Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, you have me, Ely Delaney, flying solo to tackle a hot topic that everyone’s buzzing about—AI. As an automation guy, you might expect me to be fully onboard the AI-train, but I have mixed feelings. There's a lot to talk about when it comes to the balance between automation and maintaining human connections. I wanted to share my honest thoughts and ideas on AI, and to clarify my stance for those curious or skeptical. Yes, I use AI, but I aim to do it in ways that are ethical and still preserve the essence of human interaction. Here are the key takeaways from today’s episode: Human Connection Matters: Automation should not replace genuine human interaction. People want to connect with other people, not robots.AI for Factual Content: When it comes to reporting pure news or data, AI’s unbiased nature can be an asset. It helps in delivering facts without personal bias.Enhanced Productivity Through AI Tools: Utilizing AI for brainstorming and research can save time and spark creativity without compromising authenticity.Efficient Transcriptions and SOP Creation: AI tools can quickly transcribe and create structured documents from audio or video content, freeing up time for more critical tasks.Knowledge-Based Chatbots: While I’m not a fan of chatbots for customer service, they can be useful for straightforward, data-driven queries if presented honestly as bots. Throughout our chat, I emphasized how AI can act as a powerful tool when used correctly. It’s especially helpful in tasks like transcription, brainstorming, and factual reporting. Yet, I caution against using AI for human-centric roles like personal email communications or sales conversations, where the human touch is irreplaceable. For those of you curious, the tools I mentioned, like Cast Magic, Minvo, and Grammarly, are ways to leverage AI without stripping away your unique voice and authenticity. Links to these tools will be in the show notes, and yes, they’re affiliate links that help keep me in mocha! Minvo: https://elylikes.com/minvo Opus Clip: https://elylikes.com/Opus Grammarly: https://elylikes.com/grammarly If today’s episode sparked some thoughts to share, feel free to reach out. I’m always up for a conversation about finding ethical ways to integrate AI while keeping the human connection alive. Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Today on the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I had the great pleasure of chatting with Don Oehlert, an expert in job search strategies, a managing partner at ecareercoaching.com, and a fractional chief people officer. Whether you’re navigating the challenging job market or looking to enhance your company’s culture, this conversation offers valuable advice and actionable steps. In this episode, we focused on something I love to talk about, personality assessments and their broad applications in both personal and professional settings. Don provided expert insights on how understanding these assessments can greatly improve workplace dynamics and job search strategies, particularly for those aged 45 and older. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: Mainstream Acceptance of Personality Assessments: Tools like DISC, Enneagram, and Myers-Briggs are now widely recognized and utilized for better communication and collaboration within organizations.Enhancing Communication: Understanding diverse personality types can significantly improve empathy and courtesy in interactions, leading to a more positive work environment and better teamwork.Job Search Strategies for Older Adults: Don emphasized the importance of using "SAR stories" (Situation, Action, Result) to create compelling marketing messages for job seekers, especially those aged 45 and older.Personalized Recognition for Retention: Employee retention is improved when recognition and rewards are tailored to individual personality types, making people feel more valued and understood.Understanding Company Culture: Employers should introspect to determine their desired company culture, which in turn helps in managing employees effectively and ensuring a conducive work environment. Be sure to connect with with Don. You can reach out to him via email at don@ecareercoaching.com. Don’s expertise in career coaching and personality assessments can offer profound benefits for both job seekers and small business owners alike. ========= Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! In this episode, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sheryl Powers, an amazing entrepreneur with over 30 years of experience in the DFW radio industry and co-founder of M Powered Advantage. Sheryl and her husband launched a suite of subscription-based services to address the resource gaps they found in corporate America, particularly for entrepreneurs and 1099 contract labor teams. We dove into Sheryl's journey and the inspiration behind her business. Through strategic networking and fervent dedication, Sheryl built a company that provides essential non-insurance-based services designed to simplify life for entrepreneurs. Her passion for building supportive communities and educating others truly shines in every aspect of her work. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: Community and Education are Essential: Sheryl is deeply committed to her role in educating people and building supportive networks, which are cornerstones of her business model.Clear Communication with Clients: Sheryl highlighted the importance of conveying her business services clearly and concisely, ensuring potential clients grasp the value she offers seamlessly.The Power of Networking and Personal Interests: Engaging in hobbies and personal interests can significantly bolster business connections and lead to valuable relationships.Efficiency in Networking Tools: Sheryl shares her practical use of the notes app on her iPad for organizing networking leads and referrals, demonstrating the importance of utilizing simple tools to streamline the process.Human Connection Over Transactions: Both Sheryl and I stressed the necessity of fostering genuine connections in business, proving that relationships driven by authentic interactions often lead to mutual success and growth. For anyone interested in connecting with Sheryl Powers, you can reach her through her: https://mpoweredadvantage.com/ Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast!  Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with my friend Stephanie Castro, the owner of Stay Home Pet Sitting. This episode is a must-listen for pet lovers and aspiring entrepreneurs alike.  Stephanie shared her heartfelt journey from the corporate world of oil and gas to creating a haven for pets within the comfort of their own homes. Her dedication to providing stress-free pet care inspired a wonderful conversation about caring for our furry friends and building a business with passion. Stephanie's story began with a traumatic experience her dog had at a traditional boarding facility, which led her to realize the immense benefits of pets staying in their own environment. Today, Stay Home Pet Sitting serves the central part of Houston and is expanding to other areas, offering specialized care tailored to each pet's needs. For all you pet lovers out there, I made sure to ask her all the important questions about the intricacies of hiring a trustworthy pet sitter, addressing the importance of insurance and bonding, as well as leveraging reviews and personal recommendations.  Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: - **The Benefits of At-Home Pet Sitting:** Traditional boarding can be stressful for pets. Keeping them in their own environment reduces anxiety and promotes well-being. - **Hiring the Right Pet Sitter:** Ensure they are insured, bonded, and have positive reviews. Open communication and frequent updates from the sitter are crucial. - **Entrepreneurial Growth:** Stephanie's transition from a sole proprietorship to managing a team of five highlights the importance of passionate, client-focused employees. - **Value of Entrepreneur Groups:** Relationships and varied perspectives from mastermind groups can significantly impact personal and professional growth. - **Planning Ahead for Holidays:** Start looking for pet care well in advance to avoid last-minute stress during busy holiday seasons. Stephanie also shared her experience with entrepreneurial mastermind groups and the transformative impact of external perspectives on her business and personal life. We finished our discussion with practical advice on operational efficiency and a couple of great “out-of-the-box” ideas that she implemented in her business, which have really made her stand out and created an excellent client experience. For those interested in connecting with Stephanie or needing pet-sitting services in the Houston area, reach out via her website at https://www.stayhomepetsitting.com You can also connect with her on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/stayhomepetsitting ======== Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com.

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with client and friend Kelly Dickerson, an independent health and life insurance broker who has a passion for helping solopreneurs and small businesses secure the best insurance options without breaking the bank. If you're navigating the world of health insurance as a solopreneur, you'll definitely want to tune in to this episode. Kelly shared her journey from a physical therapist to a health insurance broker, motivated by a desire for more control over her schedule and a commitment to helping others. We dove into the specifics of how supplemental insurance policies can provide a financial safety net in times of critical illness or accidents. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: Supplemental Insurance Provides a Financial Bridge: Kelly explains how supplemental policies can cover out-of-pocket expenses like deductibles, ensuring that financial strain doesn't add to the burden of dealing with a major health issue.Options for Solopreneurs: Traditional group benefits might not be available for solopreneurs, but Kelly highlights various options, including individual insurance and bundled supplemental policies that can provide comprehensive coverage.Navigating Health Insurance Landscape: Kelly assists clients in navigating through various plans and options, ensuring they find the best coverage suitable for their needs and budget without employer contribution.Group Plans for Individuals: Ely and Kelly discuss the availability of group plans designed to offer similar benefits to those of large companies now accessible to solo entrepreneurs, helping to keep rates down while providing extensive coverage.Digital Nomads and Full-Time RVers: We also tackled the complexities faced by digital nomads and full-time RVers, emphasizing the importance of out-of-state and emergency coverage in their health insurance plans. Kelly's approach is all about tailoring insurance solutions to individual needs and budgets. Whether you're a solopreneur, a small business owner, or someone navigating this complex insurance landscape, Kelly offers invaluable guidance to ensure you're adequately covered. For anyone interested in connecting with Kelly Dickerson, you can schedule a free consultation through her website https://kdinsurancesolutions.com. === Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com.

Welcome to #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the great pleasure of talking with Michael Haynes, a B2B go-to-market specialist and the mastermind behind Listen, Innovate, Grow.  Michael helps small and medium professional service firms—like those in accounting, technology, and law—navigate to a new level of client acquisition, retention, and sustainable growth. Our conversation kicked off with Michael explaining what a “go-to-market strategy” truly means.  Simply put, it's a comprehensive roadmap for how a firm and its solutions make their way to the marketplace.  Michael shared his journey, transitioning from focusing on customer research in the telecommunications industry to catering to the nuanced needs of professional service firms. He shared his A.I.R. Driven Framework that helps professional service buyers prioritize and build expertise and trust with tier prospects and client. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: **Listening is Paramount:** Michael emphasized the importance of three levels of listening—understanding business leaders, the market, and client needs. This forms the bedrock for an effective go-to-market strategy.**Content Distribution is Crucial:** Strategic content creation and its placement where clients frequent—through associations, industry publications, and even podcasts—are essential to building relationships and securing clients.**Micro Events are Game Changers:** Hosting roundtables, Q&A sessions, and strategy brainstorms, especially online, can effectively engage decision-makers without demanding much of their time.**Strategic Collaborations Open Doors:** Identifying and collaborating with the right people or organizations can offer expansion opportunities without heavy resource investment.**Trust and Expertise Drive Client Decisions:** Being recognized as a valuable advisor in your industry, often achieved through strategic collaborations and immersive market engagement, can significantly influence professional services buying behavior. For anyone looking to connect with Michael Haynes, you can find him on LinkedIn where he is always sharing valuable content. Also, don’t forget to check out his website where you can access his playbook—a short PDF that outlines a go-to-market framework and actionable steps to put your plans into motion at https://listeninnovategrow.com/sme-playbook/ Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today’s a bit different since it's just you and me—no guests. I wanted to share something that’s been a game-changer for me: building strong, meaningful relationships that not only benefit my business but also enrich my life. I’ve been an entrepreneur since the mid-90s, and believe it or not, I’m an introvert. Crafting robust relationships while managing my energy has been key. If you're an introvert too, don’t think you can't do this—you absolutely can! Today, I focused on actionable strategies to help you build and maintain beneficial relationships. From the types of people you need to know, to creating a follow-up system that ensures you stay connected, I cover it all. Here are the key takeaways from today's episode: - **Identify Your Tribe:** Determine the kinds of people you want in your circle. Are they referral partners, potential clients, or mastermind buddies? Identifying this is crucial for targeted networking. - **Where to Find Them:** Whether it's at business events, game stores, or even Renaissance fairs, know where your ideal connections hang out. Being in the right place increases your chances of meeting the right people. - **Add Value First:** Before you ask for anything, offer value. Whether it’s sharing a helpful strategy, making a useful introduction, or simply being a supportive friend, adding value fosters genuine connections. - **Follow-Up System:** Use a CRM to set up reminders for periodic check-ins. Email, text, comment on their social media posts—mix it up to stay on their radar without being repetitive. (YOU will forget otherwise! Trust me on this one!) - **Consistency Over Perfection:** Building relationships is a long game. Consistently nurture these connections over months with thoughtful interactions—quality over quantity. I hope you find these strategies as helpful as I have. Building meaningful relationships is the cornerstone of any successful venture and I’m excited for you to implement these tips. If we’re not connected yet, let’s fix that! Here are my main links: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/elydelaney LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elydelaney Want to learn more about how my team and I can help you convert casual connections into clients? Check out the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the privilege of having an great conversation with Justin Peters. Justin is a podcast manager, host, and co-founder of Simple Pod Studios. He’s a Rockstar with a ton of experience in crafting meaningful podcast content and has a thoughtful approach to podcasting as a medium for both personal and professional growth. Justin and I covered a lot of facets of podcasting, from content creation to audience engagement, and what it takes to run a successful show. We also discussed the broader implications of podcasting for business and personal branding. His journey, which began during a sabbatical in December 2019, has transformed into a career, thanks in part to his brother's encouragement and partnership in Simple Pod Studios. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: - **Prioritize Fun and Quality Content:** Justin emphasizes that podcasting should be enjoyable while focusing on delivering excellent content tailored to the ideal listener. - **Non-Monetary ROI:** Beyond financial gain, Justin values podcasting for personal branding, relationship building, and enhancing communication skills. - **Start Simple:** Justin advises to begin with audio-only podcasting to keep initial costs low and recommends using a good quality, yet affordable, microphone like the Samsung Q2U USB bundle. - **Planning and Storyboarding:** The structure of an episode is crucial. Spend time on preproduction to ensure a smooth recording process and effective storytelling. - **Experimentation and Sustainability:** When deciding between solo episodes and guest interviews, consider your goals and sustainability. Experiment to find what works best for you. For those who want to get in touch with Justin, you can find him on: Website: [Simple Pod Studios](https://www.simplepodstudios.com) LinkedIn: [Justin Peters](https://www.linkedin.com/in/justinleepeters/) Podcast: [The Struggle is Real](https://youtu.be/mLO79osJLyA?si=m4PBzfky0qNwJ_Dk) === Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, we had the opportunity to bring in my friend Heather Harden. She specializes in helping coaches streamline business operations and sustainable growth. If you’re looking to scale and maximize efficiency in your business, this conversation is packed with actionable strategies that can transform your business. Heather shared her journey from computer programming to becoming an expert in team management, and how leveraging her experience can fundamentally reshape the way you approach decision-making and project planning. We discussed the importance of communication and collaboration when working with an operations manager or a team, and how integrating tools like loom.com can streamline your processes effectively. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: - **Effective Communication and Collaboration:** Heather emphasized that clear communication is fundamental when working with an operations manager or team. Sharing ideas and setting clear expectations can significantly improve decision-making and project execution. - **Documenting Processes:** Before onboarding someone, it's crucial to have all your ideas and processes documented in a centralized place, such as Google Drive. This foundation ensures that new team members can quickly get up to speed with your operations. - **Leveraging Technology for Efficiency:** Tools like loom.com can help in recording and sharing processes, making it easier to create standard operating procedures and maintain consistency across your business operations. - **Sales Pipeline and CRM Utilization:** We highlighted the importance of mapping out your sales processes and using CRM systems to manage leads, conversions, and follow-ups. This keeps your sales strategy organized and effective. - **Reverse Engineering for Business Growth:** Both Heather and I stressed the value of reverse engineering your goals and paying attention to details. Planning each step meticulously can lead to more successful business outcomes. For anyone interested in connecting with Heather, you can find her at her website: nachatconsulting.com Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com

Welcome back, listeners, to another episode of #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with Kinga Vajda, a strategic innovator and agile adviser whose vast experience in change management, executive coaching, and program management shares her knowledge around leadership and how to create amazingly coherent and effective teams.  During our conversation, we dove deep into using Agile team principles for small businesses. Kinga shared valuable perspectives and practical applications of Agile techniques, particularly for small business owners. Here are some key takeaways from our discussion: - **Effective Communication and Task Management:** Kinga emphasized the importance of using tools like Trello and other project management systems to improve communication and manage tasks efficiently. Such tools can be a game-changer for small business owners, especially couples running a business together. - **Documenting Processes and Managing Tasks:** We discussed the necessity of documenting your processes and how crucial task management becomes as your team grows. Clear documentation and task management help in setting clear expectations and understanding assumptions right from the start of a project. - **Setting Clear Expectations and Agreements:** Kinga brilliantly explained the significance of establishing agreements, operating norms, and decision-making processes. Starting with the end goal in mind and defining what "done" looks like ensures everyone on the team is aligned. - **Time Boxing and Capacity Planning:** Breaking down complex problems into manageable tasks within a specific timeframe, known as time boxing, helps in realistic planning. Kinga recommended using a cyclical timeframe like a week to better plan capacities and commitments. - **Embracing Change and Open Communication:** Encouraging open communication fosters a supportive community within organizations. Weekly check-ins and daily stand-up meetings promote efficient teamwork and help address challenges immediately. Kinga also shared her views on using Agile principles to promote rapid improvements and exponential progress. Our conversation covered her transition from the waterfall method to fully embracing Agile methodologies, illuminating the power of adaptability, teamwork, and quick problem-solving. Want to see how Kinga can help you and your team? Visit her website here: https://executeyourintentions.com/ Be sure to connect with Kinga on LinkedIn and let her know you her here on the #MeetCoolPEople Podcast! https://www.linkedin.com/in/kingavajda/ Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/