The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

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.  

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Book Marketing & Business Marketing Specialist of Author Marketing Experts, Penny Sansevieri. Penny C. Sansevieri, founder and CEO of Author Marketing Experts, shared insightful strategies for effective book marketing. She emphasized the importance of targeting your core base - your dedicated followers. They can become 'superfans' and enhance your book's visibility by leveraging their loyalty. Penny also championed the benefits of podcasts and collaborations with influencers, underlining their roles in message refinement and audience diversification. However, she cautioned authors to focus on influencers who are relevant to their target readers rather than concentrating on celebrity status. She underlined the significance of micro-influencers with a smaller follower count but a highly engaged and relevant audience. Penny shared a case study of a pregnancy book, where a micro-influencer focusing on childbirth was more impactful than a celebrity influencer.   About Penny Sansevieri: Penny C. Sansevieri is an accomplished and internationally recognized figure in the publishing industry. As the Founder and CEO of Author Marketing Experts, Inc., she has made significant contributions to book marketing and media relations. With her expertise and experience, she has helped numerous authors achieve success in the competitive publishing world. In addition to her role as a CEO, Penny also serves as an Adjunct Professor at NYU, where she imparts her knowledge on self-publishing to aspiring authors. Her teachings provide invaluable insights into the intricacies of the publishing process. Penny's impressive literary accomplishments include authoring eighteen books, such as "From Book to Bestseller," "How to Sell Your Books by the Truckload on Amazon," "Revise and Re-Release Your Book," and "5 Minute Book Marketing." Her books have garnered widespread acclaim and have topped prestigious bestseller lists, including those of the New York Times, USA Today, and the Wall Street Journal. Penny's dedication to helping authors succeed, her innovative Amazon Optimization programs, and her recognition as one of the top influencers of 2019 by New York Metropolitan Magazine has solidified her position as a highly respected and influential figure in the publishing industry.   About Author Marketing Experts: Author Marketing Experts, Inc. was founded to provide authors with comprehensive support and understanding of the publishing industry. Penny C. Sansevieri, an author, established the company to offer services tailored to authors' specific needs and desires. Drawing from her own experiences as a writer, Penny recognized the importance of having a marketing and promotion partner who truly understands the challenges and aspirations of authors. Through Author Marketing Experts, Inc., she sought to create a company that would guide authors through the intricacies of the publishing journey. The company emphasizes the value of enjoying the process and journey of being an author while instilling the importance of persistence. Penny encourages authors to embrace and love their books, as that passion and belief are fundamental in capturing the attention and interest of readers. Author Marketing Experts, Inc. provides services and expertise to help authors achieve their goals. From book marketing and media relations to innovative Amazon Optimization programs, the company is dedicated to supporting authors in their pursuit of success. Combining Penny's firsthand knowledge as an author with a deep understanding of the publishing landscape, Author Marketing Experts, Inc. has become a trusted resource for authors seeking effective and personalized marketing strategies.   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 Author Marketing Experts, Inc website at https://www.amarketingexpert.com/ Check out Penny Sansevieri on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/therealbookgal/ Check out Penny Sansevieri on Instagram at https://instagram.com/therealbookgal Check out Penny Sansevieri on Twitter at https://twitter.com/bookgal Check out Penny Sansevieri on Facebook at https://facebook.com/therealbookgal 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 Consultant, Coach & Speaker of Corene Phelps Coaching & Consulting, Corene Phelps. Corene Phelps, the founder of Corene Phelps Coaching and Consulting, a motivational speaker, and a hypnotherapist, delved into the world of hypnotherapy and its remarkable ability to help high performers and business owners overcome limitations and reach their highest potential. Corene clarified common misconceptions about hypnotherapy, emphasizing that it is not about mind control but rather a tool for relaxation and accessing our inner truth. She explained her approach of using therapeutic questioning and guided sessions to help clients identify and overcome mental barriers. Additionally, she highlighted the power of visualization and the creation of new neural pathways in the brain through hypnotherapy, showcasing the mind's capacity to reshape reality and unlock true potential. One particularly resonated topic was Corene's discussion on money blocks and people's emotional attachment to money. She stressed that improving our relationship with money is attainable for everyone, addressing issues such as self-worth, abundance, and the belief that earning money must be difficult. Individuals can transform their financial lives by upgrading old beliefs and patterns. Phelps shared inspiring success stories of individuals who have overcome mindset blocks and are now living up to their full potential on her "Super Expander Podcast." Witnessing others achieve what we aspire to do can serve as a powerful motivator for taking action.   About Corene Phelps: Corene Phelps is a Washingtonian entrepreneur and growth advisor who specializes in helping leaders and business owners achieve their full potential. Through her performance training methodology, Corene empowers both leaders and teams to drive strategic priorities and implement tactics in a coordinated and optimized manner. She offers a unique individual mastermind program that combines mindset training with Hypnobreathwork, a technique that combines hypnotherapy and breathwork to enhance personal development. With a diverse background, Corene has gained experience in various industries, including healthcare, wellness, fitness, real estate, and mobile/direct-to-consumer technology. Her expertise allows her to provide valuable insights and guidance to individuals and businesses operating in these sectors. By leveraging her extensive knowledge and practical methods, Corene Phelps supports her clients in maximizing their performance, improving their leadership skills, and unlocking their full potential. Her holistic approach blends mindset training, strategic thinking, and practical implementation, enabling individuals and teams to thrive in their respective fields.   About Corene Phelps Coaching & Consulting: Corene Phelps Coaching & Consulting is a professional service firm founded by Corene Phelps, an experienced entrepreneur and growth advisor. The company provides coaching and consulting services to leaders and business owners, helping them unlock their potential and achieve their goals. Corene Phelps Coaching & Consulting empowers individuals and teams to drive strategic priorities and implement tactical solutions in a coordinated and optimized manner through a performance training methodology. With a diverse background in industries such as healthcare, wellness, fitness, real estate, and mobile/direct-to-consumer technology, Corene Phelps brings valuable expertise to her coaching and consulting services. She combines her knowledge, practical experience, and strategic thinking to provide tailored guidance and support to clients, helping them maximize their performance, enhance their leadership skills, and achieve long-term 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 Corene Phelps Coaching & Consulting website at https://corene-phelps.com Check out Corene Phelps on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/corene-phelps/ Check out Corene Phelps on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/corene.phelps 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 Consultant, Coach & Speaker, Shannon DeSouza. Shannon underscored the significance of delivering value and fostering trust among our target audience, alerting us to a prevalent mistake many make - having an obsessive focus on sales which results in overwhelming our audience with incessant, desperate promotional pitches. Instead, she encourages an approach that revolutionizes the approach to sales. She recommends that, while undeniably important, sales shouldn't be the sole focus. Tailoring messages to connect with the audience's issues, and demonstrating how your products or services can genuinely help them, is vital in forging a more profound relationship. Also, humanizing yourselves in content plays an instrumental role. It's all about showing your authentic self, allowing your audience to connect with you personally, and fostering genuine relationships built on trust. Storytelling is a potent tool in this strategy, a mechanism for creating strong bonds with your audience. Sharing narratives that your audience can relate to fosters empathy and understanding, setting the groundwork for lasting relationships.   About Shannon DeSouza: Shannon is an accomplished entrepreneur and sales expert who has made significant contributions to the software and digital marketing industries. With a master's degree, she began her career as an Account Manager and steadily climbed the corporate ladder to eventually become the VP of Sales & Marketing. Shannon's life took a transformative turn when her husband received a headhunting opportunity, prompting them to relocate from Toronto to Vancouver. During this time, she ventured into the online realm and established herself as a digital marketing strategist, founding her own successful digital marketing agency. Over the past eight years, Shannon has worked with a diverse portfolio of over 350 clients, ranging from startups to multimillion-dollar enterprises. As an online sales coach, she now specializes in helping her high-ticket clients achieve long-term financial success by aligning their target audience, offers, and messaging using her innovative "Consistent Client Super Funnel" method. Shannon's expertise, entrepreneurial spirit, and dedication to helping others achieve generational wealth have positioned her as a respected figure in online sales and digital 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 Shannon DeSouza website at https://www.shannondesouza.com/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonadesouza/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/the.shannon.desouza/ Check out Shannon DeSouza on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/shannon.desouza 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 The Challenge Champion, Chris Colt. Chris Colt, reveals how challenges can revolutionize your business. By breaking down complex ideas into manageable steps, these challenges enable participants to achieve small daily victories and breakthroughs. The outcome? A surge in confidence and motivation to continue on the path to success. Here's the intriguing part: Chris offers his challenges at a fee of $100, granting participants access to valuable frameworks and tools. But wait, there's more! He also presents a VIP option for $300, which includes personalized one-on-one sessions with him. A truly premium experience, wouldn't you agree? However, it's important to note that the success of a challenge isn't solely dependent on the size of the audience. Even with a modest participation of 10-25 individuals, high conversion rates can be achieved by targeting the right audience. Quality triumphs over quantity in this case. Chris also imparts invaluable advice on maintaining momentum and flow during and after the challenge. By eliminating unnecessary fluff and condensing content into concise bursts, he ensures that participants derive maximum value from their time. This keeps them in an active state and facilitates more efficient goal achievement.   About Chris Colt: Chris Colt, a visionary in community-building, is dedicated to empowering individuals and organizations to create missions that make a tangible difference. As the founder of The Challenge Champion™ Accelerator, he has made it his mission to transform how service-based entrepreneurs engage their clients. By turning strangers into loyal customers, Chris' unique strategies have revolutionized the traditional business model. Drawing on his 25-year sales expertise, he knows how to foster mutually beneficial relationships. He has created proprietary frameworks to facilitate better audience service, simultaneously driving sales at a faster pace. Chris' strategies embody a win-win philosophy that aligns the interests of both businesses and their customers. Inspiration for his distinctive approach to community-building comes from an unusual source – his love for endurance cycling. His experience in the sport, particularly his successful completion of the Leadville 100, one of the most challenging mountain bike races globally, has gifted him the ability to design exciting and enjoyable challenges that resonate with clients. He has translated the tenacity, discipline, and motivation required in endurance cycling into business strategies that effectively engage and retain customers.   About The Challenge Champion: The Challenge Champion™ Academy is a transformative platform to bolster brand authority and community engagement. It equips entrepreneurs, thought leaders, and businesses with a proven framework to run successful challenges, create a consistent stream of new clients, and build stronger audience connections. The Academy's unique approach emphasizes experiential learning over traditional methods like webinars and content downloads. Instead of being taught, the audience gets a mini-coaching experience with a taste of working directly with you. This method fosters a deeper bond and allows potential clients to witness firsthand what it's like to collaborate before investing. Moreover, the Academy helps cultivate a vibrant community by bringing together like-minded individuals eager for change. You quickly ascend as a leader in your niche, generate predictable revenue, and effortlessly enhance your credibility.   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 Challenge Champion™ Academy website at https://www.thechallengechampion.com/ Check out The Challenge Champion™ Academy on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/company/thechallengechampion/ Check out Chris Colt on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscolt-thechallengechampion/ Check out Chris Colt on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/chriscolt360/ Check out Chris Colt on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/chris.colt.18/ Check out Chris Colt on Twitter at https://twitter.com/ChrisColt10 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 Business Coach, Speaker & Founder of Jess Stewart LLC, Jess Stewart.   Jess Stewart, a strategic business guide based in Texas, talked about her mission to help leadership teams and companies achieve their full potential. Jess offers valuable insights and practical tips on scaling and executing business strategies. But Jess doesn't just identify the problem; she also offers a solution. She conducts intensive and engaging sessions with the leadership team when working with clients. These sessions involve breaking down the company, identifying gaps, and creating a customized approach based on best business practices. Jess also holds quarterly sessions to ensure accountability and progress toward the annual plan. In addition to her work with leadership teams, Jess has expanded her offers. She now provides a "climb" program, where she closely collaborates with leadership teams. She has also started mastermind programs for ascending leaders not part of her teams. These programs involve monthly Zoom meetings, where Jess leads content and facilitates discussions among participants across the United States.   About Jessica Stewart: Jess is a fearless and highly accomplished leadership team coach, strategic advisor, and business guide with a lifetime of hard-won successes under her belt. Raised by a Marine Corps pilot on a cattle operation in the mountains, Jess learned the keys to running an entrepreneurial company. Grit, hard work, and no complaining infused a work ethic in Jess that she lives and breathes today. After college, Jess became a teacher. After a relocation with her husband to a city with no teaching jobs, Jess decided to start a medical billing business from her kitchen table with two young children under her feet. Though she knew nothing about medical billing, the lessons learned from her dad “stuck.” Failure has never been an option for Jess. Jess worked every job inside her company, grew it to two US locations, and an international division. The story was not all roses. Hitting the ceiling was not an unfamiliar feeling for Jess. These painful times taught her to assemble a leadership team and company that operated on world-class systems and processes. When the unexpected opportunity for exit came, she could say yes! Today, Jess is devoted to helping other entrepreneurs, leadership teams and companies run better businesses and live better lives. Jess lives in Texas with her husband Murt, and two children Cora and Murt V.   About Jess Stewart LLC: Jess Stewart LLC is a firm that believes in the potential of companies to reach their biggest goals and focuses on equipping top leadership with the necessary guidance to steer growth. Leveraging first-hand experience, the firm provides professional consulting services designed to help navigate the complexities of business expansion. It acknowledges the importance of experienced leadership in company development and tailors its approach to ensure client success. Jess Stewart LLC embodies the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to business excellence, making it a go-to resource for companies aiming to excel in their industry. The ultimate mission is to facilitate growth and transformation for its clients through strategic leadership support.   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 Jess Stewart LLC website at https://www.jess-stewart.com/ Check out Jess Stewart LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/jess-stewart-llc/ Check out Jess Stewart LLC on Instagram at https://instagram.com/jessstewartllc Check out Jess Stewart LLC on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/jessstewartllc/ Check out Jessica Stewart on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-stewart-4088b416/ 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.