves outcomesThe benefits of hiring an outside coach to bring clarity and focusPreparing for the “Silver Tsunami” of baby boomer business exitsConclusionThis episode highlights how effective leadership, team alignment, and outside guidance can unlock real growth for your business. Dan Coleman’s coaching philosophy blends clarity, collaboration, and strategic execution—helping businesses build long-term value and resilience.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Enhancing Event Security Through Innovation and Expertise with Stratoscope's Dan DonovanIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Dan Donovan, founder and managing partner of Stratoscope, about redefining event security through advanced technology and strategic planning. With a background in managing security for high-profile events like the Super Bowl and the Olympics, Dan shares insights on how his company is transforming safety measures to protect attendees while enhancing the overall event experience.From integrating AI-based weapons detection to navigating the evolving threat landscape post-pandemic, Dan offers a wealth of actionable strategies for event organizers, security professionals, and business leaders aiming to prioritize both safety and guest satisfaction.The Future of Event Security is Proactive and Tech-DrivenDan Donovan brings a holistic approach to event security. At Stratoscope, his team doesn’t just react to threats—they anticipate and plan for them. Whether securing a global sports event or a private gathering, the process starts with rigorous risk assessments and ends with tailored security strategies that blend visibility and subtlety.A standout innovation discussed in the episode is Stratoscope’s use of AI-based threat detection technology. These tools allow for real-time monitoring and non-intrusive scanning, ensuring the event atmosphere remains enjoyable while maximizing safety. Dan emphasizes that true security success hinges on coordination with local law enforcement, detailed contingency planning, and well-trained personnel ready to handle any scenario.Post-pandemic challenges have also transformed how Stratoscope operates. Health and safety protocols now complement traditional security measures, and Dan’s team has expanded their services to include hybrid and virtual event security, proving that adaptability is key in today’s environment.About Dan DonovanDan Donovan is the founder and managing partner of Stratoscope, a firm known for securing some of the world’s most prominent events. With decades of experience in security and a deep understanding of emerging technologies, Dan is recognized as a leader in strategic safety planning. He’s also an avid boater and recently engaged—reminding us that balance between high-stakes work and personal joy is possible.About StratoscopeStratoscope designs and executes comprehensive event security plans for organizations of all sizes. From risk analysis to on-site execution, their services include advanced surveillance technologies, AI-based detection systems, coordination with local authorities, and contingency preparedness. They’ve successfully secured marquee events like the Super Bowl and the Olympics.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeStratoscope WebsiteDan Donovan on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsThe power of AI-based weapons detection in modern event securityWhy early engagement with security experts leads to better outcomesHow Stratoscope designs non-intrusive security that enhances guest experienceThe post-pandemic evolution of event safety planningDan’s philosophy on building a positive security team cultureConclusionDan Donovan’s conversation with Josh offers a compelling look into the future of event security. Through a blend of advanced technology and thoughtful strategy, Dan demonstrates how events can be both safe and enjoyable. For planners and professionals looking to elevate their event security, Stratoscope’s approach is a game-changer.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

How TestDevLab’s Ervins Grīnfelds Built a Global Software Testing Powerhouse Without Outside FundingOn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Ervins Grīnfelds, co-founder and co-CEO of TestDevLab, to explore the critical role of quality assurance (QA) in software development. Ervins shares how his company—launched from Latvia—has become a go-to QA partner for giants like Zoom, Microsoft, Discord, and Pinterest. This episode unpacks how smart QA practices can reduce risk, speed up development, and help businesses deliver world-class software.Why Quality Assurance Should Start on Day OneErvins explained that most companies think of QA as something to address at the end of development. But at TestDevLab, the approach is radically different: quality assurance starts at the very beginning. Integrating QA early means identifying bugs before they compound, improving user experience from the outset, and significantly lowering long-term costs. With a background leading mobile development teams at Microsoft’s Skype, Ervins knows firsthand how missed bugs can affect product success and customer trust.Ervins also discussed how modern QA isn't just about functionality. It’s about legal compliance (especially accessibility standards), performance optimization across devices, and ensuring high standards in today’s AI-infused tech environment. With AI now playing a growing role in software development and testing, TestDevLab incorporates machine learning tools—but never loses sight of the human element. Their hybrid approach blends automation and manual expertise for reliable results.Another theme was scaling without outside funding. TestDevLab has grown to more than 500 employees and over 10 offices across Europe—all without a dollar of venture capital. Ervins offered his philosophy: build something valuable, prove its worth, and let great service drive sustainable growth.About Ervins GrīnfeldsErvins Grīnfelds is the co-founder and co-CEO of TestDevLab. A former engineering manager at Microsoft, where he led Skype mobile development teams, Ervins brings deep insight into building scalable, high-quality tech services. He is passionate about delivering reliable software solutions through a blend of trust, rigorous testing, and technical innovation.About TestDevLabTestDevLab is a leading software quality assurance company trusted by global tech giants including Zoom, Discord, Microsoft, Pinterest, and Twilio. Based in Latvia with 10+ offices across Europe, the company specializes in test automation, continuous testing, and custom QA solutions to accelerate development cycles and ensure top-tier product quality.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeTestDevLab WebsiteErvins Grīnfelds on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy software QA is like insurance for your productHow TestDevLab scaled to 500+ employees without fundingThe hidden cost of skipping early-stage QAWhat it takes to win enterprise clients like Zoom and MicrosoftThe future of QA in an AI-driven development landscapeConclusionErvins Grīnfelds gave us a behind-the-scenes look at how one of Europe’s fastest-growing software QA companies is helping developers ship better software, faster. His story is a lesson in long-term thinking, strategic growth, and the value of starting with quality from day one. Whether you're a startup founder or a CTO at a scaling tech company, this episode is a must-listen.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Mastering Marketing and Public Speaking with Profitable Impact Academy’s Kat HalushkaOn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge welcomed Kat Halushka, international mentor, speaker, and co-founder of Profitable Impact Academy. Kat shared her remarkable journey from launching a six-figure marketing agency to becoming a high-impact public speaking coach. With a passion for authentic connection and storytelling, Kat delivers a fresh perspective on how entrepreneurs can amplify their marketing efforts through public speaking.The Power of Storytelling in MarketingKat began by discussing her personal love for pickleball—a hobby she picked up recently—and how such personal touches humanize entrepreneurs in the eyes of their audience. She believes that marketing success stems from more than polished campaigns; it’s rooted in storytelling and authenticity. Her evolution from running a digital agency to co-founding Profitable Impact Academy was fueled by recognizing that speaking, not just selling, was the most effective growth lever for entrepreneurs.At Profitable Impact Academy, Kat helps business owners build one powerful talk that works across platforms—from webinars and podcasts to in-person events. By teaching people to speak with intention, Kat enables entrepreneurs to attract ideal clients without resorting to aggressive sales tactics. She champions the idea of “speaking to convert” while maintaining a connection-first mindset.Kat also emphasized the importance of consistency on social media—advising entrepreneurs to document their journey rather than overthink content creation. She and Josh agreed that showcasing both personal and professional moments fosters trust and resonance in a saturated online world. In today’s marketing landscape, authenticity wins over polish.About Kat HalushkaKat Halushka is an international mentor, speaker, and coach. After moving to Canada, she built a six-figure marketing agency from scratch in under a year—only to sell it soon after to pursue her true calling: helping entrepreneurs grow businesses that support their ideal lifestyle. Over the past two years, Kat has spoken on over 200 stages and has generated more than $1 million in revenue through those appearances.About Profitable Impact AcademyProfitable Impact Academy helps entrepreneurs master the art of public speaking as a business growth tool. Through their signature programs like the Profitable Speaker Bootcamp, the Academy empowers business owners to craft compelling talks that consistently attract and convert clients across multiple platforms.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeProfitable Impact AcademyConnect with Kat on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsHow pickleball taught Kat the importance of balance and connectionWhy public speaking is a scalable, repeatable client attraction systemThe difference between content creation and content documentationHow authenticity outperforms polished perfection on social mediaThe structure of the Profitable Speaker Bootcamp and its transformative resultsThis episode offers entrepreneurs a compelling case for using public speaking as a marketing vehicle. With Kat Halushka’s insights, business owners can shift from chasing leads to attracting them—by telling their story, staying consistent, and showing up authentically across platforms.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here.What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here.Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!