The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Leadership Insights: Cultivating an Olympic Mindset for Business Success In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Lee Povey, a high-performance leadership coach who specializes in guiding founders, startups, and teams to develop an "Olympic mindset." This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and optimize their business performance. Below, we break down the key themes and actionable advice shared by Lee Povey, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners. Josh kicks off the episode by emphasizing the importance of networking and offers a valuable resource for business growth. He shares that he has had private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to identify the best sources of business growth. To help listeners, Josh provides a free video resource that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in their industry over the next 6 to 8 months, without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. Listeners are encouraged to visit his website, Up My Influence, to access this content. Lee Povey is introduced as a high-performance leadership coach with a unique background in athletics. He primarily works with startups experiencing rapid growth, helping them transition from the gritty early stages of business to a more structured and empowered leadership approach. Lee emphasizes the importance of letting go of the need to be the smartest person in the room, allowing team members to flourish and contribute to the company's success. About Lee Povey: Lee Povey is a high-performance leadership coach specializing in working with founders and start-ups. As a former elite cycling athlete and Olympic Development Program Coach for USA Cycling, Lee has a deep understanding of what it takes to lead at the highest levels. Through coaching hundreds of World, National, and Olympic champions, Lee has gained invaluable experience in developing World-Class leadership and people. He helps leaders and high-achievers understand how best to motivate, lead, give feedback, and empower their teams to incredible growth and performance. He breaks down the human experience in a relatable way, giving tips, skill sets, and valuable mindset insights, allowing us all to perform like Olympians while retaining a strong focus on happiness and longer-term fulfillment. He also runs men’s groups as a way to give back and help develop better fathers, husbands, friends, and leaders. About Lee Povey Coaching:   Lee Povey Coaching is dedicated to unlocking the highest potential of visionary leaders, empowering them to excel in creating, inspiring, and making a global impact. With two decades of experience coaching elite Entrepreneurs, World Champions, and Olympians, Lee Povey brings a wealth of expertise to help individuals and teams achieve remarkable success. Through cutting-edge psychological techniques and personalized coaching—encompassing 1:1 sessions, group coaching, workshops, and mentorship—Lee Povey Coaching supports leaders in building the next billion-dollar enterprise.   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 Lee Povey Coaching website at https://www.leepovey.com/ Check out Lee Povey Coaching on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/leepoveycoaching/about/ Check out Lee Povey on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/leepovey/ 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 Burnout, Embracing Self-Care, and the Power of Play   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Laura Nguyen, an executive coach, marketing consultant, and founder of Solle Solutions. The episode delves into critical themes such as burnout, self-care, and the significance of play in both personal and professional settings. Laura shares her insights and experiences, offering valuable strategies for individuals and organizations to manage stress and enhance overall well-being. Laura Nguyen brings over 20 years of experience in digital marketing and has recently transitioned into coaching after experiencing burnout herself. Her journey led her to develop a coaching framework designed to help others navigate similar challenges. Laura's upcoming book, "Career Break Compass," aims to provide a structured approach to taking intentional time off and recovering from burnout. Burnout is a pressing issue, particularly among founders and business leaders, with nearly half reporting feelings of burnout, overwhelm, or anxiety, often considering exiting their organizations due to immense pressure. Laura introduces her four-piece model for self-care, which consists of Play, Pause, Plan, and Pursue. Each component plays a crucial role in maintaining a healthy work-life balance and preventing burnout. Play is essential for creativity and problem-solving, Pause involves regular check-ins and mindfulness, Plan focuses on setting and achieving goals, and Pursue encourages engaging in passions and new experiences. Laura also outlines eight steps to overcome fear and emphasizes the importance of building authentic relationships in business. As the episode wraps up, Laura invites listeners to visit her website for free resources and encourages everyone to prioritize their well-being and seek joy in their daily lives.   About Laura Nguyen: Laura Nguyen has nearly 20 years of experience in digital marketing, advertising, and eCommerce. She is an experienced growth-focused marketing executive with an extensive background in data-driven marketing, demand generation and branding for DTC and B2B Fortune 500 companies, private equity and private businesses. She has led high-performing teams to achieve organizational growth and market share dominance. As an advocate for diversity and inclusion, Laura led business resource groups at the corporate level. Laura received her Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science at Truman State University, and her Master in Business Administration from Rochester Institute of Technology. About Solle Solutions: Solle Solutions provides consulting and fractional marketing leadership engagements. We begin with a comprehensive marketing opportunity assessment to understand the consumer and segmentation opportunities. We deliver strategic performance marketing recommendations to accelerate 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 Solle Solutions website at https://sollesolutions.com/ Check out Solle Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/solle-solutions Check out Laura Nguyen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauran546/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Building Your Business Tribe: The Essential Role of Community in Entrepreneurship In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge sat down with Nick Berry, a seasoned entrepreneur and the host of "The Business Owners Journey" podcast. The conversation delved into Nick's extensive experience in entrepreneurship, his commitment to helping fellow business owners enhance their skills, and the critical role of community and mentorship in achieving success. This blog post will break down the key themes and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing valuable insights for aspiring and current business owners. Nick Berry is a serial entrepreneur who has co-founded and acquired numerous businesses over the years. His primary focus is on empowering business owners to excel in their ventures. During the conversation, Nick elaborates on the challenges business owners face, particularly the overwhelming number of tasks and distractions that can hinder their progress. He advocates for establishing a clear strategy that not only defines what entrepreneurs should focus on but also outlines actionable steps to achieve their goals. Nick highlights three key areas of focus for business owners: leadership development, strategic planning, and operational systems. A significant theme in the episode is the importance of community and mentorship for business owners. Nick emphasizes that entrepreneurship can be a lonely journey, and seeking support is vital. He encourages business owners to curate a support system that includes one-on-one guidance, peer communities, and intimate groups. Nick reflects on how these support systems have been pivotal in his own career and how they can significantly impact the growth of other entrepreneurs. By following the actionable advice and insights shared by Nick Berry, business owners can develop effective strategies, grow as leaders, and build supportive communities that drive their success. About Nick Berry: Nick Berry is an accomplished entrepreneur, CEO, mentor, and author, whose track record includes founding and/or acquiring several dozen companies since 2002. A great deal of Nick's two decades of experience as a business owner has been working with other business owners and equipping them with the skills to handle the challenges and uncertainty they face along their path. He’s started or acquired several dozen businesses, and in the process has earned secrets and knowledge that comes with it. He’s got experience with a variety of businesses and business partners, hundreds of employees, had several successful exits, and a few that never took off. He’s recurring revenue’s #1 fan, and his companies have been recognized for growth, culture, and client satisfaction. And it's been 100% bootstrapped. About Business Owner's Journey Podcast: The Business Owner’s Journey is a podcast for business owners who are driven to grow and improve and are looking for their next breakthrough ‘Aha!’ moment.  I won’t sugarcoat it: The path of a business owner can be tough. It’s complex, uncertain, and always evolving. And it’s made harder if you try to figure it all out alone. But it can also be incredibly exciting and fulfilling, especially when you learn to prepare yourself for the challenges. We're here to shorten the learning curve for entrepreneurs and business owners by getting other experienced business owners to pull back the curtain and share their hard-earned lessons learned. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Fitness Revolution website at https://frnation.com/ Check out SEOContentSurge website at https://www.seocontentsurge.com/ Check out Fitness Consulting Group website at https://www.nickberry.info/companies/about-fitness-consulting-group Check out Nick Berry on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickberry4/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Building Bridges in a Remote World: Enhancing Communication with AI Coaching   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with James Lawrence, the CEO and co-founder of Happy. This platform is dedicated to improving organizational culture and communication within companies, particularly in the evolving landscape of hybrid and remote work environments. The discussion centers around the challenges of managing people effectively, a shift accelerated by the COVID-19 pandemic, and how AI can play a pivotal role in addressing these challenges. James begins by sharing his extensive experience as a CEO over the past 30 years, noting that most organizational challenges stem from people-related issues. He explains that his recent focus has been on developing technology that helps companies accelerate their people management processes at scale. Reflecting on his early leadership experiences, James acknowledges the difficulties he faced in effectively leading teams and recognizes that larger organizations often struggle even more with training and managing personnel. Josh and James discuss the critical need for a positive workplace culture, whether in-person or virtual. They agree that fostering a sense of value among team members is essential for organizational success. James elaborates on how the Happy platform addresses these needs by providing AI-enhanced coaching tailored to individual employees. This coaching is integrated into the tools that employees use daily, such as Slack and Microsoft Teams, making it easily accessible and relevant. About James Lawrence: With more than 25 years of being a CEO and founder, James Lawrence loves to share his insights on leadership, organizational culture and the intersection of technology in the workplace. James believes the cornerstone of every successful organization is its people. His mission is to help people love their work and get connected with their teams because, in his words, "when people work better, we all win, together.” James is a serial entrepreneur with a passion for cultivating great workplaces and empowering people. At 48, he's the co-founder and CEO of Happy Companies, a startup that uses technology to deliver AI-enhanced Coaching. Happy revolutionize the way organizations encourage improved communication, collaboration and engagement with their employees at scale. Happy delivers plug-and-play AI-enhanced Coaching via tools like Slack, Gmail, Zoom and Teams. Happy believes that effective manager and employee relationships are key to creating organizations that are healthy, productive, and profitable. His journey to leadership wasn't straightforward. Early in his career, James learned the hard way that authority doesn't come from a title; it comes from genuinely understanding and connecting with your team. With a background of launching four startups, two auto racing championships under his belt and previous leadership roles as the CEO of Power Automedia and Chairman of the Specialty Equipment Manufacturing Association (SEMA), James brings a unique blend of speed and innovation to the business world. James places a strong emphasis on nurturing talent and fostering the next generation of leaders, always with an eye toward meaningful work. James is married to his amazing wife Melissa and is father to three kids – Bradley, Jordan and Taylor. When he's not leading his team or spending time with his family, James is likely coaching youth football, driving a race car faster than 200 mph, learning to fly, or diving into one of his favorite books, which range from "The Hard Thing About Hard Things" to "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People About Happy Companies: Happy is dedicated to empowering people—to improve how every team works together. We help everyone become the best version of themselves. Happy is a SAAS Tech Startup with a proprietary platform designed to enhance employee engagement and boost organizational performance in the #future of work. 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 Happy Companies website at https://happycompanies.com/ Check out Happy Companies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/happycompanies Check out James Lawrence on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesflawrence 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.  

Becoming a Destination Employer: Attracting, Recruiting, and Retaining Talent   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge sat down with Gerry Gadoury, the founder and managing director of Red Beard Solutions and author of "Destination Employer." The conversation delved into the intricacies of leadership, talent acquisition, and the concept of becoming a "destination employer." This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for business leaders looking to attract, recruit, and retain top talent. Josh Elledge introduces the episode by highlighting the importance of effective leadership and talent acquisition, sharing his own experiences and resources available at upmyinfluence.com. Gerry Gadoury, a former United States Marine Corps sergeant, transitioned into the business world nearly 30 years ago. His journey began as a technical recruiter and evolved into management consulting, where he developed the "Destination Employer" methodology. This approach focuses on helping businesses attract, recruit, and retain top talent, making them desirable places to work. Gerry emphasizes that leadership is a continuous journey rather than a destination. Effective leadership requires ongoing development and self-awareness. One of the first steps in becoming an effective leader is to find a leadership style that resonates with you. Gerry introduces the concept of a "candidate attraction engine," crucial for attracting top talent despite constraints. The three phases of the Destination Employer Methodology—Attraction, Recruitment, and Retention—are essential for building a reputation as a company where professionals can significantly advance their careers. For more resources and to connect with Gerry Gadoury, visit destinationemployer.seo. To stay updated with Josh Elledge and "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," visit upmyinfluence.com and subscribe to the podcast for daily inspiration and motivation. About Gerry Gadoury:   Gerry Gadoury is a former Marine Sergeant who has spent the last 20 years in the Technology Professional Services Industry. In that time, he has been a recruiter, salesperson, manager, consultant, speaker, trainer, executive, and business owner. Through it all his passion has been building and leading highly effective, international technology, sales, and recruitment teams. Utilizing that experience, he designed the Destination Employer methodology to empower Start-Up and early-stage companies to compete with, and succeed against, established industry leaders. Complementing the Destination Employer methodology, Mr. Gadoury created the industry’s first AI, Cybersecurity, Cloud, & Tech focused Recruitment & Retention as a Service (RRaaS) program to assist Government Agency and Private industry partners to save money while building the technology teams they need to succeed in their vital missions.   About RedBeard Solutions:   RedBeard Solutions is a cyber security and information technology professional services firm that helps companies and government agencies master their technical environments and crush their projects. Specializes in robust cybersecurity & technology professional services and custom talent solutions to maximize your team’s effectiveness. With our expertise and access to top talent, we deliver tailored solutions for your organization’s unique needs. Trust us to fortify your systems in an ever-evolving digital landscape. 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 RedBeard Solutions website at https://redbeardsol.com/ Check out RedBeard Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/redbeard-solutions Check out Gerry Gadoury on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gerrygadoury Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence:   We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.    

Transforming the Kitchen and Wardrobe Manufacturing Industry In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Sina Meshkani, the founder of Sinaholz. Sinaholz is a pioneering company that offers configurator software designed to streamline the design and production processes for kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers. This episode delves into the innovative solutions provided by Sinaholz, the importance of customization, and the role of 3D visualization in the industry, especially in the wake of changing consumer behaviors post-pandemic. Josh kicks off the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience, having spoken with over 2,000 industry leaders, Josh shares insights on achieving 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. He promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines these strategies that have helped him generate significant revenue over the years. As the conversation shifts to Sina, Josh expresses excitement about his work and the elegant platform his company has developed. Sina, with 24 years of experience in kitchen and wardrobe manufacturing, explains his mission to share his expertise with other businesses. He describes how his company’s configurator software automates the entire process from sales to production, allowing for customization that meets the demands of today’s market. Josh prompts Sina to elaborate on the elements of his platform, encouraging him to explain it in a way that resonates with listeners who may not be able to visualize the technology. Sina uses a relatable analogy, asking listeners to imagine a kitchen manufacturer receiving a request for a customized kitchen design. He explains that customers often gather ideas from various sources and expect a comprehensive plan that includes 3D visualizations, quotations, and shop drawings. Sinaholz’s configurator software addresses this need by providing a seamless environment for designing, estimating, and visualizing projects, ultimately sending the finalized designs to the factory. Josh highlights that Sinaholz primarily serves the B2B sector, working with kitchen and wardrobe manufacturers rather than individual consumers. Sina confirms this, noting that while they can connect individual clients with suppliers, their main focus is on supporting businesses in the industry. About Sina Meshkani: Sina Meshkani has been an entrepreneur for more than Twenty years. Initially, he built kitchen cabinets in an 80 m2 workshop with elementary tools. He and his team successfully established themselves in the market by using innovative designs and 3D rendering in interior design for the first time in their local market. He is skilled in Cisco networking and coding applications. His goal is to bring joy, happiness and a new lifestyle into other people’s homes. To achieve this, he has done his best to build a happy, trustworthy and transcendent organization by learning new skills and training and coaching his team. When he’s not glued to his computer, he spends his free time sketching, programming, and reading books. About Sinaholz: With 20 years of experience in the panel industry, the company is a pioneer in its field. Its innovative use of Industry 4.0-based software (imos) distinguishes it from competitors, enabling it to stay ahead of the curve. The company values collaboration and resource sharing, viewing its clients and partners as essential collaborators in the pursuit of success. The mission is to provide a comprehensive solution that addresses unique needs. Driven by innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction, the company focuses not only on the work itself but also on fostering strong relationships built on communication and trust. 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 Sinaholz website at https://sinaholz.com/ Check out Sinaholz on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sinaholz-gmbh/ Check out Sina Meshkani on LinkedIn at https://de.linkedin.com/in/sina-meshkani 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.  

Escaping Founder-Led Sales In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Corey Quinn, an expert in helping agency founders transition away from founder-led sales. This episode delves into the challenges faced by agency founders, the importance of specialization, and actionable insights from Corey’s book, "Anyone Not Everyone." Corey Quinn, with 17 years of experience in the agency space, shares his journey from a sales role focused on PPC and SEO to becoming the Chief Marketing Officer for a nine-figure agency. His experiences and insights culminated in his book, which aims to help agency founders escape the founder-led sales trap. Corey identifies three primary reasons why agency founders struggle to move away from founder-led sales: lack of focus, watered-down positioning, and inadequate sales systems. Many founders start as generalists, offering services to a wide range of clients, which complicates scaling. Corey emphasizes the need for agency founders to specialize in a specific vertical market, allowing them to communicate their value more effectively and attract clients who resonate with their expertise. He provides actionable advice such as identifying core competencies, narrowing the target audience, and developing a consistent sales process. Additionally, Corey advises clarifying the value proposition, educating the audience, and implementing a CRM system to track leads and manage the sales pipeline. Corey outlines a three-month program designed to guide founders from being generalists to becoming deep specialists. The program includes identifying the right vertical market, positioning the agency, and attracting new clients. Founders learn to assess their strengths, evaluate market demand, and align with their passion. They are also equipped with strategies to effectively market their specialized services and generate leads. As the conversation wraps up, Josh encourages listeners to take action and access a free audiobook of "Anyone Not Everyone" on Corey’s website. By following the actionable advice and insights shared in this episode, agency founders can overcome the challenges of founder-led sales and build a sustainable, scalable business. About Corey Quinn: Corey has 15 years of in-house agency experience, including as Scorpion's CMO, where he helped grow revenue from $20M to $150M in 6 years.   He just published his bestselling book: "Anyone, Not Everyone: a Proven System for Agencies to Escape Founder-Led Sales."  Today, he helps digital agency founders scale revenue and profits with Deep Specialization.   About Corey Quinn, Inc.: We help agency owners break the cycle of flat sales and high customer churn by becoming a vertical market specialist. 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 Corey Quinn,Inc. website at https://www.coreyquinn.com/ Check out Corey Quinn,Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/corey-quinn-inc/ Check out Corey Quinn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coreyquinn 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 Intersection of Podcasting and Self-Improvement In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kevin Palmieri, the founder of Next Level University. Kevin shares his journey into podcasting, the challenges faced by new podcasters, and strategies for building a successful business model around a podcast. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, offering actionable advice and expert insights for aspiring podcasters and self-improvement enthusiasts. Kevin's fascination with podcasts began as a listener. A pivotal moment during a YouTube interview made him realize that podcasting could be a viable career path. This epiphany led him to leave his job in 2018 and pursue podcasting full-time. Kevin describes his audience as "dream chasers"—emotionally driven individuals seeking fulfillment in various aspects of their lives, from relationships to career success. Next Level University offers a range of services to support individuals on their self-improvement journeys, including one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and live events, catering to a diverse audience. Josh and Kevin discuss the phenomenon of "pod fade," where many new podcasters give up before reaching their potential. Kevin emphasizes the importance of commitment and understanding the effort required to succeed in podcasting. He advises aspiring podcasters to identify their unique expertise and create a clear path for their listeners to engage further. By focusing on delivering value and understanding their audience's needs, aspiring podcasters can navigate the challenges of the industry and create a lasting impact. About Kevin Palmieri: He is the CFO, Founder, and Co-Host of Next Level University, a globally recognized Top 100 Self-Improvement Podcast with over 1,100 episodes and more than 675,000 listens across 140 countries. While many encounter rock bottom, he discovered that rock bottom had a basement. In his mid-20s, he seemed to have it all—a beautiful girlfriend, a high-paying job, a sports car, and his dream body—yet he found himself sitting on the edge of a bed, contemplating suicide. Following this critical moment, he committed fully to holistic self-improvement, determined to overcome his anxiety and depression and to finally live the life he had always envisioned. Years later, he now hosts a podcast that influences hundreds of thousands of people worldwide. He has transformed the podcast into a multi six-figure business and has recorded well over 1,000 episodes. Additionally, he has delivered hundreds of speeches, trainings, and coaching calls to people across the globe. The primary change was within himself. By focusing on learning what he did not know (and unlearning much of what he had), his life began to transform. He is passionate about discussing topics such as Consistency, Commitment, Habits, Mindset, Confidence, Fear, Relationships, Limiting Beliefs, and more. He advocates for a heart-driven but no-nonsense approach to holistic self-improvement and is eager to teach others about what it truly takes to reach the next level. About Next Level University: At Next Level University, we are committed to helping you get to the next level of your life, love, health, and wealth. No matter where you are in life, there is always a next level. Through podcast episodes, weekly meetups and one-on-one and group coaching, we share tips, strategies, and lessons we’ve learned along the way to help you get to the next level! 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 Next Level University website at https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/ Check out Next Level University on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/next-level-university/ Check out Kevin Palmieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

Unlocking Business Acquisitions and Investment Strategies In a recent podcast episode, host Josh delves into the intricate world of business acquisitions and investment strategies with Matt Bodnar, the founder and managing partner of Eidolon Capital. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in the dynamics of buying and investing in businesses, especially in the context of the impending retirement of baby boomers. Here, we break down the key themes and actionable advice shared by Matt Bodnar, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike. Matt Bodnar, based in Nashville, Tennessee, explains his role at Eidolon Capital, where he focuses on buying and investing in businesses globally. He highlights a significant trend in the market: the impending retirement of approximately 70 million baby boomers over the next decade, which will lead to a substantial transfer of business ownership. Around 12 million businesses, valued at about $10 trillion, will need to change hands, creating a unique opportunity for investors. Matt’s investment philosophy centers around acquiring businesses with a long-term perspective, aiming to hold onto businesses indefinitely and providing a stable and supportive environment for the companies they acquire. Josh also highlights Matt’s successful podcast, "The Science of Success," where he has interviewed numerous thought leaders, including Robert Cialdini, Brené Brown, and Adam Grant. Matt shares that his interest in psychology and human behavior has driven his podcasting journey, as he seeks to understand the underlying principles that govern business interactions and decision-making. Reflecting on his extensive interviews, Matt emphasizes the importance of mastering fundamental practices such as getting enough sleep, exercising, and maintaining emotional well-being. He also discusses the significance of networking and the concept of "the strength of weak ties," explaining that the most valuable connections often come from acquaintances or individuals on the periphery of one’s network. About Matt Bodnar: He is the Founder and Managing Partner of Eidolon Capital and serves as the major investor and Chairman of Ozark River Manufacturing, Fresh Technology, Inc., Highland Industrial Staffing, and Tennessee Rack. Additionally, he is a Managing Partner at his family office, Bodnar Investment Group. In 2018, he was named to Forbes' “30 Under 30,” and he is currently a partner in several Inc. “Fastest Growing Companies in America,” including Fresh Technology, Inc. and Tazikis, Inc. About Eidolon Capital: Eidolon Capital’s investments span a range of industries including software, manufacturing, industrial distribution, information technology, staffing, consumer products, real estate, and medical equipment. The firm focuses on lower middle-market acquisitions with EBITDA ranging from $2 million to $10 million. Although Eidolon is industry agnostic, it specializes in control acquisitions in services, technology, distribution, and manufacturing. 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 Eidolon Capital website at https://eidoloncapital.com/ Check out Eidolon Capital on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/eidolon-capital/ Check out Matt Bodnar website at https://mattbodnar.com/ Check out Matt Bodnar on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattbodnar/ 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 Essential Benefits of Outsourcing Marketing Functions In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Stevie Brown, CEO of The Change Starter, a company specializing in outsourced marketing for SMEs. Stevie discusses the challenges entrepreneurs face in managing marketing efforts and the significant advantages of outsourcing these functions to expert teams. She emphasizes her commitment to bringing corporate-level marketing expertise to smaller businesses, helping them clarify their goals and target audience, and implementing bespoke marketing strategies. Stevie and Josh delve into the common misconception that entrepreneurs must manage all aspects of their business, including marketing. Stevie argues that as businesses grow, it becomes crucial to recognize one's limitations and seek external expertise. She highlights the importance of long-term partnerships in marketing, noting that effective marketing is a continuous process requiring ongoing attention and adaptation. Stevie shares insights into the transformative journey clients experience when they engage with The Change Starter, often finding themselves liberated to focus on higher-level strategic initiatives as they trust the marketing team and see results. Stevie introduces her book, "The Care Factor Fix," which explores the disconnect between business owners and marketing providers. She outlines the CARE framework—Commitment, Accountability, Realism, and Engagement—as essential pillars for fostering successful relationships. By focusing on these pillars, businesses can cultivate strong, long-term partnerships with their marketing providers, enhancing the effectiveness of marketing efforts and fostering a collaborative environment. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the importance of thoughtful leadership and leveraging external expertise to drive growth, encouraging listeners to reflect on their marketing practices and implement the CARE framework for better results. About Stevie Brown: Stevie V. Brown is a 20-year marketing industry veteran, author of The CARE Factor Fix™ How to Finally Get Results from Marketing” and CEO of The Change Starter®; a boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. With her infectious energy, eccentric British humour, and honest, direct approach, Stevie brings a refreshing sense of realism to any audience ready to learn and be challenged. About The Change Starter®: A boutique Marketing Consultancy Based in Australia and operating globally in delivering across all aspects of marketing. The Change Starter® specializes in building outsourced marketing teams and marketing systems for medium-sized businesses that make $1- 10 million annually. 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 Change Starter® website at https://www.thechangestarter.com/ Check out The Change Starter® on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/company/thechangestarter Check out Stevie Brown on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevievbrown-outsourced-marketing 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.