The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

The Relationship Revolution: How to Elevate Your Business Through Meaningful ConnectionsIn the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Kevin Thompson, founder of the Maximum Response Marketing, Impact & Legacy Collective, and host of the "Million Dollar Relationships" podcast. The discussion highlights the pivotal role that high-level relationships play in the success of entrepreneurs and business leaders. Kevin shares his experiences and insights on how meaningful connections can lead to significant impacts in both business and philanthropic efforts. This blog post will break down the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners in building valuable relationships.Josh begins the episode by emphasizing the importance of building connections with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to understand where their best business comes from. Kevin Thompson expresses his excitement about being on the podcast and shares his passion for facilitating meaningful relationships and strategic partnerships. He describes his work as incredibly rewarding, as it allows him to impact millions of lives through the connections he helps create. Kevin reflects on the success of his podcast, which has been running for nearly three years, and how it has become one of the most fulfilling endeavors of his 29-year entrepreneurial journey.The conversation touches on the concept of a "whisper network," where business gets done behind the scenes through genuine connections rather than flashy networking events. Josh and Kevin agree that many significant deals occur in informal settings, such as golf courses or mixers, where individuals can connect without the pressure of immediate business expectations. As the conversation wraps up, Kevin invites listeners to engage with him through his podcast, the "Million Dollar Relationships." He encourages them to check out the nearly 300 episodes available and to reach out if they resonate with the content. By following these insights and actionable tips, entrepreneurs and business leaders can cultivate high-level relationships that drive success and create lasting, positive change.About Kevin Thompson:After selling $16.1 Million of his own products and services solely through strategic partnership, Kevin Thompson intimately understands the value of right relationships.Hosting the Million Dollar Relationships podcast is the most rewarding he has done in his 29 years as an entrepreneur because it's exponentially expanded his ability to serve.Kevin facilitates strategic partnerships that have impacted millions of people's lives and led to millions of dollars in revenue being created.About Maximum Response Marketing:Maximum Response Marketing, founded by Kevin Thompson, specializes in helping businesses generate measurable results through strategic direct response marketing. With expertise in email campaigns, sales funnels, and high-conversion copywriting, Kevin focuses on building authentic relationships and creating win-win collaborations that drive revenue and customer loyalty. Maximum Response Marketing empowers businesses to maximize their impact and achieve sustainable growth.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 Maximum Response Marketing website at https://maximum-response.com/Check out Kevin Thompson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-thompson-11725511/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.

A Deep Dive into HR Consulting and OutsourcingIn this episode, we spoke with Jim Cichanski, founder and CEO of Flex HR, about the evolving landscape of HR consulting and outsourcing. Jim shared his extensive experience in the industry, highlighting how Flex HR has grown over the past 25 years to become the largest HR consulting and outsourcing firm in the Southeast. Flex HR provides a comprehensive range of services, including employee onboarding, payroll management, and compliance oversight, helping businesses navigate the complexities of HR as they scale. Jim emphasized that professional HR support becomes essential as startups grow, enabling leaders to focus on core operations while ensuring compliance and employee satisfaction.Jim also discussed the increasing impact of technology and AI in the HR space. While automation can streamline processes like payroll and benefits management, he stressed the importance of maintaining a human touch in HR interactions to build trust and engagement. Flex HR serves companies with 50 to 500 employees, offering tailored solutions for both small and larger organizations. With a team of 50 consultants across the country, Flex HR is committed to mentoring and supporting HR professionals, ensuring businesses develop strong HR practices and maintain compliance with evolving regulations.As the episode concludes, Jim highlights the value of trust and transparency in leadership, underscoring the importance of clear communication and consistent follow-through. Flex HR also offers webinars, training sessions, and other resources to empower HR professionals and business leaders. For those interested in enhancing their HR functions and fostering a positive work environment, Flex HR provides the expertise and tools needed to ensure long-term success.About Jim Cichanski:Jim, the Founder and CHRO for Flex HR has 50+ years’ experience in human resources, holding senior level positions in companies that were privately held, pre-IPO, foreign owned, joint venture, Fortune 50 and one labeled the “fastest growing F1000 in America.”  He has a solid background in high tech, manufacturing, services and management.His background in human resources includes organizational process evaluation and improvement, labor laws, integration of businesses, cost reduction, organizational development, and all functional areas of human resources.  These include but are not limited to Benefits, Compensation, Staffing, Diversity, ERISA, DOL Compliance, Immigration, Learning & Development, Stock Administration, Executive Compensation, Employee Relations, and over 350 Mergers & Acquisitions.  Jim’s experience includes operational HR management knowledge globally in 32 countries and has transitioned companies from 30 to 67,000 employees worldwide.  Companies he has worked for include Unisys, Novell, Premiere Technologies and PaySys International. Jim is a certified Six Sigma Green Belt.Jim also spent 27 years in the Army National Guard achieving the rank of Colonel, was inducted into the Officer Candidate School Hall of Fame, and received numerous awards including the Legion of Merit.  Jim holds a BA in Applied Behavioral Sciences, is a graduate of the Department of Defense Equal Opportunity Institute, has served on the board of HealthSource of Georgia, recently served on the Board of Directors for HomeStretch and was an inside board member of 17 companies.  He is an active member of many HR professional organizations.Flex HR has been named one of the “Top 25 Most Promising HR Outsourcing Service Providers” in Outsourcing Gazette Magazine in October 2015. In September 2008, 2012 and 2013 INC Magazine recognized Flex HR as an Inc 5000 “Fastest GrowingAbout Flex HR:Flex HR is co-located in the Atlanta, GA metro area as well as the Chicago, IL metro area and is a full service, Human Resources firm, supporting any and all HR management functions. We customize plans for each client, letting you choose only the services you need as your business evolves. Our comprehensive offering includes high-level strategic consulting and planning, HR back office administration, regulatory compliance, organizational development, benefit solutions, mergers, recruiting, training, payroll, employee websites, ethics hotline and administration, risk management, and human capital consulting and outsourcing, to name a few. Flex HR delivers intelligent HR expertise allowing companies to concentrate on their internal resources to grow their core business.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 Flex HR website at https://flexhr.com/Check out Flex HR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/flex-hr/Check out Jim Cichanski on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-cichanski-3253b/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.

Securing Life-Saving Technology: The Importance of Cybersecurity in Medical DevicesIn this episode, host Josh speaks with Christian Espinosa, CEO of Blue Goat Cyber, about the growing importance of cybersecurity in medical devices. From surgical robots to implantable devices like pacemakers, Christian highlights how today's advanced healthcare technology is increasingly vulnerable to cyber threats. He shares real-world examples—like the disabling of former Vice President Dick Cheney’s defibrillator wireless feature—to illustrate how life-threatening these vulnerabilities can be if not addressed properly.Christian explains how Blue Goat Cyber partners with both startups and established medtech companies to integrate cybersecurity into the early stages of device development. This proactive approach helps manufacturers comply with regulatory standards and protect patients from potential cyberattacks. Christian's personal experience with a health scare deepened his commitment to securing medical devices and gives him a unique, patient-first perspective on the work his company does.To support clients, Blue Goat Cyber offers white papers, podcasts, and webinars covering FDA regulations and device security best practices. Christian encourages medtech innovators to engage early and book discovery calls to assess their cybersecurity needs. As the healthcare industry continues to evolve, he stresses that cybersecurity is not just about compliance—it's essential for safeguarding lives and building trust in the devices patients depend on.About Christian Espinosa:Christian Espinosa is the founder and CEO of Blue Goat Cyber, a leading authority in cybersecurity and a recognized expert in medical device security. He is driving significant advancements that prioritize patient safety and data integrity, embodying a proactive and innovative approach to his work. As the author of "The Smartest Person in the Room" and "The In-Between: Life in the Micro," Christian boldly shares his evolution from competitive to compassionate leadership.An avid adventurer, he thrives on extreme sports, heavy metal music, and spicy foods. His impressive credentials as a certified skydiver, PADI divemaster, and Ironman Triathlete demonstrate his unwavering commitment to personal growth and transformative leadership.About Blue Goat Cyber:Blue Goat Cyber provides full-service medical device cybersecurity support, addressing challenges throughout the premarket and postmarket phases. From managing Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) to conducting threat modeling, penetration testing, and Static Application Security Testing (SAST), we integrate cybersecurity into every stage of your product lifecycle. Our solutions ensure compliance with FDA guidelines, IEC 62304, ISO 14971, and EU MDR/IVDR regulations while safeguarding patient safety and device reliability.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 Blue Goat Cyber website at https://bluegoatcyber.com//Check out Blue Goat Cyber on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/blue-goat-cyber/Check out Christian Espinosa on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianespinosa/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 a Brand in a Competitive MarketIn this episode, we chat with Gregory Vetter, a former insurance salesman turned successful entrepreneur and author of Undressed: The Unfiltered Story of My Failed American Dream and How It Led to Success. Gregory shares his inspiring journey from feeling unfulfilled in his insurance job to creating Tessemae's, a thriving salad dressing brand. His story highlights the importance of persistence, customer feedback, and embracing challenges, showing how one pivotal idea can transform a career.Gregory’s entrepreneurial spark was ignited when someone stole his mother’s homemade salad dressing, prompting him to bottle and sell it. After securing a meeting with a local grocery store and using a hands-on sampling strategy, Tessemae's took off, selling 660 bottles in just five days. His approach, which focused on health-conscious ingredients and direct customer engagement, helped him stand out in a competitive market.Today, Gregory operates several businesses, including a produce and manufacturing company and a brand accelerator, while mentoring aspiring entrepreneurs. His journey exemplifies the power of perseverance, creative marketing, and learning from both successes and setbacks. Gregory’s story is a powerful reminder that with resilience and an open mind, any entrepreneur can turn their passion into a thriving business.About Gregory Vetter:Gregory Vetter is a well established innovator and disruptor in the clean food movement. The oldest of the Vetter brothers, he had the brilliant idea of launching Tessemae’s after being inspired by his mother’s wildly popular homemade dressing recipe. What Gregory knew, and the American consumer base was soon to discover, was that the idea would soon resonate widely and give rise to an entirely new clean food category. Gregory and his broader family, primarily brothers, Matt and Brian, cultivated the business and in a mere 5 years translated their vision into becoming the #1 organic salad dressing brand in the refrigerated space. The emergence of Tessemae’s paved the way for clean manufacturing on a mass scale by virtue of inventing the only gum-free dressing bottling process. Ultimately, that manufacturing process led to the creation of the “fresh condiment” category and, similarly, the first Whole30 approved bottled dressings and condiments in the nation. With the wind clearly at their back, Gregory and his brothers launched Alta Fresh Food Company. Alta Fresh Food has since pioneered a better way to get great tasting salads to the masses through their innovative “master kitting” process and breakthrough R & R&D team. After their triumph as “Sam’s Club Supplier of the Year”, resulting from their “Master Kitting” process, Alta was propelled to the forefront of the fresh food solutions industry. More recently, Gregory elected to take his lessons learned from his sustained success in the food industry and launched “Home Grown Brand Accelerator”. Home Grown was developed with a singular purpose in mind, “to empower the next generation of brands by making the “playbook” available to whomever had the desire to build the next great American brand.” Winner of Inc. Magazines Entrepreneur of the Year award, Inc Magazines 35 under 35, EY Entrepreneur of the year finalist, TED talk speaker, Nielsen Design Impact Award for Packaging, And Sam's Club Supplier of the Year, Gregory spends his time with his wife and 4 children onApply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Gregory Vetter website at https://www.gregoryvetter.com/Check out Gregory Vetter on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregvetter/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 episode, Josh sits down with Collin Graves, the visionary founder of North Labs, to delve into the transformative power of data in the business landscape. Collin shares his expertise on how organizations can harness data to significantly enhance productivity, efficiency, and profitability. He sheds light on the often daunting challenges of data integration, especially when dealing with a multitude of SaaS platforms, and how these challenges can impede business growth. Collin also discusses the exciting potential of generative AI in streamlining operations and minimizing software clutter, offering a glimpse into the future of data management.The conversation takes a deeper turn as Collin reflects on the emotional journey many clients experience when they realize the necessity for improved data management. He outlines the practical steps North Labs employs to elevate data maturity within organizations, ensuring they are well-equipped to tackle their data challenges. Collin provides valuable insights into effectively addressing these challenges, emphasizing the importance of a strategic approach to data integration and management. Throughout the discussion, he highlights the comprehensive services offered by North Labs, designed to empower businesses to unlock the full potential of their data and drive sustainable growth.

The Art of Connection: Transform Your Networking Approach for Greater SuccessIn this episode, we sit down with Devin Sizemore, connector, consultant, speaker, and author of the best-selling book Connection Expansion. Devin shares how one meaningful relationship can drastically shift the trajectory of a business or personal journey. He emphasizes that many people are just one connection away from unlocking transformative opportunities and encourages a mindset shift around how we approach networking.Devin discusses common mistakes founders and professionals make—like becoming overly protective of their time—which can lead to a stagnant network. Instead, he suggests staying open and curious, reigniting existing relationships, and making intentional asks that go beyond searching for direct clients. He also explains how writing a book can serve as a powerful marketing tool and credibility builder, especially when paired with strategic networking efforts.To support entrepreneurs and professionals, Devin offers services like book writing through his Million Dollar Author program, strategic networking groups, and consulting. He closes the conversation by encouraging listeners to reconnect with their networks and explore new relationships. To learn more, visit devonsizemore.com.About Devin Sizemore:Driven by a passion for meaningful experiences, both personally and professionally, I have spent my career building and growing businesses that align with my values. From launching my first marketing agency right out of college to creating innovative consulting practices and a cat cafe, my journey has been defined by a commitment to "adding value" and making a positive impact. As a firm believer in the power of connections, I am dedicated to helping others succeed through the art of building relationships. The next chapter of his life is focused on fostering a community where one million connections can create lasting, transformative change.About Devin Sizemore Consulting:Devin Sizemore Consulting helps business owners navigate the unforeseen consequences of business success. By assessing and optimizing the 8 core pillars of life and business—Personal, Product, Pipeline, People, Process, Profit, Posterity, and Pack—Devin empowers entrepreneurs to build sustainable, balanced businesses that align with their personal values and long-term goals.As the latest evolution in a proven lineage of consulting brands—including Your Referral Partner, Powerhouse Consulting, 4505 Consulting, and Live Cageless—Devin Sizemore Consulting draws on years of experience, strategic insight, and a powerful network to guide business leaders through their next level of growth with clarity and confidence.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 Devin Sizemore Consulting website at https://devinsizemore.com/Check out Devin Sizemore Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/devinsizemoreconsulting/Check out Devin Sizemore on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dpsizemore/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 Importance of Communication for Purpose-Driven OrganizationsIn this episode, our host sits down with Sarah Wood, founder of Sarah Wood Communication, a boutique agency dedicated to helping purpose-driven organizations share their stories. With a background in nonprofit communications, Sarah has spent over a decade helping organizations in health, science, and social responsibility communicate their mission more effectively. She emphasizes that while these organizations often have powerful stories to tell, they frequently overlook the importance of clear, strategic communication in connecting with their audiences.Sarah explains that effective communication goes beyond social media and newsletters—it’s about building meaningful relationships through consistent messaging and storytelling. Whether through one-on-one conversations with major donors or broader outreach campaigns, communication must be approached holistically. Sarah also supports clients through fractional communication services, offering senior-level strategy without the full-time cost, helping resource-limited organizations enhance their impact.As the conversation wraps up, Sarah encourages leaders to evaluate whether their current communication efforts are achieving results. She stresses that especially during challenging times, communication should not be deprioritized. Instead, investing in storytelling and strategic outreach can help organizations stay connected to their communities, build trust, and achieve long-term success.About Sarah Wood:Sarah Wood is the Founder and Chief Communication Consultant at Sarah Wood Communication, LLC. A lifelong voracious reader, Sarah has been helping individuals and organizations identify and effectively share the stories of their good work for her entire professional career. And she still loves a good story. In addition to helping people and organizations illuminate their good work, Sarah is a solo mother by choice to two amazing humans.About Sarah Wood Communication:Sarah Wood Communication is a boutique communication agency dedicated to helping illuminate your work and share your stories with targeted audiences strategically, consistently, and in a way that reaches and resonates with those audiences.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 Sarah Wood Communication website at https://sarahwoodcommunication.com/Check out Sarah Wood on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-wood-682513a1/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.

How the Internet's Bandwidth Revolution is Shaping the Future of AI with Dan CarusoIn a recent episode of our podcast, we had the privilege of hosting Dan Caruso, the managing director of Caruso Ventures and the author of the newly released book "Bandwidth: The Untold Story of Ambition, Deception, and the Innovation that Shaped the Internet Age and Com Boom." The conversation, facilitated by our host Josh, delved into Dan's extensive background in technology and entrepreneurship, his insights on the evolution of the internet, and his current investment strategies. This blog post aims to break down the key themes and insights from the episode, providing valuable, actionable advice for entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts.Dan Caruso's Background and VenturesDan Caruso's career is a testament to the transformative power of technology and entrepreneurship. As the managing director of Caruso Ventures, a single-family office focused on direct investments in technology companies, particularly in Colorado, Dan has been at the forefront of building the bandwidth that underpins modern internet usage. His journey from graduating college to selling his company, Zillow Group, in 2020, is marked by significant contributions to the internet era, including the development of fiber networks and internet infrastructure.Dan's career highlights the importance of resilience and innovation in entrepreneurship. His ability to navigate the highs and lows of the tech industry serves as an inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs. The infrastructure built during the bandwidth boom continues to support modern technology, emphasizing the long-term impact of strategic investments in tech.The Evolution of Bandwidth and Its ImpactJosh prompted Dan to discuss the early days of bandwidth and the investment frenzy that characterized that period. Contrary to the notion of resistance to investment, Dan explained that the demand for bandwidth was so evident that everyone wanted to invest in it. This overwhelming interest led to a situation where investments outpaced actual needs, culminating in the dot-com bubble.The bandwidth boom and bust illustrate the cyclical nature of tech investments. Understanding these cycles can help investors make informed decisions and avoid the pitfalls of overinvestment. Despite the bust, the infrastructure built during this period remains crucial today, highlighting the importance of a long-term vision in tech investments.The Future of BandwidthAs the conversation shifted to the future, Dan discussed the implications of AI and quantum computing on bandwidth requirements. He asserted that while the core of existing networks may suffice, the expansion of fiber to the "edge" will be necessary to accommodate the increasing integration of AI into everyday applications. This transition will require significant investment in infrastructure to ensure that the networks can handle the data demands of AI technologies.The expansion of fiber networks to the edge is crucial for supporting the data demands of emerging technologies like AI and quantum computing. AI and quantum computing represent significant investment opportunities, akin to the early days of the internet. Staying informed about these technologies can provide a competitive edge.Predictions for 2025 and the Future of TechnologyJosh asked Dan for his predictions for 2025, to which Dan responded with a bold assertion: he believes that year will be marked by the government finally disclosing information about extraterrestrial life. This prediction reflects the unpredictable nature of technological and societal advancements, emphasizing the importance of remaining open to new possibilities.The future is unpredictable, and being open to new possibilities can help entrepreneurs and investors navigate the ever-changing landscape of technology. Keeping abreast of emerging trends and technologies is crucial for making informed decisions and staying ahead of the curve.A Business Nonfiction NarrativeDan's book, "Bandwidth," is described as a business nonfiction narrative that reads like a novel, filled with exciting stories from the bandwidth boom and bust. The book captures the intertwined tales of entrepreneurs, investors, and the challenges they faced during this transformative period in history. Dan aims to provide readers with both entertainment and valuable lessons applicable to building successful businesses.The book's narrative style makes it accessible and engaging for readers, regardless of their technical background. The stories and lessons from the bandwidth boom and bust provide valuable insights for entrepreneurs and investors.Opportunities for Engagement and InvestmentAs the episode wrapped up, Dan invited listeners to explore opportunities to engage with him and his portfolio companies. He mentioned that while his investments are primarily focused in Colorado, they span various sectors, including deep tech, software, and fintech. Dan encouraged interested parties to reach out and explore potential collaborations or investments.Engaging with experienced investors and entrepreneurs can provide valuable opportunities for collaboration and growth. Diversifying investments across various sectors can help mitigate risks and capitalize on emerging opportunities.ConclusionThis episode serves as an inspiring reminder of the power of entrepreneurship and innovation in shaping a better future. Dan Caruso's experiences and insights provide valuable lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders alike. The conversation highlights the importance of recognizing the broader impact of one's work and the potential to drive positive change through business. As technology continues to evolve, the role of entrepreneurs in navigating this landscape will be more critical than ever.Entrepreneurs play a crucial role in driving positive change and creating economic opportunities. Staying informed and adaptable is key to navigating the fast-paced world of technology. Strategic investments in infrastructure and emerging technologies can have a lasting impact.For more insights and to connect with Dan Caruso, visit his website at dancaruso.com. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur, an investor, or a tech enthusiast, Dan's experiences and insights offer valuable guidance for navigating the ever-evolving landscape of technology and business.About Caruso Ventures:Caruso Ventures invests in tech-enabled companies led by highly effective CEOs. We use our deep scale up experience to help the next generation of tech leaders achieve their visions. Caruso Ventures sets up Special Purpose Vehicles (“SPV”) for our investments, which allows for additional investors to participate in select investments. Our typical initial investment is $500k to $1 million at the early revenue ramp stage, with the propensity to follow on. We are industry agnostic and we will lead or follow. Our investment focus is almost exclusively Colorado.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 Caruso Ventures website at https://dan-caruso.com/caruso-ventures/Check out Caruso Ventures on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-caruso-7b6b6/Check out Dan Caruso on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielpcaruso/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 LinkedIn for Independent Consultant SuccessIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh Elledge engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Liz Steblay, the founder and chief advocate of the Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA). Liz, a seasoned independent consultant and author of "Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth," shares her journey and offers invaluable insights into the world of independent consulting. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, providing detailed, actionable advice for aspiring and established solopreneurs.Liz Steblay’s journey into independent consulting began two decades ago, long before the term "solopreneur" became mainstream. She successfully built her first business into a multimillion-dollar venture, which led to numerous inquiries from others interested in self-employment. This inspired her to establish PICA, an organization dedicated to supporting individuals in launching and growing their own businesses, including consulting, executive coaching, and financial planning. PICA serves as an educational community, offering a wealth of resources such as templates, articles, and best practices. Liz emphasizes the importance of community support, especially during challenging times.Throughout the episode, Liz reiterates the importance of providing value in all interactions. She shares practical strategies for using LinkedIn effectively, such as treating a LinkedIn profile as a "storefront window" and focusing on building genuine relationships. Liz’s book, "Succeeding as a Solopreneur," offers a wealth of knowledge for those looking to thrive in independent consulting. As the episode wraps up, Liz invites listeners to explore her book and offers free 15-minute "Ask Me Anything" sessions. This episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" offers valuable insights for independent consultants and solopreneurs, emphasizing the importance of community, effective networking, and a client-focused approach to business development.About Liz Steblay:Liz Steblay is the Founder and Chief Advocate of the Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA) and author of "SUCCEEDING AS A SOLOPRENEUR: Six Keys to Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth,". She's also the CEO of ProKo Agency, Inc, an international agency for independent consultants.Liz truly enjoys helping people launch and grow the solo career of their self-employment. An engaging guest, she readily shares tips on what to do, what to avoid, and how to conquer FUD (fear, uncertainty, and doubt) - all part of the six keys to taking the leap, winning clients, and building weatlh.About Professional Independent Consultants of America (PICA):The Professional Independent Consultants of America is an educational organization and nationwide community that helps professionals launch, run, and grow their own solopreneur business. Visit the website at www.PICAnetwork.org or sign up for the newsletter to gain access to on-demand classes, live workshops, coaching, and more.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 Professional Independent Consultants of America website at https://www.picanetwork.org/pica/default.aspCheck out Professional Independent Consultants of America on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/picanetworkCheck out Liz Steblay on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/independentconsultingDon’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.

Innovation Unleashed: Transforming Mindsets and Businesses for SuccessIn the latest podcast episode, host Josh engages with Patrick Noel Daly, a seasoned innovator and consultant, to explore the concept of innovation as a mindset. Patrick shares his extensive experience in the consulting sphere, offering valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders. The discussion highlights the critical role of innovation in business and how it can be cultivated as a mindset, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and creativity.Patrick's journey into innovation began at a young age with entrepreneurial ventures like a lemonade stand, which sparked his curiosity and drive to solve problems. He believes innovation is fundamentally a mindset, involving a focus on improvement and creativity. One key takeaway is the balance between generating innovative ideas and ensuring their commercial viability. Patrick stresses the importance of linking ideas to business outcomes and evaluating their market demand before investing resources. He illustrates this with the development of Simclr, a mattress topper for the medical industry, which successfully transitioned into consumer markets with Dream Care.Josh and Patrick also discuss the value of innovation in business, particularly in B2B solutions, and the importance of external perspectives. Patrick notes that smaller companies can leverage their innovative solutions by partnering with larger organizations. He advocates for creating an environment where ideas can flourish within organizations, encouraging collaboration and employee engagement. As a consultant, Patrick offers his expertise to help businesses navigate the innovation process, emphasizing the importance of external insights to drive innovation. The episode concludes with a call to embrace curiosity, seek new ideas, and adopt an innovative mindset to unlock growth opportunities.About Patrick Noel Daly:Patrick Noel Daly (PND) is a seasoned entrepreneur who has founded his own startups in IT, SaaS and medical. Patrick founded Icon Global Innovations to launch his own products and he also founded PND Global Consulng to help companies, businesses, and entrepreneurs to succeed. He was a winner on the Late Late Enterprise Show in Ireland in 1998 with a special school bag that he designed to help kids carry heavy loads of books. Patrick Noel was Bank of Ireland/Shell Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Ireland in 1999. Patrick now licenses his inventions established products to licensees and resellers in medical care and healthcare, having invented and developed these medical innovations to provide products that are “good for people”, which he says was his primary reason for inventing the products. He wants to scale that product range in the USA and to make DreamCair and CUSHEE, the consumer versions available in the sleep/wellness market in the USA and wider. Patrick writes his won patents and he manages his own Intellectual Property portfolio. Patrick is originally from Cork, Ireland and has travelled the world on business. Since moving to the western side of the world, Patrick has helped mentor entrepreneurs, including volunteer/pro bono mentor roles with iCorps Naonal Science Foundaon USA. See hps://icorpsnortheasthub.org/ Patrick was invited to mentor by Princeton University, NJ, USA. He has wrien “Just Start Up-A Guide to Building Startups” and is passionate about inspiring young and aspiring entrepreneurs.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 Patrick Noel Daly website athttps://www.patricknoeldaly.com/Check out Patrick Noel Daly on LinkedIn athttps://ca.linkedin.com/in/patricknoeldalyDon’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.