Building Bridges in a Remote World: Enhancing Communication with AI Coaching   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with James Lawrence, the CEO and co-founder of Happy. This platform is dedicated to improving organizational culture and communication within companies, particularly in the evolving landscape of hybrid and remote work environments. The discussion centers around the challenges of managing people effectively, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how AI can play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. James begins by sharing his extensive experience as a CEO over the past 30 years, noting that most organizational challenges stem from people-related issues. He explains that his recent focus has been on developing technology that helps companies accelerate their people management processes at scale. Reflecting on his early leadership experiences, James acknowledges the difficulties he faced in effectively leading teams and recognizes that larger organizations often struggle even more with training and managing personnel. Josh and James discuss the critical need for a positive workplace culture, whether in-person or virtual. They agree that fostering a sense of value among team members is essential for organizational success. James elaborates on how the Happy platform addresses these needs by providing AI-enhanced coaching tailored to individual employees. This coaching is integrated into the tools that employees use daily, such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, making it easily accessible and relevant. About James Lawrence: With more than 25 years of being a CEO and founder, James Lawrence loves to share his insights on leadership, organizational culture and the intersection of technology in the workplace. James believes the cornerstone of every successful organization is its people. His mission is to help people love their work and get connected with their teams because, in his words, "when people work better, we all win, together.” James is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for cultivating great workplaces and empowering people. At 48, he's the co-founder and CEO of Happy Companies, a startup that uses technology to deliver AI-enhanced Coaching. Happy revolutionize the way organizations encourage improved communication, collaboration and engagement with their employees at scale. Happy delivers plug-and-play AI-enhanced Coaching via tools like Slack, Gmail, Zoom and Teams. Happy believes that effective manager and employee relationships are key to creating organizations that are healthy, productive, and profitable. His journey to leadership wasn't straightforward. Early in his career, James learned the hard way that authority doesn't come from a title; it comes from genuinely understanding and connecting with your team. With a background of launching four startups, two auto racing championships under his belt and previous leadership roles as the CEO of Power Automedia and Chairman of the Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association (SEMA), James brings a unique blend of speed and innovation to the business world. James places a strong emphasis on nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of leaders, always with an eye toward meaningful work. James is married to his amazing wife Melissa and is father to three kids – Bradley, Jordan and Taylor. When he's not leading his team or spending time with his family, James is likely coaching youth football, driving a race car faster than 200 mph, learning to fly, or diving into one of his favorite books, which range from "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" to "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People About Happy Companies: Happy is dedicated to empowering people—to improve how every team works together. We help everyone become the best version of themselves. Happy is a SAAS Tech Startup with a proprietary platform designed to enhance employee engagement and boost organizational performance in the #future of work. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Happy Companies website at https://happycompanies.com/ Check out Happy Companies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/happycompanies Check out James Lawrence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesflawrence 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.  

Becoming a Destination Employer: Attracting, Recruiting, and Retaining Talent   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge sat down with Gerry Gadoury, the founder and managing director of Red Beard Solutions and author of "Destination Employer." The conversation delved into the intricacies of leadership, talent acquisition, and the concept of becoming a "destination employer." This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for business leaders looking to attract, recruit, and retain top talent. Josh Elledge introduces the episode by highlighting the importance of effective leadership and talent acquisition, sharing his own experiences and resources available at upmyinfluence.com. Gerry Gadoury, a former United States Marine Corps sergeant, transitioned into the business world nearly 30 years ago. His journey began as a technical recruiter and evolved into management consulting, where he developed the "Destination Employer" methodology. This approach focuses on helping businesses attract, recruit, and retain top talent, making them desirable places to work. Gerry emphasizes that leadership is a continuous journey rather than a destination. Effective leadership requires ongoing development and self-awareness. One of the first steps in becoming an effective leader is to find a leadership style that resonates with you. Gerry introduces the concept of a "candidate attraction engine," crucial for attracting top talent despite constraints. The three phases of the Destination Employer Methodology—Attraction, Recruitment, and Retention—are essential for building a reputation as a company where professionals can significantly advance their careers. For more resources and to connect with Gerry Gadoury, visit destinationemployer.seo. To stay updated with Josh Elledge and "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," visit upmyinfluence.com and subscribe to the podcast for daily inspiration and motivation. About Gerry Gadoury:   Gerry Gadoury is a former Marine Sergeant who has spent the last 20 years in the Technology Professional Services Industry. In that time, he has been a recruiter, salesperson, manager, consultant, speaker, trainer, executive, and business owner. Through it all his passion has been building and leading highly effective, international technology, sales, and recruitment teams. Utilizing that experience, he designed the Destination Employer methodology to empower Start-Up and early-stage companies to compete with, and succeed against, established industry leaders. Complementing the Destination Employer methodology, Mr. Gadoury created the industry’s first AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud, & Tech focused Recruitment & Retention as a Service (RRaaS) program to assist Government Agency and Private industry partners to save money while building the technology teams they need to succeed in their vital missions.   About RedBeard Solutions:   RedBeard Solutions is a cyber security and information technology professional services firm that helps companies and government agencies master their technical environments and crush their projects. Specializes in robust cybersecurity & technology professional services and custom talent solutions to maximize your team’s effectiveness. With our expertise and access to top talent, we deliver tailored solutions for your organization’s unique needs. Trust us to fortify your systems in an ever-evolving digital landscape. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest     Links Mentioned in this Episode:   Want to learn more? Check out RedBeard Solutions website at https://redbeardsol.com/ Check out RedBeard Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/redbeard-solutions Check out Gerry Gadoury on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrygadoury 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.    

Transforming the Kitchen and Wardrobe Manufacturing Industry In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sina Meshkani, the founder of Sinaholz. Sinaholz is a pioneering company that offers configurator software designed to streamline the design and production processes for kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers. This episode delves into the innovative solutions provided by Sinaholz, the importance of customization, and the role of 3D visualization in the industry, especially in the wake of changing consumer behaviors post-pandemic. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience, having spoken with over 2,000 industry leaders, Josh shares insights on achieving 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. He promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines these strategies that have helped him generate significant revenue over the years. As the conversation shifts to Sina, Josh expresses excitement about his work and the elegant platform his company has developed. Sina, with 24 years of experience in kitchen and wardrobe manufacturing, explains his mission to share his expertise with other businesses. He describes how his company’s configurator software automates the entire process from sales to production, allowing for customization that meets the demands of today’s market. Josh prompts Sina to elaborate on the elements of his platform, encouraging him to explain it in a way that resonates with listeners who may not be able to visualize the technology. Sina uses a relatable analogy, asking listeners to imagine a kitchen manufacturer receiving a request for a customized kitchen design. He explains that customers often gather ideas from various sources and expect a comprehensive plan that includes 3D visualizations, quotations, and shop drawings. Sinaholz’s configurator software addresses this need by providing a seamless environment for designing, estimating, and visualizing projects, ultimately sending the finalized designs to the factory. Josh highlights that Sinaholz primarily serves the B2B sector, working with kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers rather than individual consumers. Sina confirms this, noting that while they can connect individual clients with suppliers, their main focus is on supporting businesses in the industry. About Sina Meshkani: Sina Meshkani has been an entrepreneur for more than Twenty years. Initially, he built kitchen cabinets in an 80 m2 workshop with elementary tools. He and his team successfully established themselves in the market by using innovative designs and 3D rendering in interior design for the first time in their local market. He is skilled in Cisco networking and coding applications. His goal is to bring joy, happiness and a new lifestyle into other people’s homes. To achieve this, he has done his best to build a happy, trustworthy and transcendent organization by learning new skills and training and coaching his team. When he’s not glued to his computer, he spends his free time sketching, programming, and reading books. About Sinaholz: With 20 years of experience in the panel industry, the company is a pioneer in its field. Its innovative use of Industry 4.0-based software (imos) distinguishes it from competitors, enabling it to stay ahead of the curve. The company values collaboration and resource sharing, viewing its clients and partners as essential collaborators in the pursuit of success. The mission is to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses unique needs. Driven by innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, the company focuses not only on the work itself but also on fostering strong relationships built on communication and trust. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Sinaholz website at https://sinaholz.com/ Check out Sinaholz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinaholz-gmbh/ Check out Sina Meshkani on LinkedIn at https://de.linkedin.com/in/sina-meshkani 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.  

Escaping Founder-Led Sales In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Corey Quinn, an expert in helping agency founders transition away from founder-led sales. This episode delves into the challenges faced by agency founders, the importance of specialization, and actionable insights from Corey’s book, "Anyone Not Everyone." Corey Quinn, with 17 years of experience in the agency space, shares his journey from a sales role focused on PPC and SEO to becoming the Chief Marketing Officer for a nine-figure agency. His experiences and insights culminated in his book, which aims to help agency founders escape the founder-led sales trap. Corey identifies three primary reasons why agency founders struggle to move away from founder-led sales: lack of focus, watered-down positioning, and inadequate sales systems. Many founders start as generalists, offering services to a wide range of clients, which complicates scaling. Corey emphasizes the need for agency founders to specialize in a specific vertical market, allowing them to communicate their value more effectively and attract clients who resonate with their expertise. He provides actionable advice such as identifying core competencies, narrowing the target audience, and developing a consistent sales process. Additionally, Corey advises clarifying the value proposition, educating the audience, and implementing a CRM system to track leads and manage the sales pipeline. Corey outlines a three-month program designed to guide founders from being generalists to becoming deep specialists. The program includes identifying the right vertical market, positioning the agency, and attracting new clients. Founders learn to assess their strengths, evaluate market demand, and align with their passion. They are also equipped with strategies to effectively market their specialized services and generate leads. As the conversation wraps up, Josh encourages listeners to take action and access a free audiobook of "Anyone Not Everyone" on Corey’s website. By following the actionable advice and insights shared in this episode, agency founders can overcome the challenges of founder-led sales and build a sustainable, scalable business. About Corey Quinn: Corey has 15 years of in-house agency experience, including as Scorpion's CMO, where he helped grow revenue from $20M to $150M in 6 years.   He just published his bestselling book: "Anyone, Not Everyone: a Proven System for Agencies to Escape Founder-Led Sales."  Today, he helps digital agency founders scale revenue and profits with Deep Specialization.   About Corey Quinn, Inc.: We help agency owners break the cycle of flat sales and high customer churn by becoming a vertical market specialist. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Corey Quinn,Inc. website at https://www.coreyquinn.com/ Check out Corey Quinn,Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/corey-quinn-inc/ Check out Corey Quinn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyquinn 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 Intersection of Podcasting and Self-Improvement In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kevin Palmieri, the founder of Next Level University. Kevin shares his journey into podcasting, the challenges faced by new podcasters, and strategies for building a successful business model around a podcast. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and expert insights for aspiring podcasters and self-improvement enthusiasts. Kevin's fascination with podcasts began as a listener. A pivotal moment during a YouTube interview made him realize that podcasting could be a viable career path. This epiphany led him to leave his job in 2018 and pursue podcasting full-time. Kevin describes his audience as "dream chasers"—emotionally driven individuals seeking fulfillment in various aspects of their lives, from relationships to career success. Next Level University offers a range of services to support individuals on their self-improvement journeys, including one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and live events, catering to a diverse audience. Josh and Kevin discuss the phenomenon of "pod fade," where many new podcasters give up before reaching their potential. Kevin emphasizes the importance of commitment and understanding the effort required to succeed in podcasting. He advises aspiring podcasters to identify their unique expertise and create a clear path for their listeners to engage further. By focusing on delivering value and understanding their audience's needs, aspiring podcasters can navigate the challenges of the industry and create a lasting impact. About Kevin Palmieri: He is the CFO, Founder, and Co-Host of Next Level University, a globally recognized Top 100 Self-Improvement Podcast with over 1,100 episodes and more than 675,000 listens across 140 countries. While many encounter rock bottom, he discovered that rock bottom had a basement. In his mid-20s, he seemed to have it all—a beautiful girlfriend, a high-paying job, a sports car, and his dream body—yet he found himself sitting on the edge of a bed, contemplating suicide. Following this critical moment, he committed fully to holistic self-improvement, determined to overcome his anxiety and depression and to finally live the life he had always envisioned. Years later, he now hosts a podcast that influences hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. He has transformed the podcast into a multi six-figure business and has recorded well over 1,000 episodes. Additionally, he has delivered hundreds of speeches, trainings, and coaching calls to people across the globe. The primary change was within himself. By focusing on learning what he did not know (and unlearning much of what he had), his life began to transform. He is passionate about discussing topics such as Consistency, Commitment, Habits, Mindset, Confidence, Fear, Relationships, Limiting Beliefs, and more. He advocates for a heart-driven but no-nonsense approach to holistic self-improvement and is eager to teach others about what it truly takes to reach the next level. About Next Level University: At Next Level University, we are committed to helping you get to the next level of your life, love, health, and wealth. No matter where you are in life, there is always a next level. Through podcast episodes, weekly meetups and one-on-one and group coaching, we share tips, strategies, and lessons we’ve learned along the way to help you get to the next level! Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Next Level University website at https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ Check out Next Level University on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-university/ Check out Kevin Palmieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/ 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 Business Acquisitions and Investment Strategies In a recent podcast episode, host Josh delves into the intricate world of business acquisitions and investment strategies with Matt Bodnar, the founder and managing partner of Eidolon Capital. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the dynamics of buying and investing in businesses, especially in the context of the impending retirement of baby boomers. Here, we break down the key themes and actionable advice shared by Matt Bodnar, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Matt Bodnar, based in Nashville, Tennessee, explains his role at Eidolon Capital, where he focuses on buying and investing in businesses globally. He highlights a significant trend in the market: the impending retirement of approximately 70 million baby boomers over the next decade, which will lead to a substantial transfer of business ownership. Around 12 million businesses, valued at about $10 trillion, will need to change hands, creating a unique opportunity for investors. Matt’s investment philosophy centers around acquiring businesses with a long-term perspective, aiming to hold onto businesses indefinitely and providing a stable and supportive environment for the companies they acquire. Josh also highlights Matt’s successful podcast, "The Science of Success," where he has interviewed numerous thought leaders, including Robert Cialdini, Brené Brown, and Adam Grant. Matt shares that his interest in psychology and human behavior has driven his podcasting journey, as he seeks to understand the underlying principles that govern business interactions and decision-making. Reflecting on his extensive interviews, Matt emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamental practices such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining emotional well-being. He also discusses the significance of networking and the concept of "the strength of weak ties," explaining that the most valuable connections often come from acquaintances or individuals on the periphery of one’s network. About Matt Bodnar: He is the Founder and Managing Partner of Eidolon Capital and serves as the major investor and Chairman of Ozark River Manufacturing, Fresh Technology, Inc., Highland Industrial Staffing, and Tennessee Rack. Additionally, he is a Managing Partner at his family office, Bodnar Investment Group. In 2018, he was named to Forbes' “30 Under 30,” and he is currently a partner in several Inc. “Fastest Growing Companies in America,” including Fresh Technology, Inc. and Tazikis, Inc. About Eidolon Capital: Eidolon Capital’s investments span a range of industries including software, manufacturing, industrial distribution, information technology, staffing, consumer products, real estate, and medical equipment. The firm focuses on lower middle-market acquisitions with EBITDA ranging from $2 million to $10 million. Although Eidolon is industry agnostic, it specializes in control acquisitions in services, technology, distribution, and manufacturing. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Eidolon Capital website at https://eidoloncapital.com/ Check out Eidolon Capital on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/eidolon-capital/ Check out Matt Bodnar website at https://mattbodnar.com/ Check out Matt Bodnar on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbodnar/ 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 Essential Benefits of Outsourcing Marketing Functions In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Stevie Brown, CEO of The Change Starter, a company specializing in outsourced marketing for SMEs. Stevie discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face in managing marketing efforts and the significant advantages of outsourcing these functions to expert teams. She emphasizes her commitment to bringing corporate-level marketing expertise to smaller businesses, helping them clarify their goals and target audience, and implementing bespoke marketing strategies. Stevie and Josh delve into the common misconception that entrepreneurs must manage all aspects of their business, including marketing. Stevie argues that as businesses grow, it becomes crucial to recognize one's limitations and seek external expertise. She highlights the importance of long-term partnerships in marketing, noting that effective marketing is a continuous process requiring ongoing attention and adaptation. Stevie shares insights into the transformative journey clients experience when they engage with The Change Starter, often finding themselves liberated to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives as they trust the marketing team and see results. Stevie introduces her book, "The Care Factor Fix," which explores the disconnect between business owners and marketing providers. She outlines the CARE framework—Commitment, Accountability, Realism, and Engagement—as essential pillars for fostering successful relationships. By focusing on these pillars, businesses can cultivate strong, long-term partnerships with their marketing providers, enhancing the effectiveness of marketing efforts and fostering a collaborative environment. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of thoughtful leadership and leveraging external expertise to drive growth, encouraging listeners to reflect on their marketing practices and implement the CARE framework for better results. About Stevie Brown: Stevie V. Brown is a 20-year marketing industry veteran, author of The CARE Factor Fix™ How to Finally Get Results from Marketing” and CEO of The Change Starter®; a boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. With her infectious energy, eccentric British humour, and honest, direct approach, Stevie brings a refreshing sense of realism to any audience ready to learn and be challenged. About The Change Starter®: A boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Change Starter® website at https://www.thechangestarter.com/ Check out The Change Starter® on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/company/thechangestarter Check out Stevie Brown on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevievbrown-outsourced-marketing 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 Power of Peer Advisory Groups: Transforming CEOs into Great Leaders In a recent episode of *The Thoughtful Entrepreneur*, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Jim Schleckser, the CEO and managing partner of The CEO Project. Schleckser, an expert in creating peer advisory groups for CEOs and author of the book "Great CEOs Are Lazy," shares his profound insights on the unique challenges faced by CEOs, the importance of effective leadership, and strategies for fostering a high-performing team. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide CEOs and aspiring leaders. Schleckser introduces the concept of The CEO Project, emphasizing that CEOs are not fully formed leaders upon taking their roles. Instead, they must continuously work on their development. The CEO Project focuses on building peer groups—mastermind groups—composed of CEOs with similar business sizes and complexities. These groups are paired with experienced CEO advisors who guide them in making critical business decisions. Key takeaways include the necessity for continuous development, the value of peer groups for sharing experiences, and the importance of having seasoned advisors to navigate complex business decisions. A central theme of the discussion is the idea of the "kink in the hose," representing the point of constraint in a business that hinders growth. Schleckser explains that every business has a point of constraint that controls its overall performance. Identifying and addressing this kink is crucial for CEOs to unlock their company's potential. He also highlights the significance of having A+ players within an organization, stressing that attracting such talent is a personal responsibility of the CEO. By focusing on identifying constraints, attracting top talent, and leveraging peer advisory groups, CEOs can enhance their effectiveness and drive their organizations toward success. About Jim Schleckser: Jim has guided hundreds of CEOs to profound business and profit growth across multiple industries. Leaders wanting to grow to the next level seek his insights into CEO effectiveness. Jim offers a distinctive CEO advisory program that combines peer group work sessions with one-on-one advisory sessions, all led by former CEOs. These curated advisory boards provide CEOs with rare, unbiased, and valuable guidance He created the "Lazy CEO" concept, emphasizing focused efforts, efficient delegation, and time management to drive business change and growth. The creative tools to identify your business constraints and the high-leverage roles of the leader are learnable and teachable to your team. By providing a group of High Caliber Peers, an Experienced Advisory group with decades of experience, and a Comprehensive Approach, the CEO Advisory Group Framework is a formula for success! About The CEO Project: The CEO Project is a business advisory group for experienced CEOs seeking challenge and collaboration from peer CEOs. We guide hundreds of high-performing CEOs, many in the Inc. 500 / 5000 and recognized as E&Y Entrepreneurs of the Year, through a disciplined approach to tackle the most difficult issues that delivers breakthrough thinking to resolve constraints, drive growth, and improves critical decisions. Your experience is guided by Advisors who are former CEOs of scaled organizations. They follow an efficient, disciplined approach to achieving strategic clarity, identifying critical points of constraints, and removing those constraints. Many of our CEOs have been members for over five years with financial performance 2 to 3X their peers and have integrated the The CEO Project process and tools as a core part of their leadership and management system. If you are a CEO who is driven to achieve profitable growth for your company while raising your own level of performance, contact us to learn more: www.incceoproject.com Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The CEO Project website at https://theceoproject.com/ Check out The CEO Project on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/theceoproject Check out Jim Schleckser on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimschleckser/ 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 Evolving Tech Landscape In a recent episode of the podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Justin Fortier, the founder and CEO of FYC Labs. This development and creative agency specializes in building web applications, mobile applications, and websites. The discussion delves into the evolution of the software development industry over the past 11 years, the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI), and best practices for collaborating with tech vendors. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Justin, providing a comprehensive guide for businesses and entrepreneurs navigating the tech landscape. Reflecting on the past decade, Justin acknowledges that while many companies have struggled to keep pace, FYC Labs has differentiated itself through a commitment to innovation. Key points include embracing emerging technologies like blockchain and AI, and creating a consortium to leverage collective buying power and retain talent. Justin shares an anecdote from his time in graduate school, where he worked in a bar that expanded into multiple restaurants, teaching him the value of creating a consortium of businesses to leverage collective buying power and retain talent. Justin emphasizes the importance of treating vendors as partners rather than mere transactional relationships. Key advice includes clearly defining requirements and expectations, investing time in this process, and maintaining ongoing communication and collaboration. At FYC Labs, all team members have technical backgrounds, ensuring effective communication and smooth project execution. As the episode concludes, Justin invites listeners to explore opportunities for collaboration with FYC Labs and the broader Fractal Group, which encompasses various entrepreneurial ventures and investments. About Justin Fortier: Justin Fortier is a tech entrepreneur and founder of multiple successful companies in California. As CEO/CTO of FYC Labs, he successfully led the company to acquisition in 2020. The boutique design agency grew internationally, capturing clients such as Remax, National University, Budweiser, and Pepsi Co., and has been recognized on several top lists for Web Design and Development. Justin has been named as finalist for CEO of the year twice by the San Diego Business Journal and was recognized as one of the Top 50 Most Influential Business Leaders in San Diego by San Diego Daily Transcript. In addition, he holds top-level Technical/Business advisory positions at 11.2 Ventures, Blush Design Inc, Edvo, Aura Finance, and Intraratio Corp. He has held technical executive roles for blockchain innovators – XYO Network, ecommerce game changer – For Days, and manufacturing technology SaaS – Intraratio Corp. Justin volunteers his time helping other entrepreneurs and small business owners through various organizations such as San Diego Small Business Advisory Board, Sierra College, Folsom Chamber of Commerce, and the Granite City Foundation Justin is a father of two and enjoys fishing, hiking, and playing hockey Founder and CEO/CTO of FYC Labs, Justin Fortier, has been a guest on similar podcasts where his discussions have garnered positive feedback and engagement from audiences. Justin has also been showcased on Fox Business News twice in the last year. Moreover, his dedication and success have earned him a finalist spot in the "40 under 40" Next Top Business Leaders and acknowledgment as the 2024 Mentor of the Year honoree by San Diego Business Journal. FYC Labs has added another award to the growing collection- a coveted spot on the esteemed 2023 Inc. 5000 List of Fastest-Growing Private Companies in America. Recently, FYC Labs has also been recognized as a leading IT Services provider in the field of Artificial Intelligence by Inc. Magazine’s Power Partners list. About FYC Labs: FYC Labs has been a top provider of innovative solutions for over a decade. We specialize in engineering and cutting-edge UI/UX web and product design, and provide organizations strategic support. We strive to exceed expectations by understanding your unique needs and delivering exceptional results. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out FYC Labs website at https://fyclabs.com/ Check out FYC Labs on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fyc-labs Check out Justin Fortier on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinffortier 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 Trust in B2B Marketing In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Nikhil Sai, the founder and CEO of Funnel Media. Nikhil shared his inspiring journey from being a broke dropout in India to building a successful marketing agency. He emphasized the importance of empathy and relationship-building in sales, and provided valuable insights into effective B2B marketing strategies. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you enhance your marketing and sales efforts. Nikhil Sai's journey is nothing short of remarkable. Growing up in a small town in India, he faced significant challenges, including language barriers and a lack of resources. Despite these obstacles, he was determined to succeed. By the age of 19, he had dropped out of school and set out to build a marketing agency. Within two years, he successfully established a million-dollar business, leveraging online strategies to attract high-ticket clients. At the core of Nikhil's approach is his **AI Funneling System**, which combines various tools and techniques to replicate the effects of personal referrals in an online environment. Nikhil advocates for a robust content creation strategy to effectively connect with potential clients. Here’s how you can implement this: Identify audience problems through research and use the same language your clients use to describe their problems. Provide value-driven content that offers solutions and insights, demonstrating your business's expertise through detailed and actionable content. Engage in response marketing by articulating the outcomes you can help clients achieve and maintaining a consistent presence across various platforms to build familiarity and trust. By implementing the strategies and insights shared by Nikhil Sai, businesses can enhance their marketing and sales efforts, build trust with potential clients, and achieve sustainable growth. About Nikhil Sai: Nikhil Sai's journey in the entrepreneurial world is nothing short of remarkable. Starting as a 19-year-old broke college dropout, Nikhil defied the odds and established a $1 million marketing agency within just two years. His accomplishments are even more astounding considering he's recognized as the world's youngest recipient of the hundred million dollar award in his field. He has won multiple 2 comma club awards from the Founder of ClickFunnels, Russell Brunson . He also has the privilege to generating over half a billion dollars in verified client results, having worked with Inc 500 companies, Forbes Council Members and various other high ticket coaches and real estate companies. About Funneling Media: This platform provides 'done-for-you' marketing services. It is tailored for businesses already generating over a million dollars in revenue, aiming to boost their marketing strategies further. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Funneling Media website at https://funnelingmedia.com/ Check out Funneling Media on LinkedIn at https://in.linkedin.com/company/funnelingmedia Check out Nikhil Sai on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/thenikhilsai   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.