The Entrepreneur's Logbook: Lessons from Growing Businesses

In this episode of The Entrepreneur's Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard sits down with Jamie Uppenberg, co-founder of Runway Group, a specialized firm helping FinTech startups navigate complex regulatory landscapes while building scalable compliance programs. As a former chief compliance officer at five different FinTech companies, Jamie brings rare operational expertise to an industry often dominated by theoretical approaches. Jamie shares her hard-won insights on the two critical mistakes that sink most FinTech startups: either over-investing in product perfection while neglecting marketing, or the inverse—building impressive marketing campaigns without a solid product foundation. She emphasizes the importance of finding the MVP sweet spot and maintaining disciplined spending, especially as investment dollars have tightened in recent years. The conversation dives deep into Runway's unique methodology for building compliance programs from the ground up. Unlike traditional consultants who come from legal or regulatory backgrounds, Jamie's team has actually lived inside FinTech operations, understanding how these fast-moving companies actually function. Rather than overwhelming clients with every compliance gap at once, they create prioritized roadmaps that tackle the highest-risk areas first—typically starting with anti-money laundering and financial crimes prevention—while ensuring companies can maintain revenue and growth momentum. Jamie explains how her approach differs from document-heavy compliance programs, focusing instead on operational excellence: "Can you do what this document says?" This practical methodology helps FinTech companies build programs that actually work when regulators and banking partners come asking for proof of compliance activities, not just policies on paper. The discussion also explores Runway's integrated model, where compliance consulting works hand-in-hand with specialized FinTech legal counsel and strategic advisory services. This collaborative approach eliminates the common problem of conflicting advice from different vendors, allowing the team to synthesize legal requirements, operational realities, and strategic positioning into cohesive recommendations. For founders considering building compliance programs in-house, Jamie offers crucial hiring advice: look for professionals who can build systems "with a Google Suite and a dream"—not just those accustomed to enterprise-level resources. She stresses the importance of objective reporting and clear communication about program progress, warning against purely anecdotal updates that leave leadership in the dark about their actual compliance status. Whether you're launching a payments platform, building lending infrastructure, or creating the next generation of financial services, this episode provides actionable insights for navigating the regulatory challenges that can make or break FinTech ventures in today's environment. Contact Information Jamie Uppenberg – Runway Group LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamie-uppenberg Website: https://rnwy.group/ Zachary Bernard – We Feature You PR Chapters (00:00:00) - The Entrepreneurs Logbook Podcast(00:00:51) - Fintech Compliance Expert Jamie Uppenberg(00:01:45) - What's the One Thing All Startups Get Wrong?(00:03:57) - How to Find The Right Balance For Your Company(00:04:47) - Have You Got the Money to Grow?(00:06:05) - How To Get Fintech Companies To Be Compliant With the(00:11:26) - WSJD Live: The Fintech Compliance Program(00:16:38) - What to Know Before Hiring a Compliance Program Designer?(00:19:21) - Expertise in Fintech at Runway Consulting(00:24:58) - How to Reach Jamie Uppenberg on Podcast

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook: Lessons from Growing Businesses, Zachary Bernard speaks with Axel Meierhoefer, founder of Ideal Wealth Grower. Axel, a former Air Force officer turned real estate investor, walks us through the “Ideal Wealth System” he developed after navigating a complex 1031 exchange during the Great Recession. Together, they tackle the common missteps new investors make, namely, focusing on individual properties rather than building a robust network of inspectors, lenders, property managers, and turnkey providers. Axel explains why performance, cash flow and returns, should trump the age-old mantra of “location, location, location,” and how securing one-year warranties and vetted partnerships can shield investors from unexpected repair bills, especially when they’re managing assets from thousands of miles away.   Zachary and Axel then dive into the mindset shift required to become the “king or queen of your own empire.” By treating each investment portfolio as a business, clients learn to assemble a team of “employees”, from appraisers to contractors, who work on their behalf, freeing them to focus on strategic growth. Axel breaks down the concept of the Time Freedom Point, guiding listeners through a simple exercise to calculate their monthly expenses, project cash-flow goals, and determine how many properties they’ll need to achieve true financial independence. He also shares how steady rent increases and paid-off mortgages compound over time, turning a modest real estate portfolio into a multi-million-dollar empire that funds your lifestyle on your own terms. Whether you’re just curious about real estate or ready to build passive income, this episode offers actionable insights for professionals seeking to escape the time-for-money trap.   Contact Information   Axel Meierhoefer – Ideal Wealth Grower Website: https://idealwealthgrower.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ameierhoefer/   Zachary Bernard – We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ https://zacharybernard.com/   Want press/podcast/TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com Chapters (00:00:00) - The Entrepreneur's Lockbook: Where to Start Your Business(00:01:11) - Axel Mayhofer(00:02:10) - What Would You Do Different in the Franchise Industry?(00:03:37) - Real Estate Network(00:12:05) - Real Estate Wealth Group(00:17:40) - Financial Freedom and Investing(00:25:48) - How to retire on a $10,000 a month income(00:27:35) - "When Will I Reach My Time Freedom Point?"(00:33:58) - How To Get In Touch With The Wealth Grower

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook: Lessons from Growing Businesses, Zachary Bernard speaks with Patrick Burns, founder of Patrick Burns Co., a B2B brand-building and revenue-generating agency that helps companies accelerate their go-to-market efforts with strategic digital marketing. After cutting his teeth at two tech startups and earning a degree from Indiana University in 2014, Patrick launched his own firm in 2016. Since then, he’s amassed over 100,000 followers, generated millions of content views, and closed six-figure deals with industry giants like PwC, CVS, Honeywell, and State Street.   Patrick lays out his playbook for rapid, intent-driven growth. He walks through how his team uses a sophisticated technology stack—powered by tools like Clay for outbound campaigns and AI-driven workflows in ChatGPT—to identify prospects showing real purchase signals before engaging them. By splitting roles among dedicated specialists (an account manager, a marketing copywriter/tech operator and an SDR), Patrick ensures every campaign is executed with precision, high deliverability and messaging honed for conversion. On the content side, he shares why a blend of authentic thought leadership and emotionally driven, algorithm-friendly posts builds brand awareness without unrealistic lead-generation expectations, and how a consistent two-week publishing sprint can quickly book qualified inbound meetings.   Contact Information Patrick Burns – Patrick Burns Co. Website: https://www.patrickburns.co/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickburnsco1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/patrickburnsco/ Twitter: https://x.com/patrickburnsco   Zachary Bernard – We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ | https://zacharybernard.com/ Want press / podcast / TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com Chapters (00:00:00) - What would you do to grow your business faster?(00:00:35) - The Entrepreneurs Logbook Podcast(00:01:43) - What Would You Do To Build Your Startup From scratch?(00:03:17) - How To Get a Lead Out of Your Campaigns(00:05:23) - Cold Outbound vs. Outbound(00:06:38) - How to Create Content That Drives Results(00:10:21) - How To Structure Your Outbound Campaigns(00:12:03) - How to hire the right talent with AI(00:14:47) - How To Market Yourself to the Technology Industry(00:16:37) - Lead Generation: The Outbound Side

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook: Lessons from Growing Businesses, Zachary Bernard speaks with James Onyks, CEO of Ohana Avertising. James walks us through his journey from launching Ohana in 2021 to building a full-service digital agency that blends creative storytelling with strategic growth. Early on, he learned the hard way that every founder needs a dedicated project manager from day one, a role he skipped and paid for by getting bogged down in fulfillment rather than sales and expansion. Drawing on ten years in marketing and a unique New York-to-Portugal perspective, James shares how he pivoted from straight ad management to offering fractional CMO services, helping enterprise clients craft holistic growth roadmaps without the overhead of an in-house hire.   Throughout the conversation, James breaks down real-world wins, like repositioning a product so it could sell in metropolitan bathtubs and driving a 30% sales uplift, and explains why creative strategy is just as vital as ad spend. He reveals his hiring philosophy of bringing on mid- to senior-level experts who need little hand-holding and deliver immediate impact, and how Ohana’s month-to-month, no-contract model builds trust and long-term partnerships. James even unveils the sentimental story behind the “Ohana” name, reminding him that business exists to support family, not the other way around. Tune in for actionable tips on scaling your agency, honing your offer, and becoming the proactive growth partner every business owner needs.   Contact Information James Onyks – Ohana Advertising Website: https://ohanameansbusiness.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/digital-advertiser/   Zachary Bernard – We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/ Want press, podcast or TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com Chapters (00:00:00) - The Entrepreneur's Lockbook Podcast(00:00:49) - Interview(00:01:58) - What is the one thing that you would implement from day one of(00:03:48) - Fractional CMO Services(00:06:11) - How To Build a Growth Partner's Business(00:10:32) - How to Build a Creative Strategy(00:11:35) - How To Hire the Right Marketing Team(00:15:18) - How To Differentiate Yourself From The Competition(00:18:30) - The Ohana Logo

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook, Zachary Bernard speaks with Tiffany Coletti Kaiser, CEO of Apiary Digital, about rethinking the traditional agency model and building something that scales on its own terms. Drawing on more than two decades of leadership in tech, CPG, and beyond, Tiffany explains why productizing your core service, finding that lowest common denominator clients really need, and packaging it as a turnkey solution is the fastest path to sustained growth. She and Zach discuss how a transparent, honest approach with clients (even being the first to say “we might not be the right fit for you”) not only builds trust but drives an industry-leading 98% client return rate and generates referrals that keep the pipeline full.Tiffany then takes us inside Apiary Digital’s unique “apiary” collective: a senior-only bench of specialists who flex in and out of projects based on client needs, living their own lives while delivering half a billion leads each year. She shares concrete examples, from codifying executive LinkedIn thought-leadership offerings to diagnosing hidden funnel issues behind underperforming campaigns, and why measuring outcomes (leads, revenue impact) rather than vanity metrics (total ad spend) makes all the difference. Whether you’re launching a boutique consultancy or retooling an established shop, her hive-inspired model highlights the power of putting humanity and clear deliverables at the center of your growth strategy.Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on how to: 1) carve out a repeatable, productized service that clients instantly understand; 2) assemble a network of experienced consultants who thrive under a flexible, transparent partnership; and 3) shift conversations from “how much can you spend?” to “what outcome do you really need?” Tune in for a fresh take on sustainable scaling, plain spoken, deeply human, and built to free you from the endless hunt for new business. Contact InformationTiffany Coletti Kaiser – Apiary Digital Website: https://apiarydigital.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanycolettikaiser Zachary Bernard – We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ | https://zacharybernard.com/ Want press, podcast, or TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com Chapters (00:00:00) - How to Scale With a Small Company(00:00:42) - The Entrepreneur's Lockbook Podcast(00:01:51) - What's the One Thing You'd Do to Reboot Your Company(00:03:35) - Possible Productization in the B2B(00:11:53) - Pushing the Minimum Experience Level at Apiary(00:18:28) - McKinsey: It's not about the Money we manage,(00:23:14) - What Makes Apiary Different?(00:29:20) - PODCAST: The Power of Podcasts

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook Podcast, Zachary Bernard speaks with Ashley Brown and Brianna Watson, co-founders of Impressions Visionary Solutions. From the outset, Ashley and Brianna emphasize the importance of “building the system, not the service.” Rather than diving headfirst into client work, they recommend first mapping a clear, intentional client journey, from inquiry and onboarding through delivery, using simple tools and workflows. As entrepreneurs test their offerings with early clients, patterns emerge. Those insights then inform the refinement of processes, creating space for creativity and minimizing the chaos of firefighting.   The conversation turns next to how AI and automation can amplify rather than erase the human element. Ashley and Brianna make a passionate case for preserving empathy at every step: pinpointing where clients need to feel seen and heard, then designing automations that support those moments without sacrificing genuine connection. They walk us through their approach, istening for each customer’s friction points, mapping the story of a purchase path, and automating repetitive tasks so teams can focus on high-value, human-driven work.   Finally, Ashley and Brianna tackle one of the biggest pitfalls in scaling service-based businesses: platform overload. They caution against chasing every shiny new tool and urge leaders to audit needs by department, choosing fewer, well-integrated solutions rather than a thousand half-used apps. Above all, Impressions Visionary Solutions stands out by leading with depth and authenticity, blending strategy with soul to help small and mid-sized businesses scale intelligently, efficiently, and empathetically.   Contact Information Ashley Brown and Brianna Watson • Impressions Visionary Solutions Website: https://www.impressionsvs.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianna-l-watson/ + https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleybrowncreative/   Zachary Bernard • We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ https://zacharybernard.com/ Want press, podcast or TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com! Chapters (00:00:00) - The Entrepreneur's Lockbook Podcast(00:00:55) - How to Build a Beautiful Business With AI & Intelligent Automation(00:01:50) - What Would You Do To Build a Startup From Day 1?(00:04:53) - Ashley and Brian on Their Split(00:05:40) - How To Automate Processes With Human Touch(00:10:01) - Will AI Amplify Human Touch in Design?(00:15:12) - Tech Stack Confusion(00:20:43) - How To Market Your AI-based Sales & Marketing

In this episode of The Entrepreneur’s Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard speaks with Rachel Phillips, founder and CEO of Fully Accountable. Rachel shares her journey from intern to CEO of one of Inc. 5000’s fastest-growing finance firms, serving over 600 clients and managing more than $7 billion in revenue. Together, they dive into why digital-first businesses—from e-commerce shops to SaaS providers—benefit from a fractional CFO model that combines hands-on bookkeeping with proactive financial strategy. Rachel explains how having an outsider’s perspective helps benchmark performance, optimize cash flow, and turn data into growth opportunities.   Throughout the conversation, Rachel underscores the power of granular analysis. She recounts a case where a client ran 25 ad campaigns but was only profitable on seven—redistributing budgets increased their margin from 10% to 38%. They also discuss the idea of a “living” operational budget that pivots with daily ad costs and seasonality, and pinpoint the revenue thresholds (around $3.5 – $5 million) when bringing on a CFO really pays off. Rachel’s parting advice: ditch the Excel-only approach in favor of a proper general ledger system and invest in the right financial talent before accounting tasks eat up more of your time than growing the business.   ❇️ Key Topics with Timestamps 1. Rachel’s Career Path & Fully Accountable Overview – 00:02:00 2. Benefits of Fractional CFO Services – 00:03:00 3. Granular, Data-Driven Marketing Profitability (Case Study) – 00:06:00 4. When to Bring on a Fractional CFO – 00:13:00 5. Financial Management Tips for Business Owners – 00:19:00   Contact Information Rachel Phillips - Fully Accountable Website: https://fullyaccountable.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-phillips-ohio CFO Toolkit: https://fullyaccountable.com/cfo-toolkit/   Zachary Bernard - We Feature You PR LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Websites: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/ Want press/podcast/TV features? Visit wefeatureyou.com Chapters (00:00:00) - Getting a granular view of a company's revenue(00:00:40) - Rachel Phillips on The Entrepreneurs Logbook(00:02:32) - Does a Fractional CFO Matter?(00:04:37) - How To Make Money on a Digital Business(00:07:19) - What's The Unique Challenges That E-Commerce and Digital Businesses(00:15:02) - How to Get a CFO on Your Team(00:17:46) - Taking Control of Your Business's Financials(00:19:51) - CFO on CFO Network

In this episode of The Entrepreneur's Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard sits down with Matthew Uber, founder and CEO of Spinwheel BDC, a strategic consulting firm specializing in sales development, business development, and management solutions.    Matthew shares his unconventional journey from high school dropout to sales leader, building remote sales teams before COVID made it mainstream, and scaling Spinwheel to over 75 employees. With 15+ years in sales, Matthew reveals why mindset trumps skillset, how he proved SDR teams work in "impossible" industries, and his surprising take on AI's role in the future of sales. Key Takeaways Sales Success Formula Success comes from three pillars: pitch, pace, or attitude Mindset management is harder to teach than sales skills Rejection resilience matters more than smooth talking Remote Sales Revolution Matthew built virtual sales teams in automotive (traditionally face-to-face) starting in 2018 COVID gave his already-remote team an "unfair advantage" over competitors Virtual selling opened access to hungry talent nationwide and internationally Spinwheel BDC's Hiring Philosophy Look for personality traits over resume credentials: hunger, student mentality, thick skin, self-awareness Everyone starts at ground level (SDR) regardless of experience Promote based on merit: appointment setting → presenting/closing → leadership Business Agility Never get too married to your original idea Matthew's business has "changed 100+ times" since 2020 Fast, intuitive decisions combined with a willingness to adjust AI's Future in Sales AI will inevitably affect sales, but won't completely replace human connection Consumers may resist AI interactions due to trust/negotiation concerns AI calling costs currently prohibitive, but technology advancing rapidly Quality of AI sales depends on quality of human training it receives Proven Growth Strategy Start with one SDR to prove concept, then scale Homegrown talent often outperforms expensive hires (100% quota achievement rate) SDR-to-AE promotion path reduces costs while improving results   Contact Information Chapters (00:00:00) - Entrepreneurs Logbook(00:01:13) - How to Get Out of Debt in Sales(00:03:44) - The Shift from Office to Remote Sales(00:06:54) - Virtual Sales: The Challenges(00:09:53) - How To Develop the Future of Sales(00:13:14) - How To Hire the Right Salesperson(00:16:41) - Building a Sales Development Team(00:19:43) - How to Manage the Mindset of a Salesperson(00:21:26) - How to Get Out of Rut(00:24:05) - Salespeople: How AI Will Affect Us(00:29:32) - Matt Spinwell on How to Reach Out to People

In this episode of the Entrepreneur Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard sits down with Joey Price, President and CEO of Jumpstart HR, an award-winning HR consulting and technology analyst firm. With nearly two decades of HR experience, Joey has transformed from an HR assistant to a respected voice in the industry, authoring "The Power of HR" and delivering TEDx presentations. Joey shares his unique journey from kinesiology to HR, revealing how he shifted from helping athletes perform their best on ball fields to helping professionals excel in corporate settings. The conversation dives deep into the three Ps of business (profit, people, and purpose), the evolving role of AI in HR, and why founders must view HR as a strategic investment rather than a cost center.   Episode Timestamps [00:00:00] Introduction and Joey's background in kinesiology  [00:01:23] Joey's mission: Making people more excited about Monday than Friday  [00:02:04] Career transition from exercise science to HR  [00:04:23] The three Ps: Profit, People, and Purpose - current challenges  [00:05:00] Technology's impact on people strategy and the need for balance  [00:06:00] The "buying, building, borrowing, or botting" framework  [00:07:50] The aha moment: Transitioning from lifestyle business to scalable company [00:11:00] Why HR isn't a cost center - the human capital perspective  [00:12:00] Tracking ROI on HR investments and interventions  [00:15:50] HR trends: AI recruitment and diversity equity being baked into processes  [00:17:00] AI recruiters enabling flexible interview scheduling  [00:19:35] Who should read "The Power of HR" book  [00:22:31] Key takeaway: People don't inherently share your enthusiasm - you must cultivate it   Get in Touch with Joey Price LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeyvprice/ Company: https://jumpstart-hr.com/ Book: https://a.co/d/fy7FVaG   Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/ Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/ Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com   Chapters (00:00:00) - What is the role of human capital in the workplace?(00:00:24) - Joey Price on Being More Excited About Mondays Than Fridays(00:01:52) - EHR In the Elevator(00:04:29) - The 3-D Business of People(00:10:51) - The Value of Investing in HR(00:15:37) - Top Trends in Technology for Business Owners(00:19:21) - In the Elevator With Brad Cogan(00:22:08) - How to Improve Your Company's HR Policies

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard speaks with Robin Mee, founder and CEO of MeeDerby, the nation's leading executive search firm specializing in staffing, professional services, and workforce solutions. What You'll Learn:- Robin's 36-year journey in the staffing industry and how she's kept her "why" focused on putting people to work one job at a time- How MeeDerby transitioned to remote work 15 years ago—far ahead of the industry curve- The seismic shift in workplace expectations post-COVID and how only 3% of staffing professionals want to return to full-time office work- Creating an authentic community and culture in a remote environment through intentional connection- How AI is transforming candidate screening, recruitment processes, and staffing efficiency- The importance of giving candidates and employees a choice in how they work and communicate- Leadership strategies that foster trust, empowerment, and work-life balance in remote teams- The staffing industry's evolution and Robin's bird's-eye view after working with thousands of staffing companies Key Quotes:- "My whole career has been about putting people to work... COVID was a real game-changer. Everybody was remote."- "83% of people want community at work, and you can do that inside of a remote organization."- "My recruiter is not getting through 120 candidates, but the AI absolutely can."- "AI is going to assist us to put more people to work more quickly."- "We focus on performance and empowerment because people want their voices heard." Connect with Robin Mee: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robinmee/Website: https://www.meederby.com/ About Robin Mee:Robin Mee has over 36 years of experience in the staffing industry and serves on the board of directors for the American Staffing Association. She has been inducted into the Staffing Industry Analysts' Leadership Hall of Fame and brings a unique perspective on industry trends, leadership dynamics, and technological transformation. Chapters (00:00:00) - How AI Will Help You Put People to Work(00:00:19) - Robin Mee Discusses the Workforce Solutions Ecosystem(00:03:31) - WSJD Live: The Changing Way of Working(00:07:10) - LinkedIn CEO on Remote Work(00:08:08) - Leaders on Remote Work(00:13:52) - Reasons for Remote Working(00:19:11) - How to Use AI in Staffing?(00:24:40) - The Job Search Experience With AI Agents(00:28:17) - Top Staffing Executives on the Future(00:32:51) - How to Get in Touch with Robin Mederby

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook Podcast, we sit down with Scott Beebe, Founder of Business On Purpose, a company dedicated to liberating business owners from chaos through systems, processes, and purpose-driven strategies. Episode Highlights: [00:01:00] Scott shares his diverse background, from telemarketing to pharmaceutical sales to pastoral work and eventually founding Business On Purpose. [00:03:00] The value of "reps" - how repeated experience in different environments builds the expertise needed to guide business owners. [00:05:00] Scott explains how chaos manifests in small businesses through common phrases like "I spend my whole day putting out fires" and "throwing Hail Marys just to get through the day." [00:07:00] The subtle ways chaos deceives business owners into believing "there's no other way" to run their operations. [00:09:00] How outside vendors should reduce chaos, not create more of it - a key principle when seeking help. [00:12:00] The importance of awareness moments that give business owners a "shot of joy" amidst the ongoing vigilance against chaos. [00:14:00] Scott shares the RPMs of great leadership: Repetition, Predictability, and Meaning - the framework for creating stability. [00:16:00] A powerful real-world example of chaos striking: two team members losing their fathers on the same day before a major event. [00:17:00] The 85-15 rule: How businesses should strive to predict 85% of what happens while allowing for the 15% that requires unique brilliance. [00:19:00] Thomas Edison's wisdom: "Vision without implementation is hallucination" - the critical importance of execution. [00:22:00] How Scott vets potential clients with a 26-point checklist and requires specific time commitments rather than accepting "whatever it takes" answers. [00:24:00] The danger of isolation for business owners and the value of community - "They come for the content, but they stay for the connection." [00:28:00] Scott's concept of "work worth doing" and how it shapes Business On Purpose's high-touch, relationship-based coaching model. [00:30:00] Final advice: Either commit to creating systems with repetition, predictability, and meaning, or "quit and get a job" - the honest truth about business ownership. Connect with Scott Beebe: Website: https://businessonpurpose.com/book Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/

In this episode of the Entrepreneur’s Logbook Podcast, we sit down with Ramy Khalil, CEO of Scimitar, a boutique management consulting firm dedicated to accelerating development timelines in the life science industry.Episode Highlights:[00:01:30] Ramy explains the breadth of the life science industry, covering pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, diagnostics, and medical devices.[00:03:00] A personal connection to healthcare innovation: Ramy shares how his father's heart attack and subsequent bypass surgery inspired his career path in medical device engineering.[00:07:30] The counterintuitive approach to development acceleration: Why non-technical disciplines often create the biggest efficiency gains before implementing technology solutions.[00:09:45] Case study: How Scimitar helped a client reduce regulatory submission time from 26 weeks to 12 weeks through process optimization.[00:11:30] The three core methodologies Scimitar applies are critical path project management, lean principles for knowledge work, and business process management.[00:16:30] Additional areas ripe for optimization across the life science value chain: site startups for clinical trials, manufacturing supply chain coordination, and commercial launch readiness.[00:20:00] Leadership team challenges: How Scimitar helps executives transition from "working in the business" to "working on the business" through operational efficiency.[00:25:30] Balancing speed with quality and compliance: Ramy's approach to maintaining high standards while avoiding unnecessary constraints that don't benefit patients.[00:31:00] Looking ahead: The role of AI in life sciences and how leaders should approach technology adoption through access, people strategy, and scaling with appropriate controls.Connect with Ramy Khalil:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ramy-khalil-392391/Website: www.scimitar.com–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode, we dive into the world of business growth and human-centered leadership with Charlie Saffro, President and founder of CS Recruiting. With over a decade of experience in the logistics, transportation, and supply chain industries, Charlie shares her journey from marketing professional to influential recruiter. She discusses her unique philosophy that 'business is personal,' the challenges of remote work, and the importance of genuine human connections in the workplace. Listen in to gain valuable insights on talent acquisition, retention, and the evolving landscape of workplace culture in the face of technological advancements.00:52 Charlie's Career Journey: From Marketing to Recruitment03:17 Building a Successful Recruiting Firm08:20 The Importance of Human-Centered Leadership14:23 Balancing Data and Human Touch in Recruitment19:40 Technological Advancements in Logistics and Supply Chain26:24 Building Authentic Connections in a Digital World33:35 Future Trends in Workplace CultureAbout Charlie SaffroCharlie Saffro is the CEO and founder of CS Recruiting, a specialized recruiting firm focused on the logistics, transportation, and supply chain industries. A TEDx speaker on human-centered leadership and a passionate advocate for workplace culture, Charlie brings her unique perspective as a female entrepreneur to help companies understand that business is personal - a philosophy that sets her approach to talent acquisition and retention apart.Connect with CharlieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliesaffro/Website: https://www.cs-recruiting.com/–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook podcast, we dive deep into the evolution and impact of agile methodologies and Scrum with Jeff Sutherland, one of Scrum's original creators. Jeff shares insights from his diverse career, spanning from military service to revolutionizing software development to his current ventures in healthcare and AI. He discusses the integral role of Scrum in organizational transformation, the importance of adjusting project management in real-time, and how AI is becoming indispensable in modern project planning and development. Jeff also touches on the significance of performance metrics, the potential of AI to replace traditional planning methods, and how organizations can adapt to rapidly changing technological landscapes to stay competitive.00:56 Jeff's Current Ventures02:31 Military Background and Olympic Training06:03 Scrum Fundamentals and Vietnam Experience08:56 First Principles in Scrum18:23 AI in Project Management24:01 Integrating AI with Scrum25:18 AI's Impact on Team Dynamics26:08 AI in Project Management27:09 The Future of AI in the Workforce29:07 Human Biology and Team Performance31:41 Measuring and Enhancing Team Productivity36:38 The Speed of Innovation40:46 The Future of Agile MethodologiesConnect with Jeff:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffsutherland/Twitter: https://x.com/jeffsutherlandWebsite: https://a.co/d/9ERa0SaLeanpub: https://leanpub.com/u/jvsutherland–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of The Entrepreneur's Logbook, host Zachary Bernard welcomes Christopher Stauffer, CEO of Stauffer, a software consulting firm that’s been transforming the digital landscape for over two decades. Chris shares his journey from launching Deloitte's first client website at 22 to leading successful campaigns for SpaceX, Billboard, and universities, earning prestigious awards like the Clio. The conversation dives into bridging the gap between marketing and engineering teams, shared strategies for effective collaboration, and the role of AI in enhancing workflows. Chris emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'why' behind projects and the impact of prompt engineering in the evolving landscape of marketing. Tune in to learn how effective collaboration and innovative approaches can propel your business to new heights!00:56 Chris’s Early Career and Evolution02:58 Bridging the Marketing and Engineering Gap05:38 The Importance of Collaboration07:19 Effective Communication Strategies11:31 Joint Application Design (JAD) Sessions23:09 Case Study: Increasing Conversion Rates35:27 The Role of AI in Marketing and Engineering39:34 Future of Marketing and Engineering CollaborationConnect with Chris:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/staufferinc + https://www.linkedin.com/company/staufferWebsite: https://www.stauffer.com/chris@stauffer.com–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook Podcast, host Zach interviews Scott Roy, CEO and founder of the global sales consulting firm Whitten & Roy Partnership. Scott shares insights from his 47-year career in sales, from his beginnings as a door-to-door book salesman to co-founding Family Heritage Life Insurance Company. Scott discusses his approach to 'decision intelligence selling,' and how it aligns ethical sales practices with both profit and societal impact. Listen in as we dive into Scott's transition from traditional sales to his work in social enterprise, offering life-changing solutions in developing countries. Scott also outlines common sales challenges and reveals strategies to create an effective, purpose-driven sales force.00:57 Scott Roy's Early Sales Journey03:57 Transition to Sales Management05:24 Balancing Sales and Societal Impact13:00 Decision Intelligence Selling Explained22:15 Cultural and Organizational Sales Challenges31:04 Balancing Mission and Revenue in Social EnterprisesConnect with Scott:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottaroy/Website: https://www.wrpartnership.com/Decision Intelligence Selling: Transform the Way Your People Sell: https://www.amazon.com/Decision-Intelligence-Selling-Transform-People-ebook/dp/B08H2JWQRJSell Well, Do Good: DQ Selling for Social Enterprises : https://www.amazon.com/Sell-Well-Do-Good-Enterprises-ebook/dp/B0957V27HV–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, podcasts, or TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook podcast, host Zachary dives into the world of effective leadership with Michael Brainard, CEO and founder of Brainard Strategy. Michael shares his journey from aspiring athlete to expert in industrial and organizational psychology. He discusses his groundbreaking work on the 'bias trifecta,' the crucial role of self-awareness, and the importance of mitigating biases in decision-making. Michael also explores the evolving landscape of leadership, emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion (DE&I), emotional intelligence (EQ), and the challenges of managing hybrid work environments. Through practical examples and insights from his book, he illustrates how leaders can navigate complex situations, build cohesive cultures, and foster innovative teams.00:51 Michael Brainard's Journey into IO Psychology02:46 The Bias Trifecta and Leadership Decision-Making07:16 Mitigating Biases in Leadership13:13 Ignorance and Insecurity in Leadership18:20 The Importance of Emotional Intelligence22:51 Culture, Vision, and Strategy in Organizations27:44 Future Trends in Leadership35:05 Michael Brainard's Personal Leadership JourneyConnect with Michael:Website: https://www.brainardstrategy.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbrainard/Michael’s Book : https://www.amazon.com/How-Become-Effective-Leader-Disciplines/dp/B0BZX2YFX8–Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, on podcasts, and on TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneur's Logbook podcast, host Zachary Bernard welcomes Beybin Esen, COO at Kimola. Beybin shares her extensive background in strategy and consumer insights, alongside her journey at Kimola from its inception to its growth as an AI-based customer feedback analysis platform.The discussion dives into Kimola's unique approach to analyzing textual data from various sources, including social media, chatbots, and reviews, to provide actionable insights for businesses. Beybin highlights the importance of understanding customer needs and leveraging data to enhance customer experience and drive business growth. The conversation also touches on innovative and unusual use cases of Kimola's platform and gives valuable advice for early-stage SaaS founders looking to scale their operations globally.00:06 Meet Beybin Esen: COO of Kimola01:04 Beybin’s Career Journey and Role at Kimola02:07 Kimola’s Growth Strategy and Success03:37 Understanding Customer Needs with AI05:17 Analyzing Data for Business Growth08:18 Competitor Analysis and Market Research09:43 The Importance of Holistic Data Analysis14:56 Challenges and Unique Use Cases21:26 Advice for Early-Stage SaaS FoundersAdvice for SaaS FoundersFocus on understanding how to sell and who to sell toDon't overlook the importance of SEO for GrowthPrioritize brand positioning over just featuresFind market gaps and understand target audience needsConnect with Beybin:Website: https://kimola.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beybinesen/--Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, on podcasts, and on TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneurs Logbook Podcast, Zachary Bernard speaks with Joel Quintela, founder and CEO of Quintela Group, a company revolutionizing HR technology solutions for Fortune 500 companies. Joel shares insights from his 25 years of experience in HR assessment technology and his unique background in computer system engineering and business psychology. He discusses his journey from aspiring to own IBM to founding his own company in 2009, his philosophy on skill-based hiring, and the complexities of HR tech. Joel also dives into the role of AI in HR, emphasizing the importance of responsible and ethical use of technology to enhance efficiency without compromising fairness and compliance. The conversation covers practical advice for HR professionals on building a strong foundation for hiring processes and navigating the evolving landscape of HR technology.00:52 Joel Quintela's Background and Journey02:31 Combining Technology and Psychology in HR04:31 The Evolution of HR Technology08:20 Implementing Skill-Based Hiring11:15 Challenges in HR Tech Integration17:02 Differences Between Enterprise and Medium-Sized Companies20:47 The Impact of AI on HR Tech23:04 The Shift in Ghosting Dynamics23:29 Structured Interviews: Maximizing Hiring Efficiency24:33 AI in Transcribing and Summarizing Interviews25:41 Challenges and Risks of AI in Hiring27:13 Legal and Compliance Issues with AI31:53 Advice for Implementing AI in Hiring Processes37:15 Building a Strong Foundation for HiringConnect with Joel: Website: https://quintela.io/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joelquintela--Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, on podcasts, and on TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com

In this episode of the Entrepreneurs Logbook Podcast, host Zachary Bernard dives into the marketing strategies and career insights of Michal Habdank-Kolaczkowski, founder of RallyCall Get-to-Marketing, a brand development consultancy.Michal shares his experiences in crafting compelling narratives and strategic brand positioning that have helped companies raise over $650 million in venture capital and achieve exits exceeding $4 billion to industry giants like Google, Dell, Intel, and eBay. He also recounts his time growing Waze to 100 million users and shares the exciting transformations he's led, such as with BeeHero. Whether it's discussing his humble beginnings in PR or offering strategic advice for startups looking to rebrand before an acquisition, this episode is packed with invaluable lessons for entrepreneurs and marketers alike.00:07 Meet Michal: The Branding Maestro02:08 Early Career and PR Adventures05:08 The Waze Journey: From Skepticism to Success13:02 Branding Strategies for Acquisitions21:44 The Bee Hero Success Story32:49 The Future of Branding in the Age of AI37:10 Common Pitfalls in Startup PitchesConnect with Michal : Website: https://rallycall.co/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itsmichal/Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/itszachb/Website: https://www.wefeatureyou.com/ + https://zacharybernard.com/Do you want to be featured in the press, on podcasts, and on TV? Visit wefeatureyou.com