

Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast
Shannon Jean & Dave Hamilton
Two long-time small-business owners, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, come to you each week to talk through the trials, success, pitfalls and tips it takes to successfully run a small business in today’s world. Hear real-world folks talk about real-world problems, letting you know not only what it takes to get it done but that you’re not alone in doing it!
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 26, 2024 • 31min
The Shift from Negotiation to Collaboration
In this episode, we explore the intricacies of navigating a challenging business deal negotiation, delving into the frustrations encountered when faced with one-sided and unreasonable agreements from opposing legal teams. The speaker emphasizes the shift towards collaboration over mere negotiation to achieve a mutually agreeable outcome.
The discussion highlights the importance of active participation in negotiations and maintaining a balance between assertiveness and cooperation. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving dynamics of the negotiation process and the significance of informed and collaborative approaches for successful deal-making.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #561 for Wednesday, June 26th, 2024
June 26th: National Barcode Day
00:02:16 Beating Your Business with The Simple Stick
Founders Podcast
Insanely Simple: Steve Jobs
00:04:51 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
00:06:48 Negotiation vs. Collaboration
Nobody Gets Everything
00:29:48 BB 561 Outtro
feedback@businessbrain.show
Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
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Jun 21, 2024 • 14min
Alex Forbes Lane 17 Cabinet Co - Part 2
Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, and Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets discuss building systems and output thinking in business. Alex shares his journey transitioning from furniture making to focusing on cabinets, emphasizing lean manufacturing principles, delegation, and hiring for continuous improvement.
They mention “Output Thinking” by John Seifer, the challenges of managing growth, and the value of seeking outside help. Alex highlights the importance of learning and adapting, sharing his experience with the business community on X for support and connection. The episode emphasizes embracing continuous improvement and community support in entrepreneurship.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #560 for Casual Friday, June 21st, 2024
June 21st: National Day of The Gong
Guest: Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets
Less Planning, More Action!
…And then you change and start planning
LEAN Mentality with Two-Second Improvements
John Seiffer’s “Output Thinking”
Finding an SMB pocket on Social Media…a Support Group!
Fine-Tuning Social Media
BB 560 Outtro
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 Alex Forbes Lane 17 Cabinet Co – Part 2 – Business Brain 560 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Jun 19, 2024 • 39min
Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinet Co, Part 1
On Business Brain, we chat with Alex Forbes, founder of Lane 17 Cabinet Company. Alex traces his entrepreneurial evolution from woodworking to specialized cabinetry amid pandemic challenges. He discusses delegation, lean principles, and continuous improvement, crediting the X community for support. The conversation emphasizes authenticity in social media, learning from experiences, and collaboration opportunities for entrepreneurs online.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #559 for Wednesday, June 19th, 2024
June 19th: Juneteenth, National Wristwatch Day, and also National Martini Day
00:01:30 Guest: Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets
00:02:00 Growing up in an entrepreneurial household
00:03:32 A Quick post-College detour to the real world then…Lane 17!
Named after Fire Lane 17 on the lakeside
00:05:33 From Cutting Boards to Restaurant Furniture
Going into debt…great motivator!
00:07:39 Covid opens up the door for a pivot to custom cabinetry
00:08:41 The A-Ha Moment
00:11:48 Managing The Terrible Memories
00:14:47 Expanding your internal footprint
00:19:14 “The Business Had to Grow Through Debt”
BB 559 Outtro
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 Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinet Co Part 1 – Business Brain 559 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Jun 14, 2024 • 23min
Saved by my Ego
Join us on Business Brain as we explore a fresh segment idea for animal shelters, envisioning a community-based system where dog adopters provide mutual support like pet-sitting. We discuss the potential for shelters to offer additional services for financial sustainability and touch on the concept of “business therapy.” Sharing a personal anecdote, we reflect on the importance of humility and continuous learning. Embracing challenges and feedback, we encourage a collaborative environment for growth and development.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #558 for Casual Friday, June 14th, 2024
June 14th: National Pop Goes The Weasel Day
00:01:06 Codifying Business Therapy
00:09:35 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
00:10:55 My Ego Saved Me From Itself.
00:21:50 BB 557 Outtro
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 Saved by my Ego – Business Brain 558 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Jun 12, 2024 • 19min
Coaches and Courses – Business Brain 557
Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss the superhero complex in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of empowering others and letting go of control. They explore the qualities of a good coach and the value of defining success metrics when seeking coaching. The hosts reflect on featuring coaches on the show, considering the insights they could offer on coaching strategies. They invite audience feedback on effective coaching characteristics and encourage open dialogue for shared learning.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #557 for Wednesday, June 12th, 2024
June 12th: Superman Day
00:01:03 Superhero Complex
Main Character Syndrome
David Lee Roth epitomizes Lead Singer Syndrome
Gary Cherone knows how to manage this!
Business Brain 530 – The Alter Ego Effect
00:06:36 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
00:07:57 Coaches, Courses, and their value (like therapy!)
00:18:09 BB 557 Outtro
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 Coaches and Courses – Business Brain 557 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Jun 7, 2024 • 16min
Power Phrases + Mobile Locker Co
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon share light-hearted banter about donuts and amusing business jargon before delving into Dave’s exhilarating experience at a Rolling Stones concert. They discuss the Mobile Locker Company’s innovative solution for secure storage at events, praising its business model and problem-solving abilities. The conversation transitions to logistical challenges at venues, emphasizing the importance of efficient entry and exit procedures.
The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to share unique business problem-solving stories, leaving audiences with a blend of humor, practical advice, and entrepreneurial insights into event management and customer service dynamics.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #556 for Casual Friday, June 7th, 2024
June 7th: National Donut Day
00:01:22 “Is there anything that would cause you to not attend our appointment?”
“I’m glad to help, I know you will do the same for me.”
00:03:35 Mobile Locker company
Yondr Phone Sleeves
00:14:30 Parking as the friction point
00:16:02 BB 556 Outtro
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 Power Phrases + Mobile Locker Co – Business Brain 556 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Jun 5, 2024 • 23min
Become a Master of Compartmentalization
Join us in this episode of Business Brain, marking our 555th episode, as Dave and Shannon share insights on consistency and persistence in business success. We explore compartmentalization, emphasizing clear boundaries, designated workspaces, and prioritizing tasks with the Eisenhower matrix.
We also discuss delegation of non-core tasks and reflecting on accomplishments through a “to-did” list. Share your compartmentalization tips with us as we collectively enhance our business prowess. Tune in for strategies to elevate productivity and efficiency in business management.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #555 for Wednesday, June 5th, 2024
June 5th: National Gingerbread Day
00:01:29 Thanks for your patience
Delivering Positive Frameworks
00:04:51 Be an Excellent Curator
feedback@businessbrain.show
00:08:07 Master of Compartmentalization
Business Brain Episode 376
00:10:00 Shaming Myself for Multitasking
00:15:57 Chunking up your day
The Pomodoro Method with Bob LeVitus on Business Brain
Manage the Brain Reset!
00:18:57 The Eisenhower Matrix
00:21:28 To Did Lists
00:22:15 BB 555 Outtro
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
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May 31, 2024 • 21min
Balance and Chaos
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the importance of balancing chaos and routine in life. We discuss how alternating between periods of overload and downtime can keep life engaging and prevent monotony. By sharing personal anecdotes of busy schedules, hosting guests, and finding relaxation, we redefine retirement as a phase for new adventures and risks. We highlight the significance of chaos in creating lasting memories and narratives, encouraging listeners to share their own strategies for maintaining this balance. Embracing change, like trying out different sides of the bed, can introduce fresh perspectives. Our aim is to inspire others to welcome the unpredictability and vibrancy that chaos offers, fostering a journey of self-discovery and equilib
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #554 for Casual Friday, May 31st, 2024
May 31st: National Save Your Hearing Day
00:02:06 Talking directly to your customers, one-on-one…en masse
00:08:39 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
00:10:23 Balance and Chaos
“A rut is just a grave with two ends kicked out of it”
“Dance like nobody’s watching”
00:15:00 Retirement is the freedom to do what you really want
00:20:01 BB 554 Outtro
feedback@businessbrain.show
Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
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Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Balance and Chaos – Business Brain 554 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

May 29, 2024 • 19min
What's in it for me?
In this episode of Business Brain, we discussed the significance of addressing customer needs by focusing on “what’s in it for me.” Emphasizing a customer-centric approach, we explored leveraging social proof, showcasing real-world examples, and aligning marketing strategies with customer preferences to build trust and lasting relationships. By prioritizing customer feedback and delivering exceptional experiences, businesses can enhance their marketing strategies, drive growth, and create meaningful connections with their audience.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #553 for Wednesday, May 29th, 2024
May 29th: National Paperclip Day
00:01:50 Tiny Tip: Newsletter Subject Line: use an emoji to brand yourself
00:05:23 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year
00:07:11 What’s in it for me? — from your customers’ perspective.
Make your customer look good to their boss (or their client)
Create the avatar of your customer, and target that person.
Avatars vs. Real People
Tyler Purcell on Business Brain
00:18:39 BB 553 Outtro
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 What’s in it for me? Business Brain 553 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

May 24, 2024 • 25min
The RISEN AI Framework
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the frustrations with traditional banks and the need for improved banking practices, prompted by a recent experience with Zelle.
Shifting focus, we explore the RISEN method for enhancing productivity and content creation through AI interactions. Delving into AI tools like Cast Magic and Loom, we unveil their transformative capabilities in synthesizing and repurposing content across platforms. Looking ahead, we envision AI as a powerful assistant in optimizing content creation, signaling a promising future for innovation and efficiency in the business world.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #552 for Casual Friday, May 24th, 2024
May 24th: Lakeside Park Day
00:00:57 The Freakin’ Banks
Zelle
00:07:45 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
00:10:00 The RISEN AI Prompt Method
Mulch Masters
Becoming a good AI Prompt Creator
Castmagic
Loom AI
Refine and Repurpose your Content with AI
AOL Instant Messenger
00:24:51 BB 551 Outtro
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 The RISEN AI Framework – Business Brain 552 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.


