Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur | Start and Grow Your Own Business

Renowned workplace culture expert Shelia Matthews reveals the secrets to cultivating vibrant and thriving business environments in our latest episode of the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast. Shelia shares her remarkable journey from the realm of learning and development to becoming a pivotal figure in hiring and culture building. Discover how Shelia assesses knowledge, skills, and abilities before delving into cultural fit, ensuring that potential hires align with company values and contribute to sustained growth.Crafting effective job descriptions and attracting top talent are often stumbling blocks for entrepreneurs, and Shelia offers fresh insights into overcoming these challenges. Rather than relying solely on traditional benefits, she advocates for creative solutions like stipends and highlights the power of a strong workplace culture in attracting and retaining high-quality candidates. Smaller businesses, in particular, have the unique opportunity to leverage their environments to create a culture that draws in the best talent, setting the stage for long-term success.Navigating the complexities of remote team management is no small feat, and this episode provides actionable strategies to engage and motivate teams from afar. From recognizing achievements to hosting virtual social events, Shelia emphasizes the importance of consistent communication and alignment with company values.ABOUT SHELIAShelia Matthews is a workplace culture expert with a diverse career spanning transportation, manufacturing, and services industries. She's worked for companies like UPS and MetLife, and scaled startups like Acquisition.com. Shelia believes in creating environments where people and businesses thrive, emphasizing the importance of understanding each business to craft a solid culture that translates into profitability. Outside work, Shelia enjoys family time in Atlanta with her husband, two kids, and their Boxer, Ranger. She stays active through gym sessions, travel, and hiking. Shelia holds an MBA from Colorado State University and a bachelor's in psychology from the University of North Florida. Recently, she founded Culture Pro, LLC, helping growing businesses develop effective People and Culture strategies through improved hiring processes, engagement, and communication.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit CulturePro’s WebsiteConnect with Shelia on LinkedIn

Ready to elevate your understanding of luxury brands and marketing? Our latest episode features the incredible Rolando Rojas, founder of Elliptic Marketing, who unveils the secrets behind creating memorable customer experiences. Inspired by a pivotal piece of advice from his father, Rolando transitioned from aspiring engineer to marketing maestro, specializing in the nuanced world of luxury brands. He shares a compelling personal story about the sound of a luxury car door closing, illustrating the power of small details in crafting a premium feel that resonates deeply with customers.Imagine transforming your marketing strategy with the simplest yet most effective communication techniques. Rolando provides firsthand insights from working with iconic brands like Christian Dior and Basecamp, where he mastered the art of clear, concise copy. By maintaining high standards and unwavering principles, Rolando has successfully built Elliptic Marketing on these foundational values. His tales of mentorship and risk-taking paint a vivid picture of how precise communication can drive both personal and professional growth. But that's not all! Rolando also shares his unique perspective as an immigrant in the business world, discussing how different cultural approaches can lead to success, especially in the luxury sector. Balancing efficiency while building personal relationships, Rolando's dual perspective is a winning formula for thriving in the competitive U.S. market. Plus, we touch on the compelling role of AI in marketing, affirming that while automation is useful, creativity remains a distinctly human forte. Join us for this enriching conversation that blends cultural insights with cutting-edge business acumen.ABOUT ROLANDORolando Rojas is the founder of Elliptic Marketing, a boutique marketing agency based in Miami that helps high-end brands provide elevated digital experiences to their customers.Before leading Elliptic Marketing, Rolando worked for iconic brands such as Christian Dior, Swatch Group, and Basecamp.He manages his company from South Florida, where he lives with his wife and one-year-old son.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Elliptic Marketing’s WebsiteConnect with Rolando on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how creativity can shape the tech world? Meet Nathaniel Buechler, an innovative entrepreneur who has seamlessly transitioned from graphic design to web application engineering. His journey illustrates the power of creativity in technology-driven projects and reveals how his latest venture, Revibe Life, is redefining community engagement. Nathaniel's user-centered approach links local talents and stories, turning social media into a constellation of human experiences. Tune in to discover how his platform is lighting up opportunities and fostering genuine connections.Nathaniel takes us on an explorative journey through the entrepreneurial landscape, sharing his strategic insights on building a network effect akin to platforms like Uber. He emphasizes the importance of agile methodologies and the solopreneur mindset, which fueled his transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship. His platform, Revibe Life, offers a mobile-first solution that maps and connects events to create vibrant, shared experiences. Nathaniel's vision is to craft a collaborative space where users grow together, embracing community over individuality.In the quest to enhance creativity and personal growth, Nathaniel explores the transformative role of AI as a collaborative partner. Tools like DALL-E and Runway ML are not just about innovation but about being companions in creativity, enhancing brainstorming and connectivity. Through Revibe Life, AI recommends events based on individual interests, fostering meaningful human connections. As we wrap up, Nathaniel invites listeners to engage with Revibe Life, emphasizing the importance of lifelong learning and the power of storytelling in entrepreneurship. Join us for a deep dive into how technology and creativity can lead to a fulfilling entrepreneurial journey.ABOUT NATHANIELNathaniel Buechler brings cross-disciplinary expertise web application engineering while leveraging AI tools to software and amazing visual experiences. In past roles, Nathaniel focused on addressing unique 21st-century challenges within enterprise and government sectors. Nathaniel is currently focused on a variety of projects, one of which is building the Revibe Life platform.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Revibe Life’s WebsiteConnect with Nathaniel on LinkedIn

Unlock the secrets of strategic entrepreneurship with Ivan Smirnov, a trailblazer in the tech industry whose journey spans from high school ventures to a successful career at Google and the founding of Smirnov Labs. Ivan's story is not just about building systems that reach billions but also about crafting environments that marry enjoyment with learning. Tune in to discover how his user-centered approach, honed at Google, plays a pivotal role in transforming startups into thriving enterprises that prioritize delighting users over mere shareholder value.Ivan sheds light on the necessity of strategic thinking in a rapidly evolving tech landscape. With his extensive knowledge, he articulates the importance of understanding both the technical and ethical facets of technology development. His approach seamlessly integrates the demands of front-end and back-end systems, echoing the intricate balancing act of a chess game. Listen as Ivan shares insights on prioritizing tasks, maintaining focus, and overcoming the perfectionism that often hinders broader business objectives.As technology advances, Ivan offers a fascinating perspective on AI's potential to mimic human behavior, likening the current technological surge to a modern-day gold rush. Explore the opportunities emerging within the AI ecosystem and learn how businesses can thrive by supporting foundational technological infrastructures, from cloud hosting to GPU creation. Whether you're a tech enthusiast or an aspiring entrepreneur, Ivan's discussion invites you to ponder the exciting future of technology and its profound impact on human connection.ABOUT IVANIvan Smirnov is a forward-thinking technology executive with a passion for scaling startups and building next-generation platforms. With a career spanning roles at Google, Elude, and Smirnov Labs, Ivan has architected systems used by billions and coached founders to align technical execution with their business vision. Through his work at Smirnov Labs, he partners with entrepreneurs to transform their startups into thriving, scalable businesses.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Smirnov Labs’ WebsiteConnect with Ivan on LinkedIn

Storytelling expert Kris Jones, founder of Red Door Stories and a mentee of Donald Miller, returns to share her journey from a young visual storyteller to a successful designer and entrepreneur. Kris has collaborated with giants like Nike and Adidas, but her real passion lies in helping self-employed service providers unlock the power of authentic business copywriting. This episode promises to transform your approach to crafting narratives that truly resonate, turning what can feel like an arduous task into an enjoyable and rewarding experience.Kris recounts her early fascination with storytelling and the evolution of her career, highlighting a poignant story about her client Elise, who struggled to find her voice despite her publishing background. This challenge inspired Kris to develop techniques that empower her clients to overcome their writing hurdles. Packed with unique insights and practical tips, this episode encourages you to redefine your business communication and achieve new levels of success. Tune in to be inspired and equipped to elevate your business narrative with ease and creativity.ABOUT KRISMost business owners miss out on sales because their website copy isn’t working. The truth is, being good at what you do is very different than being good at talking about what you do. Kris Jones’s Signature Story-Selling System helps consultants, coaches, and service providers replace all their marketing with a single story so they can attract more clients, amplify revenue and enjoy more time freedom.Kris founded Red Door Stories in 2003 and was mentored by Donald Miller, Author of Building a StoryBrand. She's worked with high-profile companies, including Nike and Adidas, but her favorite clients are self-employed service providers because they struggle the most with copywriting and can experience the greatest benefits once they get their Story right.Kris believes that writing copy for your own business doesn’t have to feel like torture. In fact, once you know how to tell a compelling Signature Story, it can actually be fast, easy, and fun.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Red Door Designs’ WebsiteConnect with Kris on LinkedIn

Unlock the secret to scaling your business with insights from Ilija Filipovic, founder of FlatForce.co, as he outlines the transformative power of Salesforce. Discover how a robust CRM system isn't just a tool but a strategic partner in optimizing workflows and integrating complex systems to propel your business toward its goals. Ilija's journey from tech-savvy teenager to seasoned Salesforce expert offers compelling stories and practical advice on harnessing technology for growth.Learn the blueprint for CRM success as we explore the essentials of implementation and ongoing support, regardless of your business size. Ilija reveals how Salesforce can consolidate client interactions, manage subscriptions, and provide customer portals to streamline operations. Especially in today's tight-budget market environment, FlatForce's flat-fee service model emerges as a game-changer, offering a flexible and cost-effective solution without the need for internal hiring.Step into the future of business with our discussion on AI integration with CRM systems. This isn't just about technology—it's about transformation. Ilija shares how AI can enhance developer productivity and improve client-facing operations, urging entrepreneurs to prioritize system investments to leap ahead of competitors. Tune in to gain invaluable advice from a leader in the field and explore how the right systems can make all the difference.ABOUT ILIJAIlija Filipovic is a seasoned Salesforce expert and the founder of Flatforce.co, where he leads digital transformation initiatives for companies looking to leverage Salesforce technology. With over a decade in the industry, Ilija has successfully executed end-to-end Salesforce implementations, complex system integrations, and custom architecture solutions. His approach centers on making digital transformation accessible with flat monthly packages tailored to each client’s unique needs, allowing businesses to scale effectively and achieve measurable results.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit FlatForce.coConnect with Ilija on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how financial expertise can transform digital marketing strategies? Join us on the Wantrepreneur to Entrepreneur Podcast as Tim Han, Founder and CEO of TriLux Digital, shares his extraordinary shift from finance to becoming a leader in the digital marketing arena. You’ll discover how Tim’s background in finance fuels his marketing tactics, emphasizing measurable results that translate internet efforts into tangible business outcomes. Through his story, you'll gain insights into the powerful synergy between finance and marketing, offering a fresh perspective on achieving business success in today’s digital landscape.We explore the art of crafting effective digital marketing strategies, using the analogy of fitness routines to illustrate the balance between organic and inorganic traffic. Tim sheds light on the necessity of tailoring marketing strategies to align with a business’s foundational elements, ensuring that every marketing campaign is built on a solid base. By leveraging comprehensive data-driven methods, discover how to measure impact in terms of financial outcomes rather than just impressions, utilizing advanced tools like Google Analytics and SEMrush to turn numbers into actionable insights. This thoughtful approach highlights the importance of aligning reported metrics with actual business results.Marketing’s role in business evolution takes center stage as we discuss its impact on growth and transitioning phases. Tim and your host Brian Lofrumento dive into the transformation from traditional marketing techniques to the modern digital arena, underlining the need to adapt to current platforms. They also reflect on AI's emergence as a supportive tool rather than a replacement for human creativity. Maintaining authenticity and passion in entrepreneurship remains crucial, and we encourage listeners to harness AI for efficiency while staying true to their unique vision. Packed with valuable insights, this episode is a must-listen for anyone eager to harness strategic marketing for entrepreneurial success.ABOUT TIMOTHYTimothy Han is the Founder and CEO of TriLux Digital, a full-service digital marketing agency based out of Texas.Tim integrates over 10 years of business and finance experience into his ROI-focused SEO and paid advertisement strategies. He uses his professional financial perspective to ensure that every digital marketing client's top-line growth is at the forefront of every decision, with his methodical nature allowing him to diligently adjust strategies and be effortlessly nimble in the ever-evolving digital landscape.What sets him apart from other agencies is that he is hands-on and an active part of every client's marketing strategy, and holds frequent face-to-face meetings that ensure clients are informed, empowered partners in their digital marketing endeavors. His systematic, but holistic, approach helps remain cost-conscious while keeping every client's budget and goals as utmost priority. Tim takes providing trust, value, and engagement very seriously as he and his team strive to amplify your business's digital potential.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit TriLux Digital’s WebsiteFollow TriLux Digital on LinkedInConnect with Timothy on LinkedIn

Unlock the power of storytelling in your business with Kris Jones, a master storyteller who has reshaped the landscape of brand communication. Kris began her journey in brand design in the early 2000s and has since become a pioneer in storytelling for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Her innovative Story Selling System has transformed how businesses craft impactful website copy, turning narratives into potent sales tools. Through her expertise, Kris has guided numerous businesses to achieve remarkable results, such as increased revenue and enhanced client engagement.Discover the art of crafting a Signature Story, likened to an accordion, that can be adapted across different platforms while maintaining consistency. This approach not only amplifies your brand's memorability but also simplifies your marketing efforts, allowing them to operate seamlessly. Kris delves into the importance of stripping away the noise to focus on the essential elements of your brand story, creating a cohesive narrative that resonates with your audience. Learn how to create your Brand Copy Bible, a comprehensive document that streamlines your marketing strategy by providing ready-to-use content for various platforms.Transform your sales calls into genuine connections through storytelling. Kris shares how clarity in one's narrative can boost sales confidence, as seen in the case of her client Andrea, who drastically improved her closing rate. By guiding clients through a structured storytelling process, you can obtain impactful testimonials and enhance client experiences. Tune in for insights and inspiration that cater to both aspiring and established entrepreneurs.ABOUT KRISMost business owners miss out on sales because their website copy isn’t working. The truth is, being good at what you do is very different than being good at talking about what you do. Kris Jones’s Signature Story-Selling System helps consultants, coaches, and service providers replace all their marketing with a single story so they can attract more clients, amplify revenue and enjoy more time freedom.Kris founded Red Door Stories in 2003 and was mentored by Donald Miller, Author of Building a StoryBrand. She's worked with high-profile companies, including Nike and Adidas, but her favorite clients are self-employed service providers because they struggle the most with copywriting and can experience the greatest benefits once they get their Story right.Kris believes that writing copy for your own business doesn’t have to feel like torture. In fact, once you know how to tell a compelling Signature Story, it can actually be fast, easy, and fun.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Red Door Designs’ WebsiteConnect with Kris on LinkedIn

What if the secret to successful marketing lies in authenticity and genuine connections? Join us as Alisha Chranya, the trailblazing founder and CEO of Society Unlocked, unveils her journey from a marketing student to launching her own agency at just 23. Alicia passionately believes in the transformative power of micro-influencers over traditional advertising, emphasizing the need for authentic voices in brand promotion. Her narrative not only explores the innovative marketing landscape but also highlights her dedication to truthfulness and building lasting consumer relationships.Discover how Society Unlocked is redefining marketing strategies for hospitality brands by leveraging the potency of micro-influencers. Alisha shares candid insights into the uphill battle of persuading traditional business owners to embrace this modern approach, offering a compelling argument for its cost-effectiveness and genuine consumer engagement. The episode delves into the challenges of content authenticity and how smaller influencers can foster real connections that elevate brand awareness. Alisha's journey is a testament to the potential of micro-influencers to revolutionize industries beyond hospitality, extending to sectors like beauty.Alisha also opens up about her personal journey of growth, recounting her move to New York City and how stepping out of her comfort zone led to profound professional success. Her disciplined routine, inspired by the 75 Hard Challenge, highlights the benefits of consistency and structured habits in achieving one's goals. This episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights, inviting listeners to embrace authenticity, cultivate meaningful relationships, and embark on their own path of growth and success.ABOUT ALISHAAlisha Chranya is the Founder and CEO of Society Unlocked, a marketing agency focused on helping hospitality brands connect with audiences through micro-influencer campaigns. With a strong background in marketing, Alisha has built Society Unlocked around the idea of using authentic voices to elevate brand visibility.Starting her marketing career while studying at American University’s Kogod School of Business, Alisha gained experience across various roles that shaped her approach to brand building. After moving to New York City, she launched Society Unlocked at 23, establishing herself as a leader in the industry with a fresh approach to brand influence and customer engagement.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit Society Unlocked’s WebsiteFollow Society Unlocked on InstagramFind Society Unlocked on TikTokConnect with Alisha on LinkedIn

Ever wondered how artificial intelligence could shape the future of security? Join us for an insightful episode with Aman Ibrahim, the innovative co-founder of DeepTrust, as we unravel the pressing challenges and incredible potential AI brings to the world of cybersecurity. Aman, inspired by his Eritrean roots and his family's dedication to community and technology, shares his mission to safeguard human authenticity against modern threats like voice phishing, deep fakes, and social engineering. With a rich background in machine learning and experience in both healthcare and tech startups, Aman's journey is both inspiring and informative.Our conversation ventures deep into the risks of misinformation and the devastating impact of AI-generated scams. As we explore the ease with which voices and likenesses can be manipulated, we highlight the real-world consequences that have already cost Americans billions. Aman's personal stories reveal the urgency of these issues, underscoring how even the most cautious individuals can fall prey to these high-tech scams. The discussion extends to the misuse of deepfake technology in marketing, prompting a reflection on the challenges consumers face in distinguishing real endorsements from fabricated ones.We also tackle the critical issue of cybersecurity in corporate communication, with platforms like Zoom becoming hotbeds for sophisticated cybercriminal activities. Aman illustrates how AI-driven attacks are evolving, emphasizing the need for proactive defense measures. Discover the innovative concept of co-pilot agents, designed to empower employees in navigating risky situations by providing real-time guidance and ensuring sensitive information is handled with care. Don't miss this eye-opening conversation with Aman Ibrahim, as we navigate the intricate landscape of AI security together.ABOUT AMANAman Ibrahim is a co-founder at DeepTrust, where he focuses on leveraging AI to help security teams defend against voice phishing, deepfakes, and social engineering attacks across voice and video communication channels. Prior to DeepTrust, Aman worked as an ML engineer at Cruise, where he scaled model and data distribution systems, and he also built models in healthcare research labs to address challenges in nutrition, palliative care, and disease detection. His work at DeepTrust is driven by the mission to protect human authenticity in an age of rapidly advancing AI technology.LINKS & RESOURCESVisit DeepTrust’s WebsiteHave a Conversation with TerifAI’s Bot!Connect with Aman on LinkedIn