Business Roundtable

In a world full of noise, how do you actually stand out?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with JoJo LaRicci, video strategist, super connector, and media veteran with over six decades of experience, to explore what it really takes to get seen, heard, and remembered in business and in life. JoJo shares her remarkable journey from learning photography at MIT at age eleven, to building recording studios, appearing on MTV, and reinventing herself during COVID to master video marketing and social media distribution. Her story is not just about media — it is about the principle of adding value at every turn and how that single habit changes everything. This conversation goes deeper than marketing tactics.David and JoJo unpack why transactional relationships repel opportunity, why most people are invisible online despite doing good work, and how servant leadership and intentional connection create the kind of influence that compounds over decades.JoJo also shares the personal daily practices that have kept her vibrant, focused, and generous at seventy-one. If you are a business owner, leader, or professional who wants to show up more powerfully, build real relationships, and create content that actually reaches people, this episode will challenge and inspire you. In this episode:Why adding value is the foundation of standing out in any industryHow to approach video, distribution, and online visibility the right wayWhy transactional networking kills relationships before they startThe power of building connections intentionally over decadesHow inner alignment drives outward influence and business resultsWhat JoJo does daily to stay energized, focused, and givingLinks mentioned in this episode:JoJo LaRicci on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jojolaricciBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

You don’t have a people problem — you have a system problem that’s showing up as a people problem.In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Joel Schwan, founder of Schwan Stratify, to unpack why hiring struggles, burnout, turnover, and workforce chaos are rarely about “bad employees” and almost always about broken or missing systems.With more than 20 years of experience in workforce strategy, HR, and operations, Joel has worked with organizations including Microsoft, Google, Uber, and growing small-to-mid-sized businesses. Together, David and Joel explore how leaders can move from reactive hiring and survival mode into intentional, scalable workforce strategy.This conversation dives into why hiring more people often makes problems worse, how unclear roles and poor onboarding quietly drain profit, and why workforce planning must be treated as an ecosystem — not a pipeline. Joel also explains when businesses should use contractors versus full-time employees, how capacity planning prevents burnout, and why succession planning and cross-functional skills protect companies from disruption.If you’re a business owner, executive, or team leader stuck in constant hiring cycles or overwhelmed by managing people, this episode provides clarity, practical frameworks, and a healthier way forward. In this episode:Why most “people problems” are actually system failuresHow broken onboarding and role clarity create turnoverThe five areas every business should audit in their workforceWhen to hire full-time employees vs. contractorsHow capacity planning and succession protect growthWhy leadership health and psychological safety matterBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Why do so many business owners see HR as an administrative cost instead of a growth engine?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, David Carr is joined by Bruce Nichols, a global HR executive and people-first strategist, to challenge the traditional view of human resources and reframe HR as a profit multiplier and strategic advantage.Drawing from decades of experience across private equity, Fortune 100 companies, startups, and high-growth organizations, Bruce explains why most businesses stall not because of sales or market demand, but because the right people are not in the right seats at the right time.This conversation explores how talent strategy, culture, and workforce planning directly impact profitability, scalability, and leadership effectiveness.David and Bruce discuss why many founders struggle to shift from doing the work to leading the business, and how intentional HR strategy helps leaders move from firefighting to sustainable growth. They also examine the role of AI in HR and why technology alone cannot fix broken processes. Bruce shares why people-first leadership, clear structure, and proactive planning are essential before layering in automation or artificial intelligence. Grounded in real client examples and leadership experience, this episode offers practical insight for business owners, executives, and professional service firms looking to grow without burning out or bleeding profit. In this episode:Why HR should be viewed as a growth engine, not a cost centerHow misaligned roles quietly drain profit and momentumWhat it takes to scale teams intentionally and sustainablyWhy hiring growth requires backward planning, not urgencyHow AI fits into HR strategy without replacing human judgmentLinks mentioned in this episode:Bruce Nichols on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucernicholsThe Human Resource Consortium: https://hrtalentsolution.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Why do organizations keep fixing symptoms instead of solving the real problem?In this episode, David Carr sits down with Hanna Bauer, leadership strategist and founder of HEARTnomics, to explore why misalignment between people, systems, and purpose quietly erodes performance, culture, and trust.Drawing from Hanna’s experience as a CEO, board chair, and executive advisor, this conversation examines what happens when organizations rely too heavily on process, technology, or structure without tending to the human side of leadership. David and Hanna discuss why communication breakdowns, burnout, and stalled execution are rarely people problems and almost always leadership and alignment problems.The discussion spans nonprofit, hospitality, financial, and technical environments, offering practical insight into how leaders can restore clarity, psychological safety, and accountability during growth, digital transformation, and cultural strain.Grounded in real executive experience and systems thinking, this episode reframes leadership as the responsibility to balance heart and rigor, humanity and execution, so organizations can perform without chaos or constant rework. In this episode:Why performance problems are usually alignment problemsThe hidden cost of over-relying on systems and processesHow leadership communication shapes culture and executionWhat it means to align people, purpose, and performanceWhy leadership growth must keep pace with organizational growthLinks mentioned in this episode:Hanna Bauer on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/bauerhannaHEARTnomics https://www.heartnomics.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Why do so many capable leaders feel exhausted, unfocused, or misaligned, despite doing everything right? In this episode, David Carr sits down with Sara Gayle, founder of EverKind Strategies, to explore how neurodivergence, burnout, and broken systems quietly undermine leadership effectiveness and what it actually takes to design environments where people can thrive. Drawing from Sara’s journey as a late diagnosed ADHD leader and her work with mission driven organizations, this conversation examines how clarity, kindness, and relational intelligence shape sustainable growth. Rather than treating focus and productivity as personal discipline problems, David and Sara reframe them as leadership and systems responsibilities. The discussion also explores how emerging tools like AI can support neurodivergent leaders by capturing ideas, reducing cognitive load, and restoring margin when used intentionally and ethically. Grounded in real leadership experience, coaching work, and collaborative systems design, this episode challenges the assumption that burnout is a personal failure and instead points to the power of alignment, community, and humane leadership structures. In this episode:Why burnout is often a systems issue, not a motivation problemHow ADHD and neurodivergence show up in leadership and teamsThe role of kindness and challenge in healthy leadership culturesHow AI can support focus, follow through, and clarityWhat it means to design work that fits real humansLinks mentioned in this episode:EverKind Strategies https://www.goeverkind.comSara Gayle on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/saradgayleTotally Normal Podcast hosted by Sara Gayle, available on major podcast platformsBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Why do so many networking conversations never turn into real opportunities? In this episode, David Carr examines the leadership dynamics behind stalled conversions and why relationship-driven professionals often struggle to move conversations toward commitment.Inspired by the operating principles of Success Champions Network, this conversation explores how leadership, structure, and accountability shape whether conversations lead to results.David also references the systems-focused leadership behind SCN, led by Jessica Gruber, whose work emphasizes training, infrastructure, and intentional community design to support sustainable growth across chapters worldwide. Drawing from real leadership engagements and collaborative work with founders, consultants, and professional organizations, this episode reframes sales and growth as a leadership responsibility rather than a transactional skill. In this episode:• Why conversations alone don’t create growth• The cost of avoiding challenge in leadership• How structure protects trust• What it means to guide rather than convinceLinks mentioned in this episode: Success Champions Network: https://successchampionnetworking.comJessica Gruber:https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-gruberhttps://jessicagruber.co/Buzzworks: https://buzzwks.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What if exiting your business did not mean selling out your people, your culture, or your legacy?In this episode, David Carr sits down with Kelly Finnell, President of EFS ESOP Consultants and one of the nation’s leading experts on Employee Stock Ownership Plans (ESOPs), to unpack how employee ownership can be a powerful succession and liquidity strategy for business owners.With more than 40 years of experience helping founders transition ownership, Kelly breaks down what ESOPs actually are, how they work, and why they are often misunderstood. Together, David and Kelly explore why ESOPs appeal to what Kelly calls “compassionate capitalists” — leaders who want to achieve full fair market value for their business while also protecting employees, preserving culture, and sustaining long-term legacy.The conversation covers how ESOPs differ from private equity and strategic buyers, how tax advantages play a critical role, and why alignment between owners, employees, and performance creates healthier, more resilient organizations.Grounded in real-world case studies across engineering, defense contracting, and professional services, this episode reframes succession planning as a leadership decision — not just a financial transaction. In this episode:What an ESOP is and how it works in plain languageWhy ESOPs are an alternative to private equity and third-party salesThe role of legacy, culture, and stewardship in ownership transitionsHow ESOPs align employee motivation with long-term performanceCommon myths and misconceptions about ESOPsWhat makes a company a strong (or weak) ESOP candidateLinks mentioned in this episode:EFS ESOP Consultants https://www.execfin.comKelly Finnell on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/esopcoachThe ESOP Coach (book by Kelly Finnell) https://www.esopcoach.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, David W. Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Stephanie Simpson, founder of Brand-ification, to explore the powerful intersection of leadership, message clarity, and brand confidence.Stephanie shares her journey from Warner Bros. to launching a brand strategy firm that helps business owners define who they are, what they stand for, and how to communicate it clearly. Together, they unpack why so many professionals struggle to articulate their value — and what it really takes to create a brand that connects.What You’ll Learn:The real difference between branding, marketing, and messaging.How to identify and speak directly to your ideal clients.Why clarity beats cleverness every time.How to “duplicate yourself” through better communication and systems.The missing link between brand clarity and leadership alignment.If you’re a founder, consultant, or leader ready to simplify your message and amplify your impact, this episode is for you.Connect with Stephanie Simpson🌐 Website: https://brand-ification.com📧 Email: stephanie@brand-ification.com🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/stephaniefifesimpsonBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What happens when a lifelong Star Wars fan turns his creative energy toward helping business owners tell better stories?In this episode, David W. Carr of Steward Your Business sits down with Roger Jorns, founder of Reanimation Design, fellow Success Champion Network member, and the creative mind behind the new LightsideCollectibles.com redesign. Roger shares how faith, humor, and storytelling shape his approach to design and how any small-business owner can transform their website into their best salesperson.You’ll learn:• Why clarity beats complexity in marketing• The three questions every website must answer• How the Hero’s Journey powers brand storytelling• What the Force can teach us about business balanceConnect:Reanimation Design → https://reanimationdesign.comLightside Collectibles → https://lightsidecollectibles.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What if your business plan actually worked?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Michael Stewart, founder of Business Planning PLUS and a member of Success Champion Networking (SCN). Together, they unpack how to turn your business plan from a static document into a living system that drives growth, alignment, and accountability.Michael shares his powerful football (soccer) analogy — mapping every department to positions on the field — and shows how the best organizations play like high-performing teams, with clarity, rhythm, and trust.💡 In This Episode You’ll Learn:Why most business plans fail and how to create one that lives and breathes.The 11 core areas every business needs to manage for successHow to develop a rhythm of accountability using “disclose, discuss, decide”The power of alignment and communication in leadership meetingsHow to plan for growth in uncertain markets and expanding internationallyWhy leadership and culture are two sides of the same coin🧠 Key Quote: “Most people spend more time planning their vacation than planning their business success.” — Michael Stewart🌐 Connect with Michael StewartWebsite: https://www.askmjs.co.ukLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelstewartuk 🎧 Listen, subscribe, and share this episode to help more leaders align strategy, people, and purpose to build teams that win.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

In this episode, David W. Carr of Steward Your Business and Davis Nguyen, founder of Purple Circle, share the systems and mindset that help coaches and consultants scale to $1 million in profit—without burning out. They unpack what it really takes to simplify operations, build scalable systems, and create a business that serves your life instead of consuming it. Key takeaways:How clarity beats complexity in business growthThe three pillars of the Purple Circle FrameworkBuilding a company that runs without youLeadership lessons for sustainable success Learn more: Purple Circle → https://joinpurplecircle.comAsk Davis: How to Scale My Career Coaching Business → https://askdavis.com/how-to-scale-my-career-coaching-businessBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Are you unknowingly paying more in taxes than you should?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David Carr, founder of Steward Your Business, sits down with Catrina M. Craft, CPA — a tax and wealth strategist known for helping entrepreneurs, agencies, and practice owners turn thriving businesses into wealth-building engines.Catrina reveals how her Craft Money Map System helps clients cut tax liability by 25 percent and boost profitability by 20 percent — by shifting from reactive accounting to proactive financial strategy.Together, David and Catrina explore:Why most accountants focus on compliance, not strategyHow to stop overpaying the IRS and start keeping more of what you earnTax-saving opportunities for 6-, 7-, and 8-figure firmsStructuring your business for growth, sale, and long-term wealthHow clarity in your financial vision drives confident leadership decisionsWhether you’re an AEC firm principal, professional service leader, or growth-minded entrepreneur, this conversation will help you transform how you steward your money, people, and purpose.Listen now to learn how to build lasting wealth with clarity, confidence, and strategy.Connect with Catrina Craft, CPA Website: https://craftmoneymap.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catrinamcraftEmail: hello@catrinamcraft.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What does it mean to co-think with AI instead of fearing it?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Philip Topham, Board and Executive AI Advisor, founder of CRAFT Thinking, and co-founder of SavionAI. Philip has published more than 130 essays on AI, is completing a new book on CRAFT Thinking, and helps boards and CEOs turn AI disruption into clarity, foresight, and measurable results.David and Philip explore how small-to-mid-sized professional service firms, executives, and boards can move beyond fear and begin leveraging AI as a tool for leadership, decision-making, and growth. Philip explains how AI is best understood as a “co-thinker”—augmenting human creativity rather than replacing it—and how intentional adoption and governance are key to success.In this episode, you’ll learn:Why AI should be seen as a co-thinker to enhance human creativityHow small businesses can integrate AI affordably without massive budgetsThe importance of governance and intentionality when adopting AIWhy company culture determines how AI should be appliedHow AI can reduce drudgery and free leaders to focus on relationships and growthIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive wrestling with what AI means for your future, this conversation will help you embrace AI as a leadership advantage rather than a threat.Connect with Philip Topham:Website: http://www.philiptopham.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/philiptophamSubstack: https://savionai.substack.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

How do you tell stories that move people to action?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Jennifer Crosswhite, founder of Tandem Services and an award-winning writer, editor, and ghostwriter. Jennifer helps leaders, entrepreneurs, and professionals harness the power of storytelling to communicate with clarity and impact. Jennifer shares how her career as a novelist and editor shaped her ability to help others craft authentic, engaging narratives that resonate with audiences. She explains why the story is the most powerful tool for building trust, influencing decisions, and leaving a legacy in both business and leadership. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why the story is the secret to capturing attention and building connectionHow to translate complex ideas into narratives people rememberCommon mistakes leaders make when telling their story—and how to fix themWhy story-driven communication is critical for influence and brand growthPractical tips to refine your message and connect with your ideal audienceIf you’re a leader, consultant, or business owner who wants to engage more deeply with your clients, teams, and market, Jennifer’s insights will help you tell stories that inspire, influence, and endure.Connect with Jennifer Crosswhite:Website: https://www.tandemservicesink.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jennifercrosswhiteBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

How can small business owners cut through the noise online and create content that actually connects?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Moniek James, digital marketing strategist, speaker, and founder of Renegade Creative Media Group. Moniek helps entrepreneurs and small business leaders build visibility and authority with practical, sustainable content strategies.Moniek shares her journey from military service to marketing leadership, and how she now equips business owners to create digital content that is both authentic and simplified. She explains why content is more than posts or videos—it’s about telling your story in a way that builds trust, resonates with your audience, and drives growth. In this episode, you’ll learn:Why most small businesses struggle to stay consistent onlineHow to create content that feels authentic and still drives resultsThe role of strategy vs. tactics in long-term digital marketingWhy clarity of message beats flashy production every timePractical ways to build authority and visibility on a budgetIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or entrepreneur overwhelmed by content creation, Moniek’s insights will help you focus on what really matters for digital growth.Connect with Moniek James:Website: https://www.themoniekjames.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniekjamesBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What does ERP really mean for your business—and why should even small companies care?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Chris Carter, four-time best-selling author, global SAP leader, and founder of Approyo. With more than three decades of experience, Chris has guided companies from $3 million startups to billion-dollar enterprises in implementing ERP systems that unify finance, HR, logistics, and operations into one source of truth.Chris shares his journey from high school entrepreneur to building one of the world’s most recognized SAP service providers. He breaks down why ERP isn’t just for massive corporations, how AI is changing enterprise systems, and what leaders must know to avoid costly mistakes in implementation. In this episode, you’ll learn:What ERP and SAP actually mean for scaling a businessWhy small and mid-sized companies can benefit from ERPCommon pitfalls in ERP adoption—and how to avoid themHow AI is reshaping ERP and competitive advantageWhy leadership and accountability are essential for successIf you’re a business owner, executive, or entrepreneur who wants to scale with clarity and confidence, Chris’s insights will help you embrace systems that drive growth.Connect with Chris Carter:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159Website: https://www.approyo.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Many business owners and nonprofit leaders are overwhelmed by the day-to-day tasks of running their organizations. From bookkeeping to HR, social media to project management, these critical functions can consume valuable time and energy. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Marney Lumpkin, President of Strategic Management & Logistics, about how outsourcing the right tasks creates clarity, capacity, and confidence for leaders.Marney shares her journey of building a flexible, U.S.-based team dedicated to helping solopreneurs, small businesses, and nonprofits scale without burnout. Together, David and Marney explore:Why outsourcing is the bridge between DIY and building a full internal teamHow Strategic Management & Logistics supports clients with bookkeeping, HR, social media, websites, cybersecurity, and moreWhy transparency, accountability, and flexibility are essential for building trustHow nonprofits benefit from discounted, values-driven supportWhy letting go of the right tasks is a growth strategy, not a weaknessIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or nonprofit leader feeling stretched too thin, this conversation will show you how to focus on vision, culture, and growth—while leaving the rest to experts.Connect with Marney Lumpkin:Website: https://strategic-management-logistics.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marney-lumpkinBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Most business owners eventually hit a ceiling: too many demands, too little time, and a constant pull in every direction. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr speaks with Justin Lund, entrepreneur, coach, and founder of Propel, about how leaders can break free from bottlenecks and reclaim both their time and their growth.Justin shares his powerful journey—from early success scaling a company to nearly nine figures, to losing tens of millions through poor systems and oversight, to rebuilding his career by helping founders master the essentials of business freedom. Together, David and Justin explore:Why most entrepreneurs get stuck in cycles of firefighting and burnoutHow mindset shifts open the door to sustainable growthThe three-part Founder Freedom Flywheel: mindset, systems, and delegationWhy skipping straight to delegation usually leads to frustration and wasted moneyThe Delegation Pyramid and why starting with admin, not leadership hires, is the key to scalingQuick wins that free up hours every week and reduce overwhelmIf you’re a founder, consultant, or professional services leader who feels trapped in your own business, this conversation will show you how to reset, regain clarity, and build a business that doesn’t depend entirely on you.Special Resource: DM Justin the word steward on Instagram to receive his free Founder Freedom Playbook—a practical guide with playbooks and checklists to start reclaiming your time today. Connect with Justin Lund:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/itsjustinlundLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justin-lund-propelBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

Most business owners treat their website, hosting, and logins as afterthoughts—until something breaks, gets hacked, or a vendor disappears. In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, host David W. Carr talks with Paige Wiese, founder of Tree Ring Digital, about why your digital presence isn’t just a marketing tool—it’s a critical business asset that can either fuel growth or expose costly risks. Paige shares her journey from launching Tree Ring Digital during the Great Recession to serving over 2,000 clients across various industries. Together, David and Paige explore:Why ownership of logins, domains, and hosting details is often the #1 blind spot for business ownersHow missing logins or expired assets can halt revenue and marketing overnightThe seven pillars of digital asset management that protect long-term growthHow to balance flexibility with consistency when managing websites, CRMs, and integrationsWhy proactive digital management saves time, money, and legal headachesIf you’re a CEO, consultant, or nonprofit leader building a resilient business, this conversation will help you see your digital presence as a strategic lever—not just a checkbox. Free Resource: Download Tree Ring Digital’s free Digital Asset Checklist at https://treeringdigital.com/roundtable to start identifying gaps and protecting your business today.Connect with Paige Wiese:Website: https://treeringdigital.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paigewieseBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business

What if AI could help you think more clearly, lead more effectively, and scale faster—without replacing your human touch?In this episode of the Business Roundtable Podcast, David W. Carr speaks with Kyle Becker, Founder of Qualia AI, about the evolving relationship between AI and human leadership. Kyle shares his journey in startup innovation and why he believes AI should serve as a thinking partner rather than a replacement for leaders. This is not hype—it’s a grounded, strategic conversation about where AI meets emotional intelligence, decision-making, and growth.You’ll learn:What leaders get wrong about using AIWhy AI should assist, not replace, human thinkingHow Kyle built Qualia AI to enhance real-world productivityThe importance of systems thinking and decision structureHow to balance technology with timeless leadership valuesThe ethical challenges and blind spots leaders must confrontWhy authenticity still beats automation in client relationshipsIf you’re a business owner, consultant, or executive exploring AI but want to maintain your leadership edge, this episode will help you approach AI as a powerful ally for clarity, efficiency, and growth.Connect with Kyle Becker:Website: https://www.qualiaai.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kylejbeckerBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/business-roundtable--6049255/support.Connect with Steward Your Business:Book a conversation: https://calendar.stewardyourbusiness.com/ccCall: +1 909.404.9865Website: https://stewardyourbusiness.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidwcarrWatch more episodes  and subscribe on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/@steward_your_business