

Smart Business Revolution | Turn Relationships into Revenues | Networking | More Clients | Relationship Advice
John Corcoran
"Top 100 Small Business Podcasts 2014" -- Small Biz Trends. Former Clinton White House Writer John Corcoran shows you how to build relationships intelligently to get more clients, grow your income and advance your career. Discover how you can use win-win networking and intentional relationship-building with Influencers and VIPs, even if you "hate networking" or feel like you have "nothing to offer" people who are successful. Interviews with today's top entrepreneurs and authors such as Dan Pink, Michael Port, Gary Vaynerchuk, Marie Forleo and Guy Kawasaki, who reveal how they use relationships to grow their businesses and their incomes. Find out more at SmartBusinessRevolution.com.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 24, 2025 • 29min
Overcoming Entrepreneurial Setbacks and Building Sustainable Success With Adam Pontrelli
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.

Oct 22, 2025 • 32min
Becoming a Solo Mom and CEO With Yuko Tsuchida
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.

Oct 17, 2025 • 36min
From Hustler to Freight Innovator With Tristan Bordallo
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.

Oct 15, 2025 • 48min
Make Boards Work: How Marc Stöckli Helps Entrepreneurs Unlock Boardroom Value
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.

Oct 10, 2025 • 45min
Empowering Everyday People To Become Business Owners Through Smart Financing With Jeremy Ames
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.

Oct 8, 2025 • 37min
From Zero To Million-Dollar Sales With Collin Stewart
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.

Oct 3, 2025 • 31min
The Secret to Agency Matchmaking With Brennah Davis
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.

Oct 1, 2025 • 33min
From Football to Logistics: Principles of Winning in Life and Business With Desmond Clark
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.

Sep 26, 2025 • 37min
Why Stepping Outside Your Business Sparks Innovation and Resilience With Joaquin Cordero
Joaquin Cordero is the Founder and President of Lumen, a communications company that provides creative and advertising services including media commercialization, 360-degree agency work, BTL, print, and point-of-purchase services. He founded Lumen in 2009 in Guatemala, expanding it into El Salvador and Honduras and serving both local and global brands. Joaquin has also founded over eleven companies, and serves in leadership roles in the Entrepreneurs' Organization, including Global Board Director and EO Global Chair-Elect. In this episode… Stepping away from the day to day demands of your own company can feel risky when growth and stability are on the line. Yet some of the most successful entrepreneurs insist that leading beyond their business creates new energy and ideas. How can taking on outside leadership roles actually spark innovation and strengthen resilience? According to Joaquin Cordero, a global entrepreneurial leader, dedicating time to serve in volunteer leadership opens doors to fresh perspectives and powerful relationships. He highlights how working with peers who run their own companies forces you to lead by influence and build trust instead of relying on authority. This approach has helped him foster a stronger company culture and inspire long term loyalty among his team. Joaquin's experiences prove that growth often happens when you challenge yourself beyond your own organization. In this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast, John Corcoran speaks with Joaquin Cordero, Founder and President of Lumen, to talk about why stepping outside your business sparks innovation and resilience. They explore how serving in global leadership roles fuels personal and professional growth and how trust and collaboration transform company culture. Joaquin also shares lessons from navigating unexpected challenges and building long-term client relationships.

Sep 24, 2025 • 34min
Building Future-Proof Tech Skills With Ghazenfer Mansoor
Ghazenfer Mansoor is the CEO of Technology Rivers, a Virginia-based firm that helps startups and healthcare organizations build compliant, AI-powered software through a structured product strategy approach. Under his leadership, the company has developed nearly 60 apps across industries, with a focus on healthcare and AI-driven productivity. Originally from Pakistan, Ghazenfer's early adoption of emerging technologies such as Java led to a career in the US, pioneering roles in mobile app development, and eventually founding Technology Rivers. He is also the author of Beyond the Download, where he shares practical strategies for app growth and innovation. In this episode… Staying ahead in a fast-changing tech world is no easy feat, especially when innovation often outpaces the ability to keep up. What does it take to transition from humble beginnings to making a real impact in the modern tech landscape? And with AI revolutionizing industries at breakneck speed, how do today's leaders prepare themselves and their teams for the opportunities and challenges that lie ahead? Ghazenfer Mansoor tackled these challenges head-on by embracing emerging trends before they hit the mainstream. Growing up in poverty in Pakistan, Ghazenfer leveraged unique educational opportunities to build a foundation in computers, then differentiated himself by mastering Java just as it was becoming a market disruptor. This decision not only opened doors to a career in the US during the dot-com boom but also allowed him to pivot successfully into mobile app development before the smartphone era exploded. Through lessons learned from his first startup, he pivoted to founding Technology Rivers, helping startups, especially in healthcare, develop compliant, AI-powered software. Currently, Ghazenfer focuses on leveraging AI tools to increase productivity tenfold, ensuring his team stays ahead by integrating the latest technologies into every layer of their workflow. Tune in to this episode of the Smart Business Revolution Podcast as John Corcoran interviews Ghazenfer Mansoor, CEO of Technology Rivers, about building a future-proof career in technology. Ghazenfer shares strategies for spotting emerging trends, integrating AI into technical and non-technical roles, and differentiating yourself in a competitive marketplace. He also explores continuous learning, productivity, and creating apps that users truly love and keep.


