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Dr. Craig Kaplan is the Founder and CEO of iQ Company, a leading consulting firm specializing in the ethical and safe development of advanced AI and Superintelligent systems. With over 20 years at the helm, Dr. Kaplan has published a book, numerous patents, and ten whitepapers on Safe Superintelligence. His former company, PredictWallStreet, earned top recognition for outperforming major financial institutions like NASDAQ and TD Ameritrade. In this episode… As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at lightning speed, the world is grappling with a pivotal question: can we build systems powerful enough to change the world without losing control of them? What would it take to design smarter, safer, and more transparent AI that humanity can truly trust? According to Dr. Craig Kaplan, a pioneering figure in AI and collective intelligence systems, the key lies in prevention and design. He emphasizes that most of today's AI models function as "black boxes," where even their creators can't fully explain how decisions are made — a recipe for unpredictable behavior. Dr. Kaplan argues that the industry must focus on embedding safety at the design phase, not patching it afterward. Drawing from decades in AI and software quality, he highlights how systems designed with human oversight, transparency, and collective intelligence can be both safer and more profitable, ensuring accountability while maintaining innovation's momentum. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Dr. Craig Kaplan, Founder and CEO of iQ Company, about designing safer and more transparent AI systems. They explore the flaws in current AI training, the promise of collective intelligence, and the urgent need for ethical frameworks. Dr. Kaplan also shares why smarter design (not slower development) is the path to both safety and progress.

Shannon Swift is the CEO and Founder of Swift HR Solutions, a consulting firm that provides strategic HR and talent solutions to early-stage and growth-stage companies with a focus on startup and emerging sectors. For over 20 years, Swift HR Solutions has partnered with hundreds of clients, including Zillow, thriving as a primarily referral-based business with minimal marketing. Passionate about building strong foundations for startups, Shannon excels in fast-paced environments and brings a unique perspective shaped by her early years growing up in national parks. In this episode… Some businesses thrive without spending a dime on advertising or marketing. They attract every client through word of mouth, with reputation alone driving steady growth and opportunity. What does it take to build a self-sustaining referral engine that delivers year after year? Shannon Swift shares the secrets behind her firm's 100% referral-based business model, tackling the challenges of sustainable growth without conventional marketing. Drawing on her early HR experiences with startups and high-growth companies, Shannon reveals how she deliberately cultivated authentic relationships, focused on service, and consistently prioritized helping others, whether through volunteering, board leadership, or simply being generous with advice. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Shannon Swift, Founder and CEO of Swift HR Solutions, about building a thriving, 100% referral-based business in the HR consulting space. Shannon shares how her early years in national parks inspired a spirit of service, what it takes to earn lasting trust in business relationships, and how technology and remote work have reshaped her industry.

Adam Pontrelli is a Professional EOS Implementer at Apex Coaching, where he helps entrepreneurial leadership teams use the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) to gain clarity, accountability, and growth in their businesses.  A retired serial entrepreneur and Founder of AP World Marketing, Adam built a company that developed strategic partnerships with major retailers such as Costco, Walmart, Target, and Amazon. Under his leadership, the firm achieved sustained double- and triple-digit growth, ultimately leading to a successful nine-figure client exit. In this episode… For many business owners, the challenge isn't just building success  — it's sustaining it without burning out. How do you rebuild after major setbacks and design a business that fuels both growth and fulfillment? According to Adam Pontrelli, a retired serial entrepreneur turned business coach, the key lies in embracing structure and self-awareness. He explains that true freedom as an entrepreneur doesn't come from constant hustle but from clarity — understanding your strengths, aligning with the right people, and creating systems that let you step back while your business runs smoothly. Drawing from his own experience of being "kicked out of the nest" twice, Adam highlights how perseverance, peer support, and frameworks like EOS can transform chaos into confidence. His story shows that sustainable success often begins when leaders learn to let go. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Adam Pontrelli, Professional EOS Implementer at Apex Coaching, to discuss overcoming entrepreneurial setbacks and building sustainable success. They explore lessons from family business failures, finding purpose through adversity, and the game-changing power of EOS. Adam also shares how peer communities like EO shaped his leadership journey.

Yuko Tsuchida is the Founder of Hito, LLC, a Newport Beach–based tax consulting firm specializing in strategic tax planning, credits, and incentives for multinational corporations. With over 15 years of experience, Yuko has helped clients, including Fortune 500 companies, save millions of dollars by navigating complex tax credits and exemptions. She brings a global perspective to her work, having studied and worked in the US, Spain, and South Africa. Yuko is also an advocate for solo motherhood by choice, openly sharing her personal journey to inspire and support others considering a similar path. In this episode… Building a business in a foreign country is never easy — but what if you also choose to become a solo parent along the way? Many professionals dream of creating a fulfilling life on their own terms, yet cultural expectations, financial pressures, and fear of judgment can make those dreams feel out of reach. How do you pursue both entrepreneurship and motherhood when neither path comes with a clear roadmap? Yuko Tsuchida,  a solo mom and entrepreneur, demonstrates how resilience and self-trust can rewrite even the toughest stories. After immigrating to the US, she built a niche tax consulting firm helping small and midsize companies claim valuable credits and incentives. But her biggest leap came outside business — choosing to become a mother by choice. Yuko candidly shares how she navigated adoption as a non-citizen, found unexpected support from her traditional Japanese family, and learned to balance leadership with parenting. Her journey reveals that success isn't about following convention but staying true to your values. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Yuko Tsuchida, Founder of Hito LLC, about forging her own path as an entrepreneur and solo mom by choice. Yuko talks about building a business across cultures, making bold life decisions with confidence, and finding community in unexpected places. She also shares lessons on resilience, redefining success, and embracing the freedom that comes from authenticity.

Tristan Bordallo is the Founder of Fr8topia, a brokerage focused on transparency and smarter logistics solutions, and the Founder and CEO of Iamfr8, an asset-based trucking company built on a driver-first culture.  Under his leadership, he has guided both companies through significant growth, successfully scaling asset-based operations from scratch. He also serves as a venture partner with Blue Impact Supply Chain Ventures, helping drive innovation in supply chain technology. Passionate about leveraging new tools and AI, Tristan is dedicated to modernizing logistics, supporting entrepreneurs, and empowering hardworking carriers through smarter business solutions. In this episode… Legacy industries often resist disruption, yet innovation still finds its way in through those bold enough to challenge the norm. What happens when someone from modest beginnings steps into a traditional field like logistics, armed with fresh ideas and technology? Can one person's relentless drive and willingness to take risks reshape an entire industry? Tristan Bordallo faced this challenge head-on by combining his firsthand experience from both the brokerage and carrier sides of freight. Inspired by a mentor figure who thrived in freight brokerage, he entered the logistics world determined to make his mark. Through strategic risk-taking, investing in his own fleet, and developing innovative tools to empower small carriers, Tristan transformed obstacles into opportunities and turned his hard-earned lessons into solutions for others.  Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Tristan Bordallo, Founder and CEO of Fr8topia and Iamfr8, about transforming the freight and logistics industry through innovation and grit. Tristan shares insights on bridging the gap between brokers and carriers, leveraging AI and tech to support small operators, and how staying curious and hands-on can lead to meaningful breakthroughs.

Marc Stöckli is an entrepreneur, board member, and investor based in Switzerland. He co-founded and led Totemo AG, a leading cybersecurity company, for over two decades before its successful sale. Marc also served as Global Chair of the Entrepreneurs' Organization, guiding strategy and governance for 20,000 members worldwide. He is the author of the forthcoming book Make Boards Work, which helps entrepreneurs turn their boards into powerful assets for growth. In this episode… Most entrepreneurs know they need a board, but few know how to make it truly work for them. Too often, boards feel like a legal requirement instead of a strategic advantage. So how can business leaders transform their boards into powerful catalysts for growth and innovation? According to Marc Stöckli, a global leadership expert and board strategist, the key lies in redefining how boards function — from ego-driven oversight to collaborative, high-performing teams. He highlights that effective boards depend on trust, structure, and curiosity over judgment. By aligning strategy, behavior, and clear communication, boards can move from passive to pivotal and unlock better decision-making, stronger leadership, and sustainable business results. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran talks with Marc Stöckli about how to make boards work as strategic assets. They discuss lessons from Marc's entrepreneurial journey, the principles of great board governance, and how to overcome ego and conflict in the boardroom. Marc also shares how his "18 Summers" philosophy helps leaders build stronger family relationships alongside business success.

Jeremy Ames is the Co-founder and CEO of Guidant Financial, a firm that helps entrepreneurs access capital via retirement-fund rollovers, SBA loans, and administrative services. He co-founded the company in 2003 with just $10,000 and a laptop. Over the years, Guidant has helped over 30,000 people start or buy small businesses and franchises across the US. Jeremy also has experience owning franchise operations himself and has launched additional ventures in media and business services. In this episode… Many aspiring entrepreneurs dream of owning a business but feel stuck because of financial barriers. Between mortgages, family expenses, and the uncertainty of leaving a steady job, the leap to ownership can seem impossible. How can everyday people actually make the transition from employee to business owner? According to Jeremy Ames, a seasoned entrepreneur and financing innovator, the key lies in smarter, more accessible funding strategies. He highlights how retirement funds and SBA loans can be leveraged to buy or start businesses without the traditional roadblocks of capital. By demystifying these financial tools, he shows how thousands of aspiring owners have turned savings into startups. The impact has been transformative, creating opportunities for people who never thought business ownership was within reach. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Jeremy Ames, Co-founder and CEO of Guidant Financial, to talk about empowering everyday people through smart financing. You will learn how retirement funds can unlock business ownership, why SBA loans remain powerful, and how innovative financing structures fuel growth. Jeremy also shares lessons on scaling, resilience, and the future of AI in entrepreneurship.

Collin Stewart is the Founder and CEO of Predictable Revenue, a sales outsourcing company that helps B2B businesses build repeatable, scalable sales development teams. Under his leadership, Predictable Revenue has become a recognized leader in sales consulting, delivering over 10,000 booked meetings and scaling outbound sales for more than 55 companies. Recognized for his data-driven, practical approach to solving sales challenges, Collin also hosts the Predictable Revenue podcast, which boasts over 400 episodes. In this episode… Struggling to turn sales calls into paying customers can feel like hitting a wall, even when your tools and tactics seem solid. Many founders assume their scripts or CRMs are the problem. But could the real problem run deeper, with outbound sales success depending less on what you say and more on how well you listen? Collin Stewart, a seasoned entrepreneur and sales expert, discovered this lesson the hard way. He spent years building a CRM to compete with industry leaders, only to realize sales teams didn't need another tool — they needed clearer processes and better support. By asking questions instead of making assumptions, Collin aligned his solutions with real customer pain points and unlocked lasting growth. His advice is simple: listen closely to your customers before building anything. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Collin Stewart, Founder and CEO of Predictable Revenue, about effective outbound sales strategies. Collin explains how active listening drives better product–market fit and shares insights on nurturing early leads, avoiding over-automation, and landing your first customers on a tight budget.

Brennah Davis is the Founder of The Marketing Matchmakers, a service that helps small businesses connect with the right marketing agencies. With over a decade of experience running her own agency and scaling teams, she has developed a proven process for creating successful partnerships across North America and the Caribbean. Brennah combines her financial savvy and people-centered approach to build strong, mutually beneficial relationships. In this episode… The marketing world is changing fast, and many business owners struggle to keep up. With agencies making big promises and results often unclear, choosing the right partner can feel risky and overwhelming. Is there a better way to navigate the maze and find the right marketing partners without getting burned? Drawing on a decade of agency experience, Brennah Davis witnessed the common frustrations of mismatched expectations, unclear deliverables, and outright disappointments. This inspired her to create a more transparent and supportive process by founding The Marketing Matchmakers. She describes how her background — from a childhood shaped by entrepreneurial parents to running her own agencies — provided unique insights into both the business and relational aspects of marketing. Brennah's approach centers on deep, empathetic listening and asking probing questions to ensure a true understanding of a client's goals, rather than simply matching them with the most convenient agency. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Brennah Davis, Founder of The Marketing Matchmakers, about how she helps companies find the right marketing partners, what to watch out for when hiring an agency, and how clear communication can prevent costly mistakes. They also discuss the impact of AI on marketing and why Brennah believes transparency is key to lasting business relationships.

Desmond Clark is the President of Bear Down Logistics, a company that provides reliable freight and transportation services across the United States. He leads the team in delivering efficient supply chain solutions for businesses of all sizes. Before founding Bear Down Logistics, Desmond built a successful career in professional football as a former NFL tight end for the Chicago Bears. He now combines leadership skills from sports and business to drive growth and excellence in logistics. In this episode… Success on the field and in business doesn't happen by chance. It takes a clear vision, relentless preparation, and the ability to adapt when life throws unexpected challenges. How can the mindset that drives a professional athlete translate into winning strategies for life and entrepreneurship? According to Desmond Clark, a 12-year NFL veteran and Super Bowl competitor, it begins with committing to the process of greatness and executing consistently. He highlights how focusing on small, daily improvements creates long-term growth. His journey — from overcoming a tough childhood to thriving in professional sports and later navigating setbacks such as financial losses and career changes — illustrates the power of resilience and discipline. By treating both sports and business as a series of repeatable processes, he demonstrates that greatness is built one deliberate step at a time. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Desmond Clark, President of Bear Down Logistics, to discuss how the discipline of professional sports can drive entrepreneurial success. They explore how early-life adversity shaped Desmond's work ethic, how NFL lessons influenced his business mindset, and how consistent execution builds lasting results. Desmond also shares his "process of greatness" approach for thriving in logistics and beyond.