The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Managing Director, Business Coach & Executive of ActioncCOACH Solent, Kevin Stansfield.Kevin is a seasoned financial director and business coach specializing in transforming businesses into profitable, sustainable entities. His experience in growing companies significantly and improving work-life balance for business owners is invaluable. Kevin's track record includes a £34 million growth and a £15 million sale. Kevin's insights and strategies could prove essential if you're an entrepreneur seeking to optimize your business operations. His coaching extends beyond your expertise, covering crucial areas like team management, financial monitoring, marketing, and strategic planning. About Kevin Stansfield: Kevin, a highly experienced financial director, has dedicated his career to preventing entrepreneurs from becoming slaves to their businesses. After witnessing his father's business consume his life, he pledged to help others avoid the same fate. Using his expertise, he's driven significant growth in several companies, including scaling a company from £2M to £36M and aiding another in achieving a £15M sale. For the past 16 years, he has assisted over 300 business owners to improve their work-life balance while boosting profits. Stansfield is also a published author, with three books offering insights into optimal business management strategies.About ActionCOACH Solent: ActionCOACH Solent, part of the globally renowned ActionCOACH team, is a premier business coaching firm based in South Hampshire that supports local businesses to grow profitably.  With an ambitious goal to boost their clients' revenues by £50 million, profits by £10 million, and team members by 500 over the next five years, they focus on equipping business owners with necessary skills beyond their core expertise. These skills include effective team management, marketing, PR, customer service, and financial understanding. ActionCOACH also aids in strategic planning, helping business owners to envision and plan for a successful future. Their coaching methodology empowers owners to work ON their business rather than solely IN it, fostering sustainable growth, control, and balance. Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out ActionCOACH Solent website at https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/o/actioncoach-solent-8053907454Check out ActionCOACH Solent on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/actioncoach-business-coaching-solent/Check out Kevin Stansfield on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinstansfield/Check out Kevin Stansfield on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/kevin.stansfieldDon’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 Business Growth Strategist of Top Talent Agency, Richard Kaye. Dr. Richard Kaye is a man of many talents. He's not only a retired chiropractor but also a master negotiator and publicity expert. He has dedicated his life to helping people grow their businesses and accelerate their bottom line by securing fantastic publicity. He shared a personal story of using publicity to stand out as a chiropractor and become the most recognizable name in his field. His company guarantees results, such as best-selling books and media coverage, emphasizing the power of publicity in building credibility. When asked about the principles he recommends for someone looking to be recognized and stand out ahead of their peers, Dr. Richard Kaye was clear: it's not about what you do, but what's in it for them. He advises pitching to show hosts and media outlets by focusing on what the audience will get from it. He also emphasized the importance of targeting the right audience and finding the producers or decision-makers to pitch to. In the era of Zoom meetings and virtual appearances, being articulate in your pitch and attentive and engaged during media appearances is more crucial than ever. Dr. Richard Kaye also shared tips on reaching out to producers and constructing compelling pitches. He emphasized the importance of building authentic relationships with producers and focusing on serving their audience. He advised against bombarding talent with requests, as they often redirect such inquiries to their team. However, if a genuine human-to-human relationship is formed, it can lead to opportunities. One of the key takeaways from our conversation was the significance of making the host and producer look good. Dr. Richard Kaye suggests complimenting them and expressing gratitude for the opportunity. He also recommends sending a handwritten thank-you card to stand out.   Key Points from the Episode: Dr. Richard Kaye's impact and work in the world today The power of publicity in building credibility and growing businesses Principles for gaining recognition and standing out in the media Importance of focusing on what the audience will get out of it in pitches Targeting the right audience and finding decision-makers to pitch to Being articulate and engaged during media appearances Building authentic relationships with producers Making the host and producer look good Small gestures like sending a thank-you card Next steps for gaining publicity, such as becoming a best-selling author and appearing on national television   About Richard Kaye: Dr. Richard is a business growth expert who has dedicated 24 years to coaching entrepreneurs, aiding them in their journey from startup to established businesses. A distinguished speaker, he frequently graces podcasts, webinars, and radio and TV programs, including KGTV and KTLA. His global influence is reflected through his workshops in Australia, France, Japan, Russia, and the USA. The architect of 'The Secrets of Empowering Negotiation' program, he's shared platforms with renowned figures like Lisa Nichols and Les Brown. He was recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the Top Talent Agency. Besides, his social engagements include involvement with a United Nations NGO and other for-profit boards. He's also a founding member of the Taos Entrepreneurial Network and ex-vice president of CEO Space. His acclaimed book, 'The Secrets of Creating Customers for Life', showcases his expertise. He resides in Taos, New Mexico, with his wife, Angel.   About Top Talent Agency: Top Talent Agency, also known as Top Talent Publishing, redefines the concept of traditional publishing. They specialize in talent management and representation, uniquely prioritizing overall business profitability over singular book sales. The agency's philosophy revolves around the question: "How does an author make $100,000 with a book?" rather than simply selling 100,000 copies. The objective is to provide a maximal return on investment by tapping into various revenue streams and increasing exposure instead of focusing solely on book sales. By capitalizing on opportunities often overlooked by conventional publishers and printers, Top Talent Agency aims to offer services that significantly outpace standard publishing expectations. Its comprehensive, innovative approach reimagines publishing as a multifaceted venture extending beyond the written page to enhance authors' value. This visionary perspective sets Top Talent Agency apart in the dynamic publishing 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 Top Talent Agency website at https://toptagency.com/ Check out Dr. Richard Kaye on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-kaye-43523015/ 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 Mindset & High Performance Strategist, Byron Morrison. Byron Morrison is not just an ordinary guest. He is a professional who has dedicated his life to helping others navigate their personal and professional lives. His work primarily involves working with CEOs, entrepreneurs, and business leaders, equipping them with the mindset and skills to make better decisions and confidently lead. He also talked about overcoming fear by not being too hard on oneself and needing self-compassion. We often dwell on past mistakes, but Byron encourages shifting focus from dwelling on these to learning from them and implementing changes for the future. Byron shared his insights on how to prevent and recover from burnout. He highlighted three key factors: reconnecting with purpose, developing the right routines, and setting boundaries.Remembering why you started and finding what excites you can help reconnect with your purpose. Prioritizing your health and finding balance through the right routines is also crucial. Lastly, knowing when to take time off and step back is essential in setting boundaries. Byron also touched on the arbitrary nature of self-imposed deadlines and the need to delegate tasks effectively. He advises leaders to identify their zone of genius and delegate tasks outside of it. Clear communication and understanding with the person they are delegating to is also vital.   Key Points from the Episode: Discussion about Byron Morrison's professional work Conversation about his book, "Maybe You Should Give Up" Exploration of the concept of giving up on obstacles to achieve goals Conversation about overcoming fear and taking action Discussion about being too hard on oneself and the importance of self-compassion Conversation about burnout and thethree factors to prevent and recover from burnout: reconnecting with purpose, developing the right routines, and setting boundaries Shifting focus from dwelling on past mistakes to learning and implementing changes for the future Advice for leaders on delegation and avoiding becoming a bottleneck in the business   About Byron Morrison: Byron is a renowned author of three best-selling books and an international consultant who aids CEOs, entrepreneurs, and leaders reclaim control over their lives and businesses. His transformation journey began following his father's cancer diagnosis, during which he lost 50 pounds and overcame self-sabotage that affected his health, relationships, and success. This experience propelled him to help others surmount their obstacles, a mission he's pursued for over a decade across 15 countries. Morrison’s latest book, “Maybe You Should Give Up: 7 Ways to Get Out of Your Own Way and Take Control of Your Life,” encapsulates his work and experience and will be available in stores in June. His life and work underscore the powerful potential of personal transformation.   Tweetable Moments: 04:16, "It's all about recognizing where it's coming from and then giving up the control that has over you." 10:31, "It's not dwelling on things that can't be undone." 18:54, "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 Byron Morrison website at https://www.byronmorrison.com/ Check out Byron Morrison on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/authorbyronmorrison/ Check out Byron Morrison on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/authorbyronmorrison Check out Byron Morrison on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/authorbyronmorrison 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 BOSS Startup Science, Gregory Shepard. According to Gregory, bad decisions are the number one reason for startup failure. However, he explains that bad advice is the root cause of these bad decisions. Surprisingly, the main contributors to lousy advice are investors and mentors. This is attributed to investors needing firsthand experience as founders and mentors needing to understand the specific needs of each business. Investors may give advice based on their experience working with founders, but with a deep understanding of the operations and details of the business, their advice can be beneficial. For instance, they may push founders to raise money or focus on valuation without considering the long-term consequences. Similarly, mentors who have had success in the past may need more expertise to provide relevant and practical advice for current market conditions. To address this issue, Gregory suggests a model similar to the medical field, where general practitioners refer patients to specialists for specific diagnoses and treatments. In the business world, it is essential to seek advice from specialists who deeply understand the particular challenges a founder is facing. Shepherd emphasizes the importance of teaching founders the necessary skills and knowledge so that they can navigate their entrepreneurial journey independently. However, mentors are still valuable in providing context and guidance. For example, if a founder takes a course on valuation, they will understand how valuation works and be able to defend themselves to an investor. Conversely, mentors can help founders along this learning journey by understanding how they have learned valuation.   Key Points from the Episode: Common reasons for startup failure Bad decisions as the number one reason for failure Investors and mentors as main contributors of bad advice Lack of firsthand experience as founders and understanding of specific business needs Importance of seeking advice from specialists Resources and courses offered by Startup Science Tools such as grant finder and investor network Teaching founders necessary skills and knowledge Openness to suggestions and advice from mentors and interested individuals   About Gregory Shepard: Gregory is a highly experienced serial entrepreneur, having completed 14 liquidity events, including two notable transactions contributing to a $925M deal that won four PE awards for deals between $250M-$1B. Known for his strategic insights, he's a ForbesBooks author with over 100 articles published in national and international outlets. Shepard is also a TEDx and keynote speaker at numerous universities, associations, and conferences globally. As the host of Meet The BOSS on Forbes Radio, he shares his expertise widely and is a regular guest on popular podcasts, TV and radio shows. Co-founding BOSS Capital Partners, where he facilitates global investments in tech startups. Moreover, through BOSSStartupScience, he provides entrepreneurs with resources and guidance via his Business Operating Support System (BOSS), an open source methodology designed to improve startup success rates.   About BOSS Startup Science: BOSS Startup Science aims to improve the success rate of startups, given that the current 90% failure rate is disheartening. The CEO, Greg Shepard, believes that education, connections, and assistance are crucial to helping founders succeed. Their mission is to support startups in achieving success, focusing on one founder at a time. This endeavor is fueled by the understanding that wealth inequality is closely tied to entrepreneurship, with 95% of people improving their financial situations by selling a business. BOSS Startup Science began by extensively researching the reasons behind startup failures. They conducted 1,200 interviews and thoroughly analyzed research data. The findings revealed that many founders repeat avoidable mistakes, primarily related to people, knowledge, and financial resources. While accelerators are designed to aid startups in overcoming these challenges, only 2% of applicants get accepted. The main reasons for rejection are needing more knowledge and connections within the startup ecosystem. Hence, BOSS Startup Science seeks to provide founders with the necessary tools, knowledge, and networking opportunities to increase their chances of success.   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 BOSS Startup Science website at https://www.startupscience.io/ Check out BOSS Startup Science on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/boss-startup-science/?viewAsMember=true Check out BOSS Startup Science on Twitter at https://twitter.com/bossstartups Check out BOSS Startup Science on Facebook at https://m.facebook.com/people/BOSS-Startup-Science/100076130833610/ Check out Gregory Shepard on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregshepard/ Check out Gregory Shepard on Twitter at https://twitter.com/GregShepard_ Check out Gregory Shepard on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/gregshepard_/ Check out Gregory Shepard on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/GregoryJShepard/ 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 Vice President of Find Your Audience, Nathan Yeung. Nathan isn’t your-typical marketing professional. As a fractional Chief Marketing Officer (CMO), he and his team serve as a plug-and-play marketing team for various clients, from national franchises to large B2B enterprises and venture capital and private equity firms. Unlike traditional agencies, Nathan's team doesn't just provide strategic advice. They also execute marketing strategies. This dual role allows them to be more involved and hands-on with their client's businesses. As Nathan explained, one of the key differences between hiring a fractional CMO and a traditional agency is the focus. A fractional CMO focuses on high-level strategic planning and identifying white space in the market. In contrast, agencies focus more on tactical execution based on the client's specific needs or ideas. When asked about growing his own business, Nathan acknowledged the challenge of finding time to work on the enterprise while being busy working on it. He revealed that most of his business comes from referrals, which he strategically cultivates through distribution partners. Nathan also mentioned the importance of content creation and being a guest on podcasts to increase visibility and generate leads. However, he avoids cold emailing due to the sensitivity of marketing services to such approaches. Instead, he encourages interested individuals to reach out to him directly.   Key Points from the Episode: Nathan Young's role as a fractional CMO and founder of Find Your Audience Difference between hiring a fractional CMO and hiring an agency Importance of supporting sales teams and increasing their productivity Content generation in successful B2B marketing Feasibility of generating leads within a short timeframe Importance of content creation and product-led growth models in marketing Strategic marketing approaches in the restaurant industry Challenges of growing a business and acquiring new clients Importance of content creation and being a guest on podcasts for visibility and lead generation Avoidance of cold emailing in marketing services   About Nathan Yeung: Nathan Yeung is a seasoned marketing strategist with a decade of experience specializing in B2B business consulting. He has a proven track record of constructing successful marketing teams and launching new products. Nathan's background spans marketing, finance, and management consulting, offering a unique perspective and comprehensive understanding of business operations. His innovative, data-driven marketing strategies, bolstered by a knack for creative problem-solving, have significantly amplified business growth for his clients. Known for his passion for delivering results and the ability to devise unconventional solutions, Nathan continually helps clients distinguish themselves in their industries. His contributions to the marketing world have garnered recognition from various organizations.   About Find Your Audience: Find Your Audience is your dedicated outsourced marketing team, specializing in personalized, performance-oriented strategies across Brandinga, Strategy, Creative Designs, Social Media Management, and CMO Services. The team fosters growth and transparency in daily marketing activities to meet your business needs. Core competencies include meticulous planning and execution in consulting and strategy, media buying via unconventional channels, brand management, and intuitive graphic design. Social media growth is also a key focus. The collective aim is to deliver practical, innovative marketing solutions that align with your brand's vision and objectives to successfully reach and engage your target audience.   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 Find Your Audience website at https://findyouraudience.online/ Check out Find Your Audience on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/find-your-audience-online/ Check out Nathan Yeung on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/yeungnathan/ Check out Nathan Yeung on Twitter at https://twitter.com/NY_Van 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 Chief Executive Officer, President & Founder of Curtis Leadership Consulting, Christina Curtis. Are you struggling to reach your full potential? Do you find yourself focusing on small failures rather than overall growth? Christina shares insights from successful individuals like Richard Branson and Olympic athletes to help people make daily choices that lead to exceptional outcomes. In a culture of busyness, it can be easy to put personal growth on the back burner. However, Christina emphasizes the importance of prioritizing personal growth over immediate payoffs. By making daily choices that align with our values and goals, we can achieve exceptional outcomes in all areas of our lives. Another daily choice for achieving exceptional outcomes is to prioritize time for reflection, reading, and creating new neural pathways in the brain. Successful individuals constantly refine their skills and adapt to new concepts and ideas.   About Christina Curtis: Christina is a globally recognized coach and organizational psychologist specializing in motivation and goal attainment. Serving high-achieving clients from entrepreneurs to Fortune 500 executives and Olympic athletes, she is among the top 2% of accredited Master Coaches worldwide. She contributes regularly to leading publications like Forbes and Harvard Business Review. Her innovative book, Choosing Greatness: An Evidence-Based Approach to Achieving Exceptional Outcomes, provides valuable insights into the decision-making processes of highly successful leaders and athletes. The book distinguishes between limiting habits and empowering choices, equipping readers with actionable personal and professional success strategies.   About Curtis Leadership Consulting: Curtis Leadership Coaching, founded by Master Business Coach Christina Curtis, uses a potent mix of neuroscience, psychology, and practical experience to accelerate its clients' personal and professional growth. Distinguished as part of the global top 1% of coaches, Curtis's firm specializes in executive coaching and leadership development, helping clients achieve breakthrough results. Underpinned by Christina's expertise in motivation and goal attainment, the firm utilizes cutting-edge tools and performance strategies. Its impactful work garners recognition in esteemed publications like Harvard Business Review and Forbes. Curtis Leadership Coaching innovates in the coaching industry, striving to propel its clients toward their highest potential.   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 Curtis Leadership Coaching website at https://curtisleadership.com/ Check out Curtis Leadership Coaching on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/curtisleadership/ Check out Christina Curtis on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinacurtisofficial/ Check out Christina Curtis on Twitter at https://twitter.com/curtis_coaching Check out Christina Curtis on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=christina%20curtis Check out Christina Curtis on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/christinacurtisofficial/ 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 Manager of CoachRoel Consulting LLC, Roel Sarmago. Coach Roel from Snowbird Investor recently shared insights beneficial for Canadians and foreign nationals venturing into real estate, especially in Florida. He emphasized the importance of proper asset structure to reduce tax implications and secure assets, suggesting avoidance of personal name use for property ownership. He recommends starting with short-term rentals, a mutually beneficial arrangement for newcomers. He urges investors to explore beyond typical tourist spots, eyeing potential growth markets. Regarding education, Coach Roel provides resources like free courses and webinars. Lastly, he encourages embracing competition, viewing it as a sign of high demand. His insights are tailored to aid investors in making well-informed decisions.   About Roel Sarmago: Roel Sarmago, a distinguished Financial Life Coach, was once trapped in the grueling world of financial consulting, experiencing high financial success and recognition but enduring extreme work pressures. Struggling with a profound imbalance in his work-life dynamics, he found himself on the brink of burnout at 36. Questioning his life trajectory, he envisioned a future inconsistent with his current path. He yearned for a different living where he could fulfill personal dreams, like spending three months in the Philippines, and enjoy quality time with his future children. His search for a solution birthed a financial escape plan, a transformative tool supported by his wife that liberated him from his day "prison." Following his departure from corporate life, Roel cultivated a new career as a Financial Life Coach. Merging his rich background in investment and CFP knowledge with his passion for life coaching, he guides others toward achieving their life goals, underpinned by solid financial plans.   About CoachRoel Consulting LLC: CoachRoel Consulting LLC empowers entrepreneurs to achieve personal and financial growth. The firm focuses on helping clients overcome barriers hindering their potential or progress. Its primary aim is to guide entrepreneurs to the next level in their professional journey, assisting them in making strategic and beneficial decisions that can lead to significant breakthroughs in their business. Under the guidance of Roel, an experienced financial life coach, the firm offers personalized strategies and support, ensuring clients are equipped with the tools necessary for success and the motivation and direction to utilize them effectively. Whether entrepreneurs feel stuck or ready to upscale their operations, Coach Roel is committed to driving their advancement.   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 CoachRoel Consulting LLC website at https://coachroel.com/coaching/ Check out CoachRoel Consulting LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/coachroel-consulting-llc/ Check out Roel Sarmago on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachroel/ Check out CoachRoel Consulting LLC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/CoachRoel/ Check out TeambuildersAgency on Twitter at https://twitter.com/roelsarmago 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 CEO & Owner of Free Time Solutions, Barry Coziahr. Barry Coziahr, owner of Free Time Solutions, shared some insights into virtual assistant (VA) staffing. Free Time Solutions stands out due to its comprehensive VA services, linking clients with suitable VAs and providing robust HR support, monitoring, and coaching for both parties involved. Distinctively from other platforms, Free Time Solutions offers a personalized hiring process, managing all stages and enhancing the likelihood of a good match. They extend their role to become a part of the client's team, ensuring the correct execution of tasks and providing accountability. Barry also emphasized the importance of AI tools and training for VAs. Although AI brings efficiency, it should complement rather than replace human creativity and personal touch. He suggests focusing on high ROI activities, advocating for personalized social media outreach and creating engaging content rather than sales pitches. This approach encourages genuine connections and networking.   About Barry Coziahr: Barry Coziahr is a well-regarded business consultant and trainer with a distinguished track record in small business growth. He has directly advised over 10,000 small business owners and delivered over 1,000 seminars nationwide. He focuses on actionable growth and marketing strategies substantiated by real-world examples and case studies. This approach has led to the successful expansion of numerous small businesses, authors, and nonprofits. Barry's unique skill lies in strategic advice and effective systems implementation. He assists companies in scaling up by establishing high-quality personnel structures and systems, ensuring the optimal utilization of resources. Barry Coziahr's contributions to the small business sector are considerable and instrumental in fostering growth and success.   About Free Time Solutions: Free Time Solutions is a professional organization providing expert virtual assistants trained to handle various business tasks. Their staff operates remotely, helping businesses manage crucial operations that can be delegated effectively. The services offered are comprehensive, from lead generation and social media management to telemarketing, project management, and event scheduling. They also cover bookkeeping, web design, administrative work, and customer service tasks, providing businesses with a broad spectrum of support options. The virtual assistants at Teambuilders Agency are not only proficient in their respective fields but also dedicated to delivering top-notch service remotely. This combination allows businesses to delegate essential but non-core tasks effectively, freeing up their in-house team to focus on strategic operations. The convenience and efficiency provided by Free Time Solutions make it a practical solution for businesses seeking to optimize their operational workflow and overall productivity.   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 Free Time Solutions website at https://www.teambuilders.agency/ Check out Free Time Solutions on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/teambuilders-agency/ Check out Free Time Solutions on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/freetimesolutionsstaffing/ Check out Free Time Solutions on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/freetime.solutions/ Check out Barry Coziahr on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fontanella-2992047/ Check out Barry Coziahr on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/booksbyfont/ Check out Barry Coziahr on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chris.fontanella.5/ Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time!   More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder of Encore Professionals Group, Chris Fontanella. Due to rising vendor management systems, Chris discussed the transformation of recruiting from a relational to a transactional sphere. He emphasized the importance of maintaining a relational component to find the perfect job fit. The attitude was another primary emphasis, with Chris urging the necessity of having the right mindset and the willingness to work hard to achieve one's goals. Ambition alone isn't enough; a relentless determination to bridge the gap between current standing and desired position is vital. Chris also pointed to the value of LinkedIn as a networking platform and connection to the marketplace. He cautioned against over-communication, encouraging balance to create meaningful connections. These strategies promote career growth and development, emphasizing the relational nature of professional success.   About Chris Fontanella: Chris Fontanella, the founder of Encore Professional Group, leverages his unique background in theology and staffing to offer specialized placement services for accounting and finance professionals. He graduated from Oral Roberts University with a BA in New Testament Theology, later acquiring a MA in Theological Studies from Fuller Theological Seminary. Transitioning from ministry to the staffing industry, Fontanella uses his eclectic experience to help individuals thrive in their careers. He is a published author, having penned three books, including "Against the Grain," "Jump-Start Your Career," and "Tune Up Your Career," which provide insightful tips for business and personal success. His firm stands out in the industry, reflecting his unconventional journey and keen understanding of the professional realm.   About Encore Professionals Group: Encore Professional Group is a distinguished firm known for its specialized consulting and executive search services in accounting, finance, audit, and information technology. The firm’s mission is to establish and nurture enduring relationships with candidates seeking career opportunities and clients needing tailored solutions. Encore Professional Group bridges the gap between professionals and companies by focusing on this dual mission, leveraging its industry-specific knowledge to create mutually beneficial partnerships. The group's commitment to long-term success and satisfaction sets it apart in the competitive staffing industry.   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 Encore Professionals Group website at https://encorepros.com/ Check out Chris Fontanella on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-fontanella-2992047/ Check out Chris Fontanella on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/booksbyfont/ Check out Chris Fontanella on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chris.fontanella.5/ 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 & President of SmartMoves, Barbara Spector. Barbara Spector, Founder and CEO of Smart Moves, provides astute insights on the dynamics of sales teams and business decision-making. A strong advocate against laying off salespeople, she emphasizes that sales teams form the revenue backbone of any organization, and maintaining their strength, especially amidst uncertain times, is vital. According to Barbara, an organization's cutback approach should be something other than revenue-centric but focus on individual performance metrics. By using comprehensive assessment tools, companies can identify high-potential salespeople who might not necessarily be the top performers but could be valuable assets in the long term. Barbara also brings attention to the shift in sales paradigms. The role of a salesperson has transformed from just being a product promoter to a value provider who creates urgency. This involves building strong relationships with potential clients, connecting emotionally, and functioning more as consultants than conventional salespeople.   About Barbara Spector: Barbara Spector is the author of "How to Hire a Rock Star Salesperson: Overcome the 8 Obstacles to Hiring Great Sales People." Her expertise lies in assisting sales teams from diverse industries, such as banking, high technology, and building products, in achieving substantial sales growth of at least 17% or more. Since 1997, her company Smart Moves Inc. has guided clients through a little-known but proven process that saves time and money and eliminates the uncertainty associated with driving reliable and escalating sales growth, even during challenging times. Barbara's blueprint enables clients to shift from a chaotic mindset to generating millions. With her proven process, executives and sales leaders can uncover solutions to overcome obstacles that hinder top-line revenue acceleration, improve their perspective, and develop effective strategies and action plans. Barbara's insightful comments inspire fresh perspectives on the most valuable asset in any company—the high-performing salespeople.   About SmartMoves, Inc: SmartMoves Inc. specializes in selecting, developing, and retaining employees who are passionate about their work and receive recognition and appreciation for their contributions to their employers. The company's primary focus is to provide invaluable insights into candidates, employees, organizations, and even customers, which would typically take significant time and resources to uncover. By leveraging these insights, Smart Moves Inc. enables organizations to save substantial amounts of time and millions of dollars that would have otherwise been wasted due to limited information. The ultimate goal of Smart Moves Inc. is to help organizations become "Employers of Choice," joining the ranks of a select few who are recognized for their exceptional employment practices. With Smart Moves Inc.'s services, organizations can better understand their workforce, make informed decisions regarding employee selection and development, and create a work environment that fosters employee satisfaction and engagement. Through their expertise, Smart Moves Inc. empowers companies to maximize their human capital and create a positive and productive workplace culture.   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 SmartMoves, Inc. website at https://www.amarketingexpert.com/ Check out SmartMoves, Inc on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/smartmoves-inc./ Check out SmartMoves, Inc on Facebook at https://facebook/smartmovesinc Check out SmartMoves, Inc on Twitter at https://twitter.com/SmartMovesInc Check out Barbara Spector on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/barbaraspector/ Check out Barbara Spector on Instagram at https://instagram.com/barabarella_906 Check out Barbara Spector on Twitter at https://twitter.com/barbaraspector 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.