The Ramblings

In this episode of The Ramblings, we interview Lauren Anderson, the visionary behind Possible Futures, a unique space that combines the aspects of a hangout spot, library, and bookstore. Lauren shares her journey from dreaming about creating a community space filled with books to the realization of Possible Futures. She talks about the importance of creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for local youth, highlighting their desire for reading and community belonging. Our discussion also covers the challenges and joys of running such a space, the significance of choosing books that represent diverse voices, and the impact of creating a culture of trust and respect with the local children. Lauren further emphasizes the importance of being deeply connected and invested in one's community, the transformative power of books, and the cultural events and book clubs hosted by Possible Futures to engage and uplift the local community. Follow Possible Future on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/possiblefuturesbooks Follow Angelo Roberts: https://www.flow.page/angelorobertsjr Visit https://www.offsource.tech to get started with your virtual support today! ---- 00:00 Dreaming of a Community Space: The Genesis of a Unique Idea 01:25 The Birth of a Book Space: From Concept to Reality 03:02 Introducing Lauren Anderson: The Visionary Behind Possible Futures 04:16 Defining a Book Space: More Than Just a Library or Bookstore 07:33 The Journey to Ownership: From Educator to Entrepreneur 14:52 Creating a Community Hub: The Evolution of Possible Futures 26:42 Future Plans and Sustainability: Navigating the Challenges Ahead 27:25 Sustainable Business and Community Impact 27:49 Launching Free Libraries: A Community Initiative 29:01 Mission and Vision: Spreading Book Joy 31:10 Engaging the Youth: Building a Safe and Inclusive Space 41:46 Challenges and Strategies in Education 49:02 Cultivating a Positive Work Culture 56:24 Upcoming Events and Book Recommendations --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

#184 | Becoming an Entrepreneur, Growing a Community Online, Consistency is the Key to Success - From Laid-Off Hotel Manager to Successful Online Entrepreneur: Alex Hitt's Journey This episode features Alex Hitt, a hotel manager turned successful online entrepreneur following his unexpected layoff due to COVID-19. Alex shares his inspiring journey from managing hotels across the globe to leveraging the power of social media and affiliate marketing to create a sustainable online business. He discusses his ventures, like the MAX3R community, an online network for entrepreneurs, and offers practical advice on online business strategies, including the power of consistency in social media content creation and the importance of modeling successful strategies before inventing your own. Alex then deep dives into the need for massive action and resilience in the, providing his step-by-step plan to success that includes over 50 videos per day! Our conversation also touches upon practical tips for starting and scaling an online business, the balance between offering free value and monetizing, and Hitt's personal views on authenticity and business luck. __________ Join Alex Hitt's MAX3R community by visiting: https://www.alexhitt.com/ or https://max3r.com/invitation?code=332EGJ Connect or follow Alex on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexhittMAX3R Community Members get a FREE 7-Day Trial to https://flow.page/offsource-max3r Follow Angelo Roberts: https://www.flow.page/angelorobertsjr Visit https://www.offsource.tech to get started with your virtual support today! _________ 00:00 Introduction: From Hotel Manager to Entrepreneur 00:21 The Ramblings: A Startup Journey 02:10 Meet Alex Hitt: The Digital Nomad 02:52 The Unexpected Entrepreneurial Journey 04:46 The Power of Social Media in Business 06:53 The Transition to Real Estate and Entrepreneurship 08:41 The Evolution of Online Business1 2:29 The Power of Consistency and Massive Action 14:35 The Shift to Affiliate Marketing 17:56 The Entrepreneurial Dream: Time, Financial, and Location Freedom 21:30 The Future of Online Business30:33 The Ease of Starting an Online Business30:53 Advice for Young Entrepreneurs 31:10 The Importance of Productizing and Understanding Your Audience 31:51 The Journey of Starting a Business with TikTok32:02 The Power of Taking Massive Action 32:15 The Importance of Charging More and Balancing Your Nine to Five 33:43 The Value of Affiliate Offers and Passive Income 35:11 The Technicalities of Creating Content 35:58 The Art of Storytelling in Social Media38:58 The Power of Consistency and Authenticity in Social Media 42:46 The Role of Luck and Persistence in Business 45:46 The Importance of Learning from Others 51:31 The Impact of Reality TV on Entrepreneurship 54:02 The Power of Patience and Persistence 57:28 The Maxer Community: A Resource for Entrepreneurs --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of 'The Ramblings,' I sit down with Scott Kallick, a seasoned Angel Investor and Business Advisor with decades of experience. We dive into the startup arena and discuss the challenges startups face, the importance of creating business cultures, thoughts on the role of AI in business, among many other conversations. Scott also shares his business journey; from owning a laundry operation business to investing in startups and his current involvement in helping companies in the million to 15 million space accelerate their profit. Scott highlights the invaluable role of 'gritty businesses' against the backdrop of today's fast-paced technology-driven commercial landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Reflections on Startup Funding 00:38 Welcome to The Ramblings and Sponsor Introduction 01:23 Guest Introduction: Scott Kallick, Angel Investor and Business Advisor 02:04 Scott's Journey: From Profit Acceleration Specialist to Entrepreneur 02:31 Scott's Personal Background and Entrepreneurial Journey 03:54 Scott's Experience in the Coin Laundry Business 04:41 The Decision to Sell the Company and Experience in Corporate Life 05:55 Scott's Transition to Coaching and Working with Startups 07:55 Scott's Approach to Business Growth and Success 08:14 The Importance of Investing in Employees and Building a Strong Culture 13:14 The Challenges and Opportunities in the Startup Landscape 19:42 Scott's Vision for His Future Work 21:07 Scott's Perspective on AI and Virtual Reality in Business 25:07 The Potential of Trades and Small Businesses 31:54 Conclusion and Contact Information --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

#182 | Taking on Uber & Lyft: The Tech Entrepreneur and Founder Behind HerRide In this episode, I get to talk with Jillian Anderson, the founder and CEO & CTO of HerRide, a women-targeted rideshare app. Jillian talks about how she plans on beating out industry titans like Uber and Lyft; and even has partnered with the Atlanta International Airport. She breaks down her goals for HerRide, her love for numbers, her competitive nature, and her focus on creating a service that benefits both the riders and drivers. Anderson reflects on the challenges she encountered, celebrating milestones like gaining entry into Atlanta airport's ride services, and her plans for the future expansion of her business. Book Your Next Ride with HERide: https://www.heride.com/ Follow Jillian Anderson: https://twitter.com/jillbgates Free Trial for Off/Source: https://www.offsource.tech/pricing Follow Angelo Roberts https://twitter.com/AngeloRobertsJr https://Flowpage.com/angelorobertsjr 00:00 Introduction to the Video 00:00 Discussing Lyft's New Feature 00:41 The Impact of Lyft's Feature on the Market 02:01 Introduction to the Host and Guest 02:07 Jillian Anderson's Journey to Founding HerRide 02:28 The Genesis of HerRide 02:38 Jillian's Basketball Career and Transition into Tech 03:46 The Birth of HerRide 04:41 The Challenges and Opportunities in the Rideshare Industry 06:09 The Journey from Idea to Launch of HerRide 07:31 The Impact of Going Viral and Growth of HerRide 08:11 The Process of Getting into the Airport Rideshare Market 11:55 The Challenges and Strategies in Marketing HerRide 13:37 Jillian's Personal Journey and Motivation 23:18 The Metrics and Community Building of HerRide 27:48 Safety Features and Future Plans for HerRide 29:05 Expansion Plans: New Cities on the Radar 30:25 Why Not LA? The Challenges of Saturated Markets 30:32 The Cost of Rideshare Permits: A Barrier to Entry 31:17 Competing with Giants: The Lyft Challenge 31:39 Surviving the Storm: Dealing with Idea Theft 34:11 The Art of Conversion: Winning Over Drivers 34:42 The Initial Reaction to Lyft's Move 35:25 The Acquisition Question: Would You Sell? 38:30 The Future of HerRide: Goals for 2024 39:28 The Work-Life Balance: Self-Care and Relaxation 41:56 The Math Behind the Business: Analytical Thinking 47:54 The Driver's Perspective: Pay and Expectations 52:38 The Billion Dollar Conversation: Preparing for Acquisition Talks 54:44 Staying in Your Lane: Building a Loyal Community 55:31 Connecting with HerRide: Social Media and Sign Up --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

Episode #181 | Today I get to sit down with the founder of Crafted Studios, a design company based in Los Angeles, Dexter Washington. Dexter has a truly groundbreaking story that is basically the representation of the college dream. After dropping out of high school and growing up in challenging circumstances, Dexter shares how he turned adversity into opportunity, by tirelessly working on his UI/UX craft to eventually build his own successful six-figure business. He candidly discusses his strategies used to network, establish partnerships, and land some major clients. Dexter shares his insights on prioritizing work-life balance over chasing the millionaire dream and how staying connected to his roots keeps him grounded. Learn what drives his creative process, his views on education, and his strategy for turning darkness into light in this another great episode of #theramblings Free Trial for Off/Source: https://www.offsource.tech/pricing Follow Angelo Roberts: https://Flowpage.com/angelorobertsjr Dexter Washington: https://twitter.com/dexterwjr Crafted Studios: https://www.craftedstudios.co/ 00:00 Introduction and Webflow vs Framer Discussion 00:46 Welcome to The Ramblings Podcast 00:52 Guest Introduction: Dexter Washington, CEO of Crafted Studios 01:28 Dexter's Journey to Establishing Crafted Studios 02:13 Dexter's Impressive Client Portfolio 02:34 The Art of Forming Partnerships and Landing Big Clients 03:04 The Power of Leverage and the Role of Webflow 04:55 The Importance of SEO and Exposure in Landing Clients 06:35 The Role of Partnerships in Scaling a Business 08:16 Balancing Full-Time Work and Running a Six-Figure Company 10:39 The Shift from Millionaire Aspirations to Contentment 12:47 The Journey to Finding True Aspirations 23:38 The Decision to Scale a UI/UX Company over Photography 26:09 Landing the First 5K Client and Scaling the Business28:26 Discovering a Niche Market on Social Media 28:43 Reaching Out and Offering Value 29:00 Forming Strategic Partnerships 29:26 The Power of Connections and Networking 30:04 Passion for Cars: A Personal Journey 31:15 The Influence of Family and Culture 31:35 The Intersection of Creativity and Technology 32:04 Comparing Favorite Cars and Design Tools 36:14 The Challenges and Triumphs of Entrepreneurship 49:03 The Journey from High School Dropout to Successful Entrepreneur 52:47 The Importance of Boundaries and Self-Care 54:08 Reflecting on Personal Growth and Achievements 55:05 Looking Ahead: Future Plans and Aspirations --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

Today's episode of #TheRamblingsPod features AJ Picard, founder of OneTap - the newest and probably number 1 app for content creators and entrepreneurs. He shares his insights into growth strategies, tapping into the importance of daily active users, user experience, and building in public. As the founder of OneTap, AJ takes us through the functionality and developmental process of the app, demonstrating how it works and how it outpaces competitors by offering an all-in-one solution. We also get into AJ's move to Albania, his focus on keeping a lean operation, and his future plans for both OneTap. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:26 Meet the Guest: AJ Picard, Founder of OneTap 00:55 Deep Dive into OneTap: The Idea and Journey 01:59 The Android vs Apple Debate 03:45 Overcoming Technical Challenges in OneTap 04:29 Building in Public and Customer Feedback 04:50 Marketing Strategies and Finding Product-Market Fit0 7:35 The Future of OneTap: New Features and Plans 12:34 The Journey to Albania and Building from Anywhere1 3:51 The Business Side of OneTap: Revenue and Profitability 16:22 The Team Behind OneTap and Equity Discussions 21:34 Beyond OneTap: New Projects and Ventures 23:59 The Power of Customization 24:15 The Limitations of Current Web Design Tools 24:39 Introducing Stack Frame: A New Approach to Web Design 25:31 Demonstrating the Power of Stack Frame 29:48 The Potential of Stack Frame and OneTab 30:45 The Future of OneTab and Potential Acquisition 33:31 The Journey of the Podcast Host 39:32 The Importance of Daily Active Users 43:48 The Role of UI and UX in User Retention 44:45 The Power of Data Tracking in User Experience 46:06 Closing Thoughts --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

Episode #179 | In this collab episode of The Ramblings, I sit down with Tony Restell of Social-Hire to talk about the benefits of using a virtual assistant and what it means to have or use fractional resources. 00:00 Introduction 01:02 Meet the Guest: Angelo Roberts Jr. 01:29 Advantages of Using Virtual Assistants 03:14 Pitfalls to Avoid When Hiring Virtual Assistants 04:40 The Importance of Time Management 05:09 Creating Effective Business Processes 07:38 How to Implement Processes in an Existing Team 08:42 Conclusion and Contact Information Follow Angelo on Social Media: https://www.flow.page/angelorobertsjr Get Your Free Trial for Off/Source: https://www.offsource.tech/pricing --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In today's episode of #TheRamblingsPod, I deep dive into a fascinating chat with Jacob Ennis. We're exploring Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) and how they're shaking up education, gaming, work, and marketing. We'll unpack different VR/AR gear, cool tech software, and Jacob's journey from teaching to a gig in software and sales at The Center of Simulation and Innovation. Plus, Jacob shares his personal VR adventures, and favorite games, and even touches on something called Gaussian splatting and what it's about. In our second VR episode in a short time, we lean into how VR is changing the game in various industries and its potential to revamp how we work and learn. If you're curious about tech or where VR and AR are headed, this chat is a must-listen. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, We welcome special guest Frances Odera Matthews, founder of The Notion Bar and a certified Notion consultant. Frances talks about her journey from using Notion as a tool to manage UX agency projects to becoming a sought-after Notion consultant helping businesses streamline their processes. She also provides practical tips on using Notion AI and navigating the platform's features. We also get an inside look into her popular newsletter, The Notion Zeitgeist, reflecting her unique blend of tech-savvy and cultural insight (as she refers to it as being "third-cultural") This episode is a must-watch for anyone interested in mastering Notion for personal or business use. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In Episode #176 of #TheRamblingsPod, I talk about how important outsourcing and using virtual assistants, especially in 2024 is going SAVE YOUR ORGANIZATION. I give my thoughts on the difficulties of hiring, and understanding the costs, benefits, and complexities of hiring employees, vs outsourcing. You will understand each level of virtual assistant outsourcing from basic internet VAs that your gurus push, to the high-level premium VA firms. I also share how at Off/Source we utilize 'fractional employee time' to provide one-stop-shop virtual services at one low monthly cost. Your main takeaways should be: - How you can increase your productivity - Why you should be outsourcing in 2024 - Upgrading your tech stack --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In Today’s episode of #TheRamblingsPod, we have Stan Peek of FSQ Consulting who is a TOP 1% coach being nominated for the Inc Magazine's Power Partner Award winners for 2023. Our discussion delves into the core principles and practices of great coaching, exploring Stan's rich background in sports and entrepreneurship before entering the coaching field. The two discuss the importance of lived experience, professional certification, and the right motivation to become an effective coach. Stan also addresses topical issues such as work-life balance, the dangers of being all about 'success' rather than 'fulfillment', and ways to identify and avoid ill-qualified coaches. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, we have one of our first guests from Twitter in an extremely long time - Jose Santiago of Reboot Imagine, an XR consulting and IT company based in Miami FL. In our conversation we dive into the world of building startups, working for free, and how he got into virtual reality. In one of the best episodes we have recorded all year - Jose Santiago breaks down the different terms and jargon used in the XR community and exactly what differentiates each company's actions and point of focus. At some point during the converation with Jose, we hone in on how important passion is and that if you take nothing else from this episode Your startup's moat can be PASSION! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

Today, I get to sit down with esteemed entrepreneur Carla Cherry, who previously held roles at companies like MTV, and Comedy Central and has had the opportunity to work with legends like Larry King. She is the creator of the Power Offer Method, and I got the chance to learn a lot from her story and what separates her as a coach. The biggest lesson I want you to take away from this episode is that the "how" of crafting your story is extremely important, and creating a valuable offer is something that takes serious skill. Carla's organization helps you do just that, create a unique offer that converts! To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts To Learn More About Carla Chery and creating your Power Offer use the details below. Click Here to Follow Carla on Linkedin Click Here to Learn More About the Accelerator Cohort --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

Stephanie Katz is the owner of CETA Beneficiary Group, an HR and employee benefits organization that helps business owners ranging from their first employees to companies with 10,000+ employees. Stephanie has previously held positions at 2 different top 8 accounting firms and ADP Benefits and with over 30+ years of experience her expertise in employee benefits is unmatched. She has scaled CETA Group to approx. $600k in annual revenue with ZERO W2 employees! Find out how adding benefits is not only easier than you think but a big factor in retaining employees. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts To Learn More About Stephanie and CETA use the details below. Stephanie Katz Contact: SDKatz.CETA@gmail.com 301-881-8883 --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Roberts interviews Rhonda Neal, the executive director of the St. Joseph's Parenting Center. Rhonda shares her story of growing up in Miami, Massachusetts, and Connecticut, and her passion for empowering people. She talks about how her love for business and the Lord has helped her in her journey, and how she embraces God as her partner in her work. Rhonda also discusses why she went into the nonprofit industry and her experience helping those in need. Tune in to this insightful episode to learn more about her journey and the work of the St. Joseph's Parenting Cente --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Robertson interviews Tzaih, a local sneaker designer from New Haven. Tziah discusses his creative background, including his interest in drawing, crafts, and animation. He also talks about his love for sneakers and how he started designing them, sharing his process for researching and recreating different styles. Tzaih's passion for sneaker design is evident throughout the episode, making it a must-listen for anyone interested in fashion or entrepreneurship. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts For More on T'zaih and How to Purchase it: https://linktr.ee/tzaihhanks Twitter - Click Here Instagram - Click Here --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Roberts interviews Linda Bullard, owner of LSB Solutions. Bullard is known as the "business plug" due to her talent for connecting people, and places to help them become successful. She shares her expertise in career development and repurposing her corporate experience of over 30 years to help small businesses. Bullard's career began at the age of 14 working as a waitress and she has worked in a multitude of industries, including the claims processing department of an insurance company where she managed 73 people. She also discusses how she got her nickname, the "business plug," and the hot seat session with Paul Brunson that led to it. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts To Check out Linda Bullard & LSMB Solutions Click Here to Visit LSMB Solutions Website Click Here for the Facebook Group --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Roberts interviews Steve Hoffman, the chairman, and CEO of Founders Space, a global startup incubator and accelerator. Hoffman shares his experience in startups and entrepreneurship, having done three venture-funded startups in Silicon Valley, two bootstrap startups, and founded Founders Space. He also discusses the three books he's published, focusing on the big dream, surviving a startup, and emerging technologies. Hoffman emphasizes the importance of being creative and passionate in entrepreneurship, and shares his own journey from coding games in high school to working in Hollywood, to developing games in Japan for Sega. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts To Check out Steve Hoffman and Founderspace: Founderspace.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

In this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Roberts interviews Emily Reagan, owner of Emily Reagan PR and a virtual assistant. Reagan provides an interesting glimpse into the world of freelancing, sharing how her business grew from an accidental start. She notes that marketing work is particularly well-suited to remote work, making it a natural choice for someone looking to work from home. Reagan's story highlights how her skill set was in high demand from the beginning, allowing her to grow her business quickly. However, she also acknowledges the challenges she faced in the early days of explaining her work as a virtual assistant and convincing clients she could effectively work from home. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support

On this episode of The Ramblings, host Angelo Roberts interviews Tshimologo, one of the social media managers at Off Source and a social media expert. Tshimologo shares her personal story of starting her own print-on-demand small business at the age of 18 and how it led her to social media marketing. She emphasizes the importance of social media in attracting clients and growing any business. Tshimologo also talks about her upbringing in South Africa and her experience working remotely. To learn more about Off/Source or get your own VA, visit the links below! Click Here to Visit Offsource.tech Click Here to Follow Angelo Roberts Follow Tshimologo on Social Media @TshimTshim --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/message Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/theramblings/support