The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Unlocking Opportunities: The Power of Business Certifications for Diverse Entrepreneurs   In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the transformative potential of business certifications for diverse entrepreneurs. Featuring insights from three speakers, including our host, Heather Cox, the president and co-founder of Certify My Company, and an unnamed participant, this episode sheds light on how certifications can open doors to new business opportunities, particularly for women-owned, minority-owned, veteran-owned, and other underrepresented businesses. Our host kicks off the episode by emphasizing the importance of networking and connections for business owners. Drawing from their extensive experience with over 2,000 leaders, they highlight how certifications can serve as a powerful tool for accessing new contracting opportunities without relying on traditional sales tactics. The host offers a free video resource to help business owners achieve 100% inbound business and invites listeners to explore the podcast for valuable insights.   Heather Cox, the president and co-founder of Certify My Company, shares her passion for supporting underestimated entrepreneurs. Founded 14 years ago, her organization acts as a "cheerleader" for these business owners, helping them navigate the complex landscape of certifications and educational programming. The goal is to prepare these entrepreneurs for larger contracts with both government entities and private sector companies. Heather explains that not all certifications are created equal. The right certification can significantly impact a business's ability to secure contracts. Understanding the specific goals and target markets of entrepreneurs is crucial in guiding them toward the most beneficial certification. Heather outlines the five main demographics eligible for certifications: Women-Owned Businesses, Ethnic Minorities, LGBTQ+ Owned Businesses, Veteran-Owned Businesses, and Disability-Owned Businesses. The conversation shifts to the broader implications of certifications in the contracting world. Heather explains that studies have shown companies with diverse supply chains tend to have better returns on investment (ROI). This is particularly relevant for Fortune 1000 companies, which are increasingly recognizing the value of working with diverse suppliers. The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the importance of local and diverse businesses, as they often stepped in to fill gaps when larger companies could not meet demand. Certifications serve as proof of a business's legitimacy and ownership by individuals from diverse demographics. This vetting process is crucial for companies looking to diversify their supply chains and meet shareholder expectations. The episode concludes with a strong message about the power of certifications for diverse entrepreneurs, emphasizing that certifications represent a commitment to diversity and inclusion in the business landscape. About Heather Cox: Heather Cox is a passionate advocate for diversity and a dynamic business executive. As co-founder and president of Certify My Company, she launched the venture to address the challenges small, diverse businesses face in the WBE certification process. Heather connects diverse businesses with corporations eager to partner with them, while also educating companies on best practices in supplier diversity. With over a decade of experience in sales and operations, primarily with small to medium-sized businesses, Heather is a natural teacher and engaging public speaker. She actively participates in organizations like the Women’s Business Enterprise Council – West and has previously held roles with the Women Presidents’ Educational Organization and the National Association of Women Business Owners. Outside of her professional commitments, Heather enjoys family time with her husband and five children. A former acro-gymnast and tightrope walker, she balances her busy life through yoga, DIY projects, and baking. She holds a BA in Spanish Language from the University of Texas at Austin and is a seasoned traveler.   About Certify My Company: Certify My Company is dedicated to the supplier diversity community as a whole as its works with companies and corporations to raise the bar. In addition to certification resources, Certify My Company assists larger companies in developing a supplier diversity program and increasing their diversity spend. We develop innovative solutions for Corporations to get their classified suppliers certified and their spend numbers in the billions. No matter what your supplier diversity or certification needs are, Certify My Company is here to help you achieve your goals and more. Certify My Company is dedicated to providing thorough and timely services to its clients in order to expedite their goals. With years of experience, you can count on well-trained staff members to apply the attention to detail and expertise you need and to stay with you through the entire process and beyond.   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 Certify My Company website at https://www.certifymycompany.org/ Check out Certify My Company on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/certify-my-company/ Check out Heather Cox on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/certifymycompany/ 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 E-commerce Logistics: How to Transforms Fulfillment for Brands In the ever-evolving world of e-commerce, logistics and fulfillment play a crucial role in ensuring customer satisfaction and operational efficiency. In a recent podcast episode, Ash Jamshidpour, the founder and CEO of ShipTop, shared his expertise on the current state of e-commerce logistics, the benefits of partnering with a third-party logistics provider, and the innovative solutions that ShipTop offers. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, providing valuable insights and actionable advice for e-commerce brands looking to optimize their logistics operations. ShipTop is a third-party logistics (3PL) and e-commerce fulfillment provider based in Canada, specializing in helping e-commerce brands and online merchants with their logistics and order fulfillment needs. The company offers a wide range of services, including ocean freight and fulfillment across North America, catering to both business-to-consumer (B2C) and business-to-business (B2B) needs. With strategically located fulfillment centers across the U.S. and Canada, ShipTop efficiently serves U.S. consumers, ensuring timely and cost-effective delivery. The e-commerce logistics sector is dynamic and rapidly evolving, and companies like ShipTop are continuously striving to innovate and find efficiencies to stay ahead of the competition. Many clients come to ShipTop after either managing fulfillment in-house or working with other third-party logistics providers. They often seek a more customizable solution that can better meet their specific needs. ShipTop focuses on providing tailored fulfillment solutions, helping clients reduce costs and improve transit times. Partnering with ShipTop offers several advantages over building out a company's own logistics infrastructure, including economies of scale and streamlined operations. Ash expresses excitement about the potential of technology, particularly AI and machine learning, to transform logistics operations. By leveraging AI and robotics, they aim to enhance efficiency, reduce fulfillment times, and lower costs, ultimately helping their clients compete more effectively against e-commerce giants.   About Ash Jamshidpour: Ash Jamshidpour is the President and CEO of ShipTop, a leading North American e-commerce fulfillment service producer that launched in 2022. A Vancouver native, Ash graduated from the University of British Columbia, majoring in accounting and finance. He transitioned from an accounting job at Deloitte (2016-2020) to entrepreneurship, fueled by a passion for e-commerce that sparked during his college internship at a furniture dropshipping company. Ash's first venture, Bursera, an e-commerce brand focusing on sustainable aromatherapy, had immersed him in the world of retail, logistics, and e-commerce. Recognizing the challenges multi-channel e-commerce merchants face in shipping and logistics, Ash founded ShipTop in 2021 to provide scalable, efficient solutions. Now in its third year, ShipTop generates over $20 million in revenue, driven by a mission to empower e-commerce merchants through advanced technology and exceptional customer service.   About ShipTop: ShipTop is your trusted partner in omnichannel fulfillment, offering end-to-end logistics solutions from eCommerce and B2B distribution to retail fulfillment and ocean freight. We deliver a seamless experience, taking your products from origin to final mile. By combining cutting-edge technology, strategic warehouse locations, and a customer-first approach, we set new standards for reliability, agility, and client success in logistics. Our comprehensive services include direct-to-consumer fulfillment, B2B distribution, and tailored freight solutions, empowering businesses of all sizes to thrive in the digital economy. Rooted in integrity and transparency, ShipTop builds enduring partnerships based on trust, ensuring excellence and care in every interaction. 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 ShipTop website at https://shiptop.com/ Check out ShipTop on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/shiptop Check out Ash Jamshidpour on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/ashjamshidpour 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 Critical Importance of Intellectual Property Protection for Businesses and Innovators In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling discussion with Daniel Scola, the managing partner of Hoffman & Baron LLP, a law firm specializing in intellectual property (IP) protection. The conversation centers around the critical importance of safeguarding intellectual property for businesses and innovators. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners who are seeking connections with partners, investors, influencers, and clients to explore his services. He shares his extensive experience, having had private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to understand where their best business opportunities arise. 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. After the introduction, Josh welcomes Daniel Scola to the podcast. Daniel is introduced as the managing partner of Hoffman and Baron LLP, and listeners are directed to the firm’s website for more information. Daniel expresses his gratitude for the opportunity to join the conversation. Daniel explains that his firm focuses on protecting clients' ideas through various forms of IP, including patents, trademarks, and copyrights. He emphasizes that ideas are foundational to society and business, serving as the driving force behind innovation and economic growth. Daniel highlights that many businesses overlook the significance of IP, which can create competitive advantages and barriers to entry in the market. He shares success stories, such as a group of doctors who developed a groundbreaking medical device for treating atrial fibrillation (AFib) and secured hundreds of patents, ultimately selling their IP to a major company for over $250 million. Daniel also outlines the key steps in securing a patent and stresses the importance of confidentiality agreements when discussing ideas with potential partners or investors.     About Daniel Scola: Daniel Scola is a seasoned intellectual property professional with particular expertise in developing, procuring, and defending IP estates across patents, trademarks, and copyrights. He has extensive experience representing clients before courts and various Patent Offices worldwide. Daniel specializes in post-grant proceedings, including Inter Partes Review (IPR), Derivation, and Post Grant Review (PGR) cases. His practice encompasses a wide range of opinion work, including freedom-to-operate assessments, patentability evaluations, validity determinations, and non-infringement analyses. Daniel also conducts thorough IP due diligence investigations and negotiates technology agreements, IP licensing agreements, and entertainment contracts. With in-depth knowledge of foreign patent and trademark oppositions, he has a proven track record in EPO Oppositions and Appeals, positioning him as a valuable asset in the field of intellectual property law.     About Hoffman & Baron, LLP: A full-service law practice specializing in all areas of intellectual property, both domestically and internationally. They prioritize quality without compromise, providing a cost-effective approach to achieve the most favorable outcomes for their clients. Guided by principles of commercial success, efficiency, and discipline, they navigate the complexities of IP law. Founded in 1984 by co-founders and partners Charles R. Hoffmann and Ronald J. Baron, the firm has established offices in New York, New Jersey, and Washington D.C. It serves clients globally across various scientific and engineering fields.   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 Hoffman & Baron, LLP website at https://www.hbiplaw.com/ Check out Hoffman & Baron, LLP on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hbiplaw/ Check out Daniel Scola on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielscola/ 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 Inner and Outer Game of Success   In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Dr. Noah St. John, a prolific author and founder of SuccessClinic.com. Known as "Doctor Noah," he has written over 25 books, including his latest, "The Seven Figure Expert." Dr. Noah specializes in helping entrepreneurs and business leaders achieve significant financial growth while reclaiming their personal lives. This episode delves into the dual aspects of success: the "inner game" and the "outer game." Dr. Noah St. John is a renowned expert in personal and professional development. His unique approach focuses on helping clients make more money in just 12 weeks than they did in the previous year, all while maintaining a balanced life. He challenges the conventional hustle culture that promotes relentless work without breaks, advocating instead for a balanced approach where business serves the individual, not the other way around. The inner game refers to the mental and emotional aspects of success, including mindset, beliefs, and emotional states that influence actions and decisions. According to Dr. Noah, a staggering 90% of success stems from mastering the inner game. A significant part of the inner game is what Dr. Noah refers to as "head trash," which describes the negative self-talk and limiting beliefs that hinder individuals from pursuing their goals. By recognizing the impact of head trash, individuals can begin to take steps to eliminate it from their mindset. Dr. Noah also stresses the importance of emotional motivation, urging people to concentrate on the emotions associated with their goals rather than just the material aspects. Additionally, he highlights the power of gratitude, sharing a personal story from 2007 when he faced significant financial challenges and realized the importance of focusing on what he still had. For those interested in diving deeper into these concepts, Dr. Noah's new book, "The Seven Figure Expert," is available for free (with shipping costs) at sevenfigureexpertbook.com.   About Dr. Noah St. John: NOAH ST. JOHN, PhD is known as “The Father of AFFORMATIONS®” and “The Mental Health Coach to The Stars.” He’s also CEO of SuccessClinic.com, a global peak performance and business growth company. Working with Hollywood celebrities, 8-figure company CEOs, professional athletes, top executives and elite entrepreneurs, Noah’s coaching clients have added more than $2.8 Billion dollars in sales since 1997 by following his legendary methods. Noah is the only author in history to have works published by HarperCollins, Hay House, Simon & Schuster, Mindvalley, Nightingale-Conant, and the Chicken Soup for the Soul publisher. Noah’s mission is to eliminate not-enoughness from the world and he is internationally recognized for his signature coaching services; facilitating workshops at companies and institutions across the globe, and appearing on over 1,000 media outlets including ABC, NBC, CBS, Fox, The Hallmark Channel, NPR, PARADE, SUCCESS, Entrepreneurs on Fire, The Jenny McCarthy Show, Woman’s Day, Los Angeles Business Journal, Entrepreneur, Thrive Global, Selling Power and The Huffington Post. Noah is also famous for inventing AFFORMATIONS® - a new technology of the mind – and helping busy people enjoy more wealth, health, and happiness with less stress.   About "The Seven Figure Expert": In this book, you'll discover the exact strategies that legendary business coach Dr. Noah St. John used to transform his business and personal life. You'll learn his iconic 7-Figure Expert Formula and how to leverage the 5 Focus Factors to achieve more impact, influence, and financial freedom. Dr. Noah St. John has been at the forefront of the expert industry for more than 25 years and has invested over $672,168.50 to learn the secrets of the world's most successful experts. Now he’s on a mission to empower people to put their business on autopilot so they can be present for their loved ones while giving back generously. In The 7-Figure Expert, you’ll discover how to break through your income ceiling, create multiple streams of income, and make money on autopilot without wasting any more time and money listening to the “gurus.” Whether you're just starting out or you're already a successful entrepreneur, The 7-Figure Expert will help you unlock your true potential and achieve the life you've always dreamed of. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the world's leading experts in business and personal growth.   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 Dr. Noah St. John's website at https://noahstjohn.com/ Check out "The 7 Figure Expert" book website at https://7figureexpertbook.com/free-book-secure Check out Dr. Noah St. John on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/in/noahstjohn/ 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 Sales Success: The Key to Structuring Your Sales Process   In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Kayvon Kay, a renowned business growth consultant and the founder and CEO of The Sales Connection. The discussion delved into the critical challenges that founders face when transitioning from being deeply involved in sales to effectively managing a sales team. Kayvon shared invaluable insights on optimizing sales processes, the significance of structured onboarding, and the common pitfalls that can arise when hiring sales personnel. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide business owners and founders. Kayvon Kay began by explaining the mission of The Sales Connection. The agency specializes in helping coaches, consultants, and business owners enhance their sales teams' performance. They offer tailored solutions, whether that involves building an entire sales department from scratch or working directly with business owners to free them from the sales process, allowing them to focus on managing their companies. Kayvon emphasizes that simply hiring a salesperson is not a panacea for sales challenges. In fact, it can lead to more problems if not approached correctly. Kayvon stresses the necessity of having a well-defined sales process in place before bringing in new sales personnel. Many founders mistakenly believe that a good salesperson can thrive in an unstructured environment. However, without a solid sales process to support them, new hires are often set up for failure. He also highlights common mistakes, such as expecting salespeople to fix marketing problems, lack of structure, and hiring the wrong fit. By implementing structured onboarding programs, clear sales goals, and a thorough hiring process, founders can transition from being sales-driven to focusing on broader business goals, ultimately leading to sustainable business growth.   About Kayvon Kay: Kayvon Kay, a force of nature in the sales world, turning every challenge into a win and every opportunity into gold. Growing up in a tough town, he didn’t just overcome obstacles; he used them as stepping stones to greatness, training over 30,000 sales professionals and skyrocketing a business to $38 million swiftly. Kayvon isn’t just about hitting numbers; he’s about changing the game. His book, "Becoming Unbreakable," is more than a guide—it's a philosophy that transforms setbacks into successes and obstacles into victories. Starting from the grassroots of sales to becoming a linchpin for scaling companies, Kayvon’s path is a testament to resilience and strategic genius. He’s not just at the peak of his career; he’s a beacon for others, guiding the way to success. Prepare to be inspired by Kayvon’s journey, where sales are about meaningful connections, success is about relentless pursuit, and every day is an opportunity to be extraordinary.   About The Sales Connection: The firm specializes in remote outsourced sales and sales management, focusing on building, training, and optimizing sales departments for its clients. It scales companies through unmatched recruitment, onboarding, and CRM systems, delivering measurable and significant sales improvements for each partner. Having trained over 15,000 sales professionals across more than 100 countries, the firm empowers top-performing salespeople and teams to become unstoppable in their pursuits. 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 Sales Connectionwebsite at https://thesalesconnection.com/ Check out The Sales Connection on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/startconnectingnow/ Check out Kayvon Kay on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kayvonkay 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 Hospitality Staffing Landscape   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh delves into the intricacies of the hospitality staffing industry with Kathleen Hurtubise, the CEO and founder of Aloha Hospitality Professionals (Aloha HP). Based in Hawaii, Aloha HP specializes in staffing for the hospitality, light industrial, and administrative sectors. Kathleen shares her unique approach to recruitment, the importance of soft skills, and innovative strategies to connect job seekers with employers. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from their conversation, offering actionable advice for business leaders in the hospitality industry and beyond. Kathleen highlights the pressing need for workers in the hospitality industry, where many companies struggle to find qualified candidates despite a large pool of potential employees. One of the standout strategies discussed is the concept of "exposure ships." This innovative approach involves organizing events where high school seniors can volunteer and gain exposure to various businesses. For example, at a recent festival in Hawaii that attracted 70,000 attendees, Aloha HP coordinated hundreds of high school seniors to volunteer. This allowed students to showcase their work ethic and skills in real-time to potential employers, creating a unique opportunity for both parties. Kathleen emphasizes the importance of soft skills, which she refers to as "beingness." Employers are increasingly looking for candidates who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also demonstrate qualities such as integrity, teamwork, and a genuine care for their work. Aloha HP has developed a set of "ten golden rules of aloha" that guide their hiring process. These rules emphasize the importance of showing up on time, being a team player, and having a strong work ethic. Kathleen asserts that organizations often get what they tolerate. If they accept mediocrity, that is what they will receive. At Aloha HP, there is a strong emphasis on punctuality and accountability. Employees are expected to arrive 15 minutes early for their shifts, reinforcing the idea that showing up on time is a fundamental aspect of professionalism. About Kathleen Hurtubise: An innovative force in the staffing and events management industries, Kathleen Lin-Hurtubise is the founder & president of Gourmet Events Hawaii (GEH), an award-winning full-service production, catering, and event management company, and Aloha Hospitality Professionals (AlohaHP), the first full-service staffing agency in Hawai'i dedicated to temporary and permanent placements in hospitality, entry-level administration, and light industrial work, as well as day labor support for caterers, stadiums, and venues.  As a businesswoman and yogini, Lin-Hurtubise is committed to providing #BestSelfThroughService, ensuring that the company’s temp team members are reliable and genuinely care about their work.  Prior to founding GEH and AlohaHP, Lin-Hurtubise served as the Field Office Director in Massachusetts, Alaska, and finally Hawaii, where she recruited and developed thousands of staff who mobilized communities around environmental and consumer issues. She also served as the Hawaii Director of the Muscular Dystrophy Association. She received her master’s degree in political science and government from the University of Hawai'i at Mānoa.  Lin-Hurtubise has presented at various conferences and special events, including the 2019 Special Event Conference in San Diego and the East Meets West Conference in Honolulu. She is a multiple-year recipient of Pacific Business News’ (PBN) Women Who Mean Business Award and the 31st Annual SBA Awards.  Kathleen Lin-Hurtubise, along with her husband and two sons, resides in the Bay Area of California, and frequently travels back to Honolulu, Hawaii, to work with her team at Office #1.   About Aloha HP: Aloha Hospitality Professionals (AlohaHP), the first full-service staffing agency in Hawai'i dedicated to temporary and permanent placements in hospitality, entry-level administration, and light industrial work, as well as day labor support for caterers, stadiums, and venues.    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 Aloha HP website at https://www.alohahp.com/ Check out Aloha HP on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/aloha-hospitality-professionals Check out Kathleen Hurtubise on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/kathleenhurtubise 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.  

Creating Inclusive Workplaces: Essential Strategies for Enhancing Accessibility   In the latest episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, the host delves into the critical topic of accessibility in business, particularly for neurodivergent individuals. The guest, Rebecca Prejean, CEO and founder of E.B. Graphics and Consulting, shares her expertise on making workplaces and online environments more accessible. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for businesses looking to improve their accessibility practices. Rebecca Prejean is introduced as the guest of the episode. With a decade of experience in the field, she is dedicated to ensuring that individuals with neurodivergent conditions can thrive in the workplace. Her consulting work focuses on making businesses more accessible, including improving website accessibility and creating inclusive internal and external assets. Rebecca explains that neurodivergence encompasses a wide range of conditions, including autism, ADHD, dyslexia, and even temporary disabilities such as color blindness or mobility issues. She emphasizes that billions of people worldwide are neurodivergent, and businesses must recognize the importance of accessibility to engage this significant demographic. Rebecca highlights that many companies overlook simple yet effective accessibility measures. For example, using alt text for images on websites allows individuals using screen readers to understand the content of images, thereby improving their overall experience. She also stresses that accessibility is not just a "nice to have" but a critical business strategy. By making their products and services accessible, businesses can tap into a broader market, leading to increased engagement and revenue. Rebecca concludes by inviting listeners to connect with her through her website, eBGC.net, where they can learn more about her consulting services and upcoming community initiatives focused on accessibility. About Rebecca Prejean: Rebecca Prejean is an experienced Accessibility Consultant committed to fostering inclusive and accessible environments for all. With a strong background in Learning & Development, she specializes in creating programs and resources tailored to support individuals with Autism, ADHD, Dyslexia, and other neurodivergent conditions. A passionate advocate for neurodiversity, [Name] strives to break down barriers and promote understanding in both professional and personal spheres, ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to thrive. About E.B. Graphics and Consulting: E.B. Graphics and Consulting is a team that transforms businesses with tailored accessibility solutions designed to enhance user experiences for everyone, particularly individuals with ADHD, Autism, Dyslexia, and other disabilities. They are dedicated to ensuring that products, services, and spaces are welcoming and functional for both employees and customers, fostering an inclusive environment that benefits all. 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 E.B. Graphics and Consulting website at https://www.ebgc.net/ Check out E.B. Graphics and Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/ebgconsults Check out Rebecca Prejean on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rbprejean/ 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 Healthcare with AI   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Areo Nazari, the co-founder and CEO of CaryHealth. The episode delves into the evolving landscape of the healthcare and pharmacy industry, with a particular focus on the specialty pharmacy sector. Areo shares valuable insights into CaryHealth's innovative approach to digital pharmacy, the integration of AI technology, and the company's strategic shift from a B2C to a B2B model. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers interested in the intersection of healthcare and technology. CaryHealth operates within a significant segment of the pharmacy industry, generating approximately $500 to $600 billion in revenue. Notably, around 70% of this revenue comes from specialty pharmacy, which deals with high-cost medications, often exceeding $1,000 per unit and reaching up to $1 million for advanced therapies like gene therapy. CaryHealth specializes in limited distribution drugs, which are typically not available at standard pharmacies like CVS or Walgreens. Instead, these medications are managed by specialty pharmacies, such as CaryHealth, that have the capability to handle these unique and often complex drug therapies. CaryHealth has established partnerships with regional health plans, such as CareFirst Blue Cross Blue Shield, and focuses on serving Medicaid and Medicare patients. Areo emphasizes the importance of quality measures in these programs, which assess how well health plans are performing in terms of patient health outcomes. This focus on quality and patient care is a cornerstone of CaryHealth's mission. One of the standout features of CaryHealth's digital pharmacy platform is its proprietary AI model named Claire. This AI-driven clinical reference tool allows healthcare providers to access a curated database of clinical studies, drug interactions, and FDA labels, ensuring that they receive evidence-based answers to their clinical questions. Areo highlights several key benefits of integrating AI into healthcare practices, including providing a reliable source of information, enhancing efficiency, and supporting clinical decision-making. By leveraging AI, CaryHealth aims to improve patient outcomes by providing healthcare providers with the most up-to-date information and recommendations. This episode provides valuable insights into the challenges and innovations within the specialty pharmacy sector, highlighting the role of technology and strategic partnerships in improving patient care and healthcare delivery. Areo Nazari's journey with CaryHealth serves as an inspiring example of adaptability and forward-thinking in the ever-evolving healthcare landscape.   About Areo Nazari: Areo Nazari is a seasoned professional with experience in the healthcare industry. From 2010 to 2013, Nazari held the role of Pharmacist in Charge at Rite Aid. From 2013 to 2017, Nazari worked as an Executive Team Leader - Pharmacy at Target. Since 2017, Nazari has been the Co-Founder & CEO of CaryHealth. Areo Nazari completed a Doctor of Pharmacy degree from the University of Maryland Baltimore in 2011. Prior to that, they obtained a BS in Biology from the University of Maryland in 2005.   About CaryHealth: CaryHealth is redefining the digital health landscape through its innovative AI-driven ecosystem, designed to optimize outcomes for the healthcare industry's key players, including pharmaceutical manufacturers, health plans, and health systems. With a suite of advanced solutions, such as OneDash, Clair, CaryConnect, and CaryRx, CaryHealth enhances the pharmacy experience, offers cutting-edge AI tools, and delivers real-time data insights. This approach underscores CaryHealth's commitment to advancing healthcare efficiency and effectiveness through their platform. 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 CaryHealth website at https://www.cary.health/ Check out CaryHealth on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/cary Check out Areo Nazari on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/areonazari 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 and Brand: The Key Elements of Effective Outbound Marketing   In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh sits down with Matt Cressman, the founder of Lead Storm AI and a LinkedIn marketing expert, to delve into the intricacies of outbound lead generation. This comprehensive blog post will break down the key takeaways from their conversation, offering actionable advice and detailed insights to help you optimize your outbound marketing strategies, particularly on LinkedIn. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore his resources for connecting with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He highlights his free video class available on Up My Influence, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in their industry over the next 6 to 8 months without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. Josh's methods have been successful for over 15 years, generating eight figures in revenue for his companies. Matt Cressman joins the conversation, introducing himself as a LinkedIn marketing expert and a connector specializing in outbound marketing. He shares his journey from leading an international nonprofit to founding Lead Storm AI, driven by a desire to start a podcast and connect with industry professionals. Matt founded Lead Storm AI to address the pain points he encountered while managing multiple marketing tools. Lead Storm AI combines marketing automation, CRM capabilities, and outbound marketing tools into a comprehensive platform. Key features include contact management, funnel building, and automation for LinkedIn outreach and cold emailing. Matt emphasizes the importance of building relationships and creating meaningful content. His approach to outbound marketing has evolved, particularly in response to changing buyer behaviors. He believes that having a strong brand and producing valuable content are essential for successful outbound lead generation. Matt discusses the shift in outbound lead generation strategies from 2019 to 2022, noting the decline of the golden era of outbound marketing. He highlights the need for hyper-personalization in messaging, stating that generic templates are no longer effective. Instead, marketers must leverage sophisticated tools to create personalized outreach that resonates with potential clients. Matt introduces his BCT framework, which stands for Brand, Content, and Trust. This framework is fundamental to successful outbound marketing: understand who you are as a brand, create valuable content that addresses the needs and pain points of your audience, and build trust with your audience through consistent and meaningful interactions. Josh raises the challenge of standing out in a crowded marketplace, where many professionals receive numerous unsolicited messages. Matt shares practical tactics for breaking through the noise, such as hyper-personalization, using intent data, leveraging LinkedIn events, and hosting your own events to provide value and attract potential clients.   About Matthew Cretzman: Matthew Cretzman is a seasoned entrepreneur and marketing expert, specializing in outbound marketing, LinkedIn strategies, growth hacking, and lead generation. Founder and CEO of  Stormbreaker Digital and LeadStorm AI.   About LeadStorm AI: LeadStorm AI's full suite of marketing and sales automation tools gives you everything you need to market your business, close more deals, and make more money.   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 LeadStorm AI website at https://www.leadstorm.ai/ Check out LeadStorm AI on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/leadstorm-ai/ Check out Matthew Cretzman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattcretzman 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 Financial Freedom and a Fulfilling LifeIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Aaron Marcum, a bestselling author and the founder of EntreThrive. The episode delves into Aaron's book, "EntreThrive," which outlines eight essential laws designed to help entrepreneurs achieve financial freedom while leading a fulfilling life. This blog post will break down each of these laws in detail, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide entrepreneurs on their journey to success.Josh opens the episode by sharing his extensive experience in the business world, having spoken with over 2,000 leaders about their best business practices. He offers a free video resource on his website, Up My Influence, aimed at helping entrepreneurs generate high-ticket sales appointments without relying on spam or ads. He then introduces Aaron Marcum, highlighting his background as a bestselling author and the founder of Entrethrive. Aaron's book, which features a foreword by renowned author Brian Tracy, is subtitled "An Entrepreneur's Eight Laws to Accelerate Financial Freedom While Creating the Good Life."Aaron begins by discussing the concept of "the good life," a term rooted in Aristotle's philosophy. For Aristotle, the good life transcends mere life satisfaction; it embodies living a life worth living, or "eudaimonia." This idea emphasizes the importance of a holistic approach to life, encompassing not just financial success but overall fulfillment. Aaron's insights into the good life were shaped during his Master of Applied Positive Psychology program at the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied under Martin Seligman, a leading figure in positive psychology. He emphasizes that the journey toward the good life involves understanding one's guiding truths—core beliefs that define who we are and what we aspire to be.About Aaron Marcum:Over the past 20 years, Aaron has founded and scaled award-winning, multi-million-dollar companies that have positively impacted thousands across North America. His entrepreneurial journey began in healthcare, where his visionary leadership in his second startup transformed the home care industry. He established the Best of Home Care® award program and created an innovative benchmarking platform that has become the industry standard.Aaron holds a Master's in Applied Positive Psychology from the University of Pennsylvania, where he studied under renowned experts like Dr. Martin Seligman. This transformative experience fueled his passion for helping fellow home care entrepreneurs thrive both personally and professionally.His Breakaway Accelerator coaching program is designed specifically for home care CEOs and their leadership teams, empowering them to think bigger, retain top talent, accelerate growth, and create abundant lives.A #1 Amazon and Barnes & Noble bestselling author, Aaron's book EntreThrive guides entrepreneurs on their journey to financial freedom while embracing what Aristotle called "The Good Life." He has been a sought-after keynote speaker since 2006, engaging entrepreneurial audiences with his insights and experiences.In his free time, Aaron enjoys road cycling and traveling the world with his wife, Heather, whom he married in 1996. They are proud parents to six beautiful children.About EntreThrive:EntreThrive is a transformative platform and community designed to guide and support entrepreneurs in prioritizing their well-being for both professional success and personal fulfillment.EntreThrive operates on the fundamental belief that just as entrepreneurial success demands business acumen and persistent diligence, so does one's well-being require daily attention and intentional effort. Through our innovative approach, we emphasize the importance of entrepreneurial well-being, highlighting the 8 Laws of EntreThrive—a comprehensive framework rooted in positive psychology and evidence-based practices.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 EntreThrive website athttps://entrethrive.com/Check out EntreThrive on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/entrethriveCheck out Aaron Marcum on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-marcumDon’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.