The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Navigating the World of Venture Capital and GamingIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," the host engages in a compelling conversation with Alisa Lynn, the managing partner at SKL.vc. With over 20 years of experience in the entrepreneurial landscape, particularly in the gaming industry, Alisa shares her journey, insights into venture capital, and the evolving landscape of technology and AI. This blog post delves into the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for aspiring entrepreneurs and investors.Alisa Lynn, currently residing in the picturesque Canary Islands, has a rich background in gaming, having been introduced to the industry at a young age. Her passion for gaming led her to establish several companies, achieving three successful exits along the way. Now, as a venture capitalist, she manages SKL.vc, a venture studio that not only invests in startups but also builds them in-house. Alisa provides valuable insights into the gaming industry, likening it to other content-driven sectors such as film and entertainment. She discusses high barriers to entry, industry consolidation, and the need for content diversity, highlighting both challenges and opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs alike.The episode concludes with the host thanking Alisa for her insights and encouraging listeners to connect with her and SKL.vc through their website and social media channels. The conversation highlights the importance of adaptability, collaboration, and innovation in the ever-evolving world of startups and venture capital. Listeners are left with a sense of inspiration and motivation to pursue their entrepreneurial dreams, armed with valuable advice from a seasoned expert in the field. Whether you're an aspiring founder or an investor, the insights shared by Alisa Lynn offer a roadmap to navigating the complex and exciting world of venture capital and gaming.About Alisa Lynn:Alisa Lynn (Chumachenko) is a serial tech entrepreneur and VC, managing partner of venture builder SKL.vc She is listed in the top 30 women who changed the IT industry according to TechCrunch and in the list of Europe's Top 50 Women in Technology by Forbes. Founder of Game Insight, pioneer in mobile development, a successful game publisher in Europe, and GOSU Data Lab. One of the most influential women in IT and venture world.About SKL.vc:SKL.vc is a venture studio led by a team of serial entrepreneurs and seasoned executives, dedicated to helping innovative startups scale and succeed. The studio transforms bold ideas into data-driven products that excel both locally and globally. SKL.vc focuses on discovering, supporting, and fast-tracking startups that are shaping the future, particularly in industries such as Video & Music Creation, Healthcare, MedTech, Entertainment, AI Co-pilots & Agents, Digital Avatars, Computer Vision, Hobbies, Lifestyle, and FinTech.At SKL.vc, the approach goes beyond investment; they become active co-founders of their partner startups. The venture studio offers comprehensive support, including financial security through competitive salaries and equity stakes, as well as full operational support from their expert team. SKL.vc minimizes risks by providing strategic guidance, data-driven methodologies, and valuable VC connections to fuel startup growth.SKL.vc partners with startups every step of the way, from raw ideas to market-ready products, ensuring their ventures have the expertise and resources needed to succeed. With SKL.vc, entrepreneurs gain not just an investor or mentor, but a true business partner.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 SKL.vc website at https://skl.vc/Check out SKL.vc on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sklvc/Check out Alisa Lynn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnalisa/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 Importance of Messaging Platforms in Business CommunicationIn a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, the host engaged in a compelling conversation with Gerardo Salandra, the founder and CEO of respond.io. The discussion revolved around the transformative role of messaging platforms in business communication, particularly in the context of B2C (business-to-consumer) interactions. This blog post delves into the key insights shared during the episode, offering actionable advice and expert recommendations for businesses looking to enhance their communication strategies.Gerardo Salandra introduced respond.io as a cutting-edge software solution designed to help businesses communicate with consumers through popular messaging platforms such as WhatsApp, Facebook Messenger, and TikTok. Established eight years ago, respond.io has navigated the challenges of a nascent market to become a leader in the field, enabling businesses to engage with customers on the platforms they prefer. The conversation highlighted a significant shift from traditional communication methods like phone calls and emails to modern messaging apps. Gerardo emphasized that businesses, especially those in the B2C sector, must adapt to these changes to meet customer expectations and stay competitive.One of the critical takeaways from the episode is the importance of meeting customers on the platforms they already use. Gerardo shared insights on how businesses can leverage messaging platforms to create personalized and engaging customer experiences. He provided a forward-looking perspective on the future of messaging platforms, noting that the landscape varies significantly by region. As the episode neared its conclusion, Gerardo shared insights into respond.io's growth in the enterprise sector, explaining that the company initially focused on product-led growth but has since expanded to target mid-market and enterprise clients. This episode serves as a valuable resource for business owners looking to navigate the evolving landscape of communication and leverage messaging platforms to foster stronger connections with their customers.About Gerardo Salandra:Gerardo Salandra is the CEO and co-founder of respond.io, a leading business messaging platform in Asia. With a background at IBM, Google, and Runtastic, he has developed deep expertise in artificial intelligence and growth hacking. As the former Head of Growth at NDN Group, he led automation initiatives for several Fortune 500 companies and currently co-chairs the AI Society of Hong Kong. In 2017, he and his co-founders identified a gap in the market for businesses to effectively engage with customers on messaging apps. This led to the launch of respond.io, an AI-driven conversation management platform designed to bridge that gap. Today, respond.io generates $10M in ARR and supports over 10,000 brands across 85+ countries, including McDonald's, Toyota, and British Airways, helping them streamline communication and achieve their business goals. Salandra is a two-time Forbes 30 Under 30 recipient, a sought-after TEDx speaker, and an Alibaba Cloud MVP, recognized for his contributions to cloud computing and AI. He holds an MBA from the Chinese University of Hong Kong and a Bachelor of Science from Reutlingen University in Germany.About respond.io:Respond.io is an AI-powered platform that helps businesses maximize leads and enable sales over chat. By leveraging every conversation as an opportunity for business growth, the platform empowers over 10,000 brands across the globe to seize those opportunities faster. In 2022, respond.io raised $7 million in Series A funding, led by Headline Asia with participation from AltaIR Capital, Smart Partnership Capital, Sterling Oak Group and Calendula Ventures. From its headquarters in Malaysia, respond.io continues to innovate and advance the future of customer conversations.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 respond.io website at https://respond.io/Check out respond.io on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/respondio/Check out Gerardo Salandra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerardosalandra/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.

Empowering Women Entrepreneurs: Insights from Jenna Capozzi on The Thoughtful EntrepreneurIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge engages in a dynamic conversation with Jenna Capozzi, a seasoned marketing and advertisement consultant. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for women entrepreneurs, particularly those aged 35 and older, who are navigating significant career transitions. Jenna's journey from a corporate background to becoming a consultant for women in business is both inspiring and relatable. The host emphasizes the significance of networking and building connections in the business world, offering a free video resource to help listeners enhance their inbound marketing strategies and generate high-ticket sales appointments without relying on spam, ads, or aggressive sales tactics.Jenna Capozzi introduces herself and her mission to empower women who are at a crossroads in their careers. She focuses on women who have spent years in corporate roles or have started their own businesses but are now ready to take the next step. Jenna's work includes retreats, events, coaching, and her podcast, all aimed at helping women navigate their entrepreneurial journeys. One of the key themes of the episode is the insecurity and perfectionism that many women face when transitioning to entrepreneurship. Jenna expresses her surprise at the level of insecurity she encounters among women executives who have been successful in their careers, noting that branching out on their own often brings about feelings of self-doubt and the pressure to be perfect.The conversation also delves into the balance between striving for perfection and maintaining a strong brand identity. Jenna argues that many people misunderstand what a brand truly represents, explaining that a brand is not merely about aesthetics—logos and colors—but rather about the essence of the individual and their message. Jenna shares details about her offerings, which include retreats, events, and an online community designed to support women entrepreneurs. As the episode wraps up, Jenna invites listeners to connect with her through her website, where they can access valuable resources and join her community. She emphasizes her commitment to helping women expand their businesses and become effective leaders, encouraging everyone to take action, embrace their unique perspectives, and support one another in their entrepreneurial journeys.About Jenna Capozzi:Jenna Capozzi is a veteran creative producer and award-winning marketing strategist with over 30 years of experience scaling brands and building loyal audiences through compelling content and strategic positioning. Her career began in Hollywood, where she worked on iconic feature films such as White Men Can’t Jump, Bullets Over Broadway, and projects at Pixar Animation Studios. She later brought her storytelling acumen to prime-time television, contributing to hit shows like Nash Bridges and The District, and played an integral creative role on several Oscar-winning productions.As the founder of Capozzi Productions, Jenna spent over a decade producing high-performing brand films and content for major companies like Target, BMW, and Samsung—earning multiple Addy and Telly Awards along the way. Her company became the go-to partner for mid-sized brands in the $5M–$20M range—organizations that couldn’t afford bloated agency retainers but needed results. Through content rooted in strategy and audience methodology, she helped clients 3–5X their growth by building organic engagement and long-term brand equity.Today, Jenna is known not just for creative execution, but for her strategic insight. As a brand strategist, she helps companies define the mission, vision, and core values that drive real growth. Her approach starts with clarity—identifying the right audience to serve, crafting messaging that resonates, and building marketing systems that deliver revenue, not just likesNow the founder of ELEV8PWR, Jenna leads a business education platform and community that mentors entrepreneurs in developing standout offers, scalable brands, and powerful content strategies. Her clients credit her with helping them unlock clarity, confidence, and cash flow through brand alignment and marketing that actually works.If you're looking to scale with precision, cut through the noise, and lead your category—Jenna Capozzi brings the creative horsepower and strategic vision to get you there.About ELEV8PWR:ELEV8PWR is a coaching and community platform founded by Jenna Capozzi, designed to empower women entrepreneurs to lead with confidence, clarity, and purpose. With over 30 years of experience in creative production and marketing, including work with global brands like Samsung, BMW, and Target, Jenna transitioned from Hollywood and advertising to focus on mentoring women over 40 who are seeking reinvention and growth in their businesses.ELEV8PWR offers various programs, including the Maverick Community, which provides daily access to Jenna and her team via Slack, live Q&A sessions, and a library of courses covering topics like building online courses, creating surveys, and financial forecasting. The platform emphasizes collaboration, strategic marketing, and building scalable brands.Additionally, ELEV8PWR hosts retreats and masterminds that combine business strategy with personal development, aiming to help women entrepreneurs achieve their goals and create meaningful lives. Through ELEV8PWR, Jenna Capozzi continues her mission to support women in business, providing them with the tools and community to succeed and make a significant impact.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 Jenna Capozzi website at https://www.jennacapozzi.com/homeCheck out ELEV8PWR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elev8pwr/Check out Jenna Capozzi on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennacapozzi/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.

Leveraging Traditional Media for Small Business SuccessIn the dynamic world of digital marketing, the role of traditional media, especially local television, is often debated. However, Michelle Rupp, founder and CEO of Memorable Results Media, highlights its enduring power for small and medium-sized businesses in a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. With over two decades of experience as an Emmy Award-winning broadcast journalist, Michelle provides valuable insights into how businesses can utilize local media to boost their visibility and credibility.Michelle emphasizes the continued relevance of traditional media by pointing out its broad reach, credibility, and the ability to repurpose content across platforms. She advises businesses to identify local media outlets, build relationships with journalists, and craft compelling pitches to gain media coverage. Furthermore, Michelle distinguishes between PR for visibility and PR for authority, encouraging businesses to leverage local media to establish themselves as industry thought leaders.The episode also delves into the art of storytelling, with Michelle stressing the importance of crafting a compelling narrative that highlights a business's unique aspects and provides value to the audience. She offers actionable tips, such as identifying your story, aligning it with business goals, and practicing your pitch. Michelle also shares resources available through Memorable Results Media, including guides on writing press releases and complimentary calls to discuss media strategies. By following these insights, businesses can effectively harness traditional media to enhance their growth and recognition.About Michelle Rupp:Michelle Rupp, EMMY Award winning broadcast journalist, is the Founder and CEO of Memorable Results Media, a boutique agency dedicated to helping small and medium-sized businesses gain earned media coverage on local and regional television. With a background in news production and a passion for empowering business owners, Michelle uses her 25 years of experience in broadcasting to deliver tangible results. Her clients frequently see increased revenue, sold-out events and elevated visibility in their communities, with many attributing significant business growth to her media strategies.Michelle grew up in a family that owned a small hardware store, where she witnessed firsthand the challenges small businesses face when competing against larger corporations. This experience, coupled with her years as a journalist and corporate PR strategist, ignited her desire to help business owners maximize their potential through media exposure and crisis communication preparedness. Michelle has earned a reputation as a thought leader in the field of PR and Crisis Communications. Today, Michelle combines her unique insight and proven methods to guide her clients in leveraging local media, social media, and community connections to increase sales and create impact. A heart disease survivor and accomplished marathon runner, Michelle's resilience shines through in all aspects of her life. Her belief in the power of television as an indispensable tool for making an impact led her to televise her heart surgery. With accolades including an EMMY and an Edward R. Murrow Award, she continues to inspire through her work and her story. About Memorable Results Media:Memorable Results Media is a communications, public relations, and business promotion boutique business increasing the visibility of small businesses and nonprofits so they can increase their revenue.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 Memorable Results Media website at https://www.memorableresultsmedia.com/Check out Memorable Results Media on LinkedIn at https://www.instagram.com/memorableresultsmedia/Check out Michelle Rupp on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-rupp-96ab588/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.

Business Consulting and Operational Efficiency: Insights from La Tonya RobertsIn the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting La Tonya Roberts, a seasoned fractional CEO, HR consultant, executive coach, and the founder of Harmony Consulting Group. La Tonya shared her wealth of knowledge on business consulting, operational efficiency, and the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs, particularly those in leadership roles. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and expert insights to help you streamline your operations and enhance productivity.La Tonya Roberts brings a rich background in management consulting, having worked with top firms like Booz Allen and Deloitte, and experience in over 30 countries. Her firm, Harmony Consulting Group, specializes in providing fractional COO and HR consulting services, along with executive coaching. La Tonya's primary focus is on helping female service providers streamline their operations and avoid burnout. Key services offered by Harmony Consulting Group include fractional COO services, HR consulting, and executive coaching, all aimed at optimizing business operations and enhancing leadership skills.The conversation also explored the use of AI tools to enhance productivity. La Tonya shared her enthusiasm for AI and provided practical advice on how to integrate these tools into your business operations. She highlighted the importance of conducting an AI audit to identify repetitive tasks and using AI for brainstorming and data analysis. Additionally, she emphasized the value of integrating various tools to create a seamless workflow, suggesting platforms like Zapier or Make to connect different applications. As the episode concluded, La Tonya shared valuable resources available on her website, Harmony Consulting Group, including an upcoming "Operations Gold Mine Checklist" designed to help entrepreneurs assess their operational health and identify areas for improvement.About La Tonya Roberts:La Tonya Roberts transforms fledgling organizations into high-performing businesses as a Fractional COO and HR Consultant. Drawing from 18 years of experience across 30 countries, she helps companies scale operations, build inclusive cultures, and develop leadership teams that drive growth. Her practical insights on operational excellence and team building make her an engaging guest for audiences seeking actionable strategies for business success.About Harmony Consulting Group:Harmony Consulting Group is a global management consulting and executive coaching firm that partners with female consultants and coaches to streamline their operations and achieve sustainable growth, providing the support of a full-time COO without the overhead. The firm applies a holistic approach to client support, offering comprehensive Human Capital strategies, including Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, Corporate Wellness, and Learning and Development. Additionally, Harmony Consulting Group delivers business solutions such as Human-Centered Change Management, Strategic Planning, Facilitation, and Coaching to empower clients in achieving operational excellence and long-term 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 Harmony Consulting Group website at https://www.harmonyconsultinggroup.org/Check out Harmony Consulting Group on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/harmony-consulting-group/Check out La Tonya Roberts on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/la-tonya-roberts/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.

Redefining Leadership: The Influence of Feminine Qualities on Business PracticesIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages with Elina Teboul, author of "Feminine Intelligence: How Visionary Leaders Can Reshape Business for Good." The discussion centers on integrating feminine traits in leadership, emphasizing empathy, interconnection, and conscious leadership. Josh introduces the episode by sharing his experience with over 2,000 leaders and promoting a free video class on achieving 100% inbound business without aggressive tactics. Elina, a keynote speaker and leadership advisor, expresses her excitement about her book and the themes of feminine intelligence.The conversation takes a light-hearted turn as Josh inquires about Elina's personal interests. Elina shares her fascination with the longevity space and her passion for dancing, which makes her feel like the best version of herself. This leads to a discussion on feminine intelligence, where Elina clarifies that it is not about gender but embodying qualities traditionally associated with the feminine archetype. She highlights empathy, interconnection, and conscious leadership as key traits, encouraging leaders to embrace these qualities for more effective leadership.Elina and Josh explore the application of feminine intelligence in sales, emphasizing the balance between action-oriented and introspective approaches. Elina provides actionable tips for sales professionals, such as reflecting on motivations and building authentic relationships. The episode concludes with a call to action, encouraging listeners to explore Elina's book and integrate empathy, connection, and authenticity into their leadership styles. By embracing feminine intelligence, leaders can create more fulfilling and successful organizations, fostering meaningful relationships and positive impacts in the world.About Elina Teboul:Elina Teboul is a leadership expert who coaches influential leaders worldwide. With advanced degrees in psychology and law, she specializes in leadership development, having designed and led peer coaching programs and transformative workshops for senior executives. Elina helps leaders navigate challenges, cultivate authenticity, and lead with congruence and purpose. A passionate philanthropist, she previously served as the global philanthropic advisor at the Allan & Gill Gray Foundation and is currently on the Advisory Board of the Earth Law Center, advocating for innovative approaches to environmental stewardship.About "Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good" Book:Feminine intelligence is the key to running some of the world’s most successful companies ― with greater joy, authenticity, purpose and profit.Drawing on exclusive interviews with billionaire philanthropists, unicorn founders, and happiness pioneers, Feminine Intelligence uncovers the most powerful, often-overlooked traits that are driving the future of business. Through vivid storytelling and insightful research, it is clear that the future of leadership lies in embracing feminine strengths.Whether you’re leading a global enterprise or navigating the early stages of your career, Feminine Intelligence serves as a powerful guide for you to unlock a newfound wholeness. It will optimize your decision-making, expand your vision, fuel your creative genius, and empower you to reshape capitalism with love, compassion, and consciousness.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 Elina Teboul's website at https://elinateboul.com/Check out Elina Teboul on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/elinateboul/Check out on "Feminine Intelligence: How visionary leaders can reshape business for good" Book at https://feminineintelligencebook.com/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 Importance of Accessibility in BusinessIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, the host engages in a profound conversation with Erin Perkins, the founder and CEO of Mabely Q. The episode delves into the critical topic of accessibility for individuals with disabilities, particularly in the business and technology sectors. Erin, who identifies as deafblind, shares her personal experiences and professional insights, emphasizing the need for businesses to adopt inclusive practices. This blog post will break down the key points discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide businesses in improving their accessibility practices.Erin Perkins introduces herself and expresses her excitement about the conversation. She shares her background, explaining that she is deafblind and has faced unique challenges throughout her life. Despite these challenges, Erin has turned her experiences into a mission to educate businesses on the importance of accessibility. Her mission is to help businesses understand and implement better accessibility practices, emphasizing that accessibility goes beyond physical spaces to include digital platforms, social media, and communication methods.Erin outlines several practical steps that businesses can take to improve accessibility. She suggests conducting accessibility audits to assess current practices and identify areas for improvement, such as reviewing websites and communication methods. Implementing training programs for employees on disability awareness can foster a more supportive workplace culture. Utilizing accessible technology, like captioning tools and screen readers, is crucial. Erin also encourages open communication, allowing employees to discuss their needs, and recommends seeking expert guidance to develop strategies that align with specific goals. Through her work with Mabely Q, Erin offers services like consulting sessions and accessibility audits to empower businesses to enhance inclusivity.About Erin Perkins:Erin Perkins is a champion of disability rights and an inspiring entrepreneur who advocates for greater accessibility, inclusiveness, and understanding within the business world. As a deafblind woman herself – founder of small online business Mabely Q – as well as an experienced speaker/educator, Erin’s message has been heard by CEOs around the country. Her unique gifts are her life experiences which she compassionately shares with others through keynote speeches, private workshops or one-on-one consulting sessions to foster true inclusion at all levels -- allowing people with disabilities equal opportunities to succeed professionally.About Mabely Q:Mabely Q is a premier consulting firm that specializes in delivering transformative strategic solutions for organizations across various industries. With a deep focus on enhancing operational efficiency, driving innovation, and promoting sustainable growth, Mabely Q partners with businesses to develop tailored strategies that lead to long-term success. The company offers a comprehensive range of services, including business strategy development, leadership coaching, and organizational transformation. By leveraging data-driven insights and industry expertise, Mabely Q empowers organizations to navigate complex challenges, optimize performance, and build resilient, high-performing teams. Their mission is to foster lasting change and drive impactful results for businesses committed to growth and excellence.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 Mabely Q website at https://www.mabelyq.com/Check out Mabely Q on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mabely-q/Check out Erin Perkins on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erineperkins/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.

Embracing Authenticity in MarketingIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages with Lorrie Thomas Ross, the founder of Web Marketing Therapy, known as the "Marketing Therapist." Lorrie's approach uniquely blends therapeutic principles with strategic marketing, offering a refreshing perspective for business owners navigating the overwhelming marketing landscape. This discussion highlights key themes and insights, providing actionable advice for entrepreneurs aiming to align their marketing efforts with their authentic selves.Lorrie acknowledges the overwhelming array of marketing options available today, which can lead to confusion for business owners. She emphasizes the importance of a structured approach, likening it to baking a cake where certain ingredients must come together in a logical order. Lorrie introduces a framework of five key factors to help businesses prioritize their marketing strategies, ensuring alignment with core values and goals. This structured approach not only alleviates stress but also enhances the effectiveness of marketing efforts.A significant part of Lorrie's philosophy revolves around personal branding and authenticity. She believes marketing should reflect the true essence of the business owner, resonating with potential customers and making the process more enjoyable. Lorrie encourages entrepreneurs to embrace their unique stories and perspectives, which can significantly enhance their marketing efforts. By viewing marketing as a therapeutic process and opportunity for connection, business owners can shift their mindset from pressure to opportunity, fostering a positive and proactive approach to marketing.About Lorrie Thomas Ross:Lorrie Thomas Ross, M.A., The Marketing Therapist®, is a transformational marketing expert, educator and agency leader who provides fresh, value-rich information in a fun, educational and humorous way to inspire audiences into action. She is the CEO of Web Marketing Therapy, Inc. and author of The McGraw Hill 36-Hour Course to Online Marketing. Lorrie empowers and engages professionals who attend her speaking events with her 20+ years of expertise in marketing, business and sales. Every presentation is customized to the business, niche, skill sets and professional concerns of event attendees.About Web Marketing Therapy®:Web Marketing Therapy® (WMT) is a full-service marketing agency specializing in personalized marketing support and optimization. We support our clients as marketing optimizers FIRST and can improve your marketing strategy, website, content marketing, social media marketing, branding, search engine marketing, online advertising, online public relations, and personal branding. We do not have a menu approach to marketing, we customize our work based on your organization’s unique needs, goals, and budget.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 Web Marketing Therapy® website at https://www.webmarketingtherapy.com/Check out Web Marketing Therapy® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/web-marketing-therapy/Check out Lorrie Thomas Ross on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorriethomasross/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.

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.