The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

A Comprehensive Guide to Modern Leadership: Embracing Diversity and Inclusion for Success  In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with John T. Meyer, the founder of Leadmore. The discussion delves into leadership, organizational culture, and personal development, offering valuable insights for current and aspiring leaders. This blog post breaks down the key themes and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a detailed guide to enhancing leadership skills and fostering a positive organizational culture.Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to uncover where their best business comes from. Josh promotes a free video resource available on his website, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in one’s industry without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. He emphasizes that his methods have been successful for over 15 years, generating eight figures in revenue for his companies. Josh then introduces John T. Meyer, expressing excitement about the conversation ahead.John T. Meyer explains that Leadmore is dedicated to helping leaders become the best versions of themselves. He believes that everyone has the potential to lead, regardless of their title or background. John emphasizes the importance of stepping up to lead when the opportunity arises. His approach involves coaching entrepreneurs and delivering workshops to foster leadership skills. As the conversation progresses, Josh asks John about the trends he has observed in leadership over the past six months and what he anticipates for the future. John identifies a consistent challenge: leaders are focused on hiring, retaining, and engaging great talent. He notes that the traditional view of company culture—characterized by perks like beer in the fridge or ping pong tables—is outdated. Instead, he advocates for building values-driven cultures where leaders clearly communicate their beliefs and stand for something meaningful.About John Meyer:John T. Meyer is on a mission to inspire others to be the best version of themselves. John has spent 15 years learning leadership on the job by trying, making mistakes, and pushing himself and his teams to be Better Every Day. Today, John is the Executive Director of Leadership South Dakota, and coaches founders through his company Leadmore. In 2011, John co-founded Lemonly, a design firm that helps the world's best brands like Netflix, Marriott, Major League Baseball, and Google tell their story. As Lemonly's CEO, John built a strong company culture, gaining regional and national attention and becoming one of the best places to work in the Midwest. John is married to his wife, Paige Pearson Meyer, and loves being a girl dad to Margot and Liv. John enjoys running, traveling and finding the next big idea.About Leadmore:Leadmore is a coaching and development firm founded by CEO John T. Meyer, dedicated to helping founders and executives scale both their businesses and personal growth. Through personalized 1-on-1 coaching and dynamic cohort calls, Leadmore supports leaders in identifying their goals and challenges them to step beyond their comfort zones. The company’s approach empowers leaders to unlock their full potential, driving both professional success and personal transformation.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Leadmore website athttps://www.leadmore.com/Check out Leadmore on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/leadmorecoaching/Check out John Meyer on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/johntmeyer/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 Your Business Finances: Goal Setting and Strategic Planning for Sustainable ProfitabilityIn the latest episode of our podcast, hosted by Josh Elledge, we delve into the crucial topic of financial management for businesses, featuring insights from **Debbie Deknight, CEO of Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping. This episode is essential for business owners, particularly in the trades and service industries, who often struggle with financial literacy and effective bookkeeping. We summarize the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode to help you achieve financial clarity and profitability in your business.Debbie Deknight, a seasoned professional with over 30 years of accounting experience and a mastery-level certification as a Profit First coach, shares her commitment to guiding businesses toward financial clarity and permanent profitability. She explains the Profit First methodology, which integrates profit into the core of business operations, ensuring that profitability is not just a goal but a fundamental part of the business model. Debbie addresses common misconceptions, such as the belief that more sales will solve financial problems, and emphasizes the importance of building profitability into pricing strategies from the outset.Debbie also highlights the challenges business owners face, particularly in financial literacy and strategic planning. She stresses the importance of setting specific goals, creating actionable plans, and delegating tasks to achieve business objectives. To support listeners, Debbie offers a free 15-minute "Ask Me Anything" session on her website, providing guidance on strategy, accounting, and profitability. The episode concludes with an invitation to subscribe for more inspiring content and to continue the journey as thoughtful entrepreneurs.About Debbie Deknight:Debbie, founder of Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping, brings over 30 years of accounting experience and expertise as a Profit First Master certified coach and Strategic Business Advisor. Debbie is passionate about educating, implementing, supporting, profit-driven strategies that lead to sustainable success. Debbie's personal experience with financial struggles has given her a deep understanding of the challenges business owners face and she is passionate about helping them overcome these challenges. Debbie's expertise and dedication to delivering systems that put profit at the forefront, gives entrepreneurs the structure they need to gain financial clarity, improve cash flow, and pay themselves first. Her proven methods and personalized strategies have turned struggling businesses into profitable ones.About Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping:Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping combines QuickBooks Online bookkeeping with Profit First coaching to help clients achieve powerful accountability and accelerate their profits. As certified Profit First Professionals, they align accounting practices with business goals, ensuring that bookkeeping becomes a key driver of profitability.The company offers expert guidance to business owners in areas such as cloud bookkeeping, profitability improvement, process optimization, cash planning, and budgeting. They specialize in supporting esports athletes and streamers, providing tailored solutions to meet their unique financial needs.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping website athttps://www.rightwayprofits.com/Check out Right Way Profits and Bookkeeping on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiedeknight/Check out Debbie Deknight on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/debbiedeknightDon’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 Evolution and Impact of Outdoor AdvertisingIn the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Kevin Bartanian, the founder and CEO of KEVANI, a premium outdoor advertising company. The conversation delved into the dynamic world of outdoor advertising, exploring its evolution, the types of businesses that benefit from it, and the innovative approaches that KEVANI brings to the table. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations for businesses looking to leverage outdoor advertising effectively.Outdoor advertising, also known as out-of-home (OOH) advertising, encompasses any advertising that reaches consumers while they are outside their homes. This includes billboards, street furniture, and transit advertising. Kevin Bartanian highlighted that outdoor advertising is one of the oldest forms of advertising, dating back to the first billboard in 1833. Despite its age, it remains the second fastest-growing advertising medium, trailing only digital advertising. Outdoor advertising is designed for mass audiences, making it suitable for a wide range of businesses, from local businesses in smaller markets to national advertisers in larger cities like Los Angeles and New York.KEVANI differentiates itself from traditional billboard companies by focusing on community engagement and innovative design. Kevin explained that many traditional outdoor advertising companies have lost touch with local communities due to consolidation. KEVANI, established in 2017, aims to fill this gap by engaging with local communities and curating visually appealing installations. Kevin shared several innovative examples of outdoor advertising, such as urbanization and digital technology, which allow brands to reach more people and create dynamic content changes. For businesses interested in exploring outdoor advertising, Kevin encourages visiting KEVANI's website to explore resources and learn more about the industry.About Kevin Bartanian:Kevin Bartanian is an Out of Home Advertising Expert and the Founder of KEVANI. Kevin is a fantastic speaker who is regularly featured by Forbes, The Drum, Digiday and more. After moving to America as a young immigrant Kevin has been able to build his media startup into one of the fattest growing companies in America according to The Inc. 5000 list (2023). He specializes in working on billboard advertising campaigns that bring art and value to the community they sit in. Their unique approach has attracted the attention of brands like Hermes, Gap, Louis Vuitton, Youtube, Dove, and more and they recently won an award for their work on Adidas’ women-centric I’m Possible campaign. They are currently partnered with several non-prots in the city of LA to help them reach underserved communities through free billboard spots. Some of Kevin's award winning work uses local artists to create hand-painted murals, which infuse art into advertising and create billboards that delight rather than detract from the communities they inhabit. Kevin currently serves as Vice Chairman of Glendale Arts, is a proud investor in local startups, and community art event organizer in Los Angeles. He also sits on the Innovations Committee at the Outdoor Advertising Association of America and brings nearly 20 years of experience in sales and marketing, P&L management, and executive leadership in the media and technology industries. Prior to founding KEVANI, Kevin played a critical role as Executive Vice President of Sales at StandardVision, driving the company to become one of the leading media development companies in North America. Kevin also applied his sales prowess at JCDecaux—the world’s largest outdoor advertising company.About KEVANI:KEVANI is an out-of-home (OOH) media company that specializes in promoting national and local brands through innovative outdoor advertising destinations. With a diverse inventory that includes iconic digital billboards and LED spectaculars, KEVANI offers a unique platform for brand and agency partners to engage and captivate their audience.The company was founded with the goal of bringing greater value to the OOH medium. From developing new advertising destinations to redefining how the medium is sold, KEVANI is committed to transforming the industry. This mission is at the core of their operations and is reflected in every aspect of their approach, guided by their strong Mission Statement.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out KEVANI website athttps://www.kevani.com/Check out KEVANI on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/kevani/Check out Kevin Bartanian on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/bartanianDon’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. 

Revolutionizing Customer Engagement with Personalized Video ContentIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a transformative discussion with Peter Lisoskie, the CEO of iProelio and founder of Relatable. The conversation centers around the innovative Relatable platform, which enables businesses to create personalized video content to enhance customer engagement and build meaningful relationships. This blog post will distill the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, offering a comprehensive guide for businesses looking to leverage personalized video content in their marketing strategies.Josh begins the episode by inviting listeners to explore new opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. Drawing from his extensive experience of speaking with over 2,000 leaders about their best business practices, Josh offers a free video resource that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or traditional sales tactics. As the conversation shifts to Peter Lisoskie, Josh expresses his enthusiasm for the Relatable platform, highlighting its focus on personalization and effective communication. He notes that the platform allows users to convey the right message to the right audience through video, which he finds particularly exciting.Peter explains the foundational concept behind Relatable, identifying significant socio-economic megatrends that have influenced consumer behavior, particularly the rise of "native digitals," who now represent 51% of the global population. He emphasizes that traditional sales methods, such as lead generation and cold calling, are becoming less effective as consumers increasingly prefer to engage on their own terms. Peter encourages listeners to reflect on their own purchasing behaviors, noting that most consumers conduct research online before making decisions. This shift has led to a demand for more personalized interactions, where consumers seek relationships with individuals rather than faceless companies or brands.About Peter Lisoskie:Part mad scientist, part futurist, and an unstoppable capitalist. With over 30 years in the high-tech and product development arena, he's held division leadership roles at powerhouse companies like Hewlett Packard, Verifone, and Nike, all while amassing an impressive collection of 18 patents. Peter doesn't just foresee the future; he brings innovations to life before you even realize you need them – a true visionary.Peter's pioneering spirit sets him apart. He's been a featured expert in Inc. and made appearances on major networks such as CNN, Fox Business, and MSNBC. His expertise includes interactive videos, artificial intelligence, and the fascinating world of neuroscience as applied to sales, marketing, and customer engagement.Currently, in his labs, Peter's cooked up a new category of software called interactive video relationships. This is in response to the shift away from the Attention Economy and lead generation to the shift toward the Relationship Economy and demand generation. In fact Gartner reported 72% of all B2B and B2C buyers never want to have an interaction with a sales person. Relatable creates a choose your own adventure interactive experience plus reconnecting if the viewer pauses or re-engaging with additional Relatable's based on viewers answers and actions.  That makes it personal and relevant. Today's digital world needs to go beyond likes and comments. People want to build relationships with brands. Most importantly people want to do business with people they like, know, and trust. That's relatable delivers on your phone in the palm of your hand.About iProelio:iProelio is a software company that develops interactive solutions that help people connect in a more real and relatable way. The company's products are powered by artificial intelligence and use interactive video, interactive audio, interactive life experiences to create engaging and immersive experiences.iProelio was founded in 2017 who are passionate about creating a better way for people to connect. The company's mission is to "be relatable" and its products are designed to help people build stronger relationships.For example, our interactive video platform allows people to create and share videos that are personalized for each viewer. Our interactive audio platform allows people to listen to audio content that is tailored to their interests.We believe that our solutions can help people to build stronger relationships, learn new things, and be more productive. We are committed to creating a world where people are more connected and engaged - not in a social way but in a real way that is relatable.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Proelio website athttps://home.relatable.pro/Check out Proelio on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/iproelioCheck out Peter Lisoskie on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/petelisoskieDon’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 Future of Sales: Harnessing AI for Autonomous Prospecting   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages with Nick Smith, CEO and founder of Sailes®, a leader in autonomous prospecting through AI-driven sales bots. The discussion explores how Sailes® is transforming the sales landscape by reshaping prospecting practices with AI technology. Key insights from the episode offer actionable advice on leveraging AI in sales strategies, emphasizing the potential of AI to enhance the sales process while maintaining a personalized touch. Nick Smith introduces Sailes® as a pioneering company offering autonomous prospecting solutions for enterprises. Their sales bots manage the entire prospecting process, from identifying potential companies and enriching data to locating decision-makers and generating personalized content. These bots maintain a unique personality that reflects the human they represent, ensuring a personalized interaction. Josh raises concerns about automated outreach saturation, but Nick highlights the importance of a targeted approach, focusing on genuine connections and reducing outreach volume while increasing effectiveness. As the conversation progresses, Josh and Nick discuss best practices for using Sailes® technology. Nick emphasizes the importance of understanding the market and analyzing customer interactions to optimize outreach efforts. The AI-driven sales bots automate successful strategies, allowing sales professionals to focus on high-value activities. Nick shares insights into the real-world impact of Sailes® technology, noting significant returns on investment and the intelligence gained from sales bots. The episode concludes with an invitation for listeners to explore Sailes® further, highlighting the potential of AI to drive business growth and enhance sales outcomes. About Nick Smith:   Nick Smith is the President, CEO, and Founder of Sailes – the company that created the first AI software to automate all prospecting. Nick founded Sailes in 2018 after an extensive career in sales leadership at CBS Corporation, iHeart Radio, and other enterprise sales organizations. Recognizing the power of AI to multiply human potential, and with the knowledge that most sales teams were taking a proportional, “sales enablement” approach to prospecting, Nick invented the Sailebot® to prospect on behalf of Sales Executives while accounting for their unique personalities. Nick’s accolades include an Eagle Scout award, a two-time CBS New York “One to Watch” award, and being named “40 Future Leaders of New York Politics” by City and State Magazine. Prior to founding Sailes, he co-hosted “Common Ground,” an audio program on WOR New York and iHeart Radio, dedicated to building bridges between business and labor organizations. Sailes, a venture-backed “Startup to Watch”, currently serves Fortune 1000 to 50 enterprises and is based in New York, NY and Kansas City, MO.   About Sailes®:   Sailes® is Sales, with AI: AI for Sales on Autopilot Unlock Human Potential with the Market-Leading AI-Native Sales Prospecting Solutions In a world where sales teams are constantly challenged to do more with less, Sailes® emerges as the game-changer that redefines how businesses approach sales prospecting. Built by salespeople, for salespeople, Sailes® harnesses the power of AI to elevate prospecting, delivering a seamless blend of efficiency, personalization, and innovation. AI-Native Sailebot®: The Future of Sales Prospecting At the heart of Sailes is Sailebot®, an AI-native technology designed to take prospecting off your plate, allowing your team to focus on what truly matters—building relationships and closing deals. Sailebot® autonomously manages everything from company research and data enrichment to outbound communications and objection handling, continuously learning and adapting to match the unique style of each sales executive. This means every interaction is not only efficient but also authentically tailored to your prospects. Digital Labor™: Supercharge Your Sales Efficiency Leveraging Digital Labor™ , Sailes® maximizes your team’s productivity by automating the menial and time-consuming tasks that often bog down sales efforts. From sourcing leads to responding to prospects, Sailebot® works tirelessly in the background, ensuring no opportunity is missed and freeing your team to engage only when it’s time to make meaningful connections. A New Era of Sales Excellence Sailes isn’t just about automating tasks; it’s about transforming the way sales teams operate. By complementing the skill and intuition of human salespeople with the precision and intelligence of AI, Sailes unlocks unprecedented potential, enabling your team to achieve new heights of success. Discover the future of sales with Sailes—where technology empowers your team to be more human, more effective, and more successful.   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 Sailes® website at https://sailes.com/ Check out Sailes® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/saile Check out Nick Smith on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/nixmith   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 Power of Personalization: Enhancing Buyer Engagement Through Conversational Design   In the latest episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Mary Kathryn Johnson, also known as MKJ, a founder, podcast host, and CEO. MKJ brings her expertise in helping entrepreneurs accelerate the buyer's journey through conversational and category design. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for entrepreneurs navigating the crowded digital marketplace. Let's dive into the key takeaways and actionable advice shared during the episode.   Mary Kathryn emphasizes that in today's saturated business environment, simply being louder or more visible is not enough. Entrepreneurs must find ways to stand out by being specific and personalized in their messaging. She highlights the importance of identifying your unique selling proposition, tailoring communication to address the specific needs of ideal customers, and ensuring consistent branding across all platforms. Additionally, MKJ stresses the importance of focusing on the buyer's journey rather than just the sales journey, which involves understanding the potential buyer's needs, preferences, and pain points.   MKJ’s expertise lies in helping entrepreneurs design conversations that facilitate trust and engagement. She discusses the role of interactive video as a powerful tool for enhancing engagement, introducing "Relatable," a platform for creating interactive video content. Mary Kathryn underscores that relationships are built over time and require trust, advocating for consistent communication, value-driven content, and personalized follow-up messages. By focusing on the buyer's journey, leveraging technology, and being authentic, entrepreneurs can create a more effective and engaging approach to business that fosters trust and drives success. For more information, explore Mary Kathryn’s work at callmemkj.com and engage with her on social media platforms. About Mary Johnson:   Mary Kathryn Johnson, known as MKJ, is a dynamic CEO and M.I.S.C.H.I.E.F. Maker (Mindset Impact Strategic Catalyst Helping Innovative Entrepreneurs FOCUS). With over 20 years of experience in online business and marketing, MKJ helps entrepreneurs, CEOs, and leadership teams gain clarity and focus on what makes their business unique, and how to communicate that difference to both internal and external customers. MKJ specializes in guiding businesses away from the crowded Attention Economy and outdated sales strategies like lead generation and sales funnels. Instead, she focuses on the Relationship Economy, demand generation, and optimizing the buyer's funnel. Her approach shortens the sales process, increases customer retention, and creates communities that actively promote businesses through Word of Mouth. MKJ is also the host of the M.I.S.C.H.I.E.F. Maker podcast, where she shares insights on helping businesses thrive by connecting with customers in more meaningful, lasting ways.   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 Mary Kathryn Johnson's website at https://www.callmemkj.com/ Check out Mary Kathryn Johnson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/callmemkj/   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.    

Creating a Thriving Workplace: The Power of Gratitude and Wellness Practices   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ania Halama, the founder and CEO of Xpansion Alchemy. The episode delves into the critical themes of workplace wellness, the transformative power of gratitude, and practical tools to boost employee satisfaction and productivity. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you foster a healthier and more productive work environment. Ania Halama introduces her company, Xpansion Alchemy, as a comprehensive wellness platform that operates in both business-to-business (B2B) and personal development spaces. The platform focuses on various aspects of well-being, including health, relationships, financial wellness, and overall productivity. Ania's mission is to help individuals and organizations feel better, which in turn leads to improved relationships and enhanced performance in the workplace. One of the central themes of the episode is the significance of gratitude in fostering a positive work environment. Ania shares a simple yet powerful practice: encouraging team members to express gratitude not only for what they appreciate but also for why they appreciate it. This practice can shift individuals' internal states, promoting a sense of well-being and connection among team members. Beyond gratitude, Ania discusses various tools and practices that can inspire a culture of appreciation and well-being in the workplace. Gratitude meditation and breathwork are becoming increasingly popular in corporate settings. These practices can help employees manage stress and improve focus. Ania also shares insights into trends in employee well-being, emphasizing the importance of addressing feelings of unworthiness through appreciation and self-work. Xpansion Alchemy offers a range of services, including monthly live classes and a back-office portal with resources organized by key wellness pillars. By prioritizing employee well-being and fostering a culture of appreciation, organizations can enhance their overall success and create a thriving workplace community. About Ania Halama:   Ania Halama is a world-renowned spiritual mentor, plant medicine facilitator, intuitive healer, and entrepreneur whose life journey is a testament to the power of self-discovery and manifestation. After breaking free from an unfulfilling corporate career, Ania embarked on a transformative global odyssey that opened her to ancient healing modalities and her true life's purpose. Today, Ania draws from a multitude of certifications - including EFT Practitioner, Breathwork Facilitator, Ho'oponopono Master, and Akashic Records Reader - to help thousands of heart-centered individuals align with their highest potential. Her keen intuitive abilities and mastery of the Law of Attraction allow her to guide clients in attracting health, love, wealth, and spiritual abundance. Recognized as a "Top Millennial Powerhouse" by Entrepreneur Magazine and "Top 10 Entrepreneur to Follow" by US Reporter, Ania's insights have been featured across major media outlets. She is a two-time bestselling author of "Rebel's Guide to Spirituality" and "Women Gone Wild the Wealth Edition", she is also the founder of Xpansion Alchemy. With an intuitive artist's eye for beauty and a passion for uplifting others on their journeys, Ania fuses her business savvy and metaphysical gifts. Her mission is to impact lives by empowering people to manifest their deepest desires through radical self-love, spiritual awakening, and entrepreneurship.   About Xpansion Alchemy:   Xpansion Alchemy is an interactive, holistic school for individuals looking to become the best versions of themselves. If you want to clear your mind, let go of limiting beliefs, and heal life’s traumas, we’ll provide you with just the right tools & techniques! On average, our students achieve higher levels of consciousness, happiness, drive, & personal freedom.   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 Xpansion Alchemy’s website at https://xpansionalchemy.com/ Check out Xpansion Alchemy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/92701077 Check out Ania Halama's website at https://aiahalama.com/ Check out Ania Halama on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/aniahalama/   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.    

Michele DeFilippo, founder of 1106 Design and a veteran in the book publishing industry, shares valuable insights on self-publishing. She discusses how platforms like Amazon are empowering authors, while emphasizing the continued importance of print books. Michele also delves into the challenges posed by AI in preserving authentic storytelling. Additionally, she highlights crucial marketing strategies for authors, stressing the need to understand their audience and the benefits of professional assistance.

Transforming Challenges into Opportunities: Insights on Modern Business Leadership   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Blair LaCorte, the Managing Director of LaCorte Ventures. The discussion delves into Blair's diverse career journey, the challenges that contemporary business leaders face, and the transformative role of technology, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), in shaping business operations. 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 navigate today's complex business landscape.   Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for connecting with partners, investors, and clients. He shares insights from his extensive experience, having spoken with over 2,000 leaders about their best business practices. Josh offers a free video class on his website, Up My Influence, where he outlines strategies for generating high-ticket sales appointments without relying on spam or ads. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships and invites potential guests to join his podcast. Blair LaCorte shares his unique career trajectory, which he humorously likens to that of Forrest Gump due to its diverse experiences. He recounts his upbringing in a family of entrepreneurs, with both parents running their own businesses. This early exposure to the challenges of entrepreneurship shaped Blair's understanding of business dynamics.   As the conversation shifts to contemporary business challenges, Blair identifies three primary concerns that executives are grappling with today: cultural shifts in the workplace, economic pressures, and product commoditization. He discusses the evolving nature of work culture, particularly in the context of remote work and the expectations of younger generations. Blair emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt to changing economic conditions and to find innovative solutions to manage costs and maintain efficiency. He also highlights the challenge of commoditization in products and services, stressing the importance of focusing on customer relationships. The discussion then turns to the impact of AI on business operations, where Blair shares insights from a recent AI conference he hosted. He introduces his coaching group, Mastermind Innovate, which brings together CEOs from various industries to share insights and support one another.   About Blair LaCorte:   Blair LaCorte is a dynamic business executive and transformational leader known for his curiosity, collaboration, and competitive spirit. With a diverse career spanning entertainment, aviation, AI, aerospace, and more, Blair has led companies through growth, restructuring, and IPOs, while mentoring and coaching teams to drive success. His passion for mentorship is reflected in his work with several coaching organizations, and his broad industry experience allows him to share best practices across sectors. Blair’s leadership style focuses on aligning teams, driving motivation, and achieving operational excellence. An active investor and advisor to over 100 companies and nonprofits, Blair has an impressive track record of delivering growth and investor returns. He holds an MBA from Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business and has completed executive coursework at Stanford. A space enthusiast and former NASA Innovator of the Year, Blair is an astronaut-in-training, set to fly with Virgin Galactic.   About LaCorte Ventures:   Lacorte Ventures is a family office engaged in seed investing and advisory services for early-stage venture and middle-market private companies. This includes executive mentorship, coaching and board participation focused on:   - select project-based B2B restructuring - fundraising - growth initiatives   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 LaCorte Ventures on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/lacorte-ventures/ Check out Blair LaCorte on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/blair-lacorte-68084/   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 Leadership, Burnout, and Purpose   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a profound conversation with Dennis Franczak, the founder and partner of Bright Matter Advisors. The discussion explores the complexities of leadership, personal growth, and the critical importance of understanding one's purpose in life and work. Dennis shares his personal journey through burnout as a CEO, the invaluable lessons he learned, and how he now dedicates his efforts to helping other executives navigate similar challenges. Dennis Franczak's story is a compelling narrative of resilience and transformation. As a CEO for nearly two decades, he faced severe burnout that had been building over the years. In 2022, recognizing the toll it had taken on him, he decided to take a six-month sabbatical to focus on self-healing and reflection. During this time, he disconnected from the demands of his professional life and engaged in deep introspection, ultimately realizing that he had lost touch with his identity as a leader and family man. Upon returning to the professional world, Dennis transitioned into a chairman role at his former ad agency and founded Bright Matter Advisors. His mission is to assist executives in understanding their true selves, their relationships with their careers, and what they want to be known for. A significant theme in Dennis's journey is the need for vulnerability among leaders. He discusses how executives often feel pressured to maintain a facade of strength and control, which can prevent them from seeking help when they need it. Dennis emphasizes that being vulnerable is not a sign of weakness; rather, it is a crucial step toward healing and growth. He encourages leaders to open up about their struggles and seek support before reaching a breaking point. At Bright Matter Advisors, Dennis works with high-performing professionals through one-on-one coaching, group sessions, and workshops, focusing on self-discovery, career alignment, and discovering their purpose and legacy.   About Dennis Franczak:   Dennis Franczak is a seasoned entrepreneur and executive advisor with a deep passion for meaningful impact and legacy. With over two decades of experience, Dennis has navigated the complex landscapes of advertising and business strategy, establishing himself as a thought leader in both fields. As the founder and former CEO of a highly successful advertising agency, he possesses extensive knowledge of the latest trends in advertising and brand strategy. Today, Dennis dedicates his expertise to CEO and executive advisory, helping leaders scale their businesses, optimize sales processes, and determine the right times to buy or sell their enterprises. Dennis's journey is marked by personal transformation. After experiencing burnout post-COVID and realizing the detrimental effects of maintaining a façade of the "perfect CEO," he took a six-month sabbatical to reconnect with his core values through therapy and self-reflection. This period of profound personal growth has equipped Dennis with unique insights into the challenges executives face, from loneliness and isolation to the struggle for authenticity in leadership. Driven by a desire to help others avoid the pitfalls he encountered, Dennis now emphasizes the importance of work-life balance, self-awareness, and leading with authenticity. His approach is a blend of practical business strategies and motivational guidance, aimed at fostering resilience and long-term success among executives and emerging leaders alike. He believes that true leadership is about creating a lasting, positive impact and leaving a meaningful legacy.   About Bright Matter Advisors:   Bright Matter Advisors is a team of former CEOs and executives who have been where you are. We've been in your shoes. We've had similar problems, challenges, failures, and successes. We remember the late hours, working on vacation, the stress that comes with our position, and of course making sure our people are taken care of. We've been stuck on a problem, whether it be growth, profitability, marketing, regulators, operational efficiency, sales. We could name dozens of more problems we've faced. But you get it. You've been there. We also remember the times when we wished we could talk to other people like us who've been where we are, who understand us, and get support from them. At times, being an executive can be isolating and lonely, and you have to put up brave front because everyone expects you to be perfect. Not here. Now you have a chance to work with people who you can share your struggles, get help, and find inspiration. Because we have been right where you are and we ended up achieving our goals. You can too. It's time to "level up" and enjoy your role knowing you have a group of colleagues who can relate to what you are going through, and help you unlock solutions that deliver previously unachievable results. The kind of results that change lives. The kind of results that turn leadership into legacy.   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 Bright Matter Advisors website at https://brightmatteradvisors.com/ Check out Bright Matter Advisors on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/bright-matter-advisors/ Check out Dennis Franczak on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dfranczak   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.