Mastering Client Acquisition: Sustainable Client Growth in the Agency World   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh Elledge sat down with Joshua Johnston, the founder of Hydra, to discuss effective strategies for client acquisition in the digital marketing agency world. Joshua, with his extensive background in scaling digital marketing agencies and consulting, shared invaluable insights that can help agency owners and entrepreneurs enhance their client acquisition efforts. This blog post delves into the key themes and strategies discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to guide listeners in their business growth journey. Joshua Johnston's journey in the digital marketing space is both inspiring and instructive. As the Chief Operating Officer of a digital marketing agency, he played a crucial role in scaling the business to multiple seven figures, leading to its acquisition by a venture capital firm in 2020. Despite starting with limited knowledge about operations, Joshua's dedication to learning and improving operational efficiency was instrumental in the agency's success. Post-acquisition, he transitioned into consulting, where he now helps other agencies optimize their operations and achieve similar growth. This episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast provides a wealth of insights into effective client acquisition strategies for digital marketing agencies. Joshua Johnston's experience and expertise highlight the significance of referral systems, social proof, and building strategic partnerships. By focusing on long-term relationship building and consistently delivering value, agencies can position themselves for sustainable growth and success in a competitive landscape. Listeners are encouraged to implement these strategies in their own businesses to enhance their client acquisition efforts and ultimately drive revenue growth. For more inspiration and motivation, subscribe to the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast and explore the resources available through Hydra.   About Joshua Johnston: Driven by a passion for impact, Josh is on a mission to help eradicate agency poverty and provide businesses with the operational infrastructure needed to scale profitably. From his roots in Ann Arbor, Michigan, where he began his career as a Personal Trainer, Josh has evolved into a visionary entrepreneur. With a decade of experience leading the growth of multi-seven-figure businesses in various niches, Josh founded Hydra to bring his expertise to digital agencies. His leadership in marketing and sales, combined with innovative projects like Hydra Council and Cleanbooks, has empowered over 100 agencies to achieve their growth potential. From 2018 to 2020, Josh served as the COO of Welling Media, where he architected the systems and infrastructure to support their rapid growth to multiple seven-figures per year in revenue and over 25 employees. He played a key role in servicing some of the most prominent brands in the DTC industry, such as the Oodie and Snow Teeth Whitening, and was instrumental in the acquisition of Welling Media in 2020. Guided by values of growth, personal happiness and profit, Josh is committed to helping business founders build businesses that serve them. His journey is a testament to the power of resilience, strategic planning, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. Currently, Josh is focused on Hydra's four main offerings: management consulting with DWY and DFY solutions for digital agencies, bi-annual events called Hydra Council, the new bookkeeping arm called Cleanbooks and the latest addition, Agency Therapy. A recent notable milestone was hosting their first international event in London.   About Hydra: Hydra is a consulting firm that partners with digital agency owners to enhance their operational systems, processes, and service offerings, empowering them to scale to multiple seven figures and beyond. The firm specializes in: Building efficient operational systems for project management and team development, suitable for teams of any size. Teaching proven frameworks and practices that drive sustainable, profitable growth. Clarifying each agency's true purpose to help them attract their ideal clients. With a focus on creating operationally efficient organizations, Hydra enables agencies to move faster and increase profitability. In the past two years, founder Josh has successfully guided over 100 agencies through their growth journeys. His systemize-then-scale approach eliminates single dependencies, establishing solid foundations for consistent 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 Hydra website at https://www.workwithhydra.com/ Check out Hydra on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/workwithhydra/ Check out Joshua Johnston on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshykobyashi 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.  

Navigating Business Law: Preventative Measures for Entrepreneurs In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Matthew Davis, the CEO and owner of Davis Business Law, and the author of "The Art of Preventing Stupid." The conversation delved into the critical importance of preventative measures in business law, aiming to help entrepreneurs avoid common legal pitfalls. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Matthew, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide business owners in safeguarding their ventures. Matthew Davis is introduced as a seasoned expert in business law, known for his proactive approach to legal issues. His philosophy revolves around helping clients stay out of legal messes, which ultimately leads to greater prosperity in their businesses. One of the foundational steps Matthew recommends is establishing a Limited Liability Company (LLC). This structure provides personal liability protection and can be crucial for both startups and established businesses. Additionally, for multi-member LLCs, having an operating agreement is essential to avoid complications down the line. Matthew likens entering a business partnership to a marriage, highlighting the need for clear agreements to prevent conflicts. Matthew shares some of the most common "oh crap" moments he encounters with clients, emphasizing the importance of being proactive rather than reactive. These include partnership issues, customer contracts, vendor contracts, and employee contracts. He elaborates on the importance of understanding legal priorities in business and introduces the "Strong Protected Business Checklist," which outlines critical legal steps to take as a business evolves. The episode wraps up with the host thanking Matthew Davis for sharing his insights and encouraging listeners to visit the Davis Business Law website for valuable resources. This episode serves as a valuable reminder for entrepreneurs to prioritize legal protections and preventative measures to ensure the long-term success and stability of their businesses. About Matthew Davis: Matthew Neill Davis is an attorney, heavy metal guitarist, and entrepreneur that led his solely owned firm, Davis Business Law, through over 1000% percent growth over eight years, making it one of very rare law firms ever to make the Inc 5000 list. The firm currently has eight offices from Austin to Kansas City. With over twenty-five years of experience helping businesses leaders with their legal and entrepreneurial matters, Davis now teaches them how to deal with their vulnerabilities so they can capitalize on their opportunities through his firm’s proprietary Strong Protected Business System️. Davis lives in Enid, Oklahoma, where his family has lived for six generations, and holds degrees from the University of Oklahoma, Cornell University, and Cornell College.   About Davis Business Law: Davis Business Law is a group of dedicated general counsel and litigation experts to business clients of all sizes. Our goal is to provide you with a solid foundation for growth while preventing and eliminating legal problems that rob you of your peace of mind and prevent you from building a life-changing business. We transform how companies operate by enhancing and systematizing procedures in an effort to minimize legal mishaps and maximize growth. At Davis Business Law, we believe that your attorney should be a trusted business advisor, not just a legal technician.   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 Davis Business Law website at https://davisbusinesslaw.com/ Check out Davis Business Law on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/davisbusinesslaw/ Check out Matthew Davis on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewneilldavis 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.    

Leveraging Media Exposure for Business Growth   In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Mitch Carson, the founder and CEO of Get Interviewed Guaranteed. The discussion centers around the critical role of media exposure, particularly television appearances, in driving business growth for authors, speakers, and CEOs. This blog post delves into the key takeaways from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you leverage media exposure effectively. Mitch Carson, with extensive experience in media and public relations, emphasizes the importance of media exposure in today's competitive business landscape. He highlights that leveraging high-level media exposure, especially through network television, can significantly enhance visibility and credibility. For those based in Las Vegas, Mitch guarantees coverage on four networks within two days, along with appearances on his own NBC Las Vegas show. He explains that being featured in a respected market like Las Vegas can serve as a powerful credential when seeking media opportunities in larger markets, such as Orlando or New York. The conversation also highlights the importance of building credibility through media exposure. Mitch shares a success story about a retired brigadier general who leveraged her media appearances to secure speaking engagements and business opportunities. He explains that media exposure creates a "snowball effect," where initial appearances lead to more opportunities, such as guest spots on high-profile podcasts and radio shows. Mitch emphasizes the need for a blended approach, utilizing both traditional and digital media to reach target audiences effectively, and encourages repurposing media content for social media platforms to enhance credibility and visibility.   About Mitch Carson: Mitch’s background includes starting his first business in college and selling it for more than 7 figures USD by the age of 28. His second startup with partners (Planet Recycling, Inc.) was sold in 1993 to Waste Management for an undisclosed sum. He started Impact Products Marketing in 1997 and grew its sales by speaking throughout the USA pitching advertising services to professional practices of lawyers, doctors, dentists, chiropractors, and real estate professionals. He found it made any business grow exponentially faster by mastering the use of selling one-to-many versus one-on-one. This simple twist in marketing grew Impact Products to a business generating more than $10,000,000 USD in less than 3 years. His agency was sold to Halo Branded Solutions in 2008. He has self-published several books with one published in 2008 by John Wiley and Sons with “The Silent Salesmen.” It was translated into German and sold more than 16,000 copies in a niche market. Education: BA in Communications from the University of Southern California. He later returned to school to earn an MBA with an emphasis in Marketing. Accomplishments: Trained over 600 speakers, authors, coaches, consultants, CEOS and coaches reach their goals. Many have gone on to be NY Times bestselling authors, Wall Street Journal Authors. Many have been able to experience a life transformation, as few are able to see, experience and realize their personal power in a 5-day experience. Many have gone on to become keynote speakers in their native countries, became authors, and recognized experts irrefutably.   About Get Interviewed Guaranteed: 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 Mitch Carson's website at https://www.mitchcarson.com/ Check out Mitch Carson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchcarsoninstantcelebrity/ 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.  

Navigating Digital Transformation: Insights on AI and Project Management In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Mariam Chtchyan, the Chief Operating Officer of Hack Tech. The conversation delved into the services offered by Hack Tech, the evolving landscape of project management, and the significant role of artificial intelligence (AI) in digital transformation. This blog post will break down the key insights shared by Mariam, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners and readers alike. The episode kicks off with the host introducing Mariam Chtchyan, highlighting her extensive experience in the tech industry and her pivotal role at Hack Tech. Hack Tech is a company that has been in the market for nearly a decade, specializing in offering dedicated engineering teams. They position themselves as a partner for both businesses and individuals, focusing on transforming ideas into tangible products, particularly in software and mobile application development. Mariam notes a growing interest in AI among clients, reflecting a broader trend toward digital transformation. Hack Tech supports clients by automating processes and providing consulting services to enhance efficiency. Mariam emphasizes that clients do not need to have a fully fleshed-out project plan before reaching out. Hack Tech provides product managers and UX designers to guide clients through discovery discussions, helping them refine their ideas and understand market dynamics. The landscape of project management has changed significantly, especially post-COVID. While soft skills remain essential, technical knowledge has become increasingly important. Project managers now need to communicate effectively with developers and understand the technical aspects of projects, including programming languages and AI technologies. The episode concludes with the host encouraging listeners to explore Hack Tech's website and reach out for potential collaborations, highlighting the dynamic nature of the tech industry and the critical role of collaboration in driving successful digital transformation initiatives. About Mariam Chtchyan: With over nine years of experience in project and delivery management, the individual currently serves as the Chief Operations Officer at HackTech LLC. They have successfully managed and delivered multiple projects for clients across various industries, utilizing agile methodologies and virtual management tools. Their core competencies include problem-solving, stakeholder management, team leadership, and customer satisfaction. They are passionate about creating value and impact through technology and digital solutions, with the goal of leveraging their skills and experience to help organizations achieve their strategic objectives and vision. About Hack Tech: We are a product and engineering partner for supporting our clients on their digital transformation journey. While it’s similar to outsourcing, the main difference at HackTech is that we are selecting our partners based on culture, making sure that we live by similar values and our team can be motivated by the impact they are making on partners’ projects. Our services cover all life-cycle of development from product management to software engineering and DevOps. Except just filling our partners’ P&E department, we are bringing the latest standards with us from a continuous delivery mindset to data-driven product management, guaranteeing frequent and painless releases to support business growth. 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 Hack Tech website at https://gohacktech.com/ Check out Hack Tech on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/hacktech-llc/ Check out Mariam Chtchyan on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/mariam-chtchyan-2b2b3b167 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.  

The Importance of Virtual Assistants and Remote Teams In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Barbara Turley, the founder and CEO of The Virtual Hub. The discussion centers around the evolving landscape of virtual assistance and the critical role that remote teams play in contemporary business operations, particularly in light of the shifts prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This blog post delves into the key insights shared during the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to help businesses effectively integrate virtual support teams. Barbara Turley begins by explaining the mission of The Virtual Hub, which primarily serves scale-up companies experiencing growth but struggling with operational tasks that do not require their direct involvement. The Virtual Hub provides cost-effective support teams that help free up the time and energy of business owners and managers, allowing them to focus on growth and impact. She discusses the current state of the virtual staffing industry, noting that while it has been around for decades, its popularity has surged since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Many companies that previously hesitated to adopt remote teams have now embraced this model, recognizing its potential to alleviate operational burdens. Josh raises the point that while platforms like Upwork and Fiverr offer solutions for finding team members, they come with inherent challenges. Barbara emphasizes that businesses often come to The Virtual Hub when they are already overwhelmed and lack the time to sift through resumes and conduct interviews. She introduces the concept of the "support layer," which encompasses the tasks and roles that are essential for business operations but do not require the direct involvement of business leaders. By partnering with The Virtual Hub, companies can efficiently find and onboard support staff without the time-consuming process of traditional hiring. As the episode wraps up, Josh encourages listeners to visit The Virtual Hub's website, where they can access a masterclass on how to delegate and scale their businesses. About Barbara Turley: Barbara Turley is the Founder & CEO of The Virtual Hub, a leading virtual assistant company. She is on a mission to revolutionize the way businesses operate by eradicating business overwhelm. She helps clients to optimize their operations using offshore virtual assistants, process automation, and streamlined workflows. Under her leadership, The Virtual Hub has grown to a 350-employee company and has helped 200+ business founders, owners, and operators work smarter and scale faster.   About The Virtual Hub: At The Virtual Hub, we provide fully managed, in-house trained and dedicated virtual assistants. Helping companies work smarter, move faster & scale better with a combination of operational efficiency frameworks, tech stacks that work, and offshore team strategies. From e-commerce and SAAS to coaching and service businesses, we help unlock business growth by freeing great people from the time-suck of busywork. Our Virtual Assistants handle all of your admin work so you can focus on growing your business.   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 Virtual Hub website at https://www.thevirtualhub.com/ Check out The Virtual Hub on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-virtual-hub-ltd/ Check out Barbara Turley on LinkedIn at https://au.linkedin.com/in/barbara-turley 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.  

The Power of Podcasting for Business Growth   In a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh sat down with Tamara Thompson, the founder of "Broadcast Your Authority," to delve into the transformative potential of podcasting as a marketing tool for businesses. Josh opens the episode by emphasizing the growing significance of podcasts in the business landscape. Podcasts not only serve as a platform for sharing valuable insights but also as a means to connect with audiences on a deeper level. Tamara echoes this sentiment, explaining that a well-executed podcast can enhance brand visibility, establish authority, and foster community engagement. Tamara shares her perspective on who should consider launching a podcast, believing that anyone with a message to share, whether they are entrepreneurs, professionals, or thought leaders, can benefit from podcasting. The key is to have a clear understanding of the target audience and the value that the podcast will provide. Tamara encourages potential podcasters to think about their unique voice and the stories they want to tell, as authenticity is crucial in building a loyal listener base. She outlines several advantages of podcasting, including increased brand awareness, establishing authority, networking opportunities, and content repurposing. Tamara emphasizes that a strategic approach is essential for launching and managing a successful podcast. She advises potential podcasters to consider content planning, marketing strategy, and measuring success. Additionally, she discusses the commitment required to produce a podcast and the role of AI tools in streamlining the production process. As the episode wraps up, Josh reiterates the importance of podcasting as a powerful marketing tool for businesses and encourages listeners to explore the possibility of starting their own podcast. For those interested in learning more, Tamara invites them to visit "Broadcast Your Authority" for resources and support.   About Tamara Thompson: Meet Tamara Thompson, the dynamic host of Broadcast Your Authority TV. With a diverse background in entrepreneurship, award-winning director and video marketer, Tamara's journey as a business leader has been nothing short of remarkable.   Having invested in over 25+ companies, Tamara is well-versed in the world of business and has honed her expertise as the Founder and CEO of Broadcast Your Authority. Her agency specializes in crafting micro-content sourced from weekly podcasts, strategically positioning companies, influencers, and experts as respected industry leaders.   Tamara's foray into video marketing began back in 2013 when she founded Serious Take Productions. Her entrepreneurial films were met with resounding success, selling out in prestigious film festivals and even achieving viral fame on YouTube. This caught the attention of IndieFlix, which acquired her films for distribution, further cementing her reputation as a visionary in the field. Fascinated by the mechanics of viral videos, Tamara set her sights on assisting experts in growing their own channels. This led her to share her invaluable methods on various stages, podcasts, and YouTube, starting in 2015. Then, in 2019, she took her passion to the next level by establishing Broadcast Your Authority, empowering individuals and businesses to leverage the power of content marketing to establish their authority in the market with the future of technology and AI.    About Broadcast Your Authority: Guaranteed Solution to Overcome Your Podcasting Delegation Hurdles Our approach provides a unique blend of quality, guidance, and detail targeted to your content production needs, helping you gain new reach, brand growth, and online exposure.   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 Broadcast Your Authority website at https://broadcastyourauthority.com/ Check out Tamara Thompson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarathompson-serioustakepro/ 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.  

Navigating Entrepreneurial Growth: A Holistic Approach to Business and Personal Fulfillment In the latest episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Kasey D'Amato, a seasoned speaker, executive coach, and president of Kasey D'Amato Enterprises. The discussion delves into Kasey's unique approach to coaching and advising business owners, particularly those in the service sector, as they strive for growth and personal fulfillment. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Kasey, providing a comprehensive guide for entrepreneurs looking to enhance both their business and personal lives. Kasey D'Amato describes herself as a concierge business advisor and executive life coach. Her mission is to support and nurture business owners who aspire to elevate their businesses while simultaneously enhancing their personal lives. Drawing from her background in medicine, Kasey advocates for a holistic approach to entrepreneurship, recognizing that personal and professional growth are intertwined. She highlights common struggles faced by entrepreneurs, such as feelings of isolation, burnout, and stagnation, particularly for those operating between $0 to $10 million in revenue. Kasey emphasizes that these feelings are not uncommon and that entrepreneurs often find themselves overwhelmed by the day-to-day demands of running a business. Throughout her career, Kasey has observed recurring patterns among entrepreneurs, categorizing the business journey into stages, each with its own set of hurdles. She identifies critical breakpoints, often around the $1 million mark, where business owners may feel stuck or overwhelmed. To help entrepreneurs gain clarity and fulfillment, Kasey suggests practical exercises involving financial goals, time and energy allocation, and ensuring fun and fulfillment in their work. By recognizing these patterns and implementing Kasey's strategies, entrepreneurs can better navigate their journeys, avoid common pitfalls, and ultimately lead a more balanced and successful life. About Kasey D'Amato: Kasey D’Amato is an accomplished business advisor and executive life coach with 20 years of experience as a high-achieving professional across multiple industries.. She began her career in pharmaceutical sales, later launching an aesthetic division of a Dermatology practice as a board-certified Dermatology PA. Kasey went on to found a global skincare brand, and then launch and expand her online coaching and consulting business, and later divide it into two independent companies. Simultaneously, she developed a multi seven-figure real estate portfolio across the US while maintaining a happy marriage and traveling the world with her husband. Despite major setbacks with her own emotional health, and significant business challenges at times, Kasey has developed a deep understanding of what it takes to build a business, make strategic and difficult decisions, build effective teams both at work and at home, plan an exit, and achieve ultimate success, balance, and fulfillment.     On a mission to impact 1 million entrepreneurs and high achievers, Kasey aims to provide easy-to-implement mindset strategies, unique proprietary business tools, and clear road maps that intentionally align business and life to show people that building their dream lives is more achievable than they might think.   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 Kasey D'Amato's website at https://www.kaseydamato.com/ Check out Kasey D'Amato on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/kaseydamato/ 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.  

Embracing AI in Leadership and Decision-Making In a recent podcast episode, the host of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, Josh Elledge, engages in a compelling conversation with Djuradj Caranovic, a leadership advisor to Fortune 500 CEOs and author of "The Book That Changed Me." The discussion delves into the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in leadership and decision-making processes, exploring both the challenges and opportunities that AI presents. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide leaders in leveraging AI effectively. Djuradj Caranovic brings a wealth of experience advising top executives on influencing decision-making within their organizations. He notes that many leaders view AI as a technical challenge rather than an opportunity for cultural transformation. Djuradj advocates for a human-centered approach to AI implementation, arguing that it should be an integral part of the leadership journey rather than just a technical project. He explains that the corporate world often settles for "good enough" solutions, which can hinder effective communication and decision-making. AI can bridge this gap by providing insights and perspectives that enhance clarity and conciseness in communication. Josh and Djuradj discuss the limitations of human cognition in decision-making. AI can assist in creating comprehensive analyses, such as SWOT analyses and pro/con lists, leading to more informed decisions. Djuradj points out that AI can help leaders prioritize information, enabling them to cut through the noise of big data and focus on what is relevant to their specific context. As the conversation draws to a close, the host encourages listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys and consider how they can leverage AI to enhance their effectiveness. Djuradj invites those interested in exploring these ideas further to connect with him on LinkedIn, emphasizing the importance of two-way communication and collaboration. About Djuradj Caranovic: Djuradj Caranovic is an innovative author and visionary leader, best known for his book The Book That Changed Me. As a pioneering architect of cognitive revolutions, Djuradj leads one of the world’s elite companies that possesses the advanced computing power necessary to train decision-making AI models informed by insights from over 250 high-impact projects. With a unique approach that empowers leaders to process information and make decisions at unparalleled speeds, Djuradj’s work harnesses the nuanced judgment of seasoned executives. His key innovations include the Quantum Cognitive Framework™, which transforms complex behavioral patterns into actionable strategies, enabling Fortune 500 leaders to reduce decision-making time by 40% and improve outcomes by 35%, resulting in significant annual savings. Djuradj’s Impact Quotient™ quantifies enhancements in decision velocity and strategic foresight, making it adaptable for organizations of all sizes. His philosophy, encapsulated in the concept of "AI Years," allows leaders to become more effective in mere hours. His real-world impact spans multiple sectors, from driving AI product development in tech and spearheading ethical AI initiatives in corporate governance to enhancing engagement for non-profits. Djuradj also serves as a dedicated partner in strategy, blending AI with behavioral economics and psychotherapy to empower executives in navigating the ethical complexities of AI adoption. As an active member of the EU AI Governance Alliance and the OECD's AI Policy Observatory, Djuradj is committed to advancing ethical AI leadership, ensuring that organizations not only comply with regulations but lead the charge in responsible AI implementation, balancing innovation with societal impact. About "The Book That Changed Me": In this powerful and innovative guide, Djuradj Caranovic masterfully blends cutting-edge science, practical wisdom, and deep psychological insight to offer a new paradigm for personal transformation. Drawing from his unique background in economics, behavioral science, and psychotherapy, Djuradj presents a holistic approach to overcoming obstacles and unlocking your full potential. Key features of "The Book That Changed Me": Discover pioneering models that integrate insights from finance, psychology, and artificial intelligence Learn how to view challenges through multiple lenses, uncovering hidden solutions Explore real-life case studies of visionary entrepreneurs and executives who have achieved breakthrough transformations Gain practical tools for building resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence Understand the neuroscience behind lasting personal change Access a companion online community for ongoing support and growth Whether you're a business leader seeking to drive innovation, an individual at a personal crossroads, or simply someone committed to continuous self-improvement, this book offers invaluable insights for navigating the complexities of modern life. About LXBP - Inner Pathways: LXBP - Inner Pathways is a fully AI-driven company, hosting one of the world's first behavioral practices pattern databases (10,000+ unconscious and conscious behaviors), with no front-end employees. We offer three revolutionary services: I. Market Simulation: Addressing costly and time-consuming market research challenges, our pattern recognition engine, powered by 6,000+ AI agents (personas or companies), provides rapid product and service testing, simulating market behavior. This service delivers accurate market response predictions within hours, reducing risk and accelerating time-to-market decisions with ~82% accuracy and improving. II. Cognitive Enhancement: For C-level executives, high-net-worth individuals, and influential figures, our 7,000+ AI personas analyze unconscious behaviors, generate diverse perspectives on ideas, enhance communication styles, and boost critical thinking and philosophical reasoning. III. Custom Pattern Recognition Engine Creation: We design and develop tailored pattern recognition engines for clients, enabling them to harness the power of AI for their specific industry needs and behavioral analysis requirements. This cutting-edge AI is refined by a small backend team of neuroscientists, psychologists, and industry experts, ensuring unparalleled performance in decision-making optimization and market insights." 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 LXBP - Inner Pathways website at https://innerpathways.org/ Check out LXBP - Inner Pathways on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/innerpathways/ Check out Djuradj Caranovic on LinkedIn at https://pt.linkedin.com/in/djuradj Check out "The Book That Changed Me" on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/Book-That-Changed-Me/dp/B0D8H2BRC8 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.  

Navigating the World of Virtual Staffing: The Rise of AI in Recruitment In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh sat down with Benjamin Moróne, the founder of Zabota, a company specializing in virtual staffing. The conversation delved into the evolving landscape of virtual staffing, particularly focusing on hiring talent from Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe for online service-based businesses in the United States. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by Benjamin, providing a comprehensive guide for business owners looking to optimize their virtual staffing strategies. Benjamin Moróne, originally from Montana and currently residing in Warsaw, Poland, founded Zabota approximately two and a half years ago. Zabota's mission is to connect U.S. businesses with skilled talent from Latin America and Central and Eastern Europe, specializing in roles ranging from executive assistants to positions just below the Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) level. One of the most significant trends Benjamin highlighted is the increasing influence of artificial intelligence (AI) in recruitment and the work performed by virtual staff. Candidates are enhancing their skills by taking online courses on platforms like Udemy and Coursera, focusing on integrating AI into their work. This trend reflects a broader shift in the job market, where candidates strive to make themselves more attractive to potential employers. Effective onboarding is crucial for integrating new hires into a company. Benjamin emphasized the importance of context in the onboarding process. Business owners, especially those who have been running their companies solo for several years, often have a comprehensive understanding of their operations. However, new hires may only see fragments of the business. Therefore, it is crucial for business owners to distill their knowledge into manageable pieces that new employees can understand. Benjamin introduced the concept of a "two-part onboarding" process: Company Context Onboarding and Role-Specific Onboarding. This structured program should last at least two to three weeks to ensure new hires have a solid foundation.   About Benjamin Moróne: Benjamin Moróne is an American entrepreneur and innovator based in Warsaw. After graduating from university, Ben traveled across Europe and observed several issues within the recruitment industry, including their fee structures, guarantees of results, and their sources of talent. From this moment he founded Zabota -A talent acquisition that helps individuals land on the company that is fit for their skills. He sees many talented people during his travels who could fill the job openings he knew about. Ben’s company ensures that both the valuable time and money of their clients are well-spent from the moment they begin working with them. Zabota aims not only to help business owners but also the talent that Europe & LATAM can offer. About Zabota: Zabota specializes in placing pre-vetted, European & Latam English-speaking talent in businesses. We offer a comprehensive service that includes intensive headhunting, leveraging AI for vetting, and understanding local work ethics and values. Zabota.io saves costs for clients while increasing generational wealth for talented individuals globally. We handle the entire hiring process, from strategy and attraction to vetting, interviewing, and onboarding, ensuring a perfect fit for the your needs. Additionally, they offer a guarantee, replacing hires for free if necessary. 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 Zabota website at https://www.zabota.io/ Check out Zabota on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/zabota Check out Benjamin Moróne on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/benjamin-mor%C3%B3ne-454009112 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.  

Navigating the Lower Middle Market: Mergers and Acquisitions Insights   In the latest episode of our podcast, host Josh sits down with Scott Weavil, an M&A advisor and managing director of Sierra Pacific Partners, to delve into the intricacies of mergers and acquisitions (M&A) within the lower middle market. Scott brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table, offering valuable insights for business owners considering an exit strategy or exploring growth through acquisitions. This blog post will break down the key points discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners through the M&A landscape. Josh kicks off the episode by introducing Scott Weavil, highlighting his expertise in the field of mergers and acquisitions. Scott's firm, Sierra Pacific Partners, specializes in sell-side advisory services, helping business owners navigate the complexities of selling their companies. Scott likens his role to that of a real estate agent, but instead of selling properties, he facilitates the sale of businesses across various industries in the United States. Scott provides an overview of the current M&A landscape, noting that while there were high expectations for the first half of 2024, the reality has been mixed. Despite media focus on large, high-profile deals, the lower middle market has remained active, with interest rates stabilizing and leading to increased activity. Scott explains that Sierra Pacific Partners primarily handles buyout transactions, aiming to sell businesses outright rather than seeking minority investments. The firm operates in a wide range of industries, including Software as a Service (SaaS), restaurants, construction, and healthcare technology. This diverse portfolio allows Scott and his team to apply insights and strategies from one sector to another, enhancing their advisory capabilities. For business owners contemplating an exit in the next three to five years, Scott offers valuable advice on increasing their company's valuation, emphasizing the importance of clean financials and reducing owner dependence. About Scott Weavil: Scott Weavil is the founder of Sierra Pacific Partners, a lower middle market investment bank focused on sell-side mergers and acquisitions (M&A) advisory services. Sierra Pacific Partners functions like a real estate agent, but in the complex world of selling businesses rather than buildings. Scott began his career as a Wall Street M&A attorney working on multi-billion dollar public company transactions and started Sierra Pacific Partners to provide expert advice and high-touch service to lower middle market companies throughout the United States. Scott holds a national FINRA Series 79 (Investment Banking Representative) and is a Certified Merger & Acquisition Advisor (CM&AA), a FINRA-recognized designation. He is a member of the Alliance of Merger & Acquisition Advisors (AM&AA), Association for Corporate Growth (ACG), and ProVisors, among other professional organizations. He attended Duke University and Vanderbilt Law School. Scott lives in Lake Tahoe with his wife and daughter. He enjoys outdoor adventures and has climbed Denali unguided.   About Sierra Pacific Partners: Sierra Pacific Partners is a boutique sell-side M&A advisory firm and investment bank. We advise dynamic companies and their owners at key inflection points. 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 Sierra Pacific Partners website at https://www.sierrapacificpartners.com/ Check out Sierra Pacific Partners on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/sierra-pacific-partners Check out Scott Weavil on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottweavil 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.