Beyond Fulfillment Podcast

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Dr. Gail Lebovic: 1. Find an unmet need - Dr. Gail specializes in identifying gaps in the healthcare industry where current solutions are inadequate. Whether it's due to inefficiency, high costs, or a complete lack of options, she focuses on these areas to create innovative solutions. A prime example is her company Nasoclenz, which addresses the common problem of nasal congestion with a user-friendly and potentially more effective design compared to existing products. 2. Build a Strong Foundation before laying any bricks: Dr. Gail believes in meticulous planning before launching a company. She dedicates 1-2 years to thoroughly researching the feasibility of a product idea. This includes analyzing market size, potential regulatory obstacles, and investigating intellectual property to ensure there are no infringement issues. Additionally, she focuses on securing funding, assembling a team with the right skillsets, and developing a clear strategy for bringing the product to market. 3. Embrace Calculated Risk-Taking - Dr. Gail understands that not all risks are equal. While she conducts extensive research to minimize risk, she also recognizes that startups inherently involve some level of risk. The key is to take calculated risks, where the potential rewards outweigh the potential downsides. This could mean venturing into new markets or utilizing unproven technologies that have the potential to disrupt the industry. Bonus Takeaway - Never Stop Learning - Dr. Gail emphasizes the importance of maintaining curiosity and an open mind as an entrepreneur. Lifelong learning is crucial for staying ahead. Being receptive to new ideas and knowledge from unexpected sources can lead to breakthroughs and innovation. Dr. Gail actively seeks opportunities to learn, whether it's through engaging conversations on an airplane or attending conferences outside of her usual field. #entrepreneurship #startabusiness #podcastepisode #podcastguest #healthcare #healthcareindustry #healthcareinnovations #funding

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Juli Lassow: Don’t overlook the opportunity within retail: There is significant potential in the brick-and-mortar retail sector. Julie, with her experience in mass retail, identifies opportunities in this industry. Physical stores remain relevant by allowing customers to interact with products, receive personalized assistance, and foster a sense of community. Forward-thinking retailers understand the importance of offering a unified shopping experience that caters to customer preferences. Public speaking is a powerful skill: Juli has leveraged the power of public speaking as a highly effective marketing tool, attributing her success to years of practice and continuous skill development. She emphasizes the importance of honing her craft through professional organizations like Heroic Public Speaking, which have helped her enhance both her content development and stage presence. Rethink how you view supplier relationships: Juli detailed how building supplier partnerships can be likened to dating, as it involves getting to know each other and establishing clear expectations . She approaches supplier partnerships using a framework similar to a consultant's matrix. This involves self-reflection on organizational strategies and priorities, sharing perspectives with partners, assessing existing partnerships, and envisioning a new future. Open communication, asking questions, and seeking feedback are essential for establishing effective communication. Regular reflection and evaluation ensure the plan stays on track and can be adjusted as needed. Bonus takeaway: The importance of the circular economy: The circular economy is crucial in the retail industry. Julie encountered this concept during her transition from Target to launching her own business. She coined the term "green guilt" to address the challenge of encouraging consumption while minimizing environmental impact. The circular economy provides a flexible framework for retailers and brands to understand priorities and implement strategic plans. It allows businesses to tailor their approach based on specific needs and the preferences of customers and clients. Retailers and brands have responded positively to this approach, recognizing the value of reducing waste and maximizing resource utilization. #retail #retailstore #supplychainmanagement #retailinnovation #onlineretail #onlineshopping #brickandmortar #stores

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Nick Schrock: 1: Embrace Resourcefulness. Bootstrapping a startup requires founders to think outside the box and be resourceful in their approach to winning business. Valoroo 's success story highlights the importance of being creative when starting with limited resources. Offering guarantees, like free trials, helped them overcome initial skepticism and win key clients. 2: Transitioning from Founder to Leader As Valoroo experienced growth, Nick had to transition from being a hands-on contributor to a leader focused on building a strong team.. By empowering others and building a capable team, founders can delegate tasks, ensure scalability, and drive overall business growth. Recognizing the need to shift from being involved in every aspect of the business to leading and strategizing has been critical for Nick in Valaroo’s growth 3: Company Culture is HUGE Valoroo places a major focus on company culture, understanding its role as a key driver of productivity. They invest in creating a positive work environment that empowers employees and sets them up for success. A strong company culture fosters employee engagement, loyalty, and motivation, leading to higher productivity and better business outcomes. Prioritizing building a positive and inclusive culture that aligns with their values and vision has paid off big for Valoroo Bonus Takeaway : The Impact on Employees' Lives The most rewarding aspect of Nick's business journey is witnessing the positive impact Valoroo has on its employees' lives. This impact extends beyond financial security, as Valoroo provides opportunities for personal growth through meaningful work. By prioritizing employee well-being and development, entrepreneurs can create a fulfilling and purpose-driven workplace. #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #startup #startuplife #logistics #freight #freightforwarding

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Virind Gurjal 1. Be open to unexpected possibilities: Business ideas often arise from serendipitous moments. The inception of EV Bots came from Virind's son's robotics project and his expertise in fuel management and mechanical engineering. This led to the development of a solution for the lack of infrastructure in the electric vehicle (EV) industry. 2. Embrace change as an opportunity: Change is inevitable in any industry. By embracing change, we can adapt and thrive in new and evolving environments. Virind successfully transitioned from a corporate career to entrepreneurship, raising funds from friends, family, venture capitalists, and angel investors. He used these changes as opportunities to develop new skills, actively network, and present his company to various organizations. 3. Build with the future in mind: Building with the future in mind allows founders to create sustainable, scalable, and competitive companies. EV Bots has designed robots with scalability in mind, accommodating future advancements in battery technology. Although the charging infrastructure for EVs currently lags behind, efforts are being made to catch up with the growing demand. Bonus takeaway Harness the power of community: Virind emphasizes the power of community and collaboration in addressing the challenges of the EV industry. Electric companies are recognizing the potential business opportunities in the shift towards EVs. By working together as a society, they believe these problems can be overcome. #robotics #startup #logisticsindustry #entrepreneurship #businessowner #businesssuccess #networking

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my podcast interview with Robert Bain: 1. Have a long time-horizon: Bain emphasized the significance of choosing a career path with long-term prospects. He shared his father's experience in the telecom industry and how he had to make a career change when the industry shifted towards mobile technology. Bain recognized the enduring need for goods and services to be transported and saw logistics as a viable long-term industry. Living in Iowa helped him understand the vital roles of farmers and drivers in America's economy. 2. Success attracts success: Bain discussed his preference to be around top performers. He detailed how he’s currently part of a remote team at GLCS,. and expressed his respect for GLCS CEO' Nate Johnson’s expertise in technology and his ability to maximize ROI. Drawing parallels to team sports, Robert emphasized the positive impact of being around other successful people, as it elevates his own performance and contributed to his personal growth. 3. Embrace life's unexpected turns: Bain shared his journey into powerlifting. He initially started lifting weights in college after getting injured playing soccer. A Russian trainer at the YMCA recognized Bain’s strength potential and encouraged him to compete in powerlifting. Reluctantly participating in his first meet and finishing fourth sparked a passion for the sport. Witnessing the intense environment and impressive feats of strength at the meet ignited his dedication to powerlifting. He joined a strong team and has been part of the Wolfpack Barbell club for the past eight years, earning his moniker: “ The Strongest Man in Logistics.” Bonus takeaway: Hard work is essential: Bain highlighted the importance of hard work, even in a culture that promotes work-life balance. He shared a personal conversation with his son, who wants to start playing football. Bain explained that despite starting later than others, consistent effort and going above and beyond can lead to success. He used the example of Kobe Bryant, who famously outworked everyone else on his path to greatness. Bain acknowledged the need for balance but emphasized that hard work is what sets the best apart from the rest. #careeradvice #careersuccess #careers #entrepreneurship #hardwork #worklifebalance #logisticsindustry #logistics

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Jessica Windham: 1. Be clear on the problem you're solving: Jessica observed a widespread problem of burnout and disengagement in the logistics industry, with a staggering 69% burnout rate among professionals. By addressing this issue of mental wellness first, Jessica can better solve the specific challenges that companies face in logistics consulting. 2. Look for patterns: Jessica introduced the concept of the Logistics Doom Loop, where constant disruptions lead to replanning and burnout. She advocates for creating intentional bandwidth for innovation and strategic thinking, such as efficient email management, to break this cycle and promote proactive problem-solving. 3. Bet on your authentic self: Jessica, at almost 40, chose to embrace her leadership philosophy and values, centering the well-being of logistics teams in industry conversations. Describing herself as a "logistics badass," she emphasizes the importance of authenticity in entrepreneurship, blending professionalism with genuine self-expression. Bonus takeaway. Supportive communities are powerful: Jessica is an ambassador for the networking group Ladies Who Logistic and highlights the significance of a supportive community for women in logistics. These communities foster authentic connections and contribute to professional growth. #businessowner #burnout #burnoutprevention #logisticsleadership #ecommerce #logisticsindustry #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur #womensupportingwomen

Here are my Top 3 Takeaways from my conversation with Tyler Cerny: 1) Childhood driven passions: Sometimes, the answer to what we’re meant to do lies in our early experiences. Tyler's passion for speaking has always been present since childhood. Even when he was involved in consulting and other endeavors, speaking remained his primary interest. Tyler found clarity in pursuing his passion. 2) Who am I called to serve? Tyler emphasizes the importance of identifying the audience he is meant to serve. Instead of solely focusing on the "what" or "why" of his work, he centers his attention on the "who." By understanding the specific group or individuals he is called to serve, Tyler can align his business and efforts accordingly. 3) Turning setbacks into opportunities: Tyler faced a setback when an agency he hired to help him secure a TEDx Talk failed to deliver within the promised timeframe and refused to refund him. However, he didn't let this deter him. Instead, he persevered and managed to give his TEDx Talk a couple of years later, which ended up going viral. Through this experience, Tyler saw areas he could drastically improve for others & started his own successful TEDx Talk agency. Look for opportunities within setbacks, as this can lead to unexpected, positive outcomes. Bonus Takeaway: Value-Driven Business Relationships: Tyler also emphasized the importance of conducting business with people who align with his values. He believes in building meaningful relationships and not just pursuing financial gain. By focusing on working with individuals who share his values and doing business for the right reasons, Tyler ensures that his business relationships are based on mutual respect and purpose. Website: tylercerny.com Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylercerny/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tylerdcerny/ Tyler's Viral TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/vzo2wMWa9GQ Free TEDx Placement Consultation: https://calendly.com/tylercerny/tedx-placement

Here are the top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Joe Santaularia: 1) Be willing to pivot - Joe's experience highlights the importance of being open to new opportunities and being willing to pivot based on new information. Despite his initial reluctance towards commercial real estate, he embraced the chance to intern during college and discovered his passion for it, showcasing his ability to pivot when necessary. 2) Networking is a game-changer - Joe’s career evolution from solely relying on cold calls to prioritizing networking and building relationships demonstrates the power of shifting focus. By moving away from transactional approaches and emphasizing genuine connections, Joe was able to break through plateaus and establish a reputation for relationship-building in the industry. 3) Think long-term - Joe's forward-thinking perspective on networking reflects his commitment to playing the long game. By setting his sights on a 40-year plan and understanding the value of patience, he positions himself for sustained success and growth in the future. Bonus takeaway – Find a way to innovate - Joe's transition from traditional networking to hosting roundtable networking calls showcases his innovative approach to relationship-building. By creating engaging platforms for connection and collaboration, Joe has made a significant impact on others in the industry, emphasizing the importance of continued innovation in business practices. #commercialrealestate #realtor #networking #networkingskills #entrepreneurship #entrepreneur

Here are my top three takeaways from my conversation with T. Dan Nichols: 1) The Power of Persistence: During our discussion, Dan highlighted how his team was able to go from concept to market in a matter of months. He attributed this accomplishment to the unwavering persistence of one of the co-founders, Dennis, who simply refused to accept "no" as an answer. The relentless pursuit of their goals and the insistence on getting things done immediately played a crucial role in their rapid market entry. 2) Embrace Failure as a Path to Success: One thing Dan emphasized during our conversation is that there is no way around it - you have to take action and be comfortable with the possibility of failure. The more you immerse yourself in the process, embracing failures, learning from them, picking yourself up, and continuously improving, the greater your chances of achieving success. Accepting this mindset and adopting it wholeheartedly will accelerate your results. 3) Discomfort is a Catalyst for Growth: During our discussion, Dan shared that whenever he feels uncomfortable, he becomes excited because he knows that stepping out of his comfort zone is necessary for personal and professional growth. He embraces discomfort as a sign that he's pushing boundaries and understands that the rewards on the other side will be worth it. Bonus Takeaway: The Power of Thinking Differently: Dan recalled that he’s seen many entrepreneurs stumble when they frontload their businesses. Instead of taking on unnecessary debt or purchasing unnecessary items, he advised a mindset shift. He shared an example from his experience running a gameshow company, where he secured deals first before investing in the set or equipment. The ability to think differently & be resourceful can be a huge advantage for companies just starting out. #healthcare #healthcareindustry #ecommerce #ecommerceplatform #businesssuccess #businessgrowth #entrepreneurship

Here are my top 3 takeaways from my conversation with Brielle Wohlenhaus: 1. The Influence of Environment: Our social environment & the people we interact with on the daily basis can have a significant impact on our results Brielle detailed how she made a deliberate choice to live alone instead of in a college dorm to have control over her environment and avoid unwanted influences. According to Brielle, "environment is everything." Taking charge of your surroundings and actively shaping them to support your success makes it much easier to achieve your goals. 2. The Power of Positive Role Models: Having positive role models, especially from parents, can play a crucial role in a person's success. Brielle attributed her maturity beyond her years to the influence of her two wonderful parents. Their guidance and example have shaped her mindset and contributed to her growth. Whether you’re a parent, business owner, mentor or in any leadership position, always be aware of the impact your influence has on those around you. 3. The Importance of Routine: Establishing a consistent routine provides structure and organization to your day. Brielle shared her equation: routine multiplied by discipline equals reaching your most important goals. By sticking to a routine and practicing discipline, you can develop positive habits that align with your goals. Consistently engaging in activities that support your aspirations leads to ingrained behaviors that can compound your results over time. Bonus takeaway: Choose Progress over Perfection: Waiting for perfect conditions before acting often leads to procrastination and inaction. Brielle discussed her approach of taking messy action when creating videos, using what she had even in imperfect circumstances. Starting from where you are with what you have allows you to build momentum and make adjustments along the way. Prioritizing progress over perfection allows you to move forward and make strides towards your goals. #dailyhabits #dailyroutine #progressoverperfection #businessowner #entrepreneurship #rolemodels