Hiring the right people is one of the biggest challenges business owners and hiring managers face. The endless search for top talent and the time-consuming screening process can feel overwhelming—but what if there was a better way? Enter Discovered ATS, a game-changing SaaS solution designed for businesses of all sizes. Powered by AI, this innovative tool takes the hassle out of recruiting with features like candidate pool nurturing, automated interview scheduling, recruiting video production, and so much more. On this episode of CDG BizCast, we’re joined by Fletcher Wimbush, the visionary founder of Discovered ATS, to explore how this cutting-edge platform is revolutionizing the hiring process. Say goodbye to the struggles of traditional recruiting and hello to a smarter, faster, and easier way to build your dream team. Don’t miss this conversation! Check out Discovered ATS for yourself at https://www.discovered.ai
Not all lead magnets are created equal—some are good, but great lead magnets can transform your small business. The right lead magnet on your website and within your content strategy can attract more customers and grow your audience like never before. If you’re unsure what a lead magnet is or how to craft one that’s irresistible to your potential customers, this episode is a must-listen! Join marketing expert Sarah Noel Block, founder of Tiny Marketing, as she breaks down the secrets to creating lead magnets so compelling, they’re impossible to ignore. LEARN MORE ABOUT SARAH & TINY MARKETING: https://www.sarahnoelblock.com TAKE THE TINY MARKETING GATEWAY CHALLENGE: https://cfaa2127.streaklinks.com/COqDv2aJCQ5TRDrw2AHiMe4A/https%3A%2F%2Ftinymarketing.myflodesk.com%2Fchallenge CHECK OUT THE TINY MARKETING PODCAST (50% OFF WITH PROMO CODE: BIZCAST): https://tinymarketing.myflodesk.com/challenge FOLLOW SARAH & TINY MARKETING ON SOCIAL MEDIA: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahnoelblock/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sarahnoelblock/ X: https://twitter.com/sarahnoelblock YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCthKB_eYQBVeJ9NTiIq6Scg
Local photographer Aisha Khan has had an interest in the art since she was a child. But never once did she think that her interest would turn into an entrepreneurial journey making major breakthroughs in the industry, and ultimately becoming one of Houston's leading wedding photographers and videographers. Her firm, Ama by Aisha began in 2012 and has been featured in several magazines and won several awards for her outstanding work. In addition to starting a photography/cinema firm she is also the founder of Houston Warehouse Studios located at 1506 Lorraine Street (a building that is 100 years old!). "Houston Warehouse Studio focuses on providing a creative space for small businesses, innovators, and creators at competitive rates for all budgets." In this episode we discuss Aisha's entrepreneurial journey and how her passion for the art of photography has led her to becoming one of Houston's best photographers! Learn more about Ama by Aisha at: https://www.amabyaisha.com Learn more about Houston Warehouse Studios at: https://www.houstonwarehousestudios.com
We all know The Eighth Wonder of the World, or Houston's Astrodome! Once home to many events such as concerts, rodeos and sporting events, it has been closed and shuttered for many years and unfortunately falling into urban decay. In this episode, we are discussing the proposed Astrodome Revitalization Plan that was announced in early November by the Astrodome Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving the beloved structure from destruction. We will focus on how this plan could open many doors for entrepreneurs and small business owners and make stellar contributions to the economy of the Greater Houston area. Our United Kingdom panelist Sara Russell joins us to discuss, as a potential tourist to the Houston area how she feels about this plan and also discusses the UK's O2 Arena (formerly known as the Millenium Dome), a similar (but much newer) venue that once faced its own issues but was revitalized and reborn before it was too late.
In the second episode of CDG BizCast's Business Sins subseries, we discuss the importance of maintaining a friendly, professional, customer-focused composure when conducting business in any fashion. There is no room for being rude and disrespectful in the business world, and this is especially true if you are a business owner yourself. Christian and our United Kingdom panelist Sara Russell discuss some examples of rude customer service they have both received in the real world, and how they felt as customers, when treated in such a disgusting fashion. We share stories and tips over what business owners should do in the event they have to reprimand rude employees, and we also stress the importance of ensuring your place of business remains friendly and respectful. The customer has both the power to increase your business and cause it to boom! Conversely, the customer also has the power to put you out of business!
As an agency whose web design business is built solely on WordPress, we have been monitoring the ongoing dispute between WordPress/Automattic owner Matt Mullenweg and Austin-based hosting company WP Engine. Matt Mullenweg made disparaging comments about WP Engine back in mid-September 2024, which resulted in a cascade of unfortunate events such as WP Engine's customers' websites being blocked from the WordPress repository. Warren Laine-Naida of Germany-based Warren Laine-Naida Consulting joins us to discuss what is going on, how it is impacting the WordPress community, and what both clients and WordPress professionals should be doing to ensure business runs smoothly throughout the dispute. CHECK OUT WARREN LAINE-NAIDA'S BOOKS ON DIGITAL MARKETING SUCCESS: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09BDKM7YR CHECK OUT WARREN'S BOOK "SEO All You Need to Know: Get Yourself and Your Website Found! A 7-Step Beginner’s Guide to Basic Search Engine Optimisation" ON AMAZON: https://www.amazon.com/SEO-All-You-Need-Know-ebook/dp/B0B4YXHMJF LEARN MORE ABOUT WARREN LAINE-NAIDA AT: https://warrenlainenaida.net/online-marketing-books/
Is it your dream to one day leave traditional 9-5 work and enter the world of entrepreneurship? Maybe you are tired of dealing with things such as bully bosses, toxic coworkers, or the lack of morals at the company you currently work for. Many people do not even consider leaving their toxic workplaces due to complacency, which results in those people never living their dreams to start their own businesses. Julie Cropp Gareleck has seen it all in her career! After realizing that entrepreneurship was her calling, she traded in the 9-5 lifestyle for one full of great success as the CEO of her own company, Junction Creative Solutions of Atlanta, GA. Julie joins us in this episode to discuss the importance of making the transition from full-time employee to full-time business owner the correct way! It's not just simply quitting your job and selling your services. There is a lot of planning and preparation involved! Her new book, "Dare to Become: From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office" discusses her adventures throughout her career and how she was able to say goodbye forever to working for someone and start her own successful company! It is a must-read for all business owners and individuals who want to enter the wonderful world of entrepreneurship one day. ABOUT THE BOOK: Dare to Become: From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office is an inspiring narrative of entrepreneurial grit and determination. The book chronicles the journey of Julie Gareleck, who, without the safety net of venture capital or an Ivy League education, dared to dream and ultimately succeeded in establishing Junction Creative, one of the nation's leading marketing firms. Gareleck's humble beginnings in her parents' restaurant in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, laid the foundation for her understanding of business operations. Her experiences in the corporate world, marked by challenging bosses and complex dynamics, fueled her desire to create her own company. This candid account of her entrepreneurial journey offers invaluable insights into self-financing a start-up, salary considerations, hiring practices, and generational management differences. Dare to Become stands out among entrepreneurial literature, offering a unique, real-world perspective on navigating the tumultuous path to business success. Gareleck's story serves as a testament to the power of perseverance and a guide for those daring to chase their own entrepreneurial dreams. ABOUT THE AUTHOR Julie Cropp Gareleck, Best Selling Author, CEO, and Entrepreneur, is a well-respected leader in business communities that extends from the US, to Canada, and the United Kingdom. In her 25 years of experience, Julie has consulted with more than 1000 companies, including startups, midsize, and Fortune 1000 companies, to build sustainable, revenue generating strategies. In 2009, she founded Junction Creative, an award-winning strategic marketing agency, in 2009, combining the intellectual capital of a business consulting firm with the creative execution of an advertising agency. As the author of the Best Seller, Dare to Become, From the Corner Booth to the Corner Office, Julie shares the right blend of personal anecdotes and professional advice makes it a valuable read for those looking to gain insights into the entrepreneurial journey and the importance of resilience in achieving success. The book reached a #1 Ranking on Amazon and Barnes & Noble in the first week. For more information: www.juliecroppgareleck.com. BUY "DARE TO BECOME" TODAY AND LEARN HOW TO START YOUR JOURNEY INTO ENTREPRENEURSHIP CORRECTLY! Buy on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Dare-Become-Corner-Booth-Office/dp/1611884012 Buy on Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dare-to-become-julie-cropp-gareleck/1144498212 Buy directly from Julie's official website: https://juliecroppgareleck.com/shop/ SUBSCRIBE TO JULIE'S PODCAST "ASPIRE TO BE": https://www.youtube.com/@juliecgareleck/
Presenting is a major part of the business world. At one point or another, you may be faced with the task of presenting to large crowds either on behalf of your employer or for your own business. The majority of presentations fail for a variety of different reasons, which results in the audience feeling bored and no impact being made on them to take action. Don't let this happen to your presentation! Learn how to prepare a great presentation that will leave your audience wanting more and how to present with the utmost professionalism! Kris Flegg, founder of Australia's Presentation Design Co., a firm that specializes in preparing impactful presentations, joins us to discuss some tips on what you can do to knock your audience's socks off! We also discuss his new book, "The Presentation Playbook: Win the war for attention and make an impact." A must read for those who want to dominate every presentation they will ever hold! GET A FREE COPY OF "THE PRESENTATION PLAYBOOK": https://www.presentationdesign.co/store/p/the-presentation-playbook USE COUPON CODE: CDGBIZCAST CHECK OUT PRESENTATION DESIGN CO: https://www.presentationdesign.co Presentation Design Co. is a 2024 Australian Achiever® Award Winner for Excellence in Customer Service.
Do you struggle with time management as a business owner (or as anyone who is involved in the business world)? Then maybe you need a guide to help you keep track of your everyday tasks to make sure deadlines are being met and your life/work balance is in order. Managing time properly can be extremely daunting for many people, but it doesn't have to be. That is where Time Boss steps in, a framework built on several easy to implement habits to manage your time. Time Boss founder Andrew Hartman joins us today to discuss a few strategies to help you manage your time properly in order to reduce the stress and anxiety that comes with time management. He will also describe his journey as an entrepreneur that led him to form such a valuable company that the entire business world can greatly benefit from.
We debut our new subseries Business Sins by diving into the critical issue of pricing dishonesty. This episode unpacks the unethical practices of bait-and-switch tactics, price gouging, and deceptive marketing methods. We emphasize the damaging impact these practices can have on consumer trust and long-term business success. By exploring real-world examples and offering practical advice, we highlight the importance for business owners to steer clear of these "sins" and foster transparent, fair pricing strategies that build lasting customer relationships.
In this episode of CDG BizCast, we delve into the significant global repercussions of the CrowdStrike outage on July 19, 2024. Join us as we explore how this unexpected downtime disrupted businesses, governments, and cybersecurity operations worldwide. We'll also examine recent major cyberattacks, analyzing their impact and the lessons learned. Tune in for useful tips and discussions on the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats and the measures being taken to protect against them. CDG BizCast United Kingdom Consumer Panelist Sara Russell joins us to discuss. HORNET SECURITY'S CROWDSTRIKE BSOD RECOVERY: https://www.hornetsecurity.com/en/crowdstrike-bsod-recovery/
In this episode of CDG BizCast, we are joined by Jesse Tayler, a true pioneer in the world of digital innovation. Jesse takes us on a journey through his remarkable career, starting with his groundbreaking invention of the world's first app store, an idea he pitched to Steve Jobs in 1993. We delve into the origins of this revolutionary concept and its impact on the tech industry. Jesse also shares insights into his latest venture, TruAnon™, a cutting-edge platform designed to make profile fraud obsolete. As the founder and owner of TruAnon™, Jesse discusses the importance of digital authenticity and the innovative solutions his company offers to ensure online integrity. Throughout the episode, Jesse opens up about his background, the challenges he faced, and the lessons he learned along the way. He offers invaluable tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, drawing from his extensive experience in the tech industry. Join us for an inspiring and informative conversation with Jesse Tayler, and discover the stories behind two major career highlights that have shaped the digital landscape. LEARN MORE ABOUT MAKING PROFILE OBSOLETE WITH TRUANON™ https://www.truanon.com
Business owners, does your marketing strategy include making your customers feel special on their own special days? If your marketing strategy does not have any birthday marketing methods then you are leaving money on the table! There are many ways you can market your products and services to your customers who subscribe to your email lists and follow you on social media. But birthday marketing is a formidable way to generate more revenue as it has the best response rates among other methods. Because remembering your customers on their birthdays makes them feel like a valued customer and not just a number, you can feel reassured that you can earn their business on their special day of celebration. This is especially important for hospitality-based businesses! We cover some strategies to help you build a birthday marketing strategy. Sara Russell (whose birthday just passed on June 20th) joins us to discuss what happens when you fail to remember your subscribed customers on their birthdays!
Restauranteurs and other professionals in the hospitality industry, this episode is for you! Chef Michael Brown of Jamburritos joins us once again to discuss a topic that is near and dear to him, and that is Xtreme Hospitality! In the restaurant industry, it is important to always bring your A-Game when it comes to serving your customers. Everyone involved from the chefs to the servers should always strive to deliver a 5-star experience to every customer they serve, and every customer deserves an equally stellar experience. Michael discusses some tips on how you can take hospitality-industry customer service to the next level! First, there's hospitality and then there's XTREME Hospitality! Michael has an entire podcast dedicated to this topic, and we recommend that all industry professionals check it out! Living Xtreme Hospitality is the podcast for those who are serious about delivering top-notch service to their customers! LIVING XTREME HOSPITALITY PODCAST: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OmTquCqVo2E&list=PLdoN8dFKkIvruQOK2cQq8owYmT4-UUZNZ&ab_channel=JamburritosCajunGrillleExpress
Business owners, have you ever received a heart-stopping, threatening email from a stranger claiming that they hacked your website, stole all of its information and will use it against you by harassing all of your customers unless you pay a large amount in bitcoin? Consumers, have you ever received a similar email where they claim they have video of you doing something inappropriate and will share it with all of your friends and family unless you also pay in bitcoin? If you have, rest assured that there is nothing to worry about and they are all empty threats. These so-called "hackers" are full of hot air and are scammers trying to steal your money! Don't give them the time of day! We talk to @thesaraissimochronicles1656 to discuss these scams in detail with tips to help you stay safe. We share an example of one that we received here at CDG and one that Sara received as a consumer.
Pastor Steven Foster, owner of Next Steps LLC discusses the importance of putting God first during one's entrepreneurship journey. Pastor Steven shares his own personal testimony over how God helped him triumph over the darker times of his life and become a successful business owner making over six figures. It's not just about focusing on your business goals, it's about seeking the kingdom of God first in order to achieve said goals and focus on His Grace. It's not about "grinding" and trying to outdo everyone else, it's about following God's timing and His will!
Chef Michael Brown of Jamburritos joins us once again to discuss a major issue facing the restaurant industry: rising operating costs! From the rising minimum wage that was implemented in California to the cost of food rising due to inflation, we talk about how these things impact the consumer and what restaurants have to do to ensure they can deliver top-quality food without cutting corners to do so!
Stolen money! Recipe rights! A legal battle is heating up between the founders of Trill Burgers over these issues, a hotly popular burger joint headed up by rapper Bun B. We discuss the entire ordeal in detail to illustrate the dangers of going into business with multiple partners in the restaurant industry (or any industry in general). Chef and restauranteur extraordinaire Michael Brown joins us to discuss.
Today, we speak to the founder and CEO of StretchMed® Brian Cook to learn more about his passion for fitness and his experience as an entrepreneur leading him to form a strong brand that is rapidly growing. StretchMed® Studios are franchised by fierce business owners just like Brian who have a passion for fitness and bring their A-Game when it comes to serving clients. Because stretching has several benefits for the body such as improving posture, blood flow, energy, and decreasing muscle/joint pain, StretchMed® specializes in providing its clients exercises that will help them live better lives daily! LEARN MORE ABOUT STRETCHMED®: https://www.stretchmedstudios.com OWN A STRETCHMED® STUDIO: https://stretchmedstudios.com/own-a-stretchmed/
Many of you who use social media probably saw a huge rumor going around the Dr. Pepper, one of the most beloved soft drinks in the world, was going to be discontinued. Guess what? It was all a hoax started by someone on Tiktok and it went viral. In this episode, we discuss how both consumers and businesses should handle social media hoaxes like this. For consumers, we want to discuss the importance of doing your research before you possibly spreading disinformation. For businesses, we discuss what you can do if your company or any of its products, services or people become a victim of a viral rumor. @thesaraissimochronicles1656 joins us to discuss.