
Empowering Entrepreneurs
Join Glenn Harper and Julie Smith as they help you build your brand and gain confidence as an entrepreneur. Explore key topics like business growth, mentorship, and overcoming challenges. Their guests bring intriguing and entertaining clarity to help you increase your confidence in building your business (and enjoy your journey doing it). Drive your passion, grow your business, and empower your journey today!
Latest episodes

Sep 20, 2023 • 1h 3min
Strategic Decision-Making and Long-Term Goals in Entrepreneurship
WSJ Best Selling Author of Wonderhell. Motivator. Instigator. Provocateur. As she says, "I get people unstuck."Laura Gassner Otting spent two decades working in executive search, where she discovered an important truth - people only move for two reasons: love or money. Whether it's the love of someone or the potential for financial gain, these are the driving forces behind relocation. And it was no different for Laura when she made a life-changing decision based on both love and money. Lured by an opportunity and with her partner having a job, Laura made a bold move towards a new chapter in her life.In this episode, Laura dives deep into her journey as an entrepreneur, sharing valuable lessons and insights that every business owner should hear. Here are three key Empowering Takeaways to get you inspired:1️⃣ Envision Your Ideal Life: Laura reminds us of the importance of envisioning the lifestyle we want and creating a business that supports it. By determining the cost of our desired lifestyle, we can reevaluate our business size and prioritize our goals accordingly.2️⃣ Building a Purpose-Driven Culture: Laura's "St. Martin manifesto" emphasizes the need for clear guidelines and values that dictate company culture. By incentivizing the right behavior and nurturing a supportive community, entrepreneurs can create a happier and more productive work environment.3️⃣ Leveraging Strategic Thinking: As entrepreneurs, we must identify the highest and best use of our time. Delegating tasks and empowering our team to suggest solutions allows us to focus on strategic thinking and growth, ultimately driving long-term success.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments04:54 Chose college for social life and location.09:43 Fast forward: dating, marriage, career advice, campaign trail.15:00 Learning to be somebody: build, don't abuse.16:04 Big fee influences time allocation; smaller ones neglected.24:07 Entrepreneurs often grow without strategic thinking.30:23 Entrepreneurs must be careful with finances.33:19 Allocate funds, determine desired lifestyle, build business.42:26 Husband helps hire CPA; freedom and growth.47:50 Price of getting it wrong, do it right, damage is real. Clear citizenship guidelines, no BS sales commission. Good work brings more work, outlined guidelines.48:44 Bonuses given for performance and citizenship.55:37 The importance of managing expectations when working.59:09 Building platform, moving people, creating movements.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Sep 12, 2023 • 46min
The Power of Asking for Help to Build a Successful Business
In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting the remarkable Jackie Meyer, a visionary tax strategist and the founder of a highly successful tax advisory firm. Jackie's journey from a traditional approach to a trailblazing entrepreneur will inspire and motivate you to create the business of your dreams.We dive into Jackie's transformative experiences. From seeking guidance from a business coach to developing unique packages for high-net-worth entrepreneurs, Jackie set out on a path that quadrupled her firm's revenue and allowed her to focus on clients who align with her vision.But it doesn't stop there. Jackie shares her strategies for reducing work hours and embracing a flexible lifestyle, all while creating an entirely virtual and paperless business long before the COVID-19 pandemic. She also reveals how a life-changing event compelled her to prioritize family and the importance of building a business that supports personal values.Throughout this episode, you'll discover Jackie's philosophy on the power of trust and empowerment, not only in her own business but also in the entrepreneurial community at large. She encourages listeners to lean on the vast resources available and seek support from fellow entrepreneurs. Jackie's insights will leave you inspired to make proactive decisions and take action, rather than waiting for circumstances to force your hand.So, grab your headphones and prepare for an insightful conversation with Jackie Meyer as we explore her journey of transforming her business, overcoming challenges, and leaving a lasting impact on the accounting industry.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments00:19 Jackie Meyer - CPA turned tax planning entrepreneur.04:26 Born in Austin, raised in College Station. Attended A&M, then moved to DFW for undergrad and further studies in Virginia Beach.08:43 Contentious work environment leads to termination.10:14 Traditional tax planner finds success with niche clients.15:48 Health problems led to life-altering changes.16:42 Entrepreneurs often procrastinate, but eventually make necessary decisions to avoid regret and struggles. Trust and empower others for better outcomes.23:15 Courage leads to success in entrepreneurship.26:09 Sister's accident changed my perspective on work.29:29 Impressive growth story of Greg O'Brien at Go CPAs.33:22 Resources and support are available for entrepreneurs.37:38 Transition from doing business to building business.38:36 Transition to entrepreneurship brings multiple challenges (7 words)Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Sep 6, 2023 • 52min
The Key to Effective Time Management for Entrepreneurs
Megan Sumrell, founder of The Pink Bee, joins hosts Glenn Harper and Julie Smith to discuss her time management framework and how it empowers entrepreneurs. Megan shares her nine core components of time management, with a particular focus on setting boundaries. By clearly communicating and establishing boundaries, entrepreneurs can manage their time more effectively and set expectations for others. Megan provides three options for people to ask questions and sets specific core hours for response, reducing anxiety and providing clarity for new customers. The importance of maintaining a separation between personal and work time is also emphasized.Megan's expertise in time management and annual planning comes from her participation in high-level masterminds with successful entrepreneurs. She emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to determine how many hours they want to work and how much money they want to earn. By challenging their team to increase revenue and profit margins without working more hours, entrepreneurs can prioritize time freedom and financial freedom over simply building a multi-million dollar business. Megan emphasizes the importance of aligning revenue goals with personal values and long-term life plans.Learn how to effectively manage your time, set boundaries, and achieve both personal and professional success.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments02:38 Limited history, but cool university experience.05:57 Graduated, disliked first job, got lucky break.09:27 Entrepreneur finds passion in time management system.15:10 Journey led to success; don't sacrifice everything.18:30 Find ultimate client, help, impact, engage.21:28 Work life balance is a recipe for disaster. Instead, aim for work life harmony by being fully present in each role and having purpose in your life. Shift from daily task lists to weekly planning to better manage time and maximize efficiencies.27:39 Program your phone to only notify you when necessary.31:18 Establish boundaries and communicate expectations for time management.33:03 Solopreneur turned team with flexible work hours.37:37 Strategic planning brings freedom for entrepreneurs.42:16 Supporting time management, setting lifestyle and financial goals.46:26 Inspiration from Masterminds, family, and childhood.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Aug 16, 2023 • 1h 1min
Not Your Typical Leadership Guru
Have you ever lost everything? Our latest episode of the podcast features a story of risk, loss, and eventual transformation. Chad Brown formed a real estate firm with a partner and several investors before the 2008 economic crisis hit, causing them to lose every single investment. This led to not only a deep depression but financial struggles that affected his personal finances as well.Chad's story highlights the importance of self-discovery and feedback to identify blind spots and ignored issues within ourselves. Excuses weaken character, but taking responsibility is emphasized in the self-discovery process. By using this methodology, Chad transformed a financial planner’s life from complaining about his team's lack of dedication to becoming more attentively focused on his employees.Chad primarily works with small and medium-sized business founders, helping them navigate, manage, and lead their businesses effectively. He believes it's important to have people in our lives that give honest feedback, even when it feels uncomfortable.If you want to learn more about the speaker's methods and insights, we suggest starting with Naked Leadership Podcast hosted by Chad, Adrian, and Dan. In Episode Episode 145, This Is How We Do Confrontation, you'll see how Chad and his team process and work through tough situations.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments09:10 "Knocking doors taught me business and maturity"20:54 "Real Estate Greed: From Riches to Ruin"24:12 "From Real Estate to Filmmaking: A Journey"27:56 "The Downward Spiral of Leadership: A Journey"31:38 Transformational moment that changed a life.37:28 "Transforming Small-Medium Founders' Culture with Fluidity"41:13 "Unlocking Self-Discovery: The Path to Success"50:46 The Importance of Truth-Telling in Relationships54:35 "Creating Fulfillment: The Gift of Business"56:56 "Navigating Difficult Conversations: Hear How We Do It"Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Aug 1, 2023 • 54min
Work Less, Earn More: Letting Go and Trusting in Business
On this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, we have the pleasure of hosting Nikki Rausch, the Sales Maven. Nikki shares her journey from not initially aspiring to be an entrepreneur due to witnessing financial struggles in her family's tool store, to unintentionally embarking on her entrepreneurial path. She found her calling in teaching people how to sell and started her own business after not landing a sales job.Nikki talks about her realization that something was missing in her life while working in the tech industry and attending trade shows. This led her to leave her job, interview in a different industry, and discover a passion for networking with passionate entrepreneurs. Recognized for her sales skills, Nikki was encouraged to pursue it as a business.One of Nikki's biggest fears as an entrepreneur was feeling like she had nothing unique to say. She overcame this fear by giving talks at various events to refine her message and found that discussing buying signals resonated with the audience. She wrote a book on the topic and focuses on doubling down on topics that resonate with people.The hardest part for entrepreneurs, according to Nikki, is feeling like they have to do everything themselves. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing one's weaknesses, empowering others, and giving up control. While it can be a risk, relinquishing control often leads to positive experiences and growth.Nikki's business was successful but required a significant amount of her time. However, a mentor challenged her belief that she had to work harder to achieve more success. This led her to pare down her offers and create a group coaching program called the sales management society. By putting the content behind a paid wall, Nikki freed up more time in her business and saw an increase in her income.Throughout her journey, Nikki recognized the importance of mentors. From her grandfather to mentors in high school and her sales career, they have all played a significant role in her success. She also highlights the value of investing in support, such as hiring an online business manager and an assistant to manage overwhelming email volume.With her expertise in sales, presentation skills, and background in neurolinguistic programming (NLP), Nikki has built a successful business. She shares how her style resonated with audiences early on, leading to growth and recognition.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments04:25 Early work experience, learning and earning money.08:35 Reluctantly became entrepreneur after unexpected job rejection.10:25 Mentors shaped me, made me successful.14:06 Sales professional combines presentations, NLP training.17:52 Tech worker finds passion in entrepreneurship, sales.23:45 Trial and error led to entrepreneurial success.28:36 Nothing unique until speaking about buying signals.35:05 Restructured business, created group coaching program. Increased income, reduced workload.39:26 Delegate tech and email to save time.43:48 Empower, trust, and give up control issues.45:21 Grateful for team, support, and progress.49:54 "Love, appreciate, impact, forever, double down"Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Jul 25, 2023 • 42min
Military Precision Meets Accounting
On this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, Glenn and Julie are joined by special guest Alan "Blake" Blakeborough, co-founder of Tax Titans. Tax Titans is a company that specializes in helping small businesses and individuals with tax filings, and it is staffed by veterans or spouses of veterans. During the episode, Blake discusses the lack of networking opportunities for solo practitioners and small firms in the accounting industry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and camaraderie. Drawing from their military experience, Blake compares the sense of teamwork and support in the military to the need for entrepreneurs to persevere and rely on others to achieve their goals. Blake reflects on his upbringing, including their father's entrepreneurial journey and the lessons they learned about adaptability and handling setbacks. They also touch on the importance of finding like-minded individuals who share the same vision when assembling a team. Additionally, Blake shares his motivation for creating Tax Titans, which stemmed from a need for a platform that allows accountants to connect and work together without the fear of losing clients. They discuss the company's focus on providing a succession plan for solo practitioners and developing a secure platform for accountants to collaborate.Throughout the episode, Glenn and Julie delve into various topics with Blake, including his military background, his experience with Drake Software, and the impact of his work with military spouses and veterans. Blake shares his perspective on the value of not quitting and the importance of creating opportunities for underemployed and underappreciated individuals.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments05:26 High school law presentation inspired FBI career.08:58 Fencing demonstration sparked passion for entrepreneurial pursuit.10:15 Vietnam vet became entrepreneur despite job rejection.14:27 Challenges faced in innovating sports training methods.19:41 Accountant paralyzed by indecision, leadership origins questioned.21:39 Solo practitioners lack professional support network, hindering collaboration.24:09 Fintech allows sharing work while maintaining relationships.29:25 Accountants lack succession plans, platform offers solution.31:44 Accountants build strong client relationships even in retirement.37:43 Military upbringing shaped attitude and work ethic.38:47 Private equity firm buys company, offers retirement.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Jul 18, 2023 • 47min
Diverse Perspectives and Networking: Lessons for Entrepreneurs
On this episode of Empowering Entrepreneurs, Glenn and Julie invite special guest Michael Hsu to share his journey as a successful entrepreneur. Michael emphasizes the importance of learning from successful individuals who have already navigated similar paths and the value of networking and building connections.Michael reflects on his initial foray into accounting, which was initially driven by his mother's persuasion, only to realize it wasn't the right path for him. However, he persevered, starting his first business as a CFO company. The discussion delves into Michael's transition from a sole entrepreneur to building a business that involves employing others and establishing systems and processes. He emphasizes the importance of expanding one's network and being known by others, highlighting the crucial role networking plays in an entrepreneur's success.Throughout the episode, Michael shares personal anecdotes and stories that influenced his mindset, such as his dream of building a school for children who dislike traditional education. He believes education is a powerful tool to escape poverty and aims to create a school that helps people upscale themselves and change their mindset.The conversation also touches upon the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of support communities, and the need for encouragement for aspiring entrepreneurs. He shares his philosophy, encapsulated by a bracelet with the phrase "remember you will die," which serves as a daily reminder to live life to the fullest and pursue one's goals.Michael's journey exemplifies the resilience and determination required to succeed as an entrepreneur.Measure X HackDeepSkyThis episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering Moments00:07 Entrepreneur Michael Sue teaches financial literacy.05:59 "I was tricked into accounting, but passionate."10:05 Desire for money, then passion for success.12:26 Entrepreneurs have a different perspective on life. Their stress is driven by personal goals rather than outside expectations. They often feel misunderstood and lack a community to share their ideas. Measure X Hack aims to provide that community.14:09 Dreamed of building school for reluctant students.18:51 Quit job, started outsourcing bookkeeping, thirst for learning.20:57 Rapid changes in industry, diverse perspectives important.26:47 Entrepreneurship is difficult, but support is available.29:45 Encouragement for hesitant entrepreneurs - resources available.33:34 Believing, lists, money, progress, small wins, success.38:25 Creating a lasting legacy in entrepreneurship.41:26 Plenty of lessons learned from past experiences.43:47 No wrong answer, take chances, learn from failure.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper

Jul 5, 2023 • 56min
Succeeding in Business Without Losing Yourself
Zack Geist is our guest. He is the founder and owner of Student Loan Tutor, the US's largest student loan advisory company.Zach shares his journey to entrepreneurship and how books inspired him to achieve success. He stresses the importance of finding one's sufficiency number and how serving others is personal sufficiency. Zach discusses his experiences with networking marketing, selling something they didn't have, and overcoming rejection. He also talks about his dedication to serving clients, their spiritual ambitions, and their aversion to underpaying people. Listeners will gain insight into navigating the financial matrix, playing an infinite game, and balancing personal financial goals with being generous.Empowering Moments04:06 86-acre sustainable farm grows diverse tropical fruits.08:42 Entrepreneurship selling candy, rough upbringing, not fast-paced.10:50 Childhood struggle leads to smart work decision.13:56 18-year-old earns big, no college education.17:48 Smooth talking leads to high closing rate.20:37 Strive for morally neutral impact on society.25:33 Books, Robert Kiyosaki, Anthony Robbins influential mentors.28:15 Struggled with dishonesty, but stayed true.32:28 Financial success led to loss of friendships.34:41 Financial success breeds desire to overspend uncontrollably.36:59 Struggle of navigating success and generosity.42:24 Prioritize sharing experiences and planning for success.44:00 Constantly improving lifestyle and financial impact globally.49:10 Struggling to manage sudden wealth, found spiritual enlightenment.51:28 Learning, untangling, and moving on with coffee.53:34 Saved millions, especially for entrepreneurs, through holistic finance.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering TakeawaysEntrepreneurs should surround themselves with people of integrity and not just 'yes' people to maintain success and find trusted advisors.Assemble a supportive team early in the entrepreneurial journey, ideally even before achieving financial success, to benefit from consistent support and guidance.Balancing generosity and experiences with responsible financial management to preserve wealth and fulfill responsibilities.Entrepreneurs from less affluent backgrounds may have a stronger impulse to succeed due to their circumstances, contrasting with those who come from wealth and have different types of challenges.Pursue businesses that are morally neutral, address a need, and offer opportunities for scaling and flexible work, to ensure long-term success.The importance of passion in what you're selling, and the challenge of turning hobbies into profitable businesses.Learning to work smart, not just hard, by leveraging other people's efforts where possible, as exemplified by Zach Geist's early experiences in entrepreneurship.Recognize the value of sufficiency and gratitude in life and business and knowing one's sufficiency number to balance personal goals with the aim to serve others.Engaging in the 'infinite game' of continuous improvement, aligning personal finances with soulful work, and making a positive impact on future generations.Fear of rejection is common among entrepreneurs, but developing resilience and a mindset that welcomes rejection can be pivotal to sales success and overall entrepreneurial growth.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harperhttps://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Jun 21, 2023 • 45min
CBD, Entrepreneurship, and Fighting the Opioid Crisis
We get an inspiring glimpse into the world of entrepreneurship with Pamela Katz, the founder of Your CBD Haven. Pamela shares her journey of starting her own business and educating people about the benefits of CBD. With her passion for helping people and her background in advertising and marketing, she has managed to create a comfortable haven for her customers while inspiring older folks to pursue their dreams and start their own businesses. She emphasizes the importance of branding, marketing, and building relationships with people to succeed in any business. This episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to start their own business or seeking inspiration to pursue their passions.Empowering Moments03:43 Deliberate move to Atlanta for work.07:07 Worked in marketing for medical device company.10:00 Frustrated with career fit and fulfillment.14:10 CBD helped alleviate work stress and anxiety.17:26 Challenges in CBD industry, limited advertising options.20:43 Inspiring people to pursue dreams despite age.24:08 Lessons in career, relationships, and business flexibility.27:00 Fulfillment work values praise and networking efforts.29:40 Challenges of letting go and delegating.33:18 CBD works for pets, not just placebo.38:42 University of Georgia supports small business networking.40:27 Entrepreneurship is a terrifying but rewarding journey.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering TakeawaysSuccessfully transitioned from a corporate career in advertising and medical device marketing to running her own CBD store. Her journey underscores the potential to find fulfillment outside of the corporate world.Inspired by the opioid crisis, Pamela's store, Your CBD Haven, focuses on providing solutions for chronic pain and stress relief through CBD products.A pivotal moment of personal experience with CBD pain cream led Pamela to delve deeper into the CBD industry, showing how personal anecdotes can spark professional ventures.Despite facing regulatory challenges, Pamela prioritized educating the public about the legality and benefits of CBD, showing the importance of consumer education in niche markets.Pamela emphasizes that joy and determination are key to overcoming the fears and societal expectations that often accompany entrepreneurial ventures.Pamela aims to inspire older individuals to pursue entrepreneurship, challenging the notion that age is a barrier to achieving new business dreams.Pamela stresses the need for continual learning and self-improvement, noting that staying relevant and adapting in a rapidly changing business landscape is crucial.She highlights the importance of utilizing support networks like the local Chamber of Commerce and resources such as the University of Georgia's small business association.Pamela's superpower lies in building strong relationships, both with her customers and within her community, creating a comfortable and consultative sales environment.Pamela openly discusses the challenges of marketing, social media reluctance, delegating tasks, and the importance of stepping out of one's comfort zone—all essential elements for business growth.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/

Jun 7, 2023 • 57min
Mentorship, Mental Health, and Making an Impact Through Art
Entrepreneurship is a challenging but rewarding journey and for those looking to embark on this path, having a support system and a clear sense of purpose is crucial. With a focus on the importance of finding one's passion and purpose, guest Marc Scheff from Marc Scheff Coaching shares his journey from the tech industry to coaching and art, and emphasizes the importance of finding one's passion and purpose in life. This podcast is a must-listen for anyone looking to embark on the challenging and rewarding journey of entrepreneurship.Empowering Moments05:23 High school art passion defied parental expectations.07:02 Tech industry crashes, artist takes art class.10:07 Teacher who supported and trusted, remained influential.13:35 20 years in art and coaching, big changes.19:38 Facing struggles helped me grow and learn.20:32 Transitioning to entrepreneurship involves overcoming societal conditioning.26:22 Book delves into myth of brain dominance.27:08 Studied computer science but value creative thinking.32:38 Take small steps for exponential impact over time.36:12 Discovery sessions for uncovering clients' deeper purpose.38:32 Encouraging others to pursue their passions and impact.41:30 Creating community through entrepreneurship advice podcast.43:30 Access to information fosters entrepreneurial opportunities.47:52 Explore feelings, not just business strategies.50:55 Fulfilling purpose by unleashing creativity with clients.53:33 Make small steps towards your vision.This episode is brought to you by PureTax, LLC. Tax preparation services without the pressure. When all you need is to get your tax return done, take the stress out of tax season by working with a firm that has simplified the process and the pricing. Find out more about how we started.Empowering TakeawaysSmall, deliberate changes can lead to significant transformations over time. Entrepreneurs don't need to revolutionize their operations overnight; calculated, incremental steps can be more sustainable and effective.Having the right support network can be a determiner of success for entrepreneurs. Ideal clients as those who are willing to step outside their comfort zones to make a meaningful impact. Entrepreneurs often find growth at the edge of their comfort zones, and it's important to be open to experiencing discomfort for the sake of progress.Individuals can harness both creative and analytical aspects of their minds. This balance is beneficial for entrepreneurs who need to innovate (creative thinking) while also strategically planning and analyzing data (analytical thinking).The emphasis on mentorship signifies its importance in personal and professional growth. Finding and establishing relationships with mentors can provide invaluable insights and guidance.Start working towards their big vision and purpose, even in small ways, rather than waiting for the "right moment" or a certain level of initial success.Addressing mental health, acknowledging discomfort, and facing struggles head-on can lead to improved personal wellbeing and subsequently better business decision-making.Understanding personal strengths, which Scheff humorously equates to being really good at organizing Tupperware, can be a superpower. Identifying and exercising one's unique abilities can lead to greater job satisfaction and impact.Providing access to creative tools for all can lead to major positive shifts in society, reducing fear-based decisions, and promoting resource equality.Pivotal moments in a career or life are not singular; it's a series of evolving experiences. Entrepreneurs should continuously seek new learning opportunities and remain open to change, as their journey is one of perpetual development.Running a business doesn’t have to run your life.Without a business partner who holds you accountable, it’s easy to be so busy ‘doing’ business that you don’t have the right strategy to grow your business.Stop letting your business run you. At Harper & Co CPA Plus, we know that you want to be empowered to build the lifestyle you envision. In order to do that you need a clear path to follow for successOur clients enjoy a proactive partnership with us. Schedule a consultation with us today.Download our free guide - Entrepreneurial Success Formula: How to Avoid Managing Your Business From Your Bank Account.Copyright 2025 Glenn Harper https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nd/4.0/