The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

From Vintage Tractors to Real-Time Payments with Steffen Vollert of VoltOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Steffen Vollert, Co-Founder and CEO of Volt, a European fintech innovator specializing in real-time global bank payments. Steffen shares how his experience restoring vintage Porsche diesel tractors shaped his leadership philosophy and business mindset—emphasizing quality, attention to detail, and customer relationships. The conversation explores how Volt is disrupting the payments industry with white-label solutions and regulatory advantages, and offers actionable insights for merchants seeking faster, more secure, and scalable payment infrastructure.Why the Fundamentals Still Matter in a High-Tech WorldSteffen’s passion for restoring vintage tractors taught him the value of process, precision, and patience—principles he now applies to building scalable payment systems at Volt. Whether it’s diagnosing a mechanical issue or resolving a payment integration, both require discipline and customer-first thinking. Volt’s model embraces those same fundamentals by delivering seamless, real-time bank-to-bank payments across borders, while empowering merchants to take control of their payment experience.Volt sets itself apart by leveraging open banking regulations like PSD2 to initiate instant bank transfers and reduce reliance on costly card networks. Rather than becoming another all-in-one payment giant, Volt operates as the infrastructure behind white-labeled solutions for retailers, PSPs, airlines, and even crypto platforms—making their offerings faster and more secure without sacrificing control or branding.If your business is expanding across Europe or struggling with slow settlement times, Volt's technology and merchant-first approach might be exactly what you need.About Steffen VollertSteffen Vollert is the Co-Founder and CEO of Volt. With a background in engineering and entrepreneurship, Steffen brings a unique blend of technical expertise and business strategy to the world of fintech. His leadership is grounded in a passion for craftsmanship—both mechanical and digital.About VoltVolt is a leading real-time payments platform headquartered in Europe. The company enables instant, secure bank-to-bank transfers through open banking infrastructure, helping businesses across sectors improve checkout performance, reduce fees, and scale globally. Volt powers white-labeled payment experiences for e-commerce, travel, crypto, and enterprise platforms.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Volt WebsiteSteffen Vollert on LinkedInVintage Porsche Tractor ProjectsEpisode Highlights:How restoring vintage tractors influenced Steffen’s leadership in fintechWhat makes Volt different from Stripe, PayPal, and other PSPsWhy speed, attention to detail, and customer discovery matter in paymentsThe benefits of white-label, real-time bank paymentsActionable tips for merchants evaluating new payment partnersConclusionFrom hands-on craftsmanship to cutting-edge fintech, Steffen Vollert shows that the principles of excellence, process, and customer care are timeless. Volt is bridging the gap between innovation and reliability, offering a smarter approach to payments for global merchants. If you're looking to modernize your payments stack without sacrificing control or speed, it's worth exploring what Volt brings to the table.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Breaking Through the Growth Ceiling with James Graham of SCALIFY OSOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with James Graham, Founder and CEO of SCALIFY OS, about how entrepreneurs can overcome growth plateaus and transition from founder-driven hustle to scalable, operational excellence. James works with businesses earning between $1M and $20M in revenue, helping them build the systems, leadership structures, and strategies needed to grow sustainably—and profitably.From Hustle to Scale: Building a Business That Runs Without YouJames Graham understands that passion and grit can take a founder far, but they’re not enough to grow a company beyond its early success. Many entrepreneurs hit a “growth ceiling” where time, energy, and resources no longer stretch far enough—and chaos creeps in. That’s where SCALIFY OS comes in.James helps founders step out of the weeds by installing operational systems, documenting sales processes, and establishing structured leadership meetings. His strategies are highly customized, focusing on each business's unique challenges and opportunities—rather than offering one-size-fits-all solutions. He also incorporates AI into his coaching model with “Jamie,” a proprietary AI business coach that supports clients with 24/7 operational guidance.If you’re stuck working nights and weekends, can’t delegate effectively, or feel your business is running you—this episode delivers a clear roadmap for scaling up without burning out.About James GrahamJames Graham is the Founder and CEO of SCALIFY OS, where he helps $1M–$20M businesses break through their growth ceilings by implementing operational systems, leadership development, and strategic coaching. With a background in business architecture and digital innovation, James is passionate about helping founders become CEOs.About SCALIFY OSSCALIFY OS is an operational strategy and coaching platform built for established entrepreneurs ready to scale. The company offers custom assessments, leadership systems, documented processes, and AI-enhanced coaching to help businesses grow sustainably—without relying solely on the founder’s hustle.Links Mentioned in this Episode:SCALIFY OS WebsiteJames Graham on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:What the “growth ceiling” looks like for $1M–$20M businessesWhy operational systems—not hustle—are key to sustainable scaleThe importance of structured leadership meetings and clear accountabilityHow to document and delegate founder-led salesThe role of AI in modern business coaching with SCALIFY OS’s “Jamie”ConclusionScaling a business isn’t just about working harder—it’s about thinking smarter. As James Graham shares, true growth requires systematizing success, empowering leadership, and stepping back from the day-to-day. With the right structure and support, you can break through the ceiling and build a business that thrives without you at the center of everything.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Authenticity in the Age of AI: How Owen Garitty of FPW Media Keeps Marketing HumanOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Owen Garitty, Founder and CEO of FPW Media, a creative marketing agency redefining brand storytelling in an AI-saturated world. Owen shares how FPW blends advanced technology with genuine human connection, offering a fresh perspective for business owners, marketers, and creatives navigating the challenges of modern branding.Finding Balance: Why Analog Matters in a Digital WorldOwen Garitty kicks off the conversation by sharing a surprising source of creative clarity—gardening. His hands-in-the-soil approach is more than just a hobby; it's a metaphor for the power of stepping back from digital overload. In a world dominated by automation, Owen believes it’s essential for creatives to disconnect and reconnect with themselves.This philosophy directly influences how FPW Media operates. From high-end film production to augmented reality and experiential marketing, FPW integrates cutting-edge tools without sacrificing authenticity. The company keeps 95% of its production in-house, allowing for tighter quality control, stronger collaboration, and more emotionally resonant outcomes.While AI plays a growing role in the marketing world, Owen emphasizes using it with intention. Rather than relying on generic AI tools, FPW trains custom models tailored to each client’s brand voice and data. The result? More precise insights and storytelling that feels human, not manufactured.About Owen GarittyOwen Garitty is the Founder and CEO of FPW Media. Known for his deep understanding of storytelling, Owen blends old-school creative instincts with next-gen marketing tools to help brands stay real in a world that often feels artificially curated.About FPW MediaFPW Media is a full-spectrum creative agency offering services in branding, content production, AR/VR, experiential marketing, and more. With a massive in-house production facility and a focus on authenticity, FPW helps brands create powerful, emotionally resonant content that breaks through the noise.Links Mentioned in this Episode:FPW Media WebsiteOwen Garitty on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Why disconnecting from digital tools can fuel better creative strategyHow FPW Media uses AI with precision, not as a generic shortcutThe dangers of synthetic content and the "boomerang effect"Actionable ways to build brand authenticity in the age of automationHow FPW’s in-house team and creative space set them apartConclusionIn today’s fast-moving, AI-driven marketing world, staying authentic is more than a nice-to-have—it’s a competitive advantage. As Owen Garitty of FPW Media makes clear, brands that invest in real stories, real people, and real connections will stand out in a sea of synthetic content. If you want your marketing to resonate—not just reach—now’s the time to humanize your strategy.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Unlocking the Power of Legal Analytics with Alon Shwartz of Trellis LawOn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Alon Shwartz, Co-Founder and COO of Trellis Law, a cutting-edge legal tech platform reshaping how attorneys navigate state trial court litigation. Alon shares how Trellis leverages data analytics and AI to streamline legal research, improve strategy, and increase efficiency for legal professionals. If you’re in the legal field and want to work smarter—not harder—this episode is packed with insight.Bringing Legal Intelligence to State Trial CourtsAlon Shwartz’s entrepreneurial journey is driven by resilience and optimization—two traits he honed through his long-term commitment to CrossFit. He draws a parallel between physical training and business leadership, emphasizing how mental grit and consistency are vital to pushing through complexity, both in the gym and in scaling a tech startup.That mindset helped shape Trellis Law’s mission: to demystify and organize fragmented state trial court data. Traditional legal databases often overlook state-level courts, but that’s where the majority of litigation actually happens. Trellis bridges this gap by aggregating data from over 3,000 courts across 46 states and delivering intuitive, actionable insights for litigators.Trellis isn’t just a data aggregator—it’s a strategic platform. With features like judicial analytics, generative AI drafting tools, and judge-specific behavior patterns, Trellis enables attorneys to prepare smarter motions, manage client expectations, and make data-informed decisions with confidence. The result? Less guesswork and more wins.About Alon ShwartzAlon Shwartz is the Co-Founder and COO of Trellis Law. With a background in entrepreneurship and a passion for solving complex data challenges, Alon leads the company’s operations and innovation strategy. His insights into legal tech, AI, and product development make him a standout thought leader in the legal analytics space.About Trellis LawTrellis Law is a legal intelligence platform that provides state trial court analytics and litigation insights. The platform helps litigators, law firms, insurance companies, and legal departments streamline case preparation and make data-informed decisions. Trellis is transforming how legal professionals access and apply state court data.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Trellis Law WebsiteAlon Shwartz on LinkedInEpisode Highlights:Why state trial court data is a largely untapped resource in legal techHow Trellis empowers lawyers to strategize using real judicial dataThe connection between athletic discipline and startup successHow Trellis is leveling the playing field with accessible legal intelligenceThe AI tools that are changing how legal research gets doneConclusionTrellis Law is paving the way for a smarter, more strategic approach to litigation—especially at the state level. As Alon Shwartz shares, success in the legal field is no longer just about intuition; it’s about leveraging the right tools to make better decisions, faster. If you’re looking to modernize your practice, Trellis offers a compelling first step.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Cybersecurity Insights for Business Leaders: Expert Advice from Derek Kernus of Aethon SecurityIn today’s rapidly evolving digital world, cybersecurity is no longer just a concern for large enterprises—it's a critical part of every organization’s strategy. In this recent episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sat down with Derek Kernus, CEO of Aethon Security, to discuss how business leaders can protect their organizations from the growing wave of cyber threats. The conversation dives deep into the importance of cybersecurity, compliance, and practical steps that leaders can take to stay ahead of the curve in an increasingly complex landscape.Understanding Cybersecurity and Compliance in Today's Business WorldDerek Kernus opens the conversation by highlighting the current cybersecurity threats faced by businesses today. Nation-state actors from China and Russia are increasingly targeting U.S. government networks and contractors, aiming to steal sensitive information or disrupt critical infrastructures like energy grids, water systems, and healthcare. As businesses digitize more of their operations, the number of potential attack points expands, making it essential for leaders to treat cybersecurity as a core business risk.Derek emphasizes the importance of compliance, particularly for government contractors who must meet cybersecurity standards like the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Failure to comply with these requirements can result in lost contracts, legal penalties, and reputational damage. Even in the private sector, companies are increasingly expected to adopt rigorous cybersecurity measures. By understanding and implementing these frameworks, businesses can ensure that they are protected and ready to meet both governmental and industry-specific standards.The episode also addresses real-world cyber threats, including the Colonial Pipeline attack and attempts to disrupt municipal water systems, underscoring the need for proactive security measures. Derek offers actionable cybersecurity tips for business leaders to improve their organizational defenses and protect sensitive data.Actionable Cybersecurity Tips for Business LeadersDerek shares several practical, actionable cybersecurity steps that leaders can implement immediately to enhance their company’s security posture. One of the most essential steps is implementing Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) across all critical accounts. MFA significantly reduces the risk of unauthorized access, even if passwords are compromised. Derek advises prioritizing MFA for administrative and remote access accounts and training employees on how to use it.Another key recommendation is to conduct regular vulnerability scans. These scans help identify system weaknesses before they can be exploited. Derek stresses the importance of automating these scans, prioritizing high-risk vulnerabilities, and keeping records of the scans and remediation efforts for compliance purposes. Additionally, keeping software and systems up to date is crucial. Outdated software often serves as a gateway for cybercriminals, so applying patches and updates promptly can close those security gaps.Finally, Derek encourages business leaders to leverage federal cybersecurity frameworks like NIST and CMMC to better manage risks and ensure compliance. These frameworks offer structured, proven guidelines to assess and improve cybersecurity defenses, making them invaluable tools for organizations of all sizes. Derek advises that even non-government contractors benefit from adopting these best practices.About Derek KernusDerek Kernus is the CEO of Aethon Security, a cybersecurity consulting firm that helps organizations navigate complex compliance requirements and protect their data from cyber threats. Derek brings years of experience working with both government contractors and private businesses to create tailored cybersecurity solutions that align with their unique needs.About Aethon SecurityAethon Security is a cybersecurity services provider focused on helping organizations, particularly federal contractors, strengthen their security posture and achieve compliance with regulatory frameworks like CMMC and NIST. Aethon Security offers gap assessments, tailored recommendations, and continuous support to ensure organizations are protected from evolving cyber threats.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeAethon Security WebsiteDerek Kernus on LinkedInEpisode HighlightsThe growing cybersecurity threat landscape, including nation-state actors targeting U.S. organizationsWhy compliance is essential for government contractors and private businesses alikeKey steps for implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce cyber risksThe importance of vulnerability scans and regular software updates in cybersecurity defenseHow to leverage federal cybersecurity frameworks like NIST and CMMC to improve securityConclusionThis conversation with Derek Kernus emphasizes the importance of proactive cybersecurity for businesses of all sizes. As cyber threats continue to evolve, business leaders must take steps to safeguard their organizations, comply with necessary standards, and invest in ongoing security measures. By implementing these best practices, organizations can better protect themselves from costly cyberattacks and ensure business continuity in an increasingly complex digital environment.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Leading with Flexibility in Uncertain Times with Kevin EikenberryIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Kevin Eikenberry, Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group and author of Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence. Kevin shares timely insights on how today’s leaders can thrive amid volatility by staying grounded in their values while adapting their strategies. From navigating change to investing in leadership development, this episode offers a practical roadmap for leaders who want to lead with confidence and clarity—even when the future is unclear.How to Lead with Confidence in a Volatile WorldKevin emphasizes that modern leadership isn’t about always having the answers—it’s about being agile, values-driven, and committed to continuous learning. Drawing on decades of coaching leaders, he shares how embracing flexibility doesn’t mean abandoning structure. Instead, it means having deep roots (your values) and being able to bend (your strategy) when the winds of change blow. Leaders must separate their identity from their roles and build adaptive thinking into their teams. He also introduces the metaphor of a tree: stable at the roots, flexible in the branches—a model that resilient leaders should follow.Through candid conversation, Kevin and Josh explore how uncertainty can actually be a catalyst for growth. Leaders who acknowledge unpredictability, model transparency, and focus on what they can control are more likely to build trust and drive results. Kevin also warns against falling into the “leadership trap”—confusing your job title with your personal identity. Real leadership, he explains, comes from consistent values-based action, not positional authority.Finally, Kevin shares actionable strategies for building leadership capacity. He encourages leaders to invest in training, conduct value clarification exercises, and remain open to feedback. With tools like his free masterclass and The Remarkable Leadership Podcast, Kevin equips leaders to become more effective in both mindset and behavior. His ultimate message: Great leadership is less about control and more about creating clarity and consistency in how you show up for your team—even when everything around you is changing.About Kevin EikenberryKevin Eikenberry is the Chief Potential Officer of The Kevin Eikenberry Group and a globally recognized leadership expert, speaker, and author. His work focuses on developing remarkable leaders and equipping them to navigate change, uncertainty, and growth with confidence.About The Kevin Eikenberry GroupThe Kevin Eikenberry Group is a leadership and learning consulting company helping individuals and organizations unleash their potential. Through workshops, coaching, books, and digital resources, the firm provides tools that help leaders build influence, flexibility, and success.Links Mentioned in this EpisodeKevin Eikenberry’s WebsiteKevin Eikenberry on LinkedInFree Leadership MasterclassFlexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence (Book)The Remarkable Leadership PodcastEpisode HighlightsWhy flexible leadership is essential in today’s uncertain business climateHow to lead with strong values while remaining adaptableKevin’s “tree metaphor” for resilient, values-rooted leadershipAvoiding the leadership trap of tying your identity to your titleActionable strategies for growing leadership skills in any organizationConclusionKevin Eikenberry’s conversation with Josh Elledge shines a light on what it really takes to lead effectively in turbulent times. By anchoring in values and remaining open to change, leaders can inspire trust, build resilience, and drive meaningful results. Whether you’re managing a small team or leading an entire organization, Kevin’s insights offer a clear path toward becoming a more thoughtful, flexible, and effective leader.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

How to Scale Your Business and Build Effective Teams: In-Depth Insights from Aaron Goodwin of Your Modern LegacyIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Aaron Goodwin, Founder & CEO of Your Modern Legacy, to explore how business owners can strategically scale, hire, and build systems that free them to work on their business, not just in it.Scaling Strategy, Delegation, and MindsetAaron introduces a stage-based approach to scaling: $0–1M emphasizes sales and marketing, $1–3M prioritizes team building, and $3–8M requires systematization. He stresses that each stage brings its own challenges, and what brought you success at one level won’t necessarily work for the next. Clarity about your current business stage is essential for targeted growth.To unlock growth, Aaron recommends a practical four-step hiring framework—role definition, structured screening, skills assessments, and behavioral interviews—designed for consistency and long-term fit. He further urges business owners to perform a time audit, tracking their tasks to reveal where delegation is needed. Doing so helps free up the founder’s time for strategic priorities.Aaron also advocates for a “future-self” mindset: begin living in alignment with your vision of leadership today. Simple actions—outsourcing non-core tasks, documenting systems, and making hiring decisions aligned with your goals—signal to your brain and your team that you’re committed to elevating your business. That alignment, he explains, is what powers growth and leads to lasting freedom.About Aaron GoodwinAaron Goodwin is the Founder & CEO of Your Modern Legacy, a coaching and training firm helping entrepreneurs scale intentionally, build effective teams, and reclaim time for strategic growth.About Your Modern LegacyYour Modern Legacy offers free tools like the Four‑Step Interview Guide, monthly webinars, and customized coaching for CEOs aiming to build legacy-driven, team-powered businesses.Links Mentioned in This EpisodeAaron’s LinkedIn ProfileYour Modern LegacyKey Episode HighlightsRevenue Stage Strategy: Tailor systems and team-building to your growth stage.Structured Hiring: Four-step interview framework prevents costly mistakes.Time Audit Insight: Reveals tasks that hinder growth and freedom.Delegation by Design: Document processes before assigning to others.Future-Self Mindset: Act “as if” to align daily decisions with long-term goals.ConclusionScaling your business is a strategic journey shaped by vision, clarity, and discipline. Aaron Goodwin’s playbook—focused on stage-specific systems, structured hiring, time mastery, and future-oriented mindset—proves that sustainable growth and lasting legacy begin with intentional action.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Sales Mastery in the Modern Era with Navid MomeniIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge talks with Navid Momeni, Founder and CEO of Sales Guru Global and author of How to Become a Sales Master. Navid dives into what sets top-performing sales professionals apart in today’s market—emphasizing curiosity, empathy, and the relentless pursuit of growth. He shares how modern sales is about problem-finding over problem-solving, and why consistency, coachability, and a “growth mindset” are essential for success.Mastering Sales in Today’s Evolving LandscapeNavid emphasizes that modern sales professionals excel through curiosity, in-depth research, and empathetic listening. Instead of pushing products, they act as trusted advisors who uncover client challenges and tailor meaningful solutions. These skills transform sales conversations into opportunities for connection, clarity, and trust-building.He also explains the importance of daily habits like tracking activity, refining objection handling, and practicing consistent follow-up. The concept of “clobbering”—relentless repetition and feedback—helps salespeople build muscle memory and improve performance over time. Navid stresses that coachability and consistency are key markers of lasting success.Lastly, Navid highlights the human side of selling—resilience, adaptability, and giving back. He believes sales mastery includes a responsibility to uplift others, which is why 100% of proceeds from his book are donated to charity. His holistic view of growth as both personal and professional sets a powerful standard for sales leaders today.About Navid Momeni:Navid Momeni is the Founder and CEO of Sales Guru Global and the author of How to Become a Sales Master. He brings over a decade of experience coaching sales teams and individuals to elevate their performance and mindset. Navid’s training emphasizes skill development, resilience, and continuous learning.About Sales Guru Global:Sales Guru Global delivers customized sales training and consulting for startups, SMBs, and enterprise clients. The company offers go-to-market strategy support, sales team workshops, and 1:1 coaching programs to accelerate sales performance.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Navid Momeni on LinkedInSales Guru Global WebsiteKey Episode Highlights:Why curiosity and empathy are today’s most valuable sales traitsHow to develop resilience and coachability in your sales careerWhat “clobbering” means and why it drives masteryThe importance of continuous skill upgrades and self-reflectionHow Navid’s book contributes to global charitable causesConclusionJosh and Navid explore how mastering sales in today’s world requires both strategic thinking and emotional intelligence. From diagnosing hidden challenges to building lasting client trust, Navid’s approach equips listeners with actionable tactics and a mindset for growth.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

How Supliful is Empowering the Next Generation of E-Commerce Entrepreneurs with Martins LasmanisIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge speaks with Martins Lasmanis, Co-founder and CEO of Supliful. Martins shares how his innovative platform is transforming the way small and mid-sized businesses launch and scale fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) brands. From his love for binge-worthy shows and mystery novels to his deep e-commerce insights, Martins offers a compelling look at how Supliful removes the barriers for modern entrepreneurs.How Supliful Streamlines Success for E-Commerce BrandsMartins built Supliful with a clear mission: make it easier for entrepreneurs to launch product-based businesses. Supliful offers a robust white-label catalog of over 250 items—from skincare and supplements to specialty coffee and pet care—all without requiring upfront inventory costs. Supliful handles fulfillment and shipping, allowing business owners to focus on branding and growth. By sourcing locally within the U.S., the company also shields clients from global supply chain disruptions while ensuring fast delivery.In a landscape where margins are thin and consumers expect transparency and speed, Supliful provides a game-changing solution. Martins advises staying calm and adaptive, using tools like Supliful to test products quickly, optimize operations, and meet rising customer expectations. With real-time analytics and educational resources, entrepreneurs can refine their strategies and scale faster with minimal risk.Actionable Strategies and the Future of E-CommerceMartins shares tactical tips that any e-commerce leader can use. To increase average order value, he suggests bundling complementary products—like pairing skincare serums with cleansers—at checkout. Brands using this strategy have seen up to a 30% lift in AOV. Martins also recommends leveraging Supliful’s analytics to make informed decisions, encouraging entrepreneurs to iterate based on customer feedback.The future of e-commerce, according to Martins, lies in the rise of solo founders, niche micro-brands, and consumer demand for transparency. Supliful empowers lean teams to build powerful brands without logistical headaches. Entrepreneurs can browse products, customize branding, and launch online in days, not months. One inspiring user started from a parent’s basement and grew into a seven-figure brand with Supliful’s support.About Martins Lasmanis:Martins Lasmanis is the Co-founder and CEO of Supliful, a platform that enables entrepreneurs to build white-label FMCG brands with no upfront inventory. He brings passion, curiosity, and a deep understanding of e-commerce to his leadership, helping thousands of founders launch and grow their businesses with ease.About Supliful:Supliful is a white-label e-commerce platform that allows users to sell over 250 curated products without managing inventory or fulfillment. By focusing on U.S.-based manufacturing and rapid go-to-market capabilities, Supliful helps entrepreneurs minimize risk and scale faster.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Martins Lasmanis on LinkedInSupliful WebsiteEpisode Highlights:Why Supliful is a game-changer for launching FMCG brandsHow to raise average order value using complementary productsStrategies for navigating e-commerce challenges in 2024The rise of solo founders and micro-brandsReal success stories and Supliful’s vision for the futureConclusionJosh and Martins explore how Supliful is creating a more accessible e-commerce ecosystem for entrepreneurs of all experience levels. From reducing startup risk to accelerating brand growth, Martins outlines how Supliful is paving the way for success in an increasingly competitive market.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!

Mastering Disaster Preparedness and Business Continuity: Expert Insights from Kenneth EdmondsIn this episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Kenneth Edmonds, CEO & Founder of 22nd Century Management, to explore the critical importance of disaster preparedness and business continuity. Kenneth shares his extensive experience helping companies safeguard operations, prevent catastrophic losses, and create actionable strategies for resilience. From cybersecurity threats to natural disasters, this conversation is a powerful wake-up call for any business owner who wants to protect their people, profits, and reputation.Why Disaster Planning Is Non-NegotiableKenneth emphasizes that proactive disaster planning is not just a safety net—it’s a business imperative. With 40% of businesses never reopening after a major disaster, the stakes couldn’t be higher. He illustrates this with the story of a limousine company that survived 9/11 thanks to a well-executed plan, gaining a competitive advantage while others faltered. Kenneth urges leaders to treat disaster planning as an ongoing process that builds organizational readiness and agility.He breaks down how companies can identify critical functions, assess vulnerabilities, and use tools like AI to inform risk assessments. Kenneth also highlights often-overlooked areas, such as untested data backups and vague communication protocols, that can make or break recovery efforts. His advice: test, revise, and engage your team regularly to ensure your plan is both comprehensive and executable.From creating incident command structures to running simulation drills, Kenneth lays out a roadmap that transforms disaster planning from a dusty binder into a dynamic, life-saving strategy. His expert insights help leaders prepare for the worst while empowering their teams to act with clarity and confidence when crises hit.About Kenneth Edmonds:Kenneth Edmonds is the CEO & Founder of 22nd Century Management and a seasoned disaster preparedness expert. With decades of experience, Kenneth has helped businesses develop comprehensive continuity plans, mitigate risk, and navigate crises with confidence. His work integrates AI-driven assessments, team training, and best-in-class frameworks to help organizations stay resilient in the face of any disruption.About 22nd Century Management:22nd Century Management specializes in disaster preparedness, business continuity planning, and risk mitigation for businesses of all sizes. With a hands-on, customized approach, the firm helps clients protect their operations, empower their teams, and stay competitive even in times of crisis.Links Mentioned in this Episode:Kenneth Edmonds on LinkedIn22nd Century Management WebsiteEpisode Highlights:40% of businesses never reopen after a major disasterKey elements of a comprehensive disaster planReal-world case study: A limo company’s survival post-9/11Why cybersecurity insurance and tested backups are crucialBuilding incident command structures and running simulationsConclusionKenneth Edmonds delivers a compelling message: disaster planning isn’t optional, it’s essential. His strategies help businesses not only survive the unexpected but emerge stronger and more competitive. This episode is a must-listen for leaders ready to safeguard their future with clarity, confidence, and action.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestMore 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.Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!