Strategy & Action

Grab Dustin’s Premium Podcast Guesting Playbook for free at https://7figureleap.com/start In this episode, Jason Croft sits down with Dustin Riechmann, founder of Seven Figure Leap, to explore how coaches, consultants, and agency owners can use podcast guesting to systematically grow their business. Dustin shares his unconventional journey from civil engineer to marketing consultant to co-founder of a seven-figure meat stick brand—all built on the power of podcast appearances.Listeners will learn Dustin's proven five-step framework (the Five P's) for turning podcast interviews into revenue: Purpose, Plan, Pitch, Perform, and Profit. He reveals why most guests fail to monetize their appearances and how to fix that with strategic follow-up and relationship building. Jason and Dustin break down the guest-host dynamic from both perspectives, discussing how to craft pitches that actually get responses, what to do before and during interviews to maximize impact, and the often-overlooked strategies that happen after the episode goes live.The conversation dives into practical tactics like leveraging guest lists for partnership opportunities, repurposing interview content across multiple platforms, and building a marketing flywheel that compounds over time. Dustin explains why doing this yourself (with the right systems) beats hiring PR agencies, and how introverts can thrive in this format. Both share insider insights on what makes a standout guest, how to stand out to podcast hosts, and why relationship capital matters more than download numbers.Whether you're new to podcast guesting or you've done dozens of interviews without seeing real business results, this episode delivers actionable frameworks to turn conversations into clients.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/111

In this episode of Strategy & Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Lynette Xanders, founder of Wild Alchemy and former strategist at Stan Richards' legendary agency.Lynette reveals how she evolved from account planner to culture transformation specialist, working with brands like Nike and Adidas, and agencies like Wieden+Kennedy.Jason guides the conversation through Lynette's unique approach to solving the training gap that plagues most companies: what happens after the workshop ends?Learn how creative briefs become activation tools, not just documents.Discover why fragmentation is the #1 killer of brand consistency and team performance.Understand how to diagnose whether you have a brand problem, culture problem, or something else entirely.Lynette shares her "golden time" framework for building high-performing creative teams, the exact questions that reveal whether someone can think strategically, and why efficiency fuels creativity instead of killing it.Plus, get the truth about why most corporate training fails and what to do instead.If your team is disengaged, missing deadlines, or bleeding talent, this episode shows you the real problem and how to fix it.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/110

Sign up for your free account on ReferU2 here: https://www.referu2.com/s/user_36JW3cUF1fjhEKvfMTF8SK4DTev---If you're tired of grinding through networking events like some LinkedIn zombie…Hoping you'll magically bump into your next client…This episode is gonna be a wake-up call.Jason sits down with Derek Morgan...The dude who literally REVERSE ENGINEERED his own referral success…Just so he could teach others how to do it.Derek breaks down the difference between random networking…And actual REFERRAL MARKETING.Which is a system. A process. Something predictable.Not just "I hope someone remembers me at the next Zoom happy hour."Here's what you're gonna learn:- How to identify your TOP 3-5 referral partner profiles (the people who already have relationships with YOUR ideal clients)- The exact conversation framework to use with existing clients that gets THEM asking who you need introductions to (without you begging like a desperate salesperson)- Why leading with VALUE to referral partners changes everything (and what that value actually looks like)- The 5-phase referral marketing framework Derek uses to make partnerships predictable and scalable- How Derek built a platform called ReferU2 that actually manages these relationships WITHOUT creating another CRM nightmarePlus… Jason and Derek get into the MINDSET shift that separates people who get occasional referrals…From the ones who build referral MACHINES.If you're a coach, consultant, or service provider…And you're sick of cold outreach and expensive ads…This episode will show you a better way.One that doesn't require you to be everywhere all the time.Just strategic. Intentional. And actually kinda fun.Tune in and stop networking like it's 2015.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/109

How to build a career that actually LASTS in an industry where most people flame out...This is the FIRST episode in a new series Jason's calling Power Traits.Where he brings on people he's known for YEARS...And identifies the ONE core trait that's made them successful.Not the stuff they put on their LinkedIn.The REAL thing that separates them from everyone else grinding in their field.Today's guest is filmmaker Will Canon.And his power trait? RIGOR.The disciplined, relentless process of going back to the drawing board...Again and again and again.Will breaks down how he took The Confession from a road trip conversation in 2018 to a January 2026 streaming release...You'll learn:- How to dual-track creative projects and fundraising without losing your mind- The feedback collection system that actually WORKS (not the "what do you think?" basic nonsense)- Why going back to the drawing board 15-20 times makes you BETTER, not slower- The discipline Will developed as a high school athlete that still drives his process today- How to navigate indie film distribution when there are fewer buyers than everJason and Will also get into the messy reality of independent filmmaking in 2025...This isn't your typical "follow your dreams" filmmaker interview.It's a masterclass in RIGOR.The kind of disciplined, relentless iteration that separates people who SAY they're serious...From people who actually finish things.Plus some inside baseball on why streaming platforms are both easier AND harder than the old DVD days.Watch the whole thing if you want to understand what it REALLY takes to build something that matters.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/108

Grab Steve Miller's 25 Uncopyable Action Steps FREE here: https://www.beuncopyable.com/jason-croftIn this episode of Strategy & Action, Jason Croft sits down with Steve Miller—author of 11 books including Uncopyable—to break down why being "better" than your competition is a trap... and what to do instead.Steve reveals the concept of extrinsic benchmarking (stealing genius from completely unrelated industries), why most businesses are stuck playing copycat in their own box, and how he built an eight-figure business by focusing on just 200 companies.Jason digs into the challenge coaches and consultants face today: how do you stand out when everyone sounds the same? Together, they explore the difference between visibility and memorability, why competing on price is a losing game, and what it really means to create value so clear that the decision becomes easy.You'll hear wild stories from Steve's time as a Hollywood stuntman, his work with Apple and Caterpillar, and the field trip that changed how a construction equipment giant thought about customer experience.If you're tired of blending in and want to become the inevitable choice in your market, this episode gives you the playbook.Find all the show notes and links here:  https://www.strategyactionshow.com/107

Meet Paul Hoyt - a 60-year business veteran who traded spreadsheets for soul work...After 30 years crunching numbers in IT and 25 years as a business coach, Paul's embarking on his most ambitious project yet: helping good people become powerful enough to change the world.In this raw conversation, host Jason Croft digs deep into Paul's evolution... drawing out insights about the intersection of business strategy and personal transformation that most people never connect.You'll discover:• Why Paul believes good people need to get STRONGER (not just nicer)• The "I ROCK" framework that's helping people level up daily• How he's building a community where business and personal growth collide• The three modes of empowerment most programs completely ignore• Jason's perspective on why we need to embrace that personal development is never "done"• Why most people operate on default instead of realizing they can change who they are• Paul's vision for everyone to become "better than he is" (and how that mindset creates unstoppable movements)This isn't your typical feel-good personal development chat...Jason and Paul explore how left-brain business strategy combines with right-brain transformation to create something the world desperately needs right now.Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to align profit with purpose... or someone ready to step into your own "good power"... this conversation will shift how you think about making an impact.Ready to rock with integrity?Hit play and discover how one man's quest to "get his shit together" became a mission to empower an entire movement of world-changers.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/106

Most people think leadership is something reserved for executives in boardrooms. Marnie Stockman and Nick Coniglio are here to flip that script completely.In this episode, Jason sits down with the duo behind "Lead It Like Lasso" to explore why leadership isn't just about managing teams—it's about managing yourself first. They dig into the messy, beautiful truth that whether you're running a company, teaching a classroom, or navigating your family relationships, you're already leading in some way. The question is: are you doing it well?Marnie and Nick share how they went from working at the largest EdTech company in the world to starting, scaling, and selling their own business in three years. Their secret? A framework built on core values, self-awareness, and the kind of relatable leadership that doesn't require you to be Richard Branson.Jason pushes into the practical side of things—how do you actually discover your core values without staring at a blank page? How do you lead yourself when you feel stuck? And why does thinking about your legacy matter when you're just trying to get through the day?The conversation also touches on their latest book "The Business of You," which challenges listeners to run their lives with the same intention they'd bring to running a successful company. Because at the end of the day, the most important project you'll ever work on is you.If you've ever felt like leadership books are written for someone else, this episode is for you.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/105

Kasim Aslam has built and sold multiple 7 and 8-figure businesses.His secret?He's never actually DONE the work that made him millions.In this episode, Kasim breaks down why talent acquisition is the only entrepreneurial skill that matters... and why most business owners are doing it completely backwards.You'll discover:• Why trying to be the "hero" of your own business is keeping you broke• The "Black Box of Delegation" method that turns mediocre hires into miracle workers• How to find people who can build entire businesses FOR you (even if you've never hired anyone before)• Why the labor collapse is coming... and how to position yourself on the winning side• The simple framework Kasim uses to identify A-players in 14 days or lessPlus, Kasim reveals his contrarian take on AI in business...While everyone's worried about AI replacing workers, he's using it to make his BEST people even better.(And why that approach is about to create the biggest wealth gap in human history.)If you're tired of being the bottleneck in your own business...This episode will change how you think about building a team forever.Get Kasim's complete hiring framework (plus templates and worksheets) free at TheHireBook.comFind all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/104

Mo Salami had it all... on paper.Six-figure salary, nice house, nice car. But 16-hour workdays and zero fulfillment had him living what he calls "apparent success" - when someone else decides what success means for you.Then he saw a sign in a London bookstore that changed everything.In this raw conversation, Mo reveals:• The exact moment he "burned the boats" and left his healthcare career• How he went from burnout to generating $1M in sales in 90 days working with Tony Robbins• The difference between "apparent success" vs "actual success" (this will hit you hard)• His proven framework for designing your ideal lifestyle using online business + personal development• Why 96% of people never achieve the lifestyle they want by age 65 (and how to be in the 4%)Mo doesn't sugarcoat it. Building the life you want requires stepping out of your comfort zone. But as he proves, you CAN curate the lifestyle you wish to create.Whether you're stuck in the grind or ready to design something different, this episode will give you permission to write your own story.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/103

Your marketing agency is bleeding you dry... and you know it.While you're paying thousands for campaigns you can't understand, former executives turned coaches like you are getting left behind by marketers with half your expertise.Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing, reveals why the traditional agency model is broken... and what smart business owners are doing instead.In this episode, you'll discover:• The "Anti-Agency Model" that puts YOU back in control of your marketing• Why AI changes everything about building your marketing team (it's not what you think)• The 3-phase strategy framework that stops the guessing game with your marketing budget• How fractional CMOs are giving small businesses access to C-level marketing strategy at a fraction of the cost• The exact questions to ask any marketing partner to avoid getting burned againThis isn't about doing more marketing – it's about doing marketing strategically so it actually works.Sara shares real transformation stories from executives who went from "marketing doesn't work" to scaling beyond 1:1 work with confidence.Ready to take back control? This episode shows you how.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/102

For those of you who want more from life but can't seem to get out of your own way...Markus Kaulius returns to the show with nuclear energy and one simple message: you CAN change your life. Today. Right now.In this no-nonsense conversation, Jason and Markus dive into what it takes to actually make that first crucial step toward transformation. They break down:• The critical mindset shift that MUST happen before ANY personal development book or program can work for you• Why most people stay stuck in the "lukewarm pool" of mediocrity (and how to pull yourself out)• A 30-second exercise that instantly raises your confidence levels (try it - it actually works)• How Markus went from selling his 19-year business to writing a top-10 bestselling book and investing in companies aligned with his valuesIf you've ever looked at someone with seemingly boundless energy and confidence and thought "I could never be like that" - this episode will shatter that limiting belief.What makes this conversation unique is Markus' radical authenticity. He's not just another "crush it" bro spouting motivational quotes. He's been at rock bottom with zero confidence and transformed himself completely.Whether you're feeling stuck, considering a major life change, or just need a kick in the pants to stop focusing on all the negative crap in your life - this conversation delivers.By the end, you'll be ready to play a much bigger game.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/101

After 35 years and over 30,000 clients, master coach Gary De Rodriguez reveals the root cause holding back even your most driven clients - and the groundbreaking technique that can neutralize it in under 30 minutes.In this milestone 100th episode, Gary shares his Trauma Memory Resolution Technique - a revolutionary approach that's getting attention from psychotherapists worldwide. He explains how unresolved trauma (even from seemingly minor events) creates a "constellation of beliefs" that sabotages success, and why traditional coaching often falls short.You'll discover:• Why clients get "stuck" despite having clear goals and strong motivation• How trauma physically rewires the brain (and why willpower isn't enough)• A content-free coaching method that creates permanent change in 30 minutes• Why even pre-verbal experiences from infancy can impact adult behavior• The "compounding trauma" that most coaches miss entirelyWhether you're a coach, consultant, or helping professional, this episode provides a powerful new framework for creating breakthrough results with your clients. And the best part? You don't need to know ANY details about their trauma to help them heal it.This is a must-listen for anyone serious about taking their impact to the next level.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/100

Warning: If you're making $200-300K and feeling "comfortable"... this episode might scare the shit out of you.Joe Blackburn (ex-Merrill Lynch heavyweight turned 7-figure mastermind leader) drops a truth bomb that'll make you question everything:"There's gonna come a day - faster than any of us want - where your ONLY value will be your ability to connect and monetize."In this raw conversation with Jason Croft, Joe reveals:• Why "comfortable" professionals are about to get absolutely crushed (and what to do about it)• The psychological framework behind building a 7-figure coaching business with ZERO social media• How a former farm-to-farm salesman now runs elite masterminds for 8-figure entrepreneurs• The "Assassin's Blueprint" - A proven system for breaking past 6-figures without coming off as a sleazy salesperson• Why being "professionally trained" might actually be killing your earning potentialPerfect for: Successful but secretly stuck professionals, high-ticket service providers, and anyone who knows they're playing WAY below their potential.This is NOT your typical "Instagram guru" bullshit. Joe's built multiple 7-figure businesses by focusing on what actually works... not what's trending.Hit play now. Your future self will thank you.Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/99

In this insightful episode, host Jason Croft and his guest Priscilla McKinney dive deep into the power of collaboration. They break down the three essential elements that make true collaboration work - having something to win and lose, openly sharing goals, and a genuine desire to achieve a win-win. Priscilla shares candid stories and actionable tips on letting go of the competition mindset. She illustrates how an abundance mindset allows businesses and individuals to exponentially grow through collaboration. Jason and Priscilla discuss strategies for coaches, consultants, and small businesses to find and approach ideal collaborators. They explore creative ways to unite with competitors and companies for mutual benefit. From launching successful cross-promotions to hosting joint events, you'll discover tactics to collaborate without compromising trade secrets. Priscilla's three-step framework will shift your perspective on competitors. You'll learn to view them as potential partners in achieving grand visions neither could accomplish alone. If you're tired of competing and ready to embrace the power of collaboration, don't miss this conversation-changing episode. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/98

B2B branding isn't boring - it's a goldmine waiting to be tapped. In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Bill Kenney, CEO of Focus Lab and Odi, to explore the often misunderstood world of B2B branding. Bill shares his journey from small-town art kid to brand agency founder, working with tech companies from seed stage to IPO. He breaks down why branding matters, especially in the B2B space where many companies are afraid to stand out. Jason and Bill dive into: • Why brand is more than just a logo - it's the North Star of your organization • The hidden value of branding that can't be measured in short-term ROI • How MailChimp's quirky brand led to a $12 billion acquisition by Intuit • Why even "boring" B2B companies need to inject personality into their brand • The long-term compounding effects of investing in your brand Through real-world examples and personal anecdotes, Bill makes a compelling case for why B2B companies can't afford to ignore branding. He explains how a strong brand aligns your team, attracts talent, and helps you connect with customers on a human level. Jason pushes the conversation further, exploring the challenges of measuring brand impact and why many companies struggle to justify the investment. Together, they break down complex branding concepts into actionable insights for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a tech startup founder or a seasoned B2B marketer, this episode will change how you think about your company's brand. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the power of B2B branding. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/97

In this eye-opening episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Fred Barber, author of the groundbreaking book "Lifescapes," to discuss how the suburban lifestyle is slowly killing Americans – and what you can do about it. Fred reveals shocking statistics, like how sitting for long hours can lead to dementia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. He explains how the sedentary suburban lifestyle, where you have to drive everywhere, is worse for your health than smoking. But it's not just physical health at risk. Fred shares how social isolation in the suburbs is fueling an epidemic of loneliness in America. 22% of adults feel socially isolated, and the number with 5 or more close friends keeps dropping. The solution? Fred lays out a step-by-step plan for empty nesters and pre-retirees to escape the deadly suburbs. By downsizing to a smaller, cheaper home in a walkable urban area, you can: - Cut your housing costs by over 50% - Slash property taxes by 60% - Eliminate lawn care and maintenance costs - Build a vibrant social life in "third places" like coffee shops and dog parks - Rack up 10,000 steps a day just living your normal life Fred and Jason dive deep into the financial benefits of this "semi-nomadic lifestyle." Fred shares how he freed up thousands of dollars per month by moving. He explains how to calculate the true cost of living in different areas, factoring in state income and property taxes. But this episode is about way more than just numbers. Fred and Jason explore how relationships, physical health, and even political engagement can flourish in walkable communities. Whether you're an empty nester, young couple, or solo adventurer, this episode will inspire you to totally rethink your lifestyle and living situation. Fred shares tons of free and low-cost resources, including: - A database of 700 walkable neighborhoods at lifescapes.info - A system to rank neighborhoods based on your unique priorities - A model to estimate your tax savings in different states - Tips for "trying out" a new neighborhood before moving If you're fed up with the lonely, sedentary suburban lifestyle, this is a must-listen. Fred Barber will open your eyes to a totally new way of living - one that's healthier, happier, and much better for your bank account.

If you're a woman feeling stuck in your corporate career, this episode is a must-listen. Reagan Cannon, former Amazon and AT&T executive turned entrepreneur, gets brutally honest about why so many talented women get left behind on the climb to the C-suite. The reason? A lack of what Reagan calls "relational courage." After leading a nationwide research study on the barriers holding women back from executive roles, Reagan discovered that women often wait for confidence before taking action. But true courage is about "taking action in the face of your fears." In a conversation packed with insights from her 20-year corporate career, Reagan shares the crucial mindset shifts and practical strategies that help women break through to senior leadership: - How to get recognized for your results (hint: it's not just about doing great work) - Why building your reputation and relationships is just as important as your skill set - The underrated power of lifting others up as you climb - How to get clear on your "why" and redefine your identity as a leader Considering making the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship? Reagan's been there and has some advice: There's no "elegant off-ramp." At some point, you have to muster the courage to "cut across traffic and leave." But here's the good news: Many of the skills you honed in the corporate world - leadership, communication, and managing at scale - are actually your secret weapons as an entrepreneur. The key is transferring those skills to your new context with an experimental mindset. Knowing that "what you think will work, won't - and what you think won't work, will." Host Jason Croft drives the conversation forward with insightful questions that dig beneath the surface, while also sharing his own hard-won wisdom on the parallels between rising in the corporate ranks and succeeding as an entrepreneur. This episode will light a motivating fire under any woman who's ready to take her career to the next level - whether that's a coveted executive role or an entrepreneurial venture. Tune in now and let Reagan show you how to cultivate your relational courage and unleash your true leadership potential.

What if we told you the key to scaling your business is not complicated marketing tactics or big budgets, but simple human connection? In this captivating episode, Jason Croft sits down with Clay Hicks, the founder of H7 - a rapidly expanding B2B networking platform with members in 45 states, as well as Canada, Australia, England, Croatia, El Salvador, Columbia, Philippines, Italy, and India. Clay shares the powerful mindset shift that allowed him to grow from a single location in Cincinnati to a nationwide phenomenon, all through intentional networking and word-of-mouth. You'll discover his deceptively simple "Connect, Serve, and Ask" philosophy that has members lining up to be a part of the H7 movement. Learn how asking thoughtful questions, serving others first, and having the humility to ask for help created a community of champions who propelled Clay's vision forward. Forget the outdated "follow the rules" networking approach - this fresh perspective will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about building relationships that fuel real business growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, consultant, or simply looking to level up your networking game, you'll love this conversation with Clay. Grab a pen and get ready to be inspired by Clay's infectious enthusiasm and the remarkable results of living out timeless principles with unwavering commitment.

What if your biggest setback was actually your biggest advantage? In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Chad E. Foster, a man who refused to be defined by his circumstances. Diagnosed with a condition that left him blind by the age of 21, Chad's story could have been one of despair. Instead, it's a narrative of triumph, a journey from victim to visionary. Chad doesn't just share his story; he dissects the very fabric of resilience, offering listeners a blueprint to forge their own path through adversity. Jason Croft draws out the essence of Chad's message, making it accessible and actionable for everyone. Whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team, an individual facing your own set of challenges, or simply someone who loves a story of triumph against the odds, this episode is for you. Chad's insights are not just theoretical; they are forged in the crucible of real-life challenges. From his decision to attend Harvard Business School to his success in the corporate world and his impactful work as a speaker and author, Chad embodies the message he shares. His book, "Blind Ambition," is not just a memoir; it's a manual for anyone looking to build resilience in their own lives. This episode of Strategy + Action is an invitation to challenge your limits, step out of your comfort zone, and transform your life's toughest moments into your greatest victories. Join Jason and Chad as they explore what it means to truly live a resilient life. Dive into this episode for a journey that promises not just to inspire but to equip you with the tools to navigate your own challenges with grace, strength, and unwavering determination.

One of the biggest challenges in outsourcing your social media content or your client's content is keeping your "voice" when someone else is creating it. In this information-packed episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft digs deep with entrepreneur Becky Jolly on the ins and outs of outsourcing social media and content creation. Jason sets the stage by asking Becky about her journey into social media marketing and how she "found" herself as an entrepreneur after discovering a knack, passion, and talent for crafting branded content. Becky then dives into the nitty gritty of what to look for when bringing on a social media consultant, stressing the importance of finding someone who takes full ownership and has a clear onboarding process mapped out. Jason asks thoughtful questions about maintaining brand voice and personality when outsourcing, which Becky addresses by highlighting her tactics of deeply researching each client and shaping voice collaboratively. They also dig into the importance of remembering that even in the B2B (Business to Business) world that Becky does a lot of work in, it's critical for the businesses and anyone creating content for them that it's still all about Humans to Humans. The most effective B2B marketing appeals to the people within an organization rather than treating that company as just an entity. Other topics Jason and Becky explore include the value of improvisational skills in content creation, establishing formulas and structures to spark creativity, putting "anchor points" in your schedule to boost productivity, and more. Becky also outlines ideal customer profiles for her agency and directs listeners to her website to learn more. Whether you're considering outsourcing social media or simply want an inside look at how it works, don't miss this engaging back-and-forth between Jason Croft and social media expert Becky Jolly.