The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Understanding and Mastering Fear In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Rhonda Britten, a master coach, keynote speaker, and founder of the Fearless Living Institute. Rhonda, an Emmy Award-winning author, shares her extensive experience in helping individuals and organizations navigate the complexities of fear and personal development. This blog post delves into the key themes and actionable insights from their discussion, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Rhonda begins by addressing a fundamental truth: fear is a universal experience that affects everyone, regardless of their position or achievements. She emphasizes that fear is deeply rooted in our neurobiology, often stemming from our formative years. Many individuals find themselves grappling with fears that are remnants of past experiences, leading to feelings of inadequacy or the need for approval from others. Rhonda points out that people often focus on the symptoms of fear, such as procrastination, anxiety, and self-doubt, rather than addressing the underlying issues. A key distinction Rhonda makes is between fighting fear and mastering it. She explains that many people mistakenly believe they can eliminate fear entirely, but this is unrealistic. Instead, she advocates for understanding and mastering fear, which involves recognizing that fear is a natural part of being human and learning to work with it rather than against it. Rhonda introduces the concept of the "Wheel of Fear," which represents the unconscious patterns and beliefs that drive our fears. By identifying their personal wheel of fear, individuals can begin to shift their focus from fear-driven behaviors to more empowering actions. About Rhonda Britten: Rhonda Britten is an Emmy-winning life coach from NBC’s Starting Over and a multiple bestselling author. After a life-altering tragedy at 14, they spent two decades struggling with alcoholism and enduring three suicide attempts. Despite trying therapy, spiritual practices, and countless self-help books, [Your Name] found that none of these approaches created lasting change, leaving them with a persistent feeling of inadequacy. Everything shifted when they discovered a transformative method that allowed them to let go of the past and embrace their most confident, authentic self. For the past 25 years, [Your Name] has dedicated their life to teaching this powerful technique, helping others achieve their own transformations. Their journey has garnered attention, leading to appearances on several prominent TV shows, including The Oprah Winfrey Show, The Today Show, and The Steve Harvey Show. Their experiences also inspired the creation of the first reality television show in the world, Help Me, Rhonda. About Fearless Living Institute: The Fearless Living Institute (FLI) is an international support network for mastering the emotional fears that keep us from being our very best. We work with thousands of people who strive to embody Fearless Living in their homes, their boardrooms, and beyond. Who We Are FLI was founded by Rhonda Britten, bestselling author and Emmy Award–winner for the daytime reality drama Starting Over. Her groundbreaking Fearless Living principles have gained international renown and have inspired countless individuals to embrace the human-potential movement. Thousands of those individuals have joined our FLI support network—they include: Fearless Book Group Leaders and Participants Our Fearless Book Groups meet regularly, in person or by phone, to support one another and study the principles of Fearless Living. Many of our Fearless Book Group Leaders go on to become certified coaches. Certified Fearless Living Coaches Our coaches undergo the most rigorous selection and training process in the industry today that qualifies them to act as personal coaches and members of their community who would like to transform their lives. Business Partners FLI has ongoing relationships with dozens of managers and leaders in business. Our personalized programs increase profitability by helping employees to become more productive, creative, and committed through Fearless Living. How We Work FLI's core mission is to provide a pathway for anyone who is willing to do the work to free their lives from emotional fear. That might include fear of rejection, fear of incompetency, fear of looking stupid and many more. Through Rhonda's bestselling books, our website, Fearless Book Groups, workshops, and one-on-one coaching, we provide every possible tool you need to start your journey.   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 Fearless Living Institute website at https://fearlessliving.org/ Check out Fearless Living Institute on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fearless-living-institute/ Check out Rhonda Britten on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/rhondabritten/ 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.  

Elevate Your Industry: The Essential Role of Thought Leadership in Business In the latest episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Ryan Klee, co-founder of Rootstock, a thought leadership consulting firm. The episode delves into the nuances of thought leadership, the power of storytelling in business, and the strategic approaches Rootstock employs to help clients articulate their narratives effectively. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners in their thought leadership and branding efforts. Josh opens the discussion by emphasizing the critical role of thought leadership in today’s competitive business environment. He notes that every individual has a unique message that can positively impact the world, and it’s essential for business leaders to communicate their stories effectively. Ryan agrees, highlighting that many professionals, while experts in their fields, often struggle to convey their insights in a compelling way. This is where Rootstock steps in, helping clients refine their messaging and elevate their brands. Ryan introduces Rootstock as a consulting firm dedicated to helping ambitious leaders and organizations grow their brands and scale their businesses. The firm focuses on harnessing the potential of clients' best ideas, refining their narratives, and sharing these stories with broader audiences. Ryan shares his passion for connecting people and ideas, which he believes is fundamental to effective storytelling. He describes himself as an extrovert who thrives on conversations and connections. This enthusiasm translates into his work at Rootstock, where the focus is on helping clients organize and present their stories. Ryan emphasizes that storytelling is not just for marketers; it’s a vital skill for anyone looking to make an impact in their industry. He elaborates on the concept of a "thought leadership position," which involves articulating what one stands for and believes in. This foundational work serves as a guiding framework for all content creation and public engagement, ensuring that the messaging remains consistent and impactful.   About Ryan Klee: Co-Founder at Rootstock, Ryan is a true believer in the powers of authentic connections, strategic storytelling, curiosity, and mutually beneficial collaborations. After graduating from the University of Florida with a BS in Telecommunications, Ryan honed his PR, marketing, and business strategy and development skills over nearly 15 years at some of Atlanta’s best marketing agencies and the world’s leading online boating marketplace. Turns out, this constantly curious, challenge-seeking, lifelong lover of learning, words, and stories was also an entrepreneur at heart. His extroverted nature, communications skills, natural inclination for collaboration, and desire to impact others and go good work in the world meld into the perfect combination to help entrepreneurs, founders, leaders, businesses, and organizations grow their brands and scale their businesses as a thought leadership consultant.   About Rootstock: A team of consultants rooted in the convergence of strategic storytelling and business acumen, we connect with innovative organizations on their most human level in an ever more automated world. Together, we develop and deploy thought leadership and brand growth campaigns that scale our clients’ reach and reputations beyond existing practice and networks. With learned understanding, we tap into the potential of our client’s best thinking to hone their stories, expand their target audiences, and drive new business. 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 Rootstock website at https://rootstock.agency/ Check out Rootstock on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/rootstockagency/ Check out Ryan Klee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-klee/ 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 Role of Fractional Leadership in Modern Organizations   In the latest episode of our podcast, we delve into the transformative role of fractional leadership in organizations, particularly focusing on operations and human resources. Our guest, Chrisa Boyce, a seasoned fractional CEO and Chief Strategy Officer (CSO), shares her extensive experience and insights on how fractional leaders can help businesses navigate challenges, enhance workplace culture, and implement effective processes. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice from the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Chrisa Boyce is introduced as a seasoned professional with a diverse background in marketing, branding, executive coaching, and corporate consulting. She recounts her journey from working in large fashion companies to becoming a fractional leader, emphasizing the importance of supporting organizations through effective infrastructure and operations. Chrisa explains that while soft skills and culture are crucial, they must be complemented by robust operational frameworks to drive real change within organizations. By integrating operational strategies with cultural initiatives, fractional leaders can help executives and founders elevate their organizations and improve overall leadership effectiveness. Throughout the episode, Chrisa underscores the unique advantages of engaging fractional leaders. She explains that fractional leaders bring a wealth of experience from various industries, allowing them to offer fresh perspectives and innovative solutions. Their ability to remain calm in chaotic situations provides reassurance to clients, helping them navigate challenges with confidence. For listeners intrigued by the insights shared in the episode, Chrisa invites them to reach out for a conversation, emphasizing that each situation is unique and a personalized approach is essential for determining the best path forward.   About Chrisa Zindros Boyce: With 15 years of leadership experience and a decade in executive coaching and business consulting, [Your Name] is dedicated to helping Minds Beyond Measure make a meaningful impact in the education sector. Their straightforward and intuitive approach, combined with coaching training, allows them to read between the lines and connect the dots effectively. Having firsthand experience in operations, marketing, and human resources, Chrisa understands the complexities of implementing change and driving results. As a strategist at heart, they offer a bird's-eye view that is essential for anticipating and mitigating both internal and external obstacles.   About CZB Consultancy: Supports clients in leveling up their businesses and professional lives. They take a transparent and realistic approach to help organizations scale their operations and develop their talent.   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 CZB Consultancy website at https://chrisazboyce.com/ Check out Chrisa Zindros Boyce on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisa-zindros-boyce-66006a91/ 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.  

Social Media Strategies for SMB Founders In the ever-evolving landscape of social media, staying ahead of the curve is crucial for small and medium-sized business (SMB) founders. In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh welcomes Jerry Potter, a seasoned social media speaker, coach, and podcast host, to discuss the latest trends and strategies for leveraging social media in 2024. This blog post delves into the key insights shared by Jerry, offering actionable advice and expert recommendations to help SMBs thrive in the digital age. Jerry Potter is a well-known figure in the social media marketing space, with a rich background in content marketing and radio. He has spent over 20 years as a professional radio personality before transitioning into social media. Jerry's mission is to help online business owners streamline their operations and effectively use social media for marketing, allowing them to focus on what truly matters in their lives. He hosts the "Social Media Marketing Talk Show" for Social Media Examiner and runs a podcast called "The Six Ways," where he explores diverse strategies for business success. One of the most significant changes in social media marketing is the rise of short-form video content. Platforms like TikTok, Instagram Reels, and YouTube Shorts have gained immense popularity, and businesses can now reach new audiences without relying heavily on paid advertising. Jerry refers to this phenomenon as the "TikTok-ification" of social media, where short-form videos are prioritized across various platforms. To bridge the gap between attracting new followers and nurturing them into loyal customers, Jerry introduces his "DATE" framework—Discovery, Acquaintance, Talking, and Enchanted. By focusing on one primary platform, sharing celebratory content, and leveraging YouTube and video podcasts, SMB founders can enhance their online presence and drive business growth in 2024 and beyond.   About Jerry Potter: Jerry Potter is a highly-rated social media speaker with 20+ years of experience as a broadcast professional and content media educator. Aside from his own successful podcast (The 6 Ways) & YouTube channel, he joyfully works with small business owners, groups, and organizations to amplify their social media results. His passion (aside from cheap pink frosted cookies) is introducing the world to modcasting by designing new multi-platform revenue generating podcasts. You also may recognize Jerry as the host of “The Social Media Marketing Talk Show”, the longest running weekly talk show dedicated to social media marketing. Jerry’s dad jokes and supply of superhero t-shirts have been seemingly endless since 2010. 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 Jerry Potter's website at https://mrjerrypotter.com/ Check out Jerry Potter on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/in/mrjerrypotter Check out Modcast Marketing on website at https://modcastmarketing.com/   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 Frugality to Flourishing: Transforming Financial Advisory Practices In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Tate Kerst and Ben Mossman, co-founders of the coaching firm What's Next. This episode delves into the unique challenges faced by financial advisors and business owners as they strive to grow their practices and enhance operational efficiency. Tate and Ben share their expertise on best practices for growth, understanding financials, and the importance of effective delegation. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice from the episode to guide financial advisors and business owners on their growth journeys. Tate and Ben founded What's Next to help business owners, particularly those in the financial advisory space, identify their next steps for growth. They recognized a gap in the market for guidance specifically designed for financial advisors transitioning into business ownership. Their firm provides tailored support to help clients navigate their individual journeys, leveraging their extensive experience in the financial services industry. Many financial advisors enter the industry with a strong desire to help clients make sound financial decisions. However, as they build their businesses, they often encounter challenges related to staffing, human resources, and financial management. Tate emphasizes the importance of understanding the story behind the numbers in financial statements. Advisors should look beyond the top or bottom line to gain valuable insights that can inform hiring decisions and operational strategies. Ben highlights that successful advisors build their capacity to serve more clients without becoming overwhelmed through effective delegation. Financial advisors are often conservative in their spending habits, which can be both an advantage and a hindrance. While frugality can help maintain financial stability, it can also stifle growth if advisors revert to doing everything themselves. Tate and Ben encourage listeners to visit the What's Next website to learn more about their process and the resources available. About Tate Kerst: The path that Tate has taken over the last 25 years has truly made a difference not only for the people that have engaged him in impacting their business but for the many clients and customers they serve. Tate’s original path led him to leave college to impact young people in secondary education to allow Tate to be a coach to athletes at that level. He quickly learned that English, reading and writing are something Tate enjoys so he figured it would make getting through college easier, would allow him to share the passion he has for the great writings while allowing him to lead sports teams to championships. Quickly Tate realized that English wasn’t everyone’s favorite topic and that he actually had to read all the essays he assigned. A few years of teaching led Tate to pursue alternatives where he had more control of the direction and impact he could have. Tate’s career in financial services began in Oakley, KS as a Financial Advisor with Waddell and Reed. He reached production recognition levels every year he was in his advisory role and his success in that role and his educational background led him to have an impact not just on his practice but his peers as well. This was a turning point, that wasn’t recognized by him at the time, that would lead him down a road that few people understood and even fewer people received full benefit of–Practice Development. It honored Tate to be tapped by Waddell and Reed to start their first Practice Development program and grow it to the level that allowed advisors to find unprecedented success. Tate pulled from contemporary practice management literature to develop a program that provided the ability to develop a practice rather than manage it. A focus driven by advisors to meet them where they are at and to take them to where they want to be in their business and life proved to resonate with the advisors, he had the honor to work with and infuses Tate with energy and excitement today. Tate is fueled by continuing to help everyone business owner he comes into contact with be a better business person or to get them to share with him the keys to their success. Tate grew up as a wrestler and pursued that athletic endeavor into his college career. That tenacity, and difference in mentality, have served to mold Tate into the person he has become. He attended Fort Hays State University where he majored in English Education and met his wife of almost 30 years! You can guess which accomplishment was hardest. Tate lives in Kansas City, KS with his wife Amy and is actively pursuing getting his three college age children off his payroll. When not working Tate enjoys pursuing his frustrating golf game, reading both business books and spy/military fiction and spending time with his family. About Ben Mossman: Ben Mossman learned the ins and outs of being a financial advisor and business owner the hard way—through experience and some tough lessons. He believes failure is a powerful teacher, and he's all about reflecting on where you've been to shape where you're going. For the past 11 years, Ben has guided clients as both a financial advisor and a coach, emphasizing that there's no one-size-fits-all path to success. He thinks figuring out what you truly want is just as important as achieving it. Ben graduated from the University of Colorado in 2001 with a degree in Environmental Design—basically, architecture. After realizing the field was more about budgets than creativity, he pivoted to finance and built his own advisory practice from scratch. Eventually, he found his true passion in coaching other advisors to reach their goals. Known for his attentive listening and thoughtful coaching, Ben builds genuine relationships with those he works with. Clients appreciate that he puts their best interests first, and he always manages to keep things lighthearted. Now, Ben lives in Parker, Colorado, with his wife, Kris, and their three kids: Alex, Kaden, and Zoey. He enjoys drumming, writing music, savoring good whisky, and being the family punchline—he makes it easy for them! About What’s Next 4 Financial Advisors: We Work With Climbers Not Campers! For decades, we’ve been helping Financial Advisors and other business owners to build more efficient, more profitable and more enjoyable businesses. It’s not just our life’s work – it’s our life’s passion. Along the way, we’ve made a great many friends and built relationships that have lasted a lifetime. If you’re looking for an experienced partner to join you on your journey to the next level, we would love to help you get there from here. Get to the Next Level. Our focus is on meeting you where you are and working with you to help you identify your next levels of success and how to reach them. We don’t stop there – we roll up our sleeves and help you to reach your goals, and when you succeed, we succeed. We've Walked in Your Shoes! There are business coaches and then there are business coaches that know what it’s like to be a financial advisor. As successful financial advisors and practice development experts ourselves, we can help you get where you want to go. 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 What’s Next 4 Financial Advisors website at https://whatsnext.coach/ Check out What’s Next 4 Financial Advisors on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/whatsnext4financialadvisors/ Check out Tate Kerst on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tate-kerst-1547b8b4/ Check out Ben Mossman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-mossman-7325687/ 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 Tax Incentives: A Guide for Entrepreneurs to Maximize Wealth In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages with Tom Wheelwright, a bestselling author and renowned tax expert, to discuss essential tax strategies for entrepreneurs. The conversation revolves around Tom's book, "Tax-Free Wealth," emphasizing how understanding tax laws can be a roadmap for wealth building rather than just a set of rules. This blog post distills the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, offering a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs aiming to optimize their tax situations. Tom Wheelwright shares his journey, starting his first CPA firm in 1995 with a focus on providing exceptional advice to entrepreneurs. He believes that entrepreneurs are the lifeblood of society and that traditional tax advice often falls short. Tom's refreshing perspective views tax laws not as burdens but as incentives designed to encourage specific behaviors that can lead to wealth creation. He outlines three critical questions every entrepreneur should consider: how they make their money, what they plan to do with it, and what will happen to it when they die. Each question is crucial for aligning financial activities with government incentives and minimizing tax liabilities. The episode also delves into practical tax strategies, including the benefits of different business structures like S Corporations, LLCs, and C Corporations. Tom highlights the importance of strategic investments that offer tax incentives, such as real estate and renewable energy projects. He also touches on the advantages of franchising, which can lead to lower tax rates and greater financial flexibility. As the political landscape shifts, Tom urges entrepreneurs to stay informed about potential tax law changes and work with knowledgeable tax advisors to navigate these changes effectively. Josh concludes by directing listeners to Tom's resources for further guidance on tax strategies and wealth building. About Tom Wheelwright: Tom Wheelwright®, CPA, is a tax and wealth expert and a serial entrepreneur dedicated to the belief that everyone deserves to be financially independent of employers, Wall Street and the government. His businesses — WealthAbility®, TFW Advisors, PLA Software and Wheelwright Manahan Family Office — provide the education, tax preparation, tools and teams that enable people to experience that freedom. Wheelwright is a Rich Dad Advisor, the CPA for Robert Kiyosaki, an international speaker, and the author of the bestselling books The Win-Win Wealth Strategy and Tax-Free Wealth. He has spoken on stage on six continents to over 100,000 entrepreneurs, small business owners, and investors. He also hosts the popular podcast The WealthAbility® Show with Tom Wheelwright® CPA.   About WealthAbility®: WealthAbility® is dedicated to providing access to the tools, education and teams that will enable all people worldwide to create their own financial independence. About the book "Tax-Free Wealth: How to Build Massive Wealth by Permanently Lowering Your Taxes": A comprehensive guide that unveils strategic approaches to minimizing tax liabilities and accumulating significant wealth. As an acclaimed CPA and World-Renowned Expert on Tax, Wheelwright revisits and updates his groundbreaking work where readers are introduced to a wealth-building philosophy that revolves around using the tax code as a roadmap to building wealth in a way that makes taxes fun, easy, and understandable. 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 WealthAbility® website at https://www.wealthability.com/ Check out WealthAbility® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/wealthability/ Check out Tom Wheelwright website https://tomwheelwright.com/ Check out Tom Wheelwright on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomwheelwright/ 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 Client Acquisition: Sustainable Client Growth in the Agency World   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh Elledge sat down with Joshua Johnston, the founder of Hydra, to discuss effective strategies for client acquisition in the digital marketing agency world. Joshua, with his extensive background in scaling digital marketing agencies and consulting, shared invaluable insights that can help agency owners and entrepreneurs enhance their client acquisition efforts. This blog post delves into the key themes and strategies discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide listeners in their business growth journey. Joshua Johnston's journey in the digital marketing space is both inspiring and instructive. As the Chief Operating Officer of a digital marketing agency, he played a crucial role in scaling the business to multiple seven figures, leading to its acquisition by a venture capital firm in 2020. Despite starting with limited knowledge about operations, Joshua's dedication to learning and improving operational efficiency was instrumental in the agency's success. Post-acquisition, he transitioned into consulting, where he now helps other agencies optimize their operations and achieve similar growth. This episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast provides a wealth of insights into effective client acquisition strategies for digital marketing agencies. Joshua Johnston's experience and expertise highlight the significance of referral systems, social proof, and building strategic partnerships. By focusing on long-term relationship building and consistently delivering value, agencies can position themselves for sustainable growth and success in a competitive landscape. Listeners are encouraged to implement these strategies in their own businesses to enhance their client acquisition efforts and ultimately drive revenue growth. For more inspiration and motivation, subscribe to the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast and explore the resources available through Hydra.   About Joshua Johnston: Driven by a passion for impact, Josh is on a mission to help eradicate agency poverty and provide businesses with the operational infrastructure needed to scale profitably. From his roots in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he began his career as a Personal Trainer, Josh has evolved into a visionary entrepreneur. With a decade of experience leading the growth of multi-seven-figure businesses in various niches, Josh founded Hydra to bring his expertise to digital agencies. His leadership in marketing and sales, combined with innovative projects like Hydra Council and Cleanbooks, has empowered over 100 agencies to achieve their growth potential. From 2018 to 2020, Josh served as the COO of Welling Media, where he architected the systems and infrastructure to support their rapid growth to multiple seven-figures per year in revenue and over 25 employees. He played a key role in servicing some of the most prominent brands in the DTC industry, such as the Oodie and Snow Teeth Whitening, and was instrumental in the acquisition of Welling Media in 2020. Guided by values of growth, personal happiness and profit, Josh is committed to helping business founders build businesses that serve them. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic planning, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Currently, Josh is focused on Hydra's four main offerings: management consulting with DWY and DFY solutions for digital agencies, bi-annual events called Hydra Council, the new bookkeeping arm called Cleanbooks and the latest addition, Agency Therapy. A recent notable milestone was hosting their first international event in London.   About Hydra: Hydra is a consulting firm that partners with digital agency owners to enhance their operational systems, processes, and service offerings, empowering them to scale to multiple seven figures and beyond. The firm specializes in: Building efficient operational systems for project management and team development, suitable for teams of any size. Teaching proven frameworks and practices that drive sustainable, profitable growth. Clarifying each agency's true purpose to help them attract their ideal clients. With a focus on creating operationally efficient organizations, Hydra enables agencies to move faster and increase profitability. In the past two years, founder Josh has successfully guided over 100 agencies through their growth journeys. His systemize-then-scale approach eliminates single dependencies, establishing solid foundations for consistent success.   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 Hydra website at https://www.workwithhydra.com/ Check out Hydra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/workwithhydra/ Check out Joshua Johnston on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshykobyashi 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 Business Law: Preventative Measures for Entrepreneurs In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Matthew Davis, the CEO and owner of Davis Business Law, and the author of "The Art of Preventing Stupid." The conversation delved into the critical importance of preventative measures in business law, aiming to help entrepreneurs avoid common legal pitfalls. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Matthew, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide business owners in safeguarding their ventures. Matthew Davis is introduced as a seasoned expert in business law, known for his proactive approach to legal issues. His philosophy revolves around helping clients stay out of legal messes, which ultimately leads to greater prosperity in their businesses. One of the foundational steps Matthew recommends is establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This structure provides personal liability protection and can be crucial for both startups and established businesses. Additionally, for multi-member LLCs, having an operating agreement is essential to avoid complications down the line. Matthew likens entering a business partnership to a marriage, highlighting the need for clear agreements to prevent conflicts. Matthew shares some of the most common "oh crap" moments he encounters with clients, emphasizing the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. These include partnership issues, customer contracts, vendor contracts, and employee contracts. He elaborates on the importance of understanding legal priorities in business and introduces the "Strong Protected Business Checklist," which outlines critical legal steps to take as a business evolves. The episode wraps up with the host thanking Matthew Davis for sharing his insights and encouraging listeners to visit the Davis Business Law website for valuable resources. This episode serves as a valuable reminder for entrepreneurs to prioritize legal protections and preventative measures to ensure the long-term success and stability of their businesses. About Matthew Davis: Matthew Neill Davis is an attorney, heavy metal guitarist, and entrepreneur that led his solely owned firm, Davis Business Law, through over 1000% percent growth over eight years, making it one of very rare law firms ever to make the Inc 5000 list. The firm currently has eight offices from Austin to Kansas City. With over twenty-five years of experience helping businesses leaders with their legal and entrepreneurial matters, Davis now teaches them how to deal with their vulnerabilities so they can capitalize on their opportunities through his firm’s proprietary Strong Protected Business System️. Davis lives in Enid, Oklahoma, where his family has lived for six generations, and holds degrees from the University of Oklahoma, Cornell University, and Cornell College.   About Davis Business Law: Davis Business Law is a group of dedicated general counsel and litigation experts to business clients of all sizes. Our goal is to provide you with a solid foundation for growth while preventing and eliminating legal problems that rob you of your peace of mind and prevent you from building a life-changing business. We transform how companies operate by enhancing and systematizing procedures in an effort to minimize legal mishaps and maximize growth. At Davis Business Law, we believe that your attorney should be a trusted business advisor, not just a legal technician.   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 Davis Business Law website at https://davisbusinesslaw.com/ Check out Davis Business Law on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/davisbusinesslaw/ Check out Matthew Davis on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewneilldavis 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.    

Leveraging Media Exposure for Business Growth   In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mitch Carson, the founder and CEO of Get Interviewed Guaranteed. The discussion centers around the critical role of media exposure, particularly television appearances, in driving business growth for authors, speakers, and CEOs. This blog post delves into the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you leverage media exposure effectively. Mitch Carson, with extensive experience in media and public relations, emphasizes the importance of media exposure in today's competitive business landscape. He highlights that leveraging high-level media exposure, especially through network television, can significantly enhance visibility and credibility. For those based in Las Vegas, Mitch guarantees coverage on four networks within two days, along with appearances on his own NBC Las Vegas show. He explains that being featured in a respected market like Las Vegas can serve as a powerful credential when seeking media opportunities in larger markets, such as Orlando or New York. The conversation also highlights the importance of building credibility through media exposure. Mitch shares a success story about a retired brigadier general who leveraged her media appearances to secure speaking engagements and business opportunities. He explains that media exposure creates a "snowball effect," where initial appearances lead to more opportunities, such as guest spots on high-profile podcasts and radio shows. Mitch emphasizes the need for a blended approach, utilizing both traditional and digital media to reach target audiences effectively, and encourages repurposing media content for social media platforms to enhance credibility and visibility.   About Mitch Carson: Mitch’s background includes starting his first business in college and selling it for more than 7 figures USD by the age of 28. His second startup with partners (Planet Recycling, Inc.) was sold in 1993 to Waste Management for an undisclosed sum. He started Impact Products Marketing in 1997 and grew its sales by speaking throughout the USA pitching advertising services to professional practices of lawyers, doctors, dentists, chiropractors, and real estate professionals. He found it made any business grow exponentially faster by mastering the use of selling one-to-many versus one-on-one. This simple twist in marketing grew Impact Products to a business generating more than $10,000,000 USD in less than 3 years. His agency was sold to Halo Branded Solutions in 2008. He has self-published several books with one published in 2008 by John Wiley and Sons with “The Silent Salesmen.” It was translated into German and sold more than 16,000 copies in a niche market. Education: BA in Communications from the University of Southern California. He later returned to school to earn an MBA with an emphasis in Marketing. Accomplishments: Trained over 600 speakers, authors, coaches, consultants, CEOS and coaches reach their goals. Many have gone on to be NY Times bestselling authors, Wall Street Journal Authors. Many have been able to experience a life transformation, as few are able to see, experience and realize their personal power in a 5-day experience. Many have gone on to become keynote speakers in their native countries, became authors, and recognized experts irrefutably.   About Get Interviewed Guaranteed: 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 Mitch Carson's website at https://www.mitchcarson.com/ Check out Mitch Carson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchcarsoninstantcelebrity/ 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 Digital Transformation: Insights on AI and Project Management In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Mariam Chtchyan, the Chief Operating Officer of Hack Tech. The conversation delved into the services offered by Hack Tech, the evolving landscape of project management, and the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital transformation. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Mariam, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners and readers alike. The episode kicks off with the host introducing Mariam Chtchyan, highlighting her extensive experience in the tech industry and her pivotal role at Hack Tech. Hack Tech is a company that has been in the market for nearly a decade, specializing in offering dedicated engineering teams. They position themselves as a partner for both businesses and individuals, focusing on transforming ideas into tangible products, particularly in software and mobile application development. Mariam notes a growing interest in AI among clients, reflecting a broader trend toward digital transformation. Hack Tech supports clients by automating processes and providing consulting services to enhance efficiency. Mariam emphasizes that clients do not need to have a fully fleshed-out project plan before reaching out. Hack Tech provides product managers and UX designers to guide clients through discovery discussions, helping them refine their ideas and understand market dynamics. The landscape of project management has changed significantly, especially post-COVID. While soft skills remain essential, technical knowledge has become increasingly important. Project managers now need to communicate effectively with developers and understand the technical aspects of projects, including programming languages and AI technologies. The episode concludes with the host encouraging listeners to explore Hack Tech's website and reach out for potential collaborations, highlighting the dynamic nature of the tech industry and the critical role of collaboration in driving successful digital transformation initiatives. About Mariam Chtchyan: With over nine years of experience in project and delivery management, the individual currently serves as the Chief Operations Officer at HackTech LLC. They have successfully managed and delivered multiple projects for clients across various industries, utilizing agile methodologies and virtual management tools. Their core competencies include problem-solving, stakeholder management, team leadership, and customer satisfaction. They are passionate about creating value and impact through technology and digital solutions, with the goal of leveraging their skills and experience to help organizations achieve their strategic objectives and vision. About Hack Tech: We are a product and engineering partner for supporting our clients on their digital transformation journey. While it’s similar to outsourcing, the main difference at HackTech is that we are selecting our partners based on culture, making sure that we live by similar values and our team can be motivated by the impact they are making on partners’ projects. Our services cover all life-cycle of development from product management to software engineering and DevOps. Except just filling our partners’ P&E department, we are bringing the latest standards with us from a continuous delivery mindset to data-driven product management, guaranteeing frequent and painless releases to support business 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 Hack Tech website at https://gohacktech.com/ Check out Hack Tech on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hacktech-llc/ Check out Mariam Chtchyan on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mariam-chtchyan-2b2b3b167 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.