Let's Talk Business

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're thrilled to revisit a highly engaging conversation on the critical role of company culture, leadership, and conflict resolution in scaling a business. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he speaks with Dr. David Kaplowitz, a former top chiropractor who transitioned into a respected business coach specializing in leadership development and organizational culture. In this episode, Dr. Kaplowitz offers actionable advice on mastering active listening skills, a fundamental component for building a strong company culture. He details a four-step conflict resolution formula that helps leaders address issues effectively while maintaining organizational harmony. Additionally, he discusses the significance of teachable moments in leadership, empowering leaders to grow from everyday experiences and improve team dynamics. Dr. Kaplowitz shares his journey from running a successful chiropractic practice to becoming one of the most sought-after business coaches. Drawing from his experience, he highlights the importance of nurturing a supportive company culture, effective communication, and conflict resolution for sustained business growth. Dr. Kaplowitz also touches upon the balance between a leader making critical decisions and involving the team in the decision-making process for a balanced and inclusive workplace. He emphasizes the need for leaders to understand and refine their leadership energy levels to inspire and influence their teams positively. Tune in for a wealth of practical insights from Dr. Kaplowitz on transforming leadership and cultivating an environment where both business and personnel thrive. Don't miss this episode filled with valuable strategies and real-world examples of effective business leadership.   00:00 - Pioneering Chiropractic Advertising 04:34 - From Practitioner to Leadership Coach 08:21 - Fostering Inclusive Company Culture 12:06 - Improving Company Culture Tips 12:56 - Mastering Active Listening Skills 18:09 - Chiropractor's Early Practice Experience 20:17 - Streamlining IT Management Follow-Ups 25:23 - Effective Conflict Resolution Strategy 26:31 - Empowering Leadership through Engagement 31:31 - Achieving Authenticity in the Workplace 33:33 - Leadership Balance: Directive vs. Inclusive 37:29 - Level Five Leadership and Communication 41:47 - Free Leadership Coaching Consultation 43:08 - Effective Leadership Consulting Advice 47:23 - Hiring Help vs. Profit Balance   Involve your team in the decision-making process to gain different perspectives and ensure informed, balanced choices. Leaders must develop active listening skills to understand their team's concerns better, which includes asking open-ended questions, validating feelings, and truly hearing employees, leading to improved engagement and solutions. Setting clear expectations and accountability mechanisms ensures that employees understand their responsibilities and the timelines for completing tasks, which helps prevent misunderstandings and improves efficiency. Building a company culture requires focusing on both content (operational) and context (emotional) conversations. Creating a supportive environment where employees feel valued and engaged is crucial for sustainable growth and productivity. Continuous personal and professional growth is essential for leaders. Effective leaders listen actively, resolve conflicts constructively, and constantly seek feedback to improve their leadership skills and maintain their organization's direction.   https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://www.rockspringcoaching.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidkaplowitz/    

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are excited to present a compelling conversation with Shulem Berkowitz, an esteemed leadership coach and business strategist. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode dives deep into the intricate journey of transforming from a skilled craftsman to an effective leader. Shulem recounts his own transition from excelling in writing, graphic design, and printing to embracing his role as a leadership coach. His journey underscores the challenges and rewards of moving beyond personal accomplishments to empowering others. Highlighting the fundamental distinctions between consultants, coaches, and therapists, Shulem and Meny explore how each role uniquely contributes to business success. Listeners are taken through practical strategies for overcoming bottlenecks, such as temporarily stepping away from daily operations and identifying delegable tasks. Shulem emphasizes the importance of focusing on the 20% of crucial tasks that leaders must handle themselves and trusting the team with the rest. This episode also sheds light on self-awareness and growth, encouraging leaders to recognize their unique strengths and leverage them effectively. The discussion extends to company culture, where Shulem highlights the necessity of clear communication and value alignment. Drawing parallels between organizational success and the leader’s personal development, he illustrates how achieving business goals is intertwined with personal growth and overcoming internal barriers. Whether you're an emerging leader or a seasoned entrepreneur, this episode provides a wealth of knowledge to help you transcend challenges and achieve sustainable growth.   00:06:20 - Learn business, self-transform, understand leadership, empower others 00:08:34 - Consultants guide on business strategies and execution 00:11:04 - PandaDoc streamlines document creation and management 00:14:28 - Transition from craftsman to teacher, guiding others 00:17:40 - Navigating organizational growth while managing uncertainty 00:21:30 - Assess essential tasks by observing absence effects 00:25:20 - Who am I, beyond others' perceptions? 00:28:00 - People struggle with identity, leaders with delegation 00:31:12 - Pursue leadership goals positively, not reactively 00:34:44 - Real understanding and communication ensure company cohesion 00:38:31 - Leadership growth mirrors personal development 00:42:33 - Seek help sooner to alleviate pain and struggles 00:44:33 - Success increases your need for help 00:48:33 - Understand strengths, delegate, align values, seek support   Pratical Pointers  Shulem's journey illustrates the importance of transitioning from a hands-on entrepreneur to an empowering leader. By focusing on enabling team members and embracing leadership roles, individuals can foster business growth and personal development. Recognizing the unique contributions of consultants, coaches, and therapists can help individuals and organizations leverage the right expertise at the right time. This understanding is crucial for overcoming obstacles and achieving organizational goals. Leadership effectiveness is closely tied to self-awareness and continuous personal development. Shulem emphasizes the significance of understanding one’s strengths and delegating tasks to create space for strategic leadership. Shulem highlights the necessity of aligning company culture with shared values and clear communication. Leaders should articulate their goals and foster a supportive culture to ensure that team members act in ways that reflect the company’s ethos. Shulem’s experience underscores the importance of seeking external support and being open to help. Understanding that asking for assistance is a strength rather than a weakness can lead to greater success and continuous growth, both personally and professionally.   PandaDoc Rock Leadership Solutions Sholem's Linkedin

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to share this conversation with Morri Chowaiki, a successful entrepreneur, Shark Tank alum, and head of sales and special partnerships for Daymond John's Shark Group. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode dives deep into Morri's extensive experience in business, offering listeners invaluable advice on pitching, partnerships, and entrepreneurial resilience. Morri shares his transformational journey from growing up in Los Angeles to achieving significant success in various business ventures, including his memorable appearance on Shark Tank. This narrative emphasizes the importance of authenticity, preparedness, and leveraging opportunities to build lasting relationships. Listeners will gain crucial insights into the art of pitching to investors, understanding business metrics, and the value of aligning personal and professional brands for long-term success. The episode also explores the pivotal role of resilience, adaptability, and creating genuine, impactful connections in the entrepreneurial realm. Moreover, Morri unveils the intricate details of the Shark Tank process, from auditioning to post-show due diligence, offering a candid look at what it takes to stand out. He shares his firsthand experience of working both sides of the Shark Tank process, which enriches his insights on nurturing successful business partnerships. The conversation delves into the intersection of personal and professional life, reflecting on the sacrifices, challenges, and rewards of the entrepreneurial journey. Morri and Meny also touch upon the critical importance of work-life balance, setting boundaries, and finding personal satisfaction in one's career endeavors. Through thought-provoking anecdotes and expert guidance, this episode delivers actionable strategies for entrepreneurs to optimize their pitches, foster meaningful relationships, and navigate the complexities of business with integrity and resilience. Whether you're new to entrepreneurship or looking to refine your approach, this episode is brimming with valuable takeaways to help you thrive. Tune in to discover how embracing authenticity and strategic thinking can propel your business and personal growth.   Resources :  Morri's Linkedin The Shark Group Panda Doc   00:05:25 - Modern kids lack financial and practical education 00:09:56 - Worked hard balancing theater, work, and classes 00:12:01 - Action distinguishes entrepreneurs from dreamers 00:14:27 - Have resources and passion to succeed entrepreneurially 00:19:17 - Auditioned for Shark Tank; didn't progress further 00:22:30 - No guarantees on Shark Tank appearances airing 00:26:14 - Maintained connection through favors for influential individual 00:27:52 - Top motivational speaker inspires Fortune 500 audiences 00:31:47 - Seek opportunities aligning with intuition for growth 00:35:12 - Personality and sincerity matter more than resumes 00:38:17 - Focus on investor's interests, not personal gain 00:39:50 - Pitch well, maintain relations, choose strategic partners 00:43:22 - He achieved rapid success through entrepreneurship programs 00:47:06 - Support, balance, resilience crucial for success   Practical Pointers   Learning from mentors and industry icons can provide invaluable guidance in one’s entrepreneurial journey. Mentors offer experience-based insights and advice that can accelerate personal and professional growth. Morri emphasizes the importance of authenticity in building lasting business relationships. Genuine interactions foster trust and loyalty, which are essential for sustainable success. A strong support system, both personally and professionally, is integral to entrepreneurial success. Morri’s experience illustrates how surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can provide encouragement, advice, and resources during challenging times. Insights from industry icons like Kevin O'Leary and Mark Cuban emphasize the necessity of balancing professional ambitions with personal life. Achieving this balance is crucial for long-term success and personal well-being. Morri’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience, demonstrating how maintaining a strong and adaptable mindset can help navigate both personal and professional obstacles. This quality enables individuals to persevere in the face of setbacks and continue striving toward their goals.    

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to welcome Mitch Axelrod, an entrepreneurial powerhouse, speaker, trainer, advisor, best-selling author, and a man who has significantly contributed to generating over $3 billion in revenue. Join our host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Mitch to unravel the profound insights and strategies that have defined Mitch's illustrious career. We'll delve into Mitch Axelrod's inspiring path from a seasoned salesperson to a thought leader in the world of sales strategies. Mitch will share his revolutionary approach known as "The New Game of Selling," which emphasizes long-term client relationships over transactional sales. You will also learn about the impactful question that Mitch claims has been instrumental in generating substantial revenue. Discover how Mitch has successfully integrated marketing, sales, and service to create a holistic strategy for attracting, converting, and retaining customers. He explains how qualifying prospects early and adding real value, like sharing top 20 no-load mutual funds with clients, has helped him build trust and maintain confidentiality. In this episode, Mitch and Meny discuss the importance of understanding the roles of different corporate buyers, building authentic business relationships, and fostering a win-win philosophy in deals. You'll hear about Mitch's unique methods for engaging clients, maintaining long-term relationships, and the significance of being a trusted advisor.   Episode Timestamps 04:58 Focus on genuine potential clients, not indifferent ones. 09:40 Help clients attract, convert, retain, and reactivate customers. 13:04 Focus on their buying cycle for success. 14:42 Understanding clients' needs to facilitate their journeys. 17:04 Supporting brand journeys; focus on existing clients. 23:42 Build relationships and understand client needs deeply. 25:12 Prioritize long-term relationships post-sale for success. 28:45 Questioning authenticity: genuine or mere marketing tool? 33:39 Switch seats, advocate together, achieve mutual understanding. 35:43 Identify stakeholders and their roles for sales decisions. 40:19 Everyone matters: allies or adversaries based on approach. 42:41 Work backwards, language distinctions, leverage existing clients. Practical Pointers that can learned from this episode : Use impactful questions to understand your clients' needs and motivations, which can drive significant revenue and deeper relationships. Don’t waste time on unlikely customers. Ask your prospects upfront critical questions to gauge their potential as clients. Use real feedback from your satisfied clients to attract similar customers. Directly ask your successful clients, "What was the main benefit you received from our service?"  Start with serving rather than selling. Begin your meetings or calls with, "What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing right now that I might help with?" When re-engaging lapsed clients, authenticity is key. Refrain from using scripted, generic follow-ups. Instead, say, "I realized it’s been a while since we last connected, and I wanted to make sure your needs are still being met." Links : https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://thenewgameofselling.com/ https://www.youtube.com/user/mitchaxelrod https://www.facebook.com/mitchaxelrod  

Sometimes, we like to imagine that business success can be separated from success in other areas of life. But as Meny Hoffman, host of the "Let's Talk Business" podcast, often says, life is like a car with four wheels: the wheels of spiritual goals, financial goals, health goals, and family goals; if one wheel is flat, the others won’t do much good. In this conversation with international speaker, bestselling author, business coach, and CEO of Self-Mastery Academy Rabbi Shmuel Reichman, Meny and Shmuel discuss the importance of personal development as a part of business success, the need to create an integrated life, the necessity of having a vision and the ways to divide that vision into bite-size goals, avoiding irrational fears of failure, having partners to whom you can be accountable, and much more.   In our episode, Rabbi Reichman emphasizes the necessity of accountability and having a supportive network when pursuing new goals or personal development. Our conversation highlights the need for balanced growth across spiritual, financial, health, and family aspects to sustain long-term success. We discuss the value of involving spouses in business endeavors and how shared missions and communication transform personal and professional relationships. Lastly, we discuss the role of coaching and mentorship in overcoming obstacles and guiding personal and professional development, including Rabbi Reichman's approach to integrating therapy, coaching, and consulting. This and so much more on the "Let's Talk Business" podcast... Let’s dive into our conversation with Rabbi Shmuel Reichman. Timestamps:  06:05 - Devoted life to ideas and wisdom, blending worlds. 07:45 - Mission to synthesize personal development and business. 11:33 - Achieving balance across life's dimensions ensures success. 15:13 - Discovering and achieving personal and professional potential. 17:46 - Developing a vision for self-improvement and success. 22:12 - Self-improvement without needing validation from others. 24:42 - Discover and express your true self's purpose. 30:50 - Breaking down ambitious goals into manageable steps. 33:12 - Having an exercise partner is essential accountability. 36:03 - Essential hardcore success: identity, belief, mindset, persistence. 40:50 - Appreciate timeliness and impact of personal growth. 44:51 - Set a six-month deadline to transition careers. 46:01 - Embrace, control, and surround yourself for success. 49:41 - Spouse commitment surpasses business partnerships and values. 52:17 - Diverse coaching program covers therapy, coaching, consulting. 56:07 - Recognize and overcome irrational fears for success.   Practical Pointers: You often hear people say that we shouldn’t mix family and business. But that’s not necessarily the case. Your spouse is committed to you for the long term, has the same mission and goals as you do, and is 100% trustworthy, supportive, and cheering you on to succeed. Even when you have bite-size goals on the way to the big vision, you still need accountability. That’s why having a partner is essential: a spouse, a coach, or someone else who will make sure that you’re doing what you set out to do.  It’s important to have a big and impressive vision; but you’ll probably get discouraged if the goal appears beyond reach. Instead, divide your time into bite-size goals so that you can reach for the first step before trying to get to the second.  Learn to recognize the difference between rational and irrational fears. Too often, people are afraid of failure even though there’s no reason to believe that failure is likely.  You accomplish this by thinking of a realistic time frame for something very big, then orienting this year towards one step of that goal, and this month towards one step of the yearly goal, and this day towards one step of the monthly goal. Connect with Schmuel on LinkedIn and Instagram. Visit his website to think deeper, leave inspired, and achieve the extraordinary!   Connect with Ptex Group: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn   LEAVE A REVIEW + and SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts!

This is episode rerun with Seth Godin from Episode 157 In a world that changes at blinding speed, the difference between success and failure is often a question of learning to adapt in a way that will serve your customers. What are some of the most important differences between marketing in the past and marketing in 2023, and how can you utilize these changes to grow your business?  Join Meny Hoffman as he asks entrepreneur, best-selling author, world-famous blogger, and marketing guru Seth Godin about why advertising doesn’t work anymore, Seth’s fascinating innovations, the difference between permission marketing and interruption marketing, how to limit your audience in order to grow your business, why being first is overrated, the reason that you should lead your company like a surfer rather than a golfer, ways to integrate AI into your operations, and much more.  Seth Godin is an entrepreneur, best-selling author, and speaker. In addition to launching one of the most popular blogs in the world, he has written 21 best-selling books, including The Dip, Linchpin, Purple Cow, Tribes, and What To Do When It's Your Turn (And It's Always Your Turn). His book, This is Marketing, was an instant bestseller in countries around the world. In 2013, Seth was one of just three professionals inducted into the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame, and he was also inducted into the Marketing Hall of Fame as well in 2018. (He might be the only person in both.) Practical Pointers: Embrace the Purple Cow Concept: Seth Godin's idea of the purple cow emphasizes creating products or services that are truly remarkable and stand out in the marketplace. Focus on innovation and uniqueness to capture attention and drive word-of-mouth marketing. Craft Remarkable Experiences: Invest in creating memorable and exceptional customer experiences. This can differentiate your brand and foster loyalty, encouraging repeat business and positive referrals. Leverage Permission-Based Marketing: Build a marketing strategy that prioritizes obtaining permission to communicate with your audience. This approach respects customer privacy and increases the likelihood of engagement and conversion. Cut Through the Marketing Clutter: In a saturated market, it's crucial to develop clear, compelling messages that resonate with your target audience. Use storytelling and emotional connections to make your marketing efforts stand out. Target Specific Audiences with Unique Offerings: Focus on creating products or services tailored to the needs and desires of a specific audience. This targeted approach can lead to higher customer satisfaction and stronger brand loyalty.   Timestamps: - Purple Cow by Seth Godin: 00:01:03 - Seth Godin's books: 00:02:21 - Permission Marketing by Seth Godin: 00:08:15 - Phone automation for restaurants in New York City: 00:17:58 - The Long Tail concept: 00:19:06 - The Song of Significance book: 00:20:19 - The Carbon Almanac: 00:26:23 - AI and its impact on businesses: 00:29:45 - The blog of the speaker: 00:34:25 - The Song of Significance: 00:20:19 - The Zen Master story: 00:32:00 - The new Mission Impossible movie: 00:31:45 - AI, electricity, and their impact on the world: 00:30:52 - The Art of Possibility by Ben Zander and Roz Zander: 00:36:23   Key Quotes:   “Marketing is telling a true story that resonates with your smallest viable audience that they want to hear, that causes them to take action and to tell their friends.” - Seth Godin “Sales is what happens when we add unscalable human emotion to the marketing equation.” - Seth Godin “Leadership is voluntary. Leadership is about lighting a path forward and seeing who will follow you.” - Seth Godin   Connect with Ptex Group: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn   LEAVE A REVIEW + and SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! 

Everybody knows that company culture is important, but that’s a lot different from actually building a culture that sticks, makes your business better, and gives your employees a sense of mission. How can you build a meaningful and deep-rooted company culture that will also make your business stronger and more successful? Mike Beckham, the co-founder, and CEO of Simple Modern has created one of the most successful drinkware companies on the planet while also fostering a mission-based culture. In this episode of Let’s Talk Business, Meny asks Mike about the secrets of his success, the ways we can all inculcate a positive and productive culture in our companies, what entrepreneurs need to look at when trying to start a company, and much more. Listen and enjoy!   Mike Beckham is the co-founder and CEO of Simple Modern, one of the largest and most successful drinkware companies in the world. He also helped found several e-commerce businesses which have together generated over a billion dollars in revenue and has been involved both in the for-profit and nonprofit sectors.   Key Highlights:   [00:01 - 14:45] Opening Segment • Mike shares his backstory and career path leading up to founding the company - Simple Modern • The importance of a company's mission is something that is often overlooked but is essential in order for it to be successful Mission-driven companies are more beneficial to society than those without a sense of purpose • It is the leader's responsibility to create an environment in which their team can thrive and achieve their goals   [14:46 - 29:44] How to Create a Culture that's Idealistic & Practical • Diversity is good when it comes to having different perspectives and skill sets, but can be unhelpful when values are different • A company with shared values and a shared mission will be stronger than one with diverse values or no values at all Having core values and focusing on a mission helps to create a culture that is self-fulfilling and attracts employees who share those values • Why a company's culture cannot be created without deep convictions from the leader about what they believe in • How Simple Modern uses transparency to attract and retain ton talent   [29:45 - 44:32] Transparent Leaders Build Trust • Transparency is the exercise of allowing other people to see what you're thinking • When you build a culture where both relationally and organizationally, people are transparent, trust is fostered Leaders should be transparent about their weaknesses and get feedback from team members to improve • The mindset for a startup entering a new market is to look at the best players in the space See where players may be white space that they can enter   [44:33 - 1:00:50] Closing Segment • How to create a long-term sustainable competitive advantage • Mike on the rapid-four questions • Q&A: How can I figure out the best way to use the money to maximize its effect on growing my business?   Key Quotes:   "The world doesn't need another water ball company, but the world definitely needs more mission-driven companies." - Mike Beckham   "I want to be in environments that add to my quality of life, where I am working with other people who are trying to be about the same things and are trying to accomplish the same mission." - Mike Beckham   "Great founders and great cultures, start with deep convictions." - Mike Beckham   Connect with Ptex Group: Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, LinkedIn   LEAVE A REVIEW + and SHARE this episode with someone who wants to achieve in business. Listen to previous episodes on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you get your podcasts! 

In this rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we revisit a captivating conversation that dives deep into the essence of strategy in scaling a business successfully. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Simon Severino, the author, CEO of Strategy Sprints, and host of the Strategy Sprints podcast. Simon shares his journey from a strategy advisor to revolutionizing the business world with the Strategy Sprints method. His approach helps businesses double their revenue in 90 days by focusing on effective strategy and getting owners out of the weeds. Through Strategy Sprints, Simon emphasizes the significance of direct paths to scaling and identifying bottlenecks within a business to streamline operations and maximize efficiency. Throughout the episode, Simon offers insightful advice on understanding the bottlenecks that prevent business growth, highlighting elements such as financial transparency and agility in business operations. He unveils the importance of weekly evaluations of profit, cost positions, and cash flow to maintain proper steering of the business. Furthermore, Simon discusses the role of proper delegation and accountability within business teams. He explains how these elements help business leaders transition from being doers to effective strategizers, who guide their companies through strategic insights and agile decision-making. Listeners will gain valuable knowledge on why removing oneself from daily operations and staying focused on strategic growth can propel a company to thrive in today's ever-changing market. Tune in to discover how businesses can achieve rapid growth by implementing strategic operations and learning faster than competitors.   https://ptex.co/pandadoc http://www.strategysprints.com/   00:00 - Business Growth with Simon Severino 06:00 - Scaling Challenges Beyond Initial Growth 08:29 - Uncovering Direct Paths in Business 11:27 - Prioritize Simple, Effective Business Steps 13:32 - Survival Through Fast Learning 19:07 - Financial Oversight for Business Leaders 21:42 - Weekly Scorecards Drive Business Success 26:02 - Strategy Sprints: Doubling Sales Skills 28:19 - Raise Prices to Boost Profit 30:21 - Rapid Testing Over Prolonged Research 33:59 - Podcast Takeaways for Immediate Action 38:59 - CEOs: Balance Autonomy and Oversight 42:10 - Blockchain's Transformative Power   The importance of adjusting pricing strategies and effectively communicating the value proposition is discussed. Simon and Meny talk about how businesses can consider increasing their prices by leveraging client testimonials and focusing on delivering and showcasing tangible value to their customers. Simon introduces the idea of return on luck, which reflects the impact of experimentation on business success. Running marketing and sales experiments regularly helps businesses seize opportunities akin to creating one’s luck through strategic actions and learning faster than competitors.  Simon shares his insights and excitement about blockchain technology, describing it as transformational like the internet. The potential changes to business operations, finance, and global trade are profound, signaling the importance for business leaders to understand and integrate blockchain into their future strategies.  Develop standard operating procedures (SOPs) for various roles to enable effective delegation and reduce reliance on any single individual. Regular inspection of key metrics is vital for ensuring alignment with business goals and for effective decision-making.

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, host Meny Hoffman sits down with Yoel Judowitz to explore the fascinating journey from illustration to digital marketing success. Starting his career as a children's book illustrator, Yoel's story is one of adaptation and growth, showcasing how creative skills can evolve to meet changing market demands. What makes this conversation particularly compelling is Yoel's unique perspective on transitioning from traditional artistic work to the dynamic world of digital marketing. As the founder of Story Tribe Media, he shares how his background in storytelling and visual arts became invaluable assets in the modern marketing landscape, especially within the Jewish community. The discussion delves deep into the challenges of scaling a creative business, with Yoel candidly sharing his experiences in building and managing a studio team. He offers valuable insights into maintaining creative quality while delegating work, particularly when dealing with cultural nuances specific to the Jewish market. A significant portion of the conversation focuses on the evolution of digital marketing, especially the growing importance of platforms like WhatsApp status in the firm and Jewish communities. Both Hoffman and Judowitz explore how businesses can effectively navigate these new channels while staying true to their brand identity. Whether you're a creative professional looking to expand your horizons, a business owner navigating the digital landscape, or simply interested in the intersection of creativity and business, this episode offers practical insights and actionable strategies for success in today's evolving market. Panda Doc storytribemedia.com Yoel's Links 04:05 - LinkedIn Growth & Creative Storytelling 06:53 - Turning Passion for Illustration Into Business 12:09 - Cultural Challenges in Creative Marketing 15:50 - Building a Sellable Service Business 18:48 - The Rise of Authentic Marketing 21:02 - ArtScroll's WhatsApp Status Development 26:32 - Navigating Social Media Strategies 27:13 - Platform Presence Depends on Company 30:15 - Metrics Inform, But Don't Dictate 35:39 - Align Values, Build Career, Focus Platforms 36:33 - Make It a Great Day Don't be afraid to fail; view setbacks as opportunities to learn and grow, much like Yoel did when he was initially fired. Learn to delegate tasks and build a team that can sustain your business independently, as illustrated by Yoel’s journey from YJ Studios to managing a team for illustration. Consider building a personal brand alongside your company brand to create a more personalized connection. However, ensure alignment with company values to avoid any discrepancies. Utilize the skills you are naturally good at, as a way to build your career initially, like Yoel did with illustration for children's books. Focus on platforms that provide the most benefit for your business, whether it's LinkedIn, Instagram, or WhatsApp status, similar to Yoel's observations about these mediums.  

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to chatting with Doug Stephens, a visionary in the retail industry and founder of Retail Prophet. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode delves into Doug's extensive experience and his expert perspective on the evolution of branding, retail trends, and the essential elements of customer experience. Doug shares his journey of observing and shaping the retail landscape for over two decades, highlighting critical observations about how brands can remain relevant and thrive in an ever-changing market. This narrative underlines the importance of having a clear brand purpose and consistently animating this purpose across all facets of a business. Doug discusses the dual nature of a brand, comprising both visible elements like logos and advertising, and the less visible components such as company culture and supply chain practices. He emphasizes that true brand success hinges on a brand's ability to integrate and manifest its core purpose in every business process, creating a genuine connection with their audience. Additionally, Doug provides a compelling analysis of post-pandemic retail dynamics, discussing the fusion of physical and digital experiences, the rise of third-party marketplaces, and the strategic adjustments businesses must make to cater to modern consumer behaviors. His insights are particularly beneficial for retailers and business owners seeking to navigate the complexities of today's market while aiming to deliver unparalleled value and experience to their customers. Through thoughtful anecdotes and expert advice, this episode offers actionable strategies for business owners and leaders to leverage the principles of effective branding and customer experience design. Tune in to explore how maintaining a clear brand purpose and innovating on customer touchpoints can drive business growth and customer loyalty. Whether you're a seasoned retailer or an emerging entrepreneur, this episode is packed with insights to help you refine your strategy and strengthen your brand's impact. 04:21 - Retail Profit's Market Vision 09:02 - Purpose: Key to Brand Success 12:04 - Apple's Renegade Vision 13:46 - Retail Innovation and Founder Vision 18:51 - Branding Commitment vs. Lip Service 21:34 - Brand Identity vs. Strategic Focus 27:25 - Amazon's Delivery Evolution & Marketplaces 29:53 - Identifying Market Opportunities 32:37 - Experiential NYC Toy Store 37:26 - AI Transforming Retail Workflow 40:07 - End of Retail Era 44:08 - Dominate One Area, Maintain Values 45:04 - Align Business Purpose & Delivery   Select one primary area to dominate from the four positions mentioned: culture, entertainment, expertise, or design. Focus on excelling in one area rather than trying to be everything to everyone. Experience your own customer service channels firsthand, just as Doug suggested CEOs should do quarterly, to identify gaps in service delivery. If you're growing, create systems to maintain your brand purpose and values even as the organization expands, preventing the "watering down" effect that often happens with scale Create clear guidelines about what your brand promises and ensure all business decisions (from sourcing to pricing) align with these commitments. Review how your stated purpose is actually showing up across all aspects of your business - from products to customer service to employee culture. Look for gaps between what you claim and what you deliver.  

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're diving back into a compelling discussion on the power of authenticity and purpose in driving business success. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he reconnects with Berel Solomon, a dynamic entrepreneur and the founder of Wealthy Commercials and Wealthy Executive Coaching. Berel's journey from running a family business to starting his own ventures is nothing short of inspiring. From his candid reflection on mixing family with business, to his passionate approach towards video marketing and executive coaching, Berel provides a wealth of actionable advice for aspiring entrepreneurs and seasoned business owners alike. In this episode, Berel shares his perspective on aligning personal passions with professional pursuits, and the profound impact it has on one's success. He reveals the challenges and triumphs he faced while transitioning from his family business to founding Wealthy Commercials, a company that has taken on a life of its own through powerful video marketing strategies. Moreover, Berel delves into the crucial role of mentorship and coaching in personal and business growth. He talks about the importance of having experienced mentors to navigate the complexities of running a family business and the strategic significance of coaching for continuous development. Berel's core message is to operate within your "zone of genius"—a concept that he believes redefines how entrepreneurs should view their unique capabilities and contributions. He articulates how passion-driven work not only brings personal fulfillment but also attracts opportunities and resources that propel business growth. Throughout the conversation, Berel provides insights on building strong teams, effective delegation, and the impact of genuine, purpose-driven branding. His candid anecdotes and practical advice offer listeners a roadmap to integrating personal values with professional goals for sustained business success. Tune in to this episode for an enriching conversation that marries the heart of entrepreneurship with actionable business strategies. Whether you’re facing challenges in your family business, seeking to explore new ventures, or looking to inspire your team, this discussion with Berel Solomon promises invaluable takeaways.   05:21 - "Balancing Family and Business Dynamics" 09:01 - Embracing Self-Awareness and Authenticity 09:55 - "Embracing Faith and Genius" 13:08 - Pursue Passionate Work 17:40 - Influencer Journey: Open Book Approach 19:21 - "Lighting the World for God" 23:33 - Balancing Personal and Business Success 26:18 - Balancing Business Ventures Timing 29:19 - Empowering Coaches Boost Business 35:11 - Mentorship and Self-Improvement Magic 38:11 - Regretting Poor Influence Decisions   Berel Solomon talks about the challenges of working in a family business, especially with his father and brothers. The key takeaway is the importance of maintaining professional relationships and sometimes seeking external help, like hiring a mentor to mediate conflicts. Berel Solomon discusses being in one's "zone of genius" rather than just following a passion. He shares insights on how operating within this zone allows for greater success and fulfillment. He contrasts this with simply making money, emphasizing that true success comes from aligning one’s work with personal strengths and passions. Berel reveals how he juggles several business ventures, a documentary, and personal commitments by utilizing technology and delegating tasks. He highlights the importance of focusing on high-value activities and outsourcing less critical tasks, underscoring effective time management and prioritization.  Berel’s mission is to bring awareness about God and spirituality through his work. He emphasizes that his end goal is to connect people to the one above, regardless of the means, whether through business ventures, social media, or upcoming projects like his documentary. Berel explains how COVID-19 impacted his business structure. He trimmed down his workforce to retain only the most committed employees. This adaptation not only sustained but also streamlined his business operations, suggesting that crises can present opportunities for re-evaluating and optimizing business practices.   https://www.linkedin.com/in/berel-solomon/ https://www.wealthyco.com/main http://berelsolomon.com/      

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're excited to revisit a foundational conversation with Adam Lean, a seasoned accountant, business owner, and founder of the CFO Project. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode focuses on the crucial importance of understanding and managing business finances, especially for entrepreneurs driven by passion rather than numbers.   Adam Lean delves into the common challenges faced by business owners who often prioritize their craft over financial management. This candid discussion illuminates how neglecting crucial metrics can undermine business success, and emphasizes the vital role of cash flow in sustaining and growing a business. Listeners will gain valuable insights into essential financial strategies. Adam breaks down the importance of tracking cash flow over mere revenue or profit, explaining that actual cash on hand is what keeps a business afloat. He introduces key performance metrics—like the number of leads, conversion rates, retention rates, purchase frequency, and average purchase amounts—that drive cash flow and highlights the need for regular monitoring using tools like scorecards. This episode also clarifies the distinction between accountants and CFOs, drawing attention to the proactive, strategic planning that CFOs provide, which goes beyond mere number tracking. The conversation underscores the benefits of virtual CFO services for small and medium-sized businesses, offering a cost-effective way to gain strategic financial insight. Through practical examples, including a roofing company that transformed its business by focusing on targeted financial metrics, Adam underscores the power of weekly tracking and adjustment over waiting for annual financial reports. Tune in to uncover actionable advice and essential wisdom for mastering your business's financial health. Whether you are an emerging entrepreneur or an established business owner, this episode is filled with indispensable strategies to enhance your financial literacy and business performance.   00:00 - Business reports often confuse owners, making it difficult to take actionable steps. 06:12 - Upgrade to PandaDoc for efficient document creation. 07:37 - Miscalculated margins due to overlooked financial insights. 13:31 - Leads, conversion, retention, purchase frequency rates. 15:16 - CFO vs. Accountant: Broader business performance tracking. 19:03 - Strategies to improve gross profit percentage highlighted. 21:49 - Involvement ensures spending yields profitable returns. 27:17 - Successful entrepreneurs are determined and persistent. 28:33 - Helping clients succeed financially as trusted advisors.    Implement scorecards to track weekly performance, helping you make informed decisions in real-time rather than waiting for quarterly or annual reports. Understand that accountants focus on historical data and compliance, while CFOs offer strategic planning for future growth and profitability. If hiring a full-time CFO is too costly, consider virtual CFO services to get strategic financial advice at a fraction of the cost. Evaluate all expenses to ensure they're contributing to making money. Avoid cutting costs randomly, as this could harm business operations. Instead of relying solely on industry standards, benchmark your performance against your past results to gauge progress and improvement accurately.   https://ptex.co/pandadoc https://thecfoproject.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamlean/    

Today, we're thrilled to have Laibel Schwartz—a dynamic and multifaceted entrepreneur—joining us. Laibel's journey is nothing short of inspirational. From starting as a wedding photographer to evolving into a pioneer in video content creation, Laibel has navigated the ever-changing landscape of business with unyielding authenticity and creativity. In this episode, we're delving into Laibel's extensive experience, gleaning insights from his mastery in storytelling, his emphasis on human connectivity, and his drive to create sustainable business models. Laibel discusses how his unique professional path—marked by genuine human connections and innovative practices—has shaped his approach to modern entrepreneurship. Get ready to explore the essence of what it means to complement your strengths with those around you, the importance of expressing gratitude, and the power of vulnerability in business settings. Laibel also sheds light on his systematic approach to scaling creative processes and the success of his new venture, "Everyone Needs a Video." How can surrounding oneself with individuals who have complementary strengths positively impact business success? What role does genuine human connection play in creating impactful video content? How did Laibel Schwartz transition from wedding photography to establishing a thriving video content business during the COVID-19 pandemic? Why is maintaining authenticity in business presentations critical, and how can it prevent customer disappointment? https://ptex.co/pandadoc http://www.laibel.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/laibelschwartz/ 00:00:00 - Leibel Schwartz: Inspiring journey in business creativity 00:03:37 - She learned photography; built successful wedding brand 00:06:17 - Discussing weddings, innovation in established industries 00:11:14 - Product vs. experience: exceptional service makes difference 00:15:13 - Connecting through storytelling creates lasting bonds 00:16:35 - B2B transactions feel less personal than weddings 00:20:40 - Adapt, innovate, build trust; seize unique opportunities 00:25:08 - Systematizing creativity is challenging but possible 00:27:47 - Perfecting style through detailed training process 00:32:22 - Agility is key: Avoid overcomplicating processes 00:35:45 - Learning and engaging beyond expertise level's norm 00:37:09 - CEOs exchanged insights from diverse industries collaboratively 00:42:14 - Being vulnerable helps relate to others 00:43:01 - Found a truly human-centered, connected company 00:46:23 - Emotional freedom achieved in real estate startups 00:52:13 - Authenticity and storytelling strengthen professional relationships 00:53:09 - Share episode, rate, subscribe to Let's Talk Business Laibel Schwartz emphasizes the balance between technical skills and emotional connection in his photography business. He maintains humility in his personal life while being outgoing professionally, which helps him connect deeply with clients and offer a personalized experience. This theme highlights the need for authenticity alongside professional demands in client interactions. Laibel Schwartz highlights the necessity of genuine business representation to prevent customer disappointment. He advocates for traditional photography over Photoshop to preserve authenticity in headshots. This belief centers on the idea that authenticity builds trust and connection with clients, fostering long-term relationships instead of short-term misrepresentations. Laibel Schwartz emphasizes the impact of gratitude and personal stories on workplace dynamics, especially in healthcare projects. His approach highlights the importance of storytelling and emotional engagement to strengthen connections among employees and clients, enhancing both the work environment and relationships. Schwartz and Hoffman highlight how storytelling enhances real estate projects by fostering emotional connections rather than mere transactions. Schwartz mentions a project at Pure Village that reflects developers' personal dreams. They argue that authentic storytelling in marketing deeply resonates with potential clients, making projects more attractive. Meny Hoffman and Laibel Schwartz highlight society’s focus on weaknesses over strengths and recommend surrounding oneself with those who have complementary strengths. Laibel also notes that valuing others’ skills and giving compliments can enhance positivity, emphasizing the importance of recognizing individual strengths.

In today's episode of Let's Talk Business, we're thrilled to revisit an enlightening discussion on the intricate balance between personal charisma and business branding. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he dives deep with Bentzi Elkouby, an accomplished entrepreneur who transformed a friend's coaching business into a flourishing enterprise without any prior business experience.   Bentzi shares his inspiring journey from the UK to the US, where he saw the potential in English language coaching for non-native speakers, especially in sectors like high tech and outsourced work. He discusses the pivotal strategies he used to scale his company sustainably, ensuring financial accountability and operational efficiency, and emphasizes the significance of creating both personal and business mission statements to enhance interactions and delineate boundaries.   They discuss how Bentzi's company differentiates itself with a concierge-style service that prioritizes customer satisfaction over conventional language software. The conversation highlights strategic planning, cautious financial management, and the tailored approach of one-on-one coaching to maximize client success.   Moreover, Meny reveals his own experiences and struggles with work-life balance, branding, and scaling his business. He shares practical entrepreneurial advice, emphasizing the value of proving business concepts before expansion, managing employee loyalty, and the benefits of an "Innovation Hour" to explore automation and modernize business operations.   Tune in to gain invaluable insights on creating effective business processes, the power of delegation, and maintaining a strong professional network in today's dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. Whether you're an aspiring entrepreneur or a seasoned business owner, this episode is packed with actionable strategies and profound reflections that can help you navigate the complexities of both personal and professional growth.     00:06:17 - Understanding profit structures opens more opportunities 00:09:49 - Struggles with balancing work and fast turnover 00:12:50 - Emphasizing entrepreneurial passion and growth transition 00:13:35 - Course helps business leaders address growth challenges 00:19:42 - Empower employees, reward sales, redefine client trust 00:20:34 - Remote work boosts productivity and personal branding 00:23:39 - Understanding client pain points for effective marketing 00:27:22 - Separated personal and PTEX brands for focus 00:30:23 - Personal brand vs. broader company representation strategy 00:34:15 - Explaining progressive verb forms in English 00:39:47 - Jewish and British cultures share matchmaking practices 00:41:46 - Balance: prioritize 100% where needed, communicate effectively 00:44:41 - Business isn't for everyone; consider alternatives 00:47:46 - Networking, feedback, skills drive growth and innovation   Pratical Pointers :  Bentzi emphasizes the importance of proving business concepts and ensuring financial stability before expanding. His story serves as a reminder that strategic planning and cautious financial management are crucial, particularly in people-oriented businesses, to achieve sustainable growth. The discussion highlights the challenges of managing dual identities as a business owner and public figure. Bentzi shares strategies for maintaining clear boundaries between personal charisma and professional expertise, illustrating how separate mission statements for personal and business brands can enhance both interactions. Bentzi’s success story illustrates the value of building and maintaining a strong professional network. Engaging with peers and mentors provides diverse perspectives and opportunities, which can be pivotal for personal growth and business success. Bentzi emphasizes that a customer-centric approach not only builds loyalty but also drives innovation by encouraging feedback and iteration. Transitioning from an ESL teacher to a successful entrepreneur, Bentzi highlights how constantly acquiring new skills and adapting to changing business landscapes can drive growth and innovation.  

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to revisit an inspiring discussion with Isaac Bardos, a renowned business coach, public speaker, and former college athlete. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode delves into Isaac's remarkable journey from being underestimated to achieving success in various fields. Isaac shares his transformative experience of discovering his public speaking talent during a high-stakes college Shabbaton, turning a perceived weakness into a powerful strength. This narrative underscores the potential that lies within challenging moments and the transformative power of necessity. Listeners will gain valuable insights into rethinking leadership and personal growth, as Isaac discusses how upbringing and personal choices shape our paths. The episode highlights the importance of resilience, relatability, and the learnable nature of leadership, encouraging even those hesitant to lead to cultivate impactful leadership skills. Additionally, Isaac shares practical strategies for business growth, emphasizing the significance of genuine engagement, financial literacy, and the role of vulnerability in fostering innovation and trust within teams. Through compelling anecdotes and expert advice, this episode offers actionable strategies for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs to harness their hidden talents and navigate challenges with purpose and resilience. Tune in to explore how embracing vulnerability and maintaining focus can drive both personal and business success. Whether you're an emerging leader or an established business owner, this episode is packed with insights to help you unlock your full potential.   00:00:00 - Discovering Your Calling 00:12:09 - Leading With Purpose and Resilience 00:24:06 - Metrics and Scaling for Business Growth 00:35:11 - Mastering Focus and Adaptation in Business 00:40:32 - Embracing Vulnerability for Business Growth 00:49:22 - Effective Leadership and Business Strategies   Pratical Pointers : “Having a calling” doesn’t mean that you’re going to save the world; it means that you find yourself in a certain situation at a certain time - and you showed up and did what had to be done. Leadership is effective when a leader demonstrates empathy by showing up, participating, and above all listening. That will encourage your employees to follow where you lead them more than simply issuing orders from above. Although leaders like being seen as the experts who know everything, people will look to you for guidance and open up to you if you are willing to be vulnerable and open up to them, too. Great business leaders are like great coaches: they look at themselves and their opponents in order to discover the patterns. If you’re not sure where something is going, zoom out, notice the patterns, and that will help you figure out the most appropriate steps to take and what steps to avoid.

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to revisit an enlightening discussion on the interconnected world of real estate financing with the knowledgeable Yankie Markowitz, CEO of SBA Loan Group. Hosted by Meny Hoffman, this episode revisits Yankie's remarkable journey from encountering challenges in obtaining SBA loans to successfully facilitating over $600 million in real estate transactions. Yankie's dedication to empowering small businesses shines through as he shares his deep expertise on navigating SBA loan programs, particularly the flexible 7A and the asset-driven 504, both crucial tools in real estate financing. Throughout this insightful conversation, Yankie stresses the vital importance of financial literacy for business owners, covering essential topics such as tax returns, cash flow, and the strategic decision-making process of purchasing versus renting property. The episode also incorporates valuable perspectives from financial expert Dave Ramsey and underscores the necessity of maintaining financial clarity through regular accountant consultations. Listeners will be inspired by Yankie's values of hospitality, rooted in his upbringing, and the significant role of generosity and community in building meaningful relationships. Whether you're an experienced entrepreneur or just beginning your journey, this episode is packed with insights and actionable strategies for leveraging real estate to drive business growth and financial stability. Tune in to discover how to master business finance and make strategic real estate decisions that foster financial success.   00:01:34 - Small Business Financing With Yankie Markowitz 00:03:31 - Government-Funded SBA Loan Program Overview 00:08:01 - Small Business Financing Options 00:09:20 - Real Estate Financing and SBA Loans 00:12:31 - SBA Lending to Startups 00:21:32 - Educating Business Owners on Risk 00:22:20 - Real Estate Investment vs. Company Ownership 00:26:51 - Strategic Real Estate Growth and Profit 00:27:29 - Real Estate Financing Decision Dilemma 00:31:02 - Real Estate Financing for Business Growth 00:33:22 - Understanding Business Owners Through Numbers 00:36:46 - Optimizing Inventory and Maximizing Profits 00:37:11 - Understanding Numbers and Strategic Business Planning 00:43:47 - People, Process, Product in Business 00:49:02 - Personal Background and Hospitality Values   One of the safest bets is that real estate appreciates over time - almost no matter what. It may take a while before it happens, but if your business can afford to do so, be your own landlord and own your own facility.    Every business owner hopes and expects to grow as quickly as possible. When investing in real estate - or, frankly, anything - keep this in mind so that you don’t find yourself with a ten year commitment to a building that you outgrow in half that time.    Make sure to speak to your accountant at least once a quarter, and prepare an interim financial statement for that period. Being ignorant of your actual numbers is one of the biggest mistakes you can make, so avoid the problem by regularly updating your statements and being aware of what those numbers really mean.    If you’re a business owner, you can outsource a lot but you can’t outsource the fundamental strategy of where the company is going to go, and what goals it has to reach.

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we are thrilled to revisit an enlightening discussion on the interconnected realms of SEO, spirituality, and personal development. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Stephan Spencer, a renowned SEO expert, author, and podcaster who integrates his profound spiritual beliefs into his professional life. Stephan Spencer’s journey transcends traditional business success. As the founder of Netconcepts and author of multiple books on SEO, Stephan has worked with some of the world's largest brands including Volvo and Sony, optimizing their online presence. In this episode, He discusses the importance of aligning personal values with professional goals, and how maintaining a mindset open to miracles can influence business growth and success. The conversation also delves deep into practical SEO strategies. Stephan emphasizes the necessity of integrating SEO from the planning stages of website development and using tools like Moz, Ahrefs, and Semrush for competitive keyword research. Stephan elaborates on the risks of depending solely on third-party platforms and the benefits of maintaining content on personal blogs or resource centers. He offers advice on developing linkable assets and ensuring proper setup of Google Search Console and Analytics to track performance.   00:04:24 - Balancing SEO expertise with spiritual purpose pursuits. 00:07:51 - SEO builds enduring assets; PPC has limitations. 00:10:04 - Research keywords, plan content, build linkable assets. 00:13:26 - Combine text with visuals for engaging content. 00:18:48 - Own your content; don't rely on platforms. 00:22:03 - Ensure Google accounts and tools are set up. 00:25:42 - Substantiated SEO case studies with detailed results. 00:27:15 - Free SEO hiring guide and interview tools available. 00:32:55 - Synchronicities increase with benevolence, creating cycles. 00:35:15 - Personal growth starts within, influences others. 00:38:01 - Optimize SEO: Research keywords, prioritize user-friendly content.     When you plan to redesign your website and you want to make sure that you’re optimizing your SEO, research keywords in advance using tools such as Semrush or Moz Keyword Explorer, in order to identify keywords that your competitors are ranking in, and you’re not. Too many companies work so hard at search engine optimization that they make their sites keyword-rich, but also extremely boring and unhelpful. What should you do? Use those keywords, have rich and valuable content, but avoid a long wall of text. Instead, use short sentences and short paragraphs, while adding lots of imagery, screen shots, pull quotes, and YouTube embeds. That’s the way you can have the best of both worlds. If you hire a professional firm to help you with SEO, don’t just look for a referrals page; look for a results page, with actual numbers that you can analyze. Ideally, this should include case studies explaining the background information, the solution, and results that substantiate the claims that the company makes. You should also be able to take the firm’s clients’ URLs and use various tools to verify that the results are to your satisfaction. Social media presents two obvious problems: first, you’re subject to the rules and whims of the social media companies, and second, no one looks at posts from last month. So turn your social media posts into blog entries on your website- but call them something else, like a research center, academy, or university. Make sure to organize them by subject rather than by date, so that it won’t matter how long they’ve been up.  

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're excited to bring back an insightful conversation focusing on the significance of systems and processes in scaling a business. Join your host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Chris Ronzio, the founder and CEO of Trainual, a SaaS platform dedicated to small business onboarding, training, and scaling. Chris started his entrepreneurial journey at the age of 14 with a video production company, learning valuable lessons about business processes early on. Now, as the author of "The Business Playbook" and the host of his own podcasts, Chris shares his expertise on the importance of proper systems, processes, and delegation for business growth. In this episode, Chris explains how Trainual, which has grown to 81 employees in just four years, uses detailed Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to manage its rapid growth and ensure consistency. He discusses why managing growth can often be more challenging than achieving it, due to the necessity of clear processes and effective delegation. Chris shares valuable insights on the entrepreneurial journey, moving from performing all tasks alone to efficiently using tools and collaborating with team members. He highlights the complexity of managing team dynamics and the importance of creating long-term value and structure over getting stuck in everyday tasks. Additionally, Chris emphasizes the power of delegation, outlining the differences between delegating tasks and delegating responsibilities. He offers practical advice on creating effective SOPs, ensuring clear expectations, and training team members for better accountability   00:02:00 - Transitioned roles, built systems; founded Trainual later. 00:05:39 - Managing growth is harder than starting businesses. 00:09:11 - Entrepreneurs scale by delegating and focusing long-term. 00:10:15 - Leaders focus on unique, non-delegable tasks. 00:15:25 - Delegate responsibilities, not tasks; ensure comprehensive training. 00:19:49 - Onboarding confirms or ruins new employees' initial experience. 00:20:46 - Offer $5,000 for employees to quit early. 00:25:20 - Importance of context, timing, success, and steps. 00:28:42 - Business change frequency influenced by industry pace, hiring. 00:30:58 - Delegation crucial early; formalize roles with growth. Chris Ronzio is the founder and CEO of Trainual, a leading SaaS platform that transforms the way small businesses onboard, train and scale their teams. Chris is the host of “The Fastest Growing Companies” and “Organize Chaos” podcasts as well as the author of the best-selling book “The Business Playbook – How to Document and Delegate What You Do So Your Company Can Grow Beyond You.”   http://www.trainual.com/ http://www.thebusinessplaybook.com/ https://www.ptex.co/pandadoc

In today's rerun episode of Let's Talk Business, we're excited to bring back an insightful conversation with a marketing legend who has helped generate billions in revenue for major brands. Join our host, Meny Hoffman, as he sits down with Gerry O’Brion—author, speaker, and advisor—to delve into the powerful strategies and insights that have shaped Gerry's remarkable career. Gerry has worked with household names like Procter & Gamble, Coors Lite, and Red Robin. He is known for his innovative marketing concepts, such as the color-changing mountains on Coors Lite bottles. In this episode, Gerry shares his expertise on how small businesses can stand out in competitive markets without massive marketing budgets. Gerry O'Brion emphasizes the power of word-of-mouth referrals and decreased training times by specializing in specific areas, such as Volkswagen car repairs. He explains that small businesses can learn from large brands by listening to and gathering insights from customers to understand their choices and preferences. A significant challenge in influencing customer decisions lies in external factors and the credibility of a company's claims. Gerry highlights the necessity of providing proof for business promises—referred to as the "because" factor—which helps differentiate a company from its competition and assures customers they're making the right choice. O’Brion promotes his book "They Buy Your Because," offering additional resources through his website, and underscores the value of consistent brand messaging across all platforms. He also discusses the role of inspirational "why" messages internally while stressing the importance of clear and unique value propositions in customer-facing communications. Key insights include the need for small businesses to identify unique aspects of their offerings, ask why existing customers choose them over the competition, and tailor their approach to varied sales scenarios. These strategies, coupled with understanding customer mindsets and problems, enhance a small business’s ability to succeed in a crowded market.   00:04:51 - Focus efforts, refine niche, demonstrate unique value. 00:09:25 - Proof distinguishes your promise from marketing fluff. 00:12:45 - Helping businesses find their "because" for differentiation. 00:14:22 - What makes your business exceptional? List specifics. 00:17:01 - Strategically structure website for effective visitor engagement. 00:22:43 - Varied outreach methods tailored to listener's company. 00:26:06 - Innovative weed control additive for resistant pests. 00:28:47 - Understand and address decision maker's real concerns. 00:30:51 - Optimize messaging sequence based on consumer insights. 00:34:30 - Narrow your focus to grow faster financially. 00:38:50 - Ensure audience targeting, understanding, outcomes, and credibility. 00:42:42 - Identify clients, unique value, and effective persuasion. 00:43:44 - Focus on delivering a unique, authentic because.   The first question a business owner needs to ask is, Where do my current clients come from - and where can I find more like them? Many times, the answer is in small niches where people already value what you offer. That means that the next question you need to ask is, What does your business bring to the table that the bigger competitor doesn’t bring or can’t bring? And the third question which follows is, What is the most effective way of convincing those potential clients that you offer something that bigger companies do not? The biggest mistake that companies make when it comes to marketing, is making promises without also giving the “Because” - meaning, the reason that you will be able to keep your promise. Promises without a “because” sound like empty marketing fluff. Promises with a “because” offer a compelling reason for a potential client to choose you instead of someone else. The following exercise is very important: Write down, “You should buy from us instead of from our competitors because- “ and complete the sentence with your authentic answer. If your answer sounds the same as any of your competitors, you’re just adding to your customers’ confusion, when they actually want certainty that they’re making the right decision. So think long and hard about the “because” that will make your business unique while remaining true to what you can actually do. Many people confuse their “Because” with their “Why” - and that’s a big mistake. Your “Why” is the reason that you do what you do, and is a type of mission statement that can inspire you and your employees. But when you’re selling something and a customer is about to give you money, he doesn’t care about your “Why”; he cares about your “Because” - meaning, what you do differently from everyone else, and how you can deliver that unique aspect to your client. When you talk about your “Because,” you are giving your client the certainty that buying from you is the right choice.  The main thing that big companies do better than small companies is listening and learning from their customers. Understanding the mindset of the people you serve is the foundation of all influence. So act like the big companies, and learn to ask questions. Make surveys. Go to the people who chose your competitor instead of you and ask them why they made that decision. Getting this information will help you better focus on how to close the next sale.   Gerry Website Linkedin They Buy Your Because Panda Doc

Chaim shares invaluable insights on setting clear financial goals, long-term planning, and budgeting, especially in the face of today's high inflation and living costs. We explore the psychology of credit card and debit card spending, particularly within large families and among frequent traveler Tune in to hear real-life success stories and rapid-fire advice on impactful books and personal aspirations. This episode promises to transform your financial life with practical wisdom and proven strategies for responsible spending and long-term savings. Get ready to be inspired and empowered to achieve financial freedom with expert advice from Chaim.   Episode Links:  TauberSolutions.com Chaim WhatsApp Panda Doc 00:06:10 - Clear budgeting reveals unnecessary expenses and savings. 00:09:22 - Mindset difference in spending: Credit vs. Debit. 00:12:39 - Use debit card; keep credit card handy. 00:14:49 - Switching to debit saved millionaire $180,000 yearly. 00:18:12 - Knowing numbers helps identify and solve problems. 00:21:31 - Spouses often hide finances to avoid judgment. 00:23:34 - Start financial conversations with spouse to reach goals. 00:28:03 - Rents and home prices skyrocketing, mortgages increasing. 00:31:44 - Teach youth to save with small incentives. 00:35:46 - Emergency fund enables focus on family health. 00:37:24 - Stocks as gambling; possible gains or losses. 00:40:44 - Adapted Dave Ramsey’s principles for Haimisha lifestyle. 00:43:29 - Clients achieve financial independence in six months. 00:46:49 - Use high yield savings accounts; identify goals.   Practical Pointers from this episode : Take inspiration from real-life success stories of individuals who achieved financial freedom through disciplined saving and smart financial planning. This can provide motivation and practical strategies for your own financial journey. Focus on paying off high-interest debts first, such as credit card balances. Once these are cleared, you can allocate more funds towards savings and investments. If you need to build or improve your credit, use credit cards strategically for essential purchases and always pay on time. This helps build a positive credit history without falling into debt traps. For long-term savings goals, consider high-yield savings accounts or mutual funds, such as the S&P 500, to grow your money more effectively. Begin by identifying your long-term financial goals. Whether it's paying off debt, saving for a house, or preparing for retirement, having a clear vision helps in creating a focused financial plan.