

The Thoughtful Entrepreneur
Josh Elledge of UpMyInfluence.com
You’re gonna love this DAILY, commercial-free entrepreneur spotlight show. We feature CEOs and founders of 6-9 figure B2B companies. Agencies, coaches, consultants, and other leaders share not only their success stories - but their advice for business leaders focused on business growth.
You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute.
On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts.
We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/
You’re going to hear real stories from real people all in 15-25 minutes time - perfect for your commute.
On this podcast, your host, Josh Elledge encourages entrepreneurs to share not only their expertise but their stories and their hearts.
We believe that every person has a unique message which can positively impact the world. Even YOU! If you’d like to be featured on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, apply here: https://UpMyInfluence.com/guest/
Episodes
Mentioned books

Apr 9, 2023 • 28min
1510 – Mental Health in Business with Malorie Nicole
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Executive Performance Coach, Malorie Nicole.
Malorie's coaching services can help individuals overcome their limiting beliefs, reduce stress, and improve their overall well-being, leading to greater success in their personal and professional lives. Her focus on mental and emotional wellness is especially helpful for those in leadership roles who face significant stress and burnout challenges.
Malorie's formula has been developed through years of experience working with hundreds of clients and thousands of coaching hours, resulting in rapid success for her clients. Personalization is a key aspect of her coaching, where she helps clients identify their strengths and weaknesses and develop strategies for growth and improvement.
About Malorie Nicole: Malorie is a coach who provides her clients with tools and guidance to help them achieve success and fulfilment in their personal and professional lives. Whether you are a solopreneur earning six figures or a business owner with a team earning eight figures, Malorie works with you to keep your mind organized, your energy balanced, and your emotional wellness fulfilled. She believes that when you feel mentally and emotionally, you are more likely to succeed in your business.
Malorie's website showcases the results that her clients have achieved through her coaching. She helps her clients identify the areas they must focus on to reach the next level of success and fulfilment. Malorie is passionate about helping driven professionals grow and reach their potential, and her formula has been tested through hundreds of clients and thousands of coaching hours.
Her coaching can be especially beneficial for leadership roles, where problem-solving skills and a clear mindset are essential. Working with Malorie, clients can gain clarity, reduce stress, and improve performance. They also learn to manage their time and energy more effectively, which can lead to greater success and fulfilment.
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 Malorie Nicole’s website at https://malorie-nicole.com/
Check out Malorie Nicole on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/malorie-nicole-5b132894/
Check out Malorie Nicole on Instagram at
https://www.instagram.com/malorienicoleee/
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Apr 8, 2023 • 21min
1509 – Making The Entrepreneur Journey Worth it with Arkona’s Ryan Tansom
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Partner and Founder of Arkona, Ryan Tansom.
Connecting with Ryan Tansom offers entrepreneurs valuable insights from his expertise in business strategy, operations, and finance. Utilizing his Intentional Growth™ Framework, you can learn to achieve sustainable growth, focusing on a clear end goal. This all-encompassing framework highlights educational training, fractional CFO services, and strategic planning, providing a well-rounded approach to business development.
By engaging with Ryan, you can access his extensive network of accomplished entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and experts. This connection may lead to collaboration, partnerships, and knowledge-sharing opportunities, significantly contributing to your business's success.
About Ryan Tansom: He started his entrepreneurial career at his family business where he was the Executive VP and responsible for the strategic, operational, and financial strategy of the $21 Million company. Ryan helped turn the company around and bring intentional focus to the right strategies which enabled it to be sold for 8 figures to a local competitor in 2014.
Ryan took his experience and founded Arkona to create the Intentional Growth™ Framework which helps owners grow the value of their company with the end in mind through educational training, fractional CFO services and strategic planning.
Ryan also hosts the popular Intentional Growth™ podcast that has 250+ episodes, 360k+ downloads and guests like Gino Wickman, John Warrillow, and the editors of HBR and Inc. Magazine.
About Arkona: Arkona is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses' value with a clear end goal in mind. They offer a range of services, including educational training, fractional CFO services, and strategic planning, to support informed financial decision-making, optimized performance, and lasting industry impact.
Educational resources cover business valuation, strategic planning, and financial management, equipping entrepreneurs with necessary knowledge. Arkona provides courses, workshops, and webinars to cater to different learning preferences. Experienced fractional CFOs offer personalized financial advice and support, empowering entrepreneurs to manage resources, optimize cash flow, and identify growth opportunities.
Arkona's strategic planning services develop tailored plans aligned with clients' specific objectives and goals, focusing on key performance indicators and actionable strategies to achieve sustainable growth and increased value.
By emphasizing a long-term perspective and considering desired exit strategies, Arkona encourages entrepreneurs to envision their end game and make strategic decisions throughout their businesses' life, helping clients proactively manage risks, capitalize on opportunities, and maximize company value.
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 Arkona website at https://tenxpr.com/
Check out Arkona on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tenxpr/
Check out Arkona on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/Arkona-LLC-1419696711503574
Check out Ryan Tansom on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-tansom-4a440710/
Check out Ryan Tansom on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/RyanTansom
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.

Apr 7, 2023 • 17min
1508 – The Authority of Broadcast TV with TenXPR’s Samantha Jacobson
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO and Founder of TenXPR, Samantha Jacobson.
Connecting with Samantha Jacobson can be incredibly beneficial for those seeking to elevate their brand or message on TV, streaming platforms, or podcasts. As an award-winning journalist and communications expert with over two decades of experience, Samantha has the expertise to help her clients succeed in the competitive media landscape.
Samantha's extensive experience in booking experts and brands on various media platforms makes her a valuable asset for clients looking to expand their reach and visibility. She understands what makes a compelling story and can tailor a message for maximum impact.
Her dedication to authenticity, relationship-building, and exceptional client service sets Samantha apart. She takes the time to listen and understand each client's unique needs and aspirations, working closely with them to develop a tailored PR strategy that aligns with their brand, values, and objectives. Her commitment to building trust and communication with clients empowers them to present their authentic selves confidently on television and beyond.
About Samantha Jacobson: Samantha Jacobson is an award-winning journalist with an extensive background in communications and public relations. She specializes in booking experts and brands on TV, streaming platforms, and podcasts.
Samantha spent more than twenty years booking for CBS News, CNN, Entertainment Tonight, The Talk, and many other popular shows. Samantha has been nominated for four Emmys and was part of the team that won an Edward R. Murrow Award for journalism.
Prior to founding TENXPR, Samantha was vice president of public relations and events for the iconic home furnishing brand Mitchell Gold + Bob Williams. Placements include multi-page spreads in the Washington Post, AD, Elle Decor, and many others.
About TenXPR: At TenXPR, authenticity is a fundamental value that guides their approach to public relations. They believe that individuals and organizations who stay true to their unique abilities and values are more likely to achieve success and positive recognition. As an expert in your industry, you possess a wealth of knowledge and talents that are essential to your business and community. You deserve to have a wider audience to share your expertise and make a positive impact!
When you book your segment with TenXPR, their team is dedicated to helping you prepare and deliver your message with confidence and authenticity. They understand that appearing on TV can be a daunting task, but they are there to provide you with support and resources you need to succeed. Whether you need help with messaging, media training, or any other aspect of your TV appearance, TenXPR is committed to helping you shine.
At TenXPR, they strive to build strong relationships with their clients based on trust, communication, and results. They understand that each client has unique goals, challenges, and strengths, and they take the time to listen and understand your needs and aspirations. By working closely with you, they can develop a tailored PR strategy that aligns with your values, brand, and objectives.
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 TenXPR website at https://tenxpr.com/
Check out TenXPR on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tenxpr/
Check out Ryan TenXPR on Instagram at
https://www.instagram.com/tenxpr_/
Check out Samantha Jacobson on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/public-relations-specialist/
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.

Apr 6, 2023 • 20min
1507 – How Advertising Works Today with Radical’s Ryan Alford
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO and Founder of Radical, Ryan Alford.
Working with Ryan Alford and Radical offers brands a unique opportunity to benefit from Alford's innovative and strategic approach to marketing. With his diverse range of skills and expertise, Alford can develop highly personalized and targeted marketing strategies that deliver results. He is not afraid to explore new and emerging marketing channels and technologies, which allows him to respond quickly to the changing market conditions and consumer behaviors. Alford's honesty and candor ensure that clients receive personalized attention and high-quality services tailored to their specific needs.
About Ryan Alford: Ryan is an accomplished CEO and Founder of Radical, who has made significant contributions to advertising, marketing, and business consulting over the past two decades. With his innovative ideas and a wealth of experience, Alford has established himself as a true hybrid marketer who is capable of solving global challenges and driving bottom-line revenue for his clients.
Alford is known for his unique ability to bridge the analog/digital/social gap for senior executives and then build plans that can deliver real results. He has earned a reputation for his honesty and sincerity, as he is not afraid to speak his mind and provide honest feedback, even if it means telling clients that their ideas or strategies need improvement. He is a results-driven individual who focuses on delivering massive results for businesses requiring a fresh perspective and assistance navigating the new social/digital landscape.
Alford's approach to business is highly strategic, and he always seeks to align his clients' marketing and business objectives to drive bottom-line revenue. He has a track record of delivering impressive results, and his success has earned him a reputation as a highly respected and sought-after CEO and Founder.
About Radical: Radical marketing is an innovative approach that emphasizes the importance of creativity and flexibility in achieving business goals. It involves developing strategies that are highly adaptable to changing market trends and consumer behaviors. The hybrid marketer is a key component of this approach, as they possess a unique skill set that combines strategic thinking and creative problem-solving.
The hybrid marketer must have a thorough understanding of the business goals and the brand's unique identity. They must be able to develop a comprehensive marketing strategy that is highly targeted and personalized to the needs of the audience. They must also be able to identify new and emerging marketing channels and technologies which can be used to increase brand visibility and engagement.
Radical marketing is all about speed and agility. Brands must be able to respond quickly to changing market conditions and consumer behaviors. The hybrid marketer must be able to work in an environment that demands constant adaptation and flexibility. They must be able to analyze data quickly, make informed decisions, and execute campaigns in a timely and effective manner.
Tweetable Moments:
02:47 - “I think they've learned that you have two options with content these days. You either entertain or you educate.”
02:55 - “People think with their head and they buy with their heart.”
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 Radical website at https://www.radical.company/
Check out Radical on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/radicalcompany/
Check out Ryan Alford on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-alford/
Check out Ryan Alford on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/jryanalford
Check out Ryan Alford on Instagram at
https://www.instagram.com/ryanalford/
Check out Ryan Alford on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/alford.ryan
Check out Ryan Alford on TikTok at https://www.tiktok.com/@ryan.alford
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.

Apr 5, 2023 • 21min
1506 – Sales Mercenaries with Konsyg’s William Gilchrist
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO and Founder of Konsyg, William Gilchrist.
Connecting with William, the CEO and founder of Konsyg, can offer you significant benefits. William has over 15 years of experience in global technology sales and a strong academic background, making him an expert in global markets and cultures. He has a track record of creating successful startups and managing sales operations, and Konsyg offers a range of sales services, including Revenue Generation, Sales Consulting, Recruitment, Lead Generation, and Sales Training.
By connecting with William and Konsyg, you can access an experienced and skilled sales professional and a suite of services to optimize your business operations and achieve your sales goals more efficiently and effectively.
About William Gilchrist: William has accumulated over 15 years of experience in technology sales throughout North America, Europe, Middle-East and Asia-Pacific. He holds a Bachelors of Arts (B.A.) in International Relations from Bowdoin College, TEFL Certification from GLV Zhuhai / 平和英语学 院, Mandarin certification from Cornell University and another Mandarin certification from Beijing University / 北京大学.
William began his career within the corporate sector of Shanghai as a Media Relations Manager for Wai White Dragon, a publication for Shanghai's elite. William then returned to the United States to work in school administration as Director of Admissions and College Planning at Hales Franciscan High School in Chicago Illinois.
He was hired to rebuild the admissions department by devising a plan to increase enrollment numbers among a unique demographic within the Chicago-land area. William then returned to Asia and worked in Business Development in Singapore for TSL Marketing. At TSL, WIlliam ran multiple lead generation campaigns in both English and Mandarin for top-tier tech firms throughout J-APAC. He then moved to a position as Regional New Business Sales Manager for Google, Asia-Pacific. William has also founded and facilitated internal sales training courses for multiple departments.
William transitioned to the APAC Knowledge Manager role where he focused on training and quality systems management for regional and global projects. William then ventured outside of Google to build and direct the Outbound Sales Teams for TradeGecko (QuickBooks Acquired) as Director, and then as Vice President for MyDoc, both Singapore-based startups. William is currently the Founder of Konsyg and runs an end to end sales operation for Enterprises and SMEs globally. Salesman, defined.
About Konsyg: Konsyg is a global provider of on-demand sales services for B2B tech companies. They offer a solution that allows leaders to concentrate on the core business while they manage their sales functions. Their services aim to maximize the return on investment (ROI), engage new markets, and create footholds for long-term multi-regional success.
Konsyg's focus is to increase the local product adoption of Global technology while also assisting in selling technologies globally, with a particular emphasis on the US, Europe, South America, and throughout Asia-Pacific.
Konsyg provides its clients with various sales services, including Revenue Generation, Full Sales Functions, Sales Consulting, Risk Management, Country Setup, Recruitment, Lead Generation, and Sales Management, including KPI and Activity Tracking, Executive Coaching, and Sales Training. Konsyg's clients can achieve their sales goals efficiently and effectively by utilizing these services.
In today's competitive business landscape, outsourcing sales functions can be an intelligent move for B2B tech companies. Konsyg's on-demand sales services offer a viable solution for businesses looking to increase sales, expand into new markets, and achieve long-term success. With their proven track record of success and a range of services tailored to meet their clients' needs, Konsyg is a reliable partner for B2B tech companies looking to optimize their sales operations.
Tweetable Moments:
04:30 - “When it comes to sales, suddenly, everybody is becoming a specialist. They have their own opinions. They watched The Wolf of Wall Street or whatever.”
08:46 - “What we have found is that when companies spend anywhere between 5000 USD and above, they want to talk to somebody. If they're spending about $20,000, they need a constant person that they can always go back to and talk to consistently.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out Konsygl website at https://www.konsyg.com/
Check out Konsyg on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/konsyg/
Check out Konsyg on Twitter at https://twitter.com/konsyg?lang=en
Check out Konsyg on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Konsyg/
Check out William Gilchrist on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamgilchristkonsyg/
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.

Apr 4, 2023 • 19min
1505 – Problem Focused with Author Brendan Dell
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the President of Brendandell, Brendan Dell.
Connecting with Brendan Dell can offer you a wealth of benefits. As a positioning and messaging expert, Brendan has worked with some of the biggest names in the technology industry, helping them develop effective marketing strategies that set them apart. By connecting with Brendan, you can tap into his expertise to improve your messaging and positioning, ultimately helping to increase sales and drive growth.
If you are an entrepreneur seeking funding for your business, Brendan's course, "$1B Pitch," can offer you practical advice on how to craft a winning pitch that will capture the attention of investors. The course covers the key elements critical to a successful pitch, including how to tell a compelling story, build a strong team, and demonstrate market fit.
About Brendan Dell: Brendan is a positioning and messaging expert who has worked with some of the top technology brands in the industry. His impressive client list includes well-known names such as Expedia, ADP, HP, Y Combinator, and over 99 portfolio companies. With his vast experience and expertise, Brendan has become a trusted advisor to many companies seeking to improve their marketing strategies and messaging.
In his book, "The 12 Immutable Laws of High-Impact Messaging," Brendan shares his rules for standing out in crowded markets. This book is a must-read for anyone looking to make an impact in today's competitive business landscape. Brendan's new course, "$1B Pitch," examines the eight elements of a successful $1B pitch. This course is a valuable resource for anyone looking to create a winning pitch and secure funding for their business.
About Brendandell: Brendandell is a company that specializes in partnering with B2B CMOs to help create impactful marketing campaigns and departments. Their expertise and experience have earned them a reputation for being leaders in their field, with a roster of clients including some of the industry's biggest names. Some of their past and present clients include Cvent, which Deloitte has recognized as one of the Fast 500 companies, and TOPO, a leading B2B analyst firm. They have also worked with UserTesting, which Deloitte recognized as one of the Technology Fast 500 companies, and Nuance, a Fortune 1000 company.
Other notable clients of Brendandell include Panasonic, SAP, Brother, Act-On Software, MedeAnalytics, and Cambia Health Solutions, among others. They have worked with over 100 clients, each benefiting from the company's expertise and commitment to delivering top-notch marketing solutions.
If you are a B2B CMO looking to take your marketing campaigns to the next level, Brendandell is a company that you should consider. Their vast experience and impressive track record make them a reliable partner who can help you achieve your goals and take your business to new heights.
Tweetable Moments:
02:36 - “So the first thing that every company should do, and the mistake that folks often make is that most companies start and go.”
06:04 - “In order to tell that story, you need to have clarity of the problem, clarity of the solution, and clarity of the unique mechanism in which you deliver that solution.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out Brendandell website at https://www.brendandell.com/
Check out Brendan Dell on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendandell/
Check out Brendan Dell on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/DellBrendan
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.

Apr 3, 2023 • 20min
1504 – Every Household in The US Should Know About This with Asteya’s Hadi Radwan
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Venture Builder and Insurtech Expert of Asteya, Hadi Radwan.
As a venture builder and serial entrepreneur, Hadi specializes in new market entry, multiple discipline leadership roles, growth hacking, and capital raising. This means he is able to help startups navigate the challenges of getting their business off the ground, securing funding, and building a successful growth strategy.
Hadi is alsso an insurtech expert and aAco-founder of Asteya, an innovative insurance company,so he deeply understands the insurance industry and how it's evolving. If you're a startup looking to break into the insurance industry, Hadi's expertise can tremendously help you navigate the complex landscape.
About Hadi Radwan: Global executive and dynamic leader with 15 years experience in the management, creation, and development of high growth online start-ups and complex, matrixed organizations, who brings functional depth through hands-on experience across product management and design, operations, technology, distribution, marketing, and strategic visioning.
Hadi Radwan is a serial entrepreneur, venture builder, and insurtech expert. He is the Co-Founder of Asteya, an insurance company that aims to make income insurance accessible to everyone regardless of gender, income, or age.
Hadi has over 15 years of experience in managing, creating, and developing growth strategies for start-ups and large organizations. As a venture builder, Hadi specializes in new market entry, multiple discipline leadership roles, growth hacking, and capital raising.
About Asteya: At Asteya, they understand that your time is valuable, and that's why they've built a user-friendly platform that makes income insurance easy and hassle-free. With Asteya, you can focus on your business and personal life, knowing you have a safety net if the unexpected happens.
Life can be unpredictable, sometimes impacting our health and well-being. That's why Asteya offers income insurance to give you peace of mind. Their transparent coverage is tailored to your specific lifestyle and needs, so you can be confident that your quality of life is secure.
At Asteya, they know that income insurance isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. They work with you to create a personalized coverage plan that meets your unique circumstances. Whether you're a freelancer, a small business owner, or a busy professional, they have the expertise and experience to create a plan that fits your needs.
Asteya is committed to providing you with the most innovative, user-friendly income insurance. Be sure to protect your financial future - sign up with Asteya today and let them help you focus on what matters most.
Tweetable Moments:
01:23 - “More than 50% of the U.S. Population are living paycheck to paycheck.”
14:38 - “Income is your most important asset. As you protect your brain, your health, you need to protect your income.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out Asteya website at https://www.asteya.world/
Check out Hadi Radwan on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/hadiradwan/
Check out Hadi Radwan on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/hradwan001
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.

Apr 2, 2023 • 16min
1503 – What an Entrepreneur is with scapr’s Susan Carol
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of Susan Carol Creative, Susan Carol.
Connecting with Susan Carol, founder of Susan Carol Creative, can offer numerous benefits for anyone looking to improve their public relations and marketing efforts. With over 33 years of experience in the industry, Susan has developed a deep understanding of what works and what doesn't when it comes to public relations and marketing. She has assembled a talented team of professionals who excel in various areas, from media relations and new media to video, digital marketing, and creative ideas. The team is committed to providing exceptional service to every client, listening to their needs, and developing tailored strategies that get results. They are known for their innovative approach to PR and marketing, focusing on producing immediate media hits desired by clients and adapting their practices as they go.
About Susan Carol: She is a true trailblazer in the world of public relations. With over 33 years of experience, she has built a thriving agency specializing in three core markets and retained clients and staff for decades. What sets Susan apart from other PR professionals is her innovative approach. Rather than following the standard PR template used by many firms in the early 1990s, she focused on producing immediate media hits desired by clients. This allowed her agency to assess client needs as they developed story content and adapt practices accordingly, leading to great success.
Susan's knack for identifying client needs also extends to her business practices. She could offer fair rates to her clients and associates by billing from a small college town while working with clients based in larger cities with high PR agency rates. This allowed her agency to maintain a healthy profit margin and grow and market. She is a true inspiration to anyone looking to build a successful business. She has shown that success comes from putting clients first, staying adaptable to changes in the industry, and balancing fair rates with a healthy profit margin.
About Susan Carol Creative: Susan Carol Creative is not just any public relations agency. It is a team of award-winning professionals who excel in public relations, marketing, media, web development, design, writing, and production management. This diverse group of talented individuals brings a wealth of experience and expertise, making them a formidable force in the industry. At the core of Susan Carol Creative's success is its team of seasoned professionals and motivated self-starters. These individuals have a proven track record of taking on projects and running with them, coordinating with clients, and managing project costs easily. Their team members have held management positions for corporations, trade associations, and non-profits, giving them a deep understanding of the needs and challenges of various industries. Additionally, they have honed their writing and editing skills while working for newspapers, magazines, and trade publications, making them adept at crafting compelling content that resonates with target audiences.
However, not just their impressive resumes make Susan Carol Creative stand out. It's their unwavering dedication to providing the best possible service to their clients. Each team member is committed to going above and beyond to meet each client's unique needs, ensuring that their message is heard loud and clear. They do this by staying up-to-date on the latest trends and technologies and working collaboratively with clients to develop innovative strategies that get results. At Susan Carol Creative, the team believes that building lasting relationships with clients is the key to success. That's why they have worked hard to retain clients and staff for decades, earning their trust and loyalty through exceptional service and outstanding results. Whether it's media relations, new media, video, digital marketing, or creative ideas, the team at Susan Carol Creative has the skills and expertise to help clients differentiate themselves from their competitors and achieve their goals.
Tweetable Moments:
04:19 - “So many people enjoy podcasts and there's so many of them and a lot of the podcasters are looking for thought leaders and so I think it's a really wonderful opportunity for PR agencies.”
08:30 - “A lot of the reason that companies come to us is that they know we know their market and they don't have to spend a lot of time educating us so that we can just jump in and start to create some meaningful results pretty quickly.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out Susan Carol Creative website at https://scapr.com/home/
Check out Susan Carol on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/scapr/
Check out Susan Carol on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/SCAPR
Check out Susan Carol on Facebook at http://facebook.com/scapr
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.

Apr 1, 2023 • 21min
1502 – Breaking Through The Cluttered Market with GrowthMode Marketing’s Deanna Shimota
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the CEO of GrowthMode Marketing, Deanna Shimota.
Deanna Shimota is the CEO of GrowthMode Marketing, a B2B marketing agency that helps companies achieve growth through marketing strategies and programs. Deanna has over 20 years of progressive marketing management experience and has built marketing functions and departments from scratch at multiple organizations. She has a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a Master's Degree in marketing and communications from Metropolitan State University.
Deanna is known for her innovative thinking, strategic planning, and exceptional leadership skills, which have helped multiple technology companies achieve high-growth mode. She stays current with technology trends and social media changes while maintaining a solid foundation in traditional marketing principles. Companies can tap into her wealth of knowledge and experience by connecting with Deanna to develop effective marketing strategies and programs that align with their growth goals. Whether they need help building a marketing plan, creating a lead generation engine, or establishing themselves as a known brand and thought leader, Deanna, and her team can provide the additional bench strength and expertise needed to succeed.
About Deanna Shimota: She is an experienced marketing executive and the CEO of GrowthMode Marketing, a B2B marketing agency. With over 20 years of progressive marketing management experience, Deanna has built multiple organizations' marketing functions and departments from scratch. She has a Bachelor's Degree from the University of Wisconsin-River Falls and a Master's Degree in marketing and communications from Metropolitan State University. Deanna is passionate about marketing and strives to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and advancements. She has a strong foundation in traditional marketing principles and combines them with the latest technology trends and social media changes to achieve her clients' goals.
Deanna has developed exceptional skills in marketing strategy, content marketing, and demand generation throughout her career. She specializes in demand generation, lead generation, content marketing, digital marketing, client marketing, loyalty and retention programs, Software-as-a-Service (SaaS), technology marketing, marketing automation, global marketing strategies, and international and multinational programs. Deanna has used her skills and expertise to catapult multiple technology companies into high-growth mode. Now, she leads GrowthMode Marketing intending to help other organizations achieve similar success. She is a respected B2B marketing industry figure known for her innovative thinking, strategic planning, and exceptional leadership skills.
About GrowthMode Marketing: They are a B2B marketing agency dedicated to helping companies grow. They focus on understanding their client's goals and developing marketing strategies and programs that align with them. They have been there and marketed that experience. Their approach is centered on three core principles: building a marketing foundation, generating leads, and establishing their clients as an industry thought leaders. Their team has worked with many company leaders, marketing executives, and sales teams to build foundational B2B marketing programs, increase lead volumes, and establish their clients as leaders in their respective industries. They understand that marketing results are crucial to the success of high-growth companies, and they provide flexible solutions to help their clients achieve their goals.
Their services include building marketing plans and strategies that support rapid growth goals and developing lead-generation engines that are measurable and successful. They also create effective buyer personas and messaging that resonates with their clients' audience, positioning companies for going public, acquisitions, and divestitures. They also provide additional bench strength and expertise where and when their clients need them most.
Tweetable Moments:
00:57 - “I think starting with lead generation, your marketing programs are only focused on the 5% of companies that are currently in the market, which means you're playing the short game.”
01:23 - “The flip side, when you look at demand generation, this is really about building marketing programs that focus on driving value, not just for the 5% that are currently in the market, but also for the 95% who are not currently looking to buy.”
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out GrowthMode Marketing website at https://growthmodemarketing.com/
Check out GrowthMode Marketing on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/growthmode-marketing/
Check out GrowthMode Marketing on Facebook at
https://www.facebook.com/growthmode
Check out Deanna Shimota on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannashimota/
Check out Deanna Shimota on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/DeannaShimota
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Mar 31, 2023 • 15min
1501 – Complex Technology Services with Msys Technologies’ Sanjay Sehgal
In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Chairman and CEO of MSys Technologies, Sanjay Sehgal.
Connecting with Sanjay Sehgal, the Chairman and CEO of MSys Technologies, can provide valuable benefits for individuals and businesses. He is a highly successful entrepreneur with extensive experience in the technology industry, and his expertise can provide valuable insights and advice. As a speaker and thought leader, Sanjay's stories on overcoming obstacles and perseverance can inspire and motivate others.
Additionally, Sanjay is a philanthropist who is actively involved in global digital initiatives for Heartfulness. His commitment to positively impacting society can inspire others to get involved in philanthropic activities. Lastly, connecting with Sanjay can provide opportunities for networking and collaboration, as he has a vast network of contacts in the industry.
About Sanjay Sehgal: Sanjay is a highly successful entrepreneur, CEO, and Chairman of MSys Technologies, a leading IT services, and automation software provider. He has led the company since 2007 and has been instrumental in its consistent growth and success. Under his leadership, MSys Technologies has become a trusted name in the industry, providing product engineering services and digital transformation projects to ISV and Enterprise clients.
Sanjay has been recognized for his contributions to the industry. He received several awards, including the "Most Innovative Digital Transformation CEO" award in 2019 and The TiE Atlanta Top Entrepreneur Award in 2018. He has also been invited to speak at prestigious conferences such as the Web 2.0 Summit Leadership and the Impact of Leadership 21 Conference.
Besides his work in the technology industry, Sanjay is also deeply involved in philanthropic activities. He is a board member and advisor to various technology start-ups in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, and Blockchain technologies.
Sanjay is also a member of the Board of Advisors of the Audisankara Group of Institutions, Board of Trustees of the Heartfulness Education Trust, and Shanti Kunj Constructions. He is a philanthropist actively involved in global digital initiatives for Heartfulness, a non-profit organization. He is an inspiring and motivational speaker who has spoken at conferences on various subjects and themes, including storage, servers, gaming, and the web. He is known for his ability to communicate through his stories of overcoming obstacles, perseverance, and dealing with life's challenges.
About MSys Technologies: MSys Technologies, winner of the SDC Awards, is a reputable and reliable partner for businesses seeking product engineering services and digital transformation projects. With a client base of Enterprise and Silicon Valley customers, MSys Technologies specializes in designing, developing, and managing modern distributed systems and complex ecosystem integrations. This expertise enables the company to provide comprehensive solutions tailored to their clients' specific needs and requirements.
Aside from its technology expertise, MSys Technologies also employs an outcome-based pricing model. This pricing model ensures that clients receive measurable and tangible results which align with their business goals and objectives. This approach allows MSys Technologies to provide excellent value to its clients, and it has been a key factor in the company's continued success and growth. The leadership of MSys Technologies is also a significant contributor to the company's success. Under Sanjay's leadership, the company has become one of the industry's most consistent and trusted providers of IT services and automation software.
Links Mentioned in this Episode:
Want to learn more? Check out MSys Technologies website at https://www.msystechnologies.com/
Check out MSys Technologies on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/msys-technologies/
Check out Sanjay Sehgal on LinkedIn at
https://www.linkedin.com/in/sehgalsanjay/
Check out Sanjay Sehgal on Twitter at
https://twitter.com/sanjaysehgal
Check out Sanjay Sehgal on Instagram at
https://www.instagram.com/sanjaysehgalofficial/
Check out Sanjay Sehgal on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/sanjay.sehgal.940
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.
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Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.