The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Leadership Redefined: Embracing Vulnerability and Connection in BusinessIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Richard Atherton, co-founder of First Human and host of the "Being Human" podcast. The discussion delves into the evolving landscape of leadership, emphasizing the importance of human connection in the workplace and the transformative power of effective communication. This blog post breaks down key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners in their leadership journey.Richard Atherton, co-founder of First Human, shares his mission to inspire one million leaders through coaching programs, podcasts, and in-house development initiatives. He emphasizes the importance of listening, expanding possibilities, and committed speaking as essential skills for effective leadership. Richard highlights three critical aspects of leadership: generative listening, expanding possibility, and committed speaking. He provides actionable tips for each, such as practicing active listening, encouraging brainstorming sessions, and aligning words with actions to build trust and credibility.First Human works with a diverse range of clients, from large corporations to solopreneurs, facilitating leadership transformation through one-on-one coaching and structured programs. Richard explains how these programs help clients explore their leadership styles and worldviews, leading to significant successes such as increased revenue and closing profit gaps. As the conversation concludes, Josh thanks Richard for his insights and encourages listeners to engage with the resources shared throughout the episode, highlighting the potential to create a more connected, innovative, and effective workplace.About Richard Atherton:Richard is the Co-Founder of FirstHuman, where he’s on a mission to help CEOs, leaders, and top executives hit leadership breakthroughs with a human-first approach that prioritizes happiness, empowerment, and communication. FirstHuman has worked with standout clients like Adidas, Volkswagen, Heineken, PwC, UNICEF, and the Olympics. For nearly 10 years now, he’s been a transformative figure in leadership coaching, helping people make big shifts in their careers — whether they're leveling up within their organization or breaking out on their own to start something new. One of his standout achievements is an award-winning business transformation at the BBC, wherein he led a 6-person team that built a new global operation for 70+ journalists in just 3 months. He also notably helped leaders at CEVA close a $400M profitability gap.About FirstHuman:At FirstHuman, the team partners with organizations to create potent environments where new possibilities can emerge. These environments are built on deep relationships, powerful conversations, and groundbreaking missions, designed to foster transformation and high performance.Rather than relying on conventional management consultancy methods, FirstHuman does not offer standard blueprints, best practices, or peer-group comparisons. Instead, the company collaborates with business and HR leaders to co-create tailored performance interventions, transformative leadership development programs, and cultural transformations that drive exceptional results in record time.As one executive from a global FTSE 10 company put it, “FirstHuman has the expertise and courage to take on any challenge. Their profoundly insightful and pragmatic approach has delivered extraordinary results for our business and leadership. Any organization would reap massive benefit from working with them.”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 FirstHuman website athttps://www.firsthuman.com/Check out FirstHuman on LinkedIn athttps://uk.linkedin.com/company/firsthumanCheck out Richard Atherton on LinkedIn athttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/richardatherton-firsthumanDon’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. 

Rethinking Recruitment: How Behavioral Assessments Improve Hiring and Team DynamicsIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge explores the complexities of hiring and workforce management with Jason P. Carroll, CEO and founder of Aptive Index. The discussion highlights the limitations of traditional hiring methods and introduces innovative solutions that can transform recruitment and team dynamics. Josh sets the stage by sharing insights from his conversations with over 2,000 business leaders, emphasizing the importance of informed hiring decisions.Jason P. Carroll, with his extensive experience in leadership roles, including as president of Champion, brings valuable insights into the challenges of hiring. He critiques traditional practices like resumes and interviews, pointing out their flaws such as bias, misleading information, and overlooked talent. Jason introduces Aptiv Index, a tool that uses scientifically validated psychometric assessments to provide deeper insights into candidates' behaviors and potential fit for roles. This approach helps organizations make data-driven decisions, reduce bias, and identify hidden potential in candidates.The episode also touches on the role of AI in recruitment, with Jason discussing how AI can enhance the hiring process through data analysis and custom models. He shares success stories of Aptive Index's implementation across various organizations, highlighting its versatility and accessibility for companies of all sizes. As the episode concludes, listeners are encouraged to explore Aptiv Index further, with options to request a demo and experience the assessment firsthand. This conversation empowers organizations to embrace advanced tools like Aptiv Index to improve hiring processes, enhance team dynamics, and achieve greater success.About Jason P. Carroll:Jason P. Carroll is the founder and CEO of Aptive Index, a pioneering company dedicated to transforming hiring and leadership practices by integrating advanced psychometric assessments and strategic advisory services. Aptive Index is on a mission to redefine how organizations identify, develop, and retain top talent by providing data-driven insights that align leadership capabilities with organizational goals. Under Jason's leadership, the company has quickly become a trusted partner for businesses looking to enhance their decision-making processes and foster a culture of collaboration and resilience.About Aptive Index:Aptive Index is transforming the way companies approach talent acquisition through its cutting-edge psychometric assessments. By diving deep into individuals' unique strengths, values, and work styles, Aptive Index helps organizations align talent with roles where they can truly thrive, feel fulfilled, and make a meaningful impact.The company's mission is to bring integrity and actionable insight to the workplace, empowering leaders with a deeper understanding of what truly drives their teams. Going beyond traditional assessments, Aptive Index provides empathy-focused, data-driven insights that foster positive, collaborative cultures and guide organizations in making smarter, more informed decisions. With Aptive Index, businesses gain the unfair advantage of knowing their people on a profound level—ensuring both individual and organizational 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 Aptive Index website athttps://aptiveindex.com/Check out Aptive Index on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/aptiveindexCheck out Jason P. Carroll on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonpcarrollDon’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. 

Scaling Your Business: Overcoming Challenges and Embracing LeadershipIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a dynamic conversation with Allison Maslan, a seasoned entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of Pinnacle Global Network. Allison, also the author of the insightful book "Scale or Fail: How to Build Your Dream Team, Explode Your Growth, and Let Your Business Soar," shares her extensive experience in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the critical elements of business growth and the necessity of cultivating a robust team. This blog post will break down the key insights from their discussion, providing actionable advice for entrepreneurs looking to scale their businesses.Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to uncover where their best business comes from. Josh offers a free video resource that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in one’s industry over the next six to eight months, emphasizing a spam-free, ad-free, and sales-free approach. He encourages listeners to visit his website, Up My Influence, to access this valuable content. Following this introduction, Josh welcomes Allison Maslan to the show. He highlights her impressive background as an entrepreneur with over 40 years of experience and her role in helping more than 150,000 CEOs worldwide grow and scale their businesses through Pinnacle Global Network.Allison shares her passion for entrepreneurship, describing it as a powerful avenue for creativity and making a positive impact in the world. With a track record of building ten companies, she emphasizes the importance of recognizing and leveraging one’s unique gifts and talents. Drawing on insights from Gaye Hendrix, author of "The Big Leap," Allison discusses the concept of stepping into one’s genius and how aligning that genius with a business can amplify one’s purpose and impact. A significant portion of the conversation revolves around the necessity of building a strong team to support a founder’s vision. Josh and Allison discuss the transition from being a boss to becoming a leader who inspires others. Allison explains that empowering team members to take ownership of the company’s vision is crucial for creating a sustainable, scalable business model. She emphasizes that a successful business should be able to operate independently of its founder, allowing for growth and continuity even in the founder's absence.About Allison Maslan:Allison Maslan, CEO of Pinnacle Global Network, was recently named one of the “Top 10 Women Entrepreneurs to Watch” by Forbes Magazine. She is the Wall Street Journal Best Selling Author of Scale or Fail, which is endorsed by Daymond John and Barbara Corcoran of Shark Tank. Allison has built ten successful companies over the last 40 years.For the past 15 years, she and her team of business mentors have helped over 150,000Founders scale their businesses, fast-track their success, and create a more meaningful life through her company, Pinnacle Global Network, one of the Inc. 5000 Fastest-Growing PrivateCompanies.Allison has shared the stage with noted business leaders such as Richard Branson and Magic Johnson, and has been featured in Inc., Success, Fortune, Fast Company, and Forbes Magazines, is a regular contributor to Entrepreneur Magazine and a featured expert on ABC, CBS, NBC, CNN, and Fox across the US. She is also the host and producer of The SCALEit Method Podcast and the Women Who Own It Podcast brought to you by WBENC.About Pinnacle Global Network: Pinnacle Global Network, founded by Allison Maslan, is a global leader in helping businesses scale. The organization’s team of successful CEOs mentors business owners worldwide, providing the direction and strategies needed to make significant leaps in their companies. For over a decade, Pinnacle Global Network has assisted thousands of entrepreneurs in achieving rapid growth through clear, actionable guidance.In addition to one-on-one CEO mentoring, clients are placed in small virtual masterminds, fostering accountability and mutual support. The worldwide Pinnacle Community offers a network of business owners who collaborate, support, and inspire each other to break through barriers and soar to new heights.Pinnacle also hosts exclusive private events featuring some of the top business experts in the world. With unparalleled support, clients gain the tools, strategies, and guidance to thrive year after year, ensuring long-term success in their businesses.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 Pinnacle Global Network website athttps://pinnacleglobalnetwork.com/Check out Pinnacle Global Network on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/pinnacle-global-networkCheck out Allison Maslan on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/allisonmaslanDon’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. 

Enhancing Recruitment Efficiency with Structured Hiring and AIIn a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, the host engages in a compelling conversation with Joel Quintela, the founder and CEO of Quintela, an HR technology company specializing in assessments for hiring processes. The discussion delves into the critical importance of structured hiring practices and the transformative role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in enhancing recruitment efficiency and decision-making. The host begins by inviting the audience to explore opportunities for introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients, sharing their extensive experience in the business world and promoting a free video resource available on their website.Joel Quintela is introduced, highlighting his background as a business psychologist and explaining that his company focuses on building HR technology for large organizations, particularly Fortune 500 companies. The conversation quickly shifts to the core of Quintela's work, which involves enhancing the hiring process through various assessments, including personality tests, role plays, and structured interviews. Joel emphasizes the significance of structured interviews in the hiring process, noting that informal interviews often yield unreliable results. He explains that hiring is fundamentally a probability game, and organizations can increase their chances of success by being deliberate about the skills and competencies required for each role.The discussion also touches on current trends in hiring, with Joel identifying significant movements such as the shift to skills-based hiring and the integration of AI in recruitment. AI is being utilized to streamline various repetitive tasks in the hiring process, enhancing candidate communication, managing scheduling, and assisting in the assessment process. Joel highlights the importance of candidate experience throughout the hiring process and explains how Quintela's platform operates, offering tailored solutions for different organizations. The episode concludes with the host encouraging listeners to explore Quintela's offerings further and thanking Joel for his insights.About Joel Quintela:Joel Quintela is the founder and CEO of Quintela Group LLC, a minority-owned business enterprise specializing in HR technology solutions. With over 25 years of experience in HR assessment technology and 15 years as an entrepreneur, Joel has worked with numerous Fortune 500 clients to improve their hiring processes.About Quintela:Quintela provides technology-based talent assessment solutions for organizations. Products are- Digital Interview Guide platform which is an interview builder tool that allows talent acquisition teams to create interview guides, competency models, and screening protocols for various positions at an organization, Assessment platform that integrates multiple assessment vendors, proprietary assessments, or competencies in a simple dashboard and provides assessment administering and reporting tools, and integration with ATS/HRMS systems for candidate/employee assessment, and Custom Performance Management System. Won Silver in the 2016 Brandon Hall Group Excellence Awards in Technology.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 Quintela website athttps://quintela.io/Check out Quintela on Facebook athttps://www.facebook.com/quintelagroupCheck out Joel Quintela on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/joelquintelaDon’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. 

Simplifying Business Strategies for Meaningful ImpactIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Kaitlyn Cook, a business strategy specialist and executive coach. Kaitlyn, the founder of a consulting firm, shares her expertise in helping CEOs, particularly those generating 6 to 7 figures in revenue, transition to the 8-figure mark while making a meaningful impact in their industries. This blog post delves into the key themes and actionable insights from their discussion, providing valuable guidance for leaders aiming to simplify their business strategies and foster a positive work environment.Kaitlyn's mission is to assist CEOs in merging their business strategies with their core vision and purpose. She emphasizes the importance of reconnecting with the fundamental "why" behind their businesses. This involves clarifying the company's mission and vision, identifying strategic steps, and simplifying business operations to maintain focus on the essence of the business. With over a decade of experience in the business world and two decades in finance, Kaitlyn advocates for a streamlined approach that keeps the essence of the business at the forefront. She encourages CEOs to simplify their focus by asking critical questions about their business's purpose and target customers, offering one-on-one coaching, consulting, courses, and workshops to facilitate this process.Josh invites Kaitlyn to share actionable insights for leaders looking to alleviate pressure and foster a positive work environment. Kaitlyn highlights a profound realization: CEOs are not responsible for their team members' happiness. Instead, they are responsible for creating a safe and supportive work environment. She suggests practical tips for leaders, such as conducting regular self-check-ins, being open and vulnerable, and encouraging team autonomy. As the conversation progresses, Josh and Kaitlyn discuss the importance of planning for the upcoming year, with Kaitlyn suggesting that leaders engage in deep work, such as mind mapping, to visualize their goals for 2025. By focusing on both external metrics and internal growth, leaders can navigate the complexities of business with clarity and purpose. Kaitlyn Cook's insights provide valuable guidance for CEOs and leaders looking to make a meaningful impact in their industries.About Kaitlyn Cook:Kaitlyn Cook is a visionary business strategist and entrepreneur who has worked with over 10,000 businesses worldwide, helping them grow, thrive, and redefine success on their own terms. With a unique blend of business acumen and heart-centered strategy, Kaitlyn specializes in simplifying complex business challenges, merging passion with profit, and empowering business owners to unlock exponential growth while maintaining authenticity. Her journey from living on $7 a day in Bangkok to becoming a top 1% rated expert on Upwork exemplifies her belief in resilience, innovation, and the power of visionary thinking. Having successfully transformed businesses across industries—ranging from wellness to technology—Kaitlyn’s approach is driven by one simple question: What if? By helping entrepreneurs ask better questions and craft compelling visions for the future, she has facilitated dramatic revenue growth, operational excellence, and lasting impact for her clients. Her mission? To inspire business owners to succeed in ways that align with their values and vision—without burning out. Kaitlyn’s work is not just about increasing profit margins; it’s about fostering sustainable growth that empowers leaders to live the life they envision for themselves and their teams.About The KCC - Kaitlyn Cook Coaching:At KCC, the team empowers businesses on their journey to become industry leaders through a proven 6-step formula for success. Comprised of seasoned professionals and industry advisors, KCC specializes in transforming 7-figure revenue businesses into market leaders.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 KCC - Kaitlyn Cook Coaching website athttps://www.thekcc.co/Check out The KCC - Kaitlyn Cook Coaching on LinkedIn athttps://uk.linkedin.com/company/thekathlyncookcoachingCheck out Kaitlyn Cook on LinkedIn athttps://uk.linkedin.com/in/kaitlyn-cook-a6b078151Don’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. 

Copy That Captivates: Engaging Your Audience in the Interior Design WorldIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Masha Koyen, a seasoned copywriter and messaging strategist, and the founder of Content Vertical. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for business owners, particularly those in the interior design industry, looking to refine their marketing strategies and enhance their messaging to attract ideal clients. Let's dive into the key takeaways and actionable advice shared by Masha Koyen.Masha Koyen specializes in helping interior designers connect with their ideal clients through tailored messaging strategies and impactful website copy. Her approach is deeply rooted in understanding the emotional and psychological needs of the target audience. She introduces her signature framework, "Reveal," which involves in-depth research and client interviews to uncover pain points, desires, and motivations. This foundational work enables Masha to create copy that not only informs but also emotionally engages potential clients.Masha acknowledges the growing presence of AI tools in the copywriting industry. While AI can streamline certain tasks, she emphasizes that it cannot replace the essential human element of emotional connection. Understanding an audience's needs and motivations requires a level of empathy and insight that AI cannot replicate. Masha highlights the importance of strategic marketing and resonant messaging, advising business owners to shift the focus from "we" to "you" in their messaging and to leverage storytelling to build trust and rapport. By implementing Masha's insights and practical tips, business owners can enhance their marketing efforts, attract their ideal clients, and ultimately achieve greater success in their ventures.About Masha Koyen:Masha Koyen is a copywriter, creative storyteller, published author, and the host of the Marketing for Designers Podcast.With nearly two decades of marketing experience at prestigious organizations like KPMG, Deloitte, Pearson, and OpenText, Masha has developed a deep expertise in the industry. After working with global and national brands, Masha chose to specialize in a field that truly sparks passion — copywriting for interior designers.Everyone has a zone of genius, and for Masha's clients, it's their design expertise. For Masha, it's the ability to uncover and articulate what others may not yet see in themselves, finding the perfect words to express it.Driven by a love of research and creative storytelling, Masha uses a signature REVEAL framework to identify the key differentiators that will emotionally resonate with clients’ ideal audiences.About Content Vertical:Content Vertical helps startups and established businesses market themselves effectively. Based in Toronto, Content Vertical serves clients worldwide but has a special focus on supporting business owners within the local Toronto area and surrounding regions.Specializing in content creation, Content Vertical develops and publishes a range of materials, from beautifully written websites and engaging blogs to captivating social media posts and attention-grabbing emails. The goal is clear: to help businesses attract new leads, nurture existing ones, and foster growth. Content Vertical positions itself as an on-demand marketer, copywriter, and brand ambassador, delivering tailored solutions that resonate with each client’s audience.In today’s fast-evolving business landscape, many business owners feel overwhelmed by the constant buzz around terms like SEO, content marketing, and copywriting. Not everyone is a marketer, and that’s okay. What business owners do need is an industry insider who can demystify these concepts and craft compelling, results-driven copy for all their digital channels — from websites and blogs to social media and email campaigns.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 Content Vertical website athttps://contentvertical.com/Check out Content Vertical on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/content-vertical/Check out Masha Koyen on LinkedIn athttps://ca.linkedin.com/in/mashacopywriterDon’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 Art of Restaurant Consulting: Transforming Struggles into Success StoriesIn the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting John Felico, a seasoned restaurant consultant and author of the book "Drafting a Dream: The Only Restaurant Guide You'll Ever Need to Stop Screwing Up and Start Winning." John shared his extensive experience in the restaurant industry, discussing the challenges and triumphs he has faced as an entrepreneur. This blog post will delve into the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for aspiring restaurateurs.John Felico is not just a consultant; he is a veteran of the restaurant industry with over 40 years of experience. He has seen the highs and lows of the business and has distilled his knowledge into 16 essential rules for success. His latest venture, Augie's Draft Room in downtown St. Augustine, serves as a case study for many of the principles he discusses. When John first opened Augie's Draft Room, it was designed as a sports bar. However, the initial six months were challenging, with the bar grossing only $200,000. John quickly realized that the clientele and market dynamics were not what he had anticipated. This led to significant changes in the business model, ultimately resulting in a revenue of $2 million per year within two years.John's book serves as a guide for restaurant owners facing common challenges. He emphasizes that the key to a successful restaurant is not just the food but the overall experience. Creating memorable experiences for customers is paramount. John highlights the importance of understanding the market and the target audience, using St. Augustine as a case study. He explains how he initially misjudged the drinking habits of tourists, leading to a pivot in his business model. A significant theme in the episode is the need for introspection among entrepreneurs. John explains that many restaurant owners fail to recognize their limitations and the challenges of the industry. His experiences highlight the importance of adaptability, market understanding, and creating memorable customer experiences. Through his book and consulting work, John aims to empower aspiring restaurateurs to navigate the challenges of the industry and achieve success.About John Felico:John Felico, author of DRAFTING A DREAM, is a serial entrepreneur, acclaimed advisor, and restaurant owner with over forty years of experience in the culinary industry. He launched his first business at age seventeen. Ten years later, he opened a Dominic’s of New York food truck outside a Lowes store in Virginia. Over the next two decades, he grew the business to 175 locations and developed licensing deals with supermarkets and sports venues around the country. After creating additional concepts, including The Olde Glory Coffee Company and Staks Subs, Felico opened Auggie’s Draft Room, a self-serve tap house in St. Augustine, Florida. Today Felico works as an advisor to restauranteurs and start-ups throughout the United States.About his book "Drafting a Dream":In Drafting a Dream, he gives you the blueprint to not only survive but thrive. He turned a struggling restaurant from just $200,000 in sales into a $2 million-a-year success in under two years, and now he’s sharing the real-world strategies that made it happen.The restaurant business is brutal. Half of all new ventures fail. The biggest challenge? Not being ready for the problems that will definitely come your way. But here’s the thing: it's not just about handling challenges. It’s about seeing them before they turn into full-blown crises. The key to success lies in knowing how to make small but impactful adjustments that can transform your business from struggling to thriving.In Drafting a Dream, Felico gives you the tools to identify these challenges early and fix them before they spin out of control. He also shows you how to put the right systems and processes in place, so these problems barely have a chance to surface.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 John Felico's website athttps://johnfelico.com/Check out John Felico on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/john-felico-2b7535124Check out his book "Drafting A Dream" on Amazon athttps://www.amazon.com/Drafting-Dream-John-Felico/dp/B0DK762QQNDon’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 Three Pillars of Prosperity: How Well-Being, Spirituality, and Relationships Shape Our FinancesIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages with Ruchi Pinniger, the founder and CEO of "Watch Her Prosper." The conversation explores the concept of prosperity, expanding it beyond financial wealth to include well-being, spirituality, and healthy relationships with money. Ruchi shares her journey from Wall Street to empowering others, particularly women, to feel more confident in their financial decisions. This blog post highlights the key insights and actionable advice from the episode, offering a comprehensive guide for listeners.Ruchi Pinniger redefines prosperity through three essential pillars: well-being, spirituality, and relationships. She encourages individuals to prioritize self-care and joyful activities, emphasizing that true prosperity involves a holistic approach. Ruchi also highlights the importance of a spiritual mindset, focusing on abundance and gratitude rather than scarcity. Additionally, she stresses the need for healthy relationships with both people and money, urging individuals to reflect on their beliefs about money and engage in open financial communication.Ruchi underscores the importance of financial literacy, especially for women, who often feel less confident discussing money. She advocates for educational resources, mentorship, and community support to empower women in their financial journeys. Ruchi also addresses the impact of education trends on women and money, noting the increasing number of women pursuing higher education. By fostering a positive money mindset and providing tools for financial empowerment, Ruchi Pinniger is making a significant impact in the world of financial literacy. Listeners are encouraged to visit "Watch Her Prosper" for more resources and support in their financial journeys.About Ruchi Pinniger:Ruchi Pinniger is the founder of Watch Her Prosper®, an organization committed to providing the financial mentorship, support, and services that women-led, service-based business owners need to thrive in today’s competitive landscape. What sets Watch Her Prosper apart from other financial service firms is its unwavering dedication to small business owners and the strong, long-lasting relationships built with clients.With over 25 years of experience in financial management, including a successful career as a Wall Street executive, [Name] brings invaluable expertise in helping business owners navigate economic fluctuations. Often referred to as a "financial therapist" by her clients, her mentorship goes beyond traditional financial advice, addressing both personal and business challenges. [Name] is passionate about empowering women business owners to create prosperity on all levels, ensuring that their inner passion and purpose are reflected in their financial success.About Watch Her Prosper®:Watch Her Prosper® is an organization dedicated to providing the financial mentorship, support, and services that creative, women-led business owners need to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. What sets Watch Her Prosper apart from other financial support firms is its unwavering commitment to small business owners and the strong, lasting relationships it builds with clients.Founded by Ruchi Pinniger, a former Wall Street executive, Watch Her Prosper draws on over 25 years of financial management experience. Ruchi has a proven track record of helping business owners navigate economic ups and downs. Often referred to as a "financial therapist" by her clients, her mentorship is deeply rooted in addressing both personal and business needs. Ruchi takes pride in offering a personal touch, ensuring that women entrepreneurs create prosperity on all levels, so their passion and purpose are reflected in both their business and their bank account.and grow, offering the support needed to navigate financial challenges with confidence.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Watch Her Prosper® website athttps://watchherprosper.com/Check out Watch Her Prosper® on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/watch-her-prosper/Check out Ruchi Pinniger on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/ruchipinnigerDon’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 the Power of AI Analytics for Small and Medium BusinessesIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge engaged in a compelling conversation with Krunal Patel, the co-founder and Chief Product Officer of Bordo AI. The discussion centered around the transformative potential of AI analytics in helping small and medium businesses (SMBs) and financial institutions better understand their customers and make data-driven decisions. This blog post delves into the key themes and insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and expert recommendations for leveraging AI in business.Krunal Patel introduces Bordo AI, an AI analytics platform designed to assist SMBs and financial institutions in gaining deeper insights into their customers. The platform leverages transaction and sales data to help businesses understand their customer base better, convert one-time customers into loyal ones, and identify opportunities for cross-selling and upselling. Krunal explains the necessity of AI analytics in today's business landscape, noting that while the need for advanced analytics has existed for some time, the underlying technology was not available until recently. With the rise of generative AI, the maturation of machine learning models, and the decreasing cost of computing power, now is the ideal time to build solutions that promote financial equity.The conversation shifts to the topic of critical thinking and decision-making. Josh highlights the tendency for individuals to make decisions based on emotions, which can sometimes lead to flawed judgments. Krunal agrees, stating that the goal of Bordo AI is to augment human decision-making, not replace it. AI can enhance decision-making by providing additional data points and insights. The episode concludes with Josh thanking Krunal for the insightful conversation and encouraging listeners to explore the potential of AI in their own businesses. By combining human intuition with advanced AI analytics, businesses can achieve optimal outcomes and stay competitive in today's dynamic market.About Krunal Patel:Krunal Patel is a seasoned product and engineering leader with over 20 years of experience across multiple industries, including Finance, Life Sciences, Healthcare, and Public Safety. He specializes in driving innovation through SaaS and AI products, with a proven track record in developing cutting-edge solutions. As a two-time founder, Krunal successfully raised $10M in seed funding for an AI enterprise platform and scaled a SaaS analytics platform from 5 to 1,800+ trials, achieving a 50% YoY revenue growth. He has led global product and engineering teams of up to 75 people across four countries and holds a patent for "Abstractly Implemented Data Analysis Systems and Methods."Krunal’s expertise spans the full product lifecycle, from ideation to market launch, and he is skilled at leveraging AI, ML, and cloud computing to create data-driven solutions. He is passionate about building and mentoring high-performance, diverse teams and aligning product development with strategic business objectives. With a user-centric, agile approach, Krunal is committed to delivering genuine customer value and fostering continuous innovation to drive long-term success.About Bordo:Bordo is an AI software-as-a-service (SaaS) that helps organizations connect, contextualize, and derive deep-rooted insights from their high-dimensional data.Equip your teams with our Explainable & Context-Aware Recognition AI, experienced through an intuitive, conversational interface.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 Bordo website athttps://bordo.ai/Check out Bordo on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/bordoaiCheck out Krunal Patel on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/krunaljpDon’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 Art of Consistency: Aligning Beliefs and Actions for Unstoppable Success  In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," the host engages in a dynamic conversation with David C. Olcott, the founder and CEO of Samurai Success. This episode delves into themes of personal and professional development, emphasizing the alignment of beliefs and behaviors to achieve success. Below, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners seeking to enhance their personal and professional lives.David C. Olcott shares his background, growing up in the Florida Keys, and how his unique upbringing influenced his perspective on success. He discusses his educational journey and the principles that led him to found Samurai Success, a coaching business focused on personal development and aligning beliefs with behaviors. A central theme of the conversation is the congruency between beliefs, behaviors, and results. David emphasizes that successful individuals create their own identities rather than waiting for others to define them. He introduces the concept of the "attractor factor," where coherence between beliefs and behaviors attracts positive events and opportunities.David elaborates on the unique coaching system offered by Samurai Success, which has been in operation for 27 years. Unlike traditional coaching models, clients work with a team of three coaches, each focusing on different aspects of personal and business development. David discusses the common experience of entrepreneurs losing their passion for their businesses and emphasizes the importance of rekindling that passion. As the new year approaches, he encourages listeners to revisit their core values, mission, and purpose. This episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" offers valuable insights into personal and professional development through the lens of David C. Olcott’s experiences and the philosophy of Samurai Success.About David C. Olcott:David C. Olcott is the founder, president, and CEO of Samurai Success, Inc., an international coaching firm based in Denver, CO. With 35 years of experience, David has developed the Samurai Success coaching system, a proven roadmap that helps individuals and organizations achieve greater purpose, sustainability, and profitability. Drawing from both Newtonian and metaphysical principles, David guides his clients in remembering their true essence, empowering them to navigate challenges and create a legacy of success. His expertise as a coach, motivational speaker, and trainer has impacted people worldwide, from entrepreneurs to corporate leaders, as well as those seeking personal growth.Before founding Samurai Success, David was a top national trainer for Anthony Robbins and served as the business manager for the world’s top-selling real estate agent. He also had a distinguished career in public service, working as chief of staff for a Florida state senator and as campaign manager for one of the youngest women elected to the Florida House of Representatives. Certified in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and holding a degree in finance, David is also a second-degree black belt in Aikido and an accomplished motorcycle racer. He is the author of the Amazon best-selling book Swords of Illumination and has been a guest on numerous radio shows and podcasts. David lives in Colorado and Oregon with his wife, Dr. Lorena Lavarne, and their son, Josh.About Samurai Success:Samurai Success, headquartered in Lakewood, Colorado, is dedicated to one core mission: your success. The name "Samurai" is loosely translated as "in service of others," reflecting the company's philosophy of empowering clients to achieve their fullest potential. Over the past 25 years, Samurai Success has worked with more than 400 companies and organizations across the United States and abroad, helping them develop strategies and systems that foster sustainable growth and productivity. Even during challenging economic times, Samurai Success clients have experienced record growth by implementing proven methods for success, with many praising the company for its ability to simplify complex ideas and guide them toward seemingly unattainable goals.At its heart, Samurai Success is a research-driven organization. The company investigates the behaviors and motivations of people, recognizing that trends in business, sales, economy, and society are shaped by human actions. This understanding allows Samurai Success to predict future developments and offer clients insights into emerging trends, enabling them to adapt and thrive. By blending these insights with the knowledge and expertise that clients already possess, Samurai Success crafts tailored systems that produce extraordinary results. Ultimately, Samurai Success is in service of your success, guiding clients to realize their dreams and turn them into reality.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 Samurai Success website athttps://samuraisuccess.com/Check out Samurai Success on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/samurai-successCheck out David C. Olcott on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/david-c-olcott-1107bb1/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.