In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO  of The Business Growers, Laura Johns. Laura Johns is the driving force behind The Business Growers, a company that serves as a fractional CMO and implementation team for founder-led companies with 50 or fewer employees. The Business Growers is a godsend for companies that may not need or can't afford an entire marketing team. They provide both implementation and high-level strategy services, filling the gap in the market for affordable yet practical marketing solutions. Laura shared that companies often hire individuals with high expectations, expecting them to handle all aspects of marketing. This can be challenging and often leads to less-than-optimal results. The Business Growers works well with companies that have an in-house marketing person who serves as a liaison and project manager but lacks the skill set to execute marketing strategies fully. If this sounds like your company, then you might be ready for The Business Growers' services. Laura emphasized the importance of consistent branding and messaging. She suggests checking if all marketing materials, websites, business cards, and email signatures are consistent. This consistency is vital to creating a strong brand identity that resonates with your target audience. Key Points from the Episode: The Business Growers is a fractional CMO and implementation team for founder-led companies Discussion on when a company might be ready to hire The Business Growers' services Branding, messaging, and social media strategies for increasing visibility and attracting leads Insights on thought leadership and authenticity on social media Origin of the name "The Business Growers" and the size of Laura's team The Business Growers works well with companies that have an in-house marketing person but lack the skill set to fully execute marketing strategies Importance of consistent branding and messaging across marketing materials Laura's journey from accidental entrepreneur to starting The Business Growers About Laura Johns: Laura Johns is the accomplished founder and CEO of The Business Growers, a prominent marketing firm specializing in serving B2B telecom, SaaS, IT, and cloud-services industries. With an impressive career spanning 18 years, Laura's expertise has been honed through managing marketing efforts for a diverse range of companies, from tech startups to global conglomerates, with nearly half of her career spent as a corporate marketing executive in the telecommunications sector. Her primary focus centres on developing highly effective marketing strategies tailored to technology companies, leading to tangible and significant successes. Today, The Business Growers boasts an extensive clientele of over 50 companies across 15 states. Laura's contributions to her home state of Mississippi have not gone unnoticed, as she has received accolades such as "Top 50 under 40" and "Top 50 Leading Women in Business." She is a distinguished member of the Leadership Mississippi program, an honour conferred by the Mississippi Economic Council. Laura's educational background is equally impressive, graduating cum laude from Mississippi College and earning a Master of Arts degree from the University of Alabama. She is also recognized as the co-founder and host of two notable podcasts: "The Home and The Hustle," catering to working moms and "The Know, Grow and Scale" videocast and podcast tailored for entrepreneurs. Laura Johns is undoubtedly a prominent figure in the marketing and business world. About The Business Growers: The Business Growers is a solution-oriented marketing firm that specializes in aiding tech companies facing marketing challenges, particularly those without a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO). Recognizing that numerous tech companies encounter difficulties in achieving effective marketing results due to the absence of an in-house CMO, The Business Growers fills this gap. This innovative company offers comprehensive services, including high-level marketing strategy development and implementation support. By doing so, they empower tech businesses to boost their revenue and expand their market presence without hiring a full-time marketing team. The Business Growers' expertise lies in tailoring marketing solutions to the unique needs of tech companies, enabling them to navigate the competitive landscape and achieve their growth objectives more efficiently and cost-effectively. With a focus on delivering tangible results, The Business Growers is a valuable partner for tech companies seeking to thrive in today's dynamic business environment. Tweetable Moments: 08:24 - "I think one of the things that we're seeing really good success with is people just being authentic and showing up on social media both as a brand and as an organizational leader." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:  https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Business Growers website at https://thebusinessgrowers.com/ Check out The Business Growers on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-biz-growers/ Check out The Business Growers on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/thebizgrowers/ Check out The Business Growers on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/thebizgrowers Check out The Business Growers on Twitter at https://twitter.com/thebizgrowers Check out Laura Johns on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/laurapickardjohns/ 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 Chief Executive Officer of Win BIG Media, Brandon McKee. In the current economic climate, many businesses are cutting back on their marketing spend, particularly in brand awareness campaigns. However, Brandon advises against this. Instead, he sees this as an opportunity for businesses to increase their market penetration and gain a competitive edge. By focusing on brand awareness and understanding customers' needs, businesses can increase their revenue and return on investment (ROI). Transparency and data-driven marketing are two key factors that Brandon emphasizes when working with agencies. He encourages clients to ask about the transparency of reporting and the key performance indicators (KPIs) that agencies track to ensure ROI. If an agency lacks transparency or cannot provide data to support their strategies, it's a red flag. Win Big Media's approach to marketing is media-agnostic. They analyze first-party customer data and their extensive third-party data to determine the most effective advertising channels for each client. This approach prioritizes efficiency and optimization, ensuring that ad campaigns are targeted correctly and unnecessary spending is avoided. Their  data-driven approach, which is based on data collected from 230 million American consumers, proved to be a game-changer in this fast-paced environment. Recognizing the potential of this approach, Win Big Media decided to extend their services to corporations, helping them understand their customers' psychological drivers for better results. Key Points from the Episode: Overview of Win Big Media's data-driven approach to marketing Origins of Win Big Media in political marketing and expansion into corporate marketing Types of clients Win Big Media works with, from small businesses to Fortune 500 companies Conducting customer insights reports using extensive data before running advertising campaigns Importance of transparency and data-driven marketing in achieving ROI Examples of big brands Win Big Media has worked with, emphasizing the use of data in marketing strategies Challenges of interpreting data and turning it into actionable insights Comparison of political campaigns targeting different voter segments to corporate marketing strategies targeting different customer segments About Brandon McKee: Brandon McKee is an essential figure at Win BIG Media, orchestrating, supervising, and streamlining operations within the organization. His pivotal role involves guaranteeing the implementation of efficient operational strategies and cost-effective systems that cater to the present and future requirements of Win BIG Media. Before his tenure at the rapidly expanding WBM, Brandon accrued over a decade of experience in various capacities within the fitness industry. With a Senior Professional in Human Resources certification from HRCI, Brandon also excels in strategic planning. He is raised in the Washington DC vicinity and resides in Arlington, VA. Outside of work, Brandon's pursuits often revolve around spending time at the dog park, where he enjoys the company of his rescue puppy, Bruno, and his partner, Paul. About Win BIG Media: Win BIG Media is a dynamic agency focused on revolutionizing the marketing landscape. Committing to data-driven strategies and innovative, creative solutions empowers business owners and entrepreneurs to reshape industry norms and optimize their ROI. Bolstered by a seasoned team of marketing strategists and acclaimed creative professionals, Win BIG Media equips its clients with a competitive advantage, ensuring success daily. Central to Win BIG Media's ethos is its mission to foster business growth, employment opportunities, and life-altering impacts. This mission is driven by The Undefeated Marketing System, an unwavering approach that ensures continuous and boundless client expansion. In essence, Win BIG Media emerges as a catalyst for transformative marketing endeavours, propelling businesses towards enduring success and forging a new era in the marketing realm. Tweetable Moments: 06:23 - "If you're a business owner out there and you're looking at your budgets, you're looking at what you're going to cut right now because things are tougher, it really really shouldn't be marketing." 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 Win BIG Media website at https://www.winbigmedia.com/ Check out Win BIG Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/winbigmedia Check out Win BIG Media on Instagram at http://instagram.com/winbigm Check out Brandon McKee on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandon-mckee-sphr-b742a860/ 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 Legacy Coach of The Life You Love Coaching LLC, Joe Lander. Joe Lander is different from your typical coach. His work is centred around understanding his purpose and making a meaningful difference in the lives of others. He challenges the status quo and helps successful professionals and executives identify, create, and live their unique, significant legacies. Joe's background is as diverse as it is impressive. He has worked as an attorney, HR manager, and financial advisor, always focusing on contribution and finding solutions that made sense for his clients. After almost 20 years in financial services, he realized there was more to life than financial success. This led him to ask his clients about their true purpose for money and help them uncover their unique legacies. Joe emphasizes the importance of clarity and becoming one's guru. He helps his clients put together the puzzle pieces of their lives and excavate their deeply held core beliefs. They can find fulfilment and contribute to the world by articulating their legacy in a particular way. Like many high achievers, Joe admits he often feels he's being hard on himself regarding topics like legacy. He believes that his personal experiences make him relatable to others, as he has always questioned whether what he was doing was what he wanted. Joe's journey towards realizing the importance of helping others and creating a meaningful legacy is inspiring. He mentions that many people feel stuck in their current roles and may question if there is something more for them. Joe emphasizes the significance of continuously asking and inquiring about one's purpose and potential. He believes helping others achieve self-actualization and living a fulfilling life is the ultimate goal. Key Points from the Episode: Joe's work centered around understanding his why and creating meaningful legacies Joe's diverse background and transition from financial services to coaching Importance of clarity and becoming one's own guru in uncovering core beliefs and legacy High achievers feeling hard on themselves when it comes to legacy Joe's journey towards realizing the importance of helping others and creating a meaningful legacy Working with individuals feeling stuck, burnt out, or unsatisfied in their work Joe's approach going beyond traditional career coaching and diving deep into life experiences About Joe Lander: Joe Lander is the driving force behind "The Life You Love Coaching," a platform dedicated to empowering accomplished professionals and executives. He assists them in transcending their professional accomplishments by fostering a distinct personal legacy that resonates meaningfully with present and future generations. Recognizing that many high achievers yearn for a more profound impact beyond their careers, Joe helps them tap into their innate potential and creativity. Utilizing a unique methodology, Joe guides individuals in piecing together their life's narrative, illuminating the path that aligns with their purpose. By delving into their core beliefs, clients uncover the power to envision and actualize their extraordinary contributions, ensuring their legacy lives on. Joe's approach is founded on the exclusive R.E.S.O.L.V.E roadmap, a proven framework customized to each person's journey. This roadmap equips them with the tools and strategies to embrace their purpose, surmount challenges, and transform their vision into reality. Joe Lander's coaching empowers individuals to leave a lasting imprint on the world that transcends their professional accomplishments. About The Life You Love Coaching: The Life You Love Coaching specializes in guiding elite, high-performing professionals towards resolving internal conflicts that hinder their true purpose. By addressing these conflicts, individuals gain the assurance and self-assurance needed to unlock their genuine potential, leading to enhanced fulfillment and joy. The coaching program is meticulously designed to cater to top-tier achievers, assisting them in overcoming barriers that prevent them from achieving their highest aspirations. Clients develop the clarity and confidence necessary to embrace their unique greatness through personalized guidance and strategies, resulting in enriched satisfaction and happiness. "The Life You Love Coaching" empowers accomplished professionals to navigate their path with authenticity and purpose, enabling them to experience a more meaningful and fulfilling journey. Tweetable Moments: 08:44 - "Legacy is not something you leave, it's what you get to live now." 23:05 - "Creating a meaningful legacy is about leaving a lasting impact on the world." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:  https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Life You Love Coaching website at https://thelifeyoulovecoaching.com/ Check out The Life You Love Coaching on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/joe-lander-the-life-you-love-coaching/ Check out Joe Lander on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joseph-m-lander/ 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 & Creative Director of Qream Design Agency, Bohdan Paladiichuk. Bohdan emphasized the importance of keeping the team small to foster creativity and collaboration. He believes a more minor team allows for a more intimate, hands-on approach to their projects. Bohdan explained crucial factors in creating a connection with users and increasing engagement. He likened it to the experience of interactive movies, where viewers can make choices and feel more involved in the story. When asked about the process of coming up with creative ideas, Bohdan explained that it is a skill that can be practiced and developed. He credits his background in comedy and his team's passion for generating innovative ideas. Bohdan emphasized that branding is not just about colors and logos but about the overall promise and value that a brand communicates to its customers. Cream Design Agency helps companies with various channels, including websites, brand communication, and promotional videos. They also assist with the pre-website stage, focusing on brand identity and contact to convey the product's value effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of keeping the team small for creativity and collaboration Use of UX and interactive elements in website design to increase engagement Process of generating creative ideas and the role of comedy and passion Focus on working with tech companies that contribute to making the world a better place Helping brands develop a clear identity and stand out in the market Importance of brand promise and value in branding Assistance with brand communication, promotional videos, and pre-website stage Aligning the product with the brand's promise Fostering creativity through frameworks and exercises, such as design thinking Importance of message and target audience in branding Seeking connections with individuals and businesses who want to engage and stand out About Bohdan Paladiichuk: Bohdan Paladiichuk is a multifaceted individual known for his impactful contributions in various fields. With a unique blend of design, motion, and emotion, he has successfully elevated marketing strategies to new heights. A strong advocate for growth and aesthetics, he's also renowned as an avocado enthusiast. Passionate about emerging technologies, Bohdan actively engages in projects that promote environmental sustainability, benefit humanity, and protect animals. His versatile background includes seven years in music, six years in scriptwriting, and five years in Ju-Jitsu. He demonstrates exceptional leadership skills with four years of experience in top management. Bohdan's diverse experiences are exemplified by his 3-month stay in Bali and his efficient 2-week execution of a scrum sprint. He prides himself on shattering clichés and embracing innovation. Through his dynamic journey, Bohdan Paladiichuk continues to leave a positive imprint on marketing, technology, and personal growth. About Qream Design Agency: Qream Design Agency is a powerhouse of creativity and innovation that leaves a lasting impact. Specializing in crafting vibrant and captivating brands, Qream is known for transforming the mundane into remarkable. Their portfolio boasts eye-catching websites that function as compelling advertisements and impressive videos, animations, and 3D designs. Their excellence has garnered recognition, including being named the 2022 TOP B2B in Ukraine by clutch.co/qream. Qream also earned the prestigious 2022 Website of the Year award from Orpetron for funkywolves.com, and their mobile prowess was celebrated with the 2022 Awards for Mobile Excellence for supermegahyperdoge.com. Notable collaborations with influential entities like Viber, Huobi, IOTA, the Fund of the President of Ukraine, and Ice Cube exemplify their impact. Qream's dedication extends beyond aesthetics, as they draw inspiration from projects that improve the environment, humanity, and animals. Tweetable Moments: 05:38 - "I believe that having this mechanics of the UX where the person can influence what's happening on the website, they can play around with it, touch around or see the immediate results of it, I think that gets the connection a bit warmer with the potential user because again it feels like you're kind of having fun together which I think is what you're trying to also achieve with the business as well as you want to great minds you know co-creating some project at least that's the way I envisioned the best work to happen." 18:57 - "Our enemy is like the boring brand and the faceless brand, the brand that is just trying to be like everybody else." 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 Qream Design Agency website at https://theqream.com/ Check out Qream Design Agency on LinkedIn at https://linkedin.com/company/19056355 Check out Qream Design Agency on Facebook at https://facebook.com/qreamdesign Check out Qream Design Agency on Instagram at https://instagram.com/qream_design_agency Check out Qream Design Agency on Twitter at https://twitter.com/qream_design Check out Bohdan Paladiichuk on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/bohdan-paladiichuk/ 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 Founder of Freeceo, Annelise Worn. Annelise's journey is one of resilience and determination. She launched her marketing agency in 2017 and soon realized the need to empower women to control their marketing. This led her to start teaching DIY marketing, expanding her focus to include both men and women. Her mission? To help entrepreneurs design businesses prioritizing their well-being and serving as vehicles for freedom. One of the most common challenges Annelise has observed among women entrepreneurs is the tendency to get caught up in the busyness of their businesses. This often leads to undercharging for their services, resulting in burnout and entrapment within their creations. Annalise's solution is to help entrepreneurs establish structures that make their businesses work for them, not the other way around. Regarding marketing trends, Annelise is enthusiastic about a shift towards more relationship-based marketing. While automation and funnels have their place, she believes building genuine connections and focusing on substance is vital in today's market. She advises against relying solely on paid advertising and emphasizes the importance of nurturing relationships with potential customers. Annelise also touched on the use of AI in marketing. She sees its potential to make processes more efficient when used correctly. However, she warns against using AI as a shortcut and encourages leveraging it to generate ideas and inform content planning. Key Points from the Episode: Annalise Warren's journey and impact in the marketing world Common challenges faced by women entrepreneurs The importance of putting structure in place to make businesses work for entrepreneurs The trend towards relationship-based marketing The use of AI in marketing and its potential benefits and cautions Moving away from band-aid solutions in offers Speaker 2's programs for building agencies Speaker 2's podcasts and how to find them About Annelise Worn: Annelise Worn is a business strategist and CEO of a digital agency known for empowering coaches, course creators, membership owners, and service providers to achieve freedom, profit, and impact in their lives by integrating efficient systems into their businesses. She is the Founder of Freeceo, an all-in-one marketing, sales, and CRM software platform. Annelise's journey began when she was denied a family-friendly work schedule in 2016, leading her to build a successful agency from her in-laws' kitchen table. Despite facing challenges like undercharging and hiring the wrong people, she learned valuable lessons she now shares with others. Annelise teaches the 7 Simple Systems that helped her break free, avoid burnout, and build a thriving business, allowing her to homeschool her four children and enjoy a self-built home by the beach. She is now a featured expert in various media and events and hosts the Mumstyle Business Podcast and Impact Business Show. About Freeceo: Freeceo is an all-in-one business platform designed to streamline and optimize various aspects of your business. With Freeceo, you can replace multiple tools and consolidate your operations efficiently. It is a comprehensive solution for website and funnel creation and landing pages and acts as a central communication hub with features like email, two-way texting, Facebook and Instagram DMs, and ringless voicemail. Additionally, it offers social media scheduling, calendar bookings, forms, surveys, quizzes, and a chat widget for seamless client interactions. Freeceo also facilitates contract signing, individual and group email management, and automation to save time and effort. Managing payments, review feedback, memberships, and hosting courses is made simple through its versatile features. By integrating all these functionalities, Freeceo empowers businesses to enhance productivity and effectiveness in one place. Tweetable Moments: 02:39 - "We end up drowning in client work and we've created effectively this prison for ourselves instead of this vehicle to freedom." 13:18 - "If you're in that place where you are feeling overwhelmed and like you need some structure then you can go to analyze one or slash seven the number seven systems and you'll find that you can download that there." 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 Freeceo website at https://freeceo.tech/ Check out Annelise Worn on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ Check out Annelise Worn on her website at http://anneliseworn.com/ Check out Annelise Worn on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/annelise.worn/ Check out Annelise Worn on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/annelise.worn.5/ Check out Annelise Worn on Instagram at https://instagram.com/anneliseworn 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 Founder of ELF Solutions Inc, Erin Thorp. Erin's journey in the construction and engineering industry exposed her to various types of leadership. This experience inspired her to focus on leadership development training, coaching, and facilitation through her company, ELF Solutions. She emphasizes the importance of equipping leaders with "power skills," often referred to as soft skills in other contexts. One of the key "power skills" Erin highlights is empathy. While the construction industry may not initially seem like a field where the heart is crucial, she argues that it is essential when dealing with clients to understand their needs and deliver the best projects. She noticed a lack of empathy within construction teams, which sparked her mission to create an environment where everyone can thrive. Erin defines empathy as understanding and accepting other people's perspectives, emotions, feelings, and opinions. She emphasizes that empathy is not about reaching agreement but about demonstrating understanding and acceptance. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of empathy in leadership Erin's book "Inside Out Empathy" ELF Solutions and its focus on leadership development training, coaching, and facilitation Equipping leaders with "power skills" (soft skills) Lack of empathy within construction teams Definition of empathy as understanding and accepting others' perspectives, emotions, feelings, and opinions Importance of understanding and acknowledging one's own emotions About Erin Thorp: Erin Thorp is an empathic keynote speaker, writer, and coach for leaders in high-stress industries. With 20 years of experience in male-dominated engineering and construction, Erin noticed a lack of emotional skills among technical leaders. This inspired her to focus on supporting leaders in navigating conflicts, communication, and performance during challenging times. She believes "soft" skills like empathy, vulnerability, and connection are essential for impactful leadership. During the pandemic, Erin observed how leaders treated their employees and decided to address the issue herself. She now runs her leadership business full-time. Erin authored "Inside Out Empathy," a book that explores using empathy to build effective teams, drawing from her career and experiences as a mother. As a knowledgeable speaker and facilitator, Erin shares her expertise at various events and conferences, including those organized by the Vancouver Regional Construction Association, CCWESTT Conference, and Women Building Futures. She also conducts workshops and keynotes for corporations like WNORTH, Atlas Gas, ATCO Energy, Cenouvous Energy, and Schneider Electric. Erin holds a Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering from the University of Calgary. She is an Associate Certified Coach through Integral Coaching Canada and a Certified Mental Fitness Coach through Positive Intelligence. Additionally, Erin is an authorized partner with The Wiley Brand and the Ken Blanchard Companies, certified to deliver DiSC, The 5 Behaviors, and SLII training. She resides in Calgary, Alberta, Canada, with her husband and three children and enjoys reading, outdoor activities, and cooking with her family in her spare time. About ELF Solutions Inc: Elf Solutions Inc. is a leadership consulting company that offers personal and professional development services to emerging leaders, professionals, business owners, and entrepreneurs. Their services include 1:1 coaching sessions, keynote speaking engagements, and facilitated workshops. The company is known for its expertise in fostering leadership skills and helping individuals and teams thrive in their respective fields. One of Elf Solutions' notable achievements is the authorship of the book "Inside Out Empathy." This book highlights the underestimated superpower of empathy and its significance in building, developing, and inspiring strong and cohesive teams. Through their coaching and workshops, Elf Solutions aims to equip clients with the essential tools to enhance their leadership capabilities, improve communication, and navigate challenges in high-stress environments. With a focus on empowering leaders with emotional intelligence and people skills, Elf Solutions Inc. plays a crucial role in shaping effective and empathetic leaders who can drive success in both personal and professional spheres. Tweetable Moments: 04:56 - "We spend all this time getting to know our clients and customers so we can deliver the very best project and product to them, and we spend no time trying to get to know our own internal teams and trying to figure out how do we make this an environment where everyone can thrive." 12:49 - "You got to get in touch with what's really going on with you first because if you don't have the capacity to hold your own emotion, you'll never have the capacity to hold the emotion of anyone else." 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 Elf Solutions Inc. website at https://www.erinthorp.ca/ Check out Elf Solutions Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elfsolutionsinc/ Check out Erin Thorp on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/erin-thorp-speaker/ Check out Erin Thorp on Twitter at https://twitter.com/erin_thorp Check out Erin Thorp on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/erinthorpcoaching Check out Erin Thorp on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/elthorp/?hl=en 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, Keynote Speaker & Consultant of The B3 Method Institute, Amy Vetter. Amy Vetter is a unique blend of a CPA, yoga instructor, and technologist. She leverages this diverse background to help individuals and businesses find balance and bliss. During our conversation, Amy emphasized the importance of self-awareness and the need for moments of stillness and silence. She believes we can optimize our productivity and overall well-being by disconnecting from our fast-paced, left-brain-dominated world and tuning into our intuition. This approach is about taking drastic changes over time. Instead, Amy encourages individuals to start small with intentional habits, such as focusing on breathing and taking moments to reset the central nervous system. Amy acknowledges that everyone's journey to mindfulness is unique. It takes time for individuals to be ready to embrace mindfulness practices. She also recognizes the stress experienced by professionals, particularly CPAs and entrepreneurs. To address this, she developed a methodology outlined in her book "Business Balance and Bliss." This methodology focuses on understanding stressors and using mindfulness and collaboration techniques to create bliss and maintain happiness. Amy also emphasizes the need for self-awareness and intentional thoughts to shape our perception and reality. She offers resources such as books, webinars, and consulting services to help individuals and organizations achieve work-life harmony. She aims to transform workplaces into destinations where employees are happy and fulfilled. Key Points from the Episode: Amy Vetter's work and role as CEO of the B3 Method Institute Importance of incorporating mindfulness into leadership and work-life harmony Amy's background as a CPA, yoga instructor, and technologist Need for self-awareness and moments of stillness and silence Disconnecting from the frenetic left brain and listening to intuition Starting small with intentional habits and focusing on breath Acknowledging that everyone's journey is unique and takes time Amy's methodology outlined in her book "Business Balance and Bliss" Using mindfulness and collaboration techniques to create bliss and maintain happiness About Amy Vetter: Amy Vetter, CPA, CITP, CGMA, MBA, and Certified Speaking Professional (CSP), is a highly accomplished CEO, keynote speaker, consultant, and author. She is the creator of the B3 Method® for Business, Balance & Bliss, which has empowered countless individuals across various industries and career levels to reach their full potential in work and life. As a prominent figure in the accounting and finance profession, Amy has been recognized as one of the "Most Powerful Women in Accounting" by the AICPA and CPA Practice Advisor and a Top 100 Most Influential Person by Accounting Today. She contributes her expertise to publications like AICPA's Journal of Accountancy, Accounting Today, CPA Practice Advisor, Inc.com, and Entrepreneur.com. Amy's diverse background, including an MBA and entrepreneurial experience, has made her a skilled C-suite executive and corporate board member. She is well-versed in cloud technology, business transformation, and go-to-market strategies for scaling businesses nationally and internationally. Through her books, "Business, Balance & Bliss: How the B3 Method Can Transform Your Career and Life" and "Integrative Advisory Services: Expanding Your Accounting Services Beyond the Cloud," Amy shares powerful insights on living an authentic life, achieving work-life harmony, and emphasizing the significance of human connections. Her latest book, "Disconnect to Connect; Tap into the Power Within You to Achieve the Life You Desire," is an Amazon Bestseller that guides readers in breaking negative generational patterns and harnessing the power within themselves to design the life they truly desire. Amy's impactful TEDx Talk, "Disconnect to Connect: The Path to Work-Life Harmony," further demonstrates her dedication to inspiring positive change and personal growth. About The B3 Method Institute: The B3 Method® Institute is a comprehensive educational organization offering various services to support personal and professional growth. The institute guides individuals and organizations in different essential areas through keynote speaking, education, advisory services, and subject matter expert (SME) consulting. The core focus of The B3 Method® Institute is to help individuals achieve their desired potential in their careers and personal lives by leveraging the B3 Method (Business + Balance = Bliss). Each B3 Bundle features a distinct theme tailored to address various aspects of life, encompassing work-life harmony, authenticity, and presence. With a strong emphasis on wellness, mindful leadership, employee engagement, and productivity, the institute equips participants with the tools and knowledge necessary to thrive in a rapidly changing digital landscape. The B3 Method® Institute's mission is to empower individuals to find balance, purpose, and fulfillment in their professional and personal endeavors. Tweetable Moments: 02:43 - "We're not taking those moments of stillness, of silence, of really trying to observe what's going on internally for us because that takes a lot of courage to be still, to listen to our mind, and be open to what those messages are." 15:17 - "The hardest thing to do was pause and sit and really assess what it is that's not creating happiness for you." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur:  https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The B3 Method® Institute website at https://www.amyvetter.com/the-b3-method-institute Check out The B3 Method® Institute on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/quick-start-training-inc/ Check out Amy Vetter on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyvettercpa/ Check out Amy Vetter on Twitter at https://twitter.com/AmyVetterCPA?lang=en Check out Amy Vetter on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/AmyVetterCPA/?ref=br_rs Check out Amy Vetter on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/amyvettercpa/ 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 Founder and CEO of Wolf's Edge Integrators, Ben Wolf. Ben is a successful entrepreneur and the author of the groundbreaking book "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." His journey from a corporate bankruptcy attorney to a healthcare startup and eventually founding his firm is inspiring. Ben's experience scaling a business from a handful of people to over 100 employees has given him a unique perspective on entrepreneurs' challenges. His insights led him to write the first book on fractional executive leadership and start a podcast in this niche, making him a pioneer in this field. Ben shed light on the concept of fractional leadership. He described it as a solution to the "entrepreneurial catch 22" - a situation where businesses reach a point where their old strategies no longer work, but they can't afford experienced talent to help them evolve. This is where fractional executives come in. They provide businesses with access to experienced talent part-time, helping them navigate their growth challenges. Ben further explained the indicators that suggest a business might benefit from fractional leadership. Key Points from the Episode: Ben's background and experience in fractional leadership Explanation of fractional leadership and its benefits for businesses Indicators that suggest a business could benefit from fractional leadership Example of an HVAC company with a low-functioning leadership team Overview of Ben's book "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach" Mention of Ben's podcast "The Win-Win Podcast" for small and mid-sized business owners About Ben Wolf: Ben Wolf is a renowned international speaker specializing in the entrepreneurial scaling of businesses. Often referred to as the "godfather" of fractional executive leadership, he has played a pivotal role in popularizing and advancing the outsourced, part-time executive leadership industry. As the founder and CEO of Wolf's Edge Integrators, the world's largest fractional COO firm, he has provided executive talent and expertise to businesses seeking growth and operational excellence. Ben's expertise and insights have reached a broader audience through his bestselling book, "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." Additionally, he hosts the well-received Win Win Podcast, further contributing to disseminating valuable business knowledge and strategies. His impactful work continues to inspire and support entrepreneurs worldwide. About Wolf's Edge Integrators: Wolf's Edge Integrators is a distinctive team comprising individuals with a rare blend of skills and qualities. These exceptional individuals must have experience in running companies, embody a Founder's drive, and possess a unique ability to collaborate with visionaries while maintaining a results-oriented mindset. Thriving on orchestrating chaos, they find vigor in this process rather than exhaustion. Their commitment to iterative transformation is a defining trait. Ben Wolf, the founder, has detailed their essence in the Amazon bestseller "Fractional Leadership: Landing Executive Talent You Thought Was Out of Reach." Geared toward weary business owners and Integrators who possess founder-like zeal, this book encapsulates the vision. The rigorous selection process empowers us to guarantee a full refund within the initial 30 days if our commitment falters—a testament to their caliber. About Fractional Leadership LLC: Fractional Leadership LLC is a distinguished professional association and community catering to all types of fractional executives, including firm owners, solo practitioners, and members of firms. The organization was established to address the lack of a centralized resource in the fractional executive leadership industry, providing valuable information and support to fractional executives and business owners seeking insights into this field. As the market leader for the Fractional Leadership industry, this organization offers a range of essential services, including professional development opportunities, networking connections, peer advisory support, and advocacy for both solo practitioners and firms engaged in fractional executive roles. Fractional Leadership LLC plays a crucial role in advancing the knowledge, expertise, and success of professionals within the fractional executive leadership domain by fostering a collaborative and supportive environment. 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 Fractional Leadership LLC website at http://www.fractionalleadership.io/ Check out Fractional Leadership LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/fractional-leadership/ Check out Fractional Leadership LLC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/FractionalLeadership/ Check out Wolf's Edge Integrators website at https://wolfsedgeintegrators.com/ Check out Wolf's Edge Integrators on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/wolfsedgeintegrators/ Check out Ben Wolf on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrengallop/ Check out Ben Wolf on Twitter at https://twitter.com/benbenabe  Check out Ben Wolf on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100009896588207  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 of Carbide, Darren Gallop. Darren explained that the black market for cybercrime has surpassed the proceeds from illicit drugs globally, and organized crime groups are becoming more involved. With the regulatory environment becoming more aggressive, companies face complex compliance requirements, primarily if they operate internationally. One of Darren's key points was the importance of addressing human error in data breaches. Carbide offers a platform that helps companies mitigate this risk. Carbide is a company that is making waves in the cybersecurity industry. They provide a unique service that helps small- to medium-sized companies comply with information security and data privacy. Darren emphasized the importance of cybersecurity and the risks associated with not following best practices. Many companies approach Carbide because they must meet specific security requirements to do business with government agencies, enterprises, or insurance companies. Previously, companies would handle security internally with outside assistance or hire expensive cybersecurity consulting firms. Carbide, however, offers a new way of doing things. They provide tools that leverage intelligent technology and cloud-based solutions to help organizations build security and privacy programs more efficiently and cost-effectively. Key Points from the Episode: Emphasis on the importance of cybersecurity and the risks of not following best practices Explanation of why companies come to Carbide, often due to security requirements from government agencies, enterprises, or insurance companies Description of Carbide's approach, leveraging intelligent technology and cloud-based solutions to build security and privacy programs efficiently and cost-effectively Focus on Carbide's target market, primarily B2B software-as-a-service companies Discussion of how Carbide acquired their first customers through their network and connections Growth of Carbide, including sales and marketing efforts, building a sales team, and implementing a go-to-market strategy Highlighting the growing threat of cybercrime and the need for companies to prioritize cybersecurity Mention of the increasing complexity of compliance requirements, especially for companies operating internationally About Darren Gallop: Darren Gallop is the Co-Founder and CEO of Carbide, a leading cybersecurity firm that equips businesses of all sizes with tools to establish robust cybersecurity and privacy measures. His company helps clients protect their data from cybercriminals, transform security into a competitive advantage, and foster accelerated growth. With Carbide, Darren has raised over $7 million in funding and witnessed a rapid expansion of their clientele, especially in regulated markets such as e-commerce, FinTech, healthcare, and Insurtech. Darren has over 15 years of experience as a CEO and Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for various businesses handling sensitive data. This experience has enabled him to develop a keen understanding of evaluating and managing risks in alignment with organizational goals while fostering growth. Before Carbide, he co-founded Marcato, an innovative event management platform utilized by 300+ music and cultural events worldwide, including renowned events like Burning Man and Coachella. After a decade of successful leadership as CEO and CISO, Darren decided to focus entirely on the cybersecurity industry. He holds certifications as a Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) and Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP). About Carbide: Carbide is a company that offers accessible enterprise-class security and privacy solutions to rapidly growing businesses. Unlike standard compliance tools, their information security and privacy management platform is built on universal best practices, allowing customers to demonstrate their dedication to security and comply effortlessly with various security frameworks and privacy regulations. With Carbide's platform, businesses can seamlessly integrate security and privacy measures into their organizational structure, enhancing their competitive advantage and facilitating accelerated growth. By promoting and proving their commitment to security, companies can navigate the complexities of cybersecurity and privacy regulations more effectively, ultimately leading to a more secure and prosperous future. Tweetable Moments: 03:57 - "Companies should follow best practices because that's what's going to save them if you have a major data breach." 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 Carbide website at https://carbidesecure.com/ Check out Carbide on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/carbidesecure/ Check out Carbide on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CarbideSecure Check out Darren Gallop on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrengallop/ Check out Darren Gallop on Twitter at https://twitter.com/darrengallop 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 Founder, Publicist & Creative Director of The Conscious Publicist, LLC, Ashley Graham. Ashley's journey began as a publicist, representing clients to get them featured on podcasts. However, in 2023, she took a leap of faith and became a podcaster. This transition allowed her to experience both sides of the podcasting journey, giving her a unique perspective on the power of this medium. Ashley believes podcasts offer a direct window into conversations and the impact of shared stories. They have a unique power in storytelling and creating emotional connections through auditory experiences. Regarding PR and publicity, Ashley emphasizes the importance of building solid relationships and adopting a long-term perspective. While visibility and recognition are the ultimate goals, PR is a journey that requires consistent effort and cannot guarantee immediate results. Ashley acknowledged that some prospective clients still seek traditional media, but she also encouraged them to be open to other opportunities. While traditional media still holds value, Ashley emphasizes the benefits of digital platforms, such as repurposing content and measuring results through SEO. Key Points from the Episode: Ashley Graham's background as the founder and publicist of The Conscious Publicist The power of podcasts in storytelling and creating emotional connections The importance of building strong relationships and long-term perspectives in PR and publicity The value of traditional media in today's social media-dominated world Success story of a client featured in Newsweek and the collaborative relationship with Ashley The benefits of digital platforms and measuring results through SEO Leveraging opportunities in traditional media and engaging with the audience About Ashley Graham: Ashley Graham, Founder of The Conscious Publicist, is a strong advocate for purpose-driven businesses and their potential to drive positive change. She and her team believe in the power of storytelling and are dedicated to helping clients build meaningful connections and relationships. By guiding businesses in developing practices and strategies aligned with their goals, Ashley aims to foster a more conscious and sustainable world. The Conscious Publicist offers tailored PR and media services that align with the client's values and goals, empowering purpose-driven businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and visionaries to positively impact their target audience. What sets TCP apart is its unique approach to curating offers and services that align with the client's mission, focusing on personal and interpersonal growth alongside PR strategies. As a leader, Ashley has experienced significant growth, becoming more self-aware and proactive in addressing limiting beliefs or practices. Her commitment to conscious living and empowering businesses creates a more sustainable future, inspiring others on their entrepreneurial paths. About The Conscious Publicist: The Conscious Publicist is a unique PR, Media, and Thought Leadership concierge that caters to Subject-Matter Experts, Thought-Philanthropists, and Impact-Driven Organizations. Their primary focus is raising the recognition and credibility of conscious voices and leaders who aim to inspire transformation through public messages and stories. The company addresses the problem faced by purpose-driven businesses, digital entrepreneurs, and visionaries who require assistance amplifying their message and gaining visibility within their target audience. The Conscious Publicist provides PR and media services aligned with the client's values and objectives, helping them establish a strong brand identity, increase visibility, and effectively resonate with their audience. What sets The Conscious Publicist apart is their distinctive approach to curating offers and services that align with the client's mission and purpose. They prioritize a balance between "doing" and "being," focusing on PR and media strategies and personal and interpersonal growth. By empowering clients to develop the necessary character traits and strengths, the company creates a supportive space for clients to make a lasting positive impact on the world. Tweetable Moments: 07:43 - "I always say that there is a blend between doing PR but then also a process of being and really coming back to center and identifying what led you on that path in the first place." Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guest Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out The Conscious Publicist website at https://theconsciouspublicist.com/ Check out The Conscious Publicist on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-conscious-publicist/ Check out Ashley Graham on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/theconsciouspublicist/ Check out Ashley Graham on Twitter at https://twitter.com/mediaarchetype 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.