John Corcoran is a recovering attorney, an author, and a former White House writer and speechwriter to the Governor of California. Throughout his career, John has worked in Hollywood, the heart of Silicon Valley, and ran his boutique law firm in the San Francisco Bay Area, catering to small business owners and entrepreneurs. Since 2012, John has been the host of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, where he has interviewed hundreds of CEOs, founders, authors, and entrepreneurs, including Peter Diamandis, Adam Grant, Gary Vaynerchuk, and Marie Forleo. John is also the Co-founder of Rise25, a company that connects B2B businesses with their ideal clients, referral partners, and strategic partners. They help their clients generate ROI through their done-for-you podcast service. In this episode… Facing difficult conversations, building genuine connections, and tackling unpleasant tasks are everyday struggles in both business and life. Whether it’s avoiding friction, procrastinating on necessary work, or feeling inauthentic while networking, these challenges can hinder personal and professional growth. How can individuals push through discomfort and develop meaningful, value-driven relationships? John Corcoran, a seasoned entrepreneur and podcast host, shares practical strategies to overcome these obstacles. He emphasizes the importance of authentic networking, offering tips on providing genuine value to others rather than being self-serving. He also introduces the concept of "swallowing the frog," which encourages tackling unpleasant but necessary tasks head-on. To streamline business operations, John recommends using tools like PandaDoc for efficient contract management and highlights the value of documenting systems to enhance productivity. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as Chad Franzen interviews John Corcoran, Co-founder of Rise25, about effective networking, productivity, and overcoming professional hurdles. John shares insights on building meaningful connections, using digital tools for efficiency, and developing resilience through difficult conversations. He also discusses impactful books and insightful podcasts, offering valuable lessons on raising well-grounded children and mastering effective business systems.

Josh Grossfeld is the Co-founder of AGENCY, a communications firm specializing in branding, direct mail, and political consulting, and the Founding Partner of Goodstock & Co., an e-commerce and fundraising platform. With over two decades of experience in direct mail, media production, polling, and grassroots organizing, he has been recognized as a Rising Star by Campaigns & Elections and included in the 40 Under 40 by the American Association of Political Consultants. Josh has developed successful direct mail programs for various campaigns nationwide, including initiatives at municipal, state legislative, congressional, and gubernatorial levels. In this episode… Navigating the unpredictable world of political consulting and entrepreneurship comes with unique challenges. From managing fluctuating cash flow and scaling teams rapidly to balancing work-life priorities, the stakes are high. How can business leaders remain adaptable and innovative while facing these intense pressures? Josh Grossfeld, a seasoned political consultant and entrepreneur, shares insights on overcoming these hurdles. With decades of experience, Josh emphasizes the importance of building strong processes to handle rapid team expansion during campaign cycles. He also highlights the value of balancing efficiency with creativity, using AI to streamline content creation while preserving human authenticity. Josh offers practical advice on cash flow management in cyclical industries and reveals how investing in paper futures during the pandemic safeguarded his business from supply chain disruptions. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Josh Grossfeld, Co-founder of AGENCY, about the evolving landscape of political consulting and business growth. Josh discusses the enduring power of direct mail in a digital age, the impact of AI on marketing strategies, and the importance of fostering a sustainable company culture. He also shares insights on managing unpredictable revenue cycles and leveraging e-commerce to support political campaigns.

Mike Birdsall is the Director of Business Development at DOXA Talent, a company dedicated to helping businesses build skilled nearshore and offshore teams. For over 30 years, he has partnered with business leaders to develop practical solutions that drive sustainable growth and long-term success. Previously, Mike co-founded Birdsell Interactive, an award-winning design and consulting firm, and launched DateBox Club, a subscription service that gained significant traction. In this episode… What do you do when your business is no longer thriving? Do you double down, pivot, or walk away? For many entrepreneurs, knowing when to sell or shut down can be one of the hardest decisions, filled with emotional and financial complexities. Mike Birdsall, a seasoned entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience, shares his insights on making tough business decisions. Mike reflects on his journey of founding and scaling multiple companies, including a subscription box service that soared during COVID-19 but later faced cash flow challenges. He highlights the importance of knowing your skill set, being transparent with your finances, and leveraging peer networks for honest feedback. Mike also emphasizes the need for business owners to recognize when their venture no longer aligns with their strengths or brings them fulfillment. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Mike Birdsall, Director of Business Development at DOXA Talent, about navigating business exits and strategic pivots. Mike shares how he transitioned from B2B to D2C, scaled his subscription box company to 5,000 monthly orders, and ultimately made the tough decision to sell. Mike also delves into his early days in sales, the impact of 9/11 on his business, and the power of strong entrepreneurial networks.

Frank Mattes is the Founder and CEO of Lean Scaleup, a firm specializing in out-of-the-box innovation and corporate new-business development. He co-created the Lean Scaleup methodology, collaborating with over 100 experts from academia and industry. With a career spanning more than 25 years, Frank has advised numerous international corporations, including Fortune 10 companies. He has repeatably been named Global Thought Leader and influencer on Entrepreneurship and Lean Startup by Thinkers360. In this episode… Businesses often face the challenge of balancing short-term success with long-term growth. With rapid technological advancements and shifting customer demands, how can organizations innovate while maintaining their current operations? Is it possible to prepare for the future without neglecting the present? Frank Mattes, a seasoned expert in innovation and business strategy, offers practical insights into this dilemma. Drawing from his extensive career, Frank suggests that businesses must integrate immediate needs and future innovations by fostering a culture of out-of-the-box thinking. He emphasizes the importance of leadership in guiding teams through transformations, particularly in challenging industries. By listening to employee feedback and aligning short-term decisions with long-term visions, companies can avoid stagnation and adapt to change. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Frank Mattes, Founder and CEO of Lean Scaleup, discussing how businesses can scale innovation while balancing current needs. Frank shares his expertise on adapting to disruption, the importance of innovation leadership, and lessons from companies like Kodak and Fujifilm. He also explains how Amazon and Amadeus successfully navigated the complexities of business transformation.

David Rose is the CEO of US Expansion Partners, a firm that helps European venture-backed tech companies expand into the US. With over 20 years of leadership experience, he has served as CEO three times and participated in five venture-backed startups, achieving four successful exits. David Rose has pitched at Google Demo Day, Silicon Valley Open Doors, and TechCrunch Disrupt. He holds a degree in economics from the University of Tennessee and an MBA from the University of North Carolina's Kenan-Flagler Business School. In this episode… Raising venture capital is a daunting challenge, especially for founders outside major tech hubs like Silicon Valley. Many struggle to connect with the right investors, facing rejection after rejection, often without understanding why. How can entrepreneurs improve their chances of securing funding and avoid common pitfalls in the fundraising process? David Rose, an experienced startup leader and investor, shares key strategies for targeting the right investors and making meaningful connections. He emphasizes the importance of aligning with an investor’s thesis, securing warm introductions through other founders, and refining the pitch to stand out in competitive funding environments. David also warns against tranche deals, which can leave startups vulnerable, and stresses the need for persistence, as it often takes hearing 100 no’s before receiving a term sheet. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews David Rose, CEO of US Expansion Partners, about how founders can successfully navigate the fundraising landscape. David shares insights on building investor relationships, overcoming geographic barriers, and leveraging pitch competitions. He also discusses the role of AI in streamlining outreach, lessons from bootstrapping after working in a Fortune 500, and why persistence is key to startup success.

Jen Kem is the CEO of Master Brand Institute, a company that helps entrepreneurs build influential and profitable brands. With over 20 years of experience, she has built multiple seven- and eight-figure businesses and consulted for Fortune 500 companies like Verizon and Blue Cross Blue Shield. Jen is also the creator of the Master Brand Method, a framework that leverages brand archetypes to win customers' hearts. Her work has been recognized by Forbes, naming her a top brand strategist, and she has collaborated with iconic brands such as the Oprah Winfrey Network and Oracle. In this episode… Building a successful brand and business isn’t just about having a great idea — it’s about having the right people to bring it to life. Many entrepreneurs struggle with finding the right team, leading to stalled growth, burnout, and missed opportunities. How can leaders identify and attract the best talent to scale their vision effectively? Renowned brand strategist Jen Kem believes that success starts with understanding leadership energy types and assembling a complementary team. She shares insights on the three concepts the nine leadership energies are based on — visionary, strategist, and mobilizer — and explains how they impact decision-making and execution. Jen emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, strategic hiring, and cultivating relationships to build a team that not only shares the vision but actively drives it forward. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jen Kem, CEO of Master Brand Institute, about harnessing your inner unicorn to elevate your brand. Jen discusses the leadership energy framework, the lessons she learned from scaling and losing an eight-figure business, and the importance of resilience in entrepreneurship. She also shares insights on brand positioning, effective messaging, and what it takes to become a true unicorn in business.

Arzays Davani is the CEO of The Davani Group, a luxury design firm specializing in bespoke interiors, custom furniture, and architectural features. He has grown the company into a leader in high-end craftsmanship, working with top architects and designers on multimillion-dollar projects worldwide. Arzays' career began in finance before transitioning into entrepreneurship, launching several ventures before founding The Davani Group. His design philosophy celebrates the raw beauty of natural materials, aiming to bring a resort-like luxury experience into everyday living spaces. In this episode… Starting a business in an unfamiliar industry can feel overwhelming, especially when faced with steep learning curves, financial risks, and doubts from others. Add to that the challenge of building a company with a spouse, balancing personal and professional roles, and maintaining a strong relationship. How can entrepreneurs successfully navigate these challenges and turn uncertainty into a thriving business? Arzays Davani, an expert in luxury design and craftsmanship, shares his journey of launching a high-end interior business without prior industry experience. Arzays emphasizes the importance of adaptability, strategic partnerships, and relentless problem-solving when entering a new field. He also highlights the value of clear communication and defined roles when working with a spouse, ensuring business growth and a healthy relationship. By focusing on quality, craftsmanship, and a deep understanding of client needs, he has built a flourishing brand that serves high-end clientele worldwide.  Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Arzays Davani, CEO of The Davani Group, about building a luxury business from the ground up. Arzays discusses his transition from finance to design, lessons from a failed startup, and the importance of craftsmanship in high-end interiors. He also shares insights on working with elite clients, overcoming business challenges, and maintaining a growth mindset in the face of adversity.

Brian Hansen is the Founder and President of Rocket Pilots, a boutique digital marketing agency specializing in law firm marketing. With a background in large agencies, Brian established Rocket Pilots to provide transparent and effective digital marketing solutions for attorneys. Under his leadership, the company focuses on enhancing law firms' online presence through tailored SEO and Google Ads campaigns. In this episode… Law firms face intense competition in the digital space, yet many struggle with ineffective marketing strategies that fail to generate consistent leads. Traditional agencies often lack transparency, overcharge for services, and fail to deliver results, leaving attorneys frustrated and unsure how to grow their practice. So, with ever-changing regulations, evolving digital trends, and the rise of AI, how can firms rethink their marketing approach to stay ahead? With experience at large agencies like ReachLocal and Zocdoc, Brian Hansen saw firsthand the common pitfalls of digital marketing. He highlights how law firms often overlook key aspects of client acquisition, such as intake processes and market positioning. Brian also shares a case study of a law firm forced to pivot overnight when regulations banned their primary marketing method, highlighting the importance of diversifying lead generation strategies. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Brian Hansen, Founder and President of Rocket Pilots, about the evolving landscape of law firm marketing. They discuss the impact of AI on SEO, how law firms can expand into new markets, and the future of lead generation. Brian also shares insights on the power of specialization, the risks of relying on a single marketing channel, and how law firms can maximize their digital presence.

Chip Conley is the Founder and Executive Chairman of Modern Elder Academy (MEA), the world's first "midlife wisdom school" dedicated to career and life transitions. At 26, he founded Joie de Vivre Hospitality, transforming it into the second-largest boutique hotel brand in the US. In 2013, Chip joined Airbnb as Head of Global Hospitality and Strategy, mentoring its founders and shaping its culture. He is also a sought-after keynote speaker and prolific author, with several influential books to his name, including Wisdom@Work: The Making of a Modern Elder and his latest bestseller, Learning to Love Midlife: 12 Reasons Why Life Gets Better with Age. In this episode… Many people approaching midlife struggle with uncertainty, questioning their purpose, relevance, and ability to adapt to change. Society often reinforces the idea that aging means decline, leaving individuals feeling stuck in careers or personal lives that no longer fulfill them. So, how can individuals in their middle years shift from feeling irrelevant to flourishing? Chip Conley, a veteran hospitality entrepreneur, author, and speaker, challenges these outdated notions by reframing midlife as a period of reinvention and renewal. Drawing from his journey — from building a boutique hotel empire to mentoring young tech leaders at Airbnb — Chip emphasizes the power of curiosity, adaptability, and lifelong learning. He shares practical strategies, including shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset, embracing intergenerational collaboration, and taking intentional sabbaticals to reset and gain clarity on life’s next chapter. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Chip Conley, Founder and Executive Chairman at Modern Elder Academy, about harnessing the potential of middle life. They discuss how Chip navigated his transition from hotelier to tech mentor, the challenges of leading while learning, and the impact of longevity on career planning. He also shares the philosophy behind MEA’s curriculum and the importance of a midlife sabbatical.

David Horsager is the Founder and CEO of Trust Edge Leadership Institute, a Minnesota-based company that helps global leaders and organizations build trust. Since 1999, Trust Edge Leadership Institute has pioneered trust development through research, speaking, consulting, and training on trust and its proven impact on the bottom line. David has advised leaders and delivered presentations on six continents, with audiences ranging from FedEx, Toyota, and MIT to the New York Yankees and the Department of Homeland Security. His insights have been featured in Fast Company, Forbes, New York Post, and SUCCESS Magazine, and his latest book, Trust Matters More than Ever: 40 Proven Trust Tools to Lead Better, Grow Faster & Build Trust Now!, is available worldwide. In this episode… Trust is the foundation of strong leadership, effective teamwork, and business success. Yet, many leaders struggle to build and maintain trust, especially in virtual or hybrid work environments. How can organizations develop a culture of trust that drives engagement, performance, and long-term growth? According to trust expert David Horsager, trust is not a soft skill but a measurable and strategic asset that impacts every area of business. Through decades of research, he developed the Eight Pillars of Trust, a framework that helps leaders build credibility, foster collaboration, and create high-performing teams. David shares insights on how clarity, consistency, and contribution play a critical role in trust-building, along with practical strategies for improving communication, leadership accountability, and organizational transparency. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews David Horsager, Founder and CEO of Trust Edge Leadership Institute, about the power of trust in leadership and business. David discusses his journey from launching his company in a basement to working with global brands like FedEx and Walmart. He also shares actionable tools for building trust remotely, improving performance reviews, and fostering a high-trust culture within organizations.