Idaho Business Podcast

AI is changing the game for small businesses—especially in places like Idaho where most owners are still trying to figure out how to use it. In this episode, we break down the exact prompts every Idaho business owner should be using to sharpen strategy, improve sales conversations, tighten operations, strengthen hiring, and free up more time. You'll learn how to use AI as a practical, everyday tool—not some techy fad—to write better messages, build systems, solve team issues, spot financial risks, and even balance your work and family life with more intention. If you've ever wished you had a consultant, strategist, or operations expert on call 24/7, this episode shows you how AI can fill that gap. One strong prompt at a time. Perfect for: • service companies • contractors • real estate pros • retail shops • restaurants • professional services • any Idaho entrepreneur who wants to run a tighter, more profitable business Listen in and start asking stronger questions—because strong questions build strong businesses.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

If your marketing is falling flat, this episode tells you exactly why — you're talking about yourself instead of speaking directly to the person you want to serve. In this straight-shooting breakdown, Spencer shows you how shifting from "we/our/my" language to "you/your" language instantly transforms the way your prospects see you. You'll learn how to identify your perfect prospect using the same framework taught by Mike Campion, including the exact demographic, psychographic, and behavior questions you should be asking (pulled straight from the Perfect Prospect Survey). You'll discover how to understand your prospect's real fears, frustrations, and desires so clearly that they feel like you're reading their mind — and why that's the key to creating marketing that actually converts. Spencer also shares how to build a powerful leave-behind piece that continues selling for you long after you walk out of the building. With insights from Russell Brunson, Alex Hormozi, and Michael Gerber woven in, this episode gives you the blueprint to reconnect your message to the person who matters most: your ideal buyer. If you've been throwing marketing darts blindfolded, this episode hands you the target — and the strategy to hit it every time.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode of The Idaho Business Podcast, Spencer sits down with Garrett Foster — a business builder, consultant, and founder of Prevail Legacy Builders — to talk about what it really takes to scale beyond self-employment. They unpack the transition from working in your business to working on it, the 80/20 rule of delegation, and why having the right people in the right seats can make or break your growth. Garrett shares his journey from the construction industry to providing fractional CFO, COO, and HR services that help entrepreneurs step out of the weeds and back into strategic leadership. Spencer and Garrett also dig into the personal side of scaling — the mental and emotional challenges, the importance of systems, and how adversity can actually make you a stronger, more intentional leader. If you're ready to grow a business that can thrive without you, this episode is packed with insight, experience, and practical tools to help you do just that.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Today on the Idaho Business Podcast, Spencer sits down with Seth Horst—realtor in beautiful Coeur d'Alene, retired California Highway Patrol officer turned Idaho convert, and host of the Idaho Experience podcast (and the North Idaho Experience YouTube channel). Seth shares how his team of former first responders and veterans grew by being unapologetically themselves, niching hard, and attracting clients who share their values. They dig into why culture beats everything, how clear core values filter both hires and clients, and why North Idaho's throwback, say-hi-to-strangers vibe makes community the real selling point. You'll hear how niching actually reduces marketing cost while increasing trust, why "all money is not good money," and what it takes to scale a team without losing your soul. Seth also talks community work—from long-form local conversations to a judicial watch effort—and why informed citizens keep Idaho, Idaho. Lightning Round: Seth's current read is Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell, and his "myth to bust" is that casting a wide net wins—it's the niche that wins. Sponsor Shoutouts: Health West — great people, great care, growing across Idaho. Look them up and see what they can do for your family. Nucleane Commercial Cleaning — From Twin Falls to Rexburg. Mention the podcast and claim a free one-time service (carpet clean, disinfecting fog, etc.)—no strings attached. Connect with Seth: Search NorthIdahoExperience.com and the North Idaho Experience on YouTube/podcast platforms.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode, Spencer sits down with Giuseppe Grammatico — "The Franchise Guide" — a franchise consultant who's helped over 1,000 corporate executives escape the grind and achieve financial and time freedom through smart franchise ownership. Giuseppe shares his journey from corporate mergers and layoffs to building a thriving business helping others do the same. Together, Spencer and Giuseppe talk about the real advantages of franchising — getting access to proven systems, built-in training, and support — all without having to reinvent the wheel. They break down common misconceptions about franchising (hint: it's not just fast food), and how executives can actually own a franchise while keeping their day job. If you've ever felt stuck in your corporate role, uncertain about your next move, or curious about owning a business with a playbook for success, this episode will open your eyes to what's possible. 👉 Learn more about Giuseppe at ggthefranchiseguide.com   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode, Spencer Ward breaks down why being the cheapest option in your market is actually the fastest way to go broke. Too many business owners start out thinking low prices will attract customers — but without knowing their numbers, they end up losing money on every job. Spencer uses a powerful boat analogy to explain how chasing cheap work is like drilling more holes in your boat instead of plugging the one that's already there. He shares insights from Mike Campion, Alex Hormozi, Tony Robbins, Patrick Bet-David, and Carl Allen — along with real-world lessons from over a decade of running profitable service companies across Idaho. If you want to build a business that lasts (and actually pays you), this episode will help you: ✅ Understand your numbers and cost per labor hour ✅ Stop competing on price and start competing on value ✅ Charge what you're worth and still grow your customer base ✅ Build a brand that's sustainable, not cheap   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode, Spencer Ward dives into one of the most important (and often overlooked) keys to building a successful business — employee systems and company culture. No matter what industry you're in, your people are your biggest asset… but only if they're bought in. Spencer breaks down: Why systems come before motivation How to build a culture that drives accountability The truth about employee buy-in (and why not everyone will buy in) How strong systems + strong culture = lower turnover and happier customers Featuring insights and quotes from Mike Campion, Jeremy Miner, Tony Robbins, Carl Allen, Alex Hormozi, and Patrick Bet-David, this episode gives real talk from a business owner who's in the trenches building teams and scaling service-based companies the right way. If you're serious about growing your business, improving retention, and building a team that actually cares — this one's for you.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Are you an all-or-nothing kind of person? When your diet, routine, and focus are locked in, everything in life just clicks — but when you fall off, it feels like the wheels come off too? In this episode, Spencer Ward breaks down what it means to create an environment of success — one that helps you thrive personally, professionally, and spiritually. He shares how small environmental changes can completely transform your productivity, mindset, and relationships. Whether you're a business owner, parent, or leader trying to find rhythm again, this episode will help you design the systems that keep you at your best. Featuring quotes from Aubrey Marcus (Own the Day, Own Your Life), Tony Robbins, James Clear, and Jim Rohn, Spencer connects real-life discipline to practical business success — Idaho style.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Once your business passes the million-dollar mark, doing everything yourself becomes the biggest liability in your company. In this episode, Spencer Ward breaks down why SOPs are the backbone of scalable growth, why letting go of control is the key to freedom, and how to build a business that can run — and sell — without you. Featuring insights from Carl Allen, Nick Bradley (Scale Up Podcast), and Alex Hormozi.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Do you ever feel like no matter what you accomplish, it's never enough? You're not alone. In this episode, I talk about fighting through that inner critic—the voice that says you should've done more, faster, or better. We'll dig into how comparison steals joy, why defining winning across all areas of life matters, and how gratitude helps us see the progress we're actually making. With insights from Ed Mylett, Patrick Bet-David, and Alex Hormozi, you'll walk away with a new perspective on what it really means to win.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube  

In this episode of The Idaho Business Podcast, I sit down with Keshia Polatis, owner of One Beat Wellness in Blackfoot, Idaho. We dive into the importance of maintaining mental clarity and positivity—not just in life, but especially while running a business. Keshia shares how surrounding yourself with positive people and influences can help you reach your full potential. We also explore how yoga and breath work can become powerful tools for grounding, focus, and resilience in the face of everyday challenges. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or just someone looking to create more balance, this conversation is packed with practical insights on aligning your mindset with your goals.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

How many times have you set ambitious goals in January—only to realize by December that they never left the paper? In this episode of the Idaho Business Podcast, Spencer dives into the powerful framework from The 12 Week Year by Brian Moran and Michael Lennington. You'll learn why breaking your goals into 12-week "years" creates urgency, focus, and accountability. Spencer explains how simple tracking sheets can transform both personal and team performance—and why hitting even 85% of your weekly actions leads to excellence. From sales teams closing more deals to service companies improving customer retention, you'll hear practical examples of how this system works in the real world. As Peter Drucker famously said, "What gets measured gets managed." If you're tired of watching your goals slip away year after year, this episode will give you the tools and mindset to finally execute with discipline and consistency.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode of the Idaho Business Podcast, Spencer unpacks the timeless principle of under-promising and over-delivering. From car detailers and roofers to bankers and janitorial companies, too many businesses fall into the trap of overpromising results—and losing trust when reality doesn't measure up. Spencer shares real-world stories (including one costly lesson of his own) and insights from leaders like Warren Buffett, Jeff Bezos, Patrick Bet-David, and Ed Mylett on how proper expectation-setting creates long-term loyalty, higher customer satisfaction, and stronger business relationships. If you want customers who stick around for years—not months—this episode is a must-listen.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

What really drives you once the bills are paid and the money's flowing? For many entrepreneurs, the hunger changes—but it never goes away. In this episode, Spencer Ward explores what keeps us pushing forward after financial security, why the thrill of the deal can be as addicting as the profit, and how to channel that drive into other areas of life like family, fitness, and legacy. Featuring insights from Ed Mylett and Patrick Bet-David, this conversation challenges you to ask: What fuels you now—and what will fuel you when business slows down or retirement is on the horizon?   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

This week my boys started tackle football, and I watched them grind through brutal conditioning drills. My daughters do the same in gymnastics—building muscle, endurance, and focus just to compete. So why do we think business should be any different? In this episode, I break down why conditioning your mind and skills is just as critical in business as it is in sports. Whether it's mastering sales conversations, tightening up your craft, or putting in the reps on leadership, those "extra laps" may be the difference between running a 6-figure hustle or building a 7-figure business.     If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

23 miles. 3,400 vertical feet. 2.5 days. And a group of tired but determined hikers who proved you can accomplish way more in less time than you think. In this episode, I share the lessons from a recent hike I took with my sons and some young men from church—and how they apply directly to business. Too often, we drag out goals that could be knocked out in 30 minutes, or we set annual targets that let us procrastinate until Q4. I'll show you how to speed up your results, set tighter deadlines, and move the needle faster in your business and life. Along the way, I'll pull in wisdom from Patrick Bet-David and The E-Myth to help you shift from slow and safe to fast and focused.     If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Inspired by the true story behind Flamin' Hot, this episode is a reminder that success doesn't come from where you start — but from how hard you push when things get tough. Spencer shares how Richard Montañez, once told he'd be nothing more than a janitor, turned a bold idea into a billion-dollar snack. If you're tired, discouraged, or doubting yourself, this is your 15-minute shot of motivation.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

In this episode, Spencer shares a high-pressure experience from a 300-degree tactical simulator that revealed a powerful lesson for business owners: when the heat is on, trust your training and take action. Too often, we let old, half-true stories from our past keep us stuck and second-guessing. Inspired by Ed Mylett's message about mindset and momentum, Spencer breaks down how to stop living in rewind, raise your internal thermostat, and make bold moves with confidence. If you've been hesitating on a decision in your business, this episode is your wake-up call.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

Real leadership isn't about sending polite emails and playing it safe. It's about stepping into tough conversations, making the hard calls, and growing stronger through it all. In this episode, we talk about how doing hard things builds your leadership muscles — and how avoiding them breaks your credibility. Featuring insights from Patrick Bet-David, Ed Mylett, Phil Knight, and Alex Hormozi.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube

If you've been sitting in the same place, wondering why you're stuck… this episode is for you. We're talking about the mindset that keeps business owners playing small  and how to break out of it by investing in yourself. Because the only thing stopping you… is you. Featuring insights from Patrick Bet-David and Alex Hormozi.   If you are feeling the love, make sure to subscribe, rate, and review on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, or wherever you are!! If you'd like to be featured on an episode go to theidahobusinesspodcast.com to APPLY! Apple Podcasts Spotify YouTube