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. 

Mastering Sales: Embrace Authenticity and Build Meaningful Connections In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages with Justine Beauregard, a seasoned sales strategist and the voice behind the "People Over Profits" podcast. Their discussion centers on the significance of building authentic relationships in sales, emphasizing a sales approach that aligns with one's personality. Justine shares her journey, influenced by her entrepreneurial grandmother, which led her to discover that her ability to connect with people was her greatest asset in sales. This realization shaped her belief that sales can be an authentic expression of care for others. Justine's core philosophy, "people over profits," underscores the importance of prioritizing relationships for sustainable business growth. She advises sales professionals to focus on understanding and catering to the needs of others, creating meaningful interactions that lead to successful outcomes. Justine also addresses common sales anxieties, encouraging entrepreneurs to view sales as a conversation rather than a transaction. By shifting their mindset and actively listening, individuals can alleviate the pressure associated with traditional sales tactics and foster a more relaxed atmosphere. To support entrepreneurs in enhancing their sales skills, Justine offers various resources, including her podcast and a 14-day sales challenge. She also hosts speed networking events to help individuals practice their networking and sales skills in a supportive environment. By embracing these principles and leveraging available resources, entrepreneurs can transform their approach to sales, making it a more natural and rewarding part of their business journey. About Justine Beauregard: Meet Justine. She’s an expert sales coach + trainer who can help you close more sales with fewer objections by designing a sales process that fits you. She’s known for her ability to create meaningful connections and value quickly and has helped her clients reach up to 2,300% higher revenue in under 6 months.   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 Justine Beauregard's website at https://www.justinebeauregard.com/ Check out Justine Beauregard on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinejbeauregard/   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.  

From Burnout to Breakthrough: Revolutionizing Your Business with AI In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh Elledge interviewed Jason Sherman, a tech startup founder, author, and podcaster, to delve into the complexities of entrepreneurship. This episode is packed with insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, offering practical advice and expert recommendations. The conversation provides a detailed guide to help navigate the entrepreneurial journey, breaking down key themes and tips discussed during the episode. The Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast connects business owners and professionals with valuable resources such as partners, investors, influencers, and clients. Josh Elledge believes that everyone has a unique message that can positively impact the world, a mission reflected in Jason Sherman's extensive experience and insights. As the CEO and co-founder of tech startups Spinner and Vengo AI, and author of "Strap on Your Boots," Jason shares his entrepreneurial philosophy, marked by learning from both successes and failures, and his dedication to helping others succeed. Jason highlights the importance of viewing every project as a learning opportunity, regardless of its outcome. He stresses the significance of data-driven decision-making in entrepreneurship, explaining that validating business ideas through data is crucial for success. He discusses the development of Vengo AI, a platform for creating AI versions of oneself, and underscores the value of surrounding oneself with knowledgeable advisors, mentors, and team members. The conversation also explores current trends, noting the potential in less obvious, behind-the-scenes services, despite the allure of flashy ideas. About Jason Sherman: Jason Sherman is a successful entrepreneur, award winning filmmaker, journalist and tech startup expert. He has been featured by more than 10 media outlets including the Wall Street Journal, USA Today, FOX News, and ABC News. He is fluent in Spanish, is a classically trained violinist, and is a regular speaker on FOX's Futurist TV Show: Xploration Earth 2050. Jason runs a technology consulting company and film studio from Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. He has given guest lectures at Drexel University, Temple University, and University of Pennsylvania, as well as several hackathons and tech meetups. His methodologies on entrepreneurship and data driven decisions are his main source of education to those he helps all around the world. His new book Strap on your Boots is the culmination of his life's work to help other entrepreneurs succeed and is the focus of his course Startup Essentials, on Udemy. Jason's feature length films have won film festivals and are currently being distributed worldwide in thousands of retail stores and OnDemand in millions of homes. Jason had also carved out a career as a well known music producer in the late 90s when he performed around the world. An asset to the Philadelphia tech community, Jason enjoys mentoring other entrepreneurs and helping small business owners succeed. He volunteers his time and skill set to the Philadelphia tech community on a regular basis. His interests include technology, film, music, writing, traveling, going to cultural events, staying active, learning new things, and his Shih-Tzu Wolfgang. Specialties: Information Technology, Multimedia, Start ups, Web and Graphic Design, Mobile Apps, Networking, Film & Music Production, Sales, Branding, Search Engine Optimization, and much more. About Spinnr: Spinnr is a video friendship app to enjoy activities with new friends and groups who share your hobbies and interests. About Vengo AI: At Vengo, the team believes that AI-powered conversations with personality represent the ultimate sales tool. Their philosophy centers on the idea that technology should not only be powerful but also accessible and personable. Vengo envisions a world where AI transcends its role as a mere tool, becoming a partner that embodies the unique voice and personality of each business, thereby making interactions feel authentic and human. By integrating AI that reflects the essence of a brand, Vengo helps businesses future-proof their operations and enhance sales, allowing for seamless integration in just 30 seconds to close deals faster. Vengo is supported by top-tier companies such as Microsoft, Nvidia, and OpenAI. The organization has assisted numerous businesses, influencers, and entrepreneurs in creating and customizing their own AI identities, transforming customer interactions into valuable engagements. Their clients include companies seeking to automate customer service, enhance marketing efforts, and increase sales through personalized AI interactions. Committed to democratizing AI, Vengo strives to make it a force for good, accessible to everyone regardless of background or resources. Their mission is to empower businesses of all sizes to leverage cutting-edge AI technology to achieve their goals and foster a more connected, efficient, and inclusive world. 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 Spinnr website at https://spinnr.app/ Check out Spinnr on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/appspinnr Check out Vengo AI website at https://www.vengoai.com/index.html Check out Vengo AI on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/company/vengoai Check out Jason Sherman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonsherman76 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 New SEO Landscape: Adapting to AI and Changing Consumer Behavior In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Nick Musica, the founder and CEO of Optics In, LLC., a company specializing in SEO services. The episode delves into the current landscape of SEO, the challenges posed by emerging AI technologies, and practical strategies for businesses, particularly small enterprises, to improve their online presence. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Nick Musica, providing a comprehensive guide for businesses looking to enhance their SEO efforts. Nick Musica, based in San Diego, brings a wealth of experience in the SEO field. His company, Optics In, LLC., primarily serves small businesses, typically those with around 50 employees or fewer. Nick's insights are grounded in his extensive work with a diverse range of clients, making his advice particularly relevant for small business owners. One of the main themes of the episode is the misconception that SEO is "dying." Nick explains that while many marketing channels have faced challenges and changes over the years, SEO remains vital. People still use search engines like Google to find products and services, making SEO an essential component of any digital marketing strategy. Nick acknowledges that the SEO landscape is shifting due to the rise of AI tools like ChatGPT and platforms such as TikTok. While some users may turn to these alternatives for information, a significant number still rely on traditional search engines. Therefore, businesses must adapt their strategies to meet their audience where they are. Nick discusses the implications of AI on SEO practices, noting that many businesses have attempted to leverage AI to generate content at scale. However, this often results in poor-quality material that fails to meet Google’s standards. While AI can be a useful tool for brainstorming and content structuring, it should not replace the need for high-quality, relevant content. About Nick Musica: Optics In, LLC's founder and CEO is Nick Musica, who has worked in digital marketing since 2003. Nick co-authored When Search Meets Web Usability, a book about SEO and web usability, in April of 2009. He taught a masters-level class on User Experience at NYU and has presented at SMX in Germany and ClickZ in San Francisco. About Optics In, LLC: Optics In, LLC has been assisting websites in improving their rankings on Google, Bing, and other search engines since 2019. The company is headquartered in North County San Diego, specifically in Carlsbad, California. They serve a diverse clientele, working with businesses locally, across the United States, and internationally. 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 Optics In, LLC. website at https://opticsin.com/ Check out Optics In, LLC. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/optics-in-llc/ Check out Nick Musica on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickmusica 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 Current State of Podcasting: A Comprehensive Guide In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Jeff Umbro, the CEO of Podglomerate. Jeff shared his extensive knowledge about the podcasting industry, offering valuable insights into its growth, best practices for independent podcasters, and effective monetization strategies. This blog post will break down the key points discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you navigate the podcasting landscape. Jeff begins by highlighting the impressive growth of podcasting over the past 16 years. According to the Edison Infinite Dial Report, approximately 132 million people in the U.S. listen to podcasts regularly, averaging about seven shows each month. This growth has been further accelerated by the pandemic, which increased streaming audio consumption. Podglomerate, founded in 2017, is a podcast services company that focuses on producing, marketing, and monetizing podcasts. They work with a diverse range of clients, from large corporations like Netflix and PBS to small businesses and individual creators. Jeff emphasizes that their goal is to help podcasters create high-quality content and effectively reach their target audience. Jeff also discusses the recent consolidation in the podcasting industry, with major players like Spotify, SiriusXM, and Apple acquiring smaller companies. This consolidation has led to a shift in the types of shows being produced, with a growing focus on ad sales and listener engagement. Despite these changes, advertising on podcasts remains highly effective. Jeff notes that podcast ads often outperform other digital mediums, attracting more brands to the space. He emphasizes the importance of creating quality content that resonates with listeners and advises podcasters to focus on engagement metrics such as social media mentions, listener feedback, and overall consumption patterns. For those with limited budgets, Jeff recommends leveraging owned properties like websites, newsletters, and social media to promote their shows and suggests cross-promotion with similar shows as a more effective strategy for audience growth. About Jeff Umbro: Jeff Umbro is the founder and CEO of The Podglomerate, the award-winning company which produces, distributes, and monetizes podcasts. The Podglomerate is a boot-strapped organization which now works with more than 70 podcasts and more than 30 million monthly podcast downloads. Jeff has written for and been quoted in Bloomberg, Morning Brew, Adweek, Quartz, Hot Pod, Paste, The Daily Dot, and more. Prior to launching the Podglomerate, Jeff had his hands in audience growth and business development for companies like Product Hunt, Serial Box, VotePlz, Talkshow, and Goldberg McDuffie Communications. About Podglomerate: The Podglomerate has been producing, distributing, and monetizing podcasts since 2016. Now representing more than 70 podcasts accounting for over 30 million monthly downloads, The Podglomerate’s clients have topped the podcast charts and have received features on every major podcast distribution app and national coverage in print, digital, radio, and television. The Podglomerate has worked with Freakonomics Radio, PBS, NPR, A+E, Lifetime, History Channel, Harvard Business School, MIT, Stanford, Lit Hub Radio, NPR stations (including KPCC/LAist, NHPR, WHYY, WUNC, VPM, WPM, GBH), WNET, Substack, Magnificent Noise, Expedia, Optum, CVS Health, Hubspot, and Hoff Studios, among many others. 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 Podglomerate website at https://podglomerate.com/ Check out Podglomerate on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/podglomerate/ Check out Jeff Umbro on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffumbro 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.