

Waves Business Coaching
Jacob Karnes
Welcome to the Waves Business Coaching podcast, where we help you build your dream business so that you can have more freedom. Waves Business Coaching is hosted by Jacob Karnes, the owner of Waves Business Coaching and best-selling author of Master Your First Job. You'll hear from Jacob and other subject-matter experts so that you can create the dream business you need to get the freedom you desire. Visit our websites: WavesBusinessCoaching.com MasterYourFirstJob.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

Oct 7, 2025 • 48min
55. Olympic Gold Medal Mindset with Joe Jacobi
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, host Jacob Karnes interviews Olympic gold medalist Joe Jacobi, who shares his journey from a young canoeist to an Olympic champion. Joe discusses the importance of being fascinated with the process, the role of curiosity in personal growth, and the significance of relationships formed through competition. He reflects on the challenges faced leading up to the Olympics, the impact of sports psychology on team dynamics, and the lessons learned from winning the gold medal. The conversation emphasizes the value of connection, creativity, and continuous improvement in both sports and life.Get Joe’s Book: https://a.co/d/gjoh6euConnect with Joe: https://joejacobi.comGet Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Joe's Journey04:48 The Olympic Experience and Its Impact07:46 From Summer Camp to Olympic Dreams10:53 The Road to the Olympics13:33 Building Relationships in Sports16:36 Overcoming Challenges with Team Dynamics19:32 The Role of Sports Psychology22:36 The Olympic Trials and Preparation25:38 The Final Race and Winning Gold28:30 Reflections on Relationships and Curiosity31:33 The Importance of Connection and Creativity37:30 The Power of Sports as Life Teachers40:32 Fascination with the Process43:27 First Jobs and Early Experiences46:20 Adventure Coaching and Life Transitions

Sep 23, 2025 • 45min
54. Why Your Identity Shapes Every Business Decision with Cassie Shae
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, host Jacob Karnes interviews Cassie Shea, a coach specializing in identity transformation for entrepreneurs and tech leaders. They discuss Cassie's journey from corporate leadership to coaching, the importance of identity in achieving business goals, and how to overcome imposter syndrome. The conversation also explores the alignment of personal desires with business objectives, the role of creativity, and the significance of addressing shame in personal and professional growth. Cassie emphasizes the need to want what you want without justification and the power of sharing one's gifts with the world.Identity Worksheet: https://docs.google.com/document/d/19Qv0roptGILdOJ43vnm3pyncxgxoZ1_U-DUKhIP3C8w/edit?tab=t.0#heading=h.y6d9asufrl6gGet Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Cassie's Journey04:23 Identity Transformation in Business07:15 The Importance of First Jobs10:23 Understanding Identity Work13:13 The Power of Identity in Business Growth16:25 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome19:26 The Role of Authenticity in Business22:11 Aligning Business Systems with Identity23:09 Leading from Design vs. Conditioning26:09 Understanding Mimetic Desire29:04 Identifying Your Gifts and Desires33:16 Navigating Success and Internal Pressure37:59 Balancing Needs and Wants in Life41:30 Embracing Shame and Permission to Want

Sep 9, 2025 • 48min
53. How Disney Creates Magic with Lou Mongello
In this engaging conversation, Jacob Karnes interviews Lou Mongello, a Disney expert and Hall of Fame podcaster, about his journey from being an attorney to creating a successful Disney podcast. They discuss the importance of community, customer experience, and storytelling in business, drawing parallels between Disney's approach and how small businesses can implement similar strategies. Lou shares insights on creating magical moments for customers, the significance of attention to detail, and the power of building genuine relationships. The episode concludes with practical tips for small business owners and Lou's favorite Disney experiences.Work with Lou: https://loumongello.comWDW Radio: https://www.wdwradio.com/Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 The Journey to Disney Podcasting04:11 Building a Community Around Disney07:05 The Magic of Disney Customer Experience09:32 Intentionality and Attention to Detail12:21 Empowering Employees for Exceptional Service15:00 Creating Unforgettable Customer Experiences17:54 The Importance of Consistency in Service20:24 Practical Tips for Small Business Owners24:34 Creating Magical Moments at Disney25:28 The Power of Storytelling in Branding27:53 The Importance of Customer Experience30:52 Building Community and Customer Loyalty33:31 The Role of Genuine Human Connection34:33 Memorable Disney Experiences and Guests40:25 The Impact of Disney on Personal Stories43:34 Key Takeaways for Business Leaders

Aug 26, 2025 • 30min
52. The Psychology of High Performance with Dr. Lani Jones
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews Dr. Lani Jones, a clinical psychologist turned business coach. They discuss the intersection of psychology and business leadership, emphasizing the importance of mental health in leadership roles. Dr. Jones shares her journey from a stable career in healthcare to coaching executives, focusing on the 'final 1%'—small adjustments that can lead to significant improvements in personal and professional life. The conversation also explores the importance of mission, vision, and values in guiding decision-making and finding agency in leadership.More on Dr. Lani Jones: https://drlanijones.com/start-hereGet Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Dr. Lanny Jones03:48 Transitioning from Psychology to Business Coaching07:04 The Final 1% Framework11:15 Finding Agency in Leadership17:10 Redefining Time and Decision Making21:03 Mission, Vision, and Values as Personal GPS24:50 Practical Steps for Clarity in Life

Aug 12, 2025 • 42min
51. Building Legendary Brands with Scott Wozniak
Scott Wozniak, a leadership consultant and author of "Make Your Brand Legendary," shares his unique journey from theater to business. He emphasizes the importance of clarity in leadership and cultivating raving fans to drive brand success. Scott discusses how operational excellence and team health can transform customer experiences. Drawing on insights from his time at Chick-fil-A, he offers practical strategies for fostering trust and collaboration within teams, crucial for building iconic, customer-loving brands.

Jul 29, 2025 • 39min
50. Unlocking Radical Self Ownership with Mandy Keene
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes hosts Mandy Keene, a seasoned coach with 26 years of experience. They delve into the concept of radical self-ownership and the importance of self-awareness in personal and professional growth. Mandy shares her journey into coaching, the significance of personality assessments like DISC and Enneagram, and how vulnerability plays a crucial role in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for curiosity and understanding one's blind spots to foster better relationships and success in business.More on Mandy: https://understand.meGet Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Mandy Keene02:23 Mandy's Journey into Coaching05:51 The Power of Assessments in Coaching06:52 First Job Experience and Early Lessons08:38 Understanding Personality Assessments13:34 Radical Self Ownership and Its Importance17:06 Embracing Vulnerability and Self-Ownership20:00 The Shadow Side of High Achievers24:11 Facing Blind Spots and Personal Growth28:33 The Power of Curiosity in Business34:06 Understanding Imposter Syndrome36:48 Final Thoughts on Curiosity and Self-Compassion

Jul 15, 2025 • 31min
49. The 5 Daily Habits That Grow You and Your Business with John Meyer
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews John T. Meyer, a former agency CEO turned business coach. They discuss the challenges of entrepreneurship, particularly the risk of burnout for creatives transitioning to solopreneurship. John shares his journey from running a successful agency to coaching others, emphasizing the importance of building a routine, understanding business growth through a three-legged stool model, and the necessity of creating content for sales. He also introduces five daily non-negotiables for solopreneurs and the solopreneur scorecard to track business metrics, ultimately encouraging collaboration and networking among entrepreneurs.Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.com00:00 John T. Meyer: From South Dakota to CEO04:12 The Journey of Entrepreneurship and Creative Agency Success07:04 Navigating Burnout: The Solopreneur's Challenge10:06 Sales Strategies for Creative Entrepreneurs13:00 Building a Sustainable Business: The Three-Legged Stool15:48 Daily Non-Negotiables for Success18:44 Connecting and Engaging: The Power of Content Creation21:33 The Solopreneur Scorecard: Metrics for Growth24:29 Leading Yourself and Your Business27:20 Finding Balance: The Importance of Routine30:06 Conclusion and Resources for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Jul 1, 2025 • 33min
48. The Importance of Personal Values in Business with Andrew Anderson
In this episode of the Waves Business Coaching Podcast, Jacob Karnes interviews Andrew L. Anderson, author of 'Strength of the Oak, Strength of the Willow.' They discuss the complexities of coaching, the challenges clients face, and the importance of understanding personal values and goals. The conversation delves into the myth of work-life balance, the significance of being a present parent, and the journey to finding one's life mission. Andrew shares insights from his coaching experience and emphasizes the importance of serving others as a path to self-discovery.Get Andrew’s Book: https://www.andrewlanderson.com/book/Get Jacob’s Book for Free: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.com/freeVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Andrew L. Anderson04:01 The Role of a Coach in Personal Development06:49 Understanding Common Client Issues09:19 Work-Life Balance: Myth or Reality?12:01 Defining What You Truly Want14:52 The Importance of Life Mission17:44 Live Coaching Session: Becoming a Present Dad23:00 Serving Others as a Path to Clarity28:35 Conclusion and Resources

Jun 17, 2025 • 38min
47. Why Community Is the Shortcut to Business Growth with Dustin Riechmann
Dustin Riechmann, an entrepreneur and marketing consultant, emphasizes the transformative power of community for business growth. He shares his journey from engineering to entrepreneurship and highlights the loneliness often faced by leaders. The discussion explores how to nurture communities, drawing inspiration from historical models like the Jesus model. Dustin provides practical tips for connecting with local groups and underscores the mental health benefits of networking, advocating that a strong community can enhance both personal and professional development.

Jun 3, 2025 • 33min
46. Crafting the Perfect One-Liner with Danielle Bornowski
Jacob Karnes hosts a live workshop with marketing strategist Danielle Bornowski, focusing on the importance of crafting effective one-liners for businesses. The conversation explores the formula for creating compelling one-liners, the significance of aligning problems with solutions, and the process of refining these statements to engage potential clients. Throughout the workshop, listeners gain insights into the art of storytelling in marketing and the necessity of making the message about the audience rather than the business itself.Supercharge Your Business with Glowing Reviews: https://dqbstrategies.marketing/reviewsGet Jacob’s Book: https://www.masteryourfirstjob.comVisit Our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comConnect with Jacob on Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacobkarnes/Subscribe to the Waves Business Coaching Podcast:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wavesbusinesscoachingSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3pbBD2zFZKsq588qJOh9QWApple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/waves-business-coaching/id1714852483Visit our Website: https://wavesbusinesscoaching.comChapters00:00 Introduction to Marketing Strategies04:14 The Importance of One-Liners07:07 Crafting Your One-Liner09:51 Understanding the Problem12:27 Aligning Solutions with Problems15:22 Testing and Iterating Your One-Liner17:50 Finalizing Your One-Liner20:28 Takeaways and Conclusion