The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Dr. Alok Trivedi, Founder & Author, discusses the connection between the brain and healing, and how entrepreneurs can rewire their brains to improve decision-making. He shares success stories and highlights the role of physical factors in mental health. He also explores the impact of unhealthy thinking on wealth creation, and offers insights on achieving true abundance while maintaining health.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & CEO of Intelogos, Vasily Malyshev. Vasily Malyshev delved into several critical topics related to the innovative platform known as "Intelogos." He founded this platform as CEO and leads harnesses the power of analytics and artificial intelligence to revolutionize employee well-being, recognition, and performance management. It not only aids employees in avoiding burnout and receiving awards for their work but also offers valuable insights to employers, enhancing team performance and efficiency, particularly in remote work environments. Vasily highlighted the shortcomings of traditional performance management methods, such as subjective employee reviews and daily questions, citing their tendency to produce inaccurate and biased data. He emphasized the critical need for fair and objective feedback in fostering employee satisfaction and retention. He stressed the significance of providing employees with clear metrics for raises and bonuses, underscoring the potential consequences of failing to do so, which can lead to job dissatisfaction and increased turnover rates. Vasily also explained how Intelogos' AI-driven platform can anticipate issues and opportunities by analyzing extensive datasets and recognizing patterns of behavior that lead to either positive or negative outcomes. This capability enables users to proactively identify risks and opportunities and receive actionable suggestions based on these patterns. While Vasily believed that Intelligence could benefit a wide range of companies, he identified particular suitability for those engaged in computer-based work, larger organizations struggling with team management, and companies with remote work arrangements. Key Points from the Episode: Explanation of Intelogos as an employee well-being, recognition, and performance management platform Use of analytics and AI to help employees avoid burnout and get recognized for their work Assistance provided to employers in understanding team performance and improving efficiency Importance of intelligent tools for assessing and monitoring employee performance, especially for remote teams Discussion on current methods of performance management and their limitations Importance of fair and objective feedback for retaining valuable employees Desire for objective feedback to help employees grow and achieve personal goals Explanation of how Intelogos platform anticipates problems and seizes opportunities through data analysis and AI Target audience of Intelogos, including computer-based companies, larger companies with team management challenges, and companies with remote work Benefits of Intelogos for junior employees in measuring performance and progress objectively About Vasily Malyshev: Vasily Malyshev is a dynamic entrepreneur with a notable track record over the past decade. He has founded and managed three successful companies, showcasing his business acumen and leadership skills. His entrepreneurial journey includes merging his first venture into the second and orchestrating the successful acquisition of his second company. Currently, Vasily is spearheading his latest venture, Intelogos. Alongside his business accomplishments, he has pursued a dual education in law, completing studies at two law schools. Vasily's dedication to professional growth is also reflected in his personal life, having entered into marriage. This website serves as an informative platform, offering insights into his achievements and aspirations, aimed at engaging potential partners, colleagues, and investors for future endeavors. About Intelogos: Intelogos is a groundbreaking people analytics and AI performance management platform headquartered in New York and operating with a fully remote structure. The company is revolutionizing its perspective on human resources by leveraging advanced analytics and artificial intelligence. By harnessing these technologies, Intelogos offers innovative solutions that enhance how organizations view and manage their workforce. The platform empowers businesses to gain deeper insights into employee performance and engagement, facilitating data-driven decisions for optimal results. With its New York roots and remote operations, Intelogos is at the forefront of shaping the future of work and transforming the conventional approach to human resource management. Tweetable Moments: 15:01 - "Our platform will allow those junior employees who just came to the company if they work just as well as a middle or senior, our platform will suggest that they should get a raise, they should get a bonus because they are doing at least as good as everybody else and therefore they should be compensated fairly as well." 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 Intelogos website at https://www.intelogos.com/ Check out Intelogos on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/intelogos/ Check out Intelogos on Twitter at https://twitter.com/intelogos Check out Intelogos on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/intelogos Check out Intelogos on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/intelogos.software/ Check out Vasily Malyshev on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/vasilymalyshev/ 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 Brand Experience Expert, Katie Mares. Katie Mares is a force to be reckoned with. Her impact is centered on creating standout moments for customers and employees at her dealership and through her work at Perma Shield USA. Her mission is to help male-dominated spaces expand their reach to capture the world's most influential female consumers. Katie shared some eye-opening statistics: 65% of new car purchasers are women, and women make 85% of the decision-making in coupled relationships. Despite these figures, there's an apparent disconnect between the gender of the consumers and the gender of those designing and delivering the buying experience. Men still dominate the upper management and sales roles in the industry. Katie explained an apparent disparity in how men and women are treated when they walk into a dealership. She shared the results of her customer survey, where 87% of women said they would only go to a dealership with their husbands. Katie shed light on the importance of understanding and catering to the needs of female consumers in the automotive industry. There's a need for a shift in the industry that acknowledges and values women's influence and buying power. As Katie Mares continues her mission, we want to see more inclusive and tailored experiences for all consumers in the automotive industry. Key Points from the Episode: Katie Mares' impact and mission in creating standout moments for customers and employees Disconnect between the gender of consumers and those designing and delivering the buying experience Statistics on women's influence in car purchasing decisions Disparity in how men and women are treated at dealerships Results of Katie's customer survey on women's dealership experiences Importance of tailoring the buying experience to the individual customer Women's larger limbic brain and emotional intelligence Women's ability to communicate with creativity and logic Men's tendency to communicate only with logic and its impact on relationship-building About Katie Mares: Katie Mares is a prominent brand experience expert with a deep understanding of organizations' challenges in crafting sustainable and impactful customer experience (CX) programs tailored for female consumers. With a background as Chief Inspiration Officer, she brings extensive expertise in building company infrastructure and designing CX initiatives. Katie is a vocal advocate for positive change within partner organizations, leveraging her master's degree in Adult Training and Development from Schulich School of Business and her certification as a Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP). A globally sought-after speaker, she has captivated audiences worldwide, reshaping perspectives on female consumers, customer experience, and leadership. Katie has collaborated with renowned brands like Honda, Celebrity Cruises, and Canada Post. Residing in Toronto with her three children, Katie finds balance through travel, consulting, speaking engagements, and personal pursuits like yoga, shoe shopping, and cherished movie nights with her kids. Tweetable Moments: 04:21- "The reason I break it down into gender and the reason it's so important is because the men of the industry are not even recognizing the female when coming in with a man, so like right off the bat we have a gender equality issue when it comes to the female consumer." 12:48 - "We communicate with creativity and logic which means we can listen to all the details and we can also sift through them logically and then soften it up by creating that relationship and using that sort of creative language at the same time." 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 Katie Mares website at https://katiemares.com/ Check out Katie Mares Consulting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/katie-mares-consulting/ Check out Katie Mares on LinkedIn at https://ca.linkedin.com/in/katie-mares-ctdp-mcatd-cpsa Check out Katie Mares on Twitter at https://twitter.com/hellokatiemares Check out Katie Mares on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/katiemares/ Check out Katie Mares on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/katie.mares.16 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 President of FlexScreen, Joe Altieri. Joe highlights that FlexScreen is the market's first and only flexible window screen. Unlike traditional aluminum screens that are difficult to handle and easily damaged, Flex Screen is easy to install and incredibly durable. It can even withstand being run over by a car! The idea for FlexScreen started as a hobby in Joe's garage about ten to twelve years ago. Being in the window and door industry, Joe saw a need for a better solution and took it upon himself to create it. Joe discussed how FlexScreen has scaled their business and protected their intellectual property. They purchased a digital marketing company to help spread the word about their product and have changed their business model to rely on licensing their technology to window manufacturers. This allows them to scale without the pain and capital investment of opening new manufacturing locations. Joe emphasized the importance of having the right attorney to protect their patents and ensure non-compete agreements are in place with licensees. He acknowledges the concern of cheap knockoffs and mentions the need to protect their intellectual property actively, even if it means going to court. Joe also talked about the importance of educating window manufacturers on how to sell their products as a differentiator in the market. Key Points from the Episode: Description of FlexScreen as a flexible window screen that is easy to install and durable Comparison of FlexScreen to traditional aluminum screens Explanation of why aluminum screens are still used despite their drawbacks Origin of the idea for FlexScreen and its development in Joe's garage Discussion of how FlexScreen has scaled their business and protected their intellectual property Importance of having the right attorney to protect patents and ensure non-compete agreements Need to actively protect intellectual property, even through legal action if necessary Importance of educating window manufacturers on selling FlexScreen as a differentiator Encouragement for entrepreneurs to seek education and support in entrepreneurship About Joe Altieri: Joe Altieri's journey began as an independent window industry salesman, where he notably excelled in selling window screens. His ability to persuade manufacturers to outsource screens led to annual sales exceeding three million dollars. Frustrated by the flaws in traditional window screens, Joe took on the challenge of innovating the century-old technology. His breakthrough came with a flexible frame design using spring steel, solving the issue of fragile aluminum frames. He further improved the product by bonding mesh with PVC for durability. Joe was invited to present his flexible window screen to the Sharks, and he appeared in Season 11, Episode 10 to a national television audience of 30+ million. About FlexScreen: Founded by Inventor & CEO Joe Altieri in 2013, FlexScreen introduced the pioneering concept of the "world's first flexible window screen." Developed to address long-standing issues with traditional aluminum screens, FlexScreen revolutionized the window industry. After obtaining multiple patents, the product entered the market, initially targeting window manufacturers and dealers. However, due to industry hesitance, Joe shifted his focus and engaged in direct consumer sales through a strategic digital marketing campaign. The brand's rapid growth and innovative design captured the interest of ABC's Shark Tank, further propelling its recognition. FlexScreen's unique approach and adaptability represent a significant advancement in window screen technology, marking a transformative milestone in a previously stagnant market. Tweetable Moments: 21:00 - "We believe that every person has a message that can positively impact 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 FlexScreen website at https://curiositybased.com/ Check out FlexScreen on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/flexscreenllc/ Check out FlexScreen on Twitter at https://twitter.com/flexscreenllc Check out FlexScreen on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/flexscreen Check out FlexScreen on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/flexscreen/ Check out FlexScreen on TikTok at https://tiktok.com/@flexscreen Check out Joe Altieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaltieri/ Check out Joe Altieri on Twitter at https://twitter.com/joealtieri 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 President of Command Your Brand, Jeremy Slate. Jeremy passionately emphasizes the need for a strategic mindset and a focus on impact rather than becoming fixated on vanity metrics when contemplating a role as a podcast guest. Jeremy maintains that podcasting opens doors for networking and paves the way for fruitful collaborations and business partnerships. By inviting guests to participate in podcasts, individuals can seize the opportunity to showcase their expertise and craft content that holds substantial value and is adaptable to multiple platforms. He emphasizes that adopting a proactive and practical approach is imperative to extract the maximum benefits from podcast appearances. Transforming podcast episodes into diverse content formats, such as blog posts, proves invaluable, especially in light of challenges presented by social media platforms like Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, which often discourage users from straying outside their domains. Jeremy Ryan Slate also delves into the intricacies of the customer journey and user experience for prospective podcast guests. He underscores the importance of delivering value to the audience and establishing oneself as a bona fide expert during interviews. Offering free content and courses is a powerful strategy to construct a favorable reputation and amplify visibility. Jeremy urges guests to tailor their offerings to align with the audience's needs and desires, thereby determining the value they bring to the table. Key Points from the Episode: Benefits of being a guest on podcasts Power of podcasting as a marketing and networking tool Importance of mindset and impact in podcasting Networking opportunities in podcasting Showcasing expertise and creating valuable content as a guest Repurposing podcast episodes into other forms of content Overcoming challenges of sharing content on social media platforms Providing value and establishing authority as a podcast guest Focusing on the needs and desires of the audience About Jeremy Slate: Jeremy Ryan Slate is the dynamic host of the Create Your Own Life Podcast, dedicated to dissecting the strategies of top achievers worldwide. A graduate in literature from Oxford University, Slate also possesses a Master’s in Early Roman Empire Propaganda from Seton Hall University. His podcast garnered significant recognition, hailed as the #1 Podcast to Listen To by INC Magazine in 2019 and landed him a spot on Podcast Magazine's Top 40 Under 40 list in 2022. Alongside his wife Brielle, he co-founded Command Your Brand Media, a pioneering new media PR agency empowering entrepreneurs to convey their message through podcast guest appearances. Based in Stillwater, NJ, Slate's diverse pursuits include raising chickens and his past as a competitive powerlifter. About Command Your Brand: Command Your Brand is a trailblazing force in the evolving landscape of New Media, recognizing podcast as a prime avenue for optimal client exposure. Founded in 2016, the organization's initial vision, shaped by the audio equivalent of blogs, has evolved to encompass a broader spectrum, including Rumble, YouTube, and other consumed media forms. Focusing on clients with potent and often controversial messages that challenge prevailing norms and reshape perspectives, Command Your Brand operates within a context where podcasts embody the last stronghold of extended, unfiltered expression. In an era where genuine comprehension hinges on thorough discourse, rather than brief soundbites, podcasts offer unfettered, lengthy discussions that foster proper understanding and intellectual growth. Rejecting the notion of third-party curation, Command Your Brand empowers the public to engage with and sift through these ideas, cultivating a space where individuals independently assess and determine the resonance of the concepts presented. 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 Command Your Brand Media website at https://uniform.dev/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniformdev/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on Twitter at https://twitter.com/CYBMedia Check out Command Your Brand Media on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/commandyourbrand/ Check out Command Your Brand Media on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/commandyourbrand/ Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeremy-ryan-slate-bb7b284a/ Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/jeremyryanslate/   Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Twitter at https://twitter.com/JeremyRyanSlate   Check out Jeremy Ryan Slate on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Jeremyryanslate/   Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Uniform, Darren Guarnaccia. Darren pointed out that many companies had to adapt quickly to stay connected with their customers in a digital world. However, he also acknowledged that there is still room for improvement. Companies are exploring new technologies and innovations to enhance their digital presence and customer experience. Darren shared how Uniform is revolutionizing how teams collaborate to create compelling digital experiences. Uniform is more than just a platform; it's a tool that allows digital teams to blend content, data, and technology seamlessly. The goal is to overcome common challenges such as inefficient communication, waiting for developers, and general frustration. One of the unique aspects of Uniform is its "composable" nature. Darren likened it to Lego bricks, where users can assemble and reassemble different components to create a customized solution that meets their needs. This modularity allows for flexibility and adaptability, enabling users to easily plug in and remove other elements to test and learn what works best. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of collaboration and building customer experiences online Impact of COVID-19 on remote work and digital customer experiences Challenges faced by teams without a collaborative platform like Uniform Uniform as a visual workspace for blending content, data, and technology Integration with existing tools and benefits for clients in various industries Concept of "composable" and its application in Uniform's platform Making the platform easy to use, navigate, and connect data and content sources Focus on enhancing collaboration and streamlining processes About Darren Guarnaccia: Darren Guarnaccia is the President of Uniform, a pioneering Digital Experience Composition Platform (DXCP) empowering developers and marketers to manage their digital experience stack. With a wealth of experience, he combines top-tier product marketing and management techniques to navigate business hurdles, distinguish products, and catalyze remarkable expansion. In his role, Darren takes charge of crucial aspects, including marketing, product strategy, and enablement at Uniform. His leadership steers the development of innovative solutions, fostering seamless collaboration between technical and creative teams. Under Darren's guidance, Uniform continues to push the boundaries of digital experience management, offering a comprehensive platform that streamlines control over the intricacies of crafting and delivering exceptional digital experiences. About Uniform: Uniform DXCP empowers contemporary enterprises to construct swift and adaptable digital experience platforms. By establishing a uniform visual layer for content coordination across all channels, Uniform empowers business users, including marketing and e-commerce teams, to swiftly construct and experiment with ideas sans developer assistance. This proficiency is facilitated by pre-built integrations that eliminate the necessity for custom code when connecting content sources like legacy DXPs, customer data platforms, and headless services. Consequently, projects are expedited with reduced costs, all while preserving long-term adaptability for innovation. Uniform further enhances high-performance digital experiences by directly dispatching content to the forefront of modern CDNs, even accommodating personalized content delivery. Through these capabilities, Uniform DXCP stands as a catalyst for streamlined, cost-effective, and agile digital experience creation. Tweetable Moments: 11:36 - "That idea of being composable and staying composable, staying flexible, staying modular is super important." 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 Uniform website at https://uniform.dev/ Check out Uniform on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/uniformdev/ Check out Uniform on Twitter at https://twitter.com/uniformdev Check out Darren Guarnaccia on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/dguarnaccia/ 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.

Dan Levin, President & Co-Founder of ViralGains, shares how their platform facilitates two-way dialogue between brands and consumers. They gather zero-party data from individuals through surveys, targeting specific individuals with highly relevant ads across the open web. The podcast also discusses the need for engaging and valuable advertising experiences, the concept of zero-party data, and the importance of understanding brand values and consumer insights.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Founder of Eyeful Media, Antonella Pisani. One of the key insights Antonella shared was the importance of balancing instant gratification with long-term strategies like SEO. She emphasized the need to focus on reducing the cost of acquisition and understanding the lifetime value of a customer. She also highlighted the significance of customer satisfaction and the use of net promoter score to gauge client happiness. Antonella advises business owners to invest in these fundamental aspects of their business to maintain a solid foundation. Regarding B2B growth, Antonella underscored the importance of content creation, thought leadership, and effective messaging. She stressed the need to stand out in saturated channels like email and to focus on empathizing with customers' problems and providing solutions. Antonella also shared her thoughts on leadership and management. She believes in adapting one's management style to different types of employees, rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach. She also addressed the challenge of delivering negative feedback and the tendency for some managers to be too soft in their approach. Antonella believes constructive criticism is essential for personal and professional growth, and encourages employees to seek feedback from mentors or executive coaches. Key Points from the Episode: Assisting companies in scaling their presence and selling through marketplaces Working with private equity firms during due diligence process Importance of reducing cost of acquisition and balancing instant gratification with long-term strategies like SEO Understanding lifetime value and customer satisfaction, utilizing net promoter score Importance of content creation, thought leadership, and effective messaging in B2B growth Adapting management style to different types of employees Importance of constructive criticism and seeking feedback from mentors or executive coaches Maintaining professional boundaries and finding alternative outlets for venting within the workplace About Antonella Pisani: Antonella Pisani is the visionary founder and CEO of Eyeful Media, a cutting-edge digital marketing and consulting firm in Dallas. Launched in 2017, Eyeful Media has garnered remarkable success through organic referrals, securing a spot among the top 11% on the Inc. 5000 list for two consecutive years. With a staggering 1178% growth rate, the company stands out as one of America's fastest-growing private enterprises. Committed to both business excellence and community impact, Antonella leads by example. She directs 5% of Eyeful Media's profits to charitable causes, supporting organizations like Community Partners of Dallas, Dwell with Dignity, and The North Texas Food Bank. Antonella's involvement extends to advisory roles, including The North Texas Food Bank Advisory Council and the Dwell with Dignity Board of Directors. Emphasizing a progressive and balanced work culture, Eyeful Media's remote team spans 16 states and 23 cities, contributing expertise from diverse backgrounds. Antonella's 25-year experience in marketing and digital realms, including roles at Proflowers, Guitar Center, JCPenney, and Fossil, showcases her profound industry knowledge. An accomplished polyglot, Antonella's multilingualism and passion for travel enrich her leadership and personal pursuits, while her rescue pup, Riley, adds a touch of canine charm as the company's "Chief Security Officer." About Eyeful Media: Eyeful Media is a dynamic digital marketing and consulting firm specializing in enhancing the online revenue and digital presence of mid-sized companies. Garnering consecutive Inc. 5000 placements, the firm consistently ranks within the top 11% (2021, 2022) and secures recognition as Adweek's Fastest-Growing Agency (#13 overall, #5 West/Southwest, #6 digital, #5 woman-led, #5 minority-led). Distinguished by its client-centered approach, Eyeful Media exclusively recruits seasoned marketers, streamlining interactions by eliminating account managers. Services encompass SEM, Shopping, SEO, Paid Social, and Marketplace management, bolstered by Shopify Plus partnership. The firm's ethos revolves around practical growth strategies aligned with contemporary trends, championing data-driven decisions and media buying over fleeting trends. Comprising former in-house and agency experts, the team empowers clients seeking impactful marketing without building an extensive in-house team. Eyeful Media's work is dedicated to client growth, eschewing self-promotion for tangible results. Embracing diverse industries, approximately 60% of clients are B2C, and 40% are B2B, underscoring their adaptability and broad expertise. Tweetable Moments: 10:13 - "Go hire people smarter than you, as many as you can possibly find that join your team." 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 Eyeful Media website at https://www.eyefulmedia.com/ Check out Eyeful Media on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/eyefulmedia/ Check out Antonella Pisani on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/antonellapisani/ 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 Attorney & Founder  of Motiva Business Law, Danya Shakfeh. Danya specializes in helping entrepreneurs stay out of court and focus on their businesses. She does this by ensuring they have proper legal documentation and contracts. Danya explained that many business owners end up in court because they didn't take simple steps to protect themselves from legal disputes. She emphasized the importance of having a proper operating agreement and contracts to avoid costly litigation. Danya also pointed out that legal exposure is not just a risk for larger or brick-and-mortar companies. Still, she can also affect smaller businesses, especially in industries like startups and intellectual property. Danya also shared insights on trends in the intersection between small businesses and law. She mentioned that while she offers online resources and a YouTube channel, she has also been organizing in-person events to cater to people tired of virtual meetings after the COVID-19 pandemic. Danya emphasized the importance of proper due diligence when buying a business. She advised potential buyers to involve an attorney early in the process. She also highlighted the significance of obtaining consent from third parties involved in the business transfer, such as landlords or franchisors. Key Points from the Episode: Common legal topics that business owners should be aware of Guidance on hiring an attorney Mergers and acquisitions in business Startups and legal compliance Importance of proper contracts and legal documentation Legal exposure for small businesses Danya's events on how to buy a business Due diligence when buying a business About Danya Shakfeh: Danya Shakfeh is a dedicated attorney specializing in helping entrepreneurs navigate the legal complexities of their businesses, allowing them to focus on what they do best. With over a decade of experience in business law, Danya has become an expert in her field, consistently delivering top-notch services to her clients. Danya's primary focus is on contract review and drafting. She excels at identifying potential legal pitfalls within contracts, ensuring her clients' interests are protected and their business transactions run smoothly. Her meticulous attention to detail has kept numerous entrepreneurs out of legal trouble, allowing them to confidently conduct their business operations. One of Danya's notable achievements is being recognized as a Rising Star by Super Lawyers for nine consecutive years. This prestigious accolade is awarded to less than 2.5% of lawyers, underscoring her exceptional legal skills and dedication to her clients' success. What sets Danya apart is her commitment to understanding her clients on a deeper level. She doesn't just ask the routine legal questions; she delves into her clients' biggest fears and dreams. By gaining insight into their aspirations and concerns, she leverages her legal expertise to protect their interests and help them realize their entrepreneurial dreams. Danya is more than just a business lawyer; she's a trusted legal and business advisor. Her approach encompasses fear-crushing and dream realization, ensuring her clients receive comprehensive support and guidance throughout their entrepreneurial journey. With Danya by their side, entrepreneurs can confidently navigate the legal landscape, knowing they have a dedicated advocate committed to their success. About Motiva Business Law: Motiva Business Law is a versatile legal firm that employs various strategies to engage potential clients. They create valuable legal resources like "lead magnets," videos, publications, and systematic approaches to attract potential clients effectively. Motiva specializes in various legal areas, including contract law, employment-related matters, civil and business litigation, and business law. They have expertise in reviewing and drafting contracts across diverse industries such as technology, food, healthcare, and construction. Their legal services include litigating complaints, counter-claims, motions to dismiss, motions to strike, answers, replies, requests to admit, interrogatories, discovery requests, contracts, and demand letters. Motiva Business Law is committed to educating the community. They conduct public seminars tailored for new and established businesses, focusing on important topics such as business entity types in Illinois, general contract principles, and employment regulations. This commitment to education underscores their dedication to serving their clients and the local business community. Tweetable Moments: 12:43 - "For some business owners, it's not too much money, but for your average person, it could be someone's life savings." 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 Motiva Business Law website at https://motivalaw.com/ Check out Motiva Business Law on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/motivalaw/ Check out Motiva Business Law on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/motivalaw/?hl=en Check out Motiva Business Law on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/MotivaLaw/ Check out Motiva Business Law on YouTube at https://www.youtube.com/@motivabusinesslaw Check out Danya Shakfeh on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/danyashakfeh/ 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 & 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.