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.  

Transforming the Automotive Industry: Insights and Strategies In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting David Boice, the co-founder and CEO of Team Velocity. The conversation delved into the transformative work Team Velocity is doing in the automotive industry, focusing on technology and advertising solutions that enhance customer experiences. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode, providing a comprehensive guide for automotive professionals looking to innovate and improve their marketing strategies. The episode begins with the host engaging the audience by discussing the importance of introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his extensive experience, having had private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to uncover where their best business comes from. The host promotes a free video resource available at upmyinfluence.com, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in the automotive industry over the next 6 to 8 months, emphasizing a spam-free, ad-free approach. David Boice is introduced as the co-founder and CEO of Team Velocity, a company that collaborates with tier-one automotive manufacturers and individual car dealerships. Team Velocity specializes in technology and advertising solutions aimed at enhancing the sales and service processes within the automotive industry. David explains the fragmented nature of the automotive industry, where customers often encounter disjointed experiences when purchasing a vehicle. He describes a typical scenario where a customer might interact with multiple independent applications, leading to confusion regarding pricing and services. Team Velocity has developed a customer experience platform that integrates various technologies to create a seamless transaction process from initial engagement to final purchase. This platform aims to eliminate the disconnect that consumers often face, providing a more cohesive and user-friendly experience.   About David Boice: Self-made and innovative, David is a pioneer in auto industry technology. Throughout his impressive career, he has owned numerous companies in the automotive, tech, RV, marine and real estate sectors. Boice co-founded two of the largest tech and consulting companies (AutoMark and CyberCar) in the automotive trade, with an enterprise value of $200 million. He co-founded his first technology company, AutoMark, with his father at 22, selling in 2000 as part of one of the largest technology transactions in the automotive industry. In 2008, he broke through a challenging economy and co-founded the most sophisticated, data-driven marketing agency in the automotive industry: Team Velocity. Team Velocity’s specialized technology platform, Apollo, is designed specifically for automotive dealerships. Apollo uses smart data-driven marketing strategies to make the car-buying process smoother, creating an Amazon-esque experience for car buyers. About Team Velocity: Team Velocity is revolutionizing the automotive industry with technology that digitizes the car buying and vehicle ownership processes. Made by dealers for dealers, our Customer Experience Platform (CXP), Apollo®, provides a suite of integrated applications that make, manage and measure frictionless consumer experiences, from the initial engagement to a final transaction. Apollo empowers dealers to own the entire customer journey by delivering hyper-personalized campaigns across every touchpoint, maximizing ROI and lifetime revenue. With Apollo, Team Velocity is the only team your dealership will ever need. 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 Team Velocity website at https://teamvelocitymarketing.com/ Check out Team Velocity on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/team-velocity/ Check out David Boice's website at https://davidboice.com/ Check out David Boice on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidboice/ 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 Transformative Impact of AI on Customer Service   In a recent episode of our podcast, we delved into the transformative role of artificial intelligence (AI) in customer service, particularly within contact centers. Our guest, Kerry Robinson, the Vice President of Conversational AI at Waterfield Technologies, shared invaluable insights into the advancements in AI technology and its implications for businesses. This blog post will break down the key points discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners and readers alike. Kerry Robinson shares their long-standing involvement in AI, dating back to their childhood, and reflects on the evolution of AI over the decades. They emphasize that the last two years have marked a significant turning point in AI capabilities, moving beyond previous hype cycles to a point where AI can genuinely exhibit forms of intelligence that can be leveraged in practical applications. Modern AI can hold conversations, summarize information, translate languages, and solve complex problems, which are being applied in real-world scenarios, revolutionizing workplaces and personal lives. The conversation shifts to the specific applications of AI in contact centers, where Waterfield Technologies operates. Kerry notes that the contact center industry has historically faced challenges related to staffing and operational efficiency. They point out that many tasks currently outsourced to human agents could be more effectively managed by AI technologies. For instance, Klarna, a financial services company, successfully automated 70% of its customer interactions using AI, improving efficiency and resulting in higher customer satisfaction compared to interactions with human agents.   About Kerry Robinson: Kerry Robinson is the VP of Conversational AI at Waterfield Tech, a leading global provider of CX technology and services. With over 20 years of experience in data, AI, and customer experience, Kerry expertly navigates the realms of IVR, voice technology, and chatbots to maximize business ROI. As the former CEO and builder of VoxGen, which was successfully acquired, he brings a wealth of knowledge and innovation to his role. An Oxford-trained physicist with a Master’s in AI, Kerry is a relentless seeker, master builder, and devoted creator of impactful experiences. His unique blend of technical prowess and strategic vision keeps Waterfield Tech at the forefront of conversational AI.   About Waterfield Tech: Waterfield Tech is a global customer experience tech and services provider spanning the leading CCaaS, conversational AI, and WEM platforms. Waterfield Tech transforms experiences for organizations worldwide. Operating across six continents, our employees leverage a consultative, client-centric approach to design, build, and manage scalable, omnichannel and AI-enabled business solutions. Our breakthrough innovations in contact center technology, applied artificial intelligence (AAI), workforce engagement, and secure digital infrastructure reduce business costs, improve customer satisfaction, and help customers deploy a smarter utilization of the human workforce.   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 Waterfield Tech website at https://waterfieldtech.com/ Check out Waterfield Tech on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/waterfield-technologies Check out Kerry Robinson on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/k3rryrobinson 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.  

Mastering Networking and Communication for Business Success In the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Michael Forman, a renowned keynote speaker specializing in networking and communication. Michael shared his wealth of knowledge on how professionals can enhance their networking skills, build meaningful connections, and effectively follow up to maintain relationships. This blog post delves into the key takeaways from the episode, providing actionable advice and detailed insights to help you master the art of networking and communication for business success. The host kicked off the episode by emphasizing the critical role of networking and communication in the business world. Successful networking can lead to valuable introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. To support listeners in their networking journey, the host mentioned a free video resource available on their website, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics. This resource is based on the host's 15 years of experience in generating significant revenue for their companies. Michael Forman was introduced as a specialist in helping professionals improve their networking and communication skills. His approach varies depending on the audience, whether he is speaking to C-suite executives or sales teams. Michael emphasized that effective networking and communication can significantly increase profit margins in a short period. Michael outlined several key strategies for effective networking, each of which is broken down in detail. These include listening first to gauge relevant conversations, making eye contact to convey confidence, offering a firm handshake to set a professional tone, and injecting value by contributing relevant insights. He also introduced the acronym FORM (Family, Occupation, Recreation, Message) as a tool for building rapport and stressed the importance of active listening and consistent follow-up. Michael provided a structured approach to follow-up, including sending a thank-you email the same evening, a handwritten note the next morning, and subsequent emails if there was no response. The host wrapped up the episode by encouraging listeners to visit Michael Forman’s website for additional resources and to implement the strategies discussed to enhance their networking skills and drive business success. About Michael Forman:   Michael Forman is renowned for his exceptional communication skills and distinguished expertise in the realm of networking and he is author of the book “Networking Unleashed”, which he adeptly transforms into an engaging and financially rewarding experience. He stands as a leading authority in the field and is highly sought after for his captivating presentations on the subject. Through his extensive repertoire of engagements, he has consistently contributed to the substantial enhancement of corporate profitability. Beyond his professional accomplishments, Michael is a distinguished Veteran of Desert Storm, a testament to his commitment to service. While he finds great fulfillment in public speaking, his foremost devotion is to his wife and two sons, with whom he resides in Cumming, Georgia.   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 Michael Forman's website at https://www.michaelaforman.com/ Check out Michael Forman on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelforman/ 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.  

Transformational Leadership: Understanding and Overcoming Limiting Beliefs In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Will Steel, a transformational leadership and business coach. The discussion delves into the profound impact of personal transformation on business success, emphasizing the importance of overcoming limiting beliefs, addressing burnout, and the pivotal role of coaching. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide listeners on their journey to becoming effective leaders.v Will Steel has dedicated over 15 years to leading transformational programs globally. Now, he runs his own coaching business, focusing primarily on business owners. Will emphasizes that by transforming the individual behind the business, the business itself can flourish. He often encounters clients who feel overwhelmed, burnt out, or stuck in their current situations, and he helps them navigate these challenges to achieve significant growth. One compelling example shared by Will involves a client who owned multiple car body shops and was working excessively long hours, especially during the pandemic. Through coaching, Will guided him to delegate responsibilities by appointing managers for each shop, allowing the client to reduce his work hours significantly while still achieving impressive business results. Will also discusses his upcoming book, "Free to Lead," which aims to provide insights into leadership and personal transformation. He shares that the book is inspired by his work in the Middle East and seeks to empower leaders to break down barriers that prevent them from being their best selves. The book will guide readers through self-reflection exercises, offer practical insights, and empower them to take charge of their own journeys to become effective leaders. In summary, this episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur" offers valuable insights into transformational leadership and the importance of personal growth in achieving business success. For more insights and resources, visit Josh's website at upmyinfluence.com. About Will Steel: Having coached individuals from all walks of life - including CEO’s, top business executives, entrepreneurs, rocket scientists, politicians, senior military and civil service personnel, psychologists, world champion athletes, celebrities, musicians, and religious leaders from all denominations including Tibetan monks – Will has developed the unique ability to quickly identify what blocks people from being effective in producing breakthrough results. Listening from the ontological perspective, Will is able to guide you to see and conquer what you have been blind to and blocked by, enabling you to act free from your limiting beliefs and constraints. Earlier in life Will graduated from the Royal Air Force College Cranwell with the Leadership Trophy, flew as a military pilot for 10 years, and as a commercial pilot for a further 2 years. While fully able to think on his feet in highly challenging real-life dangerous situations, the sensitivity and listening skills needed for the civilian and business world got honed in the Personal Development arena. With his ability to listen from the ontological perspective, Will delivers unprecedented results that will far exceed your expectations. About Will Steel Coaching: Whatever area in life you are looking to enhance, from career development to improving confidence, Will Steel will design a coaching package that will work best for your situation. Get in touch today, and we will help you begin your journey. Live a life that works for you, that you really love, that produces incredible results. 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 Will Steel Coaching website at https://willsteel.com/ Check out Will Steel on LinkedIn at https://uk.linkedin.com/in/will-steel 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 Complexities of Financial Management In a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Tevia Hoalst, the founder of TeKoda Accounting. The discussion delves into the accounting industry, its current challenges, and the pivotal role of company culture in fostering a successful business environment. Tevia shares her unique perspective on the importance of having a reliable financial partner and offers practical advice for business owners navigating their financial management. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide business owners in managing their financials effectively. Tevia begins by explaining the origin of the name "TeKoda," a creative blend of her name and a previous company name, "Kota." This unique branding strategy not only sets her apart in search results but also reflects her innovative approach to business. TeKoda Accounting aims to "obliterate the status quo" in the accounting industry, focusing on creating a positive culture for employees and, in turn, enhancing the client experience. Their services encompass a wide range of accounting functions, including bookkeeping, payroll, and invoicing. TeKoda Accounting partners with CPAs for tax-related matters, ensuring comprehensive financial management for their clients. One of the most pressing issues in the accounting sector is the impact of AI. While AI has the potential to streamline certain processes, Tevia believes that it cannot replace the human element of financial management. AI can automate repetitive tasks, but the strategic and analytical aspects of accounting still require human expertise. Another critical challenge is the shrinking workforce in the accounting field, leading to increased competition for talent. Tevia emphasizes the importance of cultivating a strong company culture to attract and retain top talent in this competitive landscape. About Tevia Hoalst: Tevia Hoalst is the founder of TeKoda Accounting, with a passion for helping others, she’s made it her mission to obliterate the status quo in the accounting industry and has since grown her company into a successful woman-owned business, who’s earned the Inc Power Partner award and Inc Best Workplaces 2024. (that one is not public yet though!) Under Tevia’s guidance, TeKoda Accounting has grown into a thriving firm, offering a comprehensive range of accounting services to clients across various industries. The company is known for its commitment to its positive company culture and for delivering personalized attention, innovative solutions, and support to its clients. About TeKoda Accounting: We are an accounting firm based in Boise, Idaho. We have a national reach with clients and employees all across the country. Our accounting team has a proven track record of successfully managing finances across 60+ industries. In addition, we are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest accounting practices and certifications. As a result, you can be confident that your finances are done right. 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 TeKoda Accounting website at https://www.tekodaaccounting.com/ Check out TeKoda Accounting on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/tekoda-accounting Check out Tevia Hoalst on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevia-hoalst 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.  

Mastering Social Media Marketing   In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh explores the nuances of social media marketing with Ashley Mason, founder of Dash of Social. This content marketing agency excels in social media management, blog content, email marketing, and overall marketing strategy, particularly for tech startups and smaller companies. The discussion is packed with insights on the current state of social media marketing, the role of AI, and the significance of authenticity and personal connections in crafting a successful marketing strategy. Ashley Mason underscores a notable shift towards "human-centric content," emphasizing the importance of showcasing the people behind a business. This approach builds trust and relatability, creates emotional connections, and helps businesses stand out in a crowded marketplace. Additionally, video content continues to dominate social media, with short-form videos, live streaming, and behind-the-scenes glimpses being particularly effective. AI is also becoming a powerful tool in marketing, aiding in idea generation, data analysis, and personalization, though it should complement, not replace, human creativity and connection. Josh and Ashley agree on the growing importance of authenticity in content. Audiences are increasingly discerning and can easily spot inauthentic content. To maintain authenticity, businesses should avoid generic messaging, share personal stories, and be transparent about their practices and values. Ashley also highlights the importance of a multi-faceted marketing strategy, including public relations, paid advertising, SEO, blogging, and email marketing. For those not ready to hire a marketing agency, Ashley encourages proactive steps like consultations, educational resources, and social media engagement to enhance marketing efforts. Listeners are invited to connect with Dash of Social for further insights and support in their marketing journey.   About Ashley Mason:   Ashley Mason is the founder of Dash of Social, a content marketing agency specializing in social media management, blog content, and email marketing. Additionally, Ashley founded Massachusetts Business Network in 2022, which is the only statewide publication that provides free to low cost resources that support organizations with increasing their visibility and establishing thought leadership through its podcast, blog, and directory. Ashley is a graduate of Stonehill College, where she received her Bachelor's Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Marketing. She is a TEDx speaker, has been named a 40 Under 40 Honoree by Cape & Plymouth Business Media, and was recognized as Best Social Media Specialist by Boston Business Women. Ashley currently serves as a Board Member for the Brockton Visiting Nurse Association (BVNA), Middleboro Public Library, and South Shore Young Professionals (SSYP). When she isn't working, you can find her running on her Peloton or curled up on the couch with a book.   About Dash of Social: A content marketing agency specializing in social media management, blog content, and email marketing. Working closely with their clients, Ashley and her team help small businesses and tech startups craft and execute value-driven marketing strategies designed to establish thought leadership, grow online communities, and drive brand awareness. 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 Dash of Social website at https://dashofsocial.com/ Check out Dash of Social on LinkedIn at http://www.linkedin.com/company/dash-of-social Check out Ashley Mason on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyjeanmason 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.    

Leadership Development: Embracing the Growing Edge In a recent episode of the podcast, host Josh delves into the intricacies of leadership with Chris Thyberg, a seasoned leadership coach and the founder of "The Serving Way." The conversation sheds light on the multifaceted nature of leadership, particularly the challenges leaders face as they transition from technical roles to leadership positions. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice and thorough explanations to guide aspiring and current leaders. Josh sets the stage by underscoring the critical role of effective leadership across various sectors, including nonprofits, startups, and established companies. He introduces the concept of the "growing edge," a term coined by Chris Thyberg to describe the pivotal moment when leaders realize that their existing skills and competencies may no longer suffice for future success. Chris defines the "growing edge" as a critical juncture where leaders experience discomfort or imposter syndrome, recognizing that their previous methods of success are now hindering their progress. This often occurs when a leader who has excelled in a technical role transitions to a leadership position, where managing teams and navigating organizational dynamics require a different skill set. Chris argues that sustainable success in leadership requires a focus on both the outer game and the inner game. The outer game includes the visible aspects of leadership—what leaders say, do, and how they perform, encompassing measurable outcomes, competencies, and performance. The inner game involves self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and presence. Chris likens this to needing an "operating system upgrade," where leaders must cultivate their inner resources to navigate the complexities of their roles and foster a positive environment for their teams. He emphasizes the importance of radical listening and views himself as a midwife for leaders, helping them to birth their potential and navigate their journeys of growth. About Chris Thyberg:   Chris has a driving commitment to serve leaders who serve purposes greater than themselves and seek to offer real value to all their stakeholders. If this is you, Chris is your coach. Chris and his wife have been married for over four decades. Together, they raise chickens, tend the garden, and renew with slow meals, eclectic reading, and outdoor adventures. They delight in spending time with their adult kids, their partners, and are getting ready to welcome their first grandchild. Chris enjoys an occasional whiskey and cigar night with his two grown sons, cheering for Liverpool FC, having fancy coffee with his daughter, and listening to music from ambient to zydeco. Chris loves to travel extensively for professional and personal growth, having visited and worked in Africa, Latin America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East. For more than 35 years, Chris and his family have lived in a socially and economically diverse Pittsburgh neighborhood. They love being a part of this vibrant, diverse community. Chris and his wife consistently advocate for equitable housing, employment, and education in their area. This passion for service carries into Chris’s calling to help leaders navigate the realities of identity, power, and culture. We all need places where we get to do great work that’s worth doing. That’s why we’re called “The Serving Way.”   About The Serving Way: The Serving Way offers tailored coaching for emerging and experienced leaders in all sectors. My distinct approach as a partner and an ally in your unique development will draw out your inherent powers as a leader. Through outcome-focused, growth-oriented exploration, we will work together at your leading edge to expand skillful, effective action grounded in how you are evolving professionally and personally. Equipped with new perspectives and practices, you will experience fresh options, make bold choices, and take strong action to achieve breakthrough results. As you lead your team in service of great purpose, your enterprise will create lasting value for all of your stakeholders. 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 Serving Way website at https://theservingway.com/ Check out The Serving Way on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-serving-way/ Check out Chris Thyberg on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/christhyberg/ 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.

Insights from an Expert on Entrepreneurship and Personal Development In this episode, we delve into the world of entrepreneurship with Allan Draper, a seasoned entrepreneur and business startup expert. The conversation covers a range of topics, including Allan's journey from practicing law to becoming a successful entrepreneur, the significance of personal branding, the necessity of focusing on a niche, and the sacrifices that come with building a successful business. Allan also shares insights into his upcoming book and his approach to coaching other business leaders. Allan begins by sharing his unique background. Initially, he worked as an attorney but soon realized that entrepreneurship was his true calling. He made a significant career shift by leaving his legal job in Phoenix, Arizona, to start a pest control business in Detroit, Michigan. This decision marked the beginning of his entrepreneurial journey, which has spanned over a decade and involved multiple ventures across various industries. Allan emphasizes that entrepreneurship is not just a profession for him; it is an integral part of his identity. He has since expanded his portfolio to include a digital marketing agency, a software company, and even a law firm, showcasing his versatility and adaptability in the business world. In addition to running his businesses, Allan is passionate about coaching other entrepreneurs. He limits his coaching to two business owners at a time, allowing him to provide focused support while managing his other commitments. Allan is currently writing a book that addresses the sacrifices required for entrepreneurial success, emphasizing the importance of balancing work with personal life. Allan is also active on social media and engages with the business community through various platforms, including his podcast, which he plans to relaunch. He shares valuable insights and experiences, aiming to inspire and educate fellow entrepreneurs. About Allan Draper: Allan’s story may sound familiar. It’s probably a lot like yours. Allan grew up in home that had very few financial resources. But there was something inside him. Something that yearned for more. Something that made him want to extract every last drop out of his potential. Allan is on a mission to help 10,000 people make short-term sacrifices to build businesses and wealth. 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 Allan Draper's website at https://allandraper.com/ Check out Allan Draper on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/allanrdraper/ 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.    

Mastering E-commerce: Expert Shopify Strategies with Clayton Bates In the latest episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge sits down with Clayton Bates, a seasoned Shopify expert and the founder of Inspire Small Business. With over six years of experience and a portfolio of around 600 clients, Clayton has facilitated over $100 million in sales through the websites his company has developed. This episode dives deep into effective e-commerce strategies, focusing on optimizing Shopify websites to boost conversion rates and enhance customer engagement. Clayton Bates is a name synonymous with e-commerce excellence. His journey in the e-commerce space has been marked by a keen understanding of the common pitfalls that new business owners face and a knack for providing actionable solutions. His company, Inspire Small Business, offers a range of services designed to help businesses build and optimize their Shopify websites. Clayton identifies several frequent pitfalls that new e-commerce entrepreneurs encounter. Understanding these mistakes is the first step toward creating a successful online store. Clayton delves into the mindset of e-commerce business owners, highlighting the challenges they face. Many entrepreneurs become overwhelmed by the myriad of tasks involved in running an online store. Prioritizing order fulfillment and social media often takes precedence over website optimization. Clayton emphasizes the significance of the "About" page, which can humanize your brand and significantly influence conversion rates. For listeners interested in improving their e-commerce websites, Clayton offers a free video audit service through Inspire Small Business, providing personalized feedback and actionable tips to enhance website performance.   About Clayton Bates: Clayton Bates is a highly accomplished business professional, a finalist for Business Person of the Year, and a recipient of multiple design and business awards. He is the founder and sales leader at Inspire Small Business, specializing in website design. Since 2018, Clayton has been a Shopify Partner and has been recognized as a Shopify Expert since 2019, driving tens of millions in additional revenue. With over a decade of personal e-commerce experience, he has shipped more than 10,000 orders and secured over 1,000 Page #1 Google rankings. Outside of work, Clayton enjoys spending time with family and friends, riding his motorbike, hitting the gym, and playing cricket. About Inspire Small Business: Inspire Small Business are online business architects with experience managing tens of thousands of orders through their own ventures. In addition, they have supported small businesses globally, generating tens of millions in extra revenue. If you’re ready to collaborate with an agency focused not just on websites but on transformative digital journeys, explore their services. 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 Inspire Small Business website at https://www.inspiresmallbusiness.com/ Check out Inspire Small Business on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/inspire-small-business/ Check out Clayton Bates on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/clayton-bates/ 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.