In this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I had the pleasure of inviting an amazing guest after my own heart, Greg Wasserman, the head of growth partnerships and community at Cast Magic. This conversation was a goldmine for anyone passionate about podcasting, relationship building, and content creation. Greg brought with him over 15 years of experience in advertising, sales, and partnerships and shared an abundance of knowledge on the inner workings of podcast advertising and brand building. One of the core themes we dug into was Greg's ethos - "life is about time and relationships." He emphasized the power of curiosity and engaging in meaningful conversations, which can be a catalyst for not only personal but also professional growth. We talked a bit about the world of repurposing content. It's not just about putting your content out there on as many platforms as possible but also about making it unique to you as an individual. Greg shared insights into expanding distribution beyond the major platforms, fostering audience growth, and looking at monetization through a more creative lens. Moreover, Greg and I exchanged stories about the serendipities of podcasting, where you can unintentionally find clients and build lasting relationships. It’s about capturing conversations and ideas through recording since, as podcasters and content creators, we must realize the potential wealth in our spoken words. Below are some key takeaways from our conversation: - Build relationships first; metrics like download numbers are secondary. - Content repurposing across various mediums can amplify your message. - Explore creative monetization and distribution strategies beyond the traditional frameworks. - Authenticity is crucial; use AI and tech to organize thoughts but maintain your personal voice. - When inviting guests, provide them with materials to help promote the episode for mutual benefit. Finally, if you'd like to connect with Greg you can find him on LinkedIn at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregwasserman/ (Just remember to send a personalized message when you do!) Plus, check out the platform Cast Magic to see the work they’re doing to help content creators and podcasters amplify their voices here: https://elylikes.com/castmagic

In today's session, I had an awesome chat about the ins and outs of putting on amazing virtual events with my rockstar friend Bernie DeSantis III, the president and CEO of Insignia Training Partners. Bernie brought his A-game, sharing his experience on enhancing virtual training and events, something many of us are always striving to do better with. We all know virtual events can be challenging, and Bernie pinpointed the common blunders many make, from lackluster energy levels to poor audio and video quality. If you want to keep your audience hooked, you’ve got to keep engaging with your camera as if you're talking face-to-face with your audience. We also went over a few small but mighty details that can make or break a virtual event. It's all about audience interaction. Bernie also highlighted the wonders of the interactive tools that you can use to step up the engagement during your presenations.. Here are just a few od the important takeaways from this episode: - Keep your energy high and make sure to engage with the camera during virtual events. - Know your platform's tools and features to maximize audience interaction. - Invest in good audio equipment and test your setup before the event. - Don't underestimate the power of practice and preparation – run those dress rehearsals! - Small details can have a huge impact on the quality and success of your virtual events. Bernie is a wealth of knowledge and a great person to know in the universe of virtual event planning and execution. Want to get connected with Bernie? Here is his LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/badiii/

Welcome back to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, and today's guest is the incredible Michael Hession, a wealth-building strategist who's mastered the art of infinite banking. In our conversation, Michael delves deep into the mechanics of using life insurance as a tool for creating and sustaining wealth. He lays out a clear path for individuals and business owners alike, showing them how to leverage the same financial strategies that icons like Walt Disney have used to fund their dreams and maintain control over their hard-earned money. Here are some pivotal points we covered: The vast potential of infinite banking and its accessibility to not just the corporate elite, but also to individuals who want to build financial resilience.How whole life insurance policies serve as more than just a death benefit – they're dynamic, growing assets with tax advantages and loan opportunities.Michael’s personal journey discovering these strategies and how they can empower us to become our own bankers, giving us greater financial freedom and flexibility.The practicality of infinite banking, breaking down the notion that these strategies are complex and showing how they can be used for everyday financial requirements. Take-A-Ways from the episode: Infinite banking isn't just for the ultra-rich; it’s a strategy accessible to all.Life insurance can be a powerful vehicle for intergenerational wealth transfers.The importance of redirecting our cash flow to retain more of our income.The significance of educating beneficiaries to continue leveraging these financial tools. After listening to Michael Hession discuss the concept of infinite banking, how do you see it fitting into your current financial planning? Is this something new to you, or have you already been utilizing this method? For those looking to delve deeper into infinite banking or reach out to Michael for guidance on creating lasting wealth, you can visit https://ThePerfectAsset.net. 

In our latest #MeetCoolPeople session, we were graced by the exceptional Jen Grosso. As a seasoned well-being expert and performance consultant, Jen brought 25 years of rich experience into our conversation. Her wisdom wasn't just theoretical; her strategies and empathetic approach have real-world effects, including resurrecting businesses on the brink. Jen shared how intertwined our professional hurdles are with our personal well-being. We learned that when a business is faced with challenges, such as cash flow interruptions caused by unpaid contracts, it's not enough to merely chart out plans and timelines. We also have to safeguard the mindset and morale of the very individuals steering these business ships, ensuring they remain afloat long enough to conquer the storms. Here are some powerful takeaways from my talk with Jen Grosso: - Cash flow issues can be debilitating for a business, but addressing the well-being of the team is just as critical as solving financial woes. - Long-term success demands that we stay vigilant for signs of trouble in our business and personal lives. - Consistency in maintaining positive habits can greatly impact our performance and resilience, particularly in turbulent times. - Small, simple daily practices such as staying hydrated and taking breaks can significantly boost decision-making and overall well-being. - Personalizing self-care routines according to individual needs is key—it's not a one-size-fits-all when it comes to building resilience. Connect with Jen Grosso at http://boldfireinstitute.com/

Welcome back to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast. I'm your host, Ely Delaney, and today I had the pleasure of sitting down with Bravis Brown, a multifaceted leader with an incredible track record, who now focuses on redefining the approach to recruitment. Our conversation dove deep into the symbiotic relationship between generalists and specialists within a team & why you need both. Bravis shared his perspective on why it's crucial to have team members who possess the foresight for scaling the organization, as well as individuals who are deeply knowledgeable about specific customers and products. This blend is essential for both operational success and strategic growth. We also touched on the often overlooked aspect of adapting job roles to the evolution of a business. This is a game-changer, as Bravis pointed out, for ensuring the vision and job duties remain aligned as a company expands. Bravis's focus in recruitment is to place candidates based on not only their present capabilities but also their future potential and adaptability—illustrated by some compelling hiring stories he shared. Here are your key takeaways from today's chat: The interplay of generalists and specialists is fundamental in a team's composition for a well-rounded view of your business's future.Revisit and revise job descriptions regularly to ensure they align with your company’s growth and vision.Leadership's intentions vs. daily realities can shift under the pressures of the business environment.Hiring for future potential facilitates business adaptability and growth.Strategic networking and utilizing resources like mind-mapping can improve hiring efficiency and help realize business visions. Interested in connecting with Bravis Brown? Be sure to find him at https://ConnectWithBravis.com

On the latest episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, I was joined by Jessica Gruber, the creative strategist and founder of Buzzworks Creations, an international website design agency. Jessica shared her journey of transitioning from print and creative art direction to the digital side of things, and how she found her passion for helping business owners translate their strategies into user-friendly website experiences. She also discussed her approach to building a strong team and the importance of finding the right people to work with. **Key Takeaways:** - The importance of a unique value proposition (UVP): Jessica emphasized the significance of having a clear and compelling UVP prominently featured on a website to quickly convey what the business does, who they serve, and how they solve problems. - Enhancing the call-to-action (CTA): Jessica highlighted the need for an attention-grabbing CTA button, such as "Contact Us" or "Schedule an Appointment," placed distinctly on the website to encourage user engagement. - Building a strong team: Jessica shared her experience of starting a business as a solo entrepreneur and gradually building a team, emphasizing the value of delegating tasks to focus on core strengths and grow the business effectively. Jessica's discussion shed light on the fundamental aspects of website design and strategic business growth, providing valuable insights for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to enhance their digital presence. Connect with Jessica Gruber: https://buzzwks.com

In this episode of #MeetCoolPeople, we have the pleasure of featuring Misty Gilbert, a transformational coach, blogger, writer, and sought-after speaker. Misty joined us to share her wisdom about resilience, how to identify and overcome what’s holding you back from true transformation in your life, and even what it takes to gear up for a TEDx talk.  During our conversation, Misty emphasized the significance of recognizing one's own weaknesses and working diligently to improve. Her approach is one that resonates with many, as it involves embracing authenticity and aligning with core values to overcome life's hurdles. Here are some vital takeaways from our time with Misty Gilbert: - **Preparation is Key**: Misty underscored the importance of over-preparing when it comes to delivering a talk. From her TEDx experience, she learned that knowing your material inside out is essential. - **Recording as a Tool**: Using video to watch yourself deliver presentations is invaluable. It allows you to catch nuances in your body language, tone, and pacing. - **The Power of Vulnerability**: By sharing her personal story, Misty touched on how vulnerability connects you with your audience and reinforces the authenticity of your message. - **Understanding Your Audience**: It's crucial to know who you're speaking to. This knowledge shapes the delivery and preparation of your content, ensuring it resonates well. - **Navigating Emotional Pain**: Through her coaching, Misty assists clients in traversing the complexities of emotional pain to find alignment and clarity in their lives. Misty's journey from the setbacks of leaving a cult in 2013 to her defining TEDx talk on authenticity should be an inspiration to us all.  Want to stay connected with Misty? Be sure to check out her website at www.mistywgilbert.com

On today’s #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, we’re thrilled to have the incredible Dan Bennett, the founder of Video For Entrepreneurs. Dan shared his journey from touring with a rock band to teaching professionals how to shine on camera. With his experience working with big names like Harley Davidson and Nerf, Dan brought a treasure trove of knowledge to our virtual studio. We dove deep into the essentials of looking and sounding professional during video presentations and remote meetings. As we all navigate the shift to virtual platforms, Dan's practical tips for improving virtual presentations are more valuable than ever. From finding the perfect frame to using a good microphone, Dan underscored the necessity of making a positive impression, even through a screen. We both shared personal stories as we reflected on our own experiences with video creation. I’ve certainly come a long way myself in getting comfortable with being on camera, discovering that little things like standing instead of sitting can add that extra dynamism to your online presence. Meanwhile, Dan spoke candidly about his transition from filming weddings to empowering individuals to film themselves like pros. But Dan didn’t stop at just looking good on camera. He stressed the psychological impact that a polished appearance and high sound quality can have on the viewer's perception. According to Dan, the mindset accounts for a whopping 85% of creating great video content. It's all about building that trust with your audience or clients. During our chat, we also explored Dan's unique solar system methodology for content creation, which prioritizes elements like storytelling, strategy, and camera presence. He generously shared a success story where this very approach turned a TikTok viewer into a prospective client almost overnight. Here are your key takeaways from today’s episode: - Establishing a professional appearance and audio quality in video calls and presentations significantly influences client trust and perception. - Practicing and improving presentation skills are essential – standing up can bring more energy to your delivery. - Psychological impact and mindset are huge facets of creating engaging video content. - Systemizing your video production process can lead to efficient and effective content creation. - Dan's solar system methodology for content creation emphasizes the significance of having a clear central theme supported by specific topics. To connect with Dan, visit https://DanHasLinks.com.

In this episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast, we were joined by Lori Lyons, an expert in turning websites into powerful business tools. Our conversation dove into the intricacies of building and maintaining effective websites, the importance of client-centric communication, and strategies to enhance email deliverability. Key Highlights: Building Trust and Loyalty: Lori Lyons shared insights on the legitimacy of solicitations her clients receive and emphasized the importance of building trust and loyalty through email communication. Email Deliverability: We discussed the current issues with email deliverability and the significance of providing value and staying in front of people to enhance communication effectiveness. Website Transformation: Lori shared her journey of transitioning from a packaging business to the digital marketing realm. She talked about the need for both visual appeal and functionality in website design and emphasized the shift from "me-centric" to "client-centric" language on websites. Testimonials and Case Studies: We delved into the significance of testimonials and case studies for websites, with Lori providing actionable advice on gathering client feedback and creating compelling case studies to showcase problem-solving and client satisfaction. Engagement and Opt-Ins: Lori offered valuable strategies for capturing user information from social media and using lead magnets to engage and secure customer interest on websites. Take-Aways: Building trust and loyalty through email communication is crucial for client relationships. Updating website content, adding testimonials, and creating case studies can significantly enhance a website's effectiveness. Capturing user information from social media and engaging with potential clients through lead magnets is essential for business growth. Connecting with the Guest: To connect with Lori Lyons visit her website: https://lorilyons.me/

In this episode of #MeetCoolPeople, Ely Delaney sits down with RJ Redden, a seasoned expert in leveraging technology to enhance engagement and outreach strategies for coaches and entrepreneurs. The lively discussion revolves around the ethical and authentic use of AI tools and bots in business, sharing personal experiences, and offering valuable insights for listeners. Key Highlights: - RJ Redden advocates for using bots to facilitate deeper conversations, emphasizing the importance of leveraging technology to enhance, rather than replace, human interaction. - Ely Delaney and RJ Redden share a mutual passion for integrating AI and bots with personality into their businesses, underscoring the importance of transparency in acknowledging their use. - The potential misuse of AI in spreading negativity and manipulating emotions during the upcoming election season is a warning emphasized by RJ Redden, urging responsible AI usage and ethical considerations. - RJ Redden recommends GPT as a user-friendly tool for beginners to begin authentic and ethical AI integration, highlighting its potential to foster creativity and success in business. - Both Ely & RJ stress the significance of personalized experiences for users, emphasizing the need for a balanced approach to AI that involves human touch and empathy to avoid burnout and disconnection. Key Takeaways: - Embrace AI and bots to foster genuine connections and deeper conversations, not just for automation. - Transparently integrate AI and bots with personality into your business for an authentic user experience. - Ethically and responsibly use AI tools and bots, considering their impact on emotions and societal well-being. - Utilize user-friendly AI tools like GPT for brainstorming and creativity, while prioritizing user-specific customizations in AI-based interactions. - Maintain a balance between AI automation and human involvement, ensuring a personalized and empathetic user experience. Connect with RJ Redden: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rjredden/