Intentional Growth

Richard Wilson, founder of the Family Office Club and Billionaires.com, interviews numerous billionaires to uncover their success strategies. He explains the evolving role of family offices in managing ultra-wealthy assets and the critical need for networking and continuous learning from elite achievers. An intriguing discussion emphasizes the importance of balancing wealth accumulation with health and well-being, showcasing how billionaires maintain a sustainable mindset for long-term success.

In this insightful episode of the podcast, we delve into the complexities of the current economic landscape with a focus on the forecast for 2024, the implications of a mild recession, and strategies for businesses to navigate these challenging times. The discussion also covers the evolving dynamics of wholesale trade, financial market volatility, and the impact of geopolitical events on global economies.   THREE BIG IDEAS FROM THE INTERVIEW: Mild Recession in 2024 and Opportunities It Presents: The episode discusses the anticipated mild downturn in 2024. Despite this, there are opportunities for entrepreneurs to capitalize on, particularly as the U.S. economy is expected to rise in the second half of 2025 and beyond. Economic Volatility and Its Implications: The podcast highlights the elevated volatility in financial markets and other sectors like oil, emphasizing the need for businesses to be prepared for rapid changes and unexpected developments. Impact of Geopolitical Events and Changing Global Dynamics: The conversation sheds light on how geopolitical events, such as the evolving relationship between China and the United States, are influencing global economic trends and supply chains.   ABOUT BRIAN BEAULIEU: Brian Beaulieu has served as CEO and Chief Economist of ITR Economics since 1987, where he researches the use of business cycle analysis and economic forecasting as tools for improving profitability. Brian has shared his highly valued research results via presentations, workshops, and seminars in numerous countries to hundreds of thousands of business owners and executives for the last 40 years. He is coauthor of Prosperity in the Age of Decline, a powerful look at how to make the most of the US and global trends over the next 20 years, as well as Make Your Move, a practical and insightful guide to increasing profits through inevitable business cycle changes. Brian also coauthored But I Want It!, ITR Economics’ first children’s book. Brian serves on the board of directors for the Ariens Company, a leading global manufacturer of outdoor power equipment, as an advisor to Ackerberg Investors Fund III, as well as the board for Bellwether Wealth, an investment management and strategic wealth planning firm based in Lincoln, NE.  Brian has shared his expertise through various media outlets, including: USA Today, Knight Ridder, The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, The Wall Street Journal, Barron’s, The Washington Post, Kudlow and Friends, First on Fox, and numerous other outlets.   Resources: ITR Economics Sign Up for the 2030s Great Depression Update (Webinar) Facebook Twitter/X Instagram LinkedIn   REST OF SHOW NOTES: In a world where economic predictions often seem as uncertain as the weather, the podcast episode provides a beacon of insight, navigating through the fog of economic forecasts and global market dynamics. The episode, featuring expert perspectives, offers a deep dive into what businesses can expect in the coming years, particularly focusing on the forecast for 2024.   The Anticipated Mild Recession of 2024: As we sail into 2024, a mild recession looms on the horizon. However, unlike the catastrophic downturns of the past, this upcoming recession presents a unique set of opportunities. Businesses that are agile and strategic can leverage this period to strengthen their position. The discussion emphasizes the importance of being proactive and seizing the moment to gain a competitive edge.   Navigating Through Economic Volatility: The podcast doesn't shy away from addressing the elephant in the room – the heightened economic volatility. From whipsawing financial markets to fluctuating oil prices, the episode lays out a roadmap for businesses to navigate these turbulent waters. The key takeaway is clear: adaptability and a keen eye on global trends are crucial for survival and success.   The Geopolitical Chessboard: In an increasingly interconnected world, geopolitical events have far-reaching impacts on the global economy. The episode delves into the shifting dynamics between major global players like the United States and China. It underscores how these changes are reshaping supply chains and influencing business strategies. The conversation encourages listeners to consider the broader picture, understanding how international developments can affect local markets and business decisions.   The Role of Wholesale Trade and Consumer Behavior: A significant part of the discussion revolves around the changing landscape of wholesale trade and consumer behavior. As we approach 2024, these shifts become crucial indicators for businesses to watch. The podcast provides valuable insights into how these trends can be used to forecast demand and adjust business strategies accordingly.   Financial Market Insights: One of the highlights of the episode is the deep dive into financial markets. With an emphasis on volatility and its impact on investments and business growth, the conversation provides practical advice on how to approach financial planning and risk management in uncertain times.   Preparing for the Future: As the episode concludes, it leaves listeners with a sense of preparedness for the upcoming economic challenges. The discussion not only highlights the potential hurdles but also illuminates the path forward for businesses to thrive in a post-2024 landscape.   FINAL THOUGHTS: This podcast episode stands as a testament to the importance of understanding economic trends and being prepared for the future. In a world where change is the only constant, the insights shared in this episode are invaluable for businesses looking to navigate the complexities of the global economy with confidence and clarity.   PODCAST INTERVIEW QUOTES: 04:30  - “In the second half of '25 and '26 and following years, we see the US economy rising. So keep your eye on the price, take advantage of the opportunities during the week and next thing you know, ‘Bob’s your uncle.’” - Brian Beaulieu 07:47  - “We're seeing excess inventories up there now. And that's the more dangerous spot. And that's what makes the trend for us anyways in wholesale trade all the more worrisome.” - Brian Beaulieu 12:41  - “That credit won't loosen up for at least another year. So the conditions that we're currently faced with, the ones that we have to deal with for at least a year.” - Brian Beaulieu   INTENTIONAL GROWTH™ RESOURCES: Intentional Growth™ Podcast Archives: Archive of 367+ episodes and counting. Get access to the entire library HERE. We'll be adding a searchable tagging feature later on this year.  IG Financial Scorecard: Get your Intentional Growth™ Score that grades you on how well you are viewing - and running your business like a financial asset. Get your results and 5 case study videos HERE.   Intentional Growth™ Academy: 71 Videos, 9.5 hours of content, 20+ exercises. $995 for subscribers [normally $1,495] HERE

In this conversation with Ami Kassar, the Founder of Multifunding and an expert in SBA loans, listeners gain key insights into financing strategies essential for entrepreneurs. Ami stresses the importance of knowing your financial story to choose the right debt options and avoid unwanted equity dilution. The discussion also highlights the critical need for financial literacy to make informed projections and manage cash flow effectively. Furthermore, the balance between using debt wisely versus equity for growth is explored, offering valuable advice for sustainable success.

Explore the complexities of annual planning and how the Entrepreneurial Operating System can streamline your budgeting, forecasting, and overall business strategy. Discover the importance of setting a target equity valuation to guide your growth decisions. Learn how aligning financial goals with solid planning can enhance cash flow and reduce stress for business owners. This insightful discussion offers actionable tips for creating a realistic financial roadmap that empowers leaders to make informed choices for a sustainable future.

This podcast discusses effective annual planning strategies and the importance of integrating financials into structured frameworks like EOS. It highlights the role of financial literacy, budgeting, and forecasting in decision-making. The value of peer groups in enhancing the planning and budgeting process is also emphasized.

Adam Coffey, a CEO coach and author of "Empire Builder," shares invaluable insights on scaling businesses to billion-dollar revenue. He emphasizes the "30-20-10 rule" for profitability and the vital role of financial literacy for entrepreneurs. Coffey discusses transitioning from a hands-on management style to a strategic leadership approach as businesses grow. He also highlights how to think like an investor and navigate the complexities of private equity, underscoring the importance of understanding unit-level economics and fostering effective team dynamics.

In this episode with John Corcoran, we dove deep into the power of podcasting for B2B growth. John shares his journey from blogging to podcasting and how it's reshaped networking and business relationships. Together, we explore podcasting's multifaceted benefits for businesses beyond just audience engagement and content production. We discussed how podcasting can serve as a means to boost internal training, enhance client interaction, and even facilitate market research. A critical takeaway from our conversation was the need to ensure that podcasting initiatives are in sync with a business's overarching goals. John also highlighted how his services are particularly geared towards B2B enterprises with substantial client lifetime values, emphasizing that a clear understanding of the target audience and product line is essential to make a podcast truly successful.   THREE BIG IDEAS FROM THE INTERVIEW: 1. The Evolution and Value of Podcasting for Networking and Business Growth: John emphasizes podcasting as a unique medium for deep conversations and networking. Through genuine interactions, businesses can access hard to reach contacts, foster stronger relationships, making podcasting a powerful tool for connection before in-person meetings. Especially for businesses with high client lifetime values, podcasting offers multifaceted benefits ranging from professional development to strategic partnerships.   2. The Future of Podcasting and Overcoming Perceived Barriers: John envisions the integration of AI in podcasting, enhancing content accessibility and interactivity. While potential podcasters often face perceived barriers such as equipment or content concerns, these challenges are surmountable. Emphasizing the possibility for every unique person and company to have a voice, John encourages diving into podcasting despite the crowded landscape, likening its growth potential to the early days of web development.   3. Podcasting as a Strategic Business Tool and Content Marketing Strategy: Podcasting serves dual roles in personal development and as a potent content marketing strategy for the business. John's journey illustrates how converting passion into content creation can lead to robust brand building and audience engagement. It's crucial for both B2B and B2C businesses to align podcasting endeavors with their client acquisition cost and strategy. .    PODCAST INTERVIEW QUOTES: 11:14 - “A podcast is like an online tool that helps you strengthen offline relationships.” - John Corcoran 11:43 - “I wouldn't have been doing this every single week for almost eight years if I didn't think it was worth it.” - Ryan Tansom 17:05 - “Again used the podcast each time in order to build more relationships.” - John Corcoran 33:03 - “That was why I did it [podcasting], I needed leverage.” - Ryan Tansom 42:30 - “Who cares if you get 100 downloads or 100,000 downloads?” - John Corcoran   INTENTIONAL GROWTH™ RESOURCES: Intentional Growth™ Podcast Archives: Archive of 356+ episodes and counting. Get access to the entire library HERE. We'll be adding a searchable tagging feature later on this year. IG Financial Scorecard: Get your Intentional Growth™ Score that grades you on how well you are viewing - and running your business like a financial asset. Get your results and 5 case study videos HERE. Intentional Growth™ Academy: 71 Videos, 9.5 hours of content, 20+ exercises. $995 for subscribers [normally $1,495] HERE Q4 Nov. 2024 Intentional Growth™ Boot Camp: Two-day workshop with 25 other owners on November 8th and 9th in Minnesota at Bethel University. Learn more HERE. Minnesota CEO Exchange: Content + Panel, Networking, and Happy Hour with 100 Entrepreneurs. Mark your calendar, it's September 20th. Topic and location TBD. We'll keep you posted and let you know mid July. Q3 2023 Economic and M&A Update: with ITR Economics, ButcherJoseph, and the National Center for the Middle Market HERE

Brian Will's decision-making framework revolves around personal experiences, lessons from failures, and an emphasis on preserving lifestyle over chasing momentary gains. He underlines the significance of not risking assets when investing, relying instead on stable income for significant ventures. Drawing from past setbacks, he adopts a protective approach, ensuring his investments don't jeopardize his overall lifestyle. Influenced by insights from Terry Pendleton about athletes' financial misjudgments, Brian adopts a conservative stance, valuing secure investments like T-bills. Introducing the "McDonald's safety net" principle, he highlights that security lies in maintaining one's lifestyle, even if everything else falls apart.   THREE BIG IDEAS FROM THE INTERVIEW: The Importance of Self-awareness and Personal Motivation in Business: Understanding and continually reevaluating one's motivations is vital in both business and personal life. Challenges, Risks, and Adaptability in Entrepreneurship: His principle of not risking assets while being willing to invest income and the "McDonald's safety net" concept stress the need for financial prudence and the importance of maintaining a security baseline. Understand Your Role in Business: It's crucial for business owners to understand their strengths, delegate where needed, and structure their business in a way that promotes growth without being consumed by day-to-day operations.   PODCAST INTERVIEW QUOTES: 13:50 - “We start businesses and entrepreneurs and we build them because we think we're going to create a lifestyle.” - Brian Will 14:00 - “The problem is entrepreneurs start doing this and they sacrifice the very thing that they were building the business for in the first place.” - Brian Will 23:24 - “Human beings can think either emotionally or intellectually, but they can never think both of those at the same time.” - Brian Will 42:38 - “Venture capital is a game and it is not a game of making profit. It is a game of flipping companies and dumping them, dumping them off on the next highest bidder.” - Brian Will 56:56 - “I had no financial assets to back me up when my business took a hit.” - Brian Will   INTENTIONAL GROWTH™ RESOURCES: Intentional Growth™ Podcast Archives: Archive of 356+ episodes and counting. Get access to the entire library HERE. We'll be adding a searchable tagging feature later on this year. IG Financial Scorecard: Get your Intentional Growth™ Score that grades you on how well you are viewing - and running your business like a financial asset. Get your results and 5 case study videos HERE. Intentional Growth™ Academy: 71 Videos, 9.5 hours of content, 20+ exercises. $995 for subscribers [normally $1,495] HERE Q4 Nov. 2024 Intentional Growth™ Boot Camp: Two-day workshop with 25 other owners on November 8th and 9th in Minnesota at Bethel University. Learn more HERE. Minnesota CEO Exchange: Content + Panel, Networking, and Happy Hour with 100 Entrepreneurs. Mark your calendar, it's September 20th. Topic and location TBD. We'll keep you posted and let you know mid July. Q3 2023 Economic and M&A Update: with ITR Economics, ButcherJoseph, and the National Center for the Middle Market HERE

In this episode featuring Bakari Akil, we explore the remarkable journey of an entrepreneur who discovered the transformative power of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (EtA) using Leveraged Buyouts (LBOs) through a YouTube video, leading him to acquire a handbag company doing $30M in revenue, even though he started with only $1,000 in his bank account.   Bakari's story, from humble beginnings to successful acquisitions, highlights the importance of maintaining a consistent deal flow, building trust, and the convergence of wealth and societal impact. His journey serves as an inspirational roadmap for aspiring entrepreneurs, demonstrating how strategic knowledge and unwavering determination can pave the way for success in the world of business acquisitions.   THREE BIG IDEAS FROM THE INTERVIEW: 1. The Power of Leveraged Buyouts (LBOs) for Acquisition Entrepreneurs: Bakari Akil's journey into the world of acquisitions showcases the potential of LBOs as a path to entrepreneurship. He discovered the concept of LBOs through a YouTube video and pursued it through education and networking. This approach allows individuals like Bakari to acquire existing, well-run businesses without immediately making drastic changes (like the $30M handbag company he bought), offering a clear and concise path to business ownership and success.   2. Accessing Capital and Building Trust: Bakari's story highlights the importance of trust and transparency in the world of business acquisitions. Despite having only $1,000 in his checking account, Bakari recognized the potential for acquiring profitable businesses and attracting investors who trust his leadership. He established a significant network, the "Alternative Investments Club of New York," to connect with potential investors. This demonstrates the significance of trust in securing capital for acquisitions and growing one's venture. 3. Changing Perceptions of Wealth and Impact: Bakari's evolving perception of wealth and its role in making a positive impact on society is another key takeaway. He initially viewed wealth differently but realized the power of capital in effecting change. The interview underscores the idea that individuals can generate wealth while simultaneously making a positive impact, challenging the notion that one must choose between being a capitalist or an activist.   ABOUT BAKARI AKIL: As Director of Corporate Development for TriMech Solutions, Bakari Akil buys companies- sourcing and executing lower middle-market engineering software acquisitions. Bakari is backed by Sentinel Capital Partners & The Halifax Group. He acquires companies for hispersonal family office. In 2023, hisportfolio grew to include a $30M burlap bag manufacturing company he acquired where he sits on the board of directors.   RESOURCES: Graveshallcap.com bakari@graveshallcap.com Nomad Noir (YouTube)   PODCAST INTERVIEW QUOTES: 08:57 - “I was aware that there were big pools of capital but I didn’t know how to get access to that.” - Bakari Akil 15:27 - “If you're a smart person, you come in, you take over a business like that and you don't make any major changes. You just let it rock.” - Bakari Akil 16:08 - “I just needed to find a good business and a good growing industry.” - Bakari Akil 40:45 - “Depending on the type of job you get, now you've delayed poverty, right?” - Bakari Akil 50:22 - “The business is generating a profit level of somewhere between like $100 and $400,000 in annual profits. It'll generally trade for something like two or three times that number, right?” - Bakari Akil   INTENTIONAL GROWTH™ RESOURCES: Intentional Growth™ Podcast Archives: Archive of 356+ episodes and counting. Get access to the entire library HERE. We'll be adding a searchable tagging feature later on this year. IG Financial Scorecard: Get your Intentional Growth™ Score that grades you on how well you are viewing - and running your business like a financial asset. Get your results and 5 case study videos HERE. Intentional Growth™ Academy: 71 Videos, 9.5 hours of content, 20+ exercises. $995 for subscribers [normally $1,495] HERE Q4 Nov. 2024 Intentional Growth™ Boot Camp: Two-day workshop with 25 other owners on November 8th and 9th in Minnesota at Bethel University. Learn more HERE. Minnesota CEO Exchange: Content + Panel, Networking, and Happy Hour with 100 Entrepreneurs. Mark your calendar, it's September 20th. Topic and location TBD. We'll keep you posted and let you know mid July. Q3 2023 Economic and M&A Update: with ITR Economics, ButcherJoseph, and the National Center for the Middle Market HERE

Eric Rieger, Founder and CEO of WEBIT, discusses the power of 'why' in business decisions. He highlights the value of employee ownership and personal growth in authentic leadership. The podcast explores the impact of betrayals on belief systems, the importance of vulnerability, and surrounding oneself with diverse perspectives. It also emphasizes finding purpose beyond profit and understanding foundational beliefs. Additionally, the significance of continuous learning and the visionary integrator relationship are discussed.