The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

How to Successfully Work with Local Governments: Insights from Shane Silsby of Silsby Strategic AdvisorsIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Shane Silsby, CEO and Founder of Silsby Strategic Advisors and author of Managing for Meteors: Preparing Local Government Leaders Before the Impact. Shane shares his deep expertise on the evolving local government landscape, the challenges agencies face, and how businesses can position themselves as trusted, long-term partners. Listeners gain practical advice on building authentic relationships, navigating procurement, and offering strategic value beyond just the lowest bid.Building Trust and Value in Local Government PartnershipsShane explains that working effectively with local governments requires a clear understanding of their constraints, workforce challenges, and shifting leadership dynamics. He points to the “silver tsunami” of retirements and the influx of younger leaders as both a challenge and an opportunity for the private sector to bring fresh expertise. Businesses that research agency needs, approach with empathy, and provide specialized knowledge can fill critical gaps in skills and capacity.He emphasizes that procurement at the local level isn’t solely about price—it’s about qualifications, problem-solving ability, and alignment with the agency’s mission. Companies that lead with value, demonstrate a track record of success, and remain engaged beyond a single project are more likely to earn repeat work. Building relationships over time, rather than pushing for quick wins, creates trust and credibility that pays off in the long run.Shane also recommends that businesses tailor their approach to each agency’s unique situation, from offering fractional or project-based services to helping with disruption preparedness. He advises proactive engagement, sharing resources, and being honest about capabilities—even referring other providers when it’s a better fit. By doing so, businesses position themselves not just as vendors, but as indispensable partners in delivering better outcomes for communities.About Shane SilsbyShane Silsby is the CEO and Founder of Silsby Strategic Advisors and author of Managing for Meteors. With extensive leadership experience in public works and infrastructure, Shane helps local governments and private sector partners prepare for major disruptions, strengthen organizational capacity, and build sustainable solutions for community needs.About Silsby Strategic AdvisorsSilsby Strategic Advisors is a consulting firm specializing in helping local governments navigate disruption, address workforce challenges, and enhance service delivery. The firm also works with private sector companies to successfully engage with public agencies through strategic planning, relationship-building, and targeted expertise.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeSilsby Strategic AdvisorsManaging for Meteors – BookEpisode HighlightsLocal governments face generational shifts and workforce shortages, creating opportunities for private sector expertise.Procurement at the local level values qualifications and alignment over lowest price.Long-term relationships and trust are essential for sustained public sector partnerships.Businesses should consider offering fractional or project-based services to meet agency needs.Proactive disruption preparedness positions companies as valuable, strategic partners.ConclusionShane Silsby’s insights make it clear that winning with local governments is about more than contracts—it’s about understanding their world, anticipating challenges, and building relationships rooted in trust. By focusing on value, demonstrating expertise, and showing up before, during, and after major disruptions, businesses can become indispensable allies to public agencies and the communities they serve.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉View the platform » https://app.podverified.com/start/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Data-Driven B2B Growth in 2025: Insights from Hamlet Azarian of Azarian Growth AgencyIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge talks with Hamlet Azarian, CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, about how B2B companies can accelerate growth in 2025 using real-time data, AI integration, and signal-based marketing strategies. Hamlet explains how his team helps founder-led startups and mid-market companies break through revenue plateaus by aligning marketing and sales processes with timely, personalized outreach. This conversation reveals the specific tactics, tools, and mindset shifts businesses need to stay competitive in today’s fast-changing landscape.Leveraging Signals, AI, and Authenticity for Sustainable GrowthHamlet emphasizes that the traditional, linear sales funnel is being replaced by signal-based marketing, where businesses act on real-time indicators like industry news, contract awards, or leadership changes within target accounts. This approach enables highly relevant outreach that improves conversion rates and strengthens relationships. Azarian Growth Agency uses platforms like Clay, combined with CRMs such as HubSpot or Salesforce, to capture and act on these signals efficiently.Beyond signals, Hamlet shares how his agency has been “AI-first” since 2020, embedding artificial intelligence into marketing and sales workflows for everything from prospect research to content creation. By building “core files” containing brand guidelines, customer personas, and case studies, AI outputs remain accurate, on-brand, and strategically aligned. Human oversight ensures AI acts as a co-pilot, not a replacement, preserving quality and authenticity.For SaaS founders, Hamlet recommends a founder-led social media strategy to generate excitement and credibility before launch. By openly sharing the product journey—including both wins and challenges—leaders can build trust, encourage audience engagement, and create anticipation. Combined with Azarian Growth Agency’s selective onboarding process and complimentary exploratory audits, this authenticity-driven approach sets the foundation for long-term, sustainable growth.About Hamlet AzarianHamlet Azarian is the CEO of Azarian Growth Agency, a B2B marketing consultancy specializing in data-driven growth strategies. With a focus on real-time engagement, AI integration, and scalable processes, Hamlet has helped startups and mid-market companies across industries accelerate revenue growth and optimize marketing performance.About Azarian Growth AgencyAzarian Growth Agency partners with B2B companies to deliver predictable, scalable growth through data enrichment, automation, and signal-based marketing. Their services include marketing strategy, AI integration, sales enablement, and founder-led brand building. The agency works selectively with clients to ensure strong alignment and measurable impact, offering free exploratory audits to identify high-value growth opportunities.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeAzarian Growth Agency WebsiteHamlet Azarian on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsWhy traditional funnels are being replaced by signal-based marketing.How AI can accelerate marketing and sales without replacing human judgment.The importance of core files to train AI agents effectively.Why founder-led social media drives authentic engagement and product anticipation.The value of free exploratory audits in identifying immediate growth opportunities.ConclusionHamlet Azarian’s approach blends cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of human connection in sales and marketing. By leveraging real-time signals, integrating AI thoughtfully, and leading with authenticity, companies can scale faster and smarter in 2025. Whether you’re an early-stage founder or a mid-market leader, the principles shared in this episode offer a clear path to measurable, sustainable growth.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉View the platform » https://app.podverified.com/start/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Building Digital Products That Drive Revenue with Experion Technologies’ Manoj BalrajIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Manoj Balraj, Co-founder and President of Experion Technologies. Manoj shares how his company has grown into a global leader in digital product engineering, delivering mission-critical software for industries like automotive, healthcare, and finance. He also reveals how his personal creative outlets—like dance and filmmaking—help him stay inspired and bring fresh energy to his leadership approach.Turning Vision into High-Impact Digital ProductsManoj explains that Experion’s success comes from a structured yet collaborative product development process. Every project begins with a deep discovery phase to fully understand the client’s goals, user needs, and market context. This is followed by agile development cycles that deliver value in small, measurable increments, allowing for flexibility and constant alignment with evolving business needs. By engaging early, clients gain the advantage of Experion’s expertise in refining product vision, mitigating risks, and accelerating time-to-market.He emphasizes that great client partnerships are built on openness, preparedness, and trust. The most successful outcomes come when clients arrive with clear goals, are willing to collaborate, and remain engaged throughout the process. Even without a dedicated CTO, Experion can step in to provide technical leadership, ensuring the product is built with both scalability and long-term revenue in mind. This partnership approach has helped them serve over 85 early-stage companies and many Fortune 20 enterprises with equal success.Manoj also highlights the importance of scaling with discipline. Experion has grown organically to over 1,600 employees across multiple countries while staying focused on their core strengths. Their reputation for reliable delivery and post-launch support has been their strongest growth driver—proving that sustainable scaling is about quality and trust, not just speed. By blending creativity, agile execution, and strategic focus, Manoj and his team have built a blueprint for creating digital products that generate lasting business value.About Manoj BalrajManoj Balraj is the Co-founder and President of Experion Technologies, with over two decades of experience in digital product engineering. Outside of his corporate role, he’s an active participant in creative pursuits, which he credits for his leadership perspective and innovative approach.About Experion TechnologiesExperion Technologies is a global digital product engineering company serving startups, enterprises, and Fortune 20 companies. With expertise across industries, Experion delivers mission-critical software products that drive revenue, efficiency, and growth. Their agile, collaborative approach ensures products are built for real-world impact.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeExperion TechnologiesManoj Balraj on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsExperion’s process for turning vision into high-impact digital products.Why early client engagement leads to better product outcomes.How agile methodology keeps projects aligned and adaptable.The qualities of an ideal product engineering client.Scaling globally while maintaining quality and focus.ConclusionManoj Balraj’s story proves that great digital products are built through a mix of creativity, disciplined process, and strong partnerships. His insights show how leaders can transform bold ideas into products that deliver real business results.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉View the platform » https://app.podverified.com/start/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Unlocking Sustainable Growth with Customer Retention Strategies from Yemi Oluseun of The Change HiveIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Yemi Oluseun, Founder and CEO of The Change Hive. With a background in fintech and corporate transformation, Yemi shares why customer retention—not just acquisition—is the most powerful growth lever for any business. She outlines her five-point retention model, detailing how SaaS founders, service-based entrepreneurs, and growth leaders can build a loyal customer base, reduce churn, and expand revenue through smarter engagement and community building.How to Build a Retention-First Business That Fuels Long-Term GrowthYemi reveals that many businesses plateau not because they can’t attract new customers—but because they’re losing them too soon. Her five-point retention model helps leaders plug those leaks by focusing on onboarding, behavior tracking, customer habits, feedback loops, and timing review requests with customer milestones. From onboarding roadmaps and “quick wins” to using behavioral analytics and hosting customer roundtables, Yemi emphasizes creating early value, consistent engagement, and authentic relationships that turn customers into brand advocates.One of her most powerful insights is the importance of review-based feedback and expansion selling. By mapping the customer journey, identifying key touchpoints, and knowing when to request testimonials, businesses can not only improve retention but unlock new revenue streams. Yemi also shares tools like retention scorecards, milestone mapping, and customer health monitoring—reinforcing that retention isn’t just a tactic, it’s a strategy that touches every part of your business.Yemi’s approach is actionable and measurable. She encourages founders to shift their focus from front-end sales to post-sale engagement and build a company culture where retention is everyone's responsibility. With the right systems, support, and mindset, you can transform customer success into your most reliable and scalable growth engine.About Yemi OluseunYemi Oluseun is the founder and CEO of The Change Hive, a consulting and training company that helps mission-driven businesses grow sustainably through retention-first strategies. With a background in corporate transformation, fintech, and customer growth, she’s passionate about helping leaders turn clients into long-term advocates.About The Change HiveThe Change Hive empowers business leaders with the strategies and systems they need to improve customer retention and expand revenue. Through diagnostics, frameworks, and live workshops, The Change Hive helps SaaS and service-based businesses create sticky, high-value customer relationships.Links Mentioned in this Episode:The Change Hive WebsiteYemi Oluseun on LinkedInThe Change Hive Retention ScorecardEpisode Highlights:Why retention is the most overlooked yet powerful growth leverThe Change Hive’s five-point retention model for reducing churnHow to use behavioral analytics and roundtables to drive engagementThe role of milestone-based review requests in boosting trust and referralsHow to identify revenue expansion opportunities with existing customersConclusionYemi Oluseun makes a compelling case for shifting your focus from acquisition to retention. With the right systems and engagement strategies in place, you can create a business that grows sustainably and serves your ideal clients better over time. If you’re ready to build a true retention moat around your business, start by mapping your customer journey and making retention a company-wide metric.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉View the platform » https://app.podverified.com/start/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Navigating Sudden Wealth and Money Mindset with Lisa Peterson of Wealth ClinicIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Lisa Peterson, founder of Wealth Clinic, money coach, and author of The Money Catalyst: Your Guide to Prosperity, Freedom, and Living Your Best Life. Lisa shares how sudden wealth—whether from business success, inheritance, or windfalls—can trigger emotional and psychological challenges many people aren’t prepared for. She offers a practical, mindset-first approach to managing newfound wealth, healing money wounds, and building long-term financial freedom through self-awareness and intentional strategy.Why Money Mindset Matters When Wealth Happens FastLisa explains that most people have never learned how to manage large sums of money, and when sudden wealth hits, it often brings stress, fear, and decision fatigue. She introduces the concept of evaluating your “money upbringing” and how subconscious beliefs—formed early in life—can drive behaviors like overspending, fear-based investing, or avoiding financial decisions altogether. Lisa emphasizes that before taking action with new wealth, you must pause, reflect, and understand your internal money narrative.Through her framework of eight catalysts for transformation, outlined in The Money Catalyst, Lisa helps individuals define their version of prosperity, shift limiting beliefs, and take aligned financial action. She and Josh discuss how wealth without emotional clarity can actually decrease quality of life, and how many high-income earners still live in scarcity due to unresolved internal patterns. Lisa encourages working with professionals who understand both the emotional and financial complexities of sudden wealth and building support systems that focus on education, strategy, and healing.Lisa also offers actionable steps for those navigating wealth transitions—from pausing before making decisions, to assembling a trusted advisory team, setting up financial guardrails, and creating a long-term vision. Most importantly, she reminds listeners that true prosperity isn’t a number—it’s the feeling of freedom, confidence, and alignment that comes from knowing you’re using your wealth intentionally.About Lisa PetersonLisa Peterson is a money coach, business advisor, and founder of Wealth Clinic. She specializes in helping entrepreneurs and high earners transform their relationship with money by combining emotional intelligence, financial literacy, and long-term strategy. She’s also the host of the Mindful Millionaire podcast.About Wealth ClinicWealth Clinic helps purpose-driven individuals and entrepreneurs unlock abundance through coaching, mindset work, and financial strategy. With a focus on healing money wounds and creating lasting financial transformation, Wealth Clinic empowers clients to live aligned, prosperous lives.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Wealth Clinic WebsiteLisa Peterson on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Why sudden wealth often leads to overwhelm instead of easeThe importance of understanding your money story and upbringingLisa’s eight catalysts for financial and emotional transformationHow subconscious beliefs can quietly sabotage your successPractical tips for building true financial confidence and freedomConclusionLisa Peterson reminds us that wealth isn’t just about numbers—it’s about mindset, clarity, and emotional well-being. By understanding your internal patterns and approaching money with intention, you can turn sudden wealth into lasting freedom. Whether you’re navigating a financial windfall or seeking a healthier relationship with money, Lisa’s approach offers both the tools and wisdom to thrive.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉RSVP now to preview the platform »https://podverified.com/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

How to Break Free from Founder-Led Operations: Ral West’s Six Principles for Entrepreneurial FreedomIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Ral West, founder of Ral West: Livin’ The Dream, a business coach and serial entrepreneur who helps six- and seven-figure founders step out of the day-to-day grind. Ral shares how she and her husband went from being tied to every task in their business to building systems that gave them true freedom. She breaks down her six principles for entrepreneurial freedom and explains how founders can delegate with confidence, build teams that thrive, and create businesses that support the life they actually want.Ral West’s Six Core Principles for Scaling Without BurnoutRal West knows firsthand how easy it is for entrepreneurs to become the bottleneck in their business. Her six principles offer a practical, proven roadmap to shift from overwhelmed operator to empowered owner.The journey starts with building robust systems. Ral emphasizes that without clear, repeatable processes, founders stay stuck handling every detail. She recommends documenting even the smallest tasks and investing in tools like SOPs, automation platforms, and video training. Next, she encourages founders to measure and track data relentlessly—what gets measured gets managed. Setting up dashboards and reviewing KPIs regularly keeps the business on track and reveals areas for improvement.One of the biggest mindset shifts comes through leveraging your time through delegation. Ral explains that true growth comes when founders stop doing everything themselves and start empowering others. She outlines how to delegate with structure, train your team effectively, and release the fear of imperfection. From there, it’s critical to intentionally shape your company culture, develop your team, and deliver exceptional customer service. When these principles are in place, the founder becomes the visionary—not the workhorse.About Ral WestRal West is a serial entrepreneur, business coach, and founder of Ral West: Livin’ The Dream. With decades of experience building and exiting multiple businesses, she now helps high-earning entrepreneurs reclaim their time, build systems, and scale their companies sustainably.About Livin’ The DreamRal West: Livin’ The Dream is a coaching and mastermind brand that equips entrepreneurs with tools to scale their businesses without burnout. Through small-group programs, personalized mentorship, and practical business systems, Ral helps founders design businesses that serve their lifestyle—not the other way around.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Ral West on LinkedInRal West: Livin’ The DreamEpisode Highlights:The six principles for escaping founder-dependency and reclaiming your timeHow to build systems that let your business run without youWhy delegation is the key to sustainable growth (and how to do it right)Ral’s advice on letting go of sales and building a strong teamA roadmap for founders ready to trade burnout for freedomConclusionRal West’s story is a powerful reminder that you don’t have to be everything in your business to make it succeed. By building systems, empowering your team, and intentionally designing your operations, you can create a business that gives you both profit and freedom. Whether you're buried in sales calls or wearing every hat in your company, this episode gives you a clear path forward—one that leads to entrepreneurial freedom on your own terms.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Harnessing AI for Human-Centered Digital Transformation with Kamales Lardi of Lardi & Partner ConsultingIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge interviews Kamales Lardi, CEO of Lardi & Partner Consulting and author of Artificial Intelligence for Business: Harness AI for Value, Growth, and Innovation. Kamales shares how businesses can embrace digital transformation through AI while keeping the human element at the center. With decades of experience advising Fortune 500s, startups, and mid-sized companies, Kamales offers practical frameworks and expert guidance for business leaders navigating the complexities of tech disruption, virtual workforces, and sustainable innovation.Blending AI with Empathy: How Businesses Can Lead the FutureKamales makes it clear: AI is not a trend—it’s a business imperative that’s redefining customer engagement, operations, and innovation. But she cautions that leaders must avoid the “AI-first, people-second” trap. To truly transform, businesses must invest in AI adoption strategies that empower employees, support collaboration between humans and machines, and foster a culture of continuous learning.Leadership in the AI age requires a mindset shift. Kamales emphasizes the importance of evolving from traditional management to leading hybrid teams of humans and intelligent systems. This involves developing empathy, building trust, and helping employees adapt to changing roles while embracing technology as a tool—not a threat. Organizations that thrive will be those that pair technological innovation with human values and intentional culture-building.Through her work at Lardi & Partner Consulting, Kamales helps clients move from tactical technology adoption to long-term capability development. From defining clear transformation roadmaps to ensuring knowledge transfer, her approach empowers companies to build resilience and agility internally—so they’re not reliant on consultants. Her advice to leaders: act with strategic clarity, communicate transparently, and align AI investments with a greater purpose that benefits both business and society.About Kamales LardiKamales Lardi is a digital transformation strategist, author, and CEO of Lardi & Partner Consulting. She helps global organizations leverage emerging technologies—like AI and blockchain—while keeping people and purpose at the heart of business innovation.About Lardi & Partner ConsultingLardi & Partner is a boutique consulting firm that guides companies through complex digital transformation. Their approach blends strategic planning with human-centered implementation, enabling clients to embrace innovation while building sustainable internal capabilities.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Lardi & Partner ConsultingKamales Lardi on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Why AI is transforming every aspect of business—and how to lead that changeThe importance of empathy, trust, and human judgment in AI implementationHow to manage hybrid teams of humans and machinesBest practices for adopting AI while empowering employeesKamales’s approach to sustainable digital transformation and internal capability-buildingConclusionKamales Lardi offers a compelling vision for leaders: transformation fueled by technology, grounded in humanity. By adopting abundance thinking, focusing on collaboration, and building leadership skills for a hybrid workforce, organizations can create long-term value. AI is here to stay—but it’s the people behind it who will shape the future.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Unlocking Identity, Mindset, and Service-Driven Growth with Paul Tembunde of Premier DestinyIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Paul Tembunde, Co-founder and CEO of Premier Destiny. Drawing on over two decades of experience in the home care industry and his journey as a transformational coach, Paul shares how shifting your identity, cultivating a growth mindset, and building a service-focused business can lead to true personal and professional fulfillment. If you're looking to rediscover your purpose and align your work with your calling, this episode offers real strategies to help unlock your highest potential.Identity Shifting and the Power of Knowing Who You ArePaul emphasizes that your identity is not your job title, your past, or your current situation—it’s the self-image you hold and the beliefs you carry about what’s truly possible. He encourages entrepreneurs and professionals alike to regularly self-reflect, ask meaningful questions, and challenge limiting definitions of success. This process of "identity auditing" is central to Paul’s coaching approach and helps uncover blind spots that often hold people back from stepping into their greatness.A strong growth mindset, according to Paul, means rejecting victimhood and embracing your power to create change. He recommends replacing limiting self-talk with empowering questions, surrounding yourself with growth-oriented people, and always staying curious. Paul also stresses the importance of identifying your "zone of genius"—the unique intersection of your passions, natural strengths, and ability to serve others. When work aligns with this zone, it becomes deeply fulfilling.As someone who built a thriving home care business with his wife, Paul shares how delegation was key to scaling. Letting go of tasks outside their core strengths allowed them to focus on strategy and growth. Today, Paul helps others enter and succeed in the booming home care industry, and continues coaching professionals through Premier Destiny. At the core of his message is this: fulfillment comes not from chasing profit, but from using your gifts in service of others.About Paul TembundePaul Tembunde is the Co-founder and CEO of Premier Destiny and a transformational coach with 23+ years in the home care industry. He helps entrepreneurs unlock their potential by guiding them through identity shifting, mindset development, and purpose-driven service.About Premier DestinyPremier Destiny is a coaching and consulting company that empowers individuals to discover their true identity, live with intention, and build purpose-driven businesses. Paul and his team specialize in transformational coaching, leadership development, and business strategy rooted in service.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Premier Destiny WebsitePaul Tembunde on LinkedInCoaching & ResourcesEpisode Highlights:Why identity shifting is the first step toward unlocking true potentialThe difference between victim and creator mindset in businessHow to find your zone of genius and align work with passionThe role of delegation in scaling a service-based businessWhy coachability and self-reflection are keys to long-term successConclusionPaul Tembunde’s journey proves that personal transformation starts with self-awareness and a commitment to growth. By intentionally shifting your identity, focusing on service, and staying coachable, you can build not just a successful business—but a deeply meaningful life. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or at a crossroads in your career, this episode offers the clarity and encouragement you need to move forward with purpose.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉RSVP now to preview the platform »https://podverified.com/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Authentic Leadership and People-First Culture with Chris Robinson of Maxwell LeadershipIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Chris Robinson, Executive Vice President of the Maxwell Leadership Institute and founder of chrisrobinsonspeaker.com. Chris shares a transformative approach to leadership rooted in authenticity, empathy, and personal connection. This episode explores how leaders can foster a culture that retains talent, inspires teams, and builds lasting impact by putting people first.Leadership That Connects: How to Build Culture Through Trust and CareChris Robinson believes that effective leadership comes down to three critical questions every team member asks: Can I trust you? Can you help me? Do you care for me? When leaders can genuinely answer “yes” to all three, they foster deeper relationships and stronger organizational cultures. Building trust starts with transparency and consistency, while being helpful means actively supporting team growth with resources, guidance, and encouragement. Most importantly, caring for your team goes beyond metrics—it requires recognizing their aspirations, listening to their concerns, and showing genuine appreciation.The cost of poor leadership, Chris warns, is high—and turnover is just the beginning. Financial losses, low morale, and declining productivity often stem from leaders who fail to connect or invest in their people. He recommends using a “retention calculator” to understand the true cost of losing a team member and encourages proactive practices like stay interviews and real-time feedback to keep teams engaged. Leaders who create a safe, responsive environment ultimately retain top talent and reduce disruption.To build a sustainable, people-first leadership culture, Chris uses tools like the “My Favorite Things” survey—gathering personal insights about team members’ interests, motivators, and milestones. Recognizing employees in small but meaningful ways—like remembering birthdays or rewarding them with their favorite treat—creates a culture of appreciation. Consistency is key: leaders must model the behavior they expect, train mid-level managers to do the same, and build common language and values across the organization using proven frameworks like those from John Maxwell.About Chris RobinsonChris Robinson is the Executive Vice President of the Maxwell Leadership Institute, an international speaker, coach, and entrepreneur. He empowers leaders to grow personally and professionally by equipping them with actionable leadership tools and people-first principles that drive real results.About Maxwell LeadershipMaxwell Leadership provides proven leadership development programs based on the teachings of John C. Maxwell. From keynotes and coaching to training solutions for organizations, Maxwell Leadership helps individuals and teams develop influence, build culture, and achieve transformative growth.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Maxwell Leadership WebsiteChris Robinson’s WebsiteChris Robinson on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:The 3 questions every follower asks: trust, help, and careWhy poor leadership costs more than you think—and how to fix itHow to personalize leadership with tools like “My Favorite Things”Actionable steps to retain employees and embed positive cultureThe three pillars of leadership growth: knowledge, coaching, experienceConclusionChris Robinson reminds us that authentic leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about connection, intention, and putting people first. By consistently modeling trust, helpfulness, and care, leaders can shape workplace cultures that not only retain talent but also inspire excellence. Whether you're leading a team of ten or a company of hundreds, the path to stronger leadership starts with building human-centered habits—one conversation at a time.🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find out how you rank as a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉RSVP now to preview the platform »https://podverified.com/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!

Unlocking Quantum Revenue Growth with AI – Insights from Ursula Mentjes of Ursula Inc.In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Ursula Mentjes, founder of Ursula Inc. and host of the Quantum Revenue Expansion podcast. Ursula shares how entrepreneurs can leverage AI tools like custom GPTs and AI agents to scale smarter, build stronger systems, and increase revenue. If you're a service-based business owner aiming for seven figures, this conversation offers practical guidance and expert-level strategy for navigating the fast-changing landscape of AI and automation.How AI is Reshaping Sales, Content, and Scaling for Service-Based EntrepreneursUrsula emphasizes that AI isn't just another passing trend—it’s a non-negotiable shift in how business will be done moving forward. Drawing parallels to the industrial revolution, she encourages entrepreneurs to explore AI playfully but seriously. Tools like ChatGPT, when customized and trained properly, can replace hours of manual work by handling sales outreach, content drafts, and even internal decision-making simulations. It’s not about replacing people, she explains, but amplifying capacity and creativity.One of the most valuable takeaways from the episode is the use of custom GPTs and AI “agents” to streamline repetitive processes. Ursula’s team developed a proprietary GPT to help clients write compelling sales emails, while also using agent swarms to tackle multi-step projects like client onboarding and marketing campaigns. Josh expands on this with a recommendation: simulate a team of AI personas (e.g., SEO coach, marketing strategist) to generate well-rounded business decisions quickly. When applied thoughtfully, AI can act like a virtual C-suite that’s available 24/7.Finally, Ursula introduces The CEO Table, her dual-coach program designed to help service-based business owners scale from early six figures to seven. She and her co-coach Rebecca Hall offer clients a 360-degree view of business growth—blending mindset, sales, finance, and systems optimization. With personalized coaching, access to automation tools, and expert support, clients in the program fast-track their results while reducing burnout. AI plays a central role in this ecosystem, providing leverage and clarity where business owners often feel overwhelmed.About Ursula MentjesUrsula Mentjes is a sales expert, award-winning author, and founder of Ursula Inc. She helps entrepreneurs break through revenue plateaus using neuroscience-based coaching, mindset transformation, and AI-powered business systems.About Ursula Inc.Ursula Inc. helps service-based entrepreneurs grow from six to seven figures by aligning mindset, messaging, and scalable systems. The company offers elite coaching, digital programs, and tools that accelerate revenue with strategic AI integration.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Ursula Inc. WebsiteUrsula Mentjes on LinkedInQuantum Revenue Expansion PodcastFree tools: One Great Goal ebook, Uplevel Now, Scaling Roadmap, and live AI workshopEpisode Highlights:Why AI is essential—not optional—for business survivalCustom GPTs and AI agents as game changers in sales and operationsThe power of AI personas for decision-making and content creationThe CEO Table program and its dual-coach model for scaling smartHow to start integrating AI with simple tools and free resourcesConclusionAI is no longer a luxury—it’s the foundation of scalable success. Ursula Mentjes offers a clear roadmap for service-based entrepreneurs ready to lead with technology, elevate their mindset, and accelerate their revenue. Whether you’re just beginning or ready to optimize, this episode is your invitation to step into the future of business growth.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🎧 More from UpMyInfluence:🎙️ Want to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur? Get your voice in front of 50K+ listeners. Schedule your guest spot here »https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest🤝 Consultant doing 6+ figures?Let’s introduce you to your next big client, partner, or referral source. See how here » https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros📡 Thinking of launching your own podcast?We’ve built over 250 shows for leaders who now land dream guests (and clients) weekly. See the system here »https://upmyinfluence.com/book-podcast/🚨What’s Your PodVerified Score?🎯 Find outhow you rankas a podcast guest — and get matched with hosts who actually want you.No spam. No cold pitching. Justsmart, credibility-based connectionsthat get you booked on aligned shows week after week.✅ 2 free podcast matches✅ Your own dashboard with warm-up plans✅ Media badges to showcase your guest authority✅ Priority access to Founders Club (limited to 100)👉RSVP now to preview the platform »https://podverified.com/📬 Subscribe to The Thoughtful EntrepreneurNew episodes daily to fuel your impact, visibility, and influence.Thanks for listening. Now go build something extraordinary!