

The Unscheduled CEO
Jonathan Courtney
This podcast is like getting an occasional voice-note from an entrepreneur who's running a multi-million dollar (profit) business. It's raw, completely unedited but most importantly: actionable!
Honestly, this should be called "Diary of a CEO", but that's... like.... taken already I think.
The Unscheduled CEO, hosted by Jonathan Courtney is counterintuitive advice on running a Small Business by someone who's been running one for over 13 years.
Jonathan Courtney is the CEO of AJ&Smart.com and Workshopper.com
Got a question you want to be read out on air? Comment on the current episode here: https://howtobusiness.substack.com/ www.unscheduledceo.com
Honestly, this should be called "Diary of a CEO", but that's... like.... taken already I think.
The Unscheduled CEO, hosted by Jonathan Courtney is counterintuitive advice on running a Small Business by someone who's been running one for over 13 years.
Jonathan Courtney is the CEO of AJ&Smart.com and Workshopper.com
Got a question you want to be read out on air? Comment on the current episode here: https://howtobusiness.substack.com/ www.unscheduledceo.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

14 snips
Jan 11, 2025 • 39min
How to make work feel like play
Dive into a spontaneous journey where creativity meets podcasting, sparked by a new synthesizer! Rediscover the balance between artistic passion and entrepreneurial duties, reigniting your creative roots. Shift gears from business travel to inspiring adventures, with Japan on the horizon. A candid reflection on how chronic stress impacts work-life harmony underscores the need for rejuvenating pursuits. Excitement brews for future projects, as the speaker embraces new energy and expresses gratitude for the audience's support.

Oct 11, 2024 • 52min
Why relaunching AJ&Smart drove me a little mad
The relaunch of AJ&Smart was a rollercoaster filled with emotional highs and lows. The speaker shares their struggles, likening the experience to pushing a heavy rock uphill while navigating high expectations for a major event. They highlight creative challenges in project management, particularly while developing a book on meetings. With a new office on the horizon, they grapple with the balance between perfection and playfulness. Ultimately, it’s a testament to teamwork and the necessity of embracing both ambition and creativity.

Aug 15, 2024 • 1h 4min
Rediscovering creativity and joy in my work
Hey friends!Just got back from a life-changing few weeks in California and wanted to update you all. This is a long episode, but I think it’s an important one.Cheers and love,Jonathan This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.unscheduledceo.com

Jun 4, 2024 • 10min
Goodbye, for now (+ Summer Mastermind update)
Exploring decision to take a break, company direction changes, announcement of mastermind event in LA, and recommendation of valuable content creator Alex Hermose.

May 28, 2024 • 20min
You don't need to find your "purpose" to make your first million
The podcast discusses the importance of practical strategies over purpose-driven narratives in entrepreneurship. It emphasizes seeking advice from relatable business figures, implementing efficient organizational systems, and focusing on tangible goals to achieve success. The speaker also shares insights on transitioning from a consultant to making the first million, highlighting the significance of actionable advice and personal reflections on maintaining consistency.

May 23, 2024 • 9min
Voicenote: I'm feeling a little overwhelmed...
Exploring the speaker's intense workload, balancing work and personal life, navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, and reflecting on upcoming projects with colleague Laura while expressing excitement and overwhelm.

24 snips
May 21, 2024 • 1h 6min
Forgetting this sales hack probably lost me millions
Discover how a unique perspective can revolutionize sales strategies, explore the casual insights of a CEO, navigate challenges in event facilitation, learn about consumer status symbols, and enhance sales through prestige marketing strategies. Delve into the psychology of status symbols in purchasing decisions and redefine value in work.

May 16, 2024 • 5min
Voicenote: Happy Birthday to Pierce Brosnan
Actor Pierce Brosnan, known for playing James Bond, is celebrated on his birthday with a heartfelt tribute, discussing AI developments and highlighting the impact of his talents. The podcast explores AI advancements, sci-fi concepts, and business strategies, mentioning the latest ChatGPT capabilities, futuristic themes from movies like 'Ex Machina' and 'Her', and promoting AJ&SMART's Summer Sale for training programs.

8 snips
May 14, 2024 • 57min
Every millionaire I know uses the "Canvas Strategy"
The podcast discusses the power of the Canvas Strategy in networking and career advancement, emphasizing the importance of showcasing skills and results to secure desired outcomes. It also explores the value of doing free work to create opportunities and valuable relationships in business, highlighting the need for humility and effort in creating success.

4 snips
May 9, 2024 • 11min
Voicenote: Have you heard of the "Going First" principle?
The podcast explores the 'Going First' principle in leadership, interactions, and life, using personal anecdotes and insights from Kevin Kelly and Gabby Reese. It emphasizes the importance of taking initiative, setting a positive tone, and making proactive decisions for personal growth and happiness.