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/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I'm thrilled to share a fantastic conversation with my friend, Andrew Biernat. Andrew is a podcast host and project manager at StoryBuilders, where he helps individuals create impactful content like books, courses, and keynote speeches. Our conversation was packed with valuable advice for aspiring authors, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to build their personal brand. Andrew talked about his journey from sales to personal training and eventually finding his niche in publishing. We discussed the powerful role of having a book in creating business opportunities and how intellectual property like courses, workshops, and speaking engagements can significantly boost your career. Here are the key takeaways from our conversation: - **Books as Business Catalysts:** Andrew strongly believes that having a book can open doors in any industry. It can serve as more than just a sale item but as a lead magnet or credibility builder. - **Creating Scalable Products:** Beyond books, intellectual assets such as courses and workshops can extend your expertise and generate additional revenue streams. - **Audience Building is Crucial:** Whether it’s through email marketing, social media, or podcasting, consistently serving your audience is key to long-term growth and success. - **Understanding Purpose:** It’s essential to understand why you’re writing a book and its intended function. It could be for sales at live events, as a lead magnet, or enhancing your credibility. - **Leverage Your Intellectual Property:** Develop a framework or unique methodology that can be used in consulting, workshops, and other content formats, maximizing the utility of your original ideas. Andrew also shared some inspiring success stories, including that of Scott Grace, an insurance agent turned agency owner, who mastered the art of community involvement to drive business success. Be sure to connect with Andrew: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewjbiernat/ StoryBuilders Website: https://storybuilders.com/story 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/

On this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I had a powerful conversation with Paul Childers, a business owner who specializes in helping other businesses secure smart loans without risking personal assets.  Paul took his extensive knowledge from his background in the automotive industry and commercial leases to really see what’s possible for businesses to leverage better business practices in their financial practices by leveraging business credit. No more funding your business via your personal credit cards! Here are a few of our take-a-ways: - **Separation of Personal and Business Finances:** Paul emphasizes the importance of structuring your business as an LLC or corporation and keeping your finances separate. This not only protects your personal assets but also helps in building a stronger credit profile for your business. - **Building Business Credit Despite Personal Credit Hurdles:** Paul reassures that even with poor personal credit or past financial difficulties like bankruptcy or a felony, it's still possible to build strong business credit independently. - **DUNS Number Importance:** We dive into the value of obtaining a DUNS number from Duns and Bradstreet. This free service is a crucial step towards establishing your business as credible in the eyes of business bureaus, enabling more funding opportunities. - **EIN for Business Credit:** Understanding the role of an Employer Identification Number (EIN) is key. While business credit is not a one-size-fits-all solution, it can be a game-changer depending on your business goals. - **Choosing the Right Business Credit Card:** Not all business credit cards report to personal credit bureaus. It's essential to ask the right questions before choosing a card to ensure it serves your business needs without impacting your personal credit score.  Paul and I also explored how solopreneurs can effectively use business credit to finance equipment, property, and separate their personal and business expenses. Through practical advice and years of experience, Paul shared invaluable ways to transition from using personal credit to fully leveraging business credit. If you want to stop treating your business like a hobby and get it in order, listen in. This show will give you many great tips on how to step up your business and leverage credit like a pro! Be sure to connect with Paul and to see if he can help you create a line of business credit that keeps your personal assets in check, visit his website at: https://blueskybizsolutions.com/

In this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I'm so thrilled to share this conversation with Camille Diaz, a coach, financial professional, connector, podcaster, author, and speaker who is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs find happiness, harmony, and financial security. Camille and I met recently via our Success Champions Network and hit it off like ago old friends right out of the game. During our chat, we talked about those struggles that every entrepreneur faces when it comes to overwhelm and dealing with burnout, Our goal is to offer practical strategies to streamline your efforts and drive real growth in your business. I think we hit the mark really well and Camille shared a tond of great stuff that she’s using with her own clients to help them revive away from being a “zombiepreneur”, as she calls it. Here are a couple of highlights from our conversation: - **"Just in Time" Training**: Camille and I discuss the importance of focusing on learning and training that is directly applicable to your current stage of business. This approach prevents overwhelm from signing up for multiple courses and programs, allowing you to concentrate on what truly matters. - **Calendar Management for Productivity**: I share my personal experience with using a calendar to drive productivity and reference Napoleon Hill's concept of "drifting" from "Outwitting the Devil." Camille emphasizes that filling your calendar with priority tasks grants freedom and flexibility, reducing mental overload. - **Avoiding Burnout**: Both Camille and I stress the importance of taking time off to rejuvenate and prevent burnout. Camille suggests carving out a full day free from work and distractions, which can significantly enhance productivity and creativity. - **The Power of Accountability**: Camille highlights the benefit of finding an accountability partner or group to stay on track with your goals. Different methods work for different personalities, so it's essential to customize your approach. This episode is packed with actionable advice on how to optimize your time, enhance productivity, and maintain a balance between work and personal life. Camille’s insights will resonate with anyone looking to avoid the pitfalls of burnout and the overwhelm of too many business options. Connect with Camille: To connect with Camille and explore more of her work, visit her podcast "The Real Deal with Camille." Additionally, she offers valuable tips for entrepreneurs and a free master class available on her website at https://camillediaz.com/masterclass 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/

In this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I had the pleasure of chatting with Sara Schroeder, a dynamic business lifestyle coach who brings positivity and sunshine to everyone she meets. Our conversation was packed with practical tips and strategies for managing our day-to-day lives, maintaining focus, and building meaningful relationships. Sara and I went deep into the critical aspects of time management and maintaining focus. We shared experiences and strategies that help us navigate our busy lives and stay productive without feeling overwhelmed. Sara's approach to identify what excites her and scheduling personal time at the start of the day is a game-changer for setting the right mindset. We also explored the importance of single-tasking and prioritizing challenges to avoid burnout. **Key Takeaways:** Start Your Day with Excitement Sara advises us to kick off the morning by pinpointing what gets us excited to get out of bed. Prioritize scheduling personal time first in your calendar to create a positive tone for the rest of the day. Single-tasking for Success: Sara emphasizes focusing on one task at a time and simplifying our workload. This strategy not only boosts productivity but also helps reduce feelings of overwhelm. Not Everything is an Emergency: We discussed the importance of not responding to every text and email immediately. Sara highlights that unless it's dire, not everything requires instant attention, which can help manage stress and expectations. Mindful Social Media Use: Both Sara and I encourage setting specific times for social media engagement to avoid distractions and the so-called "rabbit holes." This intentional approach keeps us focused on our priorities. Blocking Similar Tasks: I shared my strategy of grouping similar tasks together for efficiency. Whether it's writing or other focused work, using time blocks helps maintain the same mindset and increases productivity. Sara also opens up about her journey from teaching to coaching and working with diverse clients, ranging from lawyers to business owners. She provides valuable support for accountability, self-trust, and purposeful action, all while emphasizing the power of morning mindsets and discipline. Remember to connect with Sara Schroeder via LinkedIn. Don't miss out on her weekly "Winning Friday" live sessions, where she boosts morale and confidence. https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraschroedercoaching/ Ready to discover how you turn more of your casual connections into clients? Sign up for the free training at https://followuprockstar.com/