In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Entrepreneur, Speaker, Angel Investor & Chief Executive Officer of Big Picture Results, Jessica Zoraida. Jessica explained that Big Picture Results is a services-based business that aims to meet the unmet needs of small business owners. They provide a holistic approach to strategic goal setting, financial infrastructure, and business protection. Their services include CFO and COO support, HR compliance, and operational consulting. Jessica emphasized that while many businesses have accountants and bookkeepers, these professionals often work independently and may need to speak a different language. Big Picture Results aims to bridge that gap by providing comprehensive advisory services that help businesses interpret financial data and make informed decisions. Jessica stressed that it's never too early for startups to work with advisory services. This proactive approach sets them up for financial success and helps them understand the drivers of their business. During the initial sales call, she emphasized the importance of finding a match between the company and the client. The goal is to work with people who are aligned with the nature of their work and are open to making improvements and striving for excellence. Jessica clarified that their role is not to take away jobs but to improve the client's function and productivity. Their motto is to enable business owners to do more in less time, allowing them to focus on the business. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Jessica Zoraida and her role as CEO of Big Picture Results Explanation of the services offered by Big Picture Results (accounting, tax, and advisory services) Importance of advisory services for businesses and when to consider them Benefits of fractional or outsourced advisory services "Land and expand" approach of Big Picture Results in providing services Matching clients with the company's values and goals during the initial sales call Understanding client goals and identifying areas for improvement Conducting conversations in a language and pace comfortable for the client Division of tasks based on priority and timeline About Jessica Zoraida: Jessica Zoraida, CEO of Big Picture Results, is a seasoned Latina entrepreneur with 25+ years of navigating corporate, nonprofit, and small business sectors. Leading a skilled team, Jessica specializes in empowering marginalized populations, especially women, by simplifying financial, HR, leadership, and marketing issues. Her expertise extends to employment, mentorship, and community service, fostering clarity and success. Despite a challenging start in the Bronx, Jessica, a first-generation college graduate, carved a remarkable career in corporate banking. Over 15 years as an entrepreneur, she became a subject matter expert and investor in majority-owned companies. Beyond her professional achievements, Jessica, an energetic and spirited individual, enjoys sharing strategies for success and a fulfilling life. As an avid traveler, adventurer, and advocate for work-life balance, she emphasizes holistic well-being, including healthy cooking, Tabata workouts, and quality sleep. About Big Picture Results: Big Picture Results Inc. is an Accounting and Tax Company focused on enhancing their clients' business profitability. Their commitment to streamlined processes, systems, and strategic approaches enables them to create substantial value for their clients. With a team boasting decades of expertise, they offer professional, proactive, and cost-effective services comparable to a full-time hire. Unlike traditional accounting firms, BPR doesn't just focus on year-end tax preparation; they tailor their services to meet specific industry and management needs, providing real-time insights to business owners. This empowers entrepreneurs to grasp their financials better and drive higher profits. Beyond accounting, BPR assists in restructuring and optimizing operations, from strategy development to standard operating procedures. Taking charge of these essential aspects enables business owners to focus on growing their organizations without getting bogged down by administrative tasks. Tweetable Moments: 12:09 - "Your wiggles and nervousness, that's going to catch up with you. Just marry that with a big dose of courage." 16:55 - "You can bootstrap your business but we all know capital is the lifeblood of any organization and the more well capitalized you are you're going to have a runway to really allow yourself to take off." 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 Big Picture Results website at https://www.bigpicresults.com/ Check out Big Picture Results on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BigPictureResults/ Check out Big Picture Results on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/big-picture-results/ Check out Jessica Zoraida on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicazoraida/ 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & CEO  of Strategic Thinking Institute, Rich Horwath. Rich Horwath's Strategic Thinking Institute is a beacon for senior leaders who aspire to think, plan, and act strategically daily. The institute's primary focus is to help these leaders establish a cohesive strategic direction. Rich emphasizes the importance of a strategy scaffold, which comprises three elements: purpose (mission, vision, values), business model, and plan (goals, objectives, strategies). Rich provided valuable insights on how leaders can determine whether they are on track with their strategy. He stressed the importance of understanding one's position in the market and tailoring strategies accordingly. He drew a clear distinction between market leaders, who aim to defend their position and attract new customers, and challengers, who focus on converting new users and capitalizing on the weaknesses of more prominent competitors. Rich also discussed his approach to strategic coaching and his newest book, "Strategic: The Skill to Set Direction, Create Advantage, and Achieve Executive Excellence." He emphasized the importance of customizing strategic tools for each team or business based on their specific needs and goals. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Rich Horwath and the Strategic Thinking Institute Importance of cohesive strategic direction Elements of a strategy scaffold: purpose, business model, and plan Identifying if leaders are off track or on track with their strategy Different strategies for market leaders and challengers Organizational resistance and the need for employee buy-in Concept of organizational flow and breaking down silos Key message for leaders: setting strategic direction Customizing strategic tools for specific needs and goals Importance of ongoing strategic development and individual coaching Rich's books: "Strategy Man" and "Strategic" About Rich Horwath: Rich Horwath, CEO of the Strategic Thinking Institute, is a renowned strategy facilitator, advisor, and coach. As a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, his latest book, "STRATEGIC," delves into setting direction, creating advantage, and achieving executive excellence. Over two decades, he's aided over a quarter million leaders in honing their strategic thinking. A former Chief Strategy Officer and strategy professor, Rich has graced ABC, NBC, CBS, and FOX TV. Having crafted 700+ proprietary resources on strategic thinking, he's consulted for significant entities like ESPN, Google, and FedEx. His expertise has earned him acclaim, with Chief Executive Magazine dubbing him the "world's foremost expert on strategic thinking." Featured in Fast Company, Forbes, and the Harvard Business Review, Rich Horwath's vision is to teach the art of being strategic globally. About Strategic Thinking Institute: The Strategic Thinking Institute, led by President and CEO Rich Horwath, is committed to enhancing strategic thinking skills across managerial levels. Their focus is on fostering profit growth, productivity increases, and the establishment of competitive advantages. With a global reach, STI collaborates with top-tier companies in the U.S., Europe, and the Asia-Pacific region to cultivate strategic thinking, formulate plans, and set direction. STI offers a comprehensive range of services, including strategy consulting, training, keynote speeches, and counsel. The institute has empowered over 50,000 managers worldwide to bolster their strategic thinking capabilities. Through their strategic initiatives, STI plays a pivotal role in shaping organizational success on an international scale. Tweetable Moments: 08:55 - "The number one role of a leader is setting strategic direction. If you want to set good direction as a leader, all you have to remember are three A's: acumen, allocation, and action." 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  Strategic Thinking Institute website at https://www.strategyskills.com/ Check out  Strategic Thinking Institute on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/strategic-thinking-institute/ Check out Rich Horwath on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richhorwath/ Check out Rich Horwath on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/richhorwathceo/ Check out Rich Horwath on Twitter at https://twitter.com/RichHorwath 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder, Strategist & Creative Director  of Sealevel Agency, Allison Conway. Allison emphasized the importance of creating bold and human brands, even in the financial services and supply chain industries.  Allison explained that many businesses in these industries hesitate to step outside the "buttoned-up" image they believe they should portray.  However, she argues that by telling stories and humanizing their brand, they can connect with their customers on a deeper level. Allison points out that all business is human-to-human, and consumers now expect brands to reflect this in their branding. B2B marketing, in particular, is highly emotional, as clients often share their business challenges and anxieties.  When asked about resources or recommendations for those interested in making changes and diving into their communities, Alison suggested following her on LinkedIn, where she regularly posts valuable content.  Additionally, she offers a guide called "The Guinness Treatment" on her website, which provides insights on giving your business the same level of brand management as Guinness, a company known for its strong community involvement. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of creating bold and human brands in traditionally "boring" industries Telling stories and humanizing brands to connect with customers on a deeper level Example of Guinness Storehouse's storytelling and community connection Focus on providing emotional safety in financial services industry Understanding the emotional needs of customers and tailoring branding accordingly All business is human-to-human, even in B2B marketing Importance of understanding and being a part of the community you serve Immersing yourself in the community to better understand their needs About Allison Conway: A seasoned adventurer and accomplished author, Allison Conway boasts a rich tapestry of global experiences, having explored over 40 countries. Her travel highlights range from savoring Jordan's culinary delights to immersing herself in Egypt's historical treasures, Austria's picturesque landscapes, and Vietnam's vibrant urban jungle.  A self-published author, Conway achieved a remarkable feat with her book, soaring to #1 bestseller status on Amazon in the competitive Business & Money and Self-Help categories. Beyond her literary accomplishments, Conway walked the transformative Camino de Santiago, a 500-mile pilgrimage in Spain, and briefly contributed to a float plane operation in Alaska.  Her diverse experiences transcend conventional market research, offering invaluable insights into brand management and marketing strategy. Conway emphasizes the art of storytelling and authentic connections, navigating the delicate balance between ego and authenticity.  Unafraid to challenge norms since her early school days, Conway's unconventional approach underscores her effectiveness in marketing and brand management. About Sealevel Agency: Sealevel Agency® specializes in brand management, design, and marketing strategy, anchored in the belief that, at its core, business is a human endeavor. The agency's approach centers on storytelling, considering every business as a narrative shaped by human interactions.  Sealevel Agency builds brands that exude trustworthiness, kindness, transparency, and value through consistent and authentic storytelling. Their philosophy views brand management as the art of cultivating trust and captivation. Beyond narrative, Sealevel Agency offers a suite of services, including design, marketing, and copywriting, to develop a comprehensive and compelling brand personality.  For businesses seeking immediate assistance, the agency provides Sealevel Strategy Mapping Sessions, a 90-minute deep dive to align strategies with goals and furnish clients with a personalized 90-day Action Plan—a strategic playbook to guide and elevate their brand. Tweetable Moments: 03:22 - "Yes, you do have compliance and all of those things, but you can also tell stories and humanize your brand, humanize your industry." 10:32', "It's a lot harder to sell to a group of people that you are not personally a part of." 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 Sealevel Agency® website at https://sealevelagency.com/ Check out Sealevel Agency® on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sealevelagency/ Check out Allison Conway on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/allisoneconway/ 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President & Co-Founder of Clickx, Solomon Thimothy. Solomon, who recently launched his book "0 to 10k Scale Playbook," shared some invaluable insights on lead generation strategies and the importance of inbound marketing. Solomon emphasized the importance of a hybrid approach to lead generation. He pointed out that relying solely on outbound strategies like cold prospecting and email outreach can be challenging, as only a small percentage of businesses actively seek these services. Instead, he suggested focusing on inbound strategies that create a system running 24/7 without the need for constant prospecting. This can be achieved through master classes, webinars, free training, or even offering a free version of their platform. Solomon also touched on the concept of perfectionism that many entrepreneurs grapple with. He shared that his book aims to help individuals looking to start their agency business transition from their current jobs. He emphasized that agency businesses do not require an office location or certifications, making them accessible to anyone. The book focuses on affordability and provides a roadmap to creating a six-figure income right from the start. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Clickx and its role in helping marketing agencies scale their businesses Discussion on lead generation strategies and the importance of inbound marketing Mention of Solomon Thimothy's book, "0 to 10k Scale Playbook," aimed at helping agencies scale to $10,000 a month and beyond Importance of a hybrid approach in lead generation, combining outbound and inbound strategies Focus on inbound strategies that create a system or engine for consistent lead generation Debate on starting with a tripwire or making it easy for prospects to spend time with the agency Discussion on perfectionism and the need to launch products without delay Accessibility of agency businesses, not requiring an office location or certifications Tips on improving webinars, whether to focus on selling or booking calls Importance of compelling content and clear goals in webinars, whether to sell or book calls About Solomon Thimothy: Solomon Thimothy is a seasoned consultant with over a decade of experience dedicated to assisting businesses to thrive within hyper-competitive landscapes. Serving as the CEO and Co-Founder of Clickx, Thimothy collaborates with both emerging and established agency owners, fostering the development of scalable business models. Clickx's comprehensive platform equips agency owners with the essential tools and resources required to cultivate profitable digital marketing agencies, whether aiming for a $10k milestone or surpassing $50k MRR. As the CEO of OneIMS, Thimothy actively seeks avenues to expand and share his expertise with like-minded businesses. Committed to empowering small and medium-sized enterprises, he provides scalable marketing solutions to enhance online reach and significantly boost return on investment. Thimothy's overarching philosophy revolves around "ALL-IN" success in digital marketing, emphasizing the pivotal role of a firm's dedication to investing time and resources for optimal results. Clients leveraging his expertise and determination to grow can achieve limitless success in the digital landscape. About Clickx: Clickx is a versatile software designed to facilitate your agency's seamless initiation, growth, and scaling. It's tailored for businesses of all sizes and industries, and the platform focuses on essential success metrics: traffic, leads, and customers. Offering adaptability, Clickx provides a White Label option, enabling agencies to leverage case studies, generate client reports 24/7, and utilize the Clickx Academy for team training. The platform ensures a personalized and prioritized support system for Agency Partners, optimizing customer experiences and addressing concerns throughout their journey. With Clickx, agencies gain a comprehensive toolset to monitor crucial metrics, access educational resources, and enhance overall client satisfaction, making it an invaluable asset for those seeking efficiency and success in the competitive business landscape. Tweetable Moments: 17:14 - "I really believe that if you can figure out how to run a business that is the greatest personal development that you could ever have." 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 Clickx website at https://www.clickx.io/ Check out Clickx on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/clickx/ Check out Clickx on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/clickxio/ Check out Clickx on Twitter at https://twitter.com/clickxio/ Check out Clickx on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/clickxio/ Check out Solomon Thimothy on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/solomonthimothy/ Check out Solomon Thimothy on Twitter at https://twitter.com/sthimothy Check out Solomon Thimothy website at https://www.thimothy.com/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO & Founder of Disctopia, Patrick Hill. Patrick Hill, the visionary behind Disctopia, explained that the platform offers content owners full transparency of their data and the opportunity to monetize it. Disctopia primarily focuses on audio and video content, providing insights into audience engagement. They distinguish between regular plays and highly engaged plays, which they term "true plays." This data allows content owners to charge different rates for different levels of engagement, thereby increasing their revenue potential. When asked about the implementation of Disctopia in school systems, Patrick revealed that they have already signed up a couple of schools for their program. They provide mobile podcast kits for students and teachers to set up podcast studios on campus, typically placed in the library or media center for easy access. Every student gets a Dystopia account to upload their content. Patrick acknowledged that implementing in schools can be challenging due to long billing cycles, but they work with schools off-cycle to make it easier. Key Points from the Episode: Disctopia: a platform for content owners to monetize their data Focus on audio and video content Insights on audience engagement, distinguishing between regular plays and "true plays" Example of client, Jet Magazine, using Disctopia 's engagementmodel Partnership with SEMrush for keyword optimization Implementation of Disctopia in school systems Mobile podcast kits for students and teachers Pricing for independent creators, SMBs, and larger applications Integration with Microsoft Teams and SharePoint About Patrick Hill: Patrick Hill is the visionary Founder and CEO of Disctopia, a pioneering music streaming and podcast hosting platform. Motivated by the unjust treatment of artists in the industry, Patrick established Disctopia to revolutionize the streaming market. His platform pays artists the highest per stream, addressing the financial struggles many creators face today. Under Patrick's leadership, Disctopia has swiftly grown to host over 4 million podcasts, music from 10,000 indie artists, and a library of 20,000 audiobooks. Patrick's expertise spans over 20 years, making him a stalwart in global data solutions and technology design. His extensive experience in API development, integration, and system design ensures Disctopia operates seamlessly, both in user experience and backend efficiency. Furthermore, his role as a Certified Microsoft Infrastructure Developer guarantees Disctopia's presence on the cloud is not just a hosting solution but a robust, scalable, and secure platform. A forward-thinking entrepreneur, Patrick's creative genius and technical acumen blend seamlessly, positioning Disctopia as a trendsetter in the digital content engagement realm. His dedication to empowering artists and reshaping the digital landscape makes him a leader of exceptional influence and impact. About Disctopia: Disctopia is a unique platform tailored exclusively for creative individuals, recognizing the artist within everyone. Regardless of background or expertise, Disctopia embraces the philosophy that everyone possesses artistic capabilities. This innovative platform empowers individuals to express their creativity by offering a space to create, upload, and share their artistic endeavors effortlessly. Unlike conventional streaming services, Disctopia's core mission is to amplify diverse voices and talents, fostering a community where every individual's artistic expression is celebrated and heard. By providing a user-friendly interface and seamless uploading capabilities, Disctopia democratizes the creative process, ensuring that artists of all kinds, from musicians and podcasters to writers and visual artists, can showcase their work to a global audience. Disctopia's inclusive approach redefines the traditional boundaries of artistry, encouraging individuals to explore their creative potential and connect with like-minded enthusiasts. In a world where creativity knows no bounds, Disctopia serves as a dynamic platform, uniting people through their passion for artistic expression and enabling them to share their talents with the world. Tweetable Moments: 15:03 - "Go to where they are. Make it insanely easy for them, and your consumption rate is going to go through the roof." 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 Disctopia website at https://disctopia.com/ Check out Disctopia on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/disctopia/ Check out Disctopia on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/disctopia/ Check out Disctopia on Twitter at https://twitter.com/Disctopia?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor Check out Disctopia on Facebook at http://facebook.com/playdisctopia Check out Patrick Hill on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/acmceo/ 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Impactiviti/ClarityFuel, Steve Woodruff. Steve Woodruff's work primarily focuses on communication skills in the corporate world, including sales, marketing, training, and leadership development. He emphasizes that effective communication is essential in business and that many people struggle with providing too much information or being vague and confusing. According to Steve, the two main problems in communication are information overload and vagueness. Overwhelming recipients with excessive information can shut down their attention, whether it's through lengthy emails or rambling presentations. On the other hand, being vague and using jargon or technical terms can also lead to confusion. Many people, especially those new to marketing, may struggle with communication because it's not their primary skill set. Steve agrees and emphasizes that less is more when it comes to communication. He reveals that our brains process 11 million bits of information per second, but we can only focus on 60 bits simultaneously. Therefore, the competition for attention is fierce, and getting to the point quickly is crucial. Steve emphasizes the significance of having a clear and concise message that will stick in the minds of others. He refers to this as a "memory dart," a precise and memorable description that can easily be referred to. He suggests moving away from the term "elevator pitch" as it implies a forced and salesy approach. Instead, he advocates for using a word picture that captures the essence of what you offer, such as comparing oneself to the "Mercedes of podcasters for entrepreneurs." Key Points from the Episode: Importance of clear communication in various forms Problems of information overload and vagueness in communication Less is more in communication, getting to the point quickly Applying principles of clear communication in workshops and keynotes Creating a memorable and concise message ("memory dart") Moving away from the term "elevator pitch" Using word pictures to capture the essence of what you offer Wrapping up offerings into something tight and memorable Importance of clarity for others to remember and refer to you About Steve Woodruff: Steve Woodruff, often called the "King of Clarity," boasts an impressive 37-year sales, marketing, consulting, and entrepreneurship career. This extensive experience uniquely positions him to impart the principles of clear and effective communication to others. Steve has a rich corporate training and workshop facilitation background, catering to a broad spectrum of companies, from startups to major players in the pharmaceutical industry. As the Founder and President of Impactiviti, Steve is sometimes dubbed the "Mayor of pharmaceutical sales training." His consultancy work spans various life sciences companies, where he advises on training solutions, including technology platforms and global implementations. His expertise is designing and executing diverse learning initiatives, such as workshops, pre-launch training, online modules, assessments, and webcasts. Notably, Steve is the author of the influential business book, "Clarity Wins" (2018), and he has recently released "The Point" (October 2023). His workshops on communication, collaboration, vendor/project management, and leadership networking, all rooted in clarity principles, are highly sought after by clients in the Life Sciences sector. Beyond his professional life, Steve is a devoted family man, a proud father of five sons, and has been happily married for 40 years. He resides in the historic town of Franklin, TN, and holds a degree from Vanderbilt University, harkening back to the era when computers relied on punch cards. About Impactiviti/ClarityFuel: Impactiviti/ClarityFuel embarked on its mission over 14 years ago, driven by the singular goal of enhancing the efficacy of collaboration between vendors and training clients. Today, it is a trusted partner to numerous top-tier Life Sciences companies, encompassing pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and medical devices. Its core function is to assist these organizations in precisely defining their training requirements and identifying the ideal vendor partners. With an extensive network spanning over 60 vendors/providers specializing in diverse training solutions, Impactiviti/ClarityFuel has established enduring partnerships. It goes beyond mere networking; it comprehends clients' unique needs and leverages its robust network to connect them with experts capable of fulfilling those needs. As a testament to its value, it also imparts crucial collaboration skills to client personnel, equipping them with the tools required to excel in their training roles. 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 Impactiviti/ClarityFuel website at https://impactiviti.com/ Check out Impactiviti/ClarityFuel on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/atak-interactive/ Check out Steve Woodruff’s New book: The Point  at https://www.amazon.com/Point-How-Win-Clarity-Fueled-Communications/dp/1636982387/ Check out Steve Woodruff on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/swoodruff/ Check out Steve Woodruff on Twitter at https://www.twitter.com/swoodruff Check out Steve Woodruff website at https://www.stevewoodruff.com Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

Josh Elledge, founder of Up My Influence, discusses sales and marketing, building relationships and participating in whisper networks, being genuinely curious in client meetings, setting boundaries with demanding clients, and the power of generosity in scaling a business and building relationships.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the  Success Coach, Executive Coach & Motivational Keynote Speaker of Daniel Gomez Enterprises, Daniel Gomez. Daniel Gomez shared his personal experience of becoming complacent in his success. He highlighted a common pitfall many business leaders and owners succumb to - the trap of satisfaction with their current level of success. This often leads to a halt in efforts to grow their businesses. Daniel emphasized the importance of maintaining a growth mindset and continuously creating new revenue streams. Daniel stressed the importance of focusing not just on revenue numbers, but also on the percentage of compensation to the sales team and the business's overall financial health. He shared an example of a business that lost a million dollars every year but turned it around to make a million dollars in profit within a year and three months. Daniel suggests that leaders start by self-assessing themselves monthly to interrupt stagnancy in a business's culture. They need to ask themselves if they are giving 110% and identify areas for improvement. He shared his personal experience of realizing that taking shortcuts in his workouts reflected in his business performance and how he made the necessary changes. Key Points from the Episode: Business stagnancy and the trap of complacency Importance of maintaining a growth mindset Success story of a business increasing revenue with guidance Focusing on revenue numbers, compensation to sales team, and financial health Self-assessment and identifying areas for improvement Importance of self-reflection and self-awareness About Daniel Gomez: Daniel Gomez, a distinguished Award-Winning Keynote Speaker and Business Coach, has built an impressive reputation worldwide. His passion lies in empowering entrepreneurs and businesses to achieve their potential through his dynamic training programs. As an International Best-Selling Author, Gomez imparts invaluable wisdom through his book, "The Makings of a Millionaire Mind," guiding readers on the path to financial success with the right mindset and heart. Gomez's impactful presence is not limited to the pages of his book; he takes the stage as a captivating speaker and corporate trainer, inspiring audiences. His high-energy approach and innate ability to unlock untapped potential have made him a highly sought-after professional. Organizations, including the U.S. Air Force, have benefited from his expertise, earning him recognition with multiple awards, including the prestigious "Best of" accolades in 2019, 2020, and 2021. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Gomez, alongside his wife Mari Gomez, is deeply committed to giving back to the community. Together, they run the nonprofit organization "The Mari Strong Foundation," providing support to women whose lives have been impacted by breast cancer. Daniel Gomez's collaborative and compassionate spirit continues to make a lasting impact, transforming businesses and individuals alike. About Daniel Gomez Interprises: Daniel Gomez Enterprises, led by the accomplished Daniel Gomez, is a beacon of expertise and empowerment in the business world. As the President and Founder, Gomez's enterprise is synonymous with transformative coaching, training, and strategic guidance for businesses and entrepreneurs globally. With a passion for elevating others, Gomez's enterprise specializes in unlocking the untapped potential within individuals and organizations. His innovative training and coaching programs have empowered clients to achieve remarkable success in both personal and professional spheres. Gomez's acclaimed book, "You Were Born to Fly," is a testament to his commitment to instilling high-performance habits and confidence in his audience. Renowned for his high-energy approach, Gomez is a sought-after speaker and trainer, catering to top organizations such as the U.S. Air Force. Recognized with the esteemed "Best of 2019" award, Daniel Gomez Enterprises sets the standard for confidence coaching and business strategies. Moreover, the enterprise's philanthropic efforts, exemplified through "The Mari Strong Foundation," showcase a deep commitment to giving back to the community. Daniel Gomez Enterprises is a paragon of professionalism and impactful collaboration, making it a leader in business transformation. Tweetable Moments: 07:56 - "The way I do something is the way I do everything.” 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 Daniel Gomez Interprises website at https://danielgomezspeaker.com/ Check out Daniel Gomez on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-gomez-3345876/ Check out Daniel Gomez on Instagram at www.instagram.com/danielgomezinspires Check out Daniel Gomez on Twitter at https://twitter.com/DanielInspires Check out Daniel Gomez on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/danielgomezinspires 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the  Copywriter, Content Expert & Founder of Magic Words Copywriting, Kelsey Formost. Kelsey, with her years of experience working with a diverse range of clients, from small business owners to multi-million dollar companies in the tech and entertainment industries, emphasized the pivotal role of copywriting in connecting with customers and building a brand. Copywriting, as Kelsey describes, is a blend of art and science. It's not just about crafting compelling sentences; it's about understanding the neuroscience behind what makes a message resonate with its intended audience. Interestingly, Kelsey's background as an actress and screenwriter has significantly influenced her approach to copywriting. Her experience in the entertainment industry, including appearances in popular shows like Modern Family and New Girl, has given her a unique perspective on what makes content captivating and engaging. Kelsey helps businesses build their brand voice, create conversion copy for their home and about pages, and develop effective call-to-actions and funnels of awareness. She also optimizes email marketing strategies to ensure readers feel excited and engaged when they see a brand's name in their inbox. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of copywriting in businesses Kelsey Foremost's background as an actress and screenwriter Connection between vulnerability and effective copywriting Use of AI in copywriting Kelsey's experience working with various clients Copywriting as a combination of art and science Importance of storytelling in copywriting Addressing pain points of customers in copywriting Kelsey's services: 1-to-1 copywriting, one-to-many programs, membership About Kelsey Formost: Kelsey Formost is a renowned copywriting expert, marketing educator, and mental health advocate, celebrated for guiding entrepreneurs in crafting compelling, non-salesy content. Featured in prominent publications such as Business Insider, AdAge, and Glamour, she's a sought-after public speaker at major marketing events like Hubspot’s "Inbound" and SXSW. Recognized as a 'Rising Star' on Talking Influence's "Influencer Top 50" list, Kelsey empowers businesses to surpass six figures through her accessible teaching style. Beyond financial success, her core mission is to demystify online communication, instilling empowerment and inspiration in individuals when expressing their business narratives—ultimately fostering financial growth and personal confidence and connection within the digital realm. About Magic Words Copywriting: Magic Words Copywriting, founded by Kelsey Formost, stands as a testament to her seasoned expertise in copywriting, brand strategy, and marketing. With over 6 years of experience in B2B and B2C marketing, Kelsey's "emotion-first" approach has left an indelible mark on multi-million dollar companies spanning the tech and entertainment sectors. As the former Director of Content and Brand at a prominent Influencer Marketing platform, Kelsey's innovative writing and content strategies have catalyzed explosive revenue, substantial growth, and lucrative partnerships, elevating brand awareness in consumer and enterprise markets. Beyond her corporate roles, Kelsey extends her influence through Magic Words Copywriting, emphasizing content that inspires empathy and significantly impacts business outcomes. Her dedication to this mission is further reflected in her podcast, exploring the intersection of mental health and entrepreneurship. Tweetable Moments: 06:38 - "That is the connective tissue - you have to be willing to be vulnerable to empathize with people so that you can communicate your value to those people." 13:50 - "There are so many ways that you can optimize email to make your readers feel really excited when they see your name in their inbox when they see the company name in their inbox." 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 Magic Words Copywriting website at https://kelseyformost.com/ Check out Magic Words Copywriting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/kelseyformost/ Check out Kelsey Formost  on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/kelsey.writes/ Check out Kelsey Formost on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelseyformost/ Check out Kelsey Formost on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/kelseyformostwrites/ Check out Kelsey Formost on Twitter at https://twitter.com/KelseyFormost 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 of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the  CEO,  Co-Founder, Business Leader, Entrepreneur & Business Strategist of Anideos, Sherry Khan. Sherry's story begins in Pakistan, where he grew up before moving to the UK to study business management. Despite his academic pursuits, Sherry's passion has always been art and animation. This passion led him to establish Anideos in 2020, a company that creates visually appealing websites and animations. Their client list is equally impressive, featuring prestigious names such as Toyota, Colgate, and the US Navy SEALs. Sherry's mission is to contribute to the digital realm of art and leave a timeless piece of art that can be remembered. Sherry also explained that the cost of animated explainer videos depends on the style and complexity of the animation. Anideos offers a range of styles, including 2D explainer animation, 3D explainer animation, and motion graphics. The style choice is tailored to the client's product and target audience. For instance, essential 2D explainer videos are suitable for clients like Craft Times, while realistic 3D animation is preferred for clients in the rocket industry. Sherry emphasized the importance of animation in capturing people's attention and conveying messages effectively. He believes that beautifully crafted artistic pieces, whether it's animation or a visually appealing website, have a greater impact on viewers. Sherry draws a parallel between children's natural inclination towards drawing nature elements like the sun, trees, and mountains, and how nature plays a significant role in our perception of art. According to Sherry, the goal of animation is to engage viewers and compel them to take action, whether it's making a purchase, visiting a website, or learning about a product. Animation plays a crucial role in selling products and building brand loyalty. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Sherry Khan, CEO and co-founder of Anideos Background of Sherri Kahn and her passion for art and animation Growth and success of Anideos as an animation and video company Impressive client list, including Toyota, Colgate, and the US Navy SEALs Budgeting and pricing for Anideos' services, including different animation styles Importance of animation in capturing attention and conveying messages effectively Natural inspiration from nature in creating animations Role of animation in selling products and building brand loyalty Recommendations for engaging with Anideos through their website and YouTube channel About Sherry Khan: Sherry Khan is a dynamic entrepreneur and the founder/CEO of Anideos, a creative agency specializing in illustrations and animations. With a strong background in the US market, Sherry embarked on his entrepreneurial journey, driven by his passion for creative arts. Starting as a business analyst, he ventured into entrepreneurship, demonstrating a willingness to take risks that proved crucial for his growth. Sherry's expertise extends beyond his company, as he consults various B2B and B2C enterprises, assisting them in refining their business strategies and fostering growth. He is dedicated to sharing his knowledge with aspiring entrepreneurs and inspiring them to pursue their dreams. Sherry's enthusiasm and innovative spirit propel Anideos to unparalleled success as he aims to elevate the company to new heights in the creative industry. About Anideos: Anideos is a pioneering video production agency operating from crucial hubs in New York, Dubai, and Karachi. Renowned for its innovative and out-of-the-box solutions, the company boasts an impressive track record of delivering over 100 projects with an outstanding 99% client satisfaction rate. Anideos thrives on embracing new challenges, catering to globally esteemed brands, and enabling them to shine in the market. Their meticulous, process-driven approach ensures seamless execution, leading to enhanced brand recognition. Specializing in high-quality animations and visuals, Anideos is instrumental in shaping brands with dynamic personalities. With a strategic presence in multiple international locations, Anideos continues to set industry standards, guiding businesses toward creative excellence and market success. Tweetable Moments: 09:55 - "I'm really looking forward to creating a timeless piece of art and playing a really important role in the digital realm of animation." 13:57 - "Nature is my personal inspiration because of which I think creating those engaging animations and making sure that there's a flow has an actual flow." 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 Anideos website at https://www.anideos.com/ Check out Anideos on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/anideos/ Check out Anideos on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/anideos.animatedvideos/ Check out Anideos on Twitter at https://twitter.com/anideoscom Check out Anideos on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/anideos.animations/ Check out Sherry Khan on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherry-khan-/ 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.