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The ProGuide
The ProGuide
Author: Andrew J. Mason
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Unleash Your Potential with ProGuide! Step into the minds of industry pioneers, technology disruptors, and creative visionaries. We offer riveting, in-depth conversations with business powerhouses like Seth Godin, productivity guru David Allen, and innovation expert Guy Kawasaki. Gain unparalleled insights from Fortune 500 corporations and the authors who dominate the NY Times Best-selling list. ProGuide is your ultimate gateway to master your craft, accelerate your career, and inspire your journey to success. Tune in and empower your personal and professional growth with lessons from the world's most influential leaders. Join the ProGuide community now!
86 Episodes
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In this episode of The ProGuide, we sit down with visionary entrepreneur Travis Rosser, co-founder of Kajabi and author of 'You, Inc.' Travis shares his journey from following his curiosity to creating a platform that empowers creators to build thriving online businesses. He talks about his early inspirations, key moments in his entrepreneurial journey, and the importance of passion and customer focus. Travis also dives into the transformative potential of AI, offering insights and advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. Don't miss this engaging and informative conversation! 00:00 Following Curiosity and Passion 00:39 Introduction to The Pro Guide and Travis Rosser 02:02 What is Kajabi? 02:28 The Origin Story of Kajabi 05:54 Early Entrepreneurial Ventures 08:06 Building the Kajabi Platform 10:26 Validating Business Ideas 12:03 The Importance of Passion and Bravery 15:37 Recognizing Patterns and Opportunities 17:13 Curiosity and Finding Customers 17:59 Influencer Marketing and Early Success 19:58 The Power of AI in Business 21:18 Leveraging AI for Product Development 23:39 Navigating the AI Gold Rush 26:07 Advising Entrepreneurs and Observing Trends 31:04 Connecting and Inspiring Entrepreneurs
In this episode of The ProGuide, host Andrew J. Mason interviews Vince Varallo, the head of 'Lead in English' and co-author of 'Leading in English: Confidently Communicate and Inspire Others.' Vince shares his unique career journey, starting from teaching English as a second language, and highlights the importance of both introverts and extroverts in communication careers. He discusses overcoming public speaking fears, the role of preparation, and the value of reading diverse literature. Vince also touches on the significance of engagement and connection in communication. The episode is sponsored by Small Pond Productions. 00:00 Introverts and Extroverts in Communication Careers 00:44 Sponsor Message: Small Pod Productions 01:14 Introduction to Vince Rallo 02:08 Vince's Journey into Communication Coaching 04:58 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety 07:11 The Importance of Preparation and Confidence 10:41 Advice for Aspiring Communicators 16:41 The Power of Connection and Engagement 19:12 The Value of Diverse Reading for Professionals 21:20 Conclusion and Contact Information
What if a simple popsicle could change your life? 🍦 In this episode of The Pro Guide, Andrew J. Mason sits down with Steve Carse, the founder and CEO of King of Pops, to dive into his inspiring entrepreneurial journey. From being laid off in the Great Recession to launching a beloved popsicle brand, Steve shares how he turned a passion for Latin American paletas into a thriving business that spreads unexpected moments of joy. 🌟 Learn about: ✅ The origin story of King of Pops ✅ How a pushcart revolutionized the business model ✅ The power of embracing fun in your work ✅ Lessons from failures & successful pivots ✅ Steve’s new book Yes, Work is Fun! and how to make any job more enjoyable If you’re an entrepreneur, creative, or just someone looking for inspiration, this episode is for you! Don't forget to like, subscribe, and hit the bell 🔔 for more thought-provoking interviews. #KingOfPops #Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #Podcast #BusinessGrowth #SteveCarse #WorkCanBeFun
In this episode of The ProGuide, Andrew J. Mason sits down with Jeff Twilley, a radio veteran with over 30 years of experience, to dive into the world of broadcasting and leadership. As the President and General Manager of 88.7 The Bridge, Jeff oversees a powerful station that spans Delaware, Maryland, Virginia, and New Jersey. Tune in as Jeff reflects on his career journey, the importance of maintaining a people-first culture, and the evolving media landscape. He shares insightful advice for aspiring radio professionals and discusses the unique mission and vision that drive the station's success. Whether you're interested in radio, leadership, or just want to hear from a passionate industry leader, this episode is packed with value. Key Highlights: Jeff Twilley: President and General Manager of 88.7 The Bridge Discussing the unique culture and mission of 88.7 The Bridge Insights on the evolving landscape of radio and media Advice for aspiring radio professionals The importance of people over process in leadership
In this compelling episode of The ProGuide, Andrew J. Mason sits down with Phil Sanders—entrepreneur, consultant, and financial strategist—to explore the zigzag journey of entrepreneurship. Phil candidly shares his experiences, from starting small with photography and graphic design to managing multi-million-dollar retail spaces, and ultimately finding his calling in consulting. Discover the importance of cutting unnecessary bloat, addressing emotional behaviors tied to financial struggles, and facing the "cave you fear most" to unlock personal and professional success. Phil dives into: The power of stripping down to essentials for clarity and growth. Balancing entrepreneurial ambition with family priorities. Practical tips for overcoming financial hurdles in business. The nuanced role of creativity in solving complex problems. The profound lessons learned through humility and resilience. Whether you're a seasoned entrepreneur or just starting, this episode is packed with actionable advice and heartfelt wisdom. Keywords: Entrepreneurship, financial consulting, business growth, creative problem-solving, overcoming obstacles, humility in leadership, financial strategy, small business, personal growth, The Pro Guide podcast
https://www.productivityist.com https://www.youtube.com/c/Productivityist In this enlightening episode of The ProGuide, Andrew J. Mason sits down with @Productivityist Mike Vardy to dive deep into the nuances of balancing quality and quantity in our quest for efficiency. Mike, a prolific writer and thought leader, known for his editorial stints at Lifehack and Workawesome, shares his journey from managing two distinct departments at Costco to becoming a renowned specialist in productivity. #### Why You Can’t Miss This Episode: 1. **Unique Insights into Time Management**: Learn the difference between managing time and crafting it. Mike introduces you to the concept of "Time Crafting" and how it can transform your productivity approach. 2. **Philosophical Take on Productivity**: Move beyond traditional productivity metrics and explore a more holistic, quality-focused approach to getting things done. 3. **Practical Techniques**: Discover actionable strategies like time theming and attention paths that you can apply immediately to enhance your productivity. 4. **Personal Anecdotes and Experiences**: Relate to Mike's personal stories, from his initial struggles to his current success, and find inspiration for your own productivity journey. 5. **Behind-the-Scenes Creativity**: Get a peek into Mike’s creative process and how he balances continuous learning with practical application. Whether you're a seasoned productivity enthusiast or just starting your journey towards better time management, this episode offers valuable takeaways that can help you refine your approach and improve your relationship with time. **Tune in now** to transform the way you think about productivity and start crafting your time with intention and purpose!
Today's Sponsor: https://www.smallpond.productions Marielle Legair's Website: http://mariellelegair.com Marielle's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mlegair/ In this inspiring episode of The ProGuide, Marielle Legair shares her transformative journey from being confined by fear to embracing courage, as highlighted by Brené Brown's wisdom on choosing between courage and comfort. Marielle, a speaker, LinkedIn top voice, and a coach in neuro-linguistic programming, dives deep into her personal experiences and the powerful shifts that propelled her from corporate uncertainty in London to entrepreneurial success in New York. This episode offers a wealth of knowledge on overcoming limiting beliefs, enhancing personal branding, and leveraging your unique strengths to excel in any career.
In this illuminating episode, we delve into the transformative insights and personal success journey of Tom Stanfill, the CEO of Aslan, a sales training company. With over 26 years of experience, Tom shares his evolution from viewing life as a competitive pyramid to understanding his unique role as a puzzle piece in a broader, interconnected community. His narrative is one of overcoming personal and professional setbacks to finding purpose and fulfillment in helping others excel in sales by fostering genuine connections and overcoming barriers.
Mike Schmitz: https://mikeschmitz.com/about/ Obsidian University: https://www.obsidianuniversity.com Today's Sponsor: https://smallpond.productions Mike Schmitz, a renowned figure in the personal knowledge management and productivity realm. Schmitz, co-host of the Focus podcast and founder of Obsidian University, delves into the essence of productivity, emphasizing the significance of identifying one's core values and vision to navigate life's journey effectively. Through his narrative, Schmitz underscores the notion that productivity is not merely about accomplishing tasks but aligning one’s actions with a deeper purpose and establishing healthy boundaries to prevent burnout. His approach advocates for the use of a compass over a blueprint, highlighting the importance of adaptability and intentional planning in achieving personal and professional fulfillment.
Key Points:
Focus Podcast: A podcast co-hosted by Mike Schmitz and David Sparks.
Personal Knowledge Management (PKM): A central theme discussed in the episode.
David Sparks: Mentioned as the co-host of the Focus podcast with Mike Schmitz.
Austin Kleon: Author of "Steal Like an Artist," referenced by Mike Schmitz.
The Creativity Flywheel: Concept developed by Mike Schmitz to describe his creative process.
The Great Mental Models, Volume 1: Book by Shane Parrish and Rhianna Bauben, mentioned by Mike Schmitz.
Liminal Thinking: Book by Dave Gray, discussed by Mike Schmitz.
Keith Cunningham: Author of "The Road Less Stupid," referenced by Mike Schmitz.
Twelve Week Year: Concept mentioned by Mike Schmitz during the discussion on productivity planning.
In this riveting episode of The Pro Guide, we dive deep into the harmonious blend of personal passions and professional expertise with David and Jennifer Masters from the David Masters Group. This dynamic duo, both grounded in a rich background of communications, event management, and brand strategy, share their journey of transforming their individual skills into a powerhouse branding agency. The episode, sponsored by Small Pond Productions, unfolds the narrative of how David and Jennifer leveraged their complementary skills to create a branding strategy that is not just a service but a heartfelt promise to their clients. They discuss their unique approach to branding as a form of storytelling that captures the essence of a company's identity and communicates it authentically to the world. Through their insightful conversation, we learn about the importance of listening, the art of brand strategy, and the magic that ensues when a couple brings their personal and professional worlds together to make a significant impact in the branding industry. Key Highlights: David and Jennifer Masters: The heart and soul behind the David Masters Group, a boutique branding agency. Small Pond Productions: The sponsor of the episode, showcasing its prowess in professional podcast production. The David Masters Group: A branding agency that offers brand strategy, visual identity development, messaging strategy, and brand activation services. Branding as a Promise: David Masters' philosophy that branding should be a sincere and authentic commitment to truth and integrity. Integrated Life and Work: How David and Jennifer balance their professional collaboration with their personal lives and family, contributing to their unique business model and creative process. Client Transformation Story: An example of how their approach significantly changed a college's perception of itself, leading to a shift in its admission standards. Future Aspirations: The Masters' vision for engaging in passion projects that challenge and excite them, and the hope of integrating their children into their business.
In today's episode of The ProGuide, we dive deep into the life of Jordan Hardgrow, an independent personal trainer and coach at Fit 1 4, whose encounter with a life-threatening assault in January 2021 reshaped his outlook on life. Through his harrowing experience, Jordan shares the monumental power of positivity, forgiveness, and the indomitable spirit of human resilience. This episode not only offers an inspiring story of survival and transformation but also serves as a testament to the strength found in vulnerability and the journey towards healing. Here's what makes this episode a must-listen: - Jordan Hardgrow's Story: A detailed recount of the life-altering assault Jordan faced and his journey to recovery. - Forgiveness and Positivity: Jordan's insights on how forgiveness and a positive outlook can significantly impact healing and personal growth. - Resilience and Strength: A lesson in resilience, showcasing how physical and emotional strength plays a crucial role in overcoming adversity. - Professional Insights: As an independent personal trainer, Jordan's approach to fitness and mental health, underlining the episode's focus on holistic well-being.
In this captivating episode of The ProGuide, we dive deep into the world of productivity and podcasting with Erik Fisher, a seasoned podcaster and the Account Brand Manager at Now Marketing Group. Fisher shares his journey from the early days of podcasting, emphasizing the evolution of the medium and the timeless lessons that remain relevant for new podcasters today. With insights into the power of self-awareness in productivity and the rejection of hustle culture, this episode is a treasure trove for anyone looking to navigate the complexities of creating engaging content and leading a balanced, productive life. Fisher's story, from his initial fascination with podcasting to his current role in helping brands leverage this dynamic medium, is both inspirational and instructional, offering listeners a unique blend of personal anecdotes and professional advice.
In this insightful episode of The ProGuide, Dr. Nate Regier, CEO of Next Element Consulting and author of "Compassionate Accountability," delves into the intriguing concept of balancing compassion with accountability in leadership. Dr. Regier, a seasoned psychologist, explores the often misconceived tension between maintaining relationships and achieving results, offering groundbreaking perspectives on this vital aspect of leadership. This episode is a must-listen for anyone keen on understanding how to navigate the complex dynamics of modern leadership without sacrificing humanity or efficiency.
Timestamps: 0:00 - Introduction 0:42 - Exploring the Gap 0:53 - Smallpond Productions 1:22 - Meet Dr. Nate Regier 2:20 - Compassionate Accountability and False Choices 6:11 - The Model of Compassionate Accountability 13:33 - Difference between Accountability and Responsibility 15:05 - The Three Fundamental Resets 17:25 - Barriers to Compassion 20:59 - Scale of Compassionate Accountability 21:54 - Recognizing Nuances 23:28 - The Value of Differences and Conflict 23:58 - Closing and Contact Information
In this captivating episode of "The ProGuide," we sit down with Ohio-based filmmaker Josh Emerick, a former skateboard enthusiast turned entrepreneurial filmmaker. Josh takes us on his remarkable journey, exploring the transformation from a skateboarder to a visionary in the video production landscape. This episode delves into Josh's unique approach to blending creativity with business acumen, highlighting the significance of storytelling, relationship building, and the transition from a technical perspective to a more comprehensive viewpoint in filmmaking. Sponsored by Small Pond Productions, this episode is not just a story; it's a treasure trove of insights for anyone aspiring to turn their creative passions into a successful enterprise. Whether you're a budding filmmaker, a creative entrepreneur, or simply someone who appreciates a good story, this episode is for you.
Thanks to our sponsor: https://smallpond.productions Tell Studios - https://www.tellstudios.com Studio Sherpas - https://www.studiosherpas.com Enroll Films - https://www.enrollfilms.com In today's episode, Andrew interviews Ryan Koral, an accomplished leader in video production and founder of Tell Studios, Studio Sherpas, and Enroll Films. Ryan shares his journey from a young creator with a dream of being on TV to a successful entrepreneur in the video production industry. He delves into the origins of Tell Studios, his passion for storytelling, and how he transitioned to helping other filmmakers through Studio Sherpas. The episode also covers the challenges and successes he faced along the way, his approach to storytelling for businesses and brands, and the launch of his new venture, Enroll Films, focused on higher education storytelling.
In this enticing episode of The ProGuide, we delve into the captivating world of Pretzelvania, a family-run food truck business founded by Emmitt Smith and his mother Wendy Smith. Originating from a humble idea on a family trip to San Diego, Pretzelvania was born out of a shared passion for creating the perfect soft pretzel. The Smiths’ journey from Pennsylvania to Alabama and eventually Delaware is a testament to their commitment to bringing a unique culinary experience to the South. Their story is one of innovation, familial bonds, and a deep-rooted love for community, culminating in a business that not only serves delicious pretzels but also aims to become a local mainstay. Join us as we unravel the layers of this heartwarming and inspirational tale.
EYNTK website: https://www.EYNTK.info Small Pond Productions: https://www.smallpond.productions In this captivating episode of The ProGuide, listeners are treated to a deep dive into the crossroads of creativity, technology, and business with the multifaceted @TharinWhite From his beginnings as a reporter to his ascension to media manager, White’s journey is nothing short of inspiring. His latest venture, EYNTK (Everything You Need to Know), is a testament to his expertise, covering travel, food, lifestyle, and after-hours in the Orlando area. The episode delves into the nuances of creating a diversified content platform and the strategic vision behind EYntk’s inception. White shares his perspective on the theme park industry, the future of immersive experiences, and the transformative impact of AI on customer service and content creation. This episode is a treasure trove for anyone keen on understanding the evolving dynamics of the digital landscape and the theme park industry.
Dive into the evolving world of podcasting, AI, and content creation with Jeff Sieh, a seasoned professional in the space. From leveraging AI tools to streamlining podcasting tasks to exploring the creative processes behind Marvel's Kevin Feige, this episode offers insights for both budding and established creators. Jeff shares valuable advice for those looking to stand out in a saturated digital landscape. Beyond technicalities, he emphasizes the joy of connecting with like-minded individuals through interview-style shows and the unparalleled opportunities today's technologies present.
In this eye-opening episode, Charlie dives deep into the essence of team dynamics and organizational efficiency, unraveling complex issues with refreshing simplicity. From exploring the three dimensions of power to dissecting the overlooked "team habits," Charlie provides actionable insights for making workspaces more human-centric and effective. He also emphasizes the importance of belonging for achieving high performance and tackles the changing landscape of decision-making post-pandemic. Whether you're a manager or an employee, this episode offers invaluable strategies to transform your work life.
Dive into an episode filled with profound insights as @thejeffheilmanproject 's Jeff Heilman, a serial entrepreneur, converses with Andrew J. Mason about the paradigm shifts that propelled his remarkable journey. Jeff shares how a change in mindset from an employee to a 1099 lifestyle catalyzed his success.
With intriguing anecdotes, Jeff unfolds the essence of expecting more from life, understanding the dominion we hold, and the liberating realization of taking full responsibility for one's life. His narrative further dives into a meticulous approach to goal setting and time management, emphasizing the power of living in the 'now'.
Drawing inspiration from Jeff Bezos' customer obsession and Sarah Blakely's sheer resolve, Jeff expounds on the magic of caring deeply for the problems you aim to solve. His faith plays a quintessential role, serving as the bakery from where all "pies" of his life originate, underlining the inseparability of his faith and business endeavors.
Jeff's tale is a hearty blend of faith, customer-centricity, and an indomitable spirit that breaks through the poverty mentality, encouraging listeners to demand more from life and chase their unique dreams.




