Charlotte Watts is a resilient entrepreneur who turned her burnout and frustration into a thriving business. We spoke about the challenges of starting and growing a company, the personal sacrifices involved, and the mindset shifts that helped her navigate adversity and build success.Charlotte’s story is a testament to perseverance. From balancing a grueling work schedule with raising four children to battling cash flow crises and non-paying clients, her journey is filled with lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs. As she puts it, “The reality of what your first business plan is to the reality of that hits hard. And this is the point why businesses give up within the first year.”A few of the topics we explored include:The Breaking Point: How Charlotte realized she needed to leave her corporate job. “I thought, I can’t live my life like this. I’ve got these beautiful children. I’m making this company loads of money, but I don’t have a life.”Taking the Leap: Starting a business with no prior experience and learning on the go. “I had no clue about P&L sheets, registering with the tax man, or even setting up a company name.”Overcoming Early Challenges: The struggles of hiring her first employee and dealing with months of no bookings. “I took on my first nurse, and she didn’t get booked for three months. By this time, my money was really running out.”Battling Injustice: Navigating court battles and dealing with unethical business practices. “I had to go through a winding-up petition to finally get paid, and it took nine months.”The Power of Perseverance: Why resilience matters in entrepreneurship. “You have to keep going, even when it feels like the world is out to get you.”Key Takeaways:Be Prepared for the Unexpected: Success in business often requires handling unforeseen challenges, from cash flow issues to legal battles.Learn as You Go: You don’t need to know everything when you start, but you do need the willingness to learn and adapt.Find Your Support Network: Charlotte emphasizes the importance of having a "clan" to lean on. “You need people you can sound off to and share the load with.”Celebrate Small Wins: As Charlotte puts it, “The first booking was like, hallelujah.” These milestones keep you motivated.Charlotte’s journey proves that perseverance, self-belief, and a sense of humor can turn even the toughest challenges into stepping stones to success. If you’ve ever wondered whether you have what it takes to run a business, Charlotte’s story will inspire and empower you.

Matt Tait is on a mission to make entrepreneurship more manageable. We spoke about how adaptability, intentional leadership, and leveraging technology are key to running and growing a successful business in today’s ever-changing landscape.Drawing from his journey—from being a "recovering attorney" to leading Decimal, a tech-driven accounting company—Matt shared lessons learned from his winding entrepreneurial path. His upbringing in a family of entrepreneurs shaped his vision, but it was his failures and pivots, like running a restaurant tech company that “was a good idea but a terrible business,” that taught him resilience.We discussed the importance of adaptability, which Matt describes as "the number one characteristic of successful entrepreneurs." From recognizing personal weaknesses to building a complementary team, Matt emphasized that "you can't grow if you can't see what you need to improve." He also stressed the power of investing in a coach, saying, "A paid coach will give you that hard advice and reflection you need to understand where to grow."Key Takeaways:Adaptability is Essential: Entrepreneurs must embrace change, whether in scaling operations, managing a growing team, or integrating new technologies. "You have to admit you can't do it all," Matt explains.Self-Care Fuels Success: Matt’s daily routine of meditation and exercise supports his mental and physical health, enabling him to lead effectively. "Figure out what works for you," he advises, "and allow it to adapt as life changes."Build a Support Network: Loneliness in leadership is real. Matt encourages finding a peer group and investing in a coach to navigate challenges and maintain perspective.Lead with Intention: In a remote-first culture, leadership requires extra effort to build connections and foster growth. "Every employee is an island; it's our job to build bridges," Matt says.Through humor, honesty, and hard-earned wisdom, Matt reveals what it takes to navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship while staying true to your mission. Whether you're scaling your business or reflecting on how to improve as a leader, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you thrive.Explore Matt's journey and connect with his content on LinkedIn or through After the First Million podcast.

Kapil Dhiman is the visionary co-founder and CEO of Quranium, a company dedicated to building the next-generation quantum-secure infrastructure for a decentralized future. In this episode, we explored the urgent need for blockchain evolution as computational threats grow and security risks increase. Kapil shares his journey from consulting at PwC to leading a team that aims to safeguard the future of digital assets against emerging quantum computing risks.Our conversation covered Kapil’s unique path, his break from the corporate world to rediscover purpose, and how he ultimately found a calling in the convergence of quantum computing and blockchain technology. “Our digital infrastructure, the digital world that we rely heavily on today, everything is digital… is going to be shaken,” he notes, emphasizing the precarious state of existing security protocols.Throughout the episode, Kapil introduces three innovative layers that Uranium is developing to enhance blockchain scalability, security, and interconnectivity. His goal? To establish a secure, quantum-resistant network that stands the test of time—an infrastructure where even “machine-to-machine” interactions can happen seamlessly and securely. He provides real insights into the architectural groundwork and the vision guiding his team of over 120 specialists across three continents.Some key takeaways from the episode include:Security Gaps in Blockchain: Kapil reveals how current blockchain security protocols are insufficient for the future, explaining, “The encryption that secures all these blockchains was invented in 1985, and it’s not enough anymore.”Quantum Computing and the Threats Ahead: With computational power evolving, Kapil warns that blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum face a ticking clock, vulnerable to quantum-era hacks.Building for the Next Era: Discover how Uranium’s proof-of-work and block DAG layers are designed to address both scalability and security, creating “a Bitcoin which is now quantum secure and 10x faster.”Finally, we discussed Quranium’s roadmap, culminating in the launch of their test net on November 15—a “historic moment for the decentralized world.” To learn more and witness the future of blockchain security, visit uranium.org, and connect with Kapil Dhiman on LinkedIn for the latest on this groundbreaking project.

Join Dr. Thomas Cowan, a retired medical doctor and author, as he unpacks the flaws in modern health beliefs. He questions the existence of viruses, asserting no solid evidence backs their causal role in diseases. Cowan contrasts true science with belief systems, emphasizing the dangers of untested claims. He also discusses personal health sovereignty, advising against fear-based narratives that undermine self-trust. Additionally, he differentiates genuine entrepreneurship from coercive, government-supported ventures, advocating for innovation that truly meets societal needs.

Ken Lundin, Founder & CEO of RevHeat, is a seasoned sales strategist who has lived through the highs and lows of building, losing, and rebuilding companies. We spoke about the most critical mistakes CEOs and business leaders make when trying to scale their sales teams and what it takes to fix them. Ken shared insights from decades of experience, including growing a company from $2M to $78M in just four years and recovering from the personal devastation of bankruptcy to help over 60 companies worldwide transform their sales processes.One of the standout points from our discussion was Ken's observation that "50% of salespeople don’t even have the skill sets to succeed in your industry or in sales at all." This stark reality underscores the need for CEOs to move beyond gut feelings and implement science-driven approaches to sales.We explored the seismic shifts in sales dynamics since 2020, the importance of mindset in leadership and sales success, and the dangers of relying on 'product-led growth' without robust systems in place. Ken emphasized that "sales is 75% science and 25% art," explaining how the right processes can create consistent results while leaving room for individual excellence.Key takeaways from the episode include:Why the average head of sales only lasts 18 months and how to avoid the costly revolving door.The necessity of understanding “the 21 core selling competencies” to objectively evaluate your sales team's potential.How to build the perfect salesperson by balancing mindset, willpower, and tactical skills.Practical steps to implement a sales system that turns chaos into predictable, scalable growth.Ken also offered a compelling case study: a struggling company on the brink of bankruptcy grew by 122% in just 18 months and eventually sold for over $50M, all by combining “process with the artist's touch.”If you’re a CEO or leader grappling with the challenges of scaling sales and fostering a high-performing team, this episode is packed with actionable insights and real-world wisdom you don’t want to miss.

Garrett Delph is a seasoned entrepreneur and founder of Clarity Ops, a boutique consulting firm specializing in transformational breakthroughs for small and medium-sized businesses. With 25 years of experience building three international businesses and hiring over 550 employees, Garrett has mastered navigating the "messy middle" of entrepreneurship. In our conversation, we explored his proven strategies for overcoming disorganization and building a foundation for sustainable growth through the three essential pillars he calls P3: People, Process, and Performance.Garrett began by addressing the stark reality: "Nine in ten businesses fail because they’re disorganized and don’t understand how to succeed." Drawing from his bootstrapped journey, he shared practical solutions for tackling complexity and building a resilient organization. Here’s what we covered:People: “Great people perform at their best when they’re led and cared for well.” Garrett emphasized starting with core values: “Figure out what you believe… it sets the stage for culture.” He also revealed actionable steps, like creating career paths for employees to visualize their growth and succession planning to ensure business continuity when top talent moves on. "When your great people leave—and they will—you need their knowledge documented for the next person to step in seamlessly."Process: Clear and efficient processes are non-negotiable for success. Garrett shared how Clarity Ops developed tools like the SOP Journey Map, a “living doc” that replaces cumbersome 30-page manuals with concise, actionable workflows. “It’s fast, easy, and eliminates inefficiency,” he said, stressing the importance of well-mapped processes for guaranteed outcomes.Performance: "Without accountability, we fall into chaos." Garrett explained how businesses can track and optimize performance with tools like culture surveys and churn calculators. “You’ll uncover gold—even if some of it’s hard to hear—and it will make you better.”As a special gift to podcast listeners, Garrett is offering a free 60-minute problem-solving session to address your most pressing business challenges. "We'll evaluate a couple of your problems, and I'll provide a solution on how to solve those problems at the end of 60 minutes. Just mention the name of the podcast," Garrett shared.He wrapped up the conversation with a thought-provoking reminder inspired by Steve Jobs: "The problem with most businesses is they don't think deeply about their business; they think superficially. If you want to win, think deeply. Think deeply about organizing and architecting your business for strength and scale, which will give you the growth and the win that you're looking for."This episode is packed with actionable insights and practical tools for founders and leaders looking to overcome chaos and build thriving organizations.

Isaac Saul is a seasoned political journalist and founder of Tangle News. We spoke about his journey from feeling disillusioned with traditional media to building a platform designed to provide a balanced, nuanced approach to political news. Isaac’s mission is bold yet simple: to offer a space where readers can engage with perspectives from the left, right, and center on divisive issues—all in one place.During the conversation, Isaac shared his insights on what’s broken in mainstream news and why many organizations fail to bridge the political divide. He explained his innovative model: a subscription-driven business that gives away 80-90% of its content for free, trusting that quality and transparency will convert readers into paying subscribers. "I want people to see more of our content, because I know we have really good content," he said, emphasizing the importance of building trust over time.Isaac also described the mental and operational challenges of running a small but impactful newsroom. With a team of just five, Tangle tackles the monumental task of presenting unbiased reporting while staying true to its values. "The longer people read Tangle, the better they are at changing their minds, being open-minded, and having charitable perspectives," Isaac explained, illustrating the transformative effect of thoughtful engagement with diverse viewpoints.Key takeaways from this episode include:Why transparency matters: Isaac highlighted the importance of "correcting the record when we're wrong" and showing readers the reasoning behind every conclusion.The subscription strategy that works: Tangle converts 15-20% of its readers into paid subscribers—far above the industry average—by prioritizing trust over quick paywalls.How to stay sustainable: Isaac’s personal practices, like disconnecting from news on weekends and prioritizing team collaboration, offer a blueprint for avoiding burnout in high-pressure environments.The impact of balanced news: "People realize that the world is not black and white... It helps turn the temperature down," Isaac said, reflecting on how nuanced reporting can reduce polarization.This episode offers a unique perspective on reshaping the media landscape, building a mission-driven business, and fostering open-mindedness in an era of increasing division.

Magda and Jason Schappert are a dynamic entrepreneurial couple and the founders of Moola, a groundbreaking financial tool that turns earnings into a foundation for financial freedom. From humble beginnings—crawling under houses in Florida summers and navigating life as an immigrant—to building an eight-figure business, their journey exemplifies resilience and innovation. We discussed their path to success, the lessons learned along the way, and how Moola’s blend of AI automation and timeless financial principles helps users achieve money goals faster and build lasting financial freedom.Jason shared how his teenage years, spent spraying bugs in mansions, fueled his curiosity about wealth and success. “I built this early association that successful people read a lot—they're learners,” he explained. Meanwhile, Magda reflected on her experience overcoming cultural and language barriers as an immigrant from Mallorca, Spain. "It's in the moments of decision that your destiny is shaped," she said, recounting her journey to the United States with a tennis scholarship and big dreams.Their early struggles with money shaped their innovative approach to financial literacy and management. They discovered that financial success isn’t about having more money—it’s about making smarter decisions. “You either know how to play the game, or you will be played,” Magda emphasized.Key Takeaways from This Episode:Mindset Matters: Success starts with curiosity and learning. Jason’s mantra, “Small seeds grow into big trees,” highlights the power of consistent effort.Financial Literacy is Essential: Jason pointed out, “Big banks make a ton of money off overdraft fees and ignorance.” Understanding money management is key to breaking free from financial struggles.Teamwork Fuels Growth: From running an aviation business to launching Moola, the Schapperts’ success shows the power of shared goals and aligned missions.Moola, their latest venture, embodies their passion for teaching and entrepreneurship. It simplifies investing, automates savings, and empowers users to make smarter financial decisions. As Magda aptly put it: “Money is an amazing tool to make you more of what you really are.”Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned business owner, or simply someone aiming to take control of your finances, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiration.

Jeremy Jenson is the founder and CEO of Encore Search Partners, a direct hire recruiting firm, and we spoke about the journey of scaling his business while maintaining balance and purpose. Jeremy openly shares the challenges he faced as an entrepreneur, from struggling to grow without sacrificing family life to navigating economic shifts that tested his leadership and strategy.One of Jeremy's turning points came in 2017 when he implemented the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS) and brought in an integrator. "I had to get out of my own way," he admits, acknowledging the impact of relinquishing control to drive growth. With EOS, his business achieved 10x growth by establishing clear mission, vision, and core values, which helped align his team and attract top talent.We explore the mindset shifts required to thrive during economic downturns, where Jeremy emphasizes the importance of hiring A players who can self-generate business. He shares, "If we capitalize on a slow and depressed economic market... that's going to allow us to steal a tremendous amount of market share." Jeremy also discusses his approach to 'top-grading' his team, seeking professionals who bring fresh ideas and can evolve the company’s culture and capabilities.Key takeaways from this episode include:Scaling with EOS: How implementing EOS and hiring an integrator transformed Jeremy’s business, allowing him to work less while increasing revenue.Top-Grading Talent: Jeremy explains why entrepreneurs should constantly bring in new talent with "a fresh set of ideas, right? New processes, new skills," and not rely solely on existing employees for growth.Building a Performance Culture: By fostering a sports-team mindset, Jeremy ensures his team stays competitive and avoids complacency. "If you've been on the team for five years and you're not focused on growth... some new guy is going to come in and steal your starting spot."Navigating Down Markets: Jeremy's strategy for turning economic slowdowns into opportunities by hiring top talent from competitors, preparing for the next market upswing with a stronger team.Leading with Authenticity: The value of vulnerability and transparency in leadership. Jeremy discloses challenges, such as financial downturns or difficult decisions, to his team, which he says builds "tremendous trust and rapport with our high performers."Jeremy’s insights offer a roadmap for entrepreneurs looking to not only grow their businesses but also foster a resilient and high-performing team. This episode is packed with actionable advice for leaders aiming to scale without sacrificing their values or personal lives.

Cary Sparrow, Founder, CEO at WageScape, is an experienced leader who saw a major problem in the business world: a lack of transparent, real-time labor market data. We spoke about his journey from engineering and corporate IT to founding Wagescape, with a mission to bridge the gap in hiring, pay, and talent retention. Cary explained, “Companies live and die by their access to high-quality talent,” highlighting the need for businesses to understand current market trends to attract and keep top talent.The episode covers how real-time data is revolutionizing recruitment, enabling businesses to move beyond outdated or broad-stroke pay information. Cary pointed out that typical data is “18 months prior to when you need it” and therefore irrelevant in today’s fast-moving market. His solution? A dynamic approach that allows companies to see “who’s hiring, what they’re hiring for, and what they’re paying,” giving a competitive edge in workforce strategy.Cary also addresses how organizations can use this intelligence strategically: “Imagine a situation where you can see everything about the hiring practices of your competitors.” From adjusting pay in real-time to proactively managing talent retention, this level of transparency allows businesses to anticipate, not just react.Key takeaways from our conversation include:The Power of Real-Time Data: How real-time insights reveal crucial trends in hiring, pay, and talent availability.Strategic Advantage: The ability to see granular, location-specific pay data and adjust hiring and retention strategies based on precise market movements.Beyond AI Hype: Cary discusses AI’s role in the labor market, emphasizing that while AI assists in efficiency, the real focus should be on reliable, locally sourced data as the basis for any decisions.For leaders wanting to understand how to adapt hiring strategies in today’s unpredictable labor landscape, this conversation offers valuable insights and actionable takeaways. Listen in to learn how Cary’s approach to labor market transparency could redefine your talent management strategy.