Frugalpreneur: Building a Business on a Bootstrapped Budget

💡 Guest bioMickie Kennedy stumbled into the world of PR and marketing while finishing up a poetry degree 27 years ago. After realizing that waiting tables and writing poetry was not sustainable, he transitioned into PR and founded eReleases, a PR service that helps businesses get their news to the media. His background in writing and creativity has helped him succeed in the PR world, and he continues to help businesses share their stories with the world.ℹ️ IntroductionWelcome to another episode of Frugalpreneur, where we uncover cost-effective strategies for entrepreneurs and small businesses to thrive. In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Mickie Kennedy, the expert behind ereleases, about the power of strategic press releases. Mickie emphasizes the importance of incorporating AI into workflow to stay competitive in the job market and shares invaluable PR tactics, including the success of curated press releases and personal storytelling. He also offers an hour-long masterclass on strategic releases and highlights the cost-effectiveness of 6 to 8 press releases compared to hiring a PR firm. Get ready to learn how to harness the impact of press releases without breaking the bank in this insightful conversation with Mickie Kennedy.📚 Timestamped overview00:00 Journalists write varied stories with data analysis.04:55 Launched small business-focused PR service in 1998.08:57 Journalists find 3rd Newswire too time-consuming.11:06 Press releases syndication for website logo display.13:02 Earned media drives emotional response and trust.18:21 Incorporate personal stories into press release content.19:57 Entrepreneurs thrive on unique selling propositions.24:49 Request 100 responses, showcase on website.26:15 Knowing AI is crucial for future job success.29:03 Curated content is effective for website incorporation.32:05 Media coverage boosted pandemic restaurant support initiative.36:00 Positive impact of product on company's profits.39:09 Few news outlets afford lengthy, award-winning articles.41:40 Avoid clipping services, instead monitor using Google.44:50 Cost-effective social media promotion and special rates.❇️ Key topics and bulletsImportance of AI in Workflow and Future Job Market- Incorporating AI into workflow to stay competitive in the future job marketStrategic Press Releases- The importance of strategic press releases despite the high failure rate- A free hour-long masterclass on strategic releases at ereleases.com/plan- Utilizing top 10 or 20 lists of podcasts as a PR tactic- Predictions and curated press releases involving multiple industry perspectives- The success of a PR initiative for the dining bond during the pandemicEffective PR Strategies for Podcasts- Using ereleases for moving features over their network- Avoiding copycat press release strategies- Personal storytelling as an effective PR strategy for podcasters- Highlighting unique selling propositions for startups- Conducting surveys for statistical relevance and press release recognitionCrafting Compelling Press Releases- Effective distribution strategies for press releases- Utilizing use case studies and statistics to engage journalists- Tracking media coverage through Google news and web searches- Discouraging the use of clipping services and recommending efficient tracking methodsMickie Kennedy’s Journey in PR and ereleases- How Mickey Kennedy entered the PR industry - The inception and growth of ereleases- The importance of storytelling in press releases- Recommendations on press...

Guest BioSteve Wallace is a seasoned sales professional and Chief Revenue Officer at Maverick App. With a background in insurance sales and a knack for outbound prospecting, Steve has honed his skills in building a book of business from scratch. Today, he focuses on training other sales agents and elevating their careers through effective business development strategies.Episode OverviewAre you ready to take your sales game to the next level? In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Steve Wallace, a bootstrapped entrepreneur who has successfully built his business from scratch and climbed the ranks to become a Chief Revenue Officer.Steve shares his journey, the challenges he faced, and the tools and strategies that helped him succeed. From mastering outbound prospecting to leveraging free and inexpensive tools like Calendly and LinkedIn Sales Navigator, Steve's story is packed with actionable insights that you can apply to your own business.One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of reinvesting in your business. Steve consistently allocated 3-10% of his gross revenue towards business development, allowing him to gradually upgrade his tools and systems for better efficiency and productivity.Don't miss out on these valuable insights. Listen to the full episode now and discover how you can implement these strategies to grow your business.Episode Highlights:1. The Challenge of Churning:Steve explains the concept of churning in the insurance industry and why it’s essential to avoid it. Learn how he navigated this challenge and built a new book of business from scratch.2. Becoming a Prospecting Monster:Discover how Steve became an expert in outbound prospecting and the importance of combining quality, consistency, and persistency to find clients.3. Leveraging Free and Inexpensive Tools:Steve shares his journey from using free tools like Calendly to investing in paid versions and other business development tools like LinkedIn Sales Navigator and Maverick App. Understand the importance of allocating a percentage of your revenue towards business development.4. Transition to Training:After achieving success in sales, Steve felt the entrepreneurial itch and transitioned to training other agents. Learn about his role as Chief Revenue Officer at Maverick App and how he helps elevate other sales professionals.Key Takeaways:1. Avoid Churning: Understand the pitfalls of churning and why building a new book of business is essential for long-term success.2. Invest in Tools: Utilize free and inexpensive tools initially, but be prepared to invest in more advanced tools as your business grows.3. Allocate Revenue for Growth: Dedicate 3-10% of your gross revenue towards business development to ensure continuous growth and improvement.4. Training and Mentorship: The value of training and mentoring others in your industry can lead to new opportunities and professional growthResourceshttps://maverickapp.io/Follow the Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/Sponsor Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/p/sponsor-the-show/Leave a Message for the Show

💬 Show NotesGuest BioMarcus Higgs is a former high school English teacher turned transformational coach. With a background in teaching across South Korea, Spain, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia, Marcus brings a wealth of experience in education and personal development. Now based in the Bahamas, Marcus focuses on empowering parents to connect with their preteens during critical developmental stages to foster a strong sense of identity and resilience in the digital age.Episode Highlights:1. From Classroom to Coaching:Marcus shares their journey from being a high school teacher to becoming a transformational coach. Learn how their international teaching experience shaped their approach to personal development and why they decided to focus on working with parents and preteens.2. The Importance of Parental Support:Inspired by Mister Rogers' philosophy, Marcus emphasizes the crucial role parents play in their children's development. Discover how empowering parents can transform the lives of preteens, especially during the pivotal stage of identity formation.3. Bootstrapping the Business:Marcus discusses the challenges and strategies of bootstrapping their coaching business. From creating content to leveraging virtual assistants and amplifying their message through podcasts, get practical tips on how to grow a business on a budget.4. Finding Your Tribe:One of Marcus' biggest successes is finding a community of like-minded entrepreneurs. Learn how surrounding yourself with people who share your values and goals can provide momentum and support in your entrepreneurial journey.5. Leveraging Technology:Explore how Marcus utilizes tools like ChatGPT and UpCoach to streamline their workflow, create compelling content, and repurpose it across different channels. Understand the importance of automation and efficiency in maintaining a consistent online presence.6. Workshops for Parents:Marcus introduces two upcoming workshops aimed at helping parents navigate the challenges of raising preteens in the digital age. The workshops focus on mapping family virtues and values and nurturing preteens' potential amidst technological distractions.Key Takeaways:Empowerment Through Education: Marcus' journey highlights the importance of continuous learning and adapting your skills to new ventures.Community Support: Building a network of supportive peers can significantly impact your business's success and provide valuable insights and encouragement.Utilize Technology: Leveraging tools and automation can help streamline your business processes and amplify your message effectively.OverviewIn our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with a former high school English language arts teacher who has a wealth of experience teaching 9th and 12th graders in diverse locations such as South Korea, Spain, Thailand, and Saudi Arabia. This episode is a treasure trove of insights into transformational coaching, the importance of parent-child communication, and the entrepreneurial journey of bootstrapping a business.Our guest shared their journey of transitioning from the classroom to becoming a transformational coach, driven by the desire to support their aging parents in the Bahamas while continuing to help children. Inspired by the wisdom of Mister Rogers, who famously said, "If you want to help the kids, support the parents," our guest decided to focus on personal development for parents. This approach leverages the developmental stage of their preteen children to instill empowering stories of identity before the influence of social media takes hold.One of the key takeaways from this episode is the importance of communication between parents and their children. Our guest emphasizes that the preteen years...

💬 Show NotesAbout Stuart MorrisStuart Morris is a neurodivergent serial entrepreneur, tech inventor, TEDx speaker, and the CEO of the world's leading celebrancy training business. Stuart's journey from a disruptive school kid to a successful entrepreneur is nothing short of inspiring. He has a knack for turning challenges into opportunities and has built multiple successful businesses, including a celebrancy training company that has revolutionized the way people experience weddings and funerals.About the EpisodeJoin us as we delve into the fascinating world of celebrancy with Stuart Morris. Discover what it means to be a celebrant and how Stuart's company is transforming the industry by training individuals to create truly memorable ceremonies. Stuart shares his entrepreneurial journey, from his early struggles with ADHD, dyslexia, and autism to building a thriving business empire. Learn how he turned a health setback into an opportunity to start a new venture and why he believes in building businesses that serve both personal dreams and community needs.We also explore the challenges and rewards of being a neurodivergent entrepreneur. Stuart offers invaluable insights into managing a team, the importance of hiring complementary skills, and the delicate balance of relinquishing control to foster business growth. His story is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of a positive attitude.🎧 What You'll Learn:1. **The Role of a Celebrant**: Understand the difference between a celebrant and an officiant, and how celebrancy can make ceremonies more personal and meaningful.2. **Entrepreneurial Journey**: Follow Stuart's path from tech industry layoffs to building a successful celebrancy training business.3. **Neurodivergent Challenges**: Gain insights into the unique challenges and strengths of neurodivergent entrepreneurs.4. **Team Building**: Learn the importance of hiring people who complement your skills and the art of relinquishing control for business growth.5. **Legacy and Impact**: Discover how Stuart's business is making a significant impact on people's lives through better funeral and wedding experiences.6. **Personal Resilience**: Hear Stuart's incredible story of surviving a severe neck injury and how it shaped his outlook on life and business.Resourcesoneinamillionlife.com/frugalFollow the Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/Sponsor Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/p/sponsor-the-show/Leave a Message for the Showhttps://podinbox.com/frugalpreneurGrab Your Free E-Books:https://www.ampmypod.com/freebookJoin the Free Community:https://www.skool.com/ampmypodGet Your Podcast Audited:https://www.ampmypod.com/audit

Guest BioA former educator and now entrepreneur, Alisa is on a mission to help self-employed individuals and small business owners unlock substantial financial relief through the Self-Employed Tax Credit (SETC) program. You deserve to know how you can claim up to $32,220 in tax credits from 2020 and 2021.Episode Highlights:1. From the Classroom to the Business World:Our guest shares their inspiring journey from the education sector to the entrepreneurial world. Frustrated by the limitations and red tape of the school system, they decided to take control of their destiny and make a difference in their community on their own terms. Starting with a successful tutoring company, they built a business from scratch and eventually sold it to explore new ventures.2. The Airbnb Adventure:After the success of the tutoring business, our guest ventured into the Airbnb market. This new chapter in their entrepreneurial journey provided valuable lessons in adaptability and customer service. The flexibility of managing Airbnb properties allowed them to retire early and relocate to Mexico, where they continued to pursue their passion for entrepreneurship.3. Mastering Marketing:With a wealth of experience under their belt, our guest found their true calling in marketing. By helping small businesses grow, they leveraged their skills and knowledge to make a significant impact. The episode delves into the nitty-gritty of bootstrapping a marketing business, from manually scraping contact lists to leveraging networking and freelance platforms like Fiverr and Upwork.4. The Power of the Self-Employment Tax Credit:One of the game-changing insights shared in this episode is the discovery of the self-employment tax credit. This often-overlooked funding resource can provide a much-needed financial boost for small business owners. Our guest explains how they utilized this credit to reinvest in their ventures, significantly enhancing their business's growth and capacity.Key Takeaways:Embrace Constraints as Opportunities: Our guest's journey exemplifies how constraints can be turned into stepping stones for success. By embracing challenges and thinking creatively, they were able to build multiple successful businesses.The Importance of Networking: From attending events to leveraging freelance platforms, networking played a crucial role in their entrepreneurial journey. Building a solid network opened doors to new opportunities and long-lasting client relationships.Utilize Available Resources: The self-employment tax credit is a valuable resource that many entrepreneurs overlook. Understanding and leveraging such resources can provide a significant financial boost and help reinvest in your business.Resourcesmygovrefunds.comFollow the Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/Sponsor Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/p/sponsor-the-show/Leave a Message for the Showhttps://podinbox.com/frugalpreneurGrab Your Free E-Books:https://www.ampmypod.com/freebookJoin the Free Community:

💡 Summary: Our guest, a seasoned entrepreneur with 20+ years of self-employment, shares invaluable lessons on financial planning and asset management, particularly for women business owners. Discover how they used personal savings and a home equity loan to get started!💬 Key Takeaway: Minimizing overhead and avoiding unnecessary debt are crucial strategies for any startup. Learn how our guest kept costs low and maximized efficiency, leading to a successful bootstrap business.🚀 Chapter Highlights:- Overcoming challenges of using personal savings & home equity loans- The importance of credible mentorship- The pitfalls of ineffective DIY training programs- Strategies for frugal spending & financial planning 🏠 Bootstrapping Tips:- Keep overhead low: Work from home, avoid unnecessary expenses- Avoid debt: Personal savings > loans to reduce stress- Bartering: Trade skills/services to keep costs down 💼 Lessons Learned:- Mistakes: Investing too much in ineffective DIY training programs- Successes: Low overhead, strategic spending, and reinvesting profits back into the business📈 Expert Advice: Build up cash reserves before starting a business. Think like a squirrel with your money! And always be discerning about where you invest your funds. 🤝 Mentorship Matters: Finding a credible mentor or coach early on can shorten your learning curve and significantly impact your business’s success. Do your homework and ensure they have good testimonials!🌟 Free Resources: Visit wealthcoachforwomen.com/pod for a package of tools to help in your business journey. Plus, schedule a free 30-minute consultation for personalized advice!🎧 Listen Now: Tune into this episode packed with practical advice, real-world experiences, and actionable insights to help you grow your own bootstrap business. Don’t miss it! #Entrepreneurship #BusinessTips #FrugalpreneurHighlight Timestamps(00:35 - 01:29) Entrepreneur's Journey to Financial Planning(05:18 - 05:50) The Importance of Business MentorsFollow the Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/Sponsor Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/p/sponsor-the-show/Leave a Message for the Showhttps://podinbox.com/frugalpreneurGrab Your Free E-Books:https://www.ampmypod.com/freebookJoin the Free Community:https://www.skool.com/ampmypodGet Your Podcast Audited:https://www.ampmypod.com/audit

About Justin HanoverFrom launching my own gym business at the age of 19 to scaling it into a thriving 6,000 square foot facility with over 300 active members and an accomplished team of 8 members, my journey in the fitness industry has been one of relentless growth and innovation.Driven by a commitment to excellence, I've honed my skills not only in gym management but also in business coaching and marketing strategy. My podcast on business coaching soared to the top 3% globally, providing invaluable insights to aspiring entrepreneurs and established business owners alike.With a background in outbound marketing, I've specialized in building and coaching teams to implement highly effective outbound systems, particularly on LinkedIn and email platforms. My expertise lies in harnessing the power of these channels to drive client acquisition, engagement, and revenue growth.Currently, I'm privileged to lead client success and business development efforts at Fitness Revolution, a leading coaching and consulting agency dedicated to empowering fitness business owners to achieve their fullest potential. Through strategic guidance, tailored coaching, and innovative solutions, we're revolutionizing the fitness industry one business at a timeAbout the EpisodeWhat if you could transform your passion into a thriving business by the age of 19? Join us as we sit down with Justin Hanover, an entrepreneur who successfully navigated his way from a mobile personal training service to owning his own gym. Justin shares his inspiring story of perseverance and strategic thinking. We unpack key outbound marketing strategies like social media, email, cold calling, and direct mailing that played a crucial role in his journey to success.But that's not all! We uncover the art of personalized marketing and building genuine relationships that don’t come off as overly salesy. Learn from real-life examples, including an SEO client who uses curiosity-driven questions to engage potential customers. We stress the balance between consistency and volume in outreach efforts, and how businesses with a relatable human front can make a significant impact. Discover the realities of social media reach and the strategic use of paid promotions to effectively engage your target market.Lastly, we dive into the challenges of marketing on social platforms and the importance of driving traffic to your own website. With social media ads becoming increasingly inefficient and expensive, we explore creative strategies to capture attention and engage potential customers. Drawing inspiration from marketing legends like PT Barnum, we emphasize the need to grab attention before winning over customers. Whether you’re in the fitness industry or another field, this episode is packed with actionable insights and resources to help you grow your business. Connect with Justin Hanover for more in-depth discussions and personal engagement tips.🎧 What You'll Learn:1. **Mindset and Perseverance**: Discover the mindset shifts and perseverance that propelled Justin forward in his journey.2. **Outbound Marketing Strategies**: Learn how to effectively use social media, email, cold calling, and direct mailing to build brand awareness and attract new clients.3. **Personalized Marketing**: Understand the importance of building genuine connections without being overly salesy.4. **Challenges and Solutions**: Navigate the complexities of marketing on social platforms and the importance of driving traffic to your own website.5. **Creative Approaches**: Draw inspiration from marketing legends like PT Barnum and learn creative tactics to capture attention and win over customers.6. **Trends and Resources**: Stay ahead of the curve with the latest marketing trends in the fitness industry, featuring valuable resources and tips from Fitness...

💬 Show NotesIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, host Sarah St. John dives deep into the world of podcast post-production with special guests Steve Stewart and Lance. Together, they explore the nuances of editing, the tools of the trade, and the balance between professional polish and authentic content. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting, this episode is packed with insights and tips to elevate your podcasting game.Steve Stewart, a podcast editor with years of experience, shares his journey from using Audacity for vinyl records to becoming a professional podcast editor. He emphasizes the importance of mastering your DAW (Digital Audio Workstation) and shares why he still prefers Audacity for its simplicity and efficiency. Sarah and Steve discuss the pros and cons of different DAWs, including Descript, and how new tools are reshaping the podcasting landscape.Lance joins the conversation, bringing a fresh perspective on using podcasts as a business development tool. He shares his experience working with a full-time editor and the challenges of balancing high production value with content authenticity. The trio discusses the importance of post-production, the impact of AI tools, and the fine line between over-editing and maintaining a natural flow.Throughout the episode, you'll discover practical tips for improving your podcast's audio quality, the benefits of using multiple monitors for editing, and the game-changing potential of AI-driven tools like Descript's Studio Sound and Overdub. Whether you're looking to streamline your editing process or enhance your podcast's production value, this episode offers valuable insights to help you achieve your goals.(00:00) Welcome, Steve Stewart. Thanks for coming on. And thank you for spelling your name right(00:22) Sarah: What tools do you use for podcast post production(05:21) When I listen to podcasts, I love when there's a great intro(06:27) Steve and Sarah weigh in on whether podcasting needs some dressing up(07:14) Most podcasts are interview based, if not co host and conversation based(09:05) It's really about the audience and what are they coming for(15:56) Sometimes the word like is used as a descriptive word, and it needs to stay(16:28) A PR firm used AI to build articles for one of their clients(22:24) Robin Williams made jokes on the fly; you can't edit that(22:59) Steve and Sarah share their favorite tools for post production(26:08) An AI in the background learns people's voice and then recreates it(31:54) Audition is the number one daw of professional podcast(38:36) Steve: I'm not editing every second of the video. I'm doing the camera switching(39:57) When we talk about post production, number one thing we got to do is volume levels(42:31) Steve: I think AI tools can help, but it still needs humans(47:51) Using keyboard shortcuts can speed up your editing workflow significantly(53:44) All right, well, awesome. Really a pleasure to jump on the call and chat with everybodyAre you ready to take your podcast to the next level? In our latest episode, we dive deep into the world of podcast post-production with industry experts Steve Stewart and Lance Le Fort. Whether you're a seasoned podcaster or just starting out, this episode is packed with valuable insights and tips to help you refine your podcasting process.We kick off the episode by discussing the importance of choosing the right digital audio workstation (DAW). Steve Stewart, a veteran in the podcasting world, shares his journey with Audacity, a free and open-source DAW that he has used since its early days. He explains how familiarity and proficiency with a tool can significantly impact your workflow and efficiency. Sarah, our host, contrasts this with her experience using Descript, a newer tool that offers unique

💬 Show NotesIn this special episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, host Sarah St. John shares an insightful guest expert talk from her Ampmypod community. This time, we welcome Seth Silvers, founder and lead strategist at Story On Media, who delves into the intricacies of podcast ROI (Return on Investment). Seth’s discussion is a must-listen for podcasters aiming to grow, market, and monetize their shows effectively.Seth emphasizes the significance of understanding and measuring ROI over a 24-month timeline, urging podcasters to shift their mindset from short-term gains to long-term success. He introduces the Story On framework, a four-step process designed to ensure a podcast’s foundation is solid and geared towards achieving ROI. This framework includes defining your audience, identifying their problems, creating compelling content, and having a clear offer.Throughout the talk, Seth provides actionable insights and strategies for podcasters to build a sustainable and profitable show. He highlights the importance of dynamic ad insertion for offers, the necessity of having a well-defined audience, and the value of creating content that directly addresses the problems of that audience. Seth also discusses different types of offers and how to ensure they are compelling and valuable to listeners.(00:00) Frugalpreneur podcast features guest expert talks from Ampmypod(00:34) Sarah: If you have questions, feel free to reach out to me(01:06) Today we are going to talk about the Roi of podcasting(01:50) Seth Silvers is the founder and lead strategist at Ah story on media(03:28) What makes a podcast worth it 24 months from now(05:11) In order for your podcast to be worth it, you have to have ROI(06:38) You have to have a clear path to monetize or bring revenue into the show(07:27) If you don't have a solid foundation to your show,(08:22) So the first element of this foundation is to have a defined audience(08:55) You have to have a defined audience when you're creating content(13:45) The third piece of this framework, after your audience and their problems, comes content(15:59) One thing that I've seen a lot of podcasts do poorly is offer(19:00) Most podcast hosts now do some form of dynamic ad insertion(23:37) A really good podcast will not fix a broken business(25:42) Sarah: I think before dynamic ad insertion was really a thing(27:32) A lot of shows offers are not seeing traction because their audience isn't focused(32:44) I think private RSS feeds can work really well, assuming you're delivering quality content(40:28) Do you know of any, um, private RSS feeds that have community features(47:11) Tim Ferriss just crossed a billion downloads, which is wildIn the ever-evolving world of podcasting, many creators find themselves grappling with the question of ROI—Return on Investment. Why do some podcasts thrive while others falter? In a recent episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, host Sarah St. John welcomed Seth Silvers, founder and lead strategist at Story On Media, to delve into this very topic. Seth Silvers brings a wealth of knowledge to the table, particularly when it comes to helping businesses leverage podcasting for growth. He emphasizes that understanding and achieving ROI in podcasting isn't just about looking at short-term gains. Instead, it requires a strategic long-term approach.The 24-Month MindsetOne of the most striking points Seth makes is the importance of adopting a 24-month mindset. He suggests that podcasters should look at ROI over a two-year period rather than focusing on immediate results. This long-term perspective allows podcasters to build a solid foundation and make meaningful adjustments along the way.The Story On FrameworkSeth introduces his Story On...

Join me, Sarah St John, as I sit down with Kimberly Spencer, CEO of Communication Queens and founder of CrownYourself.com, to explore her remarkable entrepreneurial journey. From her early days running a Pilates studio in LA to her success in screenwriting and her shift to e-commerce consulting, Kimberly shares the highs and lows of her career. Discover how a challenging business buyout led to the birth of Crown Yourself, and how overcoming mindset blocks and the experience of her first pregnancy helped her scale her company to a multi-six-figure business. Hear how being stranded in Australia during the pandemic inspired a strategic pivot to focus on podcast guesting, transforming it into a major revenue stream.In our discussion, we unpack the significant benefits and strategies of podcast guesting. Kimberly highlights the importance of a diverse personal story and hobbies to captivate podcast audiences, as well as the strategic advantages podcast guesting can offer for business growth. Learn how delivering valuable content can build trust with potential clients, improving conversion rates and creating lasting business relationships. We also share real-life examples illustrating how even a single podcast appearance can open doors to multiple opportunities.Listen in as we explore the best practices for podcast guesting, focusing on targeting the right audience and understanding the client's lifecycle. Discover essential criteria for selecting the right podcasts, how to avoid free coaching traps, and crafting effective pitches that respect the podcast host's audience. We also discuss the art of building relationships through podcast guesting, including tailored messages for different audiences, practical follow-up tips, and creating impactful calls to action. Finally, Kimberly shares insights on mastering TED Talk presentations through storytelling and how to leverage these skills for powerful podcast guest appearances. Don't miss out on these valuable nuggets of wisdom to elevate your personal and professional life.Timestamps(05:47 - 06:45) Podcast Agency Growth and Strategy(12:39 - 14:32) The Power of Podcast Guesting(17:27 - 18:21) Brendan Burchard and Tony Robbins(22:13 - 23:48) Podcast Marketing Strategy Discussion(28:09 - 28:28) Podcast Interview Etiquette(30:31 - 31:27) Building Real Relationships in Business(33:19 - 33:59) Crafting Compelling Podcast Bio Stories(42:34 - 44:26) Creating a High-Value Podcast ProjectResourcesCommunicationQueens.comCrownYourself.comTedX TalkFollow the Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/Sponsor Frugalpreneur:https://www.frugal.show/p/sponsor-the-show/Leave a Message for the Showhttps://podinbox.com/frugalpreneurGrab Your Free E-Books:https://www.ampmypod.com/freebookJoin the Free Community:https://www.skool.com/ampmypodGet...

IntroductionIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur Podcast, host Sarah St John interviews Marty Fahncke, a seasoned entrepreneur who specializes in bootstrapping businesses through strategic acquisitions. With 25 years of experience, Marty has focused the last five years on growing businesses by acquiring others, using equity instead of cash to conserve resources and align with entrepreneurial-minded partners. Despite facing some failures, Marty emphasizes learning from these experiences and continues to advocate for acquisition as a low-risk, high-reward strategy to rapidly scale a business. He also introduces the Acquisitions Alliance, a program offering guidance on business growth through acquisitions, and invites listeners to connect on LinkedIn for further insights.Key PointsMarty's journey as a bootstrapped entrepreneurUsing acquisitions to grow and scale a businessStrategic approach to bootstrapping using equity instead of cashImportance of having an entrepreneurial team with aligned goalsSuccessful deals and substantial business growth through strategic acquisitionsLearning from both successes and failures in businessAcquiring a similar business to instantly double or triple business sizePrograms like those offered by the Small Business Administration for business acquisitionsOpportunities for growing businesses through strategic acquisitionsAcquisitions Alliance membership program for guidance on growing businesses through acquisitionsTimestampsGetting Started (00:00:35)Marty's accidental business start and journey into mergers and acquisitions.Strategic Bootstrapping (00:01:13)Using equity strategically, forming alliances, and building an entrepreneurial team to bootstrap the business.Successes and Failures (00:03:26)Sharing experiences of successful deals and failures in the business journey.Tactics for Growth (00:04:17)Acquiring similar businesses to instantly double or triple the business, and accessing programs for no-money-down acquisitions.Invitation to Learn More (00:06:09)Inviting listeners to explore the Acquisitions Alliance membership program and connect on LinkedIn for more knowledge-sharing.OverviewThe Art of Bootstrapping: Leveraging Acquisitions for Business GrowthAs the host of the Frugalpreneur Podcast, I've had the privilege of speaking with some of the most innovative and resourceful entrepreneurs out there. In a recent episode, I sat down with Marty Fahncke, a seasoned bootstrapped entrepreneur whose insights into business growth through acquisitions are nothing short of revolutionary. In this blog post, I'll share the key lessons and strategies from our conversation that can help any entrepreneur maximize their business's value.Starting with Strategic AcquisitionsMarty's journey began in the mergers and acquisitions field over two decades ago, but it was only five years back that he turned his full attention to leveraging this expertise for his own business. He underscored the untapped potential in using acquisitions as a tool for entrepreneurs to enhance their business's worth.Equity Over Cash: A Strategic Bootstrapping ApproachOne of the most striking strategies Marty employed was his use of equity instead of cash to bootstrap his business. By forming strategic alliances and offering equity to key partners and vendors, he was able to conserve cash while also taking equity in other businesses. This approach not only saved money but also attracted a team of like-minded individuals driven by performance and shared goals.Building an Entrepreneurial TeamMarty advocates for the recruitment of team...

💡 Guest bioSarah St. John is the host of the Frugalpreneur podcast, where she features bootstrapped entrepreneurs and shares their tips, tricks, tactics, techniques, and tools for building a successful business. Through her showcase episodes, she hopes to provide valuable takeaways for her listeners to implement in their own bootstrap business journey. Sarah is dedicated to helping entrepreneurs navigate the ups and downs of building a business and is passionate about sharing the stories of both successes and failures along the way. Tune in to the Frugalpreneur podcast to learn from Sarah and her featured guests as they share their wisdom and insights.ℹ️ IntroductionIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, we feature Sylvain, a bootstrapped entrepreneur who shares his journey of integrating online components into his healthcare business. Sylvain initially faced the challenge of time constraints and limited reach in his therapy sessions, which led him to develop a hybrid in-person and online program. He emphasizes the importance of customer discovery and leveraging grants and university partnerships for business development. Sylvain also discusses creating passive income for clinics through ebooks and the potential for businesses to expand their revenue streams online. Tune in for valuable insights and practical tips to apply in your own entrepreneurial journey.📚 Timestamped overview00:00 Transition from trapeze to expanding therapy business.04:53 Ebook helps clinics create passive income online.❇️ Key topics and bulletsPrimary Topic: Sylvain's Entrepreneurial Journey- Starting as a Trapeze Therapist- Transition to Osteopathy- Limitations of 1-on-1 Therapy Sessions- The Need to Reach More People and Support Patients After Clinic Visits- Evolution of Healthcare and the Introduction of Online Components- Challenges in Introducing In-Person and Online Programs- Importance of Supporting Patients at Home- Balancing In-Person and Online Programs for Better ResultsPrimary Topic: Bootstrapping the Business- Initially Working Alone and Taking Numerous Courses- Collaboration with Startup Garages for Grants- Developing The Chenek Platform for Clinics- Spending Hours Learning and Doing Tasks Due to Limited Resources- Time and Effort Invested in Bootstrapping- Learning Curve in Developing the Platform and Customer Discovery- Using Clinics as Guinea Pigs for Business Solutions- Leveraging Customer Discovery as a Big WinPrimary Topic: Leveraging Grants and Governmental Support- Leveraging Grants in a Small Province- Connecting with NRC for Grants- Developing Solutions Without Significant Financial Investment- Collaborating with University for Serious Business Credibility- Importance of Spending Time on Grant ApplicationsPrimary Topic: Creating Passive Income and Business Transformations- Developing Ebooks to Help Clinicians Create Passive Income- Changing the Business Paradigm to Embrace Online Income- Encouraging Businesses to Serve Clients After the Sale- Emphasizing the Value of Repeat Sales and Customer Support- Highlighting the Importance of Adding Value to Customers with Online SupportPrimary Topic: Conclusion- Sarah St John’s Expresses Hope for the Value Received by Listeners- Invitation for Potential Guests to Share Their Stories on the Podcast❓ Questions1. What inspired Sylvain to transition from working as a trapeze artist to becoming an entrepreneur in the healthcare industry?2. In what ways did Sylvain's background as a therapist influence his decision to incorporate online components into his business model?3. What were some of the

💡 Guest bioBill is a serial entrepreneur with a diverse background. Starting off as a martial arts instructor, he quickly realized his passion for problem-solving and identifying opportunities. Over the years, he has been a pioneer in various industries, from martial arts to job site and career fair management. Currently, he is focused on a SAS project, developing a communication and management app for networking groups that seamlessly integrates in-person and social media networking. With his innovative mindset and ability to monetize needs, Bill is well-positioned to handle any size growth and community in the future.ℹ️ IntroductionIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, we hear from bootstrapped entrepreneur Bill, who shares his journey of venturing into different industries such as martial arts, job sites, career fairs, and now software as a service (SaaS). Bill emphasizes the importance of networking as a cost-effective marketing strategy, sharing personal successes and failures along the way. He also provides valuable insights on the benefits of creating your own networking group. If you're looking for practical tactics and tips to bootstrap your business, this episode is filled with actionable advice straight from an experienced entrepreneur.📚 Timestamped overview00:00 Effective marketing through networking drives business success.03:09 Overworking led to financial success with higher prices.06:29 Enjoyed the episode? Share your business story.❇️ Key topics and bulletsPrimary Topic: Introduction to Showcase Episode- Explanation of the purpose of the episode- Brief overview of the guest's entrepreneurial journey and insights- Hope for valuable takeaways for listeners in their business journeyPrimary Topic: Bill's Entrepreneurial Journey- Starting as a martial arts instructor- Diversification of interests and spotting opportunities- Involvement in various industries such as martial arts, job site, career fair, and software as a service (SaaS)- Creation of a communication and management app for networking groupsPrimary Topic: Bootstrapping Techniques- Emphasis on operating on a shoestring budget- Significance of networking for marketing- Importance of building deep relationships in networking- Success in creating a business networking group- Failure in undercharging and overworking- Managing time and outsourcing tasks judiciouslyPrimary Topic: Bill's Networking Strategy- Leveraging networking for leads rather than paying for them- Retaining leads generated through warm relationships- Outsourcing tasks to labor in locations like the Philippines- Passion for networking and creation of networking groupsPrimary Topic: Tips for starting a Networking Group- Insights into the benefits of creating a networking group- Advantages of owning or facilitating a networking group- Aspects of choosing founders, employees, location, and group culture- Promotion of a free ebook for starting a networking groupPrimary Topic: Conclusion- Encouragement to listeners to implement takeaways- Invitation for potential guests to share their stories on the showNote: The sequence reflects the flow of the conversation and provides a structured overview of the topics covered in the episode.❓ Questions1. How has Bill's background in martial arts influenced his approach to entrepreneurship and business ventures?2. What are some key strategies and tactics Bill has used to bootstrap his various businesses?3. How has networking played a crucial role in Bill's entrepreneurial journey? What are the benefits he's experienced from networking?4. Can you share a specific...

💡 Guest bioJennie Wright has had a diverse career, starting with a background in finance before transitioning into investor relations and communications in the gold mining industry. She was responsible for organizing large in-person events such as conferences and AGMs. Although her job in the mining industry eventually came to an end due to the nature of startup culture, Jennie's varied experiences have left her well-equipped to navigate the challenges of the professional world.ℹ️ IntroductionIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, we hear from Jennie Wright, a bootstrapped entrepreneur who shares her journey of accidental business beginnings, growth, and the valuable lessons she learned along the way. Jennie discusses how she transitioned from working in marketing to becoming a fractional CMO, emphasizing the power of networking, building a niche, and creating consistent, quality content. She also reflects on her successes, such as effectively utilizing referrals, and shares her insights on common pitfalls to avoid when starting a business. Join us as Jennie offers actionable takeaways and invites listeners to connect with her for further marketing and strategy discussions.📚 Timestamped overview00:00 Entrepreneur networking drove business growth in 2012.05:12 Online reputation led to easier sales, mistakes hindered.08:10 Focus on one skill; avoid overcomplicating processes.❇️ Key topics and bulletsPrimary Topic: Introduction to the Frugalpreneur podcast- Showcase episode featuring a bootstrapped entrepreneur sharing their business journey- Intention to provide valuable takeaways for the listeners' own business journeyPrimary Topic: Jennie Wright's Entrepreneurial Journey- Accidental start to the business- Transition from a large retail store to investor relations and communications in gold mining- Move into online summits and virtual telesummits- Evolution into a fractional CMO for multiple companiesPrimary Topic: Strategies for Bootstrapping the Business- Networking as a fundamental strategy for growth- Building up email lists and word-of-mouth referrals- Focusing on warm traffic for client acquisition- Effective use of referrals for rapid business growth- Niche specialization as the key to successPrimary Topic: Successes and Failures in Bootstrapping- Success: Establishing a strong reputation in the online summits niche- Failure: Mistakes in platform selection and unnecessary spending- Failure: Inadequate focus on building social credibilityPrimary Topic: Tips, Tricks, and Techniques for Bootstrapping- Emphasizing networking as a critical growth tool- Consistent content creation and online presence- Niche specialization for quick business growth- Overcoming the fear of visibility and leveraging platforms like podcasts- Advising against over-complicating processes and advocating a simple tech stack- Identifying and rectifying business inefficiencies as a priorityPrimary Topic: Conclusion and Call to Action- Invitation for potential guests to share their stories on the podcast- Encouragement for listeners to implement takeaways in their businesses- Contact information for connecting with Jennie Wright for marketing and strategy advice❓ Questions1. How did Jennie Wright stumble into entrepreneurship, and what skills did she bring with her from her previous roles?2. How did Jennie bootstrap her business, and what strategies did she use to grow her clientele quickly?3. What role did networking play in Jennie's business growth, and how did she leverage it to her advantage during the early stages of her business?4. What were Jennie's top tips...

💡 Speaker biosSarah St. John is the dedicated host of the Frugalpreneur podcast, where she showcases bootstrapped entrepreneurs and shares their valuable insights and experiences. With a passion for helping others navigate the world of entrepreneurship, Sarah is committed to providing actionable tips, tricks, and tools to her listeners. Her goal is to offer inspiration and practical advice for those embarking on their own journey as a frugalpreneur. Through her podcast, Sarah seeks to empower others to achieve success while navigating the challenges and triumphs of starting a business from the ground up.ℹ️ IntroductionIn this episode of the Frugalpreneur podcast, we feature Jeremy, a seasoned entrepreneur who shares his insights and experiences on bootstrapping businesses. He emphasizes the entrepreneurial freedom that comes with running a business and discusses his approach to helping business owners and founders overcome obstacles through structured mastermind groups. Jeremy highlights the importance of validating business ideas through MVPs (minimum viable products) and shares both successes and failures from his entrepreneurial journey. Listeners will gain valuable takeaways on bootstrapping and peer advisory, as well as this unique opportunity to join the Bay Area Mastermind group. Don't miss out on these practical tips and firsthand experiences from a successful entrepreneur on this episode of Frugalpreneur.📚 Timestamped overview00:00 Built product to fill need, gained customers.03:28 Test MVP to validate idea and bootstrap.07:37 Chat with experienced members, join mastermind group.❇️ Key topics and bulletsPrimary Topic: Introduction to the Frugalpreneur podcast- Host introduces the episode as a showcase featuring a bootstrapped entrepreneur- Purpose of showcasing entrepreneurs to provide valuable takeaways for listeners in their own business journeyPrimary Topic: Entrepreneurial Freedom- Guest shares advocacy for entrepreneurship and its role in providing various forms of freedom- Focus on financial freedom, time freedom, and choice (optionality)- Ability to choose how to spend time, work with whom, and prioritize family and personal interests- Emphasis on businesses supporting entrepreneurship and solving societal problems through entrepreneurial effortsPrimary Topic: Structured Mastermind Groups- Guest's current focus on working with founders, business owners, and entrepreneurs through mastermind groups- Structured approach involves monthly full-day deep dives for peer advisory, aiming to help businesses overcome plateaus and scale upPrimary Topic: Bootstrapping and Incubation of Business Ideas- Guest's history of bootstrapping all his businesses- Technique of incubating new business ideas within existing businesses to fill gaps or needs- Process of spinning off and growing successful ideas into standalone businessesPrimary Topic: Success and Failure Stories in Bootstrapping- Example of successfully filling a gap in the market with a product born from a Mastermind group discussion- Story of launching a new ecommerce business and quickly gaining paying customers before the business was fully operational- Lesson from a product launch webinar blunder and its impact on business operationsPrimary Topic: MVP and Customer Validation- Emphasis on the concept of an MVP (minimum viable product)- Importance of customer transactions for validating business ideas- Recommendation to start with the smallest, easiest version of a product or service to show early value and attract early customers- Iterative process of gathering feedback and rapidly improving the offering based on customer responsesPrimary Topic: Benefits of...