The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Financial Clarity, Resilience, and Entrepreneurial Growth with Adam CallinanOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Adam Callinan, founder and CEO of Pentane and host of the podcast Growth Mavericks: Disrupting Default. In this insightful conversation, Adam shares a wealth of wisdom around financial management, mental resilience, and the power of simplifying complex business challenges. Entrepreneurs at every stage will find actionable takeaways to help strengthen both their businesses and their mindset.Building Resilience Through Mindfulness and RoutineAdam opens up about his personal mindfulness practice, sharing how Tibetan throat singing has helped him quiet his “monkey mind” and gain focus. By integrating daily meditation and regular screen-free activities like carpentry and hiking, Adam finds mental clarity and balance—essential tools for entrepreneurs facing constant decisions and stress. He encourages founders to create consistent routines, explore different mindfulness techniques, and carve out time to disconnect and reset.Financial Clarity and Simplifying Complexity with PentaneDrawing from his e-commerce success with BottleKeeper, Adam created Pentane to simplify financial management for consumer brands. The platform connects with accounting tools like QuickBooks and uses smart algorithms to help business owners understand their revenue, expenses, and profit drivers in real time. Adam emphasizes the importance of setting clear goals, conducting regular financial reviews, and making data-driven decisions—removing guesswork and emotion from financial planning to focus on what actually moves the needle.The Mission Behind Growth Mavericks and Leading with PurposeAdam’s podcast, Growth Mavericks: Disrupting Default, was born from a desire to normalize conversations around entrepreneurial struggle and success. He stresses that embracing failure, pushing past comfort zones, and building a trusted community are foundational to long-term growth. Whether through his tech company or podcast, Adam’s mission is clear: help entrepreneurs operate with more confidence, less confusion, and a lot more clarity.About Adam CallinanAdam Callinan is a seasoned entrepreneur, investor, and builder who co-founded BottleKeeper and took it from idea to over $50 million in sales with zero outside capital or full-time employees. He is currently the founder and CEO of Pentane, a platform designed to automate and simplify financial operations for early-stage consumer brands. Adam is also the host of the podcast Growth Mavericks: Disrupting Default, which you can explore at growthmaverickspodcast.com, and he is an investor in over 100 companies.About PentanePentane is a financial intelligence platform designed to help consumer brands clearly understand their profit metrics and make data-informed business decisions. By integrating with tools like QuickBooks and applying real-time analytics, Pentane empowers founders to simplify complex financials and stay on top of their performance with clarity and confidence.Links Mentioned in this EpisodePentane WebsiteAdam Callinan on LinkedInGrowth Mavericks PodcastEpisode HighlightsWhy Adam practices Tibetan throat singing and disconnects from tech for mental clarityHow Pentane helps consumer brands simplify financial decision-makingThe emotional toll of unclear financials and how data creates freedomBuilding resilience through failure, discomfort, and communityThe mission behind Growth Mavericks and normalizing the entrepreneurial journeyAdam Callinan’s perspective blends mindfulness with metrics—helping entrepreneurs simplify their finances while developing the resilience needed to lead. From building successful brands to launching tech with purpose, Adam shows that success doesn’t come from hustling harder—it comes from thinking clearer.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluenceWe 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!

Doug Hall on Innovation and Employee Engagement: A Modern Leadership FrameworkOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Doug Hall, founder of Eureka Ranch and co-founder of Dexter Bourbon Company. With nearly four decades of experience guiding innovation for top global brands, Doug shares a powerful perspective on how leaders can drive innovation through a proactive, engaged workforce. From launching disruptive ideas with Nike and Disney to transforming the work culture at his distillery, Doug’s approach emphasizes engaging every employee to build a system that thrives on innovation.Personal Growth, Innovation, and the Power of CuriosityDoug shares that every year, he selects a personal learning theme to stretch himself—this year, it’s learning the ukulele and perfecting artisan bread baking. These hobbies reflect his belief in continuous learning and expert mentorship, a mindset he also brings into his business ventures. Doug launched Eureka Ranch in his basement to help brands innovate and later developed Innovation Engineering to teach individuals how to invent and implement ideas from within their own organizations.Creating a Culture of Proactive Problem-SolvingDoug emphasizes that most wasted time in business stems from broken systems—not bad employees—and leaders must empower teams to identify and fix inefficiencies. At Dexter Bourbon Company, a frontline worker solved a daily struggle by voicing her challenge, leading to a simple fix and higher productivity. This approach is outlined in Doug’s book, Proactive Problem Solving (available on Amazon), which provides a clear framework for building engaged, solution-focused teams.Turning Engagement into Innovation and Competitive AdvantageDoug explains that modern employees crave purpose and clarity, and when leaders communicate the “why” behind tasks, teams become more motivated and committed. Proactive problem-solving creates a culture where employees drive innovation from the ground up, transforming organizations into agile, empowered environments that don’t just survive but lead.About Doug HallDoug Hall is the founder of Eureka Ranch and co-founder of Dexter Bourbon Company. He is the creator of Innovation Engineering and author of multiple books, including Proactive Problem Solving. Through his decades of work, Doug helps teams and leaders unlock creative thinking, drive growth, and build thriving innovation systems. Learn more at DougHall.com.About Eureka Ranch & Dexter Bourbon CompanyEureka Ranch trains teams and organizations in systematic innovation through its Innovation Engineering methodology, helping them create, communicate, and commercialize big ideas. Dexter Bourbon Company brings data-driven distilling and a culture of experimentation to the bourbon industry, emphasizing continuous improvement from production line to leadership.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeDoug Hall’s WebsiteEureka RanchDexter Bourbon CompanyBook: Proactive Problem Solving on AmazonEpisode HighlightsHow Doug uses hobbies like baking and music to fuel creative thinkingEureka Ranch’s shift from idea generation to innovation educationWhy solving broken systems improves engagement and performanceA real-world example of employee-led innovation at Dexter BourbonHow purpose-driven communication builds a high-performing cultureStorytelling, curiosity, and empowered teams are the foundation of innovation. Doug Hall’s practical strategies give leaders a clear path to building cultures that solve problems faster, engage employees deeper, and outpace the competition with confidence.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore from UpMyInfluenceWe 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!

Harnessing the Power of Storytelling in Business with Dr. Danny BrassellOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge chats with Dr. Danny Brassell, co-founder of The WellCrafted Workshop. Together, they explore how storytelling can fuel business growth, build authentic personal brands, and drive stronger audience engagement. Dr. Brassell shares his inspiring journey through journalism, education, and professional speaking—and explains why storytelling is at the heart of every successful communication strategy. Tune in to learn his signature "Five C’s" framework and how to use it to make your message memorable and impactful.Clarity and Connection: The First Steps to a Strong StoryDr. Brassell explains that every great story starts with clarity. Entrepreneurs often assume their message should appeal to everyone, but in truth, defining a specific audience and the exact problem you solve makes your message far more compelling. He also highlights the importance of connection through vulnerability. Sharing personal challenges—alongside wins—builds trust and relatability. Audiences don’t want perfection; they want to feel seen and understood. Your willingness to share failures can be your most powerful storytelling tool.Delivering Content That Engages and Inspires ActionOnce clarity and connection are established, your content needs to deliver real value. Dr. Brassell encourages storytellers to go beyond information-sharing—make your content engaging and educational. Every great story should also include a strong call to action. Be specific and direct. Guide your audience toward the next step—whether that’s attending a workshop, booking a call, or downloading a free resource. And don’t forget the close—a compelling conclusion that evokes emotion and reinforces your key message.Coaching Communicators and Inspiring Young ReadersBeyond speaking, Dr. Brassell now coaches professionals—from engineers in Silicon Valley to top corporate teams—helping them communicate with more confidence and clarity. His mission: transform presentations into meaningful conversations. He also recently published a new book, Misfits and Crackpots, created to uplift young readers with true stories of individuals who overcame obstacles to achieve extraordinary things. The book aims to offer a counterbalance to darker narratives in youth literature—giving kids role models who inspire and stories that spark hope.About Dr. Danny BrassellA highly sought-after speaker, trainer, and coach known as “Jim Carrey with a Ph.D.,” Dr. Danny Brassell (www.DannyBrassell.com) has spoken to over 3,500 audiences worldwide. He has authored 18 books, including Leadership Begins with Motivation and Misfits and Crackpots. As the co-founder of The WellCrafted Story Workshop™, Danny helps entrepreneurs, individuals, and organizations leverage speaking on stages as a major client lead source that converts.About The WellCrafted WorkshopThe WellCrafted Workshop provides coaching, workshops, and custom training programs to help professionals craft stories that connect, convert, and inspire. Their methodology is built to transform leaders into confident, clear communicators.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeDr. Danny Brassell on LinkedInThe WellCrafted WorkshopFree Storytelling Guide – freestoryguide.comDannyBrassell.comEpisode HighlightsThe “Five C’s” of effective storytelling: Clarity, Connection, Content, Call to Action, CloseWhy defining your audience is essential for messaging successThe role of vulnerability in creating deeper audience trustTurning complex topics into relatable, memorable storiesHelping professionals overcome public speaking anxietyStorytelling is more than a communication tool—it’s a strategic advantage. Dr. Danny Brassell shows that by mastering clarity, connection, and content, entrepreneurs can create messages that move people to action. Whether you’re giving a keynote or writing a blog, great storytelling can differentiate your brand and deepen your 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!

Unlocking Emotional Engagement with NeuromarketingIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Nicole Powell, CEO of HALCON Marketing Solutions, about the cutting-edge intersection of neuroscience, psychology, and marketing—better known as neuromarketing. Nicole shares how businesses can tap into the subconscious minds of their customers to build trust, connect emotionally, and ultimately improve their marketing performance.Josh opens the show by sharing a free video training based on insights from over 2,000 one-on-one conversations with business leaders. His methodology focuses on achieving 100% inbound marketing—without relying on ads, cold outreach, or spam—generating over eight figures in revenue.How Neuromarketing Drives Better Brand StrategyNicole Powell brings a deep understanding of brand strategy and neuromarketing, helping businesses align their messaging with the way the human brain actually makes decisions. By applying neuroscience to marketing tactics, Halcon Marketing Solutions identifies which emotional and psychological triggers influence customer behavior.Many of our decisions, Nicole explains, are made subconsciously. Neuromarketing allows businesses to reach those hidden decision-making drivers by examining emotional responses, often through advanced techniques like brain scans. The result? Messaging that resonates on a deeply human level.Storytelling, Empathy, and Trust: The Modern Marketing TrifectaAccording to Nicole, modern marketing success hinges on three key principles: emotional storytelling, personalization, and authenticity. Customers are constantly bombarded with content. To stand out, businesses must tell compelling stories that not only inform—but emotionally move—their audience.She also emphasizes the need for empathetic messaging. It’s not enough to talk about product features or surface-level benefits. Nicole urges brands to dig deeper and ask, "What are our customers really feeling or fearing?" This mindset helps marketers develop campaigns that speak to core human concerns and aspirations.From understanding the stress a physician may feel when relocating, to positioning a real estate agent as a supportive partner rather than a salesperson, Nicole shows how emotional alignment can make all the difference.About Nicole PowellNicole, a certified brand strategist and neuromarketer, is the founder of HALCON Marketing Solutions, an agency known for crafting compelling brands. She has over 16 years of experience at media giants like Disney, ESPN, and Fox Networks. Born in Manila and raised in the Bronx, Nicole now calls St. Louis home, balancing entrepreneurship with raising two toddlers. Blending instinct, creative flair, and neuromarketing expertise, she empowers businesses to thrive. Through her work, Nicole has been featured in various major media publications such as USA Today, CEO Weekly, Yahoo Finance and even on KMOV's Great Day St. Louis, while being a known speaker at events such as the STL TechWeek.About HALCON Marketing SolutionsHALCON Marketing Solutions is a boutique marketing agency that combines data-driven strategy with neuroscience-informed techniques. Their unique approach helps brands build trust, establish emotional connections, and increase engagement through custom branding and strategic storytelling.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Nicole Powell on LinkedInHALCON Marketing Solutions WebsiteEpisode Highlights:How neuromarketing blends neuroscience and marketing to influence customer behaviorWhy emotional storytelling is the key to memorable, high-impact marketingThe importance of understanding deep emotional drivers behind consumer decisionsHow to personalize marketing messages without sacrificing authenticityPractical examples of using empathy to build trust and loyaltyThis conversation with Nicole Powell is a masterclass in understanding the human brain's role in marketing. By using the power of neuromarketing, storytelling, and emotional alignment, businesses can unlock deeper relationships with their audience and drive long-term success. Nicole reminds us that effective marketing isn’t about being louder—it’s about being felt.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 Power of Public Relations and PodcastingIn a recent podcast episode, host Josh Elledge engages with Larissa Banting, owner of El Bee PR, to explore the transformative role of public relations (PR) in business growth, especially through podcasting. With a rich background in the entertainment industry, Larissa shares her insights on how effective PR strategies can lead to significant outcomes for clients. This discussion breaks down key themes and actionable advice, offering a comprehensive guide for listeners looking to leverage PR and podcasting for their business.Josh introduces Larissa, highlighting her extensive experience in PR since 1993 and her unique blend of expertise in both public relations and the entertainment sector. The conversation delves into the nuances of PR, emphasizing its critical role in business success. Larissa elaborates on her agency's bespoke publicity approach, focusing on compelling stories and hooks to engage audiences effectively. She shares a success story of a client who gained 1,000 new subscribers after appearing on a niche podcast, illustrating the potential of podcasts to create lasting connections with audiences.The episode also covers managing expectations in podcast PR, with Larissa advising clients to focus on the quality of the audience rather than the size of the podcast. She introduces her "30 and Three" program, which aims to secure 30 podcast appearances for clients within three months, focusing on top-tier podcasts. The conversation shifts to leveraging podcast appearances by repurposing content for social media, blogs, and email marketing, and building a media footprint to enhance credibility and authority. Larissa concludes by emphasizing the significance of PR and podcasting in today’s business landscape, encouraging listeners to explore her services to harness these tools for business growth.About Larissa Banting: After a career as a professional dancer, Larissa Banting turned her creativity to marketing and public relations. One of only a handful of professionals to be Accredited by the Canadian Public Relations Society, her past clients include The City of St. Albert, Bombay Sapphire Gin, the Northern Alberta International Children's Festival, Nelvana, CBC and CTV networks. Since opening her boutique publicity agency, El Bee PR, Larissa and team have helped create a buzz about her clients, including SudShare and numerous entrepreneurs and solopreneurs. Other notable highlights from Larissa’s unconventional life include moving to Costa Rica and opening one of the first wedding planning firms in Central America, being named Top 30 Destination Wedding Planners in the World and writing the best-selling Costa Rica - The Bradt Guide.About El Bee PR:El Bee PR is a small but mighty agency of talented international PR professionals that, like its namesake, punches far above its weight class (* fun fact - a bee can exert a strength equivalent to 122 times its weight).The agency offers the results of a large agency without the bloat, bureaucracy, and big monthly bills. El Bee PR is nimble and passionate about what it does – making its clients industry leaders.El Bee PR is a hive of activity, centered on creating a buzz about its clients to produce sweet results via greater authority, visibility, credibility, and profitability.What makes El Bee PR different is its experience, creativity, mad writing skills, and its network of media connections.El Bee PR guarantees a 10X ROI on its services. No other agency offers any guarantee like this...except El Bee PR, because the agency is confident it can deliver.El Bee PR offers Strategic Publicity for Profit, with a mix of niche and industry-specific outlets combined with top-tier media for a balance of getting in front of clients while positioning them as a credible authority.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 El Bee PR website at https://elbeepr.com/Check out El Bee PR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/el-bee-pr/Check out Larissa Banting's website at https://www.larissabanting.com/Check out Larissa Banting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/larissabanting/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.

Discovering the Key to Consistent Profits: Why Memberships Represent the Future of ConsultingIn a recent podcast episode, we had the privilege of hosting Stu McLaren, a leading expert in membership models and co-founder of Membership.io. Stu, who authored "Predictable Profits: Transform Your Business from One-Off Sales to Recurring Revenue with Memberships and Subscriptions," shared insights on the transformative power of recurring revenue through memberships and subscriptions, especially for consultants and service providers. The discussion highlighted how creating a stable and predictable income stream through memberships can enhance business models for skilled professionals.Stu recounted his journey from running a successful consultancy to embracing the membership model. He faced challenges in his consultancy, particularly the stress and uncertainty of relying on one-off client engagements. Realizing that his business model was unsustainable, as it limited growth and work-life balance, Stu transitioned to a membership model. This shift allowed him to build a predictable and stable income, reducing stress and enabling better planning and growth opportunities. He emphasized the importance of creating personalized experiences for members, focusing on their unique needs and goals.The episode also addressed common concerns about launching a membership model, such as maintaining quality and integrity. Stu reassured listeners that these concerns are common and encouraged viewing the membership model as an opportunity to enhance impact. The conversation highlighted advancements in technology that facilitate personalized member experiences and shared real-world success stories, like Jennifer Chamberlain and Scott and Ryan, who achieved significant growth through memberships. The episode concluded with actionable steps for consultants and service providers to transform their business models, leveraging Stu's expertise and insights to create sustainable, recurring revenue streams.About Stu McLaren:Since 2008, I've been working intimately with tens of thousands of authors, speakers, coaches, consultants and business owners to transform what they already know, love and do into recurring revenue by launching, growing and scaling 6, 7 and 8-figure membership businesses. Membership and subscription is the business model of the future and I am uniquely positioned to show you how to do it successfully. Here's why... As the former co-founder of the world’s leading membership platform for WordPress, WishList Member, and now creator of the Membership Experience and Membership.io, I have a unique behind-the-scenes perspective of what works in membership and subscription markets - and I've been doing it in virtually every market you can think of. From photography and calligraphy to dog training, fitness, music, health, meal plans, teacher plans, non-profit, personal development, business development and so many more! And through it all, I have discovered the subtle nuances that make a BIG difference in the success of the sites that thrive year over year versus those that struggle and stall.About Membership.io:Membership.io is a dedicated platform designed to help you start and grow your membership site with ease. Formerly known as Searchie, the platform offers everything you need to manage and deliver your content and community in one seamless solution. Membership.io takes the work out of content management, allowing you to focus on what you do best—creating valuable content for your members.Trusted by a wide range of professionals, including membership site owners, digital course creators, podcasters, marketers, and designers, Membership.io simplifies video management, automates workflows, and offers powerful search capabilities. With features like modern video delivery, automated transcriptions, and real-time customer insights, the platform enhances accessibility, boosts engagement, and provides detailed analytics, all while keeping your content secure. Whether you want to keep your content private or share it publicly, Membership.io has the tools you need to build a thriving membership 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 Stu McLaren website at https://stu.me/Check out Stu McLaren on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/stumclaren/Check out Membership.io website at https://membership.io/Check out Membership.io on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/membership-io/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.

Navigating Business Disputes: Insights on Preventative Measures and Clear AgreementsIn a recent podcast episode, Margeaux Thomas, the founder and principal attorney of the Thomas Law Office in Fairfax County, shared her expertise. Specializing in representing business owners in disputes with partners, clients, and vendors, Margeaux provided valuable insights into navigating these challenges. Her focus on preventative measures and clear agreements in business relationships offered listeners actionable advice. This blog post explores the key themes discussed in the episode, providing detailed guidance for business owners.The episode opens with the host encouraging listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience in the business world, having engaged in private conversations with over 2,000 leaders, he introduces Margeaux Thomas with enthusiasm. Before delving into the legal aspects of business, the host inquires about Margeaux's recent musical interests. Margeaux shares that she is more of a reader than a music enthusiast, with a preference for old-school R&B. She mentions her involvement in a book club, currently reading "The Swimmers," a book that resonates with her as a competitive swimmer.As the conversation shifts to its core, the host invites Margeaux to explain her work at the Thomas Law Office. Margeaux describes her firm’s focus on representing business owners, particularly in "business divorces." Acknowledging that many listeners may not currently face disputes, the discussion turns to preventative measures. Margeaux outlines several best practices to help business owners avoid conflicts, such as drafting clear operating agreements, designating a deadlock breaker, and ensuring shared access to business resources. The episode concludes with the host expressing gratitude for Margeaux's insights and contributions, encouraging listeners to utilize the resources offered by her firm and to consider the benefits of preventative legal measures in their own businesses.About Margeaux Thomas:Margeaux Thomas is a highly experienced attorney with over 15 years of expertise in complex commercial and real estate litigation, representing clients in Virginia, Maryland, and the District of Columbia. She specializes in commercial landlord/tenant disputes, business partnership disputes, and various contract issues. Margeaux is also dedicated to promoting diversity and inclusion, having educated over 4,000 attorneys and contributed to leading legal publications.In addition to running the Thomas Law Office, Margeaux serves on several prominent boards, including the Old Dominion Bar Association and the Fairfax Bar Association Continuing Legal Education Committee. She is also the founder of Vegetable Forward, LLC, which focuses on educating children about nutrition through community gardens. Recognized as a Super Lawyers – Rising Star and a Top Lawyer by Northern Virginia Magazine, Margeaux enjoys spending time with her family and pursuing her passions for cooking and gardening.About Thomas Law Office:Thomas Law Office, PLC is a distinguished law firm located in Fairfax, VA, specializing in business and real estate litigation. With a team of experienced attorneys, the firm provides expert legal services in areas such as non-solicitation and non-compete agreements, breach of contract disputes, and commercial landlord/tenant issues. Known for their professional achievements and commitment to excellence, the attorneys at Thomas Law Office are dedicated to providing strategic and effective solutions for businesses and individuals. Their deep understanding of local and regional law allows them to effectively navigate complex legal challenges, ensuring clients receive the best possible outcomes in every case.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 Thomas Law Office, PLC website at https://thomaslawplc.com/Check out Thomas Law Office, PLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-thomas-law-office-plc/Check out Margeaux Thomas on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/margeaux-thomas-22a25261/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.

Mastering Entrepreneurship Through PodcastingIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge engages in a compelling conversation with Elzie Flenard, the "mayor of podcast town" and host of the "Journey to Mastery" podcast. Elzie specializes in helping B2B business owners leverage podcasting to grow their businesses and build meaningful relationships. He also discusses his book, "Flame Starter: The Art of Self-Mastery," which focuses on personal development and strategies to prevent burnout in the entrepreneurial journey.Elzie emphasizes that podcasting is not just a marketing tool but a platform for building authentic relationships. By consistently sharing valuable content, entrepreneurs can establish authority, engage with their audience, and network with industry leaders. He also shares practical tips for starting a podcast, such as defining your niche, investing in quality equipment, and promoting your podcast through social media and collaborations. Additionally, Elzie highlights the importance of recognizing personal triggers that lead to burnout and offers strategies like setting boundaries, prioritizing self-care, and seeking support to maintain balance and well-being.The episode underscores the importance of self-mastery for entrepreneurs, with Elzie’s book offering insights into personal development and continuous learning. Key takeaways include self-discovery, goal setting, and developing resilience. Josh and Elzie also discuss finding joy in the entrepreneurial journey by celebrating small wins, documenting experiences, and building a supportive community. For more inspiration and practical advice, listeners are encouraged to check out Elzie’s podcast, "Journey to Mastery," and his book, "Flame Starter: The Art of Self-Mastery," while subscribing to "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" for ongoing motivation and insights.About Elzie Flenard:Elzie D. Flenard, III, also known as "The Mayor," is an entrepreneur, creative thinker, and dedicated family man with a passion for sparking entrepreneurship in others. As the founder of Podcast Town and author of Flame Starter, Elzie has used his diverse career experiences, from janitor to operations manager, to build a unique approach to business and leadership.He is the host of the Enterprise NOW! podcast, where he shares insights from global thought leaders with aspiring entrepreneurs. Elzie also brings his creativity to music, having written, produced, and released around 20 songs. A devoted husband and father, Elzie is committed to changing lives through enterprise, using the EMIT Principle (Education x Motivation x Inspiration = Transformation) to help entrepreneurs reach their full potential.About Journey To Mastery Podcast:Journey to Mastery is the podcast for purpose-driven entrepreneurs ready to unlock their full potential. Hosted by Elzie Flenard III, this show dives deep into the Four Pillars of Mastery—Me, Mission, Message, and Method—offering practical tools, personal growth strategies, and faith-driven insights to help you master yourself and your purpose. Through actionable advice and inspiring real-world stories, each episode empowers you to break through barriers, build meaningful habits, and align your life and business with your mission.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 Elzie Flenard website at https://www.elzieflenard.com/Check out Elzie Flenard on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/elzieflenardiii/Check out Journey to Mastery on Apple Podcast at https://apple.co/3r4OckzDon’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.

Embrace the AI Revolution: Creating Genuine Connections for Lasting Business GrowthIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge engages in a compelling conversation with Grady Teske, the founder and CEO of Rising Tides. They explore the intricacies of entrepreneurship, business scaling, and the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in marketing. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help entrepreneurs navigate the evolving landscape of business growth.Grady shares his extensive background as a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) and his experience in launching over 240 businesses. With nearly a decade of experience in building multinational subsidiaries, particularly with Asian-based manufacturers, Grady's expertise lies in creating robust systems that drive business growth. Rising Tides focuses on helping companies identify their core functions and products while fostering meaningful conversations with their audiences. Grady notes that the current marketing landscape is oversaturated with content, particularly on major social media platforms. Instead, businesses should focus on direct outreach, leveraging email and other communication channels to build relationships.Josh and Grady discuss the significance of relationships in business, noting that lazy marketing tactics often lead to missed opportunities. Successful leaders invest time in building relationships, which ultimately leads to less effort in generating business. AI can enhance outreach efforts by analyzing human behavior and identifying where potential clients are most active, allowing businesses to tailor their conversations and engage with prospects in a more personalized manner. As the episode wraps up, Josh and Grady reflect on the importance of building relationships and creating value in business. They discuss the evolving landscape of marketing and the role of AI in facilitating meaningful conversations, providing valuable takeaways for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses effectively.About Grady Teske:Grady Teske is the founder and CEO of Rising Tides, a marketing agency focused on building automated growth and revenue engines for SaaS founders. With over a decade of experience as a fractional executive and over 230 startup collaborations, Grady has developed systems that drive consistent growth through marketing automation and elite content teams. He specializes in helping businesses reduce reliance on sales, create strategic launches, and take control of their revenue by developing killer offers and refining their brand identity.About Rising Tides:Rising Tides is a marketing agency that specializes in building automated go-to-market engines to reliably scale user acquisition and revenue. Their expert team aligns your ideal customer with a seamless AI-managed user journey, using no-code integrations. Rising Tides’ content team crafts compelling visual, copy, and video creatives that clearly communicate the value of your product. Through their paid acquisition services, they help scale quickly to meet your objectives. Additionally, they support businesses by training in-house teams to manage and maintain their acquisition engines. Rising Tides offers a comprehensive go-to-market team on a flexible, budget-friendly monthly subscription, with no long-term commitments and satisfaction guaranteed. You own the technology, giving you full control.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 Rising Tides website at https://risingtides.io/Check out Rising Tides on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/therisingtide/Check out Grady Teske on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/grady-teske/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.

Navigating the Future of Software DevelopmentIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews David Hirschfeld, Founder & CEO of Tekyz, a custom software development company. David shares his journey from woodworking and metalworking to software development, highlighting how his hands-on approach influences his creative work. The conversation explores the impact of AI and automation on the software industry, emphasizing the importance of adapting quickly to new tools and leveraging AI to improve efficiency.David discusses recent projects, including an AI-driven nurse application and referral partner network software, showcasing how AI can streamline business processes and enhance healthcare. He stresses the value of understanding client needs through exploratory conversations and market research to ensure the development of unique, impactful solutions.The episode wraps up with actionable advice on embracing AI tools to boost productivity and focusing on transparent communication and thorough planning to ensure successful project outcomes. David’s insights offer valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and tech professionals navigating the evolving software landscape.About David Hirschfeld:David Hirschfeld is a 35-year software development veteran with a unique perspective on technological innovation and business growth. A former physics student from UCLA, David's career spans leadership roles at tech giants like Computer Associates, Texas Instruments, Intel, and Motorola, before launching his first startup—which grew to 800 customers across 22 countries and was successfully sold in 2000. Since founding Tekyz Inc. in 2007, David has emerged as a strategic advisor specializing in AI-driven workflow transformation for scaleups and in the design & development of startups. Having collaborated with over 70 startups, he developed the Launch 1st Method—a systematic approach that minimizes risks and accelerates software company success with reduced reliance on investor funding. David's expertise bridges cutting-edge AI technologies, workflow optimization, and startup ecosystem dynamics. When not transforming business strategies, he enjoys woodworking, golfing, and drawing leadership insights from his experience raising four successful sons.About Tekyz:Tekyz is a custom software development company specializing in creating innovative, data-driven solutions for startups and scale-ups. With a focus on delivering high-quality, scalable software, Tekyz helps businesses streamline operations, enhance efficiency, and drive growth. The company offers end-to-end software development services, including product design, development, and ongoing support, with expertise in AI, automation, and cutting-edge technologies. Tekyz is committed to understanding each client’s unique needs, ensuring tailored solutions that align with their goals and deliver measurable results. By leveraging the latest technologies and a client-centric approach, Tekyz empowers businesses to navigate the challenges of the modern tech landscape and achieve sustainable 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 Tekyz website at https://tekyz.com/Check out Tekyz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tekyz-inc/Check out David Hirschfeld on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dhirschfeld/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.