The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Navigating Leadership, Burnout, and Purpose   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Dennis Franczak, the founder and partner of Bright Matter Advisors. The discussion explores the complexities of leadership, personal growth, and the critical importance of understanding one's purpose in life and work. Dennis shares his personal journey through burnout as a CEO, the invaluable lessons he learned, and how he now dedicates his efforts to helping other executives navigate similar challenges. Dennis Franczak's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation. As a CEO for nearly two decades, he faced severe burnout that had been building over the years. In 2022, recognizing the toll it had taken on him, he decided to take a six-month sabbatical to focus on self-healing and reflection. During this time, he disconnected from the demands of his professional life and engaged in deep introspection, ultimately realizing that he had lost touch with his identity as a leader and family man. Upon returning to the professional world, Dennis transitioned into a chairman role at his former ad agency and founded Bright Matter Advisors. His mission is to assist executives in understanding their true selves, their relationships with their careers, and what they want to be known for. A significant theme in Dennis's journey is the need for vulnerability among leaders. He discusses how executives often feel pressured to maintain a facade of strength and control, which can prevent them from seeking help when they need it. Dennis emphasizes that being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a crucial step toward healing and growth. He encourages leaders to open up about their struggles and seek support before reaching a breaking point. At Bright Matter Advisors, Dennis works with high-performing professionals through one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and workshops, focusing on self-discovery, career alignment, and discovering their purpose and legacy.   About Dennis Franczak:   Dennis Franczak is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive advisor with a deep passion for meaningful impact and legacy. With over two decades of experience, Dennis has navigated the complex landscapes of advertising and business strategy, establishing himself as a thought leader in both fields. As the founder and former CEO of a highly successful advertising agency, he possesses extensive knowledge of the latest trends in advertising and brand strategy. Today, Dennis dedicates his expertise to CEO and executive advisory, helping leaders scale their businesses, optimize sales processes, and determine the right times to buy or sell their enterprises. Dennis's journey is marked by personal transformation. After experiencing burnout post-COVID and realizing the detrimental effects of maintaining a façade of the "perfect CEO," he took a six-month sabbatical to reconnect with his core values through therapy and self-reflection. This period of profound personal growth has equipped Dennis with unique insights into the challenges executives face, from loneliness and isolation to the struggle for authenticity in leadership. Driven by a desire to help others avoid the pitfalls he encountered, Dennis now emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, self-awareness, and leading with authenticity. His approach is a blend of practical business strategies and motivational guidance, aimed at fostering resilience and long-term success among executives and emerging leaders alike. He believes that true leadership is about creating a lasting, positive impact and leaving a meaningful legacy.   About Bright Matter Advisors:   Bright Matter Advisors is a team of former CEOs and executives who have been where you are. We've been in your shoes. We've had similar problems, challenges, failures, and successes. We remember the late hours, working on vacation, the stress that comes with our position, and of course making sure our people are taken care of. We've been stuck on a problem, whether it be growth, profitability, marketing, regulators, operational efficiency, sales. We could name dozens of more problems we've faced. But you get it. You've been there. We also remember the times when we wished we could talk to other people like us who've been where we are, who understand us, and get support from them. At times, being an executive can be isolating and lonely, and you have to put up brave front because everyone expects you to be perfect. Not here. Now you have a chance to work with people who you can share your struggles, get help, and find inspiration. Because we have been right where you are and we ended up achieving our goals. You can too. It's time to "level up" and enjoy your role knowing you have a group of colleagues who can relate to what you are going through, and help you unlock solutions that deliver previously unachievable results. The kind of results that change lives. The kind of results that turn leadership into legacy.   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 Bright Matter Advisors website at https://brightmatteradvisors.com/ Check out Bright Matter Advisors on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/bright-matter-advisors/ Check out Dennis Franczak on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dfranczak   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 Best Framework for Infinite Leadership and Personal Growth   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Kylee Leota, the founder and chief vision officer of "Elements 4 Success." The episode delves into the nuanced concepts of success and leadership, particularly through Kylee's innovative framework known as "infinite leadership." This framework comprises eight pillars designed to help individuals define and achieve their personal and professional goals. Below, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode.   Josh opens the episode by emphasizing the importance of thoughtful connections and networking for business growth. He shares his extensive experience of conversing with over 2,000 leaders to uncover the best sources of business success. Josh promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. This sets the stage for a deeper exploration of success and leadership with Kylee Leota. Kylee begins by sharing her perspective on success, quoting Earl Nightingale: "Success is the progressive ongoing realization of a worthy goal or ideal." She highlights that success is a deeply personal journey, varying from person to person. Many individuals become trapped in societal expectations of success, losing sight of their unique paths. Kylee's mission is to empower and inspire others to navigate their success journeys, both personally and professionally.   Kylee observes that many leaders struggle with a sense of unconscious existence, particularly in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. People often fall back into routine, going through the motions of daily life without making conscious choices. This lack of mindfulness can hinder personal growth and success. Kylee emphasizes the importance of self-reflection, starting with the first pillar of her infinite leadership model: Identity. She encourages individuals to ask themselves: Who am I at this moment? Where do I want to be in my journey? Understanding one's identity and aligning it with personal goals is crucial for progress. This self-awareness forms the foundation for conscious living and intentional decision-making.   About Kylee Leota:   Kylee Leota is the founder of Elements 4 Success – a global organisation delivering transformational experiences to individuals, teams, and businesses. Earl Nightingale defines success as “the progressive realisation of a worthy goal or ideal”. Kylee wishes to empower people of all ages so that they can develop the confidence, skills, and tools they require to live a life of their design and purpose. She believes that you have the knowledge within yourself to create success and gives you the right tools in your toolbox to help you make these goals and ideals, reality! After 20 years in the education sector, including leadership roles at both schools, and regional levels, Kylee wants to empower and have a positive impact, further than just the education sector: working collaboratively across sectors including complex behaviour, trauma and early intervention, as well as transition to work sectors. Her depth of experience and knowledge ensures she is adaptable to any industry. Kylee is a change management facilitator, specialising in sustainable behaviour changes for both individuals and teams. With a track record for results, Elements 4 Success has a long list of happy clients who have achieved their goals, a team renowned for its out of the box thinking and solution focused approaches.   About Elements 4 Success:   Elements 4 Success is a global organization delivering powerful experiences to individuals, teams, and businesses. Founded by Kylee Leota, Elements 4 Success delivers high-performance coaching, consultancy, and training programs that enable all to optimise growth through their journey of self-discovery, awareness, and development. Earl Nightingale defines success as “the progressive realisation of a worthy goal or ideal”. Elements 4 Success believes that you have the knowledge within you to create success and gives you the right tools in your toolbox to help you make these goals and ideals, reality. Leadership is a skill, not a position and at Elements 4 Success we believe that the principles of leadership, knowing yourself and others, are the foundations to creating the success you want in life.   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 Elements 4 Success website at https://elements4success.com.au/ Check out Elements 4 Success on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elements-4-success/ Check out Kylee Leota on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/kylee-leota-65a332100 Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!     More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.          

Mastering the Art of Hiring Talent   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages with Philip Rivers, co-founder of Talent HQ, to explore the intricacies of hiring talent, especially for small businesses. Philip shares his expertise on the common challenges business leaders encounter, emphasizing the importance of clear job descriptions and structured onboarding processes. This blog post distills key insights from their conversation, offering practical advice to help streamline your hiring process.   One of the main challenges small business owners face is identifying the right candidates, often due to unclear hiring needs. Philip highlights the necessity of defining specific skills and responsibilities for each role and crafting detailed job descriptions to attract suitable candidates. Additionally, he underscores the importance of a structured recruiting process, which includes initial screenings, structured interviews, and assessments to evaluate candidates' skills and fit for the role. Talent HQ assists businesses by streamlining these processes, ensuring a thorough understanding of client needs and implementing a rigorous vetting process.   Effective onboarding is crucial for the long-term success of new hires, yet many businesses overlook this step, leading to high turnover rates. Philip stresses the importance of documented Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), comprehensive training programs, and mentorship to help new hires integrate smoothly. Talent HQ supports businesses in developing robust onboarding processes, providing resources and continuous support to ensure new employees feel welcomed and equipped to succeed. By addressing these aspects, businesses can enhance their hiring outcomes and foster a positive work environment.   About Phillip Rivers:   Phillip Rivers launched his career in marketing and sales by designing and selling t-shirts timed with Nike Dunks releases on niche message boards. With no access to Facebook ads, Phillip mastered the art of building and monetizing email lists, laying the groundwork for his future achievements. Later on, Phillip founded an email marketing agency that drove over $200M in attributed revenue for its clients. The agency grew to nearly 8-figures and over 50 employees, leveraging global talent for outstanding results. A sought-after speaker and consultant, Phillip is renowned for his actionable insights in scaling businesses, optimizing email and SMS marketing, and uncovering easy marketing wins. His methodologies have propelled some of the fastest-growing brands online to explosive growth. Today, Phillip is using his processes for vetting top tier global marketing talent to help companies scale their output and margins with global talent.   About Talent HQ:   Leading staffing agency connecting global marketing talent to their dream jobs.   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 TalentHQ website at https://www.talenthq.co/ Check out TalentHQ on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-talenthq/ Check out Phillip Rivers on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/thephilrivers/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!     More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.      

Building a Brand That Resonates: Insights on Emotional Connections and B2B Marketing Trends   In this podcast episode, the host engages in a conversation with Rachel Minion, co-founder of Rockstarr and Moon, focusing on branding and B2B marketing strategies. Rachel highlights the significance of congruence in branding, using music as a universal connector to evoke emotional resonance. She elaborates on the process of filtering clients through brand messaging and offers insights into current B2B marketing trends, particularly emphasizing the effectiveness of LinkedIn newsletters and email lists. Rachel critiques disingenuous marketing practices and strongly advocates for transparency and setting realistic expectations. She shares her perspective on how authenticity in marketing can build trust and foster stronger client relationships. Her insights provide valuable guidance for businesses looking to refine their marketing strategies in a rapidly evolving landscape. The episode wraps up with reflections on the communal power of music and its profound impact on branding. Rachel underscores how music can unify and engage audiences, creating a lasting emotional connection that enhances brand identity. This discussion offers a fresh perspective on integrating music into branding efforts to strengthen emotional ties with clients and customers. About Rachel Minion:   Rachel Minion is a force to be reckoned with—a marketing rockstarr, a relentless cancer warrior, and a dynamic speaker who embodies resilience, raw honesty, and unapologetic truth. With over 20 years of experience in the marketing industry, Rachel has honed her expertise to become a powerhouse of no-nonsense insights and actionable strategies that resonate deeply with her audience. Rachel’s speaking style is direct, bold, and refreshingly real. She doesn’t just skim the surface; she dives deep into the complexities of life and work, tackling the tough topics that others shy away from. Whether navigating the unpredictable career journey, confronting the life-altering reality of a cancer diagnosis, or breaking free from societal expectations to find and amplify your unique voice, Rachel brings real talk to the table. As a speaker, Rachel Minion is here to do more than just inspire—she’s here to provoke thought, ignite passion, and challenge your audience to push beyond the superficial. Her talks are a powerful blend of authenticity, leadership, and courage, leaving listeners not just motivated but equipped to face adversity head-on and lead with unwavering passion.   About Rockstarr and Moon:   Their comprehensive services are tailored to meet current demands and ensure sustainable growth. Offers the expertise needed to jumpstart marketing efforts and drive growth. As a business expands and considers building an internal team, they will be there to provide support. They offer frameworks, playbooks, and guidance to ensure a smooth transition.   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 Rockstarr & Moon website at https://rockstarrandmoon.com/ Check out Rockstarr & Moon on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/rockstarr-and-moon Check out Rachel Minion on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachelminion   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.    

Coaching for Success: Why Every CEO Needs a Guide in Today’s Business Landscape   In a recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh explores the complexities of CEO leadership with Glenn Gow, a seasoned CEO success coach. With over 25 years of experience as a CEO and a background in venture capital, Glenn provides valuable insights into the unique challenges CEOs face today. The discussion highlights key themes such as managing responsibilities, people, and team dynamics, offering actionable advice for current and aspiring CEOs. Glenn Gow's extensive experience and passion for coaching CEOs are evident as he discusses the realities of the role. Many CEOs find themselves overwhelmed by unexpected responsibilities, such as managing boards and customer relationships, which may not align with their core competencies. Glenn emphasizes the importance of adaptive leadership skills, effective delegation, and building a strong leadership team to navigate these challenges. He also advises on preparing for economic uncertainty through budget constraints, scenario planning, and leadership readiness. The episode underscores the significance of coaching in enhancing CEO effectiveness. Glenn shares his personal experience with coaching, describing it as transformational, and highlights the benefits of skill enhancement, objective perspective, and accountability. He invites CEOs to consider a complimentary coaching session with him, emphasizing that coaching is valuable for both those facing challenges and top performers seeking new insights. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI on business, encouraging leaders to embrace new technologies for a competitive edge. Josh concludes by thanking Glenn and encouraging listeners to engage with the resources available on Glenn’s website and subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur for ongoing inspiration. About Glenn Gow:   Glenn Gow is The CEO Success Coach. He was a CEO for 25 years, a venture capitalist for 5 years, and was trained by a CEO coach for 17 years. He’s a Harvard MBA, a board member and an expert in AI. He is committed to his clients’ success. Glenn has spoken at The Wall Street Journal AI Conference, the National Association of Corporate Directors, MIT/Stanford Venture Lab, Harvard Business School, The Private Directors Association, Silicon Valley Directors Exchange, the Association for Corporate Growth, The Entrepreneur’s Organization, and the Northern California Venture Capital Association . He writes an AI column for Forbes and has been published in Directors & Boards, Directorship (NACD), The Chief Executive Group, Inc. Magazine, and InfoWorld. As a CEO for 25 years, he advised numerous leading tech companies including Apple, Google, Microsoft, and many more, on strategy.   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 Glenn Gow website at https://www.glenngow.com/ Check out Glenn Gow on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenngow   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.  

Protecting Your Business: The Importance of Intellectual Property in the Digital Age   In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh sits down with Matthew Fornaro, a seasoned business law attorney and founder of Matthew Fornaro, P.A.. The discussion delves into the critical legal considerations for small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs), emphasizing the importance of a solid legal foundation for business success. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Matthew, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide entrepreneurs in navigating the legal landscape of business ownership. Matthew Fornaro is introduced as a business law attorney with a focus on litigation (90%) and transactional work (10%). His practice primarily serves small and medium-sized businesses, helping them navigate various legal challenges throughout their business lifecycle. While most of his clients are based in Florida, he also assists businesses across the country. Matthew emphasizes the necessity of having proper legal documents in place for any business. Entrepreneurs often overlook foundational documents in their eagerness to start their ventures. Essential documents every business should have include bylaws, operating agreements, contracts, rental agreements, and licensing agreements. A key theme in Matthew's advice is the necessity of assembling a team of professionals to support business operations. Entrepreneurs should seek out a business law attorney, an accountant, and other specialists to ensure that all aspects of the business are managed effectively. This collaborative approach helps businesses navigate challenges more efficiently and positions them for success. Matthew encourages business owners to be proactive in their legal planning, including having an employee handbook, insurance, and compliance with regulations. By establishing these foundational elements, businesses can better manage potential issues before they escalate.   About Matthew Fornaro:   Matthew Fornaro has been a business law attorney serving South Florida, including Coral Springs and Parkland, since 2003. Prior to starting his own law firm, he was an attorney at a 300+ attorney civil practice law firm that served local, national, and international clients, and was also an attorney at a prestigious national law firm. Matthew practices complex commercial litigation, including contract disputes. Matthew, a member of the Florida Bar and District of Columbia Bar, also practices construction law, intellectual property law, homeowner and condominium association representation, and drafts and revises of business documents, including the formation of business organizations. Matthew assists new business owners in choosing and drafting all legally required documents. Matthew is involved in mentoring new attorneys, as both a graduate and instructor of the Kaufman Foundation’s FastTrac NewVenture Program, presented by the Broward County Office of Economic and Small Business Development and the City of Hollywood, as well as a graduate and instructor for the Florida State University College of Business Jim Moran Institute for Global Entrepreneurship Small Business Executive Program. As a small business owner himself, Matthew is proud of his representation of businesses in our community and is also available to assist in all transactional and litigation needs.   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 Matthew Fornaro, P.A. website at https://fornarolegal.com/ Check out Matthew Fornaro on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/matthew-fornaro-p.a./   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.      

Luxury Marketing Insights: A Comprehensive Guide In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages with Lillian Raji, president of the Lillian Raji Agency, to explore the intricacies of luxury marketing. With over two decades of experience in luxury public relations, Lillian shares her expertise on connecting with luxury consumers, emphasizing the emotional aspects of marketing and the critical importance of listening to clients. This blog post highlights the key themes from their conversation, offering actionable advice for businesses aiming to refine their luxury marketing strategies. Lillian Raji, a seasoned expert in luxury marketing, focuses on high-end brands in the watch, jewelry, and hospitality sectors. Her agency specializes in helping luxury brands forge deep emotional connections with consumers. During the podcast, Lillian discusses her journey, including her recent focus on the Olympics and her upcoming series, "How to Succeed in Watches if Your Name Isn't Rolex," which aims to spotlight lesser-known, high-quality watch brands. She underscores the significance of storytelling in luxury sales, sharing anecdotes that illustrate how effective storytelling can enhance product value and foster customer loyalty. A central theme of the discussion is the importance of emotional connections in luxury marketing. Lillian emphasizes that luxury marketing transcends the product itself, focusing instead on the story and emotions it evokes. She shares a personal experience with a Cartier watch, highlighting how luxury brands must create narratives that resonate with consumers. Additionally, Lillian stresses the value of listening to customers, recounting a successful client interaction that underscored the importance of understanding client needs. By embracing these principles, businesses can create meaningful connections with customers, enhance their marketing strategies, and achieve long-term success in the luxury market. About Lilian Raji: For over two decades, Lilian M Raji has served as strategic counselor and public relations advisor to some of the world’s leading luxury brands. She’s helped introduce S.T. Dupont to the U.S. market, aided the Quebec Government Delegation in promoting their artists to the broader American market, and handled the press launch of WatchBox -- with publicity from full page coverage in the New York Times, Bloomberg, Wall Street Journal and more, leading to the start up securing $100 million in funding. When brands have a story to tell, Lilian gets them in front of the widest, most qualied audience possible. She seamlessly integrates marketing, PR and sales to ensure every facet of a client’s strategy is harmoniously aligned and reinforced across all consumer-facing channels. Lilian delivers tailored, client-focused services with marketing blueprints customized to each client’s unique identity and aspirations. Her attention to detail is especially prized in the luxury sector, making her the quintessential choice for emerging and growing brands striving for distinction and excellence. In between showing clients how to make more money with existing and new customers, Lilian pens a regular column called,“Dear Lilian: e PR Advisor,” for National Jeweler Magazine. About The Lilian Raji Agency: For almost two decades, The Lilian Raji Agency has served as trusted business consultant, brand strategist and public relations manager for both small and global luxury brands worldwide. We provide brand strategy, public relations, marketing strategies, social media marketing, event marketing, and digital marketing for luxury and lifestyle brands. Our clients are in fine jewelry, luxury watches, high-end fashion, luxury hotels and other consumer goods and services. 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 Lilian Raji Agency website at https://www.lmrpr.com/ Check out The Lilian Raji Agency on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-lilian-raji-agency/ Check out Lilian Raji on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/today/author/lilianrajipr 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 the Potential of Franchising   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," John Romney, Vice President and shareholder of Franchise Creator, shared valuable insights into the franchising world. Franchise Creator, a leading franchise development firm in the U.S., has helped over 800 businesses transition to a franchise model with a streamlined process that takes about 120 days. John discussed the comprehensive support they offer, emphasizing that businesses don't need multiple locations or extensive experience to start franchising. Looking towards 2025, John predicts significant growth in the franchise sector, highlighting its resilience during economic downturns like the COVID-19 pandemic. The model's appeal lies in offering independence while providing support and structure, attracting those disillusioned with traditional corporate roles. The home services sector, in particular, is experiencing notable growth due to its lower startup costs and quick launch potential, making it an attractive option for aspiring franchisees. For those considering franchising, John advises self-reflection to understand one's experience, lifestyle, and investment capacity. Franchise Creator distinguishes itself by offering a wide range of franchise opportunities and a personalized approach, starting with an introductory call to understand candidates' needs. Engaging directly with Franchise Creator can provide clarity and insight, helping potential franchisees make informed decisions and find the right fit for their entrepreneurial journey.   About John Romney: John Romney is a leading authority in the franchising industry, recognized for his strategic insights and proven track record in scaling businesses. As Vice President and Shareholder at Franchise Creator, the nation's largest franchise development firm, John has consulted with over 1,000 business owners, successfully franchised more than 800 businesses, and facilitated the sale of thousands of franchises globally. His innovative approach to growth, leveraging cutting-edge marketing and expansion strategies has driven record breaking results across multiple industries. With deep expertise in tailoring franchise models, technology integration, and international business development, John is a dynamic thought leader who brings actionable strategies to every conversation. He’s not just a consultant— he’s a growth architect, passionate about empowering businesses to reach their full potential through franchising.   About Franchise Creator:   At Franchise Creator, the team offers business expansion strategies along with coaching and consulting services. For those interested in expanding their business through franchising, Franchise Creator provides a free consultation on how to franchise a business and expand into hundreds of locations without the need to invest personal money or resources. With years of experience in transforming local businesses into globally recognized franchise companies throughout the United States, Franchise Creator has all the necessary tools to help clients grow their businesses into national or international enterprises. Depending on individual needs, clients can choose to hire Franchise Creator to manage the entire franchise program—from inception and the development of franchise marketing and sales materials to franchise sales and marketing—or they can engage the company for specific tasks. Franchise Creator is led by Mr. Hossein Kasmai, an industry leader in the field of franchising. Mr. Kasmai has successfully franchised multiple concepts, growing them to over 170 locations across 11 countries in a remarkably short time. Many of these concepts have been recognized among the top 100 fastest-growing franchises and the top 500 franchises worldwide for several years.   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 Franchise Creator website at https://franchisecreator.com/ Check out Franchise Creator on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/franchise-creator Check out John Romney on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrromney 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 Growth Through Peer Groups In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages with Bob Carruthers, a Vistage Master Chair from Denver, Colorado, to discuss the concept of peer groups for business leaders, particularly through the organization known as Vistage. Bob, who has been involved with VisIn this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chief Executive Officer & Co Founder of GreenBanana SEO, Kevin Roy.tage since 1996, shares his extensive experience and provides valuable insights into the benefits of peer groups, the evolution of the organization, and the challenges faced by leaders today. The conversation highlights how Vistage connects top leaders in peer groups, allowing them to leverage each other's experiences and knowledge to navigate the complexities of being a CEO or key executive. Bob elaborates on the primary function of Vistage peer groups, emphasizing their role in providing a platform for successful CEOs from various industries to share insights and experiences. He highlights the benefits of collaborative decision-making, diverse perspectives, and a supportive environment that fosters innovation and learning. Reflecting on the evolution of Vistage, Bob notes its significant growth from approximately 500 chairs worldwide to operating in 35 countries with over 45,000 members, underscoring the effectiveness of the peer group model in facilitating business growth and leadership development. The episode concludes with Josh thanking Bob for sharing his insights and experiences as a Vistage Master Chair. The conversation underscores the value of peer groups in fostering business growth, enhancing leadership skills, and addressing the multifaceted challenges leaders face today. For those interested in exploring the benefits of Vistage, the organization offers a range of resources and opportunities for connection. Listeners are encouraged to subscribe to the podcast for daily inspiration and motivation and to explore resources available at upmyinfluence.com to achieve inbound success in their industries. About Bob Carrothers: With 29 years of experience, Bob facilitates peer-to-peer boards of CEOs and executives, creating environments conducive to skill enhancement, informed decision-making, and superior results. He offers individual coaching, arranges expert speakers, and provides access to a global network of over 45,000 board members spanning 35 countries. About Vistage: Vistage is the world’s largest CEO coaching and peer advisory organization for small and midsize business leaders. We offer the most effective approach to achieve better results, grow your company faster and maximize your impact as a leader. 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 Vistage website at https://www.vistage.com/ Check out Vistage on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/vistage Check out Bob Carrothers on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobcarrothers 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.  

Achieving Marketing Triumph: The Key Role of User-Generated ContentIn the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh interviews Nick Smith, president of Loud Canvas, a digital marketing company with over 20 years of experience. They discuss the evolution of marketing strategies, the rise of user-generated content (UGC), and the essential elements of successful partnerships between businesses and marketing providers. This blog post summarizes the key insights from the episode, providing actionable advice to enhance your marketing efforts.Nick Smith introduces Loud Canvas, highlighting its reputation for reliability and excellence in digital marketing. The company serves a diverse clientele, from small local businesses to Fortune 100 companies, and offers a comprehensive suite of services, including marketing strategy, implementation, data analytics, and reporting. This broad range of services allows Loud Canvas to cater to various industries and meet the unique needs of their clients. A significant trend discussed is the growing emphasis on UGC, which adds authenticity and can be cost-effective. Nick stresses the importance of tracking UGC performance through data analytics and establishing key performance indicators (KPIs) to refine marketing strategies.Josh highlights the extensive services offered by Loud Canvas, such as paid advertising, SEO, social media management, and video production. Nick explains how the company evolved into a full-service agency to meet client needs, emphasizing the importance of understanding client goals and offering customized solutions. He shares insights on choosing the right marketing partner, managing expectations, and ensuring transparency in reporting. The episode concludes with Nick inviting listeners to explore Loud Canvas's services and Josh encouraging listeners to subscribe for more inspiring content. This episode is a valuable resource for entrepreneurs seeking to enhance their marketing strategies and build meaningful partnerships in digital marketing.About Nick Smith:With more than 10 years of experience in the Information Technology (IT) industry, Mr. Nick Smith is a data-driven technology leader who delivers strategic operational and marketing results in volatile markets. Recent successes include the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) to rapidly generate insights for clients that would be unachievable via any other methodology. Leveraging his extensive expertise in a wide variety of digital disciplines, Smith has delivered hundreds of high yield digital tools and campaigns in the higher education, enterprise solutions, banking, and pharmaceutical industries. Whether acting as a team leader or member, he adheres to – and inspires – a ‘people first’ approach, clear communication, teachability, executional excellence, and a “whatever it takes” attitude. When he’s not building artificial neural networks or unraveling digital spaghetti, you can find him road tripping the country with his family, performing music, and debating the multiverse.About Loud Canvas:Loud Canvas Media is a local digital marketing company specializing in website design and development, SEO (Search Engine Optimization), and website hosting and support. With over 15 years of experience, the company has been dedicated to creating quality websites and enhancing social media and brand awareness for small businesses and non-profits.Each member of Loud Canvas possesses a specific set of complementary professional skills that combine to form an optimal team capable of managing projects of any size. From web design to mobile app development, and from social media marketing to search engine optimization, the team is equipped to tackle any web or digital marketing challenge.The company's guiding principles are communication, customer service, and support. Loud Canvas does not simply create a website and walk away; instead, they provide long-term hosting and support for their clients. By partnering with their clients, they welcome them into the Loud Canvas Family. This commitment ensures that not only is the website well cared for, but clients can also receive assistance with digital marketing, video production, and webmaster support.Together, the Loud Canvas team has the expertise to address any situation, ensuring that their clients' messages are heard loud and clear.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 Loud Canvas website athttps://loudcanvas.com/Check out Loud Canvas on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/loud-canvas-mediaCheck out Nick Smith on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/therealnicksmithDon’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.