Hands-Off CEO

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson sits down with Amanda Freick, founder of Creative Intelligence Group, to unpack what it really takes to sell into complex, high-stakes industries and why mindset, confidence, and execution matter just as much as strategy.Amanda shares how her firm helps companies selling into electric utilities and other complex organizations navigate 18–24+ month sales cycles, build scalable commercial infrastructure, and shorten time to revenue without cutting corners. With deep expertise in the energy sector, she explains why utilities are intentionally hard to sell to, how road signs like MSAs and pilots signal real progress, and why chasing “silver bullets” can destroy long-term growth.But this conversation goes far beyond sales mechanics. Amanda opens up about imposter syndrome, burnout, pricing fear, and the internal work required to step into leadership at a higher level. She shares how shifting from hourly work to value-based retainers, narrowing her offer, and fully owning the impact of her work transformed not just her business, but her confidence, team, and energy.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ Why selling into utilities and complex organizations requires patience, capital, and deep industry fluency✅ How to shorten long enterprise sales cycles without compromising trust or compliance✅ Why MSAs, pilots, and internal “road signs” matter more than early revenue✅ The dangers of hourly consulting and why delivering outcomes changes everything✅ How narrowing your offer increases confidence, pricing power, and scalability✅ Why founders often block their own growth through fear, control, and over-optimization✅ The connection between burnout, cortisol, and leadership decision-making✅ How mindset shifts translate directly into stronger teams, better clients, and faster growth✅ Why building the vision first prevents you from building a business that becomes a prisonThe most successful founders don’t just refine their strategy. They redefine how they see themselves, their value, and their role in their clients’ businesses. This episode is a powerful reminder that sustainable growth comes from clarity, courage, and the willingness to step fully into your expertise.🔗 Connect with Amanda Freick: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amandafreickWebsite: https://www.creativeintelligencegroup.net🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy →

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson sits down with Jeff Greenfield, CEO and founder of Provalytics, to unpack why most marketing measurement is broken and how brands, agencies, and CMOs can finally prove what actually drives revenue.Jeff shares nearly two decades of experience building and exiting one of the first multi-touch attribution platforms, explaining how privacy changes, click-based analytics, and platform-reported metrics have misled marketers into making costly decisions. Instead of optimizing for what truly changes behavior, many teams are trapped optimizing for clicks, often at the expense of long-term growth.This conversation explores how predictive marketing models, finance-grade validation, and a shift from activity-based reporting to outcome-based measurement allow marketing leaders to earn trust with CFOs, unlock larger budgets, and position marketing as a true revenue driver. When marketing is measured in the same way as financial models, business teams gain clarity, confidence, and the ability to navigate uncertainty without guesswork.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ Why click-based attribution (including GA4) distorts decision-making and undervalues brand and upper-funnel investment✅ How to connect marketing activity to real revenue outcomes, online and in brick-and-mortar sales✅ What CFOs actually look for in marketing data and how to earn credibility with finance teams✅ Why impressions, attention, and awareness drive behavior long before conversions happen✅ How predictive marketing models outperform dashboards and platform reports✅ The difference between selling marketing activity vs. delivering measurable business outcomes✅ Why agencies that act as growth partners rather than vendors win bigger, longer-term engagements✅ How specialization, proof, and modeling help marketers navigate uncertainty, privacy changes, and fragmented media channelsThe most effective marketers and agencies don’t rely on vanity metrics or flashy dashboards. They build trust through proof, model the future instead of reporting the past, and focus relentlessly on what actually changes customer behavior. This episode offers a clear blueprint for turning marketing into a predictable, defensible growth engine.🔗 Connect with Jeff Greenfield:Website: https://getprova.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgreenfield🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy →

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson talks with Cam Beaudoin, a speaker strategist who helps founders, consultants, and service-based business owners leverage speaking to build authority, attract high-value clients, and scale influence without chasing big stages or flashy keynotes.Cam shares how he has helped experts turn speaking into a strategic growth engine, utilizing stages, breakout rooms, and recorded talks to generate leads, build credibility, and create repeatable business opportunities. Instead of relying on one-off events or massive audiences, Cam shows how intentional speaking can compound over time and position you as the expert event planners want to book.When your speaking strategy is structured around influence, relationship-building, and repeatable systems, your authority grows, your audience converts into clients more predictably, and your business scales without unnecessary stress or wasted effort.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ Why the stage should never be the goal and how to use speaking as a vehicle for influence, trust, and revenue✅ How founders and consultants can leverage small, intimate audiences to close higher-value opportunities✅ The difference between being an implementer vs. being seen as a true expert and why it determines who gets booked✅ Why event planners are risk-averse and exactly what they look for when booking speakers✅ How to use YouTube and recorded stage content to build authority and get more speaking opportunities✅ How to turn talks into content, lead generation, follow-up conversations, and backend sales✅ Why mastering the spoken word is one of the highest-leverage skills a founder can develop long-termThe best founders and consultants don’t grow their business by chasing large audiences or trying to become celebrity speakers. They scale by building a speaking strategy that creates influence, builds trust, and converts audiences into high-value opportunities. 🔗 Connect with Cam Beaudoin: Website: www.thefrequentspeaker.com🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast4️⃣ Apply for The Invisible Advantage™ Growth Program We’ll help you uncover your Invisible Advantage, package it into a premium offer, and scale profitably without adding to your workload. Learn more → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson talks with Shaun Alger, a sales strategist and advisor to mid-market companies, about how businesses can build repeatable sales systems that scale without relying on luck, superstar hires, or constant firefighting.Shaun shares how he’s helped mid-market companies overcome the “complexity ceiling,” turn client relationships into growth engines, and create structured sales processes that drive predictable revenue. Instead of growing through reactive efforts or overextending teams, Shaun shows how top-performing companies scale by combining strategy, systems, and relational selling.When your sales operations are structured around process, metrics, and human connection, your business scales more predictably, your team performs better, and your client relationships strengthen, all while freeing leaders to focus on growth instead of putting out fires.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ Why the human side of sales is just as critical as process and data for long-term growth ✅ How mid-market companies can scale from $5M to $100M+ without losing control ✅ Turning mistakes into stronger relationships with clients, employees, and investors ✅ Leveraging fractional teams, proven processes, and metrics to add CRO-level impact without a $500k price tag ✅ Using tangible results and case studies to build trust, accelerate referrals, and attract high-value clients ✅ Steps to future-proof your business in a rapidly changing market with AI and technology ✅ How to combine structure, strategy, and relationships to create a repeatable growth engineThe best mid-market companies don’t scale by relying on hero salespeople or reactive firefighting. They scale by building the right systems, focusing on relational value, and empowering their teams to deliver consistent results. With clear processes, measurable outcomes, and strategic relationships, your business grows predictably while leaders stay in control.🔗 Connect with Shaun Alger:Website: https://volohaus.com/🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast4️⃣ Apply for The Invisible Advantage™ Growth Program We’ll help you uncover your Invisible Advantage, package it into a premium offer, and scale profitably without adding to your workload. Learn more → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast

n this episode, Mandi Ellefson sits down with Steve Gordon, founder of Million Dollar Author, to uncover how business owners can scale, attract clients, and generate referrals without constantly chasing prospects.Steve shares how he’s helped founders use books as powerful business development tools, position themselves as a “category of one,” and leverage their expertise along with AI to grow revenue predictably. Instead of relying on endless sales calls or overstaffed teams, Steve reveals how top-performing businesses grow by capturing their unique intellectual property, systematizing processes, and using books strategically to drive high-value opportunities.When your business is structured around your unique IP, leveraged through a book, and supported by repeatable systems, you attract the right clients, close high-ticket opportunities more efficiently, and free up your time as a founder.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:✅ How to position yourself as a “category of one” so AI and competitors can’t replace you✅ Using a book as a business development engine to generate leads, referrals, and high-value opportunities✅ How to turn your expertise into a repeatable, scalable sales process✅ Leveraging AI with your book to create content, newsletters, and social proof faster✅ Building systems that free the founder from constant sales dependence✅ How to structure outreach and nurturing to convert prospects without high-pressure calls✅ The mindset shift from chasing clients to designing a business that sells itselfThe best businesses don’t grow by doing more—they grow by building strategic leverage, packaging their knowledge, and systematizing outreach and client acquisition. With the right positioning, content, and process, your business can scale predictably while reducing founder dependency.🔗 Connect with Steve Gordon: Website: https://milliondollarauthor.io Get your free copy of The Million Dollar Book: https://get.themilliondollarbook.org🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast4️⃣ Apply for The Invisible Advantage™ Growth Program We’ll help you uncover your Invisible Advantage, package it into a premium offer, and scale profitably...

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson talks with Eli Rubel, founder of Profit Labs, about how agency owners can scale profitably without adding unnecessary headcount, chaos, or complexity.Eli shares how he’s helped agencies increase net profit, position themselves as the “chosen path” for premium clients, and build lean, profit-first operations that run smoothly without the founder at the center. Instead of growing through brute force or overstaffing, Eli reveals how top-performing agencies grow by focusing on pricing, positioning, and structured systems that work predictably.When your agency is structured around profit and outcomes, your business scales more easily, your team performs better, and your revenue grows, all while freeing up the founder’s time.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ How to use pricing as a lever to drive outsized profit ✅ How to position your agency as results-driven to command higher fees ✅ Building a profit-first model to anticipate growth, team needs, and investments ✅ Structuring teams in profit-driven pods for scalable operations ✅ Avoiding the 7–15 employee growth plateau that stalls many agencies ✅ How to simplify operations while increasing revenue and client outcomes ✅ The mindset shift from doing everything yourself to architecting a business that runs itselfThe best agencies don’t grow by doing more, they grow by building the right systems, focusing on profitable outcomes, and empowering their teams to deliver results. With clarity, structure, and profit-first planning, your agency stops depending on you and starts scaling predictably.🔗 Connect with Eli Rubel: Website: https://profit-labs.co🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast4️⃣ Apply for The Invisible Advantage™ Growth Program We’ll help you uncover your Invisible Advantage, package it into a premium offer, and scale profitably without adding to your workload. Learn more → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast

In this episode, Mandi Ellefson talks with Gray MacKenzie, co-founder of ZenPilot, about how agency owners can build scalable, self-managing operations that run smoothly, without adding more people, tools, or chaos.Gray shares how he’s helped hundreds of agencies streamline their systems, eliminate operational bottlenecks, and build clarity into every level of their business. Instead of growing through brute force and burnout, Gray reveals how top-performing agencies grow through structure, simplicity, and systems that work without the founder at the center.When your operations run like clockwork, your business becomes easier to scale, your team performs better, and your profit margins rise, all while you get your time back.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn: ✅ How to design scalable systems that eliminate chaos and confusion ✅ The 3 pillars of operational clarity that drive predictable results ✅ Why “doing less” often leads to faster and more profitable growth ✅ How to use ClickUp to streamline delivery and increase accountability ✅ The most common scaling mistakes agencies make and how to avoid them ✅ How to empower your team to own results and make decisions ✅ The mindset shift from managing everything to leading through systemsThe best agencies don’t grow by doing more, they grow by doing what matters, better. When you build clarity into your operations, your agency stops depending on you and starts scaling on its own.🔗 Connect with Gray MacKenzie:Website: https://www.zenpilot.com🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1️⃣ FREE – Stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients. Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3️⃣ Read The Hands-Off CEO Book (4.7★ on Amazon)Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Grab your copy → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast4️⃣ Apply for The Invisible Advantage™ Growth Program We’ll help you uncover your Invisible Advantage, package it into a premium offer, and scale profitably without adding to your workload. Learn more → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast

In this episode, Mandi talks with Jeremy Weisz, co-founder of Rise 25, about how service firm owners can use podcasting as a powerful tool to build authority, deepen relationships, and consistently attract high-value clients without spending a cent on ads.Jeremy shares how he’s helped hundreds of agencies and consultants create “relationship engines” through podcasting systems that generate partnerships, referrals, and long-term opportunities that most firms completely overlook.Instead of chasing leads, Jeremy reveals how to build genuine authority by leading meaningful conversations and why your network, not your audience size, determines your growth.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How to turn a podcast into a lead-generation and authority-building systemThe Rise25 framework for turning guest conversations into client opportunitiesWhy the best podcasts focus on relationships, not downloadsHow to position your show so dream clients are excited to joinThe mindset shift from “creating content” to creating connectionHow to stay consistent without adding more to your workloadWhy generosity and curiosity are your biggest growth leversThe best agencies don’t chase clients, they attract them by becoming the trusted authority in their space. When you use podcasting to connect, elevate, and lead with insight, your business grows on the strength of relationships that last.🔗 Connect with Jeremy Weisz: Website: https://rise25.com🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us: 1️⃣ FREE – Want to stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients? Join our next Executive Briefing → https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast 2️⃣ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: Unlock $10K–$50K Hidden in Your Business → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast 3️⃣ BOOK – The Hands-OFF CEO: Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast 4️⃣ 1-on-1 Coaching – Find your next growth breakthrough → https://handsoffceo.com/scale?utm_source=podcast

In this episode, Mandi shares how one firm went from charging a few hundred dollars an hour to closing million-dollar contracts,  simply by redefining the category they played in. Instead of selling services like engineering or surveying, they positioned themselves around solving the high-stakes problems that keep executives up at night,  saving companies hundreds of thousands in lost profits and delays.By reframing their offer around measurable client outcomes, they didn’t just raise prices, they multiplied their value. Within months, they replaced low-margin clients with top-tier ones willing to pay six and seven figures for results that truly mattered.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:How to reposition your services around transformational outcomes,  not deliverablesThe strategy that helped one firm 5x its fees and land million-dollar contractsWhy solving C-suite problems creates instant demand and loyaltyThe difference between tactical selling and strategic category ownershipHow to attract higher-value clients who see your work as indispensableWhy clarity of value is the foundation for premium pricingThe top 5% of firms aren’t competing on rates,  they’re competing on results. When you position your business around outcomes your clients can’t ignore, you stop chasing opportunities… and start commanding them.🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1/ FREE - Want to stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients? Join our next Executive Briefing: https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2/ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: How to Unlock $10K-$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3/ Get My Book: The Hands-OFF CEO – Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Yours for just $4.99 → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast4/ Work With Us 1-on-1: Let’s find the breakthrough that takes your agency to the next level → https://handsoffceo.com/scale?utm_source=podcast

In this solo episode, Mandi reveals the single biggest advantage that sets the top 5% of consulting and agency firms apart and how you can start building it in your business in just 30 days.While most agencies are busy optimizing operations, chasing leads, or cutting costs, the best firms are doing something entirely different: they’re optimizing for client profit and proof of results. Mandi shares real client examples, case studies, and frameworks that show how to reposition your firm from being a vendor to becoming a strategic advisor your clients can’t live without.🔍 In This Episode, You’ll Learn:Why the top 5% of firms are widening the gap and how to catch up fastHow to package your client results into case studies that land $100K+ dealsThe biggest mistake most agencies make (and what to focus on instead)Why optimizing for client profit leads to far higher margins, even with clunky opsHow to use the “Bridge Framework” to lead clients to bigger outcomesThe mindset shift from “people-pleasing” to powerful leadershipWhat success conditions you must require for clients to achieve transformational resultsHow to double your prices and profits by focusing on outcomes, not deliverablesWhy proof is the most powerful growth engine in uncertain marketsThe top 5% of firms aren’t waiting for the market to stabilize,  they’re creating stability through proof, outcomes, and bold leadership. You can do the same. Build the systems that make your results undeniable, and watch the right clients start chasing you.🎯 Want to Scale? Here Are 4 Ways to Work With Us:1/ FREE - Want to stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients? Join our next Executive Briefing: https://handsoffceo.com/briefing/?utm_source=podcast2/ FREE – Grab our $500K Pipeline Map: How to Unlock $10K-$50K Hidden in Your Business Right Now → https://scale.handsoffceo.com/map?utm_source=podcast3/ Get My Book: The Hands-OFF CEO – Triple Your Fees and Scale Without Burning Out. Yours for just $4.99 → https://handsoffceo.com/book?utm_source=podcast4/ Work With Us 1-on-1: Let’s find the breakthrough that takes your agency to the next level → https://handsoffceo.com/scale?utm_source=podcast

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson talks with Logan Lyles, founder of Demand Shift. Logan helps B2B agencies and brands turn simple marketing into predictable growth using webinars that actually convert and authentic outreach that builds trust.Together, they unpack how Logan went from launching his agency to booking dozens of sales calls in just weeks, all without complicated funnels or big ad budgets. He shares exactly how he used LinkedIn, a short survey, and value-first webinars to build relationships and win clients fast.You’ll learn why most agencies overcomplicate their marketing, and how a back-to-basics approach can help you grow faster, reach better-fit clients, and stop wasting time on tactics that don’t move the needle.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How Logan built a full client pipeline in his first month using LinkedInWhy a simple 4-minute survey can generate dozens of quality leadsHow to avoid “dead ends” in your marketing funnel and move prospects forwardThe 3T’s of high-converting webinars: Topic, Title, and ThumbnailHow to promote webinars effectively, even with a small audienceWhy the best webinars educate instead of pitch and how that builds trustWhat to focus on first if you want marketing that’s simple and scalableIf you’ve been stuck in overcomplicated marketing systems that don’t deliver, this episode will show you how to simplify your strategy, attract better clients, and turn conversations into real growth.Connect with Logan Lyles: https://demandshift.co/webinar-fast-track

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson unpacks one of the biggest fears firm owners face, raising prices. For many, it feels risky, even dangerous, because losing a single client can feel like a step backward. But as Mandi reveals, the real danger isn’t in raising your rates, it’s in how you position the increase.You’ll discover why most firms trigger pushback the moment they justify price hikes with “rising costs” or extra deliverables, and how to avoid falling into that trap. Instead, Mandi shows you how to reframe your offers around the bigger outcomes. Clients truly want growth, profit, and transformation so that higher fees land as a declaration of leadership, not bad news.She also shares a simple four-part script you can use to confidently present new fees in a way that builds trust, authority, and excitement with your best clients. And you’ll see why the top firms in every industry are charging 2x–3x more without working harder by anchoring their services to results that matter most.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why raising your prices isn’t the real risk and what isThe mistake that makes price increases feel like bad news to clientsA four-step script to present higher fees with confidence and clarityHow to shift from “vendor” to “growth partner” by leading clients to bigger outcomesWhy the most profitable firms don’t add more work and make results more certain🕒 Chapters00:00 – Why raising your prices feels risky00:35 – The real danger isn’t the price increase01:10 – The wrong way firms explain higher fees01:55 – What clients actually care about (outcomes)02:40 – Reframing your value around revenue impact03:25 – Thinking like a growth partner, not a vendor04:15 – How to anchor fees to client results05:05 – The 4-part script for raising your prices06:10 – Avoiding the “more deliverables” trap06:50 – Spot, quantify, and prove the value gaps07:40 – Turning price increases into trust and authority08:25 – Your challenge: lead with outcomes, not tasks09:10 – Case studies: firms doubling and tripling profits09:55 – Why premium fees unlock scalable growthIf you’ve been holding back on raising your rates out of fear of pushback, this episode will give you the tools and mindset shift to increase profits, strengthen client trust, and position yourself as the leader clients can’t afford to lose.👉 Want to stop undercharging and start landing $100K+ clients? Join our next Executive Briefing: https://handsoffceo.com/briefing

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson talks with Kristie Plantinga, founder of Place Digital. Kristie helps agencies and service providers simplify their marketing and attract clients with content that actually converts.Together, they dig into why so many agencies struggle with marketing that feels scattered and how to build a simple, repeatable system that brings in the right leads without burning you out. From choosing the right channels to creating content that speaks directly to your ideal clients, Kristie shares practical steps you can start using right away.You’ll discover why trying to be everywhere online leaves you exhausted, and how focusing on the basics can grow your authority and your pipeline.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why most agencies overcomplicate their marketing (and how to fix it)How to choose the right marketing channel for your businessThe difference between creating content just to put something out there versus creating content that’s tied to real business outcomesWhy consistency beats chasing the latest trend every timeHow to make marketing simple enough to stick with long termWhat agencies should focus on first if they want predictable inbound leadsIf you’ve ever felt like your marketing is all over the place or you’re creating content that doesn’t get results, this episode will show you how to simplify, focus, and finally make marketing work for your agency.Connect with Kristie: https://www.therapieseo.com/

If you’ve tried EOS but growth still feels flat, exhausting, or like you’re just spinning your wheels, this podcast explains why.EOS is a powerful framework, but it’s not designed to fix weak positioning, underpriced offers, or a sales process that drags. And until those pieces are solved, no amount of L10s or accountability charts will create real scale.In this episode, you’ll see why firms plateau when they “systematize struggle” and the smarter path to building a scalable, premium offer first.Once your offer is dialed in, EOS becomes rocket fuel. But without it, you’re just making inefficiency more efficient.🔍 You’ll Learn:Why EOS doesn’t solve demand, pricing, or positioning gapsThe “illusion of progress” most agencies get stuck inHow to reposition around your invisible advantageThe key to premium pricing that clients happily payWhy EOS works best after you’ve nailed a high-fee scalable offer🚀 Want Help Repackaging Your Offer to Scale Without a Bigger Team?1/ Book a Free Strategy CallIf you’re ready to reposition your firm and start closing premium deals, let’s talk. 👉 handsoffceo.com/scale2/ Read the Book – *The Hands-Off CEOLearn the framework behind scaling premium consulting engagements — without doing it all yourself. 📘 handsoffceo.com/book3/ Download the Free Revenue Recovery MapUnlock hidden revenue in your firm and learn how to command premium fees without more complexity. 📄 handsoffceo.com/mapWatch the episode on YouTube here:YOUTUBE PODCAST

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson talks with Jody Sutter, founder of The Sutter Company. Jody has helped agencies of all sizes simplify their business development and win clients without burning out or chasing the wrong opportunities.Together, they dig into why most agencies overcomplicate growth and how to make business development simple, repeatable, and effective. From positioning that actually attracts the right clients to turning your sales process into a system, Jody shares practical steps to help agency owners escape the feast-or-famine cycle.You’ll hear why trying to be everything to everyone keeps agencies stuck, and how a clear niche and client-focused messaging can unlock real growth.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why AI is changing how agencies need to position themselvesThe difference between “we’re awesome” messaging and client-focused messaging that wins dealsHow to niche without closing doors (and why it helps you grow faster)Why many agencies fail to measure results and what to track insteadHow shifting from vendor to growth partner gives you access to client KPIsHow to turn your sales process into a repeatable system that doesn’t depend on youIf you’ve ever felt stuck chasing proposals, competing on price, or struggling to win the right clients, this episode will show you how to simplify your growth strategy and finally build a business development system that works.👉 Connect with Jody: https://www.thesuttercompany.com/

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson talks with Sharon Toerek, founder of Toerek Law and host of The Innovative Agency. Sharon is an attorney who’s spent years helping agencies protect their businesses, get paid faster, and turn their ideas into valuable assets.Together, they dive into the hidden risks that hold agencies back and the simple legal moves that can unlock more profit, protection, and long-term value. From contracts that actually get you paid to new rules around using AI in client work, Sharon shares practical steps every agency owner needs to hear.You’ll discover why treating your ideas and systems like real assets is a game-changer, and how the right protections can increase what your business is worth if you ever want to sell it.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why your intellectual property is your agency’s most valuable asset (after your people)How to turn your ideas and systems into new revenue streams beyond client workThe contract mistakes that cost agencies thousands and how to fix themA simple clause that protects you when clients stall or refuse to payWhy every agency needs clear rules for AI use before it backfiresWhat’s really happening with agency sales and acquisitions right nowIf you’ve ever worried about not getting paid, losing ownership of your ideas, or building something that’s not secure, this episode will give you the tools and clarity you need to grow a stronger, more valuable agency.👉 Connect with Sharon: legalandcreative.com

In this episode of the Hands-Off CEO Podcast, Mandi Ellefson welcomes back Michael Zipursky, CEO of Consulting Success. Michael has worked with thousands of consultants worldwide, helping them build more profitable, scalable, and freedom-filled businesses.Together, they dive into the radical shifts happening in the consulting space. From AI disruption to global uncertainty and how these changes are creating a clear divide between firms that adapt and those that fall behind.You’ll discover why consultants who only sell “deliverables” risk being commoditized, and why the real winners are repositioning around must-have offers that solve urgent, strategic problems. Michael also shares how consultants can use AI, not as a threat, but as a multiplier, both in their own operations and in creating value for clients.🔍 What You’ll Learn in This Episode:Why AI is both the biggest disruptor and biggest opportunity for consultants todayHow uncertainty in the market is changing buyer behavior (and slowing sales cycles)The difference between “nice-to-have” services and “must-have” solutions clients pay forHow to reposition your offers around ROI and business-critical outcomesWhy defining your personal vision of success matters more than following someone else’sIf you’ve been feeling stuck selling deliverables or competing on price, this episode will show you how to adapt, differentiate, and thrive in a changing market.👉 Michael’s Consulting Website: consultingsuccess.com 👉 Take Michael’s Consulting Superpower Quiz: consultingsuccess.com/superpower

If you're stuck at capacity, pricing too low, and feel like growth means burnout — this video shows you a smarter path to scale.In this episode, Mandi Ellefson shares how two consulting firms 2X’d their prices and 6X’d their profits without hiring or hustling harder.They didn’t need a bigger team — they needed a better offer.This strategy helped them reposition around outcomes, simplify delivery, and close premium deals with confidence.If you’re delivering great results but not getting paid what you’re worth — you’ll want to see how they did it.🔍 You’ll Learn:How one shift helped a firm raise pricing from $5K to $10K/month — without resistanceThe framework that drove a 600% profit increase (with the same team)Why simplifying delivery actually boosted results and freed up capacityHow to lead sales conversations with confidence — even at higher feesWhat makes clients say “yes” faster when your value is clear🚀 Want Help Repackaging Your Offer to Scale Without a Bigger Team?1/ Book a Free Strategy CallIf you’re ready to reposition your firm and start closing premium deals, let’s talk. 👉 handsoffceo.com/scale2/ Read the Book – *The Hands-Off CEOLearn the framework behind scaling premium consulting engagements — without doing it all yourself. 📘 handsoffceo.com/book3/ Download the Free Revenue Recovery MapUnlock hidden revenue in your firm and learn how to command premium fees without more complexity. 📄 handsoffceo.com/mapWatch the episode on YouTube here:YOUTUBE PODCAST

Are you the one holding your agency together — and holding it back?If you’ve hired a team, built some systems, and delegated tasks… but you still can’t step away without things stalling — you're not scaling, you're surviving.In this video, Mandi Ellefson breaks down why founders become the bottleneck in their agency’s growth — even when it looks like they’re doing everything right — and how to fix it.You’ll learn:✅ The real reason your team still leans on you for everything✅ Why systems alone don’t create scale✅ How to shift from managing work to leading a high-performance team✅ A case study of a founder who stepped away during a launch — and came back to everything running better without her✅ What has to change if you want to scale profitably without sacrificing quality or growthWhether you're stuck in meetings, reviewing work, or constantly catching problems before they hit the client, this is your invitation to finally step out — and level up.🎯 Ready to stop being the bottleneck and start scaling forward?1/ Book a Free Strategy CallIf you’re ready to reposition your firm and start closing premium deals, let’s talk. 👉 handsoffceo.com/scale2/ Read the Book – *The Hands-Off CEOLearn the framework behind scaling premium consulting engagements — without doing it all yourself. 📘 handsoffceo.com/book3/ Download the Free Revenue Recovery MapUnlock hidden revenue in your firm and learn how to command premium fees without more complexity. 📄 handsoffceo.com/map⏱️ CHAPTERS00:00 – You’ve Hired and Delegated — But It’s Still on You00:27 – What Being the Bottleneck Really Looks Like01:20 – Real Story: Sharon’s Team Handles It Without Her01:55 – Why Most Agencies Stay Stuck02:18 – The Shift: From Delegating Tasks to Owning Outcomes02:45 – How to Rebuild a Business That Runs Without You03:10 – Next Steps to Scale Without Sacrificing GrowthWatch the episode on YouTube here:YOUTUBE PODCAST

Your $20K proposal isn’t failing because of the price — it’s failing because your consulting firm’s value proposition isn’t landing. And ironically? The same clients who ghost your $20K pitch might eagerly say “yes” to $100K — if you position it the right way.In this video, Mandi Ellefson shares the agency positioning strategy that helped one firm move from stalled $30K deals to consistently closing $100K+ engagements — with the same clients.🎯 You’ll learn:1. Why smaller offers feel riskier than premium ones2. The #1 reason your “reasonable” price is still getting rejected3. How to reframe your services into strategic growth outcomes4. A client-tested approach to selling $100K+ projects with confidence5. What premium buyers actually look for before they say yes🚀 Want to Work With Hands-Off CEO?1/ Book a Free Strategy CallIf you’re ready to reposition your firm and start closing premium deals, let’s talk. 👉 handsoffceo.com/scale2/ Read the Book – *The Hands-Off CEOLearn the framework behind scaling premium consulting engagements — without doing it all yourself. 📘 handsoffceo.com/book3/ Download the Free Revenue Recovery MapUnlock hidden revenue in your firm and learn how to command premium fees without more complexity. 📄 handsoffceo.com/map📍 Chapters:00:00 - Intro: From $20K Grind to $100K+ Deals 00:38 - Shift #1: Own the Sales Process (Without Overexplaining) 01:27 - Shift #2: Reposition Around Results — Not Scope 02:18 - Shift #3: Speak to Bigger Problems 03:14 - Shift #4: Make Your Offer Obvious (and Premium) 04:30 - What Happens When You Shift All 4 05:02 - Want Help? Here’s Where to Start