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Launched in 2014, Smashing the Plateau shares weekly stories, strategies and ideas to help consultants, coaches and small business owners build success as entrepreneurs following long careers as high-achieving employees.
We believe you should be able to take control over your career destiny, do what you love, what you’re competent at doing, and get paid what you’re worth, consistently.
We are committed to the success of expertise-based businesses.
Ready to go even deeper?
The Smashing the Plateau Community uses a structured, supportive process to implement the kinds of strategies we discuss in this podcast. It is a community that is built to be a safe, caring place, where inclusive, direct, active and empowering conversations are welcome.
If you want to get your consulting, coaching or small business to grow, on your own terms, so that you can deliver great results to your ideal clients, while supporting the lifestyle you want, and you don’t want to do it alone, apply to become a member of the Smashing the Plateau Community.
Learn more at https://smashingtheplateau.com.
We believe you should be able to take control over your career destiny, do what you love, what you’re competent at doing, and get paid what you’re worth, consistently.
We are committed to the success of expertise-based businesses.
Ready to go even deeper?
The Smashing the Plateau Community uses a structured, supportive process to implement the kinds of strategies we discuss in this podcast. It is a community that is built to be a safe, caring place, where inclusive, direct, active and empowering conversations are welcome.
If you want to get your consulting, coaching or small business to grow, on your own terms, so that you can deliver great results to your ideal clients, while supporting the lifestyle you want, and you don’t want to do it alone, apply to become a member of the Smashing the Plateau Community.
Learn more at https://smashingtheplateau.com.
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Tim Ash is a recognized authority on evolutionary psychology, persuasion, and digital marketing. He is a sought-after international keynote speaker, executive advisor, and the bestselling author of several books, including Primal Dating, Unleash Your Primal Brain, and Landing Page Optimization.As the CEO and co-founder of a digital optimization agency, Tim helped create over $1.2 billion in value for leading companies.He has been cited by Forbes as a Top 10 Online Marketing Expert and by Entrepreneur Magazine as an Online Marketing Influencer to Watch.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how your closest relationships impact your business success and actionable strategies to build a strong support system as an entrepreneur.Tim and I discuss:Why your partner is the most significant influence in your entrepreneurial journey [00:00:00]The evolutionary psychology behind modern relationships [00:03:35]The myth of lifelong monogamy and its business implications [00:06:34]Why relationship challenges are often the biggest hurdles for entrepreneurs [00:05:09]How to structure your personal and business life for long-term success [00:09:41]The importance of explicit exit planning in both business and relationships [00:11:26]How division of labor at home mirrors successful business partnerships [00:14:00]What to do when your personal relationship is tenuous [00:14:44]Mindset adjustments for men and women to improve connections [00:16:23]Why community involvement matters and how gender differences play out in business groups [00:21:03]Key advice for women entrepreneurs and executives [00:23:32]Why reality-based relationship strategies lead to more happiness [00:25:17]Learn more about Tim at PrimalBrain.com and TimAsh.com.Thank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe now for concise, actionable insights from our podcast and launch your journey to lasting success with a single click!
Shandra is the CEO of The Transit Lounge, working with women who want to grow their service-based side businesses into profitable, thriving ventures in part-time hours.She’s an award-winning marketing director, professional results coach, Money Breakthrough coach, podcast host, and co-author of the international bestselling book, Elevate Your Success.Following a diagnosis of severe adrenal fatigue in 2014, Shandra became passionate about supporting women to be their own boss—so they can earn great money doing work they love, without burning out.She helps them achieve this through private coaching and her 30-day online course called Marketing Mojo.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, build confidence, and find the right community to support your business journey.Shandra and I discuss:Shandra’s journey from radio and corporate roles to entrepreneurship [02:19]How burnout led her to realign her work with her values [03:21]Why she chose to focus on service-based side businesses for women [04:42]The advantages of solo businesses versus partnerships [07:12]The most common challenges women face in building a business [10:07]Strategies to overcome client acquisition, time management, and self-doubt [12:17]The power of community and peer support for entrepreneurs [14:19]Trends in flexible work, side businesses, and multiple income streams [18:43]How Shandra invests in her own growth and support network [24:02]Where to connect with Shandra and access her resources [25:50]Learn more about Shandra at https://thetransitlounge.com/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock your business potential—subscribe now for members-only strategy insights and actionable tips from our experts. Success is just one click away!
David is the founder of Strategy Shift. He’s worked with more than 50 CEOs and hundreds of other C-suite executives to design bold strategies, supercharge their leadership, and transform their cultures in 20 countries. He’s a contributor to Harvard Business Review, MIT Sloan Management Review, and Strategy+Business, and a guest lecturer at London Business School. He is a former senior partner at Strategy&, PwC.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn actionable strategies for navigating major career transitions and aligning your work with your values and aspirations.David and I discuss:What prompted David to leave his senior partner role and start something new [01:48]The role of personal needs and values in career decisions [04:13]How to adopt a strategic approach to career pivots [04:56]The importance of building a supportive, challenging network [06:24]Why making small decisions can energize bigger changes [07:21]The value of not rushing your transition [08:15]How to navigate career strategy in times of chaos and complexity [10:38]Advice for consultants facing indecision and radio silence from clients [14:21]What CEOs and leaders really need from consultants today [16:24]How to tap into and nurture a community of thinking partners [20:19]Where to find David’s resources and get in touch [22:57]Learn more about David at:• Strategy Shift: https://strategyshift.co.uk/• Profile: https://strategyshift.co.uk/founder/• Newsletter: https://davidlancefield.com/newsletter/• Courses: https://strategyshift.co.uk/courses/• Writing: https://davidlancefield.com/writing/• Lancefield on the Line Podcast: https://davidlancefield.com/lancefield-on-the-line/• https://strategyshift.co.uk/media/Thank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe now to receive expert strategy tips—unlock your next level of success with every episode!
Jeffrey Hayzlett is a global business celebrity, primetime TV and podcast host, keynote speaker, and best-selling author. As Chairman and Founder of the C-Suite Network, he connects executives and entrepreneurs to foster business growth. A former Fortune 100 CMO, he is known for his bold, no-nonsense approach to leadership, marketing, and innovation. Hayzlett has appeared on major media outlets, sharing insights on scaling businesses and driving change. With decades of experience, he inspires leaders to think big, act bigger, and make a lasting impact.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to thrive as an entrepreneur during times of chaos and rapid change.Jeffrey and I discuss:Why resilience matters for business success [00:02:41]How to adapt and move forward during uncertainty [00:04:28]What causes indecision and how to overcome it [00:04:47]The importance of human connection and community [00:09:13]How technology and AI are changing communication [00:11:05]Ways to stay visible and deepen relationships [00:13:25]Why engagement is a top challenge for companies [00:16:00]Key ingredients for building a successful community [00:18:26]The path to becoming a recognized thought leader [00:20:04]The value of standing out—even if it means having haters [00:21:37]Learn more about Jeffrey at https://c-suitenetwork.com/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityTake the guesswork out of growth! Subscribe today and receive exclusive, easy-to-implement business strategies from leading podcast experts—success starts with one click.
Katie Wilson is the founder of Serious Moonlight Consulting, a sales and marketing leader helping tech and retail companies achieve sustainable growth. After leaving Big Tech—following 15 years at Google as Head of Sales—she has helped a variety of startups, companies, and individuals untangle and demystify their sales and marketing processes.She has been a featured speaker for @Google Talks, Wonder Women Tech, the Business Narrative Podcast, and Innovation Women. Her writing and expertise have been featured by THE BOARD and Fortune. She serves on the advisory boards of Wonder Women Tech and UCSB’s Women in Leadership. Katie is known for her unique blend of creative and analytical thinking, and she loves to teach people that sales is not a dirty word.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to clarify your consulting niche, leverage your experience, and make your business development both manageable and effective.Katie and I discuss:What prompted Katie to leave corporate and start her own consulting business [01:58]The surprises and challenges of managing time and business logistics [03:00]Why focusing on a single channel is critical at the start [03:55]How Katie leveraged her experience at Google for consulting success [06:18]The importance of narrowing your niche and developing clear offerings [08:00]Standardized vs. bespoke client work [10:00]How to educate clients on what they really need [11:00]Portraying your expertise and building trust in the sales process [13:00]Katie’s unique blend of creative and analytical skills [14:00]Essential elements for long-term client success [16:00]How Katie uses content and community for visibility and growth [19:00]The value and structure of consulting communities [22:00]One actionable step for corporate refugees considering entrepreneurship [24:00]Learn more about Katie at:https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiemotzwilsonhttps://www.seriousmoonlightconsulting.cohttps://www.instagram.com/seriousmoonlightconsultingThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityDon’t miss out! Get exclusive access to focused, expert-driven strategy tips—subscribe now and start taking confident action on your path to business growth!
Chuck Cooper is the President of WhiteWater Consulting, an HR advisory firm that helps small and midsize businesses maximize their people potential. A Certified Exit Planning Advisor (CEPA) and author of the best-selling book The Family Business Blueprint, Chuck guides owners through succession planning, leadership transitions, and legacy building. With a passion for aligning people strategies with business goals, Chuck brings a unique blend of insight, empathy, and practical experience to every conversation—making complex transitions feel both possible and purposeful.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about succession planning, legacy building, and the emotional transitions that come with running and eventually letting go of a business.Chuck and I discuss:The backstory to WhiteWater Consulting [01:58]Lessons from real-life experience and its impact on consulting [04:48]The importance of being coachable and agile [05:58]Navigating client relationships and defining your ideal prospect [06:36]The power of saying no to non-ideal clients [08:17]Why succession planning is often avoided and why it matters [09:00]How identity and daily activity can delay necessary business transitions [10:41]Getting clear on goals for business transition [12:35]Critical steps in succession planning [14:20]The role of peer groups in navigating succession [15:08]Major career mistakes and recovery through community and mentorship [16:29]The value of a personal board of directors and going deep with community [20:11]Advice for corporate refugees starting their own business [22:00]Why self-awareness and emotional intelligence are crucial for entrepreneurship [22:17]Learn more about Chuck at:https://whitewaterconsulting.nethttps://chuckcooper.infohttps://www.linkedin.com/in/chuck-cooper1Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock practical strategies and actionable insights from our experts—join our community and transform your journey to business success today!
David Shriner-Cahn’s weekly advice program has been named by Forbes as a Podcast To Power Up Your Ultra-Lean Business. David has also been recognized as an Entrepreneur That Will Change The Way You Communicate by Inc. Magazine. He is the podcast host and community builder behind Smashing the Plateau, an online platform offering resources, accountability, and camaraderie to high-performing professionals who are making the leap from the corporate career track to entrepreneurial business ownership.Starting your own business is hard enough without having to go it alone. Smashing The Plateau is David’s solution to the problems that keep entrepreneurs up at night. As he likes to say, “With the help of people just like you in our community, you’ll be able to do more of what you love and get paid what you’re worth.”In today’s milestone episode of Smashing the Plateau, David celebrates 800 episodes by sharing the most powerful insights, memorable stories, and actionable advice from inspiring entrepreneurs who have transitioned from corporate careers to building businesses they love.David discusses:Overcoming fear and uncertainty when leaving a secure job [01:00]Rebuilding your professional network and leveraging old connections [02:00]Specializing and finding your niche for business growth [03:08]Pricing your services and charging what you’re worth [04:00]Maintaining self-accountability to stay focused and motivated [05:02]Avoiding burnout and integrating work and life for creativity [06:00]Building authentic sales and marketing relationships [07:00]Leveraging community for support and solutions [08:00]Embracing continuous learning and asking for help to break through plateaus [09:00]Taking imperfect action and starting before you’re ready [09:59]A heartfelt thank you and inspiration for the future [10:23]Learn more about David and Smashing the Plateau at https://smashingtheplateau.com/ and connect with him on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidshrinercahn/.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityUnlock exclusive guidance from top entrepreneurs and experts—subscribe now and get the strategies and support you need to move your business forward with confidence!
Jerry is a rusted business advisor and mentor to small businesses, with over 60 years of experience as a corporate executive and entrepreneur. Co-founded six businesses with a primary emphasis on industrial products and services, and with both domestic and international experience. Has served on multiple outside boards in both for-profit and non-profit entities.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to overcome the loneliness of solopreneurship, foster trust and respect in a peer community, and adapt to rapid change as a business owner.Jerry and I discuss:Why solopreneurs need support and community [00:02:08]The challenges of loneliness after leaving corporate life [00:03:16]How to build trust and respect in peer groups [00:05:07]The importance of group dynamics and fit [00:08:14]How solopreneurs can adapt to rapid change [00:11:00]The difference between noise and trends [00:14:00]The balancing act between focus, distraction, and life [00:15:58]Stories of solopreneurs navigating challenges [00:17:19]The role of luck and hard work in business success [00:21:33]Learn more about Jerry Weinstein at www.NewYorkCity.score.orgThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySign up now to receive expert strategy tips distilled from our podcast—unlock your path to business mastery with every episode.
“The problem I see is that "sales" has become a word that both businesses and individuals shy away from. Why? Because it has become disconnected from a deep understanding of the value relationship between businesses and their customers. My mission is to help people bridge that gap—to demystify what sales really is, so that everyone can improve their sales performance and success.If you’ve ever thought that good sales figures are the result of some secret sales magic, let me start showing you otherwise”.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to overcome your fear of sales, build genuine client relationships, and design a sales process that fits your style and business.Frances and I discuss:The real meaning of sales and how to reframe your mindset [02:11]Lessons from Frances’s diverse career in hospitality, IT, and consulting [02:49]Why industry knowledge isn’t as important as people skills [05:15]The importance of being yourself—and getting over yourself—in sales [06:31]How to recognize and break negative sales mindsets [10:48]Demystifying sales by focusing on the client’s buying journey [14:07]How to map your sales process to your best clients [17:36]Building resilience and learning from failure [20:20]The role of community in developing your value proposition [21:31]Finding like-minded collaborators to support your clients [23:11]Where to find more of Frances’s resources and expertise [24:12]Learn more about Frances at https://www.metisan.com.au and her book: moresaleslessmarketing.comThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityJoin now to unlock exclusive, actionable strategies from our experts—your journey to business success starts here!
Karl is a certified Executive Coach, Leadership, Team, and Organization Development Consultant, and international speaker with over 25 years of corporate experience. He holds a PhD in Organizational Psychology and has authored three books: The How and Why: Taking Care of Business with the Enneagram (now in its third edition), Nina and the Really, Really Tough Decision (available in English, Spanish, French, and Greek), and Explicit Expectations: The Essential Guide & Toolkit of Management Fundamentals.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to successfully transition from corporate life to a thriving solopreneur career and the vital role of relationships and community in long-term business growth.R. Karl and I discuss:Why he left a successful corporate career to become a solopreneur [00:02:04]The biggest surprises after leaving employment [00:04:20]How he created structure and flexibility as a solopreneur [00:06:01]The importance of leveraging your network [00:09:48]Work-life integration vs. work-life balance [00:11:00]How social and volunteer activities can lead to business opportunities [00:11:36]When companies seek external consultants and coaches [00:15:04]Trends in leadership development and organizational consulting demand [00:16:48]Practical strategies for successful client engagements [00:18:31]How communities of practice support entrepreneurs [00:19:40]The most important step a corporate refugee can take today [00:21:34]Why you can’t do it alone—and the power of asking for help [00:22:11]Learn more about R. Karl at:www.performandfunction.comhttps://linkedin.com/in/rkarlhebenstreitThe How and Why: Taking Care of Business with the Enneagram: https://a.co/d/afDU79rNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, English version: https://a.co/d/jgt0uxrNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, Spanish version: https://a.co/d/fnRvn9oNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, French version: https://a.co/d/068uRvGvNina and the Really, Really Tough Decision, Greek version: https://shop.ingramspark.com/b/084?Np4TNouttaDLgprAMd5jNl7hC1DjYrBMeWmJc4jIJYlThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe to receive powerful, easy-to-apply insights from our podcast—empowering your business journey has never been easier.
Porschia Parker-Griffin has coached hundreds of executives and professionals to accomplish their goals. She has experience as a director and business consultant in the financial industry, helping companies unlock millions of dollars in potential hidden within their organizations.Porschia earned her master’s in Industrial and Organizational Psychology and holds a B.S. in Psychology from the University of Georgia. She served as an Associate Training Coach for the Institute for Professional Excellence in Coaching and is recognized as a Career Expert and Top Voice by LinkedIn. Porschia also hosts the Career 101 Podcast.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to respond to volatility, uncertainty, and change in the workplace—and how to turn setbacks into new opportunities.Porschia and I discuss:How VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) is affecting organizations and individuals [02:17]What professionals and consultants can do to make progress in challenging times [06:25]Where to look for new opportunities in today’s business landscape [08:22]How AI and technology are shaping new career paths [08:45]The essential role of communication and consistency for consultants [15:12]Why planning (not “winging it”) is critical for new entrepreneurs [16:39]How Porschia’s Brave Bird Career Alliance helps professionals succeed [18:20]A success story of transitioning from employment to entrepreneurship [20:24]Tips for diversifying your offerings to meet client needs [22:03]Learn more about Porschia at:https://www.linkedin.com/company/64512733https://www.youtube.com/@flyhighcoaching382https://www.facebook.com/FlyHighCoachingThank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe now for actionable insights and proven strategies from our podcast guests—your journey to entrepreneurial mastery begins here.
Ahsan Karim is the founder of Momentum Club, a micro-coaching community that helps professionals and entrepreneurs take consistent action with clarity and peace of mind. He is also the founder of Light Vision Group, a digital strategy and consulting agency that supports purpose-driven businesses and nonprofits with operations, finance, and digital growth. With over two decades of experience spanning corporate IT, education, nonprofit leadership, and digital marketing, Ahsan blends real-world strategy with daily accountability. Through daily emails, premium coaching, and practical tools, he helps high performers stay focused, execute with intention, and grow sustainably.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to step out of a stable corporate identity and build momentum as an entrepreneur, using daily habits, accountability, and community support.Ahsan and I discuss:What sparked Ahsan’s move from corporate to entrepreneurship [02:15]The influence of family background on his entrepreneurial path [03:26]Why he chose digital marketing and how he learned the ropes [04:07]How Ahsan reinvented himself and the importance of ongoing learning [05:26]The challenges of finding structured support outside of corporate life [07:04]How community and accountability shaped his business decisions [09:24]The decision to niche down and its impact on his consulting business [10:23]What inspired the creation of Momentum Club [11:40]Daily actions that help Ahsan stay focused and effective [15:14]The value of celebrating small wins and maintaining perspective [18:51]Key advice for professionals transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship [20:05]The role of community in building and sustaining momentum [22:03]Learn more about Ahsan at https://substack.com/@momentumcThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityTake the guesswork out of growth—sign up for concise, expert-driven strategies designed to help you navigate your entrepreneurial path with confidence.
Sally A. Curtis, founder of the award-winning Monetise Your Content, helps legacy-focused leaders become easy to consume and inevitable to buy from. Best known for turning books into two years’ worth of bite-sized content that extends their brand essence, she creates reusable assets that amplify visibility, build authority, and deepen audience connection.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you’ll learn creative strategies to turn your expertise into a thriving content engine that extends your influence and drives business growth.Sally and I discuss:How Sally’s career evolved from business development to content repurposing [01:28]The serendipitous moments that led to her business niche [02:06]The process of turning books and videos into hundreds of content assets [03:32]Why listening to others and adapting is key to uncovering your strengths [05:59]How to reverse-engineer your content from your sales goals [07:35]Using a book’s structure to create a strategic content plan [08:36]Building a sustainable and consistent content rhythm [10:24]Mapping content themes and types to your business and sales cycles [12:26]Differences in content strategy for individuals vs. corporations [15:52]How to tailor messaging for multiple decision-makers in corporate sales [17:19]Using community and networking for business growth [20:14]Learn more about Sally at https://sallyacurtis.biz/content-monetization-catalyst-pageThank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySubscribe for direct access to practical strategies and expert guidance—empowering you to build your success story, one step at a time.
Thomas Bertels is a business transformation expert on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has three decades of experience helping companies—from start-ups to Fortune 5—transform how work gets done.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to overcome an identity shift when leaving a long corporate career and build a business that delivers lasting results for yourself and your clients.Thomas and I discuss:Why leaving a decades-long career can feel like an identity crisis [01:43]The most important mindset shift when going solo [02:48]How to create routines and structure for success [03:28]Managing expectations and accepting imperfection [04:08]The power of narrowing your niche and building a signature framework [07:09]How Thomas helps leaders and teams boost productivity [10:22]Where opportunities and resistance show up in organizational change [14:03]The importance of community—whether you’re solo or part of a team [18:59]Practical examples of harnessing team energy for solutions [20:10]Learn more about Thomas at https://linktr.ee/purposeworksThank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityJoin now to receive actionable insights and expert strategies from our podcast—your next step toward business success is just a click away.
Bob Goodwin is the President of Career Club, dedicated to helping organizations and professionals unlock their full potential. As a LinkedIn Top Voice and a member of the Harvard Business Review Advisory Council, he is a recognized expert in career development, leadership, and organizational performance. Bob hosts The Work Wire with SHRM CEO Johnny C. Taylor, Jr., as well as Career Club Live, where he interviews Fortune 500 executives. As an executive coach, he helps senior leaders enhance performance, increase leadership impact, and gain career clarity—transforming cultures and driving lasting success.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate economic and political chaos, build resilience, and future-proof your business or career.Bob and I discuss:How chaos and indecision impact consultants and professionals [02:20]Why building a robust business pipeline is essential [03:21]The difference between qualitative and quantitative value [04:40]How to communicate your value to decision-makers [05:53]What employers are doing in times of uncertainty [08:05]Strategies for thriving during volatility and ambiguity [11:16]Investing in the future and smart marketing strategies [13:00]Building corporate and personal resilience [15:16]The role of community in fostering innovation and support [21:09]Learn more about Bob at https://career.club/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/bobgoodwincareerclub/Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySign up now for exclusive, actionable strategy insights from our podcast—your path to success starts with just one click!
Matt is a lifelong entrepreneur, a software developer since age seven, and the founder of over 30 startups. A world traveler who has visited more than 70 countries, he hosted and produced “Places to Go” for Amazon Prime. He holds a commercial pilot’s license, a real estate broker’s license, and is a musician with over 30 published songs. A GIA-certified gemologist, black belt in Karate and Aikido, scuba diver, and photographer, Matt is a U.S. expat splitting his time between Colombia and Switzerland. He’s also a proud father to a pilot and a firefighter.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn what it really takes to transition from employee to entrepreneur, navigate ups and downs in business, and create lasting client loyalty.Matt and I discuss:Lessons from early work experiences and rapid advancement [00:01:46]The difference between employee and entrepreneur mindsets [00:04:01]How setting and evolving goals drives success [00:04:55]Navigating ups and downs, from the 2008 crisis to COVID [00:05:44]Adapting business models and finding new income streams [00:06:17]The power of treating clients with genuine care [00:08:29]Building loyalty and relationships that endure transitions [00:10:09]Standing out by offering a “concierge” approach [00:19:29]How to leverage community, stay lean, and find support [00:16:22]Learn more about Matt at https://theamericano.comThank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet ahead faster: subscribe now for handpicked business tips and proven strategies straight from our podcast guests.
Prosper Taruvinga is the founder of Live Long Digital, where he helps coaches and consultants scale from six to seven figures with ease and flow. A Zimbabwean-born entrepreneur based in Australia, Prosper blends digital strategy with heart, helping experts stop relying on algorithms and build profitable, enjoyable businesses they love.In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to embrace unexpected opportunities, the importance of owning your media, and how building the right community can transform your business success.Prosper and I discuss:Prosper’s journey from Zimbabwe to Australia and into digital marketing [00:01:54]The role of mentorship and models in shaping career paths [00:05:02]How Prosper turned being fired into a business opportunity [00:04:01]Navigating economic uncertainty and adaptability [00:05:53]Why owning your media is crucial for entrepreneurs [00:10:12]The tools and platforms Prosper uses to grow his business [00:12:41]Why he transitioned from working with restaurants to coaches and consultants [00:15:04]The biggest mistakes coaches and consultants make—and how to fix them [00:17:50]How to clarify your message and identify your target market [00:18:58]The transformative power of community in business and life [00:21:36]Prosper’s thoughts on collaboration and leveraging collective strengths [00:22:00]Learn more about Prosper at https://onlineprosperity.com.au/Thank you to Our Sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityGet ahead with exclusive, easy-to-apply insights from our podcast—subscribe now and make mastering success a part of your routine.
Wagner Denuzzo is the author of Leading to Succeed, a book on essential skills for the new workplace. He is currently a consultant and coach at his own firm. Previously, he served as the VP and Global Head of Leadership Development at IBM, as well as the VP and Head of Capabilities for the Future of Work at Prudential Financial.He is a seasoned leader in organizational development, human capital strategy, and leadership transformation, with over two decades of experience across global enterprises, consulting firms, and startups.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to effectively transition from corporate roles to entrepreneurship and the importance of collaboration in achieving success.Wagner and I discuss:Wagner's journey from humble beginnings in Brazil to a successful corporate career [02:16]The pivotal moment that led Wagner to become an entrepreneur [04:41]The role of community in organizational success [07:13]How to leverage personal experiences for professional growth [10:04]The significance of listening in consulting engagements [13:14]The importance of shared leadership and collective purpose [20:12]Strategies for overcoming imposter syndrome as an entrepreneur [22:48]Insights on building effective teams through the lens of quantum physics [25:10]Learn more about Wagner at https://a.co/d/azLLRXK.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunitySign up now to gain exclusive access to handpicked, succinct strategy insights from our podcast guests – your journey to success is just a click away!
Nathan Tanner is an executive coach who helps CEOs, founders, and high-impact leaders scale themselves and their companies. He's coached leaders from companies including Electronic Arts, EA, LinkedIn, Lyft, and Google. Prior to becoming a full-time coach, he held several HR executive roles, including leading the HR team at DoorDash.Nathan has served as an advisor at Y Combinator and has written for Forbes, Inc., and Fast Company. He's an IRONMAN triathlete, holds an MBA from BYU, and lives with his wife and their four children in southern Utah.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate career transitions and build meaningful relationships that enhance your leadership journey.Nathan and I discuss:The unexpected path of Nathan's career journey [01:48]Insights on pursuing a career in finance and HR [03:27]The importance of finding your passion [05:24]How to identify the right business model for your skills [08:00]The distinction between the external and internal aspects of leadership [10:14]Why trust is essential in coaching relationships [12:46]Techniques for building connections with decision-makers [15:07]The role of community in personal and professional growth [18:48]Learn more about Nathan at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CVJWJR3H?ref_=pe_93986420_775043100 and https://nathantanner.substack.com/Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityJoin us now for exclusive entry to carefully selected, brief strategy tips from our podcast– mastering your journey to success is only one click away!
Dorie Clark has been named three times as one of the Top 50 business thinkers in the world by Thinkers50. She is a keynote speaker and teaches executive education at Columbia Business School. She is also the Wall Street Journal bestselling author of The Long Game, Entrepreneurial You, Reinventing You, and Stand Out, which was named the #1 Leadership Book of the Year by Inc. magazine. A former presidential campaign spokeswoman, she writes frequently for the Harvard Business Review. Learn more at dorieclark.com.In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the challenges of moving from a corporate environment to building your own business.Dorie and I discuss:The top tactical challenge for transitioning professionals [02:20]The emotional hurdles of leaving a corporate job [04:15]Strategies for effective business development [06:27]The importance of community during your transition [07:25]How to market yourself as an expert [10:32]The role of content creation in establishing credibility [18:36]The significance of social proof in building your reputation [19:16]Dorie’s recommended resources for aspiring entrepreneurs [27:16]Learn more about Dorie at https://www.dorieclark.com/subscribe.Thank you to our sponsor:The Smashing the Plateau CommunityBecome a member now to gain exclusive access to carefully selected, practical strategy tips from our podcast guests—unlocking your path to success is only a click away!
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