The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Unlocking Fundraising Success: Effective Communication Strategies for NonprofitsIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh engages with Grace Nelson, CEO of Magenta, to discuss the vital role of effective communication in the nonprofit sector, especially in fundraising. Grace emphasizes transparency and accountability in conveying impact to donors and funders. Josh introduces the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connections with partners, investors, and clients, highlighting his extensive experience with over 2,000 leaders. He promotes a free video class on his website, "Up My Influence," which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics.Grace Nelson, introduced as both the CEO of Magenta and an accomplished bassist, shares her passion for music, adding a relatable dimension to her character. She explains that Magenta specializes in fundraising communications for mission-driven organizations, helping them effectively raise funds to address societal problems. Grace stresses the importance of nonprofits demonstrating their impact and responsible use of capital to build trust with donors. Josh and Grace delve into the significance of effective communication, noting that nonprofits face unique challenges in justifying their revenue since donors often do not directly benefit from the services provided.As the conversation progresses, Grace shares insights on current trends in the nonprofit sector, emphasizing the increased demand for transparency and digital engagement. She highlights the importance of impact reporting and creating effective case studies and impact reports. Grace also reflects on her entrepreneurial journey, celebrating Magenta's fifth anniversary and sharing lessons learned, such as defining clear offerings and establishing processes. The episode concludes with Josh thanking Grace for her insights and encouraging listeners to connect with her on LinkedIn and explore the Magenta website, leaving them with practical strategies for enhancing communication and fundraising efforts in the nonprofit space.About Grace Nelson:Magenta’s founder, Grace, is a focused and enthusiastic leader who excels at capturing organizatonal vision and translating it into measurable impact. Grace is uniquely capable of drawing articulate insights from complex information and creating compelling narratives that inspire support.At Magenta’s helm, Grace brings an outcomes-focused approach to fundraising and growth. Since 2019, Magenta has partnered with numerous mission-focused organizations to clarify and communicate their impact, harnessing the results to achieve transformational scale in programs reach, audience engagement, and revenue.Prior to launching Magenta, Grace served as the Director of Strategy and Data Analytics at the Woodruff Arts Center in Atlanta, where she led campaign operations for $40 million in contributed revenue. Her tenure at the Woodruff equipped her with a working knowledge of strategic planning, case writing, development operations, fundraising, and nonprofit management.Grace holds an MBA from Georgia Institute of Technology, concentrating in Strategy and Innovation, and bachelors degrees in Studio Art and Finance from the University of Georgia. A person of limitless interests, she is an active community volunteer, tennis player, artist, and musician, spending much of her non-Magenta time songwriting and performing with Atlanta-based rock band The Frontrunners.About Magenta:Magenta is a strategic consulting firm focused on driving transformational change for organizations, leaders, and communities. With a commitment to fostering inclusive, sustainable, and impactful growth, Magenta partners with clients to create tailored strategies that address complex challenges and deliver long-term value. Through their unique approach, Magenta empowers organizations to enhance their operations, improve leadership effectiveness, and achieve meaningful outcomes. Specializing in strategy development, leadership coaching, and organizational transformation, Magenta's team leverages deep expertise and innovative methodologies to guide businesses and individuals toward success. Whether navigating change, building resilience, or pursuing strategic growth, Magenta provides the insights and support needed to thrive in today’s dynamic world.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Magenta website at https://www.magentastrategy.org/Check out Magenta on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/magenta-strategy/Check out Grace Nelson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/grace-a-nelson/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

Emotional Intelligence in Communication: Building Stronger ConnectionsIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh engages with Steve Gallegos, the president and founder of the Stevie G. Success Group. Steve's varied career as a U.S. Marine, police officer, trial lawyer, commercial photographer, and recording artist provides him with unique insights into the art of communication. This blog post explores key themes from their conversation, offering actionable advice and expert recommendations to enhance your communication skills.Steve Gallegos emphasizes that effective communication is crucial for success in both personal and professional settings. He identifies three pillars of effective communication: self-talk, audience focus, and engagement techniques. Self-talk involves the internal dialogue within our minds, which can often be negative due to past experiences. To overcome this, Steve suggests cultivating positive self-talk by identifying and challenging negative beliefs and replacing them with positive affirmations. This transformation can boost confidence and improve communication skills.Focusing on the audience is another critical aspect of effective communication. Steve advises understanding your audience's needs and tailoring your message to resonate with them. Engaging actively with your audience by asking questions and encouraging participation fosters a deeper connection. Steve also discusses his approach to client engagement, emphasizing the importance of addressing underlying communication issues within organizations. By investing in communication skills through workshops, personalized coaching, and fostering open communication, companies can enhance performance and morale. For more insights, Steve invites listeners to explore resources on his website, https://www.steviegsuccess.com/.About Steve Gallegos:With a kaleidoscope of experiences shaping his journey, Steve Gallegos is not your typical success expert. Known widely as " America's Ambassador on Success,” Steve is an authority on personal development, communication, and self-mastery. With a career that spans the disciplined halls of the U.S. Marine Corps to the high-stakes world of law enforcement, Steve learned resilience and adaptability early on. These lessons proved invaluable as he transitioned into the creative realm, exploring his passions as a singer-songwriter, recording artist, and published photographer. Yet, Steve's journey was far from over.Embracing new challenges, he became a Board-Certified Trial Lawyer, mastering persuasion and human psychology in the courtroom. Not content with excelling in just one field, Steve also ventured into the digital frontier as an Internet Entrepreneur, navigating the ever-evolving landscape of online business. He is a best-selling and award-winning author of “ How to Live Remarkably: Proven Strategies to Solve Your Problems, Make Better Decisions, and Eliminate Stress.” His upcoming book release “Unshackled: For Women Ready to Yell CUT! and Write and Direct Their Own Life,” is a transformational guide that empowers women to step beyond being passive participants in their life stories. The book shows women how to yell CUT! and become the writers, producers, and directors of their own lives, enabling them to create meaningful, purpose-driven futures.Steve’ s work empowers entrepreneurs, professionals, and business owners to break free from limiting beliefs, improve communication, and build authentic relationships. His unique approach blends practical, real-world strategies with deep personal insight, helping his clients achieve lasting success in both personal and professional spheres. Through his coaching, speaking engagements, and groundbreaking personal development programs, Steve inspires and guides others toward lives of fulfillment, purpose, and achievement. Driven by an unwavering belief in human potential, Steve firmly believes that by breaking personal limits, we can all contribute to society at a higher level. In Steve's world, your past doesn't define your future—it merely sets the stage for your greatest transformation yet.About The Stevie G. Success Group:The Stevie G. Success Group is a leading coaching and consulting firm dedicated to helping entrepreneurs, business leaders, and organizations unlock their full potential. With a focus on personal development, strategic growth, and business transformation, Stevie G. and his team empower clients to break through obstacles, achieve peak performance, and scale their businesses with confidence. The company combines proven success strategies with a personalized, results-driven approach to foster leadership excellence and create sustainable growth. Whether you're looking to enhance your leadership capabilities, improve business operations, or overcome specific challenges, The Stevie G. Success Group provides the tools, guidance, and support to drive lasting success.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out The Stevie G. Success Group website at https://www.steviegsuccess.com/6b6/Check out Steve Gallegos on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/steviegsuccess/Check out Steve Gallegos on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevieg/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

The Roadmap to Retirement: Strategic Planning for Small Business SuccessIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in an insightful conversation with Jonda Lowe, founder and CEO of JondaKnows, a financial services company. With nearly four decades of experience, Jonda shares valuable financial strategies tailored to small business owners, particularly those generating 6 to 7 figures annually. This episode provides actionable advice for optimizing financial plans and retirement strategies.Jonda highlights common misconceptions in traditional retirement planning, particularly the reliance on 401(k) plans. He emphasizes that tax deferral, inflation, and market risks make them less effective for many small business owners. Instead, Jonda recommends exploring alternatives like Roth IRAs and customized non-qualified plans to provide more flexibility, tax benefits, and retention strategies for key employees.Throughout the conversation, Jonda stresses the importance of personalized financial advice for small business owners. His company, Jonda Knows, offers a comprehensive range of services, including retirement planning and guaranteed income products. He encourages listeners to explore the resources available on their website and stay informed about upcoming tools, like a mobile app, to make more informed financial decisions.About Jonda Lowe:Jonda Lowe is a best-selling author, fintech app developer, finance podcaster, and personal finance expert with nearly four decades of experience. She has helped thousands of clients create sound retirement strategies while challenging outdated financial wisdom. Jonda’s mission is to empower people to take control of their financial futures by dispelling myths and promoting faith-based financial decisions.Her latest book, Why You Must Take Your Hands Off God’s Money, published in December 2024, combines practical financial advice with faith-based principles. It provides a unique approach to budgeting, investing, and wealth building through tithing and stewardship.Jonda is also the founder of Jonda Knows, an innovative AI-driven fintech app launching in January 2025. The app helps users track spending, create budgets, and monitor investments with tools like “Can I Afford It?” and the Tithe Challenge, empowering users to make smarter, faith-aligned financial decisions. Known for her innovative thinking, Jonda is a trusted speaker and advisor, dedicated to changing lives through financial education and leadership.About JondaKnows:The JondaKnows, Inc. is a trusted financial services firm committed to providing tailored solutions for small business owners, entrepreneurs, and individuals looking to optimize their financial strategies. With nearly four decades of experience, the company specializes in offering personalized retirement planning, investment advice, and wealth management. Led by Jonda Lowe, a seasoned expert in financial services, JondaKnows focuses on educating clients about alternative retirement options, tax-efficient strategies, and employee retention plans. By combining in-depth knowledge with a client-centered approach, JondaKnows empowers businesses to secure their financial future and achieve lasting success. Whether you're planning for retirement, managing your business finances, or looking for guidance on investment strategies, JondaKnows delivers flexible, innovative solutions that align with your unique goals.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out JondaKnows website at https://jondaknows.com/Check out JondaKnows on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/jondaknows-inc/Check out Jonda Lowe on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jondalowe/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

The Pursuit of Excellence in BusinessIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh talks with David Jones, founder of The Excellence Advisory, about achieving excellence in business and leadership. They discuss how organizations can break free from mediocrity and drive high performance, focusing on practical systems and processes that require discipline and consistency. The conversation highlights the importance of creating a culture of excellence that empowers teams without promoting perfectionism.David explains that while striving for perfection is crucial in areas with defined standards, such as customer service or software development, it’s important to recognize when "good enough" is sufficient. He encourages leaders to avoid burnout by fostering a collaborative environment that sets realistic expectations and supports continuous improvement. Leaders should take responsibility for setting their teams up for success, cultivating a mindset that views mistakes as opportunities for growth.The episode also emphasizes the significance of understanding client needs and expectations, hiring individuals who share a commitment to excellence, and creating a culture that fosters empowerment and collaboration. By aligning their teams with these principles, organizations can achieve remarkable results and thrive, leaving behind a legacy of high performance.About David Jones:David M. Jones is sought after as a teacher, coach, consultant, and speaker for his expertise in helping organizations achieve peak operating performance, what he calls PeakOps. As an engineer and business owner turned educator, he is widely regarded by organizational leaders and owners as a go-to source for achieving and sustaining extraordinary operational and financial results.He is also known globally for his harrowing, heroic, and heartwarming overnight trek (17 miles crawling, climbing, walking) through the aftermath of Hurricane Helene to get to his daughter’s wedding on time to walk her down the aisle.Over his career, he has worked for and with some of the world’s most successful organizations including Texas Instruments, Siemens, Pal’s Business Excellence Institute, and the Savannah Bananas.He’s taught as an adjunct professor in engineering and business excellence at two universities.He knows what it’s like to run his own business. He co-founded, built, and sold a K-12 hands-on educational products company. He is currently the Founder and President of The Excellence Advisory, teaching small- and medium-sized organizations and their leaders how to reach their full God-given potential.David believes every leader deserves to run a great business, every employee deserves to work in a great business, and every customer deserves to shop at a great business. He is the recipient of the 2020 McWherter Leadership Award from the Tennessee Center for Performance Excellence. He has served on multiple local, national, and international boards. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Engineering from Purdue University and a Master’s degree in Industrial Engineering from the University of Tennessee.About The Excellence Advisory:The Excellence Advisory is a premier consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations break free from mediocrity and unlock their full potential. Led by David Jones, a seasoned expert in business excellence, the company focuses on empowering leaders to create high-performing cultures through strategic systems, continuous improvement, and disciplined execution. With a mission to guide businesses toward sustainable success, The Excellence Advisory offers tailored solutions that foster leadership, enhance operational processes, and drive exceptional results. Whether you're aiming to elevate your team's performance or streamline your business processes, The Excellence Advisory provides the insights and tools to turn excellence into a core organizational value.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out The Excellence Advisory website at https://theexcellenceadvisory.com/Check out The Excellence Advisory on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-excellence-advisory/Check out David Jones on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidmjones/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

The Relationship Revolution: How to Elevate Your Business Through Meaningful ConnectionsIn the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Kevin Thompson, founder of the Maximum Response Marketing, Impact & Legacy Collective, and host of the "Million Dollar Relationships" podcast. The discussion highlights the pivotal role that high-level relationships play in the success of entrepreneurs and business leaders. Kevin shares his experiences and insights on how meaningful connections can lead to significant impacts in both business and philanthropic efforts. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners in building valuable relationships.Josh begins the episode by emphasizing the importance of building connections with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to understand where their best business comes from. Kevin Thompson expresses his excitement about being on the podcast and shares his passion for facilitating meaningful relationships and strategic partnerships. He describes his work as incredibly rewarding, as it allows him to impact millions of lives through the connections he helps create. Kevin reflects on the success of his podcast, which has been running for nearly three years, and how it has become one of the most fulfilling endeavors of his 29-year entrepreneurial journey.The conversation touches on the concept of a "whisper network," where business gets done behind the scenes through genuine connections rather than flashy networking events. Josh and Kevin agree that many significant deals occur in informal settings, such as golf courses or mixers, where individuals can connect without the pressure of immediate business expectations. As the conversation wraps up, Kevin invites listeners to engage with him through his podcast, the "Million Dollar Relationships." He encourages them to check out the nearly 300 episodes available and to reach out if they resonate with the content. By following these insights and actionable tips, entrepreneurs and business leaders can cultivate high-level relationships that drive success and create lasting, positive change.About Kevin Thompson:After selling $16.1 Million of his own products and services solely through strategic partnership, Kevin Thompson intimately understands the value of right relationships.Hosting the Million Dollar Relationships podcast is the most rewarding he has done in his 29 years as an entrepreneur because it's exponentially expanded his ability to serve.Kevin facilitates strategic partnerships that have impacted millions of people's lives and led to millions of dollars in revenue being created.About Maximum Response Marketing:Maximum Response Marketing, founded by Kevin Thompson, specializes in helping businesses generate measurable results through strategic direct response marketing. With expertise in email campaigns, sales funnels, and high-conversion copywriting, Kevin focuses on building authentic relationships and creating win-win collaborations that drive revenue and customer loyalty. Maximum Response Marketing empowers businesses to maximize their impact and achieve sustainable growth.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Maximum Response Marketing website at https://maximum-response.com/Check out Kevin Thompson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-thompson-11725511/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

A Deep Dive into HR Consulting and OutsourcingIn this episode, we spoke with Jim Cichanski, founder and CEO of Flex HR, about the evolving landscape of HR consulting and outsourcing. Jim shared his extensive experience in the industry, highlighting how Flex HR has grown over the past 25 years to become the largest HR consulting and outsourcing firm in the Southeast. Flex HR provides a comprehensive range of services, including employee onboarding, payroll management, and compliance oversight, helping businesses navigate the complexities of HR as they scale. Jim emphasized that professional HR support becomes essential as startups grow, enabling leaders to focus on core operations while ensuring compliance and employee satisfaction.Jim also discussed the increasing impact of technology and AI in the HR space. While automation can streamline processes like payroll and benefits management, he stressed the importance of maintaining a human touch in HR interactions to build trust and engagement. Flex HR serves companies with 50 to 500 employees, offering tailored solutions for both small and larger organizations. With a team of 50 consultants across the country, Flex HR is committed to mentoring and supporting HR professionals, ensuring businesses develop strong HR practices and maintain compliance with evolving regulations.As the episode concludes, Jim highlights the value of trust and transparency in leadership, underscoring the importance of clear communication and consistent follow-through. Flex HR also offers webinars, training sessions, and other resources to empower HR professionals and business leaders. For those interested in enhancing their HR functions and fostering a positive work environment, Flex HR provides the expertise and tools needed to ensure long-term success.About Jim Cichanski:Jim, the Founder and CHRO for Flex HR has 50+ years’ experience in human resources, holding senior level positions in companies that were privately held, pre-IPO, foreign owned, joint venture, Fortune 50 and one labeled the “fastest growing F1000 in America.”  He has a solid background in high tech, manufacturing, services and management.His background in human resources includes organizational process evaluation and improvement, labor laws, integration of businesses, cost reduction, organizational development, and all functional areas of human resources.  These include but are not limited to Benefits, Compensation, Staffing, Diversity, ERISA, DOL Compliance, Immigration, Learning & Development, Stock Administration, Executive Compensation, Employee Relations, and over 350 Mergers & Acquisitions.  Jim’s experience includes operational HR management knowledge globally in 32 countries and has transitioned companies from 30 to 67,000 employees worldwide.  Companies he has worked for include Unisys, Novell, Premiere Technologies and PaySys International. Jim is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt.Jim also spent 27 years in the Army National Guard achieving the rank of Colonel, was inducted into the Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame, and received numerous awards including the Legion of Merit.  Jim holds a BA in Applied Behavioral Sciences, is a graduate of the Department of Defense Equal Opportunity Institute, has served on the board of HealthSource of Georgia, recently served on the Board of Directors for HomeStretch and was an inside board member of 17 companies.  He is an active member of many HR professional organizations.Flex HR has been named one of the “Top 25 Most Promising HR Outsourcing Service Providers” in Outsourcing Gazette Magazine in October 2015. In September 2008, 2012 and 2013 INC Magazine recognized Flex HR as an Inc 5000 “Fastest GrowingAbout Flex HR:Flex HR is co-located in the Atlanta, GA metro area as well as the Chicago, IL metro area and is a full service, Human Resources firm, supporting any and all HR management functions. We customize plans for each client, letting you choose only the services you need as your business evolves. Our comprehensive offering includes high-level strategic consulting and planning, HR back office administration, regulatory compliance, organizational development, benefit solutions, mergers, recruiting, training, payroll, employee websites, ethics hotline and administration, risk management, and human capital consulting and outsourcing, to name a few. Flex HR delivers intelligent HR expertise allowing companies to concentrate on their internal resources to grow their core business.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Flex HR website at https://flexhr.com/Check out Flex HR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/flex-hr/Check out Jim Cichanski on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-cichanski-3253b/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

Securing Life-Saving Technology: The Importance of Cybersecurity in Medical DevicesIn this episode, host Josh speaks with Christian Espinosa, CEO of Blue Goat Cyber, about the growing importance of cybersecurity in medical devices. From surgical robots to implantable devices like pacemakers, Christian highlights how today's advanced healthcare technology is increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. He shares real-world examples—like the disabling of former Vice President Dick Cheney’s defibrillator wireless feature—to illustrate how life-threatening these vulnerabilities can be if not addressed properly.Christian explains how Blue Goat Cyber partners with both startups and established medtech companies to integrate cybersecurity into the early stages of device development. This proactive approach helps manufacturers comply with regulatory standards and protect patients from potential cyberattacks. Christian's personal experience with a health scare deepened his commitment to securing medical devices and gives him a unique, patient-first perspective on the work his company does.To support clients, Blue Goat Cyber offers white papers, podcasts, and webinars covering FDA regulations and device security best practices. Christian encourages medtech innovators to engage early and book discovery calls to assess their cybersecurity needs. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, he stresses that cybersecurity is not just about compliance—it's essential for safeguarding lives and building trust in the devices patients depend on.About Christian Espinosa:Christian Espinosa is the founder and CEO of Blue Goat Cyber, a leading authority in cybersecurity and a recognized expert in medical device security. He is driving significant advancements that prioritize patient safety and data integrity, embodying a proactive and innovative approach to his work. As the author of "The Smartest Person in the Room" and "The In-Between: Life in the Micro," Christian boldly shares his evolution from competitive to compassionate leadership.An avid adventurer, he thrives on extreme sports, heavy metal music, and spicy foods. His impressive credentials as a certified skydiver, PADI divemaster, and Ironman Triathlete demonstrate his unwavering commitment to personal growth and transformative leadership.About Blue Goat Cyber:Blue Goat Cyber provides full-service medical device cybersecurity support, addressing challenges throughout the premarket and postmarket phases. From managing Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) to conducting threat modeling, penetration testing, and Static Application Security Testing (SAST), we integrate cybersecurity into every stage of your product lifecycle. Our solutions ensure compliance with FDA guidelines, IEC 62304, ISO 14971, and EU MDR/IVDR regulations while safeguarding patient safety and device reliability.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Blue Goat Cyber website at https://bluegoatcyber.com//Check out Blue Goat Cyber on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-goat-cyber/Check out Christian Espinosa on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianespinosa/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

Building a Brand in a Competitive MarketIn this episode, we chat with Gregory Vetter, a former insurance salesman turned successful entrepreneur and author of Undressed: The Unfiltered Story of My Failed American Dream and How It Led to Success. Gregory shares his inspiring journey from feeling unfulfilled in his insurance job to creating Tessemae's, a thriving salad dressing brand. His story highlights the importance of persistence, customer feedback, and embracing challenges, showing how one pivotal idea can transform a career.Gregory’s entrepreneurial spark was ignited when someone stole his mother’s homemade salad dressing, prompting him to bottle and sell it. After securing a meeting with a local grocery store and using a hands-on sampling strategy, Tessemae's took off, selling 660 bottles in just five days. His approach, which focused on health-conscious ingredients and direct customer engagement, helped him stand out in a competitive market.Today, Gregory operates several businesses, including a produce and manufacturing company and a brand accelerator, while mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. His journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, creative marketing, and learning from both successes and setbacks. Gregory’s story is a powerful reminder that with resilience and an open mind, any entrepreneur can turn their passion into a thriving business.About Gregory Vetter:Gregory Vetter is a well established innovator and disruptor in the clean food movement. The oldest of the Vetter brothers, he had the brilliant idea of launching Tessemae’s after being inspired by his mother’s wildly popular homemade dressing recipe. What Gregory knew, and the American consumer base was soon to discover, was that the idea would soon resonate widely and give rise to an entirely new clean food category. Gregory and his broader family, primarily brothers, Matt and Brian, cultivated the business and in a mere 5 years translated their vision into becoming the #1 organic salad dressing brand in the refrigerated space. The emergence of Tessemae’s paved the way for clean manufacturing on a mass scale by virtue of inventing the only gum-free dressing bottling process. Ultimately, that manufacturing process led to the creation of the “fresh condiment” category and, similarly, the first Whole30 approved bottled dressings and condiments in the nation. With the wind clearly at their back, Gregory and his brothers launched Alta Fresh Food Company. Alta Fresh Food has since pioneered a better way to get great tasting salads to the masses through their innovative “master kitting” process and breakthrough R & R&D team. After their triumph as “Sam’s Club Supplier of the Year”, resulting from their “Master Kitting” process, Alta was propelled to the forefront of the fresh food solutions industry. More recently, Gregory elected to take his lessons learned from his sustained success in the food industry and launched “Home Grown Brand Accelerator”. Home Grown was developed with a singular purpose in mind, “to empower the next generation of brands by making the “playbook” available to whomever had the desire to build the next great American brand.” Winner of Inc. Magazines Entrepreneur of the Year award, Inc Magazines 35 under 35, EY Entrepreneur of the year finalist, TED talk speaker, Nielsen Design Impact Award for Packaging, And Sam's Club Supplier of the Year, Gregory spends his time with his wife and 4 children onApply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Gregory Vetter website at https://www.gregoryvetter.com/Check out Gregory Vetter on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregvetter/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.

In this episode, Josh sits down with Collin Graves, the visionary founder of North Labs, to delve into the transformative power of data in the business landscape. Collin shares his expertise on how organizations can harness data to significantly enhance productivity, efficiency, and profitability. He sheds light on the often daunting challenges of data integration, especially when dealing with a multitude of SaaS platforms, and how these challenges can impede business growth. Collin also discusses the exciting potential of generative AI in streamlining operations and minimizing software clutter, offering a glimpse into the future of data management.The conversation takes a deeper turn as Collin reflects on the emotional journey many clients experience when they realize the necessity for improved data management. He outlines the practical steps North Labs employs to elevate data maturity within organizations, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle their data challenges. Collin provides valuable insights into effectively addressing these challenges, emphasizing the importance of a strategic approach to data integration and management. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the comprehensive services offered by North Labs, designed to empower businesses to unlock the full potential of their data and drive sustainable growth.

The Art of Connection: Transform Your Networking Approach for Greater SuccessIn this episode, we sit down with Devin Sizemore, connector, consultant, speaker, and author of the best-selling book Connection Expansion. Devin shares how one meaningful relationship can drastically shift the trajectory of a business or personal journey. He emphasizes that many people are just one connection away from unlocking transformative opportunities and encourages a mindset shift around how we approach networking.Devin discusses common mistakes founders and professionals make—like becoming overly protective of their time—which can lead to a stagnant network. Instead, he suggests staying open and curious, reigniting existing relationships, and making intentional asks that go beyond searching for direct clients. He also explains how writing a book can serve as a powerful marketing tool and credibility builder, especially when paired with strategic networking efforts.To support entrepreneurs and professionals, Devin offers services like book writing through his Million Dollar Author program, strategic networking groups, and consulting. He closes the conversation by encouraging listeners to reconnect with their networks and explore new relationships. To learn more, visit devonsizemore.com.About Devin Sizemore:Driven by a passion for meaningful experiences, both personally and professionally, I have spent my career building and growing businesses that align with my values. From launching my first marketing agency right out of college to creating innovative consulting practices and a cat cafe, my journey has been defined by a commitment to "adding value" and making a positive impact. As a firm believer in the power of connections, I am dedicated to helping others succeed through the art of building relationships. The next chapter of his life is focused on fostering a community where one million connections can create lasting, transformative change.About Devin Sizemore Consulting:Devin Sizemore Consulting helps business owners navigate the unforeseen consequences of business success. By assessing and optimizing the 8 core pillars of life and business—Personal, Product, Pipeline, People, Process, Profit, Posterity, and Pack—Devin empowers entrepreneurs to build sustainable, balanced businesses that align with their personal values and long-term goals.As the latest evolution in a proven lineage of consulting brands—including Your Referral Partner, Powerhouse Consulting, 4505 Consulting, and Live Cageless—Devin Sizemore Consulting draws on years of experience, strategic insight, and a powerful network to guide business leaders through their next level of growth with clarity and confidence.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Devin Sizemore Consulting website at https://devinsizemore.com/Check out Devin Sizemore Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/devinsizemoreconsulting/Check out Devin Sizemore on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpsizemore/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!More 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.