The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

Innovation Unleashed: Transforming Mindsets and Businesses for SuccessIn the latest podcast episode, host Josh engages with Patrick Noel Daly, a seasoned innovator and consultant, to explore the concept of innovation as a mindset. Patrick shares his extensive experience in the consulting sphere, offering valuable insights and actionable advice for entrepreneurs and business leaders. The discussion highlights the critical role of innovation in business and how it can be cultivated as a mindset, emphasizing the importance of continuous improvement and creativity.Patrick's journey into innovation began at a young age with entrepreneurial ventures like a lemonade stand, which sparked his curiosity and drive to solve problems. He believes innovation is fundamentally a mindset, involving a focus on improvement and creativity. One key takeaway is the balance between generating innovative ideas and ensuring their commercial viability. Patrick stresses the importance of linking ideas to business outcomes and evaluating their market demand before investing resources. He illustrates this with the development of Simclr, a mattress topper for the medical industry, which successfully transitioned into consumer markets with Dream Care.Josh and Patrick also discuss the value of innovation in business, particularly in B2B solutions, and the importance of external perspectives. Patrick notes that smaller companies can leverage their innovative solutions by partnering with larger organizations. He advocates for creating an environment where ideas can flourish within organizations, encouraging collaboration and employee engagement. As a consultant, Patrick offers his expertise to help businesses navigate the innovation process, emphasizing the importance of external insights to drive innovation. The episode concludes with a call to embrace curiosity, seek new ideas, and adopt an innovative mindset to unlock growth opportunities.About Patrick Noel Daly:Patrick Noel Daly (PND) is a seasoned entrepreneur who has founded his own startups in IT, SaaS and medical. Patrick founded Icon Global Innovations to launch his own products and he also founded PND Global Consulng to help companies, businesses, and entrepreneurs to succeed. He was a winner on the Late Late Enterprise Show in Ireland in 1998 with a special school bag that he designed to help kids carry heavy loads of books. Patrick Noel was Bank of Ireland/Shell Young Entrepreneur of the Year in Ireland in 1999. Patrick now licenses his inventions established products to licensees and resellers in medical care and healthcare, having invented and developed these medical innovations to provide products that are “good for people”, which he says was his primary reason for inventing the products. He wants to scale that product range in the USA and to make DreamCair and CUSHEE, the consumer versions available in the sleep/wellness market in the USA and wider. Patrick writes his won patents and he manages his own Intellectual Property portfolio. Patrick is originally from Cork, Ireland and has travelled the world on business. Since moving to the western side of the world, Patrick has helped mentor entrepreneurs, including volunteer/pro bono mentor roles with iCorps Naonal Science Foundaon USA. See hps://icorpsnortheasthub.org/ Patrick was invited to mentor by Princeton University, NJ, USA. He has wrien “Just Start Up-A Guide to Building Startups” and is passionate about inspiring young and aspiring entrepreneurs.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Patrick Noel Daly website at

The Evolution of Hiring: Integrating AI for Smarter RecruitmentIn a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, host Josh interviews Delaney Thompson, co-founder of Bahia AI, to discuss the transformative impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on talent sourcing and recruitment. Delaney introduces Mia, Bahia AI's flagship AI-driven tool, which automates the identification and engagement of potential job candidates. This conversation highlights how AI can streamline recruitment processes, address common challenges, and maintain a crucial human touch in candidate interactions.Bahia AI is dedicated to revolutionizing recruitment through advanced technology, aiming to make hiring more efficient by leveraging AI. Mia, their innovative tool, automates the initial stages of recruitment by identifying and engaging potential candidates, significantly reducing the time and effort involved in traditional hiring methods. Delaney explains that Mia allows businesses to focus on genuinely interested candidates, improving the overall efficiency of the recruitment process. AI tools like Mia offer key advantages, such as processing large volumes of data quickly, eliminating bias, and being cost-effective compared to traditional platforms.Despite the efficiency AI brings, maintaining a personal touch in candidate interactions remains essential. Mia handles initial outreach and engagement, but once candidates respond, human recruiters take over to ensure a personalized experience. Delaney shares Bahia AI's journey, from launching their Minimum Viable Product (MVP) using no-code tools to developing a more robust platform. As Bahia AI plans to transition to a credit-based pricing model, Delaney emphasizes the importance of curiosity and continuous improvement in leveraging AI solutions. Listeners are encouraged to explore Bahia AI's offerings and embrace AI's potential to transform recruitment processes.About Delaney Thompson:Delaney is a remote tech entrepreneur who has lived abroad for the past six years. With a deep understanding of remote work and tech, she has successfully led various ventures in the industry while embracing the flexibility of the digital nomad lifestyle.About Bahia AI:Founded by Delaney Thompson and Danika Chilibeck, Bahia AI is a cutting-edge talent sourcing platform that combines the power of artificial intelligence with the expertise of human recruiters. Launched in June 2024, Bahia AI has quickly gained traction, securing over 20 paying customers and generating significant revenue in the tens of thousandsApply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Bahia AI website athttps://www.bahia.ai/Check out Bahia AI on LinkedIn athttps://ca.linkedin.com/company/bahia-aiCheck out Delaney Thompson on LinkedIn athttps://ca.linkedin.com/in/delaney-j-thompsonDon’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE.Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more...

Unlocking the Power of Business Research with GraphIQIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in an insightful discussion with Malcolm DeLeo, co-founder of GraphIQ. The conversation explores the complexities of business research, the hurdles organizations encounter in sourcing reliable information, and how GraphIQ is transforming data gathering and utilization for businesses. This episode distills key insights and practical advice, offering a guide for listeners aiming to enhance their business research strategies.Josh begins by emphasizing the significance of business connections, noting that strong relationships with partners, investors, influencers, and clients are crucial for success. Drawing from his extensive experience, he points out that the best business opportunities often stem from these connections. He encourages listeners to access a free video that outlines strategies for achieving 100% inbound business growth without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics.Malcolm DeLeo shares insights from interviews with over 40 executives, revealing a common challenge: finding reliable companies to do business with. Many organizations rely on Google, personal networks, or consultants for research, leading to the creation of GraphIQ, a search engine tailored for business research. GraphIQ leverages natural language processing (NLP) to compile and organize data from billions of websites, allowing users to search for companies based on specific capabilities and attributes. Malcolm highlights the importance of accurate information in today's AI-driven age and encourages companies to invest in innovative solutions like GraphIQ, which has already transformed workflows and improved efficiency for its users.About Malcolm De Leo:Malcolm De Leo is an innovation expert who has successfully built and developed new markets for both Fortune 500 companies and Silicon Valley Startups. Over his 25 year career, Malcolm’s leadership as an evangelist for new ideas, new technologies and for developing innovative cultures is what drives his work.  Most recently, as Orbital Insight's Chief of Solution Strategy he was the customer facing person from the product team tasked with understanding the marketplace to provide strategic guidance on how the company delivered scalable and repeatable customer value.  Prior to his time at Orbital insight; he was Chief Evangelist at both Quantifind and Netbase.  At both companies, he helped pioneer the usage of social media data to drive business decisions across the Fortune 500 Landscape.  Before entering Silicon Valley, Malcolm was Global Vice President of Innovation at Daymon Worldwide, the world's largest private brand product broker and also worked developing innovation partnerships and new products for the Clorox Company where he started his career.  He holds a Ph.D. in Inorganic Chemistry from University of California at Santa Barbara and an MBA in Technology Management from the University of Phoenix.About GraphIQ:GraphIQ is a massive Knowledge Graph of business information containing trillions of organizational facts and relationships, sourced and continuously updated from billions of websites.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out GraphIQ website athttps://graphiq.ai/Check out GraphIQ on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/graphiq-ai/Check out Malcolm De Leo on LinkedIn

Leadership Reimagined: Thriving in a Disruptive LandscapeIn a recent podcast episode, host Josh engaged in a thought-provoking conversation with Kumar Parakala, a serial entrepreneur and author of the bestselling book "Lead to Disrupt: Seven Keys to Success in the Changing World." The discussion centered around the theme of disruption in the business landscape, especially in light of recent global changes such as technological advancements, geopolitical tensions, and evolving work dynamics. This blog post distills the key insights from the episode, offering actionable advice to help leaders navigate the complexities of today's business environment.Kumar Parakala shared his extensive background, highlighting over 20 years of experience working with large companies and startups. As the founder of GHD Digital, he played a pivotal role in growing the company to $100 million in revenue within five years, focusing on driving digital transformation and innovation within traditional business models. Kumar recounted the journey of GHD, a nearly 100-year-old company, and his role in leading its digital transformation after GHD acquired his startup in 2017. By 2022, GHD had achieved significant milestones, including a presence in nine countries and recognition as a top player in the architecture, engineering, and construction (AEC) industry.As the conversation shifted to the broader theme of disruption, Kumar reflected on the rapid changes occurring in the world today, emphasizing the need for leaders to adopt a disruptive mindset. He explained that traditional leadership models are becoming inadequate in the face of evolving challenges, and his book "Lead to Disrupt" provides new leadership paradigms that resonate with contemporary needs. Kumar stressed the importance of adopting a disruptive mindset, influence over authority, adaptability, collaboration, self-reflection, empathy, and continuous learning. He concluded by encouraging leaders to embrace these insights to navigate the complexities of today's business environment and drive meaningful change within their organizations.About Kumar Parakal:Kumar Parakala is an acclaimed CEO, President, Founder and Board Director with 20+ years of experience building, scaling, and leading technology and professional services firms with a global footprint. As an entrepreneur and senior executive, Kumar has a proven record of accelerating business growth, steering international expansion, and building award-winning businesses that are widely renowned as marketplace leaders. Starting in the early 2000s, Kumar was one of the pioneers and champions of the digital transformation paradigm shift. In over two decades since, he has advised Fortune 500 companies, governments, and institutions across 30 countries on technology innovation, growth strategies, risk, and governance to deliver sustained value, bolster change resilience, and capitalize on whitespace opportunities via leading-edge digital solutions. Kumar has also published two books on leadership, earning widespread acclaim as a USA Today and Amazon best-selling author. Kumar is currently the President of GHD Digital, a global business of GHD that he founded after the acquisition of his startup, Technova, in 2017. Under his leadership, GHD Digital has grown to 700 professionals across nine countries with a 5- year CAGR of 45%. With a focus on digital transformation and AI-powered innovation, GHD Digital has won 250+ awards for its trailblazing solutions, shaping the future of the $200B AEC industry. Kumar is a co-author of the USA Today bestseller, 'Luminary Leadership', and a regular contributor to the Forbes Business Council. His thought leadership has been featured in The Wall Street Journal, AFR, Financial Times, ABC, CNBC, and Sky News. Kumar's achievements have been recognized with the 2021 CQU Alumnus of the Year, 2016 Digital Disruptor's International...

Achieving Balance in EntrepreneurshipIn a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Cathy Christen, the founder of Go Abundance and author of "Life as a Masterpiece." Cathy shared her extensive experience in sales and entrepreneurship, offering valuable insights into achieving balance in life while running a successful business. This blog post delves into the key themes discussed in the episode, providing actionable advice and expert recommendations for entrepreneurs and business leaders.Cathy Christen's journey in sales and entrepreneurship spans over 23 years. Starting at the age of 19 with Cutco, she quickly rose through the ranks, breaking records and achieving significant financial milestones. However, her success came at a personal cost, prompting her to reassess her approach to business and life. Today, Cathy focuses on helping entrepreneurs build systems that allow them to enjoy their lives while achieving their professional goals. She emphasizes the need for a balanced approach in business, integrating both masculine and feminine energies. Traditional business practices often lean towards a more masculine approach, characterized by assertiveness and competition. However, embracing feminine qualities such as empathy, collaboration, and intuition can enhance decision-making and foster a more inclusive work environment.Cathy introduces her "Faster Framework," designed to help entrepreneurs regain time and improve their business systems. This methodology includes five key systems that every high-level executive or entrepreneur needs to buy back ten hours a week. These systems focus on decision-making, automation, delegation, time blocking, and reporting on key performance indicators. By implementing these strategies, business owners can create a more efficient and balanced work environment. Cathy's insights highlight the importance of balance in entrepreneurship, the evolving nature of sales, and the need for effective systems that allow business owners to enjoy their lives while achieving their goals. For those interested in exploring Cathy's work further, visit her website and check out her book, "Life as a Masterpiece: Design and Live a Life You Love," available on Amazon. Join our podcast community for daily inspiration and motivation, and subscribe to stay connected with a network dedicated to personal and professional growth.About Cathy Christen:Cathy Christen, a serial entrepreneur, vibrant speaker, and executive business coach with over two decades of experience, specializes in crafting a 'Life by Design.' Renowned as the "Culture Queen," Cathy excels in team dynamics and reclaiming entrepreneurs' time. She has helped thousands of entrepreneurs from all sorts of industries start and grow their dream businesses while living a life they love, and leads dynamic retreats to unlock explosive growth!As a co-founder of GoBundance WomenⓇ, Cathy channels her energy and expertise to inspire female executives, investors, and entrepreneurs, fostering a network dedicated to achieving a full, abundant life. Committed to breaking barriers, she empowers women to build unstoppable mindsets, guiding them toward their goals.About GoBundance Women:It is an exclusive membership community of executives, entrepreneurs, and investors. The group seeks truth and genuine connection with other powerful women. They don’t climb ladders—they own them. The community supports one another and holds each member accountable for every aspect of their lives, offering a space where apologies are not necessary. Success, beauty, and badassery are celebrated in a way that uplifts rather than diminishes. Diverse, eclectic, and impossible to define—or hold down—the members value health, financial freedom, adventure, genuine contribution, and above all, unapologetic, unabashed, and limitless joy.Membership provides...

Mastering Business Turnarounds: Strategies from the expertIn a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling discussion with Mike Dunlop, a seasoned entrepreneur and turnaround expert. With a background that includes founding ten companies and consulting for 34 others, Mike shares his insights on business recovery and leadership, drawing from his extensive experience in the computer industry and his book, "The Art of the Turnaround." Mike's journey underscores the power of self-education and adaptability, having started his career in England without a high school diploma but with a strong aptitude for mathematics. His move to the United States and subsequent success at Litton Industries highlight the importance of seizing opportunities.Mike's transition to consulting was catalyzed by his initiative at Litton Industries, where he rewrote unusable software and became the top salesman. This proactive approach led to a 17-year consulting career, where he developed a systematic approach to turnarounds. In the podcast, Mike discusses key principles from his book, emphasizing effective leadership, forensic accounting, and team alignment as crucial components for improving struggling businesses. He advises leaders to inspire and align their teams, conduct honest financial assessments, and engage with employees to create pathways for mutual success.The conversation also touches on current challenges faced by companies like Boeing, highlighting the importance of maintaining a viable business model focused on operational health. As the episode concludes, Mike discusses his selective approach to consulting, focusing on projects with a viable chance of recovery. His insights provide valuable lessons for entrepreneurs and business leaders, offering practical advice for navigating the complexities of business recovery. Listeners are encouraged to explore Mike's book and apply these principles to improve their own business situations, emerging stronger and more resilient.About Mike Dunlop:MIKE DUNLOP has helped to restore 34 companies in various stages of financial demise back to profitability. He has worked in the aerospace sector for over four decades and has built a number of aerospace component manufacturing companies, both in Europe and the United States. The largest company he founded is QPM Aerospace, which grew to $30 million in sales in the first ten years. Dunlop designed and founded Net-Inspect, the most widely used aerospace quality-management system in the world. Dunlop has lived in Seattle, Washington, since he moved to the United States from the United Kingdom in 1973. He has been passionate about airplanes since his first flight on a Vickers Viscount in 1955 at the age of seven. Dunlop is an experienced public speaker, and he’s offering his wisdom and stories on a weekly podcast, available on Spotify and YouTube.About the book "The Art of the Turnaround":In The Art of the Turnaround, Mike Dunlop shares his proven 10-step method for turning around companies in deep financial distress, which he has used to restore some 34 companies to financial health and profitability. Infused with Dunlop’s down-to-earth humour and deep understanding of how the people in companies actually work, especially at a time of crisis, The Art of the Turnaround offers CEOs of troubled companies, and leaders who are buying distressed companies, a practical way to avoid financial ruin. Dunlop also offers hope that, after the challenging task of turning a money-losing company into a profitable one, life for the CEO as well as those who stay in the company will be enjoyable again.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: 

Hooked on Marketing: Empowering Business Owners in the Digital AgeIn a recent podcast episode, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with André Savoie, a seasoned consultant and entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience in digital marketing. The discussion delves into effective marketing strategies, particularly in the digital realm, and underscores the importance of authenticity and simplicity in marketing efforts. This blog post will break down the key insights and actionable advice shared by André, providing a comprehensive guide for listeners and readers alike.Josh kicks off the episode by emphasizing the importance of building connections with partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to understand where their best business comes from. Josh also offers a free video class on creating inbound marketing strategies without relying on spam, ads, or sales tactics, highlighting that his methods have generated significant revenue for his own companies over the past 15 years. André Savoie brings a unique perspective to digital marketing, having learned from traditional marketers in radio and television. This "old school" approach has shaped his understanding of marketing, where he often finds an overemphasis on technical aspects—like keywords and URLs—at the expense of effective strategy. André believes that successful marketing requires a balance between technical correctness and strategic thinking, a principle that has remained consistent over the years.As the conversation shifts to current trends in marketing, André identifies two key themes that he believes will be crucial moving forward: authenticity and simplicity. André stresses the need for businesses to present an authentic image in their marketing efforts. He observes that many companies try to polish their image, creating a disconnect between their marketing and the actual customer experience. He encourages business owners to be involved in their marketing and to ensure that their messaging reflects the true nature of their operations. In a world filled with marketing channels and strategies, André advocates for a simplified approach. He warns against the temptation to spread marketing efforts too thin across multiple platforms, suggesting that businesses should focus on a few channels and execute them exceptionally well. This focus allows for more meaningful engagement and growth.About Andre Savoie:Andre' Savoie is a seasoned marketing strategist with over 17 years of experience running a successful marketing agency. Throughout his career, he’s come to a clear realization: the traditional marketing model needs to evolve.As marketing becomes increasingly complex, business owners are feeling more overwhelmed than ever. However, one thing remains unchanged—nothing is more critical than strategy. When businesses get their strategy right, it brings clarity, purpose, and drives growth.Creating impactful strategies is Andre’s superpower—his Zone of Genius and his true passion. It’s the place where he thrives and finds his greatest fulfillment.That’s why he made the bold decision to step away from his agency. Now, Andre offers clients a new, hybrid model that combines personalized, one-on-one strategic guidance with affordable, group-based learning. His goal is to help businesses not only get the strategic direction they need but also empower them to become more confident and effective marketers in their own right.About Andre Savoie Consulting:Andrei Savoie Consulting is a forward-thinking marketing consultancy founded by Andre' Savoie, a marketing strategist with over 17 years of experience in helping businesses thrive. The company focuses on delivering high-level strategic guidance to businesses looking to navigate the increasingly complex marketing...

Mastering Talent Acquisition: Insights on Effective Hiring PracticesIn the latest episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur Show, the host delves into the complexities of talent acquisition with Fletcher Wimbush, the founder and CEO of Discovered AI. This episode is a goldmine of insights for businesses facing hiring challenges and aiming to enhance their talent acquisition strategies. We summarize the key takeaways, offering actionable advice and detailed explanations to help you improve your hiring processes.The host begins by stressing the crucial role of effective hiring in business success and introduces Fletcher Wimbush, who brings over a decade of experience in talent acquisition. The episode explores the costs of mediocre hires and the advantages of modern, data-driven hiring practices. Fletcher discusses the "mushy middle," where businesses are burdened with underperforming employees who neither excel nor warrant termination, leading to significant financial and cultural impacts. He advises implementing regular performance reviews, setting clear expectations, and using data-driven decisions to mitigate these issues.Fletcher emphasizes the need for modern hiring practices, moving beyond traditional methods like job boards. He advocates for proactive talent acquisition through employee referrals and technology utilization. Fletcher explains how Discovered AI connects businesses with diverse talent sources, enabling them to build a robust candidate pool. He highlights the importance of building a talent bench, akin to a CRM system for potential hires, and offers resources through Discovered AI, including a free account and e-learning courses. By leveraging technology, nurturing potential candidates, and adopting data-driven strategies, businesses can significantly enhance their hiring outcomes and drive success.About Fletcher Wimbush:Fletcher Wimbush, the transformative CEO of Discovered Performance Hiring Software has dedicated a decade to tackling hiring's hardest problems. A thought-leader in his field, he’s published extensively on reference checking, aptitude assessments, and AI's role in candidate selection. His FACT Driven Hiring System drives million-dollar results, proving his role as a game-changer in the hiring field. Fletcher's reach extends beyond organizations to individuals, facilitating thousands of successful careers. As an ethical AI proponent, he's pioneering AI-powered initiatives for talent selection. Fletcher's transformative approach to hiring is not just rewriting the rules; it's setting a whole new standard.About Discovered:Fletcher Wimbush created the Discovered F.A.C.T.S. - Driven Performance Hiring based on more than 10,000 interviews and backed by academic studies. Never has there been a better time to take that "Hiring A-Players That Fit" course here.This 12-week program will deliver 10-50X more applicants, higher candidate quality, lower turnover by 50 to 90% and will result in consistently more A player hires who get up to speed and produce better results faster.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Discovered's website athttps://www.discoveredats.com/Check out Discovered on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/the-hire-talent/Check out Fletcher Wimbush on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/fletcher-wimbushDon’t...

The Power of Storytelling in the Age of AIIn today's rapidly evolving business landscape, where artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping operations, the art of authentic storytelling has become more crucial than ever. In a recent podcast episode, host Josh and guest Dan Grech, founder and CEO of BizHack Academy, explore the intersection of storytelling, marketing, and AI. This blog post distills their conversation into actionable insights for entrepreneurs aiming to leverage AI while preserving authenticity in their communications.Josh begins the episode by highlighting the critical role of storytelling in modern business. Compelling narratives are essential for connecting with customers, differentiating in a crowded market, and building trust. While AI can enhance business operations, Josh emphasizes that the human element—particularly personal storytelling—remains vital. AI can assist in crafting messages, but the essence of storytelling must remain genuine to foster trust and connection.Dan Grech shares his expertise in helping entrepreneurs, especially those in second-stage companies, harness AI for marketing and sales strategies. He acknowledges that many businesses feel overwhelmed by the rapid advancements in AI but stresses the importance of embracing these technologies to stay competitive. Dan offers practical advice, such as committing to learning AI tools, utilizing resources like BizHack Academy's free masterclasses, and customizing AI to reflect a brand's unique voice. By doing so, businesses can streamline operations and enhance the authenticity of their narratives, ultimately fostering deeper connections with their audience.About Dan Grech:Dan Grech is a Pulitzer Prize-winning former NPR and PBS journalist turned entrepreneur and educator. He’s the Founder and CEO of BizHack Academy, which is on a mission to train 1 million businesses how to use AI-powered marketing and business storytelling to grow 10x faster so their communities can thrive. He was the News Director at Miami’s NPR station), a correspondent for NPR’s Marketplace and PBS’s Nightly Business Report, and worked at The Miami Herald and The Washington Post. He co-hosted Miami’s first podcast, Under the Sun. He is the grandson of a Philadelphia public school science teacher and of a professional soccer coach in La Liga in Spain, and he carries forward a family legacy of teaching, coaching and entrepreneurship. He’s worked as the head of digital marketing at two software startups and the nation’s largest Hispanic-owned energy company. Dan has participated in accelerator programs through Entrepreneurs Organization, the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Business Program, and Knight Foundation. He’s taught at top universities including Princeton, Columbia and University of Miami. Dan is a graduate of Princeton University and has a Masters degree in storytelling from FIU and in journalism from Universidad Torcuato di Tella in Argentina. He lives with his wife and two children in Denver, CO.About BizHack Academy:BizHack Academy is on a mission to help 10,000 small businesses to grow faster. BizHack works with business support organizations to create customized digital marketing training programs for small businesses. We teach courses and provide personalized coaching in AI for marketing and sales, online lead generation, business storytelling, and thought leadership. BizHack is the creator of two purpose-driven digital marketing methodologies: the Lead Building System™, a proven process for online lead generation, and the Thought Leadership Pyramid™, a systematic approach to content marketing.BizHack is a proud Florida MBE and has provided over $300,000 in scholarships to more than 200 BIPOC- and women-owned businesses. Its #BizHackLive Masterclass series, launched during the heart to COVID crisis as a free resource to the business

Mobile Marketing Metrics: Measuring Success in a Digital WorldIn the latest episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh Elledge engages with Alex Campbell, co-founder of Vibes, to delve into the dynamic realm of mobile marketing. This episode is packed with insights for brands aiming to enhance their communication strategies through text messaging. Alex shares his expertise on the significance of consumer consent, the evolving landscape of marketing technology, and the future of mobile marketing with advancements like AI and RCS (Rich Communication Services).Vibes has been a leader in mobile marketing for over 20 years, collaborating with renowned brands such as Chipotle, Ulta, and KFC. The company specializes in helping brands communicate effectively with consumers through text messaging, ensuring these interactions are valuable and non-intrusive. Alex categorizes businesses into two groups: those experienced but stagnant, facing high opt-out rates, and those new and uncertain, recognizing the potential of mobile marketing but unsure where to start. Vibes offers guidance to help them develop tailored strategies that align with their objectives.Consumer consent is not just a legal requirement but a best practice that fosters trust and engagement. The "Telephone Consumer Protection Act (TCPA)" was established to protect consumers from unwanted robocalls and spam messages. Brands must ensure they obtain explicit permission from consumers before sending messages. Opt-in messaging leads to higher engagement rates, with click-through rates averaging between 20% to 30%. When consumers willingly subscribe to receive messages, they are more likely to respond positively, resulting in more effective marketing campaigns.About Alex Campbell:Alex Campbell has long been recognized as one of mobile marketing’s original pioneers, working tirelessly to educate marketers on the value of mobile as a viable discipline. A true entrepreneur at heart, Alex oversees Vibes’ innovation strategy – always looking for the next great mobile technology brands can leverage to drive deeper customer engagement and untapped revenue opportunities.About Vibes:Vibes creates personal and revenue-driving mobile engagement between consumers and the brands they love. Industry leaders like Chipotle, The Children's Place, and Polo Ralph Lauren use Vibes to activate and grow customer relationships with timely, relevant, high-volume mobile messaging at a global scale. The company’s intelligent mobile engagement platform enables marketers to seamlessly connect with their customers using an automated, data-rich platform that beautifully optimizes and unifies their SMS, MMS, RCS and Mobile Wallet campaigns.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Vibes website athttps://www.vibes.com/Check out Vibes on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/vibes-media/Check out Alex Campbell on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/alexcampbell2Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence:We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur.

The Importance of Financial Management in Business GrowthIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in an insightful discussion with Karl Maier, a seasoned fractional CFO and business advisor, and the founder of Abunden. The conversation centers on the pivotal role financial management plays in scaling businesses, especially those with revenues ranging from a million to a hundred million dollars. Karl shares his extensive experience, offering practical advice on navigating growth challenges, improving financial reporting, and enhancing overall operations.Josh begins the episode by inviting listeners to explore his free video resource for those seeking introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He emphasizes the importance of inbound marketing strategies that have significantly contributed to generating eight figures in revenue for his companies over the past 15 years. Listeners are encouraged to visit his website, Up My Influence, for more information and to explore potential guest opportunities on the podcast.Karl Maier brings a wealth of experience, specializing in helping companies scale their operations. With over nine years as a full-time CFO and more than a decade as a fractional CFO, Karl has worked with numerous businesses to enhance their financial systems and operational processes. He focuses on growth through acquisition and organic growth, assisting companies in expanding their operations by acquiring other businesses and improving sales processes. Karl also highlights the importance of sophisticated financial systems beyond basic accounting software, emphasizing the need for tools like CRM systems and marketing automation as companies grow.About Karl Maier:Karl Maier, the founder of Abunden is an experienced CFO and business advisor, who has played a key role in doubling sales at five companies in just two years. Abunden is a company dedicated to helping businesses grow by understanding their numbers, building repeatable business systems, and organizing their team, particularly in today's challenging economy with inflation, labor shortages, and supply chain disruptions. Karl’s expertise spans expanding credit lines, leading multimillion-dollar acquisitions, and enhancing profitability through innovative pricing, systems, and financial strategies.About Abunden:Abunden is a forward-thinking organization focused on delivering innovative solutions that drive business growth and operational efficiency. Specializing in data-driven insights, technology integration, and process optimization, Abunden partners with businesses to create tailored strategies that foster long-term success. With a commitment to excellence and a customer-first approach, Abunden leverages cutting-edge technologies and industry expertise to help clients achieve their full potential in an ever-evolving marketplace.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Abunden website athttps://www.abunden.com/Check out Abunden on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/abundenCheck out Karl Maier on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/karlkmaier/Don’t forget to subscribe to The Thoughtful Entrepreneur and thank you for listening. Tune in next time! More from UpMyInfluence:We...

The Importance of Data in B2B MarketingIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engaged in a conversation with Paula Chiocchi, CEO of Outward Media (OMI), about the critical role of data in B2B marketing. They explored how businesses can leverage data to enhance marketing strategies, the necessity of maintaining high-quality data, and emerging industry trends. Paula shared key insights and actionable advice, offering a comprehensive guide for businesses aiming to optimize their marketing efforts through data.Outward Media, known as OMI, is a performance marketing agency with a robust B2B database of approximately 145 million managerial contacts across various U.S. industries. Specializing in omnichannel marketing, OMI offers services such as social media marketing, direct mail, email marketing, and programmatic advertising. Paula emphasized the importance of accurate data, noting that poor data can lead to significant opportunity loss, such as outdated contact information affecting email marketing efforts. She advised regular data updates and investing in quality data to maintain accuracy and effectiveness.Paula also highlighted the value of investing in quality data, which can significantly impact marketing effectiveness and ROI. She shared examples of OMI's partnerships with notable clients like AT&T and Amazon, underscoring the importance of reliable data in successful marketing campaigns. For small and midsize businesses, Paula suggested using OMI's data to create lookalike audiences for social media marketing and combining multiple channels for a powerful strategy. She also discussed trends like AI integration and the shift towards targeted marketing, advising businesses to explore AI tools and focus on quality communications.About Paula Chiocchi:Paula Chiocchi, CEO and founder of OMI, is an award-winning marketing industry veteran whose mission is to help businesses realize their full potential by effectively reaching their target audiences and converting more prospects into customers.Under her direction, OMI provides Fortune 1000 firms and other clients fresh, accurate contact data to fuel outbound marketing initiatives and drive sales and profits. An expert and innovator in multi-channel marketing data, Paula has established OMI as a leader in comprehensive email campaign management services. Along with her growing team, her goal is to assist clients in successfully navigating the complex email channel by offering hands-on guidance combined with the highest levels of email deliverability and marketing ROI. Paula began her career with Dun & Bradstreet and developed her skills by creating direct mail, online advertising and email campaigns for leading mortgage companies, financial institutions, telecom, software, online gaming sites, sweepstakes enterprises and e-commerce companies.Paula has been a contributing member of Forbes Agency Council since 2016. About Outward Media, Inc. (OMI):Outward Media (OMI) is a leading provider of high-quality marketing data, dedicated to helping organizations expand their reach, acquire new customers, and enter new markets. With a strong focus on multi-channel marketing data, OMI has established itself as a pioneer in delivering fresh, accurate business contact data that drives growth and success.Specializing in both B2C and B2B markets, OMI compiles domestic and international data with a commitment to maintaining the highest standards of data quality. The company’s core competency lies in collecting accurate data across various channels, including postal, firmagraphic, demographic, and email address data.To further demonstrate its commitment to email data integrity, OMI created the OMI Clean-Send service, which helps protect clients' sender reputations by ensuring their email messages are delivered without being...

Unlocking the Power of Texting: How Texting Can Elevate Your Business CommunicationIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh explores the realm of business texting with Phil Portman, CEO of Textdrip. This episode is packed with insights on how businesses can utilize texting to enhance communication, boost customer engagement, and navigate the evolving regulatory landscape. We summarize the key takeaways, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations to help optimize your business texting strategy.Phil Portman founded Textdrip to overcome the limitations of traditional email communication, which often suffers from low response rates and poor deliverability. Texting, on the other hand, has become a preferred communication method, especially among adults under 50, due to its immediacy and higher engagement levels. Textdrip integrates texting into customer relationship management (CRM) systems, enabling businesses to run effective text drip campaigns. Key features include automated follow-ups, seamless CRM integration, and higher engagement rates compared to email.Phil discusses how various industries can leverage Textdrip to improve their communication strategies. For instance, in insurance, it can capture leads and provide timely customer service updates. In real estate, it can send property details and coordinate appointments. The platform also helps businesses navigate regulatory changes by ensuring compliance with new guidelines, such as using registered traffic to avoid fines. Textdrip stands out with superior deliverability, robust analytics, and exceptional customer service, offering competitive pricing and a promotional 60-day free trial for podcast listeners.About Philip Portman:Phil Portman is a Bootstrapped SERIAL ENTREPRENEUR who has created multiple 8 gure businesses. He has created several startups from the ground up including Textdrip, Argos Automation, Pranshtech Solutions, Landline Remover, Positive Intent AI, and his most recent project, Coaches HQ. Textdrip, a agship in Phil’s business portfolio, is a business texting platform for insurance, mortgage, real estate, and solar sales. Phil enjoys helping other budding entrepreneurs follow their dreams. He hosts the SUCCESS IS Podcast, and he is a contributor for FORBES Online where he shares his entrepreneurial and leadership wisdom. When Phil is away from the business, he enjoys his life as a Michigan native residing in Holly, Michigan with his wife and two sons.About Textdrip:Textdrip is a cutting-edge communication platform designed to help businesses engage with customers through personalized, automated text messaging. Specializing in SMS marketing and customer relationship management, Textdrip enables companies to streamline communication, drive conversions, and improve customer retention with minimal effort. By combining advanced automation with a user-friendly interface, Textdrip empowers businesses of all sizes to create impactful, real-time messaging campaigns that deliver measurable results.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out Textdrip website athttps://textdrip.com/Check out Textdrip on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/company/textdripCheck out Philip Portman on LinkedIn athttps://www.linkedin.com/in/philportmanDon’t...

The Future of PR: Embracing Digital Innovations for GrowthIn the latest episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Justin Goldstein, the founder of PR73, an integrated communications firm specializing in public relations and marketing. Justin shared his wealth of knowledge on how businesses can effectively leverage PR to enhance their visibility, credibility, and ultimately, their sales. This blog post will break down the key insights from the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations to help you maximize the impact of your PR efforts.Justin Goldstein founded PR73, an integrated communications firm named after 73rd Street in Manhattan, where he started the company. PR73 focuses on creating synergies between public relations and marketing, offering a range of services from media relations to digital marketing. Justin's approach emphasizes the importance of integrating PR with business development goals to drive growth. One of the common misconceptions about PR is that it is solely about gaining visibility. While visibility is a crucial aspect, Justin argues that effective PR should be integrated with business development goals. Many businesses fail to understand how to leverage PR for their growth, leading to missed opportunities.In summary, this episode provides valuable insights into the role of public relations in business growth. Justin Goldstein's expertise highlights the importance of integrating PR with marketing strategies, leveraging media coverage effectively, and maintaining exceptional customer service. As the media landscape continues to evolve, businesses must adapt their approaches to PR and recognize the potential of both traditional and new media channels. By doing so, they can enhance their visibility, credibility, and ultimately drive sales growth. For more information about Justin Goldstein and PR 73, visit their website at pr73.com where you can explore the range of services offered and learn more about how PR can benefit your business.About Justin Goldstein:Justin is an award-winning public relations and marketing expert, and the Founder and Lead Strategist of PR73, an integrated communications agency that helps brands build trust and unlock growth opportunities. He has reshaped industry practices through his work with leading organizations like Uber, AARP, Clinton Global Initiative, General Motors, and many more. Justin’s mission? To empower brands to develop trust at every touchpoint. Justin’s journey is a testament to the power of resilience and resourcefulness. Born with a cyst on his kidney, he learned early on to recognize his limits and adapt strategically—a lesson he now applies to business. Just as he used a kidney protector belt as a child, Justin advocates for understanding your bandwidth and being resourceful to avoid overextending yourself and your clients.About PR73:PR73 is an NYC-based, integrated communications firm that specializes in developing insight, strategy, and content to build and strengthen trust across both internal and external audiences.Originally founded as Press Record Communications, PR73 expands upon its predecessor's vision by combining PR and marketing to deliver more holistic, innovative services that go beyond traditional communications. With an award-winning team of seasoned creative professionals and business-minded experts, PR73 has a proven track record of crafting consistent brand messaging across all platforms, driving visibility, and fostering growth for its clients.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: https://go.upmyinfluence.com/podcast-guestLinks Mentioned in this Episode:Want to learn more? Check out PR73 website ata...

The Impact of Remote Staffing on Business Growth and InnovationIn a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages with Pranav Dalal, founder and CEO of Office Beacon, to explore the nuances of remote staffing and outsourcing. The discussion highlights Office Beacon's distinctive approach and the broader industry trends, offering businesses valuable insights into remote staffing solutions. This blog post distills the episode's key points, providing actionable advice and detailed explanations for companies considering these solutions.Office Beacon, founded in 2001 as a graphic design outsourcing company in India, has grown into a comprehensive managed services provider. It offers over 150 services to a diverse clientele, including SMBs and Fortune 100 companies, across domains like call center operations, accounting, graphic design, and logistics support. Unlike freelance platforms such as Upwork, Office Beacon employs staff full-time or on a dedicated basis, ensuring HR compliance across countries like India, the Philippines, Mexico, and South Africa. This model provides advantages such as adherence to local labor laws, robust data security, and formal contracts that clarify work ownership.Pranav Dalal notes a rising demand for remote staffing, driven by businesses seeking global talent. Key trends include India's reputation for software development, the Philippines' call center expertise, and South Africa's emerging skilled workforce. Office Beacon is expanding in South Africa, focusing on roles like customer support and marketing to leverage local talent and address unemployment. The company identifies ideal clients as those willing to invest in growth, creating a positive feedback loop that benefits both parties. With a streamlined onboarding process and competitive pricing, Office Beacon offers an efficient path for businesses to access global talent and thrive in a competitive landscape.About Pranav Dalal:Pranav Dalal is the CEO and Founder of Office Beacon, a virtual and remote global staffing agency. His entrepreneurial journey began in mid-2001 when he traveled from Los Angeles to India, rented an office, hired five employees, and started Office Beacon—all within one week. In 2012, Pranav expanded Office Beacon's global footprint by taking over service facilities and employees from a subsidiary of VistaPrint in the Philippines. Now, with over 5,500 full-time employees globally, Office Beacon operates in India, the Philippines, South Africa, and Mexico. Pranav is particularly proud of growing the organization without partners, venture capital, or private equity while remaining the sole owner of the company.About Office Beacon:Office Beacon is dedicated to empowering businesses by providing reliable, flexible, and cost-effective staffing solutions that help organizations scale and thrive. Recognizing the unique challenges of business growth—from sourcing skilled talent to managing costs and ensuring operational efficiency—Office Beacon offers Remote Staffing as an innovative solution to eliminate traditional hiring obstacles and seamlessly expand teams.With over two decades of experience, Office Beacon has become a trusted partner for thousands of businesses, delivering the right talent at the right time. The company’s global workforce of over 5,500 professionals serves clients across 18 industries, offering more than 150 specialized services. Headquartered in Los Angeles, with service centers in India, the Philippines, Mexico, and South Africa, Office Beacon taps into a diverse global talent pool to provide tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of each client—no matter their location.Apply to be a Guest on The Thoughtful Entrepreneur: 

Navigating the Future of Technology ConsultingIn a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Nik Froehlich, the President and CEO of Saritasa, a technology consulting firm. The discussion centers around the evolving landscape of technology, particularly focusing on custom software development, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI), and the applications of virtual reality (VR) across various industries. This blog post delves into the key themes and insights from the episode, providing actionable advice and thorough explanations for businesses looking to leverage technology to enhance their operations and competitiveness.Nik Froehlich begins by providing an overview of Saritasa, describing it as a technology consulting company that specializes in custom software development. Saritasa's work spans a wide range of clients, from startups aiming to innovate and improve the world to established businesses seeking to enhance their competitiveness and efficiency through tailored software solutions. Reflecting on the technological landscape since the company's founding in 2005, Nik notes the significant changes that have occurred, particularly with the advent of mobile technology and the rise of app development. The introduction of the iPhone democratized software development, enabling anyone to create applications and leading to an explosion of mobile apps and services.The conversation then shifts to the applications of VR in various sectors. Nik shares several compelling case studies that illustrate how VR is being utilized to enhance training and customer experiences. As the discussion progresses, Nik addresses the growing importance of AI in business operations. He notes that while many companies are eager to adopt AI technologies, it is crucial to understand that AI is a tool that should be integrated thoughtfully into existing processes. Towards the end of the episode, Nik offers valuable insights for clients looking to hire developers, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and understanding the development process. This episode serves as a valuable resource for business leaders looking to understand the significance of technology in their operations and encourages proactive engagement with technology, fostering a mindset of innovation and growth in the competitive business landscape.About Nik Froehlich:Nik Froehlich is the Founder and CEO of Saritasa, a technology consulting company focused on delivering innovative software solutions that drive business growth. With a deep passion for empowering organizations through technology, Nik is committed to helping businesses unlock new opportunities and enhance their operational efficiency through custom-built digital products.Before founding Saritasa, Nik spent 20 years successfully running and expanding a construction-related service company, where he leveraged emerging technologies to solve complex business challenges and streamline processes. Drawing from his extensive experience in both business and technology, he transitioned from his previous venture to create Saritasa, a company designed to help other businesses harness the power of technology to propel their success.Nik thrives in his role as a leader and enjoys working alongside the talented team at Saritasa, where collaboration and innovation are at the core of their work. Outside of his professional life, Nik is supported by his life-long partner and their four children, who inspire him daily with their intelligence, work ethic, and self-motivation.About Saritasa:At Saritasa, the mission is simple: empower businesses through innovative technology. The company specializes in designing and developing custom, commercial-grade software systems that streamline complex operations, enhance user experiences, and provide scalable,

Sales Strategies for the Digital Age: Adapting to New Consumer HabitsIn the latest episode of The Thoughtful Entrepreneur, host Josh Elledge welcomes Geoffrey Reid, CEO of marcusevans Group, consultant, professor, bestselling author, and speaker. Geoffrey's book, "The Revenue Catalyst: Mastering the Art of Sales," serves as the foundation for their discussion, which explores the complexities of sales education, evolving sales practices, and the importance of structured sales processes. This episode offers actionable advice and thorough explanations to help listeners master the art of sales.Josh begins by highlighting the significance of relationship-building in sales, sharing his experience with over 2,000 leaders to identify the best business sources. He promotes a free video resource on his website that outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound sales without spam, ads, or aggressive tactics. The conversation with Geoffrey sets the stage for a deep dive into sales strategies, emphasizing the need for strong methodologies and structured processes to optimize revenue.Geoffrey shares his journey from a sales executive with no prior experience to a successful CEO and author. He discusses the gap in sales education within traditional business curricula, which often focus on finance, accounting, human resources, and marketing. The episode delves into the current sales landscape, addressing misconceptions and emphasizing the importance of consultative, relationship-focused approaches. Geoffrey's insights, combined with Josh's perspective, provide listeners with valuable strategies to enhance their sales performance and build sustainable client relationships.About Geoffrey Reid:Geoffrey Reid began his career over thirty years ago as a public policy analyst in the Canadian Public Service after completing an undergraduate degree from Bishop’s University. In recent years, he has been serving as a CEO for a private multinational company with fifty locations around the world and is a global leader in business events and sales.In between, Geoffrey added a master’s degree, pursued doctoral studies, and worked as a self-employed mediator, trainer, and consultant for both public and private sector clients. In the five years that preceded his career shift to sales, Geoffrey also worked as an adjunct professor with the School of Graduate Studies at Concordia University in Montreal, Canada, teaching negotiation, mediation, and conflict resolution at the master’s level.Geoffrey began his sales career in Montreal in the year 2000 in a junior sales position, with the primary objective of learning sales—something he knew nothing about at the time. At the end of his first full year in sales, Geoffrey had generated more new personal sales revenue than any other employee in North America. Shortly thereafter, he entered management, and rose through the ranks to take local then national responsibility for all offices in Canada.In 2014, he was given international responsibilities and moved to global headquarters in London UK to accept a chief executive officer position, taking approximately one hundred flights per year to support offices in Asia, Europe and North America.His most satisfying contribution is having hired and/or developed, directly or indirectly, the majority of the current top sales performers, managers, and directors. Much of this satisfaction comes from Geoffrey having had the opportunity to share skill sets that have allowed his employees to generate top-end incomes for their own benefit and that of their families.Since the pandemic, Geoffrey has returned home to Montreal to play similar roles. He is now traveling less and using Zoom more. This has allowed him more time to share more broadly what he has learned in his quarter-century sales career to help make up for the lack of sales education that exists in most business schools and...

Productizing Your Services: Effective Strategies for Attracting Clients EffortlesslyIn a recent episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur podcast, host Josh Malone engaged in a conversation with Jay Melone, the founder and CEO of Profit Ladder, about innovative strategies for service-based business owners. The discussion focused on attracting clients without traditional prospecting methods, a common challenge for many professionals. Jay shared his journey from struggling with high-ticket sales to developing a system that allows clients to access his expertise through affordable, productized offers. This episode offers a comprehensive breakdown of key insights and actionable advice.Jay Melone recounted his early consulting experiences, highlighting the challenges of traditional sales methods like prospecting and pitching, which often led to frustration and burnout. He emphasized the misalignment between these methods and the integrity many professionals wish to maintain in their business practices. Recognizing these limitations, Jay introduced the "reverse flywheel" concept, which focuses on attracting clients by offering valuable resources upfront. This approach allows service providers to demonstrate their expertise and engage potential clients without the pressure of relentless outreach.One of the core ideas Jay discussed is the importance of productizing services. By breaking down complex consulting frameworks into accessible toolkits, he enables clients to engage with his expertise at a lower risk. This strategy not only builds trust but also increases the likelihood of clients seeking comprehensive services. Jay also stressed the significance of understanding customer personas and tailoring offerings to different client preferences. By offering a range of resources, service providers can cater to both DIY clients and those seeking direct engagement, ultimately creating a pathway for potential clients to experience the value of their services.About Jay Melone:Jay Melone has been an entrepreneur for 15 years. He launched his rst business, New Haircut, in 2010. But he quickly realized how challenging it is to grow a small business. In between client projects, he’d make time to market and sell. He spent countless hours prospecting and pitching, often leading to proposals that went unanswered. He sat stuck on that soul-sucking hamster wheel for over a decade. Then in 2020, facing full-on burnout, he began experimenting with a dierent way to grow the business. He packaged his premium, done-for-you services into aordable, do-it-yourself products. Online courses, toolkits, and templates that his market could use to solve their own problems. These productized oers were packed with value that established trust with his audience and demonstrated his expertise. And because Jay charged a small fee, they also helped to generate a new, passive revenue stream. But here’s the biggest positive that came from productizing… The customers of his products began asking for Jay’s premium services. By the time Jay met with them during a sales call, they were already 80% sold because of the value they’d gotten from his products. Jay had created a series of free and low-ticket oers that attracted his ideal customers, lled his pipeline, and stabilized revenue – a ywheel. He had automated his marketing and sales, freeing him up from the grind of daily business-building. To date, Jay’s ywheel has produced $80k in product revenue and $900k in premium service revenue, with a net prot increase of 1,810%. Because of this experience, Jay launched Prot Ladder in late 2023 to help fellow service-based business owners grow their prots. He provides strategic advisory to help them identify and launch productized versions of their services that automate their marketing and sales.About Profit Ladder:Profit Ladder is a business growth...

Engage, Educate, and Convert: The Webinar Approach to Digital MarketingIn a recent episode of *The Thoughtful Entrepreneur*, host Josh engages with Andy Audate, the founder and CEO of AudateMedia, to explore the nuances of digital marketing. Andy shares his inspiring journey from being the youngest T-Mobile franchise owner to leading a global marketing agency that aids small businesses in automating customer relationships. This discussion highlights the effectiveness of webinars, the importance of addressing specific pain points, and the creation of engaging content that resonates with potential customers.Andy Audate’s entrepreneurial path is remarkable. At just 19, he opened his first T-Mobile franchise, quickly recognizing the potential of digital marketing. This insight led him to pivot and establish Audate Media, a marketing agency focused on helping small businesses connect with prospects and automate customer interactions through digital channels like email and text messaging. His early success underscores the importance of recognizing market trends and adapting accordingly, while his transition to a digital marketing expert highlights the need for continuous learning and adaptation in business.A significant part of the conversation revolves around the power of webinars as a marketing tool. Andy emphasizes that webinars can effectively engage potential customers, especially when they address specific pain points. Webinars provide educational value, offer an interactive format for real-time engagement, and can reach a large audience simultaneously, making them an efficient tool for mass communication. Andy advises focusing on specific pain points, providing actionable solutions, and incorporating interactive elements to keep the audience engaged. By following these strategies, businesses can enhance their digital marketing efforts, connect with their target audiences more effectively, and ultimately drive better results. For more insights, visit andyaudate.com.About Andy Audate:Andy Audate is a renowned small business marketing expert and the founder of Progreda. With a proven track record, he specializes in assisting small businesses in effectively marketing their high-ticket services through webinars that have attracted over 9,500 entrepreneurs. Andy's SaaS has achieved a seven-figure run rate, and his guidance has empowered thousands of small businesses to create marketing campaigns that have collectively generated $20+ million in revenue.About AudateMedia:AudateMedia is a cutting-edge digital marketing and media solutions company focused on helping brands elevate their presence and connect with audiences through innovative, data-driven strategies. Specializing in content creation, social media marketing, and digital advertising, AudateMedia empowers businesses to tell their unique stories while maximizing their impact in the ever-evolving digital landscape.With a team of expert strategists, creatives, and analysts, AudateMedia combines industry-leading tools and methodologies to craft customized marketing solutions tailored to each client’s specific goals. Whether it's building a robust online presence, optimizing customer engagement, or driving conversions, the company offers a full suite of services, including SEO, PPC advertising, email marketing, influencer partnerships, and video production.AudateMedia places a strong emphasis on data analytics and performance measurement, ensuring that every campaign is optimized for maximum ROI and long-term success. Through its innovative approach and commitment to staying ahead of digital trends, AudateMedia is dedicated to helping businesses of all sizes navigate the complexities of digital marketing and achieve sustainable growth.With a client-first philosophy and a passion for creative excellence, AudateMedia is the trusted partner for brands...

Revolutionizing Cleaning Services: The Role of Technology and Franchise Innovation In a recent episode of "The Thoughtful Entrepreneur," host Josh engages in a compelling conversation with Adam Povlitz, the CEO and President of Anago Cleaning Systems. This episode delves into the unique business model of Anago, the current state of the cleaning industry, and the opportunities available for potential franchisees. Below, we break down the key insights and actionable advice shared during the episode.Josh opens the episode by inviting listeners to explore opportunities for introductions to partners, investors, influencers, and clients. He shares his experience of having private conversations with over 2,000 leaders to uncover where their best business comes from. Josh promotes a free video available on his website, which outlines steps to achieve 100% inbound marketing in any industry over the next 6 to 8 months, emphasizing a spam-free, ad-free, and sales-free approach. He encourages listeners to visit his website, upmyinfluence.com, to access this valuable resource. After the introduction, Josh welcomes Adam Povlitz to the show. Adam provides a brief overview of Anago Cleaning Services, explaining that it operates as a commercial cleaning franchise with a distinctive three-tier franchise model. Unlike traditional franchises, which typically have a corporate office and unit franchise owners, Anago's model includes a master franchise layer, creating a unique structure that separates operational and sales functions.Adam elaborates on the three-tier franchise model of Anago Cleaning Services. Unit franchisees are responsible for the actual cleaning services, managing crews, and handling the operational side of the business. Master franchisees focus on sales, marketing, and administrative aspects. Often experienced professionals from various industries, they thrive in the franchise system without engaging in hands-on cleaning work. Adam shares the history of Anago, noting that it began in 1989 as a traditional cleaning company. By 1991, it transitioned to a master franchise model, selling unit franchises and cleaning contracts. The company has since expanded significantly, now boasting 48 master franchises across the U.S. and Canada, supporting approximately 1,800 unit franchises.About Adam Povlitz:Adam is the CEO & President of Anago Cleaning Systems, an internationally franchised commercial cleaning brand headquartered in South Florida. He joined Anago in September 2009 and served as President since April 2015. He was appointed CEO in May 2018. In January 2010, he was Director of Human Resources / Franchise Development, and in September 2010, he was named Vice President - Operations. In 2013, Adam was promoted to Executive Vice President, and in April 2015, appointed President. Before joining Anago, he was employed by IBM Corporation as the Growth Initiatives & Expense Analyst. Adam holds an MBA from the University of Miami and a Lean Six Sigma Green Belt from Nova Southeastern University. He is a Certified Franchise Executive (CFE) and a Cleaning Industry Management Standards Certified Expert (CCE).Mr. Povlitz is also a thought leader on the Forbes Business Council and a regular contributor to Entrepreneur and Forbes publications. About Anago Cleaning Systems:With over 30 years of experience as a leader in the commercial cleaning franchising industry, Anago Franchisees have faced the majority of challenges. No matter if you’re a hotel looking for quality common area cleaning or a medical facility needing trustworthy cleaning and janitorial services, Anago is the right choice for you.Serving industries such as healthcare, education,...