
Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast
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!
Latest episodes

Oct 4, 2024 • 21min
Lifetime SEO
In this episode of Business Brain, we examine travel dynamics and the lessons learned through family trips. Dave shares insights from his Disney World experience, emphasizing the importance of adapting expectations for diverse family needs.
Shannon recounts his New York City journey, highlighting time management strategies and innovative solutions like a three-wheeled walker for his mother.
The discussion covers resource management in high-demand environments, particularly with systems like Disney’s Lightning Lane, and the value of upfront planning for long-term satisfaction. Shannon introduces the concept of lifetime SEO, urging authenticity in our online presence. The episode wraps up with a reflection on strategic thinking and adaptability in navigating life’s challenges.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #587 for Casual Friday, October 4th, 2024
October 4th: National Body Language Day
00:00:49 Managing your own expectations
00:02:21 The value to you of teaching others to use their Business Brain
Use Disney Lightning Lane
Fall in love with problem solving
00:12:03 Give yourself permission to be a VIP!
00:14:45 The Value of Lifetime SEO
Google’s NotebookLM
00:20:27 BB 587 Outtro
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
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Sep 27, 2024 • 19min
AI Update + Explain Your Business
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss the intersection of AI and entrepreneurship. Shannon shares his transition from traditional search engines to AI tools like ChatGPT, highlighting practical applications for small businesses. The conversation covers the advancements in AI that enhance creative processes and how Apple Intelligence aids in information management.
Shannon reflects on his journey to building a media company focused on consulting and knowledge-sharing, emphasizing the value of community in coaching. They conclude by urging entrepreneurs to embrace AI technology and remain adaptable in a changing marketplace.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #586 for Casual Friday, September 27th, 2024
September 27th: Morning Show Hosts Day
00:01:10 What are you doing with AI?
ChatGPT in the car
Apple Intelligence on my iPhone with Beta software
Creating Images – tip: tell it “no words are necessary, I’ll add those later.”
Programming
00:09:59 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!
00:12:05 Dave to Shannon: What *is* your new business?
A ME-dia company, productizing one’s knowledge
00:18:45 BB 586 Outtro
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 AI Update + Explain Your Business – Business Brain 586 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 25, 2024 • 15min
Hiring Risk vs. Investment
In this episode of Business Brain, we examine the importance of organizational charts for enhancing efficiency and communication, even for solopreneurs. We discuss how defined roles facilitate quicker problem-solving and smoother operations.
We also analyze the strategic implications of hiring new sales representatives, weighing options for financing these positions. Additionally, we explore when to shift client accounts from “house accounts” to those needing active management, emphasizing the balance between rewarding sales personnel and sustainable business practices.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #585 for Wednesday, September 25th, 2024
September 25th: National Daughters Day
00:00:59 Org Chart Upgrade to an Accountability Chart
Adding responsibilities
Maximize Efficiency
00:04:30 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!
00:06:02 Business Therapy: Hiring Out of Cash Flow vs. War Chest
Value: Freeing up YOUR time
00:10:27 Managing “House” Accounts vs. Business Development
00:14:12 BB 585 Outtro
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 Hiring Risk vs. Investment – Business Brain 585 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 20, 2024 • 21min
Being Intentional with Your Time
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss strategies for managing a diverse social media presence effectively. By mastering one platform at a time, we can foster genuine engagement and tailor content to specific audiences. We highlight the value of delegation through a content manager, which eases the burden of content creation while preserving authenticity.
We also explore the importance of intentionality in commitments, sharing my experience stepping back from a draining volunteer role. This underscores the need to align our choices with personal values and professional goals. Ultimately, we emphasize mindful time allocation and encourage listener feedback to foster community engagement as we navigate the ongoing journey of business growth.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #584 for Casual Friday, September 20th, 2024
September 20th: National String Cheese Day
00:01:00 Social Media Approach: Shotgun or Sniper?
Divide and Conquer: One channel at a time
Michael Girdley on X – Weekly Interview to Create the Content
CastMagic
00:09:04 SPONSOR: Keeper. Track expenses, find deductions, and get a bigger tax refund. Get 10% off @Keeper.tax at keepertax.com/business! #keepertaxpod
00:10:43 Being Intentional With Your Time
Are you an energy monster?
Always maintain a bias to action!
Selling Yourself on Quitting
00:20:36 BB 584 Outtro
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 Being Intentional with Your Time – Business Brain 584 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 18, 2024 • 20min
How You Present an Idea is as important as the Idea Itself
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the art of effective idea presentation, using vacation rental maintenance as a case study to underscore stakeholder engagement. We discuss the financial benefits of full-time employees versus contractors and introduce the “two-week experiment” to foster buy-in.
We highlight the significance of body language, eye contact, and humor in communication, sharing personal experiences to illustrate engagement techniques. We wrap up with a call for listeners to share their own tips, emphasizing the importance of leaving audiences wanting more.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #583 for Wednesday, September 18th, 2024
September 18th: Rice Krispie Treat Day
00:01:30 Hiring an employee vs. a string of contractors
Vacation vs. Business
Vacation Rentals Business
00:06:41 SPONSOR: Keeper. Track expenses, find deductions, and get a bigger tax refund. Get 10% off @Keeper.tax at keepertax.com/business! #keepertaxpod
00:08:18 How You Present Ideas is Just as Valuable As the Idea
Two Week Experiment
Present Ideas Interactively
Loom
Learn to Take Up Space – Be a Longneck
Always Leave Them Wanting More
Two Hour Cocktail
Laugh and smile with your audience
Find connection moments
00:19:47 BB 583 Outtro
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 Presenting Ideas – Business Brain 583 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 13, 2024 • 21min
Are You Coachable?
In this episode of Business Brain, we examine coachability and its vital role in personal and professional growth. Building on insights from Dan Magazoo of Ride the Wave, we discuss the shift towards rapid scaling in entrepreneurship and the essential qualities of a coachable person, such as self-awareness and accountability.
We share anecdotes illustrating how owning mistakes can foster a positive learning environment while also highlighting the importance of optimism in engaging with mentorship. Ultimately, we emphasize that embracing coachability not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens team dynamics. Tune in to reflect on your own coachability and its impact on your success.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #582 for Casual Friday, September 13th, 2024
00:00:46 September 13th: Programmers Day
00:01:12 Protecting your business vs. Scaling your business
Dissecting Business Brain 581 with Daniel Magazu
Starting off based upon commission instead of just giving it away for free
00:05:00 Are you coachable?
Are you willing to admit you don’t know how to do something? Or are you more apt to just learn how to do it yourself?
00:08:49 Hire people who are coachable
Ask potential hires: What don’t you know? What are you interested in knowing?
Are you comfortable being accountable…or are you interested in blaming someone else?
Ed Asner Nuclear Reactor SNL Skit
Optimists are more coachable
00:20:25 BB 582 Outtro
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 Are You Coachable? Business Brain 582 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 11, 2024 • 26min
Daniel Magazu from Ride the Wave
In this episode of Business Brain, we talk with Daniel Magazu, founder of Ride the Wave, about organic content marketing for home services. Daniel discusses his entrepreneurial journey and how Facebook groups can empower businesses to engage with local communities, particularly targeting decision-makers like moms.
He emphasizes authenticity in social media strategies, crafting genuine client introductions that highlight community contributions. The discussion also covers the importance of adhering to community guidelines and the need for marketing diversification beyond Facebook. Daniel shares insights into his transition from landscaping to entrepreneurship and offers practical advice on leveraging client referrals to navigate the changing marketing landscape. Listeners gain valuable lessons in adaptability, community engagement, and business innovation.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #581 for Wednesday, September 11th, 2024
00:00:49 September 11th: National Make Your Bed Day
00:01:22 Special Guest: Daniel Magazu from Ride The Wave
Focusing on Facebook Groups to target local communities to help clients market to potential customers
00:02:56 Selecting the right groups
Only 30-40% allow businesses to post
00:04:11 Facebook Groups Marketing Strategy
Pictures Matter most
Give a nice introduction
Scan for content that identifies questions that need answers
00:07:59 Create something or work for someone else?
Daniel was a freshman in college five years ago
Inspiration: soliciting for babysitting jobs works in local groups, why not landscaping?
That helped Daniel’s landscaping business…but why not take the lesson and build a business?
Got two test clients to see how it went…success!
Lesson: Get referrals from clients early on
Lesson: Celebrate the success of your clients (which helps promote your own business)
00:16:47 What happens when Facebook Groups Marketing Doesn’t Work anymore?
One idea: offering new verticals or services
Keyword Tool that identifies Keywords in Facebook and Nextdoor groups
Success Should Scare You: When you have success, find the next cash source
Success breeds complacency
00:21:16 How many people do you have working for you?
Daniel: I do all my recruiting myself, focused on off-shore labor
Find the right places to splurge: for Ride The Wave, that’s copywriters.
00:24:10 BB 581 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 Daniel Magazu from Ride the Wave – Business Brain 581 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 6, 2024 • 24min
Fearless or Foolish?
In this episode of Business Brain, we tackle procrastination on Fight Procrastination Day 2024. Shannon and I share our experiences, exploring how anxiety often fuels our delays while sometimes leading to better decision-making. We discuss the challenges of managing multiple projects and consider using virtual assistants and innovative tools like Crush to improve productivity.
Reflecting on fear, we highlight its dual role as both protective and limiting, with insights from Brian Friss on making decisions beyond fear. I share my journey with the fear of failure and the necessity of cultivating an abundance mindset. We encourage listeners to engage with us on these themes as we navigate the complexities of procrastination and personal growth.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #580 for Casual Friday, September 6th, 2024
00:00:49 September 6th: Fight Procrastination Day
Notion
Crush The Memory
Limitless Private Cloud
00:06:29 Informed Delivery for Business PO Boxes
00:08:50 Learning (and setting) your Fear Baseline
Brian Friss on Business Brain
This stressful thing “will have ended”.
Embrace the fear of being A Failure
Abundance Mindset
00:22:39 BB 580 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 Fearless or Foolish? Business Brain 580 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Sep 4, 2024 • 19min
Ask Forgiveness, Not Permission
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the significance of Global Talent Acquisition Day and its role in business strategy. We explore the origins of this day, established by KRT Marketing in 2018, and share methodologies to improve talent acquisition processes.
Through a personal anecdote, we emphasize the need for model release forms to protect intellectual property rights and suggest practical onboarding steps for securing consent.
The conversation highlights risk-taking in business, advocating for the mindset of “ask for forgiveness, not permission” while balancing calculated decision-making with impulsive actions. Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences with talent acquisition and risk management.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #579 for Wednesday, September 4th, 2024
00:00:47 September 4th: Global Talent Acquisition Day
00:01:56 Have your employees sign a model release form
Maybe they’re in the witness protection program
Work for Hire
00:08:19 Forgiveness vs. Permission
Figure it out as you go!
I can solve most problems with more sales
WIth great power comes great responsibility
Shannon Jean’s First Law of Auctions: Never buy anything unless you know what you can sell it for
BB 579 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 Ask Forgiveness, Not Permission – Business Brain 579 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.

Aug 30, 2024 • 14min
Borrowed Credibility
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss strategies for enhancing entrepreneurial skills and navigating social situations. We introduce the concept of “foot-in-mouth disease,” encouraging listeners to embrace potential embarrassment as a catalyst for growth. Sharing experiences from a trade show and a concert, I highlight the importance of engaging with others.
We also cover “borrowed credibility,” a method we used to gain testimonials and experience for our coaching business. We explore the notion that audience loyalty stems from the host’s engagement rather than guest prominence. We conclude by sharing personal anecdotes on leveraging relationships to create opportunities in our ventures.
00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #578 for Casual Friday, August 30th, 2024
August 30th: National Toasted Marshmallow Day
00:00:45 Embrace Foot-In-Mouth Disease
Ask Questions: “How does this work? I didn’t know that!”
00:04:40 Borrowed Credibility
00:10:37 The story of why Shannon and Dave met
Stacking up lifestyle businesses
00:13:07 BB 578 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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