The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Mastering Social Media Marketing   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh explores the nuances of social media marketing with Ashley Mason, founder of Dash of Social. This content marketing agency excels in social media management, blog content, email marketing, and overall marketing strategy, particularly for tech startups and smaller companies. The discussion is packed with insights on the current state of social media marketing, the role of AI, and the significance of authenticity and personal connections in crafting a successful marketing strategy. Ashley Mason underscores a notable shift towards "human-centric content," emphasizing the importance of showcasing the people behind a business. This approach builds trust and relatability, creates emotional connections, and helps businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace. Additionally, video content continues to dominate social media, with short-form videos, live streaming, and behind-the-scenes glimpses being particularly effective. AI is also becoming a powerful tool in marketing, aiding in idea generation, data analysis, and personalization, though it should complement, not replace, human creativity and connection. Josh and Ashley agree on the growing importance of authenticity in content. Audiences are increasingly discerning and can easily spot inauthentic content. To maintain authenticity, businesses should avoid generic messaging, share personal stories, and be transparent about their practices and values. Ashley also highlights the importance of a multi-faceted marketing strategy, including public relations, paid advertising, SEO, blogging, and email marketing. For those not ready to hire a marketing agency, Ashley encourages proactive steps like consultations, educational resources, and social media engagement to enhance marketing efforts. Listeners are invited to connect with Dash of Social for further insights and support in their marketing journey.   About Ashley Mason:   Ashley Mason is the founder of Dash of Social, a content marketing agency specializing in social media management, blog content, and email marketing. Additionally, Ashley founded Massachusetts Business Network in 2022, which is the only statewide publication that provides free to low cost resources that support organizations with increasing their visibility and establishing thought leadership through its podcast, blog, and directory. Ashley is a graduate of Stonehill College, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She is a TEDx speaker, has been named a 40 Under 40 Honoree by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, and was recognized as Best Social Media Specialist by Boston Business Women. Ashley currently serves as a Board Member for the Brockton Visiting Nurse Association (BVNA), Middleboro Public Library, and South Shore Young Professionals (SSYP). When she isn't working, you can find her running on her Peloton or curled up on the couch with a book.   About Dash of Social: A content marketing agency specializing in social media management, blog content, and email marketing. Working closely with their clients, Ashley and her team help small businesses and tech startups craft and execute value-driven marketing strategies designed to establish thought leadership, grow online communities, and drive brand awareness. 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 Dash of Social website at https://dashofsocial.com/ Check out Dash of Social on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/company/dash-of-social Check out Ashley Mason on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyjeanmason 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.    

Leadership Development: Embracing the Growing Edge In a recent episode of the podcast, host Josh delves into the intricacies of leadership with Chris Thyberg, a seasoned leadership coach and the founder of "The Serving Way." The conversation sheds light on the multifaceted nature of leadership, particularly the challenges leaders face as they transition from technical roles to leadership positions. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide aspiring and current leaders. Josh sets the stage by underscoring the critical role of effective leadership across various sectors, including nonprofits, startups, and established companies. He introduces the concept of the "growing edge," a term coined by Chris Thyberg to describe the pivotal moment when leaders realize that their existing skills and competencies may no longer suffice for future success. Chris defines the "growing edge" as a critical juncture where leaders experience discomfort or imposter syndrome, recognizing that their previous methods of success are now hindering their progress. This often occurs when a leader who has excelled in a technical role transitions to a leadership position, where managing teams and navigating organizational dynamics require a different skill set. Chris argues that sustainable success in leadership requires a focus on both the outer game and the inner game. The outer game includes the visible aspects of leadership—what leaders say, do, and how they perform, encompassing measurable outcomes, competencies, and performance. The inner game involves self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and presence. Chris likens this to needing an "operating system upgrade," where leaders must cultivate their inner resources to navigate the complexities of their roles and foster a positive environment for their teams. He emphasizes the importance of radical listening and views himself as a midwife for leaders, helping them to birth their potential and navigate their journeys of growth. About Chris Thyberg:   Chris has a driving commitment to serve leaders who serve purposes greater than themselves and seek to offer real value to all their stakeholders. If this is you, Chris is your coach. Chris and his wife have been married for over four decades. Together, they raise chickens, tend the garden, and renew with slow meals, eclectic reading, and outdoor adventures. They delight in spending time with their adult kids, their partners, and are getting ready to welcome their first grandchild. Chris enjoys an occasional whiskey and cigar night with his two grown sons, cheering for Liverpool FC, having fancy coffee with his daughter, and listening to music from ambient to zydeco. Chris loves to travel extensively for professional and personal growth, having visited and worked in Africa, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. For more than 35 years, Chris and his family have lived in a socially and economically diverse Pittsburgh neighborhood. They love being a part of this vibrant, diverse community. Chris and his wife consistently advocate for equitable housing, employment, and education in their area. This passion for service carries into Chris’s calling to help leaders navigate the realities of identity, power, and culture. We all need places where we get to do great work that’s worth doing. That’s why we’re called “The Serving Way.”   About The Serving Way: The Serving Way offers tailored coaching for emerging and experienced leaders in all sectors. My distinct approach as a partner and an ally in your unique development will draw out your inherent powers as a leader. Through outcome-focused, growth-oriented exploration, we will work together at your leading edge to expand skillful, effective action grounded in how you are evolving professionally and personally. Equipped with new perspectives and practices, you will experience fresh options, make bold choices, and take strong action to achieve breakthrough results. As you lead your team in service of great purpose, your enterprise will create lasting value for all of your stakeholders. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Serving Way website at https://theservingway.com/ Check out The Serving Way on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-serving-way/ Check out Chris Thyberg on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christhyberg/ 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.

Insights from an Expert on Entrepreneurship and Personal Development In this episode, we delve into the world of entrepreneurship with Allan Draper, a seasoned entrepreneur and business startup expert. The conversation covers a range of topics, including Allan's journey from practicing law to becoming a successful entrepreneur, the significance of personal branding, the necessity of focusing on a niche, and the sacrifices that come with building a successful business. Allan also shares insights into his upcoming book and his approach to coaching other business leaders. Allan begins by sharing his unique background. Initially, he worked as an attorney but soon realized that entrepreneurship was his true calling. He made a significant career shift by leaving his legal job in Phoenix, Arizona, to start a pest control business in Detroit, Michigan. This decision marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey, which has spanned over a decade and involved multiple ventures across various industries. Allan emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not just a profession for him; it is an integral part of his identity. He has since expanded his portfolio to include a digital marketing agency, a software company, and even a law firm, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in the business world. In addition to running his businesses, Allan is passionate about coaching other entrepreneurs. He limits his coaching to two business owners at a time, allowing him to provide focused support while managing his other commitments. Allan is currently writing a book that addresses the sacrifices required for entrepreneurial success, emphasizing the importance of balancing work with personal life. Allan is also active on social media and engages with the business community through various platforms, including his podcast, which he plans to relaunch. He shares valuable insights and experiences, aiming to inspire and educate fellow entrepreneurs. About Allan Draper: Allan’s story may sound familiar. It’s probably a lot like yours. Allan grew up in home that had very few financial resources. But there was something inside him. Something that yearned for more. Something that made him want to extract every last drop out of his potential. Allan is on a mission to help 10,000 people make short-term sacrifices to build businesses and wealth. 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 Allan Draper's website at https://allandraper.com/ Check out Allan Draper on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanrdraper/ 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 E-commerce: Expert Shopify Strategies with Clayton Bates In the latest episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Clayton Bates, a seasoned Shopify expert and the founder of Inspire Small Business. With over six years of experience and a portfolio of around 600 clients, Clayton has facilitated over $100 million in sales through the websites his company has developed. This episode dives deep into effective e-commerce strategies, focusing on optimizing Shopify websites to boost conversion rates and enhance customer engagement. Clayton Bates is a name synonymous with e-commerce excellence. His journey in the e-commerce space has been marked by a keen understanding of the common pitfalls that new business owners face and a knack for providing actionable solutions. His company, Inspire Small Business, offers a range of services designed to help businesses build and optimize their Shopify websites. Clayton identifies several frequent pitfalls that new e-commerce entrepreneurs encounter. Understanding these mistakes is the first step toward creating a successful online store. Clayton delves into the mindset of e-commerce business owners, highlighting the challenges they face. Many entrepreneurs become overwhelmed by the myriad of tasks involved in running an online store. Prioritizing order fulfillment and social media often takes precedence over website optimization. Clayton emphasizes the significance of the "About" page, which can humanize your brand and significantly influence conversion rates. For listeners interested in improving their e-commerce websites, Clayton offers a free video audit service through Inspire Small Business, providing personalized feedback and actionable tips to enhance website performance.   About Clayton Bates: Clayton Bates is a highly accomplished business professional, a finalist for Business Person of the Year, and a recipient of multiple design and business awards. He is the founder and sales leader at Inspire Small Business, specializing in website design. Since 2018, Clayton has been a Shopify Partner and has been recognized as a Shopify Expert since 2019, driving tens of millions in additional revenue. With over a decade of personal e-commerce experience, he has shipped more than 10,000 orders and secured over 1,000 Page #1 Google rankings. Outside of work, Clayton enjoys spending time with family and friends, riding his motorbike, hitting the gym, and playing cricket. About Inspire Small Business: Inspire Small Business are online business architects with experience managing tens of thousands of orders through their own ventures. In addition, they have supported small businesses globally, generating tens of millions in extra revenue. If you’re ready to collaborate with an agency focused not just on websites but on transformative digital journeys, explore their services. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Inspire Small Business website at https://www.inspiresmallbusiness.com/ Check out Inspire Small Business on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspire-small-business/ Check out Clayton Bates on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-bates/ 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.  

Maximizing Retirement Income: Transition from Active to Passive Income In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Steve Selengut, also known as "The Income Coach." Steve, the author of "Retirement Money Secrets" and the mind behind theincomecoach.net, shares his expertise on financial strategies tailored for business owners and entrepreneurs. The episode delves into retirement planning, transitioning from active income to passive income through investments, and the importance of profit margins. Here, we break down the key insights and actionable advice from the episode to help you optimize your financial future. Steve Selengut specializes in helping individuals transition their investment portfolios into income-generating assets. He often works with business owners contemplating retirement or those looking to optimize their investment strategies. Steve's journey began with selling his business and successfully generating income from his investment portfolio, allowing him to retire comfortably. His investment philosophy centers around a critical question: "How much income is your portfolio generating?" He notes that many portfolios yield less than 3% in income, whereas his own portfolio yields around 10%. The key to achieving higher income lies in using the same securities but packaging them differently to focus on income production. Steve introduces closed-end funds as a powerful tool for income generation. These investment vehicles are designed to generate income rather than grow in market value. They invest in a variety of securities, allowing investors to benefit from income generation while minimizing market risk. Steve likens an investment portfolio to a retail store, where each investment represents a product on the shelf. He advocates for setting a profit target—such as 5%—and encourages clients to sell investments that exceed this target rather than waiting for potentially higher returns. This strategy secures profits and accelerates overall profit margins. By following these steps, you can build a robust investment portfolio that ensures financial stability and freedom in your retirement years. About Steve Selengut: Steve Selengut is a seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience in investment management, advisory services, and as a Registered Investment Advisor (RIA). Currently, Steve focuses on coaching both individuals and fellow advisors to achieve income independence for themselves and their clients. He is also promoting his second book, Retirement Money Secrets. Throughout his extensive career, Steve managed approximately 325 individual portfolios both domestically and internationally. He stands out as one of the few investment authors with direct experience in managing client investments. Steve demonstrates how to generate significantly more potential spending money than is typically needed, consistently quarter after quarter and year after year. His method enables clients to confidently state that neither stock market corrections nor rising interest rates will negatively impact their portfolio income. Instead, these conditions can actually accelerate income growth. Unlike most investment portfolios, which often produce modest returns of 3% or less, Steve's approach safely achieves returns that are two or more times higher. About The Retirement Income Coach LLC: Income Coach Steve Selengut spent his 40+ year career managing millions in client retirement assets for a higher level of income than most investors achieve. He shares a lifetime of income-building insights and innovative investing techniques in his new book Retirement Money Secrets, and his coaching services, and investment security Selection Universes. Steve"s methodology has been one of the best-kept secrets in the investment management business. But not anymore. Now, he’s showing everyone how to use the oldest type of investment fund in existance in an active, hands-on portfolio management strategy with an income focus. As explained in "Secrets", CEF investing is a proven route to substantially more retirement income.   Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest   Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Retirement Income Coach LLC website at https://theincomecoach.net/ Check out The Retirement Income Coach LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-retirement-income-coach-llc/ Check out Steve Selengut on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/privateinvestmentmanagement 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.  

In this final episode of our special series, we reflect on the profound impact relationships have on doing business. We discuss how trust and authenticity are key to building strong business relationships that drive success.Key Points Covered:Building Trust in Business Relationships:Trust is fundamental to any successful relationship, especially in business. Josh and Alissa discuss how entrepreneurs can build and maintain trust with clients and partners, emphasizing the importance of consistent, genuine interactions to foster long-term loyalty and success.Navigating Personal and Professional Relationships:The lines between personal and professional relationships can often blur in business. This episode explores how entrepreneurs can balance these dynamics to ensure relationships remain effective and productive without compromising personal boundaries.The Power of Authenticity in Networking:Authenticity is a crucial element in building genuine relationships that resonate with clients and partners. Josh shares insights on how entrepreneurs can embrace authenticity in their business dealings to create deeper, more meaningful connections that lead to sustained success.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: Wayne Moloney]:Wayne discusses the concept of relationship selling and the importance of focusing on helping clients achieve their outcomes. He emphasizes the need for strong, trusted relationships to build a successful business.[Guest 2: Liz Wolfe]:Liz talks about the importance of authenticity in relationship-building and how being true to your values and passions can strengthen your business relationships and enhance overall success.Join us as we explore how to cultivate relationships that last and make a meaningful impact in your business!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:1148 – Relationship Marketing and B2B Sales in 2022 with Wayne Moloney778 – The Importance of Sales Follow Up with Liz WolfeResources:B2B Sales 101: Stop Selling, Start Serving and Build Relationships7 Go-Giver Mindset Tips: Ignite Your ProsperityThe Secrets of Consistent Sales: B2B Relationship Building

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, we explore the importance of networking and why your network truly is your net worth. We discuss how building and nurturing a strong network can lead to long-term success and create meaningful business opportunities.Key Points Covered:Aligning with the Right People for Success:The discussion begins with the significance of surrounding yourself with individuals who share your goals and values. Josh explains how aligning with like-minded people can amplify success, creating a supportive ecosystem where everyone benefits from shared achievements and mutual growth.Building and Maintaining Digital Relationships:With much of today’s networking happening online, Josh and Alissa explore effective strategies for building and maintaining strong business relationships in the digital age. They offer practical tips on leveraging digital platforms to foster genuine connections and keep relationships thriving.Leveraging Weak Ties for Greater Reach:The episode also highlights the importance of weaker ties—those less obvious connections that can open doors to broader networks and unexpected opportunities. Josh shares how entrepreneurs can effectively tap into these connections to expand their influence and reach.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: Blake Johnson]:Blake discusses the importance of aligning with people who are working toward the same goals and how a strong network can create a supportive environment where success is shared. He emphasizes the philosophy that “what’s good for one is good for all.”[Guest 2: Dr. Benjamin Ritter]:Dr. Ritter shares his journey of building trust and credibility through networking in the leadership development space. He talks about the importance of crafting a compelling message and nurturing relationships that go beyond immediate sales.Listen in to discover how to grow your network and enhance your business’s success!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:875 – The Serial Entrepreneur Career with Blake Johnson230 - Investing in Relationships with LFY Consulting's Dr. Benjamin RitterResources:Growing Your Podcast Community With Social MediaLeveraging ‘Whisper Networks’ to Propel Your BusinessPodcast Community Secrets: 10 Power Tips for Authority

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, we delve into the power of storytelling in sales. We explore how compelling stories can connect with audiences, build trust, and drive business growth across various industries.Key Points Covered:The Importance of Storytelling in Business:Josh and Alissa discuss why storytelling is more than just a marketing tool—it’s a powerful way to create emotional connections with audiences. They highlight how effective storytelling can differentiate a brand and foster loyalty by making messages memorable and impactful.Crafting Stories That Resonate Across Audiences:The episode provides insights on how business leaders can tailor their stories to connect with diverse audiences. Josh shares examples from the podcast where guests effectively adapted their narratives to appeal to different sectors and customer bases, demonstrating the versatility of good storytelling.Leveraging Stories for Business Growth:We examine how storytelling isn’t just about engagement—it’s a strategic approach to driving sales and business development. Josh and Alissa discuss practical ways entrepreneurs can use stories to enhance their sales efforts and connect more deeply with potential clients.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: John Livesay]:John talks about how storytelling is essential for drawing in audiences and fostering business growth. He shares his perspective on why stories are more persuasive than data alone, helping businesses connect on a deeper level with their customers.[Guest 2: Michael Houlihan and Bonnie Harvey, Barefoot Spirit]:Michael and Bonnie share their journey of building Barefoot Wines, highlighting how storytelling played a crucial role in their brand’s success. They discuss their transition into helping other entrepreneurs turn their stories into impactful Hollywood-style narratives.Tune in to learn how to craft stories that sell and create lasting connections with your audience!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:1163 – Make Better Sales Through Exceptional Storytelling with John Livesay259 - Being Resourceful with What You Have with The Barefoot Spirit's Michael Houlihan and Bonnie HarveyResources:How to Be an Exceptional Podcast Host8 Reasons to Start a Podcast for Your B2B BusinessB2B Podcast as a Business Development Tool

In this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, we kick off our special series celebrating 2000 episodes by exploring the theme of generosity in business. We discuss the importance of leading with generosity and finding the balance between giving and gaining in the world of podcasting and beyond.Key Points Covered:The Evolution of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:Josh and Alissa reflect on the origins of the podcast, which started as a tool for interviewing clients in 2018, and how it has grown into a platform for meaningful conversations with entrepreneurs worldwide. They discuss the journey from its humble beginnings in PR to becoming a cornerstone of business advice and inspiration.The Philosophy of Leading with Generosity:The episode dives into the Go-Giver philosophy and how it has shaped the way the podcast engages with guests and audiences. Josh shares insights on how giving value upfront—without expecting anything in return—has fostered trust and long-lasting relationships, both on and off the show.Balancing Generosity and Strategic Gains:We explore how podcast guests can maximize their impact by actively participating in promoting and repurposing their appearances. The discussion focuses on strategies for balancing generosity with strategic actions to ensure mutual benefits for both the host and the guest.Featured Clips:[Guest 1: Bob Burg, Burg Communications, Inc.]:Bob discusses the transformative power of generosity in business, explaining why leading with a giving mindset can create more meaningful and profitable connections. He highlights the importance of giving first as a core business strategy.[Guest 2: Jessica Rhodes, Interview Connections]:Jessica emphasizes that simply appearing on a podcast isn’t enough. She talks about the importance of guests taking an active role in sharing and repurposing their content to fully leverage their podcast appearances for business growth.Listen to this episode to discover how to give generously while also reaping the rewards of meaningful engagement!Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgePast episodes mentioned in this retrospective installment:1192 - The Go-Giver Philosophy with Bob Burg1921 – Maximizing Your Impact with Jessica Rhodes Resources:7 Go-Giver Mindset Tips: Ignite Your ProsperityPodcast Guest Preparation 6 Expert Tips to Elevate ImpactHow to Be an Exceptional Podcast Guest

PodCash Leader Network Attraction Mastery WorkshopReaching the 2000th episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" is no small feat. Josh Elledge, the host, has spent countless hours conversing with over 2000 leaders, amassing approximately 40,000 minutes of content. This milestone episode is a treasure trove of insights and strategies for B2B business owners looking to attract high-value clients, partners, and investors without relying on traditional lead generation methods, spam, or ads. Let's dive into the key takeaways and actionable advice shared in this special episode.Josh emphasizes that the cornerstone of attracting high-value opportunities lies in building genuine relationships. Many business owners struggle with lead generation not because of a marketing problem, but due to a lack of meaningful connections. He advises engaging in meaningful conversations, showing generosity, and leveraging perceived authority. To achieve consistent and predictable business growth, Josh outlines six key strategies: public relations and visibility, social media engagement, networking, direct outreach, paid advertising, and SEO and content marketing. He highlights that 90% of top-level B2B decision-makers typically do not respond to unsolicited sales attempts, advocating for trust-building and avoiding pushy sales tactics.Josh also discusses the importance of language in business, encouraging listeners to view interactions as opportunities to build genuine connections rather than merely pursuing sales. He advises adopting "noble intent" and prioritizing high-value relationships over immediate sales. Authority is earned through consistent effort, and Josh suggests assessing your competence and sharing your expertise. Leveraging platforms like podcasts can significantly enhance your ability to build connections and authority. By crafting enticing invitations and being a generous host, you can attract high-quality connections. Josh shares success stories to illustrate the power of building genuine relationships, emphasizing that podcasting offers unique advantages for organic networking and transitioning to business opportunities.Links for this episode:Explore our philosophy with a FREE trial: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/freetrial Check out our Partner Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/partner Our VIP Program: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/leader-intros Check out UpMyInfluence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/upmyinfluenceCheck out Josh Elledge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshelledgeResources:B2B Sales 101: Stop Selling, Start Serving and Build RelationshipsMastering the Art of B2B Social Selling: Tips, Tricks, and Strategies for SuccessThe Secrets of Consistent Sales: B2B Relationship Building