Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast

In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share insights and stories, kicking off with holiday greetings and their sponsor, LegalZoom, which simplifies business setup. They discuss the value of LegalZoom for cost-effective business needs and transition to a casual “grab bag” discussion. Dave and Shannon explore their recent experiences with car buying, including strategies to save money, using networks for discounts, and leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to compare vehicle options. They highlight how networks and AI can assist in decision-making and negotiations. They also touch on using credit management strategies, such as freezing and unfreezing credit to enhance security for business owners. Shannon shares a story about receiving supplier discounts through social media connections, emphasizing the power of networking. Dave reflects on lessons learned about dealer pricing and the benefits of financing for discounts during the pandemic. They also discuss the value of understanding dealership incentives like holdbacks and bonuses. They highlight the peculiar productivity of the holiday period between Christmas and New Year’s, noting how fewer external demands allow for personal projects, reflection, and productivity. The episode closes with reflections on the year, appreciation for listeners, and holiday wishes, promising an exciting 2025 for Business Brain. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #610 for Wednesday, December 25th, 2024 December 25th: National Pumpkin Pie Day 00:01:45 This is a good week to buy a new car! 00:05:21 Using the power of your network to help with big purchase decisions 00:08:15 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product. 00:10:25 Use ChatGPT to tell you about how car dealerships work Keep your credit frozen Freeze Experian Freeze TransUnion Freeze Equifax 00:18:53 Find time to be productive! 00:20:46 Business Brain 610 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post EOY Expenses and Deals – Business Brain 610 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss a range of topics, emphasizing the importance of creativity, adaptability, and breaking conventional rules in business and life. They highlight tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly, showcasing how AI can enhance productivity, creativity, and problem-solving. The conversation touches on using AI for brainstorming, tech support, and exploring innovative ways to simplify tasks. They also dive into the concept of challenging traditional rules, sharing anecdotes about questioning societal and business “guardrails” that often hinder creativity or progress. Shannon reflects on his upbringing, where his parents instilled the idea that “reality is flexible,” encouraging confidence and rule-breaking as a path to success. Both agree that many rules are either arbitrary or created to maintain control, encouraging listeners to find ways to navigate or challenge these barriers. The hosts also discuss leveraging tax laws and compliance rules creatively, underscoring the importance of staying informed and consulting experts to make the most of existing systems. They highlight the value of experimentation and not letting fear of failure or rigid mindsets prevent action. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to share feedback on what they’ve learned throughout the year and what they’d like to explore in the future, reinforcing the show’s mission of helping others live “charmed lives.” 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #609 for Casual Friday, December 20th, 2024 December 20th: Ugly Christmas Sweater Day 00:01:16 DLH-ChatGPT accepts (and successfully-parses) screenshots, you know. 00:05:07 Grammarly acquires Coda 00:07:19 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain 00:08:45 Breaking the rules Avoid the guardrails 00:12:30 “Reality is flexible” – Shannon’s mom 00:17:53 Business Brain 609 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Break the Rules – Business Brain 609 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Dave and Shannon discuss the relevance of business cards in today’s world, emphasizing creative and practical ways to make them valuable. Shannon suggests using unique designs and multi-purpose formats, such as including discount coupons or magnetic versions for placement in strategic locations like break rooms. Dave highlights the convenience of having essential details on cards for conferences and trade shows, underscoring their usefulness in building connections. The hosts pivot to the importance of taking immediate action rather than delaying plans, especially as the year winds down. They share personal anecdotes and strategies for staying productive, such as working at night, utilizing downtime like TV-watching for brainstorming, and consistently achieving small goals daily. Shannon encourages writing one page daily and sharing it to build accountability and momentum. Both emphasize that consistent, incremental progress is key to entrepreneurial success. They conclude by inviting listeners to share their productivity tips and leave reviews, stressing the importance of community feedback in growing their podcast.   00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #608 for Wednesday, December 18th, 2024 December 18th: Answer the Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day 00:01:27 Beware the weather 00:03:02 Do you still need business cards? Idea: make it a calling card They’ve gotta have a little THWACK! 00:10:41 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain 00:12:44 Don’t wait to take action Do it now! 00:15:02 Being intentional during TV Time The charmed life is the uncommon life 00:20:49 Business Brain 608 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Action – NOW – Business Brain 608 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the value of fostering community, gaining insights from team members, and continuously experimenting to improve business operations in episode 607 of Business Brain. They begin with lighthearted banter about National Ice Cream Day and share listener reviews and feedback, highlighting the power of community and networking. They recount a listener’s positive experience hiring a guest from a past episode, which inspires a discussion about creating a platform for the Business Brain community, possibly through Slack, Discord, or LinkedIn. The hosts emphasize the importance of asking employees impactful questions like, “What’s the best idea to improve our company?” and “What’s the stupidest thing we’re doing right now?” They explore how these questions, along with additional ones generated through AI tools, can lead to meaningful insights and innovations. However, they stress the need to manage expectations and follow through on actionable feedback to maintain trust and engagement. They also reflect on lessons learned from other businesses, such as Fastenal’s innovative vending machine model, which streamlines supply management for companies. Dave shares his experience with leveraging trade organization memberships for networking and business strategy insights, while Shannon reiterates the importance of experimentation and continuous learning. The episode concludes with a call for listener reviews and feedback, emphasizing the show’s commitment to providing value and encouraging a spirit of collaboration and growth within the Business Brain community. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #607 for Casual Friday, December 13th, 2024 December 13th: National Ice Cream Day 00:01:42 Business Brain Review 00:02:40 Tom hired Jack Tompkins after listening to BB 307 00:04:31 Where is the home for the Business Brain community? 00:08:24 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan. 00:10:02 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! 00:11:20 Two questions to ask and improve your business today Fastenal What is the best idea you have right now to improve our business? What is the stupidest thing we’re doing right now? And ten more questions from ChatGPT 00:21:47 Business Brain 607 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Best and Stupidest – Business Brain 607 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss strategies for elevating your business on episode 606 of Business Brain. They emphasize the importance of going beyond merely listing products on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Whatnot. Building relationships with platform executives and engaging in their communities can lead to invaluable benefits, such as media opportunities and prioritized support. Shannon shares a personal anecdote about gaining concierge service on eBay by participating in a promotional video, which later resulted in significant advantages for his business. They highlight networking as a critical element in business, encouraging sellers to connect on LinkedIn, attend trade shows, and engage in online communities to stand out and create pathways for support and growth. The episode also touches on the importance of end-of-year financial planning, such as evaluating fiscal year alignment, contributing to retirement accounts like solo 401(k)s, and effectively choosing health insurance plans. Shannon advocates for a reflective practice of writing a one-page summary daily or annually, documenting business and personal highlights, and sharing it for accountability. The hosts underscore the value of using tools like AI for summarizing and analyzing personal or business data to identify strengths and weaknesses. They close the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with them for further advice and continue living “charmed lives.” 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #606 for Wednesday, December 11th, 2024 December 11th: National App Day 00:02:00 Selling is not enough Are you a part of the community? Are you connected to the people at the companies whose tools you use? LinkedIn, Conferences, online communities Be positive. Be in the flow. 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan. 00:11:16 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! 00:12:35 End of year tasks Should your company’s year-end be December/calendar year Contribute to your retirement accounts 00:16:13 Healthcare… business plan or individual plan? 00:19:09 Write one page per day…and share it with someone Start thinking about your executive summary 00:21:41 Business Brain 606 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Selling is Not Enough + Year End Tasks – Business Brain 606 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Adam Janney, co-founder of Tuska Outdoors, about his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative products his company creates. Adam shares how he and his partner, Josh, built a business manufacturing hunting blinds and lightweight insulated campers using a unique material made of high-density EPS foam with a hard coating. The discussion highlights their early struggles, such as self-funding by selling their homes, navigating manufacturing challenges, and tackling logistical hurdles. Adam describes how they developed their standout product, the Hitchhiker camper, which originated from a personal need for a lightweight, insulated solution during hunting trips. After showcasing the product at a major outdoor trade show and launching an initial pre-order campaign, the camper gained significant traction, resulting in rapid growth for the company. Adam explains how their product’s unique lightweight and insulated design allows for direct-to-consumer shipping, a rarity in the camper industry. The conversation delves into the dynamics of Adam’s partnership with Josh, emphasizing the importance of complementary skills and clear division of responsibilities. Adam also credits their success to a trusted third-party mentor who provides valuable guidance and perspective. Looking ahead, Adam shares the challenges of scaling their business, including expanding their team and production space, and the need to implement standardized processes to sustain growth. He reflects on their evolution from survival mode in the first year to building a sustainable business in the years ahead. The episode concludes with insights into the value of adaptability, blind faith, and resourcefulness in entrepreneurship. Listeners are encouraged to check out Tuska Outdoors on social media and their website to explore the innovative products that have captivated outdoor enthusiasts. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #605 for Casual Friday, December 6th, 2024 December 6th: National Microwave Oven Day 00:01:26 Special Guest: Adam Janney from Tusca Outdoors From College Baseball to EPS Foam…a business partnership is made! Sold their houses for seed capital Gary Arndt on Business Brain The Right Spouse is a Force-Multiplier “Too cheap to buy a teardrop trailer”…and now you have a business! 00:11:29 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product. 00:13:17 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain. 00:14:36 The value of splitting a business partnership early in the process 00:17:00 Finding that third-party business therapist 00:21:24 Properly managing growth Using Notion to codify your processes 00:24:10 Business Brain 605 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Tusca Outdoors Co-founder Adam Janney – Business Brain 605 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Key Themes: Doubt in Entrepreneurship: – Doubt is a universal challenge for entrepreneurs, whether they’re just starting or experienced in their journey. – The hosts discussed how connecting with other business owners helps normalize these feelings, reducing the isolation often felt by solo entrepreneurs. – Anecdotes were shared about overcoming imposter syndrome, including one story of a successful entrepreneur who grappled with a coach’s offhand remark about intelligence and education. The Importance of Downtime: – Downtime is crucial for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout. – Dave emphasized being intentional about scheduling downtime, viewing it as a necessary task rather than an indulgence. – The hosts shared personal experiences, such as Dave’s recent family-focused holiday and Shannon’s challenges in embracing relaxation amid a busy lifestyle. – The idea of “productive rest” was highlighted, where intentional breaks lead to renewed energy and focus. Community and Vulnerability: – Engaging with others—whether through coaching groups, meetings, or casual conversations—helps dismantle the myth that entrepreneurs must have it all figured out. – Sharing struggles fosters a sense of solidarity and helps build resilience. Listener Engagement: – The hosts encouraged listeners to share their downtime strategies and personal insights on managing self-doubt at feedback@businessbrain.show. Sponsor Highlights: – LegalZoom: Affordable legal solutions for business formation and compliance, with a special discount using promo code BBSHOW. – Notion: A comprehensive productivity tool integrating notes, projects, and AI for seamless workflow management. Takeaways: – Self-doubt is part of the entrepreneurial journey, but sharing and learning from others can make it manageable. – Intentional downtime is as vital as work itself—it fuels productivity and overall well-being. – Building connections within the entrepreneurial community provides invaluable support and shared learning. Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and contribute to the conversation to foster collective growth. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #604 for Wednesday, December 4th, 2024 December 4th: Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day 00:01:27 Doubt Imposter Syndrome 00:07:20 What are you struggling with right now?  00:08:18 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product. 00:10:05 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain. 00:11:25 Be intentional with your downtime You’re not falling in love with being busy, you’re falling in love with being productive. That also means good breaks… schedule downtime in your calendar just like any other task. Those short breaks can be fantastic. 00:19:29 Business Brain 604 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain   The post Doubt and Downtime – Business Brain 604 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

The podcast episode of Business Brain focuses on key entrepreneurial strategies, including rapid idea evaluation, leveraging opportunities, and creative funding strategies. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the importance of quickly vetting business ideas by evaluating potential risks, rewards, and long-term benefits. They share examples, such as avoiding a low-value investment in auctioned products and preferring systems that provide ongoing value over short-term gains. Shannon introduces his “flip-to-fund” strategy, where he finances lifestyle upgrades (like ATVs or property) by finding great deals, buying multiple items, and reselling enough to cover the cost of what he keeps. This approach aligns with his frugality and preference for funding assets with profits rather than direct spending. He emphasizes that research and persistence are key to mastering this method. The hosts also highlight the value of peer groups, accountability, and learning from others to refine decision-making and entrepreneurial skills. They express gratitude for their listeners and reflect on the benefits of collaboration, both in their podcast and personal growth. The episode concludes with a call for listener reviews and engagement, inviting stories of similar strategies and ideas. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #603 for Casual Friday, November 29th, 2024 November 29th: National Day of Listening 00:01:06 Vetting Opportunities Quickly 00:09:04 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan: <https://incogni.com/brain> 00:10:44 Thank you! 00:13:43 Flip to Fund Apple Studio Display LG 5K Display 00:19:10 Business Brain 603 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Vetting Opportunities Quickly – Business Brain 603 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

In this podcast episode, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss key concepts related to entrepreneurship, motivation, and business growth. Shannon shares his experience working on a landing page for an online course, highlighting the importance of using proven design methods to cater to different buyer personas. They discuss the science behind sales pages, including the value of strategically placed calls to action and understanding user behavior. The conversation shifts to managing boredom as an entrepreneur, with both hosts reflecting on how feelings of stagnation can signal the need for new challenges or projects. Shannon shares anecdotes about his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the transition from chaos and growth phases to maintenance mode, and how this shift often led him to explore new ventures. Both agree that understanding when to pivot or delegate responsibilities is critical. They also discuss leadership styles, contrasting the roles of a leader versus a manager, and how recognizing personal strengths can help entrepreneurs focus on their most impactful contributions. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to share their experiences managing entrepreneurial boredom and transitions. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #602 for Wednesday, November 27th, 2024 November 27th: DrinksGiving 00:01:39 Review Business Brain 00:02:05 Landing Page Design Hero page 00:09:18 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan: <https://incogni.com/brain> 00:10:54 Being motivated by boredom Fear of success Don’t treat your employees like you would want to be treated in their shoes 00:19:46 Business Brain 602 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain The post Motivated by Boredom – Business Brain 602 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean explore the power of memes and GIFs in business marketing. They discuss how these tools can effectively cut through the noise, grab customer attention, and add a touch of humor to branding. Shannon shares his experience using trending memes with tools like memelord.tech, while Dave demonstrates how AI, like ChatGPT, can assist in creating context-relevant memes. The duo also highlights the importance of integrating personality into branding. They recount personal stories of leveraging humor, creativity, and human connection to make businesses more relatable, even suggesting playful phone auto-attendants as an example. The episode emphasizes the importance of embracing casual, human touches in business interactions and marketing to foster stronger connections with customers. Listeners are encouraged to share feedback and examples of their own creative branding strategies. Listeners are invited to review the show and share their thoughts at businessbrain.show. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #601 for Casual Friday, November 22nd, 2024 November 22nd: National Go For a Ride Day 00:01:08 The Power of GIFs and Memes How to say GIF Memelord Novelty or Familiarity Relating current events to your business with memes 00:06:11 We’re (still) not selling your identity. 00:09:11 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! 00:10:43 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan. 00:12:08 Making Your Personality your Brand The Alter Ego Effect Replace your hold music with you…telling them a story about your company Get a model release form Computer NERDZ! 00:21:12 601 Outtro Review Business Brain Subscribe to the show feedback@businessbrain.show Call/Text: (567) 274-6977 X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain   The post Adding Your Personality to Your Business – Business Brain 601 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.