Smashing the Plateau
Launched in 2014, Smashing the Plateau shares weekly stories, strategies and ideas to help consultants, coaches and small business owners build success as entrepreneurs following long careers as high-achieving employees. We believe you should be able to take control over your career destiny, do what you love, what you’re competent at doing, and get paid what you’re worth, consistently. We are committed to the success of expertise-based businesses. Ready to go even deeper? The Smashing the Plateau Community uses a structured, supportive process to implement the kinds of strategies we discuss in this podcast. It is a community that is b...
Mon, April 14, 2025
How to Create a Human-Centric Customer Experience that Resonates and Drives Business Results Featuring Simon Robinson
Simon Robinson is one of the pioneers of customer experience, having co-authored the world’s first article on customer experience strategy in 1995. In the 1990s, he served as the business development manager responsible for smartphones at British Telecom (BT Cellnet/O2) and was a co-founder of Genie Internet, one of the UK’s first startup unicorns developed inside BT Group. He is the Worldwide CEO of Holonomics, an international keynote speaker, and a bestselling author, including Designing Customer Experiences with Soul: How to Build Products, Services, and Brands that People Genuinely Love (2024). In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to redefine customer experience by integrating the concept of 'soul' into customer interactions. Simon and I discuss: The definition of customer experience and its key components [00:02:09] Common misconceptions organizations have about customer experience [00:03:23] The importance of understanding customer experience history [00:05:00] How to align departments for improved customer experience [00:06:56] The evolution of customer experience from human-computer interaction [00:08:02] The impact of AI and digital interactions on customer experience [00:10:52] The shift towards a more humanized approach to business [00:11:56] The role of community in building effective customer experiences [00:24:04] Learn more about Simon at: Medium: https://medium.com/@srerobinson Amazon: https://a.co/d/0jeQgFO Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/srerobinson1/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe now for exclusive insights featuring curated, brief strategy tips– unlocking your path to success is just one click away!
Mon, April 07, 2025
How to Transform Your Business with Storytelling and Community Engagement Featuring Renee Frojo
Renee Frojo has spent over 20 years helping businesses tell impactful stories. As the founder of A Good Reputation, Renee combines her journalism background with her passion for entrepreneurship to help purpose-driven startups, founders, fractional leaders, and freelancers uncover and share the stories that resonate most. Renee's relatable stories have earned her nearly 10,000 followers on LinkedIn. Through her signature approaches—Your Story is Your Strategy, which demonstrates how to build trust through personal storytelling, and Build it Publicly, a framework for overcoming the fear of vulnerability—Renee equips her clients to connect with the right audience, inspire action, and amplify their success. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to harness the power of storytelling to build trust and connect authentically with your audience. Renee and I discuss: Renee's lifelong passion for entrepreneurship [01:50] Her journey from journalism to entrepreneurship [03:06] The evolving landscape of personal branding [06:12] Challenges faced by professionals in the digital age [07:43] The importance of storytelling in marketing [10:12] Building authentic connections through personal storytelling [12:59] The role of community in business success [19:28] Learn more about Renee at https://www.instagram.com/reneelynnfrojo/ and https://x.com/frojofeed . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for insider access to curated, actionable strategies– unlocking your success is just one click away!
Mon, March 31, 2025
How to Use Ghostwriting and Marketing to Establish Expertise and Influence Featuring Michael Schein
Michael F. Schein ghostwrites books that make business leaders, executives, and entrepreneurs famous in their fields. He is the founder of the marketing and consulting company MicroFame Media, and some of his clients have included Lockton, eBay, Magento, the University of Pennsylvania, the United Methodist Publishing House, LinkedIn, and Citrix, to name a few. His writing has appeared in Fortune, Forbes, Inc., Kitces, Business Insider, Psychology Today, and the Huffington Post, and he is a speaker for international audiences, spanning from the northeastern United States to the southeastern coast of China. His book, "The Hype Handbook: 12 Indispensable Success Secrets From the World’s Greatest Propagandists, Self-Promoters, Cult Leaders, Mischief Makers, and Boundary Breakers," published by McGraw Hill, is available wherever books are sold. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to harness the power of strategic marketing and ghostwriting to become a recognized thought leader. Michael and I discuss: Michael's journey from copywriting to marketing consultancy [02:18] The concept of becoming a "micro celebrity" [06:10] The importance of having a book to establish expertise [07:00] Overcoming the fallacy of scale in business [08:12] The impact of community on professional success [16:34] How to balance intuition and external advice [18:00] Michael's insights on thinking like a scientist to find your niche [21:35] Learn more about Michael at https://microfamemedia.com and https://michaelfschein.com . Contact Michael directly at: - Email: mfs@microfamemedia.com - Phone: (917) 273-9885 Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive access and strategic insights – subscribe now and take the first step towards mastering success!
Mon, March 24, 2025
How to Understand Your Money Brain and Make Confident Financial Decisions Featuring Jeannie Dougherty
Jeannie Dougherty is a money expert and mental fitness guide who can help you rewire your money brain and make your money work for you. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to break free from stressful money cycles and harness a positive money mindset. Jeannie and I discuss: The power of believing you are more than your money [00:00:24] Understanding the emotional aspects of financial decisions [00:03:03] The concept of the "money brain" and its impact on behavior [00:07:02] Practical steps to change your financial narrative [00:09:06] The importance of taking actionable steps to improve cash flow [00:10:28] Shattering your own glass ceiling in business [00:12:55] Building a supportive community for financial success [00:18:21] Jeannie’s mission with the caregiver conference [00:20:43] Learn more about Jeannie at https://globalmoneycoach.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for insider access to focused strategy tips from our podcast guests – take the leap towards success with a simple click!
Mon, March 17, 2025
How to Redesign Your Life After a Professional Setback Featuring Scott Couchenour
Scott went from being gainfully employed to bankrupt to experiencing a breakthrough. In 2015, after 27 years of top-level leadership in a national multimillion-dollar family business, the door slammed shut, and Scott found himself a 50-year-old without a career. After a period of dark days and months, he knew he had to rebuild and rediscover his identity. Through trial and error, mistakes, and victories, Scott became proficient at problem-solving and executing a plan. He began to experience the joy of his newly discovered freedom. He is doing what he loves and earning a living doing it. This experience has given Scott a unique vantage point to understand the life of business owners or executives who are facing a transition in their careers and don’t know what their next act looks like. Scott has dedicated his hero's journey to helping others transition from executive to freelancer. He has honed the skills and methodology to reach clarity more quickly and accelerate progress. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to break free from living by default and design a fulfilling life. Scott and I discuss: Scott's journey from gainfully employed to bankrupt to breakthrough [01:36] The impact of the 2008 financial collapse on his career [03:12] Discovering the importance of identity beyond career roles [05:45] How to transition from living by default to living by design [07:58] The six hallmarks of a fantastic fourth quarter [10:02] Strategies for iterating and executing a new life plan [12:34] The role of community in navigating transitions [15:10] Tips for finding the right support network [18:25] Learn more about Scott at https://www.servingstrong.com/join . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for exclusive insights and practical strategies– your path to success is just a click away!
Mon, March 10, 2025
How to Address Work-Life Imbalance and Stress in the Workplace Featuring Jahmaal Marshall
Jahmaal Marshall is a corporate wellness advocate and leader who reshapes work cultures to prioritize mental health. With a 12-year track record, he equips executives and HR professionals with strategies to combat burnout and stress, teaching them how to have more energy and increase their focus and drive to thrive both professionally and personally. Through consulting and coaching programs, Jahmaal addresses deep-seated challenges such as constant stress, feelings of doubt, worry, and work-life imbalance. His solutions foster healthier work environments, yielding more present, energized employees and a more robust bottom line for the company. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to create a supportive workplace culture that prioritizes mental health. His early career and the progression to a corporate wellness advocate [00:01:55] The impact of personal experiences on his professional mission [00:03:09] Transitioning from government work to in-depth counseling [00:04:10] The signs of overworking and its long-term effects on health [00:07:07] The development of his Rewire and Renew framework [00:08:39] How personal crises influenced his professional perspective [00:09:17] The transformative effect of setting boundaries in professional life [00:15:37] His approach to content creation and community building on LinkedIn [00:12:15] Learn more about Jahmaal at: (Burnout Mini-Course): https://jahmaalmarshall.podia.com/https-jahmaalmarshallpodiacom-the-burnout-mini-course?coupon=SMASHTHEPLAT2025 (Discovery Call): https://calendly.com/listenthenspeak/30min Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up today for premium access to expertly curated, succinct strategy tips– your pathway to success starts with a simple click!
Mon, March 03, 2025
How to Use SEO and Marketing Strategies for Effective Content Creation Featuring Alison Ver Halen
Alison Ver Halen majored in English and Psychology without realizing she was obtaining the perfect degree for content marketing. It wasn't until a few years after she graduated, when a family friend asked her to write blog posts for his law firm, that she realized she could make money doing what she loves. Fast forward to today, and Alison is still writing blog posts, as well as website landing pages and emails. She also integrates SEO and marketing strategy into the content she writes to give her clients the best chance of attracting, engaging, and converting their ideal clients. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transform your passion for writing into a successful business. Alison and I discuss: How Alison stumbled into content marketing as a career [01:54] The importance of talking about your passion [02:05] Finding your community and networking effectively [03:38] The evolution of Alison's business model [06:01] The significance of SEO and marketing strategy in content creation [09:11] How to track what works and what doesn't in your business [10:31] The role of consistent content creation in building trust [13:00] Tips for professionals struggling with content creation [14:54] The importance of distribution channels for your content [16:21] Alison's approach to leveraging YouTube and podcasts [18:00] Learn more about Alison at: https://avwritingservices.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@alisonverhalencontentmarketer https://www.amazon.com/Content-Marketing-Made-Alison-Halen-ebook/dp/B09YL7K6XY/ref=sr_1_9 Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe for exclusive strategy advice from our podcast guests – transform your path to success with just one click!
Mon, February 24, 2025
How to Enhance Your Leadership Skills for a Fulfilling Career Path Featuring Tammy Gooler Loeb
Tammy Gooler Loeb is an executive leadership and career coach, speaker, and facilitator with expertise in leadership, team development, organizational culture, communication, and career transitions. For over two decades, she has enjoyed supporting clients across a wide variety of sectors and industries. Tammy is the author of the award-winning book, Work from the Inside Out: Break Through Nine Common Obstacles and Design a Career That Fulfills You . She hosts a biweekly podcast, Work from the Inside Out, featuring professionals who have transitioned their careers to more meaningful and satisfying work. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to redefine career success and find happiness in your professional life. Tammy and I discuss: The evolving definitions of career success and happiness [02:34] The impact of remote and hybrid work on career fulfillment [03:29] How to find balance between personal and professional lives [05:10] The importance of control over work environments [06:51] Challenges faced by new leaders in today’s organizations [10:27] Strategies for finding support in leadership roles [13:15] The value of community in overcoming leadership challenges [19:00] Learn more about Tammy at: https://www.instagram.com/tammygoolerloeb/ https://www.facebook.com/TammyGL/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now for exclusive access to curated, brief strategic tips from our podcast professionals – transforming your path to success is only a click away!
Mon, February 17, 2025
How to Use Storytelling for Career Advancement in a Changing Job Market Featuring John Neral
John Neral is an executive and career transition coach who helps mid-career professionals find a job they love or learn to love the job they have. He is also an author, speaker, and host of The Mid-Career GPS Podcast. When he’s not working, John is a professional bowler who continues to compete on the PBA Regional Tour. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the importance of storytelling and stability for career advancement in a rapidly evolving job market. John and I discuss: The current challenges facing mid-career professionals [02:05] Why stability is a primary concern in today’s economy [04:48] The importance of telling your story effectively [06:30] How to use evidence-based metrics to demonstrate your value [08:15] Techniques for keeping interviewers engaged [11:10] Strategies for leveraging your network effectively [14:20] The significance of personal boundaries for professional well-being [17:35] Learn more about John at: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnneral/ YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@johnneralcoaching Instagram - https://instagram.com/johnneralcoaching Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join us now for exclusive access to carefully curated, concise strategies from our podcast experts – take the first step toward your success with just one click!
Mon, February 10, 2025
How to Establish Credibility in Branding as a New Entrepreneur Featuring Philip VanDusen
Philip VanDusen is a branding consultant serving SMBs and entrepreneurs based in New Jersey, USA. As a thought leader, Philip shares his expertise in marketing, design, and entrepreneurship on YouTube to his 295k subscribers, in the Brand•Muse newsletter, the Bonfire mastermind community, and on the Brand Design Masters podcast. Philip has led creative teams in both global branding agencies and global corporations — serving as VP of Design for PepsiCo and Old Navy, and as Executive Creative Director at the iconic branding firm Landor Associates. Past clients include a host of Fortune 100 companies. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover how to navigate significant career changes and master the art of branding from a seasoned expert. Philip and I discuss: His reflections on what he might have done differently in his career [00:00] How he transitioned from a corporate role to entrepreneurship [02:13] The concept of career being more like a web than a ladder [02:52] Starting out in branding and the progression to where he is now [03:42] The importance of experiential learning over formal education in some fields [04:58] Dealing with imposter syndrome and the fear of uncertainty [06:18] The shift from working in real life to digital environments and adapting to new technologies [08:42] Advice for corporate refugees transitioning to their ventures [10:02] Establishing credibility and authority when starting new [11:39] The vital role of community in supporting career transitions [12:35] The importance of visual branding and consistency across platforms [14:01] How to start building a personal brand even before fully defining your services [16:35] Exploring the potential of digital content to attract and retain clients [21:06] Learn more about Philip VanDusen: WEBSITE https://www.philipvandusen.com BONFIRE MASTERMIND: https://philipvandusen.com.com/bonfire BRAND•MUSE NEWSLETTER https://www.philipvandusen.com/muse CREATIVE PROFESSIONAL COACHING https://philipvandusen.com/oneonone BRAND CONSULTING https://philipvandusen.com/brand-consulting LINKEDIN https://www.linkedin.com/in/philipvandusen/ YOUTUBE https://www.youtube.com/c/philipvandusen Thank you to our sponsor: <a href="https://smashingtheplateau.com/community/" targ
Mon, February 03, 2025
How to Make the Leap from Employment to Media Innovation Featuring Jon Leland
Jon Leland has been a media innovator for over 40 years, including serving as the founding director of creative services for the USA cable TV network. He has led video production and creative services companies for over 30 years. Currently, Jon is the host and producer of the Video Mojo video podcast and the creative director of the boutique marketing agency ComBridges, which delivers content, social media, and video marketing services, as well as AI creativity consulting. Jon's passion is supporting people in living more creatively and joyfully through his latest venture, the Creativity Sandbox Community. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, the critical role of community and networking in sustaining a business, and how AI can be harnessed to fuel creativity and innovation. Jon and I discuss: His journey from an employee to a media innovator and entrepreneur [00:21] How community and networking supported his career transition [03:48] The critical role of AI in creativity and marketing today [06:36] The evolution of his business and the multiple pivots over the years [08:01] The concept of "following the juice" and finding your passion [18:04] How to harness AI effectively for creative processes [18:29] Advice for corporate refugees looking to start their own business [24:08] Learn more about Jon at https://play.combridges.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive access now to carefully selected, concise strategy insights from our podcast experts – one click can set you on the path to success.
Mon, January 27, 2025
How to Craft a Successful Career Transition in the Speaking Industry Featuring Blair Nichols
Blair began his career in New York at the HarperCollins Speakers Bureau, a business he never knew existed. From there, he had the privilege of leading the Hachette and Simon & Schuster Speakers Bureaus for GTN (now UTA Speakers), before moving west to work with Keith Ferrazzi (author of "Never Eat Alone"). He served as his chief of staff for over three years and learned how keynote speaking can be strategically positioned for corporate coaching and consulting while also studying at UCLA Anderson. After a few temporary roles during his last year of business school, he returned to the Speakers Bureau world post-graduation. However, after signing and establishing talent, growing and scaling valuable assets and businesses for bosses with nothing to show for it after leaving, he had had enough. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the intricacies of the speakers bureau industry and how to leverage speaking engagements for business growth and personal success. Blair and I discuss: His journey from working at traditional speakers bureaus to founding his own firm [00:21] What initially drew him to the speakers bureau industry [01:49] The business model behind speakers bureaus and how they operate [03:00] His decision to pursue an MBA and how it influenced his career [04:11] The challenges of working under restrictive leadership and the push towards entrepreneurship [07:50] The strategic positioning of keynote speaking in business development [00:43] How his business model differs from traditional speakers bureaus and the focus on holistic client management [11:18] Advice for corporate refugees on leveraging speaking engagements [13:39] Learn more about Blair at https://calendly.com/bbn-cm/new-client-call . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Connect with us for insightful strategy tips from our experts, designed to help you master your success journey effortlessly.
Mon, January 20, 2025
How to Build Meaningful Partnerships for Entrepreneurial Success in PR Featuring Philippa Levenberg
Philippa Levenberg is the Co-Founder and Managing Partner of Sable Strategy, a senior-level strategic communications firm specializing in PR and reputation management for corporations, nonprofits, and trade associations. The firm was recently named to Inc. Magazine's 2024 "Best in Business" list. Philippa’s career has focused on leveraging digital, social, and paid media strategies to build employer brands, develop thought leadership programs, engage advocates, navigate crises, and shape policy outcomes. Prior to founding Sable, she led and grew digital media practices and products at several agencies, including a leading global public affairs firm within Publicis Groupe. She is based in the D.C. area. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage your experiences to build a resilient business and lead with impact in the evolving landscape of public relations. Philippa and I discuss: Why resilience is key in entrepreneurship [00:00] How Philippa's bi-continental life shaped her approach to business [02:12] Transitioning from journalism to PR and the evolution of media [03:07] The importance of digital and social media strategy in crisis communication [04:33] The flawed model of big agency PR and the creation of Sable Strategy [05:44] Empowering women in the workplace and the importance of senior-level consultancy [07:22] The role of partnerships in entrepreneurship and the support systems that matter [10:21] Lessons from the initial months of starting Sable Strategy and recognizing opportunities [10:59] The impact of COVID-19 on women in the workforce and entrepreneurship [21:44] Learn more about Philippa and her work at https://www.sablestrategy.com/ and https://www.linkedin.com/in/philippalevenberg/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Register now for exclusive access to our concise, expert-curated strategy tips from podcast professionals—your shortcut to success is just one click away!
Mon, January 13, 2025
How to Align Personal and Professional Goals for Success Featuring Debra Eckerling
Debra Eckerling is a goal strategist, workshop leader, and award-winning author and podcaster on a mission to change goal culture both inside and outside the workplace. As the creator of The DEB Method for simplified goal-setting, Debra works with individuals, teams, and businesses on personal and professional projects, networking strategies, and book proposal development. She hosts the GoalChatLive/GoalChat and Taste Buds with Deb podcasts and is the author of "Your Goal Guide" and "52 Secrets for Goal-Setting and Goal-Getting." In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Debra Erling, a goal strategist, workshop leader, and award-winning author and podcaster, has developed a systematic approach to setting and achieving goals in both personal and professional spheres. Debra and I discuss: How Debra's journey in corporate communications led her to her current role as a goal strategist [00:38] The common pitfalls professionals encounter in goal setting and how to overcome them [01:01] Debra's DEB Method for goal setting simplified and how it can align your personal and professional aspirations [01:25] The importance of having personal goals in the workplace and how it contributes to overall fulfillment [06:50] The steps to correctly set goals using the DEB Method: Determine your Mission, Explore your Options, Brainstorm your Path [09:38] How networking and building community play crucial roles in achieving one's goals and in business development [16:23] The impact of having multiple roles and identities on professional growth and networking [04:36] Learn more about Debra at: https://52Secretsbook.com https://thedebmethod.com/blog https://www.amazon.com/Your-Goal-Guide-Planning-Achieving/dp/1642501506 https://www.amazon.com/52-Secrets-Goal-Setting-Goal-Getting-Focused/dp/168481717X https://youtube.com/@thedebmethod https://linkedin.com/in/coastbunny Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now for exclusive entry to our handpicked, concise strategic advice from podcast experts – master your path to success with just one click.
Mon, January 06, 2025
How to Set and Negotiate Consulting Rates Confidently Featuring Liz Steblay
Liz Steblay is sometimes referred to as "the Yoda of solopreneur success." She isn’t small, green, or ancient, but she has mentored thousands of self-employed professionals, helping them realize their dreams of becoming solo entrepreneurs. With decades of experience in building her own solopreneur career, including the creation of two thriving businesses that serve independent consultants, Liz recently published her bestselling book, "Succeeding as a Solopreneur: Six Keys for Taking the Leap, Winning Clients, and Building Wealth." In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the essential keys to success as a solopreneur, including how to conquer fears, build thriving client relationships, and effectively set your consulting rates. Liz and I discuss: The importance of pedigree and confidence in setting consulting rates [02:04] How Liz transitioned from corporate employment to successful self-employment [02:57] The significance of proactive outreach and maintaining relationships [03:18] Key strategies to vanquish fear, uncertainty, and doubt as a solopreneur [04:35] The importance of being known for something specific within your field [10:14] How to negotiate and present your rates confidently [07:59] The crucial role of professional setup and appearance in consulting success [15:45] Strategies for effective taxation and wealth building for solopreneurs [21:00] Learn more about Liz and her work at http://www.SixKeys.info and http://www.IndependentConsulting.org . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe immediately to receive exclusive access to streamlined, precise strategy advice from our podcast experts – one click is all it takes to begin mastering your success journey!
Mon, December 30, 2024
How to Use Medical Expertise to Enhance Executive Coaching Practices Featuring Carla Fowler
Dr. Carla Fowler is an MD, PhD, and elite executive coach. For the last decade, she has been a secret weapon for scores of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and other senior leaders. Carla’s unique approach combines the latest research in performance science with timeless best practices to help top performers level up and achieve their goals. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to make bold career transitions, leverage your existing skills in new ways, and maximize your performance through strategic coaching. Carla and I discuss: Her early realization that the traditional medical career path wasn't for her [00:02:19] The critical role of challenges and how they shaped her career decisions [00:02:57] Insights into her transition from medicine to elite executive coaching [00:05:37] The importance of autonomy and designing a multifaceted life [00:05:10] How she navigated the early days of establishing a coaching practice [00:17:26] The strategic decisions not to pursue further formal education in coaching [00:12:45] Techniques for building a successful personal business and brand [00:20:21] The value of networking and personal connections in business development [00:17:26] Learn more about Carla at https://www.thaxa.com/p/smashing-the-plateau . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Secure your subscription today for exclusive access to tightly curated strategy advice from our podcast experts – start mastering your success journey with a single click.
Mon, December 23, 2024
How to Achieve Business Success by Defining Success on Your Own Terms and Building Community Featuring Holly Jean
Holly Jean Jackson is a Revenue and Performance Consultant, Speaker, Podcast Host, Author, and founder of Business Builder Throw Down. Her career spans technology, communications, organizational change, public relations, and content strategy. She has dedicated over 12 years to helping business leaders get their groove back physically, mentally, and emotionally. She led a Local to Global Policy Initiative to influence future leaders' impact on communities. Fun Fact: Holly played first chair clarinet at Carnegie Hall and is a black belt in karate. In her Peak Performance Blueprint, she takes a holistic and logistical approach to success. After all, one can’t have massive success in business without a life of equal or greater success. Business owners hire her to master the art and science of real success because most lack direction, action, and results. She helps define and design a business roadmap for impactful visibility, intentional profitability, and endless sustainability. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from corporate instability to building a successful consulting business through resilience and strategic community building. Holly and I discuss: What led Holly to start her own business [01:26] Why top performers get laid off [02:13] The difference between being a consultant and an employee [04:45] How to find and refine your niche [06:55] The importance of defining success on your own terms [10:59] How to tactically and financially prepare for a business transition [14:12] The role of community in achieving business success [16:16] Learn more about Holly at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyjjackson/ https://www.facebook.com/hollyjeanjackson https://www.instagram.com/coachhollyjeanjackson/ https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3ElvJLGqpJ2ThA9utJCqMg www.hollyjeanjackson.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now for privileged access to expertly curated strategy advice from our podcast specialists – your journey to mastering success is only a click away.
Mon, December 16, 2024
How to Embrace Vulnerability and Transform Your Career Path with Intuition and Empowerment Featuring Monika Sawyer
Monika started Mastermind Mentoring in 2023 after spending 23 years in the high-tech consulting world, where she focused on solving customer problems through technical innovation, growth strategy, and client relationship management. The entrepreneurial path found her when life threw her a curveball, and her position was eliminated. During that time of transition, she felt a heartfelt calling to pursue a path of service to others and became an intuitive life coach and healer. Now, she focuses on helping women become successful by reconnecting with their essence and inspiring greater awareness of the empowerment that comes from embodiment. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from a corporate environment to a fulfilling life of coaching and personal growth. Monika and I discuss: What led Monika to embrace change after her corporate career ended [00:02:13] Differences between working within large enterprises and nimble startups [00:04:08] How a profound health diagnosis prompted Monika’s journey toward self-discovery and healing [00:06:19] The impact of emotional and internal healing on personal growth [00:08:21] Techniques Monika used to trigger self-healing and remission [00:12:33] How Monika leverages community and authenticity for personal and professional development [00:18:00] Advice on maintaining openness and questioning everything to unlock new possibilities [00:20:26] Learn more about Monika at: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mastermind-mentoring/ Website: https://mastermind-mentoring.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mastermindmentoring/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for access to carefully selected strategy tips from our community, supporting you in mastering your path to success.
Mon, December 09, 2024
How to Break Free from Myths About Wealth and Transform Your Financial Impact Featuring Kellan Fluckiger
Kellan is the ultimate alchemist for entrepreneurial growth, a bestselling author of 20 books, and the founder of "Your Ultimate Life." Kellan helps entrepreneurs move mountains, melt barriers, and mobilize superpowers to achieve their dreams. Kellan's personal journey includes battles with depression and addiction. Now, he is committed to helping 300 million people create income and impact in the world by discovering, developing, and serving with their skills, gifts, and life experiences. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to integrate purpose, prosperity, and joy to live your ultimate life. Kellan and I discuss: His journey from personal challenges to ultimate life success [00:58] The role of money in creating impact [04:49] Dispelling common myths about wealth [05:14] Harnessing personal skills, gifts, and life experiences [08:31] The power of consistency over content [13:01] Strategies for overcoming self-doubt [13:59] Kellan's daily proactive practices [17:35] How community enhances growth and success [22:43] Learn more about Kellan at https://kellanfluckigermedia.com and https://yourultimatelife.ca . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe to receive thoughtful, strategic insights from our podcast experts—your next step toward success is just a click away.
Mon, December 02, 2024
How to Integrate Scientific Expertise and Human Skills for a Successful Coaching Career Transition Featuring Corinna Freitag
Dr. Corinna Freitag is an Executive Coach, Advisor, and Speaker with over 30 years of expertise in natural and human sciences, spanning university, industry, and continuing education. She coaches STEM professionals to overcome workplace challenges so that they look forward to Mondays again. She holds a Ph.D. in chemistry and is certified as an Executive Coach. She has lived in different countries and worked globally for over 18 years in the automotive and chemical industries, in various positions with colleagues ranging from the shop floor to Senior Vice Presidents. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from the corporate world to a fulfilling career in coaching. Corinna and I discuss: What led Corinna to become a coach [03:01] How Corinna integrated her scientific and human skills [04:34] Her experiences transitioning to self-employment [06:03] Challenges faced while building her own business [07:43] Who her ideal clients are [07:30] Strategies for breaking patterns that hold professionals back [08:47] The role of positive intelligence in coaching [09:27] Her personal growth and learning journey [06:53] Advice for others considering a career transition [13:20] Learn more about Corinna at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drcorinnafreitag/ ; http://www.corinnafreitag.de ; http://www.calendly.com/corinnafreitag/60min ; https://www.positiveintelligence.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe immediately for unique access to expertly crafted, concise strategy tips—your success journey is just a click away.
Mon, November 25, 2024
How to Achieve Business Success Through Strategic Planning and Community Engagement Featuring Jessica Lackey
Jessica Lackey is a strategy and operations advisor who blends business strategy, practical application, and a human-centric approach to create sustainable businesses. With a background in corporate leadership, McKinsey & Company consulting, and a Harvard Business degree, Jessica knows a thing or two about hustle culture and what it feels like to judge success by the bottom line at all costs. Now, she combines her deep experience in consulting, Fortune 500 operations leadership, and coaching to help businesses grow without sacrificing the well-being of their clients, team, and community. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to build a sustainable business without sacrificing wellbeing. Jessica and I discuss: Jessica's journey from corporate to entrepreneurship [02:07] The concept of enterprise thinking [02:58] Jessica's career transition to life coaching [06:05] The role of relationships in business success [10:32] Challenges in the first and second years of a new business [19:40] The power of community connections [22:23] Learn more about Jessica at: Website: https://www.jessicalackey.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jessicalackey_consulting/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessica-lackey/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/jslackey Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Unlock exclusive strategy insights by subscribing now—our podcast experts have mastered your journey to success, just a click away!
Mon, November 18, 2024
How to Overcome Project Pausing Fears and Seize New Opportunities Through Mindset Shifts Featuring Diana Acuna
Diana has spent the last 20 years in SaaS. She has expertise in sales, customer success, Six Sigma, and service delivery. She is currently the Senior Director of Transformation at Kantata. As a leader, Diana is passionate about leveraging emotional intelligence in the workplace to drive meaningful outcomes, and she speaks and coaches on this topic. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate career changes by harnessing emotional intelligence and mindset shifts. Diana and I discuss: The challenge of balancing passions and professional commitments [02:31] Strategies for overcoming the fear of pausing a project [04:00] How a mindset shift can create new opportunities [06:42] Tools and frameworks that aid in decision-making [07:14] The impact of reduced casual conversations in a remote work environment [10:29] How personal values align with professional roles [13:00] Diana’s thoughts on future career paths and passions [16:09] Learn more about Diana on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaacuna/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up today for exclusive insights and straightforward strategies from our podcast experts—your journey to success is just a click away.
Mon, November 11, 2024
How to Develop Essential Sales and Marketing Skills for Your Business Featuring Deborah Anne Coviello
Deb Coviello is an accomplished author, podcast host, and leadership expert in quality and operational excellence, known as the CEO Whisperer. Deb uses her 30 years of experience to help CEOs and C-suite leaders of tomorrow find peace of mind by providing solutions to their technical business issues and elevating their teams. Her book, "The CEO's Compass," is a go-to guide for navigating challenges and achieving lasting success. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from corporate work to entrepreneurship and the importance of community in navigating business challenges. Deb and I discuss: Her entrepreneurial journey and starting Illumination Partners [02:22] Building a personal brand and the need for sales and marketing skills [04:00] How to determine when to stay the course or pivot [06:12] The role of self-reflection and daily routines in success [08:21] Expanding into a media company and creating content [11:00] Targeting C-Suite leaders in her business strategy [14:25] Learn more about Deb at https://dropinceo.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Unlock exclusive insights by subscribing now. Get concise strategy tips from our podcast experts and start mastering your road to success with just a click.
Mon, November 04, 2024
How to Transform Solo Entrepreneurship and Overcome Challenges with Effective Community Support and Strategic Planning Featuring Boudewijn Bertsch
Bou is a leadership consultant who helps his clients discover how to bring out the best in themselves and others. He designs and delivers customized leadership development workshops for executive teams around the globe. Bou also has a thriving executive and life coaching practice. Together with his wife, Riva Greenberg, he supports people living with diabetes. He resides in Brooklyn, NY. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about navigating solo entrepreneurship in a turbulent environment using practical, data-driven strategies. Bou and I discuss: The importance of building on personal experience and podcast insights [00:00:00] Challenges faced by solo entrepreneurs after corporate careers [00:00:47] Overview of the SMASH system [00:03:40] The five elements of the SMASH framework [00:04:17] The role of thinking partners and community collaboration [00:07:08] Common challenges like marketing and staying relevant [00:10:45] How our book addresses entrepreneurial challenges [00:13:31] Learn more about Boudewijn at https://www.spimanagement.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Click to subscribe and gain exclusive access to our podcast experts' curated strategy tips—master your success journey effortlessly.
Mon, October 28, 2024
How to Utilize Self-Care Strategies for Effective Leadership While Transitioning to Entrepreneurship Featuring Boudewijn Bertsch
Bou is a leadership consultant who helps his clients discover how to bring out the best in themselves and others. He designs and delivers customized leadership development workshops for executive teams around the globe. Bou also has a thriving executive and life coaching practice. Along with his wife, Riva Greenberg, he supports people living with diabetes. He resides in Brooklyn, NY. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to successfully manage the emotional and psychological challenges of entrepreneurship after a corporate career. Bou and I discuss: The importance of self-care for effective leadership [00:00] Bao’s transition from quality management to leadership coaching [03:02] How the pandemic reshaped Bao’s coaching practices [04:00] Navigating changes and embracing emergence in business [08:13] Strategies for responding to unforeseen challenges [09:48] The role of AI and tech evolution in the modern job market [12:05] Key components of the upcoming book on transitioning to solo ventures [17:55] Importance of managing energy and time effectively [20:19] Learn more about Boudewijn at https://www.spimanagement.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join us now to get exclusive access to tailored strategy tips from our podcast experts—your path to success is just a click away.
Mon, October 21, 2024
How to Manage Legal Challenges Faced by Startups and Small Businesses Featuring Shahrina Ankhi-Krol
Shahrina Ankhi-Krol, Esq. is a distinguished attorney and the founder of Ankhi-Krol Law. Founded in 2012, Ankhi-Krol Law has become a leading legal service provider that caters exclusively to the needs of startups, small businesses, and entrepreneurs all over the country. The firm's areas of practice are Business, Contract, Trademark, and Copyright Laws. Shahrina has presented legal topics at countless business conferences, expositions, educational institutions, and on Law and Crime. She has also appeared on CNN, FOX, NBC, and CBS. She is a nine-time Rising Star Super Lawyer, a recognition given to no more than 2.5% of attorneys in each state, each year. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, Shahrina Anki Krol shares her valuable insights on the common legal challenges faced by new business owners. We delve into the importance of creating formal business entities, the crucial role of well-drafted contracts, and the significance of networking for business growth. Shahrina also discusses the impact of artificial intelligence in the legal field. Shahrina and I discuss: What it means to be a corporate refugee [02:23] Shahrina's journey from working at law firms to starting her own practice [03:23] The importance of creating a formal business entity [08:26] How to choose a memorable and trademarkable business name [12:04] Crafting effective contracts to protect your business [13:27] Methods to resolve disputes amicably [16:00] Utilizing artificial intelligence in legal strategies [18:33] Tapping into community to foster business success [20:53] Learn more about Shahrina at instagram.com/ankhikrollaw , facebook.com/ankhikrollaw , http://twitter.com/ankhikrollaw . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for exclusive access to sharp, expert strategy tips from our podcast – achieving mastery is just a click away.
Mon, October 14, 2024
How to Use Soft Skills to Enhance Team Performance and Leadership in Technical Fields Featuring Gloriana Teh
Gloriana Teh is the founder and owner of Claritas Consulting & Coaching. She equips leaders and organizations so their people and projects can thrive. Claritas Consulting & Coaching provides strategy and talent management consulting services to organizations, along with leadership and career coaching services. Prior to consulting, Gloriana was responsible for process development and optimization for a large specialty chemicals company. She pivoted from process development to people development after over 20 years of corporate experience. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to develop essential soft skills for leadership and team success. Gloriana and I discuss: What prompted Gloriana to transition from engineering to consulting [00:02:27] The role of soft skills in technical teams [04:31:8] Defining and understanding soft skills [00:05:11] The importance of human interaction for team collaboration [00:05:44] Initial consulting experiences and challenges [00:05:55] Designing and implementing a data visualization tool [00:07:17] Why digital transformation projects often fail [00:07:42] Applying core concepts across different disciplines [00:09:09] The impact of feedback and quick success on her consulting journey [00:09:39] Connecting personal strengths to business development [00:10:18] Identifying the ideal client and solving their problems [00:11:35] Upcoming opportunities and projects [00:12:17] The significance of emotional intelligence in leadership [00:13:00] Advice for transitioning from corporate to solo entrepreneurship [00:16:03] The importance of networking and community support [00:18:13] Learn more about Gloriana at https://claritas.harrisonassessments.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now to get exclusive, concise strategy tips from our podcast experts – your success journey starts with one click!
Mon, October 07, 2024
How to Master Effective Positioning and Understand Your Market Featuring Steven Lewis
Steven Lewis is a copywriter who draws on decades of experience in journalism and marketing to position experts as the obvious choice for their ideal clients. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to effectively communicate your expertise and position yourself for success as a corporate refugee. Steven and I discuss: Steven's journey from law to copywriting [01:45] The mistakes businesses make in positioning [06:27] The importance of understanding your target market [10:00] What people actually value in a service provider [14:32] How understanding your value can affect pricing [18:51] The role of community in personal and professional growth [24:11] Learn more about Steven at https://taleist.agency/guides/the-landing-page-checklist/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, September 30, 2024
How to Make Consistent Progress and Generate Momentum in Business Featuring Kayvon K
As a productivity and profitability expert, Kayvon helps entrepreneurs and business owners make consistent progress and generate momentum. In a world where information overload and execution shortages are rampant, he helps his clients implement the right growth strategies, in the right way, at the right time. Zero fluff. Just progress. Although he is a valuable resource to many, his specialty is working with coaches and consultants. Dr. Kayvon has been creating frameworks for improving both INCOME and IMPACT since 2006. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the keys to running a profitable coaching or consulting business. Kayvon and I discuss: The importance of first impressions and personal branding [02:02] Why Kayvon chose to focus on coaches and consultants [04:11] Essential steps to run a profitable coaching business [05:26] How to view your service as a product [07:47] The connection between commodities and products in business transactions [10:17] Overcoming internal and external obstacles to growth [12:35] The role of community and masterminds in business success [20:00] Balancing learning and execution for growth [18:36] Learn more about Kayvon at https://simplifyprofits.com/allcourses . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up for exclusive, focused strategy insights from our podcast pros – mastering success is just one click away.
Mon, September 23, 2024
How to Empower Educators Worldwide with AI Tools and Transform Online Learning Featuring Jessica Spencer
After nearly two decades in the corporate world, Jessica founded the educational media company Penguin Connective to create greater equality and opportunity in hard-to-navigate areas, including future readiness, foster-to-adopt, and transitioning to adulthood. She is the creator of AI Explorer Society and a ChatGPT for Teachers course that is currently serving over 1,800 educators from around the world. She lives near Raleigh, North Carolina, with her husband and their five kids. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the journey from corporate life to entrepreneurial success, and how diversification can solidify financial security. Jessica and I discuss: What motivated Jessica to leave her corporate career [02:23] The impact of her connective tissue disorder diagnosis [06:08] The importance of diversifying income streams [08:00] How she built Penguin Connective and its impact on educators [13:26] The role of AI in education and how it can be used ethically [14:34] Jessica's strategy for expanding her network through collaboration [11:29] Her focus for the upcoming year with AI Explorer Society [15:33] The value of community for entrepreneurs [16:36] Tips for corporate refugees to advance in their business [17:50] Learn more about Jessica at https://www.aiexplorers.io/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join today for exclusive, curated strategy tips from our podcast experts – mastering your path to success starts with one click.
Mon, September 16, 2024
How to Use Technical Skills to Create High-Impact Coaching and Newsletters Featuring Troy Larson
Troy Larson has over 40 years of software development and technical management experience, including five years at Amazon as a Solutions Architect. In 2022, Troy founded The Unique VA Experience, a Filipino-based coaching company that has trained nearly 300 VAs, providing opportunities for Filipinos who are looking to change careers and for stay-at-home parents looking to enter the workforce. In 2023, Troy launched The Developer's CEO Newsletter, building on his 40 years of experience, focused on the unique challenges faced by software developers who are running a small business or looking to start their own business. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage your technical expertise to create impactful coaching programs and newsletters. Troy and I discuss: Troy's journey from a Commodore 64 to founding his own business [02:33] The motivation behind launching the Unique VA Experience in 2022 [03:15] The challenges faced and lessons learned in the VA coaching realm [04:00] The significance of embracing uniqueness in career coaching [04:49] Structuring monthly internship programs for VAs [05:20] The iterative process and unexpected successes, like the bootcamp initiative [07:00] Harnessing community for entrepreneurial support and development [08:00] The benefits of using OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) in a community context [11:00] The public accountability effect of OKRs and the peer pressure involved [12:56] What corporate refugees can learn from using OKRs to achieve their goals [16:12] Learn more about Troy at https://troylarson.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe today for exclusive, bite-sized strategy advice from our podcast experts – achieving success has never been this easy with just one click!
Mon, September 09, 2024
How to Build a Successful Business and Triple Your Income Featuring Tina Collura
Tina Collura is an award-winning Productivity and Business Development Coach who leverages over 14 years of entrepreneurial expertise to drive businesses from surviving to thriving. Through personalized consultations, she helps business owners develop growth models that secure deals and triple entrepreneurs' income swiftly. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the challenges solopreneurs face when transitioning from corporate careers to successful entrepreneurship. Tina and I discuss: Common struggles for solopreneurs [00:02:00] The importance of self-marketing and networking [00:02:27] Developing the right mindset and discipline [00:04:00] Steps to initiate and test your business model [00:04:33] Running pilot sessions and gathering feedback [00:05:45] Building confidence and the value of persistence [00:07:00] Differences in selling as an entrepreneur [00:08:30] The impact of building strong relationships [00:09:32] Tina's career journey and key learnings [00:10:48] The significance of community for entrepreneurs [00:17:00] Learn more about Tina at https://hihello.me/p/abf99156-04af-433a-abbc-44ceeddcfcb7 . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive, streamlined strategy insights from our podcast experts—one click to start mastering your path to success!
Mon, September 02, 2024
How to Enhance Your Online Presence and Transition to Entrepreneurship Successfully Featuring Ahsan Karim
Ahsan Karim is a business strategist and founder of Light Vision Group. His company helps businesses generate more revenue with online marketing. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the journey of transitioning from a corporate career to becoming a successful entrepreneur and the importance of building an online presence. Asan and I discuss: What triggered Asan's interest in being an entrepreneur His first experience as an entrepreneur How he learned marketing His ideal client for Light Vision Group The role of community in entrepreneurship Upcoming projects to help entrepreneurs enhance their online presence Learn more about Asan at https://lightvisiongroup.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join our subscribers for exclusive, concise strategy tips from our podcast experts – your path to success starts with a single click!
Mon, August 26, 2024
How to Build a Business by Adapting Corporate Skills and Embracing Risk Featuring Erin Marcus
Erin Marcus is the founder and CEO of Conquer Your Business, an international company helping driven entrepreneurs and small business owners achieve the financial and emotional freedom they need to build a business and life they’re proud of. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to unlearn corporate habits and develop a mindset for entrepreneurial success. Erin and I discuss: The necessary unlearning process from corporate to entrepreneurship Utilizing corporate skills like delegation in small business The importance of risk tolerance and testing in the marketplace Overcoming ego and adapting to creating your own path The significance of mindset in achieving business goals Strategies for dealing with financial and self-worth challenges The role of community and networking in entrepreneurial success Learn more about Erin at: Conquer Your Business | Erin Marcus | Business Consulting Instagram (@erinmarcusconqueryourbusiness) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinmarcusconqueryourbusiness/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/erin.marcus.3 Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLFD-aM6LmA10FQ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive access to expertly curated strategy tips from our podcast – streamline your path to success with just one click!
Mon, August 19, 2024
How to Apply Basic Work Design Principles for Organizational Success Featuring Thomas Bertels
Thomas Bertels is a management consultant and business transformation expert on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has more than 25 years of experience helping companies across a range of industries, from startups to Fortune 5, transform how work gets done. Thinkers360 has recognized Thomas as a Top 50 Thought Leader on the Future of Work and Design Thinking. Before starting Purpose Works in 2021, Thomas was a founding partner at OXYGY/Valeocon. Earlier in his career, he held leadership roles at Aon Consulting and ABB. Thomas has written several books and numerous articles on work design, process improvement, business transformation, and organizational learning. His latest book is Fixing Work: Designing Jobs Employees Love (Greenleaf Book Group). He is also the host of the Work Matters podcast, where he explores in conversations with thought leaders and executives what leaders can do to fix work. Thomas and I discuss: Thomas’s motivation for writing his latest book Why Thomas chose to write a business fable The process of writing an allegory Differences between writing an allegory and a traditional business book The impact Thomas hopes his book will have The connection between the book and Thomas’s business Challenges Thomas foresees for thought leaders today What successful consultants do differently How Thomas would start his consulting business today Basic principles of the work design framework The role of community in achieving professional success Learn more about Thomas Bertels at: Homepage www.purpose.works Book Site www.fixing-work.com Newsletter purposeworks.substack.com Diagnostic www.mymojo.works Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@WorkMatterspodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasbertels/ , https://www.linkedin.com/company/purpose-works-consulting Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sig
Mon, August 12, 2024
How to Shift from Self-Employment to Entrepreneurship in the Translation Industry Featuring Jason Willis-Lee
Jason Willis-Lee is a popular translator trainer and has given presentations on various business topics aimed at freelance translators and interpreters for ProZ, BP, CIOL, and Training for Translators. He co-founded the Collaborative Networking Translation Project, Medico-legal Translations ( www.medicolegaltranslations.com ). As a solopreneur, he recently launched a podcast called 'How to Find More Direct Clients,' aimed at early career professional linguists, and he uses his professional expertise to run the 'How to Find More Direct Clients' online course." In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the evolving landscape of the translation industry and leverage your expertise to build a successful business. Jason and I discuss: What motivated Jason to go solo The transition from generalist to specialist The difference between being self-employed and entrepreneurial How Jason stretches himself through entrepreneurship Navigating the challenges in the translation industry The importance of leveraging AI and technology The role of community in business growth Personal branding and its significance for freelancers Learn more about Jason at https://entrepreneurialtranslator.com/training-for-translators/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive access to expertly curated strategy tips by subscribing now – achieving success is just a click away!
Mon, August 05, 2024
How to Design Effective Business Processes and Focus on Productized Services Featuring Wayne Pelletier
After 25 years as a creative professional, Wayne founded Resonant Pixel Company just three years ago. The business experienced some early rapid growth, but it wasn't the business Wayne wanted. He has since transitioned the company into productized services, helping small businesses leverage the Squarespace platform to go from having an informational brochure-ware website to a transactional growth engine. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from rapid early growth to a business model that aligns with your values and goals. Wayne and I discuss: How Wayne transitioned from unemployment to starting his business [03:00] Realizing the need to change his initial business model [04:49] Narrowing the focus and shedding off certain technologies [06:00] The importance of building processes and hiring [05:43] How to design effective business processes [09:01] Wayne's approach to hiring and testing new hires [10:48] Examples of unexpected wins in hiring [12:43] The benefits of having a subscription-based revenue model [19:00] Wayne’s ideal client profile [20:00] Future plans and goals for Resonant Pixel Company [21:42] The importance of being part of a community like Smashing the Plateau [22:46] Learn more about Wayne at: https://resonantpixel.co/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Unlock exclusive, succinct strategy insights by subscribing now – mastering your success pathway is just a single click away!
Mon, July 29, 2024
How to Transition to Entrepreneurship with Effective Delegation Featuring Kyle Walburn
Kyle Walbrun is the Founder and CEO of EfficientAide, an assistant company. He is deeply passionate about helping professionals work effectively and proficiently through a proven process of delegation. Throughout his career, Kyle has partnered with a broad range of business leaders, strategizing on how to buy back their time and eliminate worry. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover the strategies behind Effective Delegation with Kyle Walbrun, the founder and CEO of EfficientAide. Kyle shares his expertise on enabling professionals to work more effectively and proficiently through a systematic approach to delegation. Kyle and I discuss: The challenges corporate refugees face when transitioning to entrepreneurship How to overcome the hesitation of letting go and start delegating Assessing costs and the return on investment (ROI) of delegation The types of tasks business leaders should delegate first A transformative story of a client who mastered delegation How Kyle utilizes thought partners and community to excel in his business Where listeners can learn more about Kyle and EfficientAide Learn more about Kyle at http://www.EfficientAide.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Make sure to subscribe for immediate access to expert strategy tips that are concise and curated – your success story starts with one click.
Wed, July 24, 2024
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Wed, July 24, 2024
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Mon, July 22, 2024
How to Navigate Mid-Sized Business Challenges for Growth Featuring Phillip Brown
Phillip Brown is the founder of Blue Pit, Inc., a software consulting firm dedicated to improving business process automation. Throughout his career, Phillip has forged impactful partnerships with renowned organizations, including Disney, Harley Davidson, and NASA, leveraging his expertise to revolutionize their operations. His dedication lies in empowering mid-sized enterprises that grapple with challenges such as over-budget projects, organizational chaos, and high employee turnover. By implementing intuitive processes, Philip helps businesses regain control over their project management, supercharge their return on investment, and cultivate a work environment that attracts and retains top talent. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn strategies for scaling your business effectively and creating a sustainable and attractive company culture. Phillip and I discuss: The transition from employee to entrepreneur Tackling the unique challenges faced by mid-sized businesses The art of foreseeing potential issues and implementing change management Strategies for fostering effective communication within teams The importance of building a consulting business based on relationships Leveraging networking and conferences for business development The role of AI and automation in crafting efficient business processes How community and communication can propel business success Learn more about Phil at www.bluepit.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Enlist now for bespoke access to concentrated strategy wisdom from our podcast authorities – elevate your success journey with just one click!
Mon, July 15, 2024
How to Hit the Million Mark as a Video Freelancer Featuring Ron Desi
Ron Desi, a full-time freelancer on Fiverr, has just crossed the million-dollar threshold. He is a video content creator and professional spokesperson, who has also started an off-Fiverr agency offering video services to law firms aiming to attract clients through video. Previously, he worked as an IT consultant and directed a university MBA program. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, Ron Desi will share how he transformed his career from IT consulting and academia to crushing the million-dollar revenue. Ron and I discuss: Ron's journey to becoming a freelancer and the slow start on Fiverr The decision to leave his full-time job and the safety nets he created The strategies that led to his success, including finding a niche with low competition The importance of collaboration and joining communities to enhance business growth The reasons behind focusing on video services for law firms Ron's vision for his business and the advice he offers to corporate refugees Learn more about Ron's journey and connect with him on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/rondesi/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join our subscriber list for unique access to targeted, expert strategy tips from our podcast – your path to mastery is merely a click away!
Mon, July 08, 2024
How to Combine Expertise with Coaching for Success Featuring Carla Fowler
Dr. Carla Fowler is an MD, PhD, and an elite executive coach who has been a secret weapon for scores of CEOs, entrepreneurs, and other senior leaders for the last decade. Carla's unique approach combines the latest research from performance science with timeless best practices to help top performers level up and achieve their goals. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage your expertise to make significant career pivots and build a successful business model as an executive coach. Carla and I discuss: Why Carla chose a non-linear career path The realization that led her to pivot from medicine Embracing high performance outside of traditional systems Dealing with resistance and misunderstandings from others Why she decided against structured coaching programs How brutal focus helps in building a business Networking strategies for building a new career The challenge of selling as a new entrepreneur Learn more about Carla at www.thaxa.com and https://www.thaxa.com/p/smashing-the-plateau . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Secure your subscription for firsthand access to our expert-curated, concise strategic wisdom on our podcast – unlocking your success story is only one click apart!
Mon, July 01, 2024
How to Break Free from Job Titles to Personal Identity Featuring Dr. Mira Brancu
Dr. Mira Brancu is a consulting and coaching psychologist specializing in leadership identity development and in building adaptive, cohesive, high-performing teams. She is also an Associate Professor, the author of "The Millennials Guide to Workplace Politics," a "Psychology Today" columnist for the blog series "A New Look at Women’s Leadership," and the host of "The Hard Skills" internet radio show and podcast. Her award-winning social impact firm, Towerscope, focuses on empowering and elevating women in leadership within the education and innovation industries. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about the intricacies of leadership and identity, especially the challenges women face in the corporate sphere and the liberating journey of defining your career and leadership path. Dr. Mira and I discuss: The link between job titles and personal identity The freedom and creativity in starting your own business The experience of high achievers leaving the corporate world The challenge of separating personal identity from job roles Navigating leadership ambivalence among high-potential women Deciding whether to continue on the leadership track The impact of societal expectations on career decisions Strategies for tuning out unhelpful advice from others Adjusting to a sudden lack of structure after a career change Tips on joining and engaging with communities Learn more about Dr. Mira Brancu at http://www.gotowerscope.com/ and join the Tower Scope Leadership Academy for a special offer. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive entry to select, streamlined advice from our podcast specialists by subscribing now – a single click can pave your way to success!
Mon, June 24, 2024
How to Create Systems for a Stress-Free and Efficient Business Featuring Ral West
Ral West, a seasoned professional with over 40 years of experience, is a multifaceted entrepreneur respected in both the tourism industry and multifamily real estate circles. She is recognized for founding successful businesses, authoring courses, and contributing to various boards. She is also a philanthropist and dynamic speaker. Additionally, she is the founder of Ral West: Livin' The Dream and the creator of a course for entrepreneurs titled “Overcome Overwhelm: Create a Smooth Running Business with Less Stress.” In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover how to overcome the challenges of entrepreneurship and create a thriving business with less stress. Ral West, a dynamic entrepreneur with over 40 years of extensive experience, joins us to offer her wisdom on navigating the complex journey of business ownership. Ral and I discuss: Why high achievers tend to feel overwhelmed and how to counteract it The paradox of saying no to increase profitability The critical role of prioritizing and focusing for business success Strategies for matching your passions with a business model that relieves market pain How to leverage your existing network and find mentors when starting a business The importance of creating systems to streamline business operations Real-world examples of systems Ral has implemented in her businesses Ral's inspiration for helping other entrepreneurs at this stage of her life How to effectively utilize communities and mentorship when venturing into new territories Ral’s personal approach to lifelong entrepreneurship and continuous learning Learn more about Ral at https://www.ralwest.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up today for privileged entry to expertly curated, succinct strategies from our podcast gurus – your pathway to success is a mere click away!
Mon, June 17, 2024
How to Craft Long-Term Success with Sustainable Career Strategies Featuring Kathy Oneto
Kathy Oneto is an executive and life-work coach committed to helping individuals find success on their terms in both their professional and personal lives. As the founder of Sustainable Ambition and the host of the Sustainable Ambition Podcast, she guides clients to discover motivation in their careers, construct their future life and work arcs, and manage their efforts towards greater resilience and sustainability. In her diverse portfolio career, Kathy also serves as a strategy executive, aiding organizations in cutting through ambiguity and gaining the clarity needed to progress and take sustainable actions. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leave your corporate career and develop a sustainable model that brings fulfillment and success on your own terms. Kathy and I discuss: What inspired Kathy to step out of the corporate world and embrace entrepreneurship How her vision of entrepreneurship evolved over time The real meaning of sustainable ambition and how it can be a game-changer Kathy's journey of building a sustainable ambitious life Strategies for professionals who want to craft a fulfilling, long-term career The importance of community as a "force multiplier" in your career Learn more about Kathy at Website: http://SustainableAmbition.com Sustainable Ambition Podcast: http://SustainableAmbition.com/podcast or https://bit.ly/sustain-pod LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kathy-oneto/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Unlock premium insights and strategic wisdom from our top podcast experts – subscribe today for your gateway to success with just one click!
Mon, June 10, 2024
How to Offer Transformative Mentorship as an Entrepreneur Featuring Robbie Hardy
Robbie Hardy knows how to navigate the maze of the entrepreneurial journey—and she wants to help you do the same. She can guide you through the highs and lows, from your first major mistake to your first sale. She understands because she's been there. A New Englander by birth and an "entrepreneurologist" by trade, Robbie Hardy is an author, experienced investor, and entrepreneur with extensive startup and board experience. In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, Robbie Hardy, an adept entrepreneur and mentor, talks about her journey from a disenchanted corporate employee to a successful business founder and a passionate advocate for women's mentorship in business. Dive into Robbie's story to reveal how she found her true calling in the twists and turns of entrepreneurship. Robbie and I discuss: The discomfort that led Robbie to leave the corporate world Launching her own business and securing her previous employer as her first client The rollercoaster of starting and selling a software company Utilizing corporate connections to fuel her entrepreneurial ventures Robbie's mission to mentor women and help them find their voice The dynamics of effective mentorship and its transformative power Robbie's advice for corporate refugees seeking to venture into entrepreneurship Learn more about Robbie at https://www.robbiehardy.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get your exclusive subscription for direct access to our podcast gurus' streamlined, precise tips on strategy. One click is all it stands between you and mastering your success journey!
Mon, June 03, 2024
How to Optimize Digital Spaces for Remote Work Productivity Featuring Wendy Ellin
Wendy Ellin is a highly sought-after speaker, author, and consultant. Her #1 bestselling book, "Working From Home…How’s That Working For You?" continues to catch the attention of organizations that want to ensure their employees are able to work with less stress and more job satisfaction, no matter where they work. Her insights into having basic foundational organization systems are shared in her presentations with irreverence, humor, and a level of passion that motivates her audience to TAKE IMMEDIATE ACTION! Wendy has helped companies like The Home Depot, JCB, American Cancer Society, Spelman College, Cox Communications, Autotrader, PWC, and many more to ensure their people stay engaged, deliver their best work, and have a life outside of work. She believes that when your people win, everyone wins. Wendy talks about real-life challenges that all busy professionals experience, such as email overload, being on time (or not), reasonable expectations for getting things done, self-defeating behaviors, and much more. It is from Wendy's 20-plus years in the corporate arena, where she drew on her own successes by working smart, not hard, that inspired her to develop Wendy Ellin’s 3P Academy—a toolbox that fuels radical productivity, peak performance, and a renewed sense of peace of mind. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, we delve into the systems and strategies Wendy has developed to make working from home a stress-free and satisfying experience, which are essential for entrepreneurs and professionals in the current climate. Wendy and I discuss: Her transition from advertising sales to productivity consulting [00:28] What inspired her to write her best selling book [01:48] How to set up a successful work-from-home environment [06:28] Organizing physical and digital workspaces for maximum efficiency [07:12] The importance of systems in productivity (S-Y-S-T-E-M) [08:07] Wendy's life-changing car accident and its impact on her mission [04:58] Using speaking engagements to grow a business and create an impact [04:08] The role of community and sharing in overcoming organizational challenges [12:24] Wendy's approach to dealing with disorganization and stress at work [10:25] Learn more about Wendy at https://linkedin.com/in/wendyellin and www.wendyellin.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Activate your subscription now for privileged access to select, focused strategy advice from our podcast specialists – a single click is all that stands between you and your success!
Mon, May 27, 2024
How to Shape Leadership with Authentic Communication Techniques Featuring Kelly Whitaker
Kelly Whitaker (she/her) is an LA-based communication specialist, speaker, and head of Kelly Convos. Her dynamic and singular approach empowers conflict-averse leaders and individuals to confidently and compassionately conduct difficult conversations in service of personal growth and lasting problem-solving. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover the strategies for successful communication that can transform your leadership and resolve conflicts effectively. Kelly and I discuss: Her altruistic motivations and diverse career path leading up to her current role [00:01:00] The importance of communication skills across different social spheres [00:02:00] Deliberate focus on conflict resolution and the needs it addresses [00:03:31] A methodology for conducting difficult conversations and finding solutions [00:05:01] How recruitment experiences shaped her approach to communication [00:06:39] The decision to transition from employee to entrepreneur [00:08:40] The impact of effective communication on leadership and team dynamics [00:10:19] The value of interpersonal communication in a digital age [00:16:39] Networking and community building to enhance personal and professional growth [00:19:40] Learn more about Kelly at her website www.kellyconvos.com and follow her on Instagram @kellyconvos. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join our subscriber list this instant for privileged access to handpicked, concise strategic wisdom from seasoned podcast veterans – your success journey is just one click from unfolding!
Mon, May 20, 2024
How to Master Resilience in Work Transitions from Corporate Leadership to Entrepreneur Featuring Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier
Throughout her career in business management and psychology, Dr. Pelletier has spearheaded the dialogue on crucial issues of leadership resilience and work performance. Drawing on her extensive background in the corporate, insurance, governance, and public sectors, she brings an international perspective and unique expertise to leadership. She is a practicing leadership psychologist and executive coach with over 20 years of experience and holds a Ph.D. and an MBA from the University of British Columbia. Marie-Helene is a member of the Global Clinical Practice Network of the World Health Organization and a past director on the boards of the Canadian Psychological Association and the International Association of Applied Psychology. She has presented, authored, and co-authored numerous industry and academic publications and has won several academic and industry awards. In 2024, Dr. Pelletier published her award-winning book, "The Resilience Plan: A Strategic Approach to Optimizing Your Work Performance and Mental Health." In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, we explore the critical role of mental resilience when making the leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship. Dr. Marie-Helene and I discuss: What motivates career changes and transitions [00:21] Strategies for successful career transitions [00:56] The influence of mental health in shifting from corporate to business ownership [02:00] Enhancing supply to meet increased demands during transitions [03:26] The significance of relationships and community in building resilience [14:39] How to strategically plan for resilience in business [20:12] Learn more about Marie-Helene at www.theresilienceplan.com and receive the free worksheets: https://drmarie-helene.com/free-resources-sign-up/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe wherever you listen to podcasts to get direct access to our podcast experts' carefully crafted, concise strategy pointers – your blueprint for success is merely one click from activation!
Mon, May 13, 2024
How to Build a Personal Board for Financial Success Featuring Erika Wasserman
Erika Wasserman, Your Financial Therapist, is one of 70 Certified Financial Therapists who work with clients to shift their mindset and develop new beliefs around money that lead to freedom, choices, and opportunities for clients all around the world. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the transformative power of financial therapy and how it can help you navigate through life's transitions, gain control over your money, and align your finances with your values. Erika and I discuss: Her journey from corporate America to financial therapy [00:15:24] How our relationship with money affects life transitions [00:00:35] The importance of controlling and communicating about finances [00:01:13] Strategies for aligning spending with values [00:05:17] Overcoming fear during financial transitions [00:07:09] Building a personal "board of directors" [00:08:36] The role of community in financial empowerment [00:21:52] Learn more about Erika at: https://yourfinancialtherapist.com/ https://www.instagram.com/yourfinancialtherapist/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikawasserman/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Hit subscribe for immediate entry to expertly crafted strategy tips from our podcast gurus. Your journey to mastering success is merely a click away!
Mon, May 06, 2024
How to Master Client Attraction and Grow Your Freelance Brand Featuring Amy Posner
Amy Posner is a seasoned online entrepreneur and business coach who helps digital creative freelancers build breakthrough businesses. Over her 30-year career, Amy launched six successful businesses and mentored thousands of freelancers to success. She empowers freelancers to grow the business they want by teaching them the skills they need to attract the right clients – in her Complete Breakthrough Freelancer course and as co-host of the Business Badassery podcast. In her free time, you’ll find Amy adventuring around the Pacific Northwest, hiking, gardening, and making a ruckus! In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you’ll discover insider strategies to innovate in your industry and position yourself as a thought leader. Amy and I discuss: The unexpected transition from the fashion industry to entrepreneurship [01:22] The revelation that business ownership is a creative pursuit [02:07] The evolution from business operator to business mentor [03:04] The importance of business skills for digital creatives [04:00] The key concepts and skills needed for freelancers to succeed [08:04] The role of discovery calls in client acquisition [08:30] Crafting compelling proposals and scopes of work [11:13] The significance of client relations and communication [13:31] The distinction between selling to small businesses vs. enterprises [15:58] The value of peer support and community in business success [25:37] Learn more about Amy at https://amyposner.com/podcast . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Unlock premium content by subscribing: tap into expertly curated, to-the-point strategy tips from our podcast veterans – your success journey is a click from commencement!
Mon, April 29, 2024
How to Engineer a Successful Side Hustle Transition Featuring Damien Schreurs
Damien Schreurs, a former engineer with 18 years of experience working for a Fortune 500 US company with an R&D facility in Luxembourg, initiated EasyTECH as a side hustle in 2013 to explore entrepreneurship while maintaining a steady income. In September 2016, Damien left his 9-to-5 job to provide Apple training and consultancy services in Luxembourg. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Damien transitioned from his corporate career to entrepreneurship, gaining control over his time and dedicating himself to his family and work. Damien and I discuss: The trigger that led to his decision to quit his nine-to-five job [01:09] Why he started his business as a side hustle and his experience with part-time work [01:09] Adjusting his financial goals and saving strategy to facilitate his transition [04:05] The role of patience and impatience in making the move to full-time entrepreneurship [02:53] How community and networking were instrumental in shifting his business from B2C to B2B [14:10] The strategic decisions and personal reflections that guided him to focus on B2B training [16:29] His experience with mentorship and the impact of COVID-19 on his business evolution [18:04] Learn more about Amy at https://macpreneur.com , https://macpreneur.com/smashing , and https://macpreneur.com/youtube . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get your exclusive subscription today for direct entry to our podcast specialists' streamlined and curated strategy guidance – a click is all that stands between you and your success journey!
Mon, April 22, 2024
How to Leverage Layoffs into Launching Your Own Business Featuring Holly Jean
Holly Jean Jackson is a Revenue and Performance Consultant, Speaker, Podcast Host, Author, and Founder of Business Builder Throwdown. Her career encompasses a range of fields including technology, communications, organizational change, public relations, and content strategy. With over 12 years of experience, she has been instrumental in helping business leaders rejuvenate their physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Holly Jean has spearheaded a Local to Global Policy Initiative, influencing the impact of future leaders on communities. A fun fact about her: Holly Jean has performed as the first chair clarinetist in Carnegie Hall and holds a black belt in karate. Her Peak Performance Blueprint offers a comprehensive and pragmatic approach to success, recognizing that monumental business achievements require a life that is equally or more successful. Business owners engage her services to master the art and science of genuine success. Many lack direction, take insufficient action, and see lackluster results. Holly Jean steps in to help define and design a business roadmap that ensures impactful visibility, intentional profitability, and unfailing sustainability. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you'll learn about Holly Jean's journey from multiple layoffs in corporate America to becoming a successful entrepreneur and finding the balance and respect that she desired in her professional life. Holly Jean and I discuss: The pattern of layoffs and health challenges in her corporate career [00:42] Acknowledging a need for appreciation and a push towards entrepreneurship [01:00] The dehumanization of layoffs in large companies [01:44] Transitioning to a consultancy role and how it differs from employment [05:03] Establishing a more respectful and balanced consultant-client relationship [06:14] Holly Jean's process of finding her consulting niche [08:15] The impact of COVID on her business strategy [10:46] How to strategically pivot your business for growth [11:37] The importance of niching down your target market [12:00] Leveraging personal achievements and passions to build your business [13:52] The significance of internal validation over external comparison [14:12] Tactical advice for transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship [16:32] The critical role of community and support in building a successful business [21:07] Learn more about Holly Jean at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hollyjjackson/ https://www.facebook.com/hollyjeanjackson https://www.instagram.com/coachhollyjeanjackson/ <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC3ElvJLGqpJ2ThA9utJ
Mon, April 15, 2024
How to Foster a Coaching Career from Corporate Communications Roots Featuring Alan Heymann
Alan Heymann excels at coaching fellow introverts, helping them discover their superpowers in an extroverted world. He has coached leaders from 32 countries across four continents. His diverse clientele includes individuals from Fortune 50 corporations, nonprofit organizations, public utilities, and various levels of government—federal, county, and municipal. Alan is the author of "Don't Just Have the Soup: 52 Analogies for Leadership, Coaching, and Life." His extensive experience spans over two decades in public, government, and nonprofit communications, where he has led teams of sizes ranging from two to over 100 people. Motivated by his own career transformation, which was facilitated by an executive coach, Alan established Peaceful Direction in April 2019. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about Alan's journey from a communications expert to a respected executive coach and successful business owner. Alan and I discuss: His career transformation inspired by executive coaching [00:44] Navigating complexities in his most challenging role [02:29] The unforeseen benefits of coaching for career development [03:00] Serving a diverse range of clients across the economy [03:40] Adapting coaching methodologies to suit client needs [04:28] Transitioning from corporate employment to entrepreneurship [05:39] The practicalities and psychology of running your own business [07:00] The importance of cash flow and financial management [09:16] Alan's approach to growing his business and client base [10:06] Balancing personal preferences with market demand [11:01] The business development aspect of coaching [13:31] Building a coaching business and the challenges faced [14:26] Utilizing community and networks for business growth [23:22] Learn more about Alan at https://www.peacefuldirection.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now for privileged entry to select, bite-sized tactical guidance from our podcast authorities – a quick click can lead you straight to the pinnacle of success!
Mon, April 08, 2024
How to Integrate Proprietary Data Methods for DEI Excellence Featuring Diana File
Diana File founded DF Analytics to instill rigor and accountability in DEI efforts worldwide. As a research and organizational psychologist, she has devoted 15 years to refining her proprietary data science methodologies, driving impactful results for Fortune 500 corporations, startups, government agencies, nonprofit institutions, and small businesses globally. Diana leverages data science to enable companies to cultivate highly diverse and inclusive teams that excel in productivity, collaboration, and profitability. Her proprietary analytical methods reveal the underlying neuroscientific factors that determine success or failure. She then translates these assessments into actionable strategies, leading cross-functional implementation throughout the organization. This comprehensive approach ensures companies remain at the forefront of the evolving generational and cultural landscapes affecting both employees and customers. As a former consultant for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Diana has redefined decision-making processes within complex hierarchies and has led pioneering global research on fostering the resolution of intractable conflicts. Her breadth of expertise encompasses workforce analytics, team development, project management, organizational effectiveness, conflict resolution, and research on best practices. Diana is a sought-after workshop leader and keynote speaker, contributing to prestigious institutions such as Cornell University's School of Industrial and Labor Relations, Columbia University School of Professional Studies, Carnegie Endowment for International Peace, National Libraries of Medicine, HR Leadership Forum, and various industry associations. She earned her B.A. in Psychology, graduating cum laude from Yale University, and holds an M.A. in Psychology from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. Diana is proficient in English, Hebrew, and Russian. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn from Diana File how to bring accountability to DEI efforts using data science.** Diana and I discuss: Her journey from a child immigrant facing intolerance to a DEI leader [00:47] How Diana's personal mission shaped her career path [01:31] The importance of addressing systemic inequities through organizational psychology [01:59] Her groundbreaking research in trauma recovery and conflict resolution [02:19] The birth of DF Analytics and its mission [03:37] The pivotal year of 2020 for DEI and how that shaped her business [05:18] Why certain industries like healthcare, technology, and financial services focus on DEI [07:14] How Diana uses her coaching approach to build business relationships [08:50] Overcoming the fear of rejection in business development [12:32] The business model behind DF Analytics and working with a diversified team of consultants [16:37] Learn more about Diana at <a
Mon, April 01, 2024
How to Craft Empathy-Driven Stories in Tech Marketing Featuring Jessica Mehring
Jessica Mehring is a strategic consultant for technology companies, a published author, and holds an M.A. in Communication. Through her graduate academic work, she has closely examined the impact of generative AI on strategic communication and is exploring how storytelling fosters empathy and helps us connect in a modern context. When she's not working to infuse tech marketing with more humanity, she can be found researching the intersections of art and science, creativity and data, and communication and innovation. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leverage storytelling to make your marketing resonate with your audience and build a successful consulting business that can change the way technology is perceived and utilized. Jessica and I discuss: How Jessica's passion for writing and storytelling shaped her career [00:01:59] The pivotal moment that led her to entrepreneurship [00:04:11] Her approach to creating high-performing content for tech companies [00:08:18] The role of storytelling in establishing customer connection [00:11:14] Jessica's advice for corporate refugees on using storytelling in their businesses [00:13:56] The significance of community in Jessica's entrepreneurial success [00:22:18] Learn more about Jessica at https://www.horizonpeakconsulting.com/jessica/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up today for privileged entry to our expertly curated and succinct strategic advice from podcast professionals – your journey to success is a mere click away!
Mon, March 25, 2024
How to Transition from Executive to Entrepreneurial CEO Featuring Gina Cotner
Gina Cotner is the CEO of Athena Executive Services, a firm that pairs virtual executive assistants across the United States with swamped and successful entrepreneurs and executives. Her team of high-caliber executive assistants works part-time from home, taking many tasks and projects off the plates of successful people, leaving them free to spend their time where they are most needed. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transition from a secure corporate job to founding and scaling a company that aligns with your personal values and lifestyle. Gina and I discuss: Her initial decision to leave IBM and her corporate life behind [00:00:38] The journey from planning to open a martini lounge to becoming an entrepreneur [00:02:59] How Gina faced and overcame financial fears during a divorce [00:05:10] The inception of Athena Executive Services and its growth [00:07:54] Strategies for dealing with disappointment and the importance of keeping it simple [00:15:19] Building a business that thrived during the pandemic [00:11:00] The benefits of community and networking in business development [00:19:08] Learn more about Gina with Athena Executive Services on social media to stay updated on latest insights and offerings: Facebook: [ https://www.facebook.com/AthenaVirtualAssistants ] Instagram: [ https://www.instagram.com/athena_executive_services ] YouTube: [ https://www.youtube.com/@athenaexecutiveservices5248 ] LinkedIn: [ https://www.linkedin.com/company/athena-executive ] Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get exclusive access to select, streamlined strategy guidance from our podcast professionals by subscribing now – a single click is all that stands between you and your successful future!
Mon, March 18, 2024
How to Innovate with Data Science for Business Success Featuring Tyler Martin
Introducing Tyler Martin: a Business Coach and CPA with a talent for growing businesses. He escalated a staffing firm to $25 million a year and expanded a CPA firm to 200 clients in just five years. Tyler's unique strength lies in his hands-on business experience — he's not just a coach. He has personally built and sold successful companies. Specializing in service businesses with revenues of $1-15 million, Tyler provides practical, actionable guidance to help them grow. He is the ideal mentor for business owners eager to develop their enterprise. Tyler Martin is a seasoned CPA and business coach with a knack for helping businesses flourish. With his firsthand experience in growing a staffing firm to $25 million and building a CPA firm from scratch to 200 clients in just five years, Tyler understands the ins and outs of business growth. Moreover, having sold successful companies of his own, Tyler brings a wealth of knowledge and practical advice to his role as a mentor to service businesses with revenues between one to $15 million. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to navigate the waters of business growth and deal with the challenges of being a corporate refugee starting from scratch. Tyler and I discuss: His transition from CPA to entrepreneurship and why he took the leap [00:01:13] Building his own CPA firm and acquiring 200 clients in five years [00:01:33] Strategies for lead generation and client selection [00:03:06] The significant pivot from business coaching to providing CFO services [00:09:23] Overcoming the fear of investing money into seemingly sinking ships [00:15:25] The balance between proactive business modeling and reacting to emergent opportunities [00:07:07] Learn more about Tyler at www.thinktyler.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Secure your subscription today for privileged access to our podcast specialists' distilled strategy insights – a single click is all it takes to navigate the path to success!
Mon, March 11, 2024
How to Leverage Writing into Business Success Beyond Law Featuring Erica Holthausen
Erica Holthausen is the founder of Catchline Communications, where she provides consultants with essential tools to develop and share a body of work that enhances their authority, boosts their visibility, and creates new opportunities. Leveraging her background as a freelance writer and editor, Erica assists her clients in selecting topics, pitching ideas, composing articles, and securing publication in prominent industry trade journals and business magazines, such as Harvard Business Review, Inc., and Entrepreneur. In this episode, Erica and I discuss: Her unexpected career transition from law to communications [00:00:54] The role of mentorship in her professional development [00:06:18] Erica's advice on asking questions and being open to help [00:07:47] Overcoming doubt and the power of trusting oneself [00:10:03] The evolution of her business, Catch Line Communications [00:15:41] How she pivoted her services to meet the consultants' needs [00:15:58] The creation of her group program and the upcoming community [00:17:34] The importance of community for entrepreneurs [00:20:11] One actionable step for corporate refugees moving towards entrepreneurship [00:22:59] Learn more about Erica at Catchline Communications at https://linktr.ee/catchline and connect with her on LinkedIn. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Enlist now for privileged access to select, succinct guidance from our podcast professionals – a single click is all that stands between you and your successful journey!
Mon, March 04, 2024
How to Transform Selling into an Authentic Success Featuring Nikki Rausch
As the CEO of Sales Maven, Nikki Rausch possesses a unique ability to transform the often misunderstood process of "selling." With over 25 years of experience in selling, Nikki is now hired by entrepreneurs and small business owners who seek her expertise to learn how to sell successfully and authentically. Nikki is the author of three books, all of which are available on Amazon. She also hosts the podcast Sales Maven, which can be found on your favorite podcast platform. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you'll discover the nuances of NLP in sales and learn how to use these techniques to boost your business. Nikki and I discuss: The pivotal moment that led her into entrepreneurship [00:02:52] How NLP transformed her approach to sales and communication [00:11:42] The importance of treating your business as a separate entity for sales success [00:10:13] Turning the discomfort of change into an opportunity for growth [00:21:50] The strategies that helped her pivot from a lavish lifestyle to a savvy entrepreneur [00:07:02] Nikki's continued investment in personal and professional development [00:19:00] Learn more about Nikki at: https://yoursalesmaven.com https://www.facebook.com/yoursalesmaven/ https://www.instagram.com/your_sales_maven/ https://yoursalesmaven.com/podcast https://yoursalesmaven.com/smashing Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Subscribe instantly to receive exclusive, well-chosen advice that's brief and effective from our podcast mavens – you're only one click from conquering your success journey!
Mon, February 26, 2024
How to Launch a Successful Design Agency After a Corporate Career Featuring Andre De La Cruz
Andre de la Cruz is a UX and Product Design professional with 15 years of experience. After losing his job last July, Andre co-founded an agency called Rally, which specializes in Brand, UX, and Product. He established the agency with two seasoned professionals in Brand and Product, along with a team of senior talent. Rally offers startups flexible monthly access to their team of senior designers and product managers through a subscription service. Prior to founding Rally, Andre spent the last five years at early and growth-stage startups, building and leading design teams, and collaborating with product and executive leadership to develop new products from inception to launch (0→1) and to evolve version one (v1) products into a more mature, polished, and professional state. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, Andre shares insights on making the bold move from a stable full-time job to creating and managing a successful design agency. Andre and I discuss: His career progression and the decision to start an agency [00:01:00] The experience of leading design teams at startups [00:02:00] The journey of founding Rally with his partners [00:04:00] Shaping and adapting agency business models for market demand [00:10:00] Diversifying into the software industry [00:12:00] The pivotal role of community and networking in entrepreneurship [00:17:00] Tips for aspiring entrepreneurs considering their own venture [00:21:00] Learn more about Andre at https://www.joinrally.co . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Sign up today and unlock exclusive, streamlined strategies from our seasoned podcast professionals – success is just a click from your grasp!
Mon, February 19, 2024
How to Build a Thriving Business with Ethical AI and Community Featuring Jessica Spencer
After nearly two decades in the corporate world, Jessica founded the educational media company Penguin Connective, which seeks to create greater equality and opportunity in challenging areas such as future readiness, foster-to-adopt, and transitioning to adulthood. She is the creator of the AI Explorers Society and a ChatGPT for Teachers course that currently serves over 1,800 educators globally. Jessica resides near Raleigh, North Carolina with her husband and their five children. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how continuous learning and strategic diversification can create a resilient business model. Jessica and I discuss: Her transition from corporate administrative roles to entrepreneurship [00:50] The advantages and challenges of acquiring education while working full-time [01:12] The evolution of her career through multiple industries [01:34] How a diagnosis with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome influenced her life choices [05:15] The role of diversification in achieving financial security [06:46] The importance of ethical AI and its application in education [14:09] The value of community and collaboration in a successful business [17:29] Introducing the AI Explorer Society and its goals [16:12] Learn more about Jessica at: https://www.aiexplorers.io Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get immediate access to carefully selected, succinct advice from our podcast specialists by subscribing today. Your journey to success begins with just one click!
Mon, February 12, 2024
How to Embrace AI and Analytics for Entrepreneurial Success Featuring Genevieve Hayes
Dr. Genevieve Hayes is the Director of Genevieve Hayes Consulting, which assists organizations in understanding emerging technologies, such as AI and analytics, and how to use these technologies to create business value. She also lectures on data science at the University of Melbourne and hosts the podcast "Value-Driven Data Science." In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn from Genevieve's bold transition from a secure corporate career to the dynamic world of entrepreneurship in the midst of a global pandemic. This episode is a trove of insights for anyone considering taking control of their professional path. Genevieve and I discuss: Her journey from being an actuary to becoming an entrepreneur [02:00] The moment Genevieve decided to leave the corporate world [06:00] Insights into the risks and control associated with owning a business [08:00] The importance of freedom and the ability to challenge oneself [10:00] Genevieve's innovative approach to data science in business [12:00] Her current projects and goals for the future [14:00] The balancing act between client work and business growth [16:00] The power of community and networking in business success [18:00] Learn more about Genevieve at www.genevievehayes.com , and connect with her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gkhayes/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Get immediate access to handpicked, actionable strategies from our podcast gurus by subscribing – your journey to triumph starts with a simple click!
Mon, February 05, 2024
Learn How To Use Your Experiences To Build A Successful Business And Become Influential Featuring Michael Levin
New York Times bestselling author and ghostwriter Michael Levin is a prolific ghostwriter, having written, edited, published, or consulted on more than 1,000 books. Levin's own books have been published by Simon & Schuster, Random House, Penguin, and a variety of other top publishers. He has written for The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, HuffPost, LA Times, Boston Globe, and many other top outlets. His ghostwriting clients include Boeing and Ford CEO Alan Mulally, Baseball Hall of Famer Dave Winfield, motivational speaker Zig Ziglar (he edited Zig's last book), NFL legend Pat Summerall, and countless other leaders in business, sports, broadcasting, real estate, finance, insurance, and many other fields. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to harness your skills and experiences to build a successful business and become an influential voice in your field. Michael and I discuss: Michael's transition from corporate law to entrepreneurship [00:01:40] The realities of starting a business and the importance of sales [00:07:48] Overcoming the challenges of entrepreneurship and self-promotion [00:09:10] How to embrace and manage the inevitable changes and pivots [00:13:41] Strategies for networking and finding like-minded individuals [00:20:08] The role of content creation in establishing thought leadership [00:27:10] Learn more about Michael at www.michaellevinwrites.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community Join now for privileged access to select guidance, resources and colleagues – a single click stands between you and progress!
Mon, January 29, 2024
How to Convert Software Development Skills into Successful Business Models Featuring Troy Larson
Troy has over 40 years of software development and technical management experience, including five years at Amazon as a Solutions Architect. In 2022, Troy founded The Unique VA Experience, a Filipino-based coaching company that has trained nearly 300 VAs, providing opportunities for Filipinos who are looking to change careers and for stay-at-home parents looking to enter the workforce. In 2023, Troy launched The Developer's CEO Newsletter, building on his 40 years of experience, focused on the unique challenges faced by software developers who are running a small business or looking to start their own business. In today’s episode, you will discover the transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship, the founding of The Unique VA Experience, and his 2023 launch of The Developer CEO Newsletter. Troy and I discuss: The journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship [00:01:05] The motivation behind The Unique VA Experience [00:02:10] The significance of the "Unique" aspect in his business [00:03:40] Offering a distinct, hands-on program for VAs [00:04:35] How The Unique VA Experience evolved against expectations [00:06:05] Utilizing community for entrepreneurial success [00:08:00] The unexpected wisdom gained from community interactions [00:09:40] The role of OKRs in fostering accountability within communities [00:11:50] The simple yet effective implementation of OKRs [00:18:15] Navigating the trials and learning from failures in business [00:20:25] For those seeking to delve deeper into the world of virtual assistance or to tap into Troy's rich repository of knowledge, visit www.troylarson.com . Troy also offers resources on hiring a VA and has made his developer-centric newsletter available for those intrigued by the intersection of software development and business leadership. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 22, 2024
How to Navigate From Corporate to Coaching Through Life's Adversity Featuring Rebecca Babcock
Rebecca Babcock, Founder of Rebecca Babcock Coaching and The Babcock Method™, has conquered a great deal! As a chronic illness warrior, a nine-year sobriety champion, a resilient divorcee, and a highly effective corporate leader, she has navigated both triumphs and setbacks throughout her over 20 years of corporate experience. Now, she has chosen to embrace her true calling: empowering others to discover their purpose and passion, regardless of life's unpredictable twists and turns. In today's compelling episode of Smashing the Plateau, Rebecca reveals the raw and transformative journey that led her from a high-flying career in corporate America to a profound coaching practice. After navigating the rollercoaster of life's 'lifey' moments, Rebecca now empowers others to steer their own ship, even through the roughest seas of adversity. Rebecca and I discuss: Her transition from corporate leadership to life coaching [00:00:20] Embracing life's unpredictability while pursuing passion and purpose [00:01:07] The paradox of seeming success and the underlying feeling of 'meh' [00:04:30] The fallacy of the elusive 'playbook' of life and the freedom in admitting imperfections [00:05:30] Her holistic approach to increasing life satisfaction and finding joy in authenticity [00:11:00] Rebecca's poignant insights and her own experiences illustrate that sometimes the most inspiring stories come from the most unexpected places. Learn more about Rebecca and her journey at https://calendly.com/rbc-coaching/rebecca-babcock-coaching-clarity-call-whatsapp Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 15, 2024
How to Embrace Femininity and Triumph Over Burnout Featuring April Roberts
April Roberts assists Gen X women in attaining greater abundance, love, spirituality, and alignment by embracing their femininity. As a high-achieving former attorney and financial advisor with degrees from Vanderbilt and Notre Dame, April comprehends the societal pressures that frequently result in burnout among women. She is the host of the Vixen Voice podcast, where she shares the narratives of Gen X women who have cast aside the conventional definition of success to follow their genuine passions. In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, we dive into April's transformation from a high-powered legal professional to a devoted entrepreneur and mentor for women forging new paths in life. April and I discuss: April's pivot from law to entrepreneurship and her insights on societal expectations for women [00:50] The intellectual fulfillment and soul-level dissatisfaction April experienced in her former roles [01:15] Identifying the call to engage in work that truly resonates with the spirit [04:25] April's foray into financial advising and the unique entrepreneurial spirit inherited from her family [06:40] Responding to intuitive nudges and the third-time charm that redefined April's career direction [09:10] Launching Vixen Gathering amidst the pandemic and the journey to double its recurring revenue [10:20] The five pillars of Vixen Gathering and the specific challenges Gen X women entrepreneurs face, especially around money mindset [15:10] The enriching community experience in group settings that April facilitates, fostering growth and accountability [20:40] April Roberts extends her impact through her podcast, the Vixen Voice, a platform where she highlights stories of Gen X women who have broken free from the traditional mold to follow their heartfelt desires. To learn more about April's work and to connect with her, access the Vixen Core Values Worksheet Download at: https://www.vixengathering.com/core-values-worksheet . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 08, 2024
How To Transform Career Lows Into Entrepreneurial Success Featuring Suzy Rosenstein
Suzy Rosenstein is a master certified life coach and host of the popular podcast for midlife women, Women in the Middle®. Utilizing her upbeat approach to the highs and lows of aging and navigating life over 50, Suzy helps you gain clarity on what you truly desire, reigniting your excitement for life. In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will discover how Suzy turned a career-low into a triumphant journey into entrepreneurship, inspiring others along the way. Suzy and I discuss: How being laid off became a catalyst for change [00:02:50] The role of creativity in Suzy's entrepreneurial journey [00:03:45] Confronting fears and societal expectations in midlife [00:09:00] Embracing technology and lifelong learning [00:12:40] Assisting women in midlife to avoid regrets and find clarity [00:15:14] The benefits of group coaching and community support [00:21:16] Understanding the 'why' behind your life's direction [00:26:07] Learn more about Suzy on her website at www.suzyrosenstein.com and get the free Get Unstuck Midlife Podcast Bundle at www.freepodcastbundle.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 01, 2024
How Conscious Choices, Inner Work, And Community Forge New Paths In Life's Latter Half Featuring Paul Ward And Sandy Demarest
Dr. Paul Ward is a leadership and life coach, often referred to as the Consciousness Whisperer. He is the President of 2Young2Retire, LLC, a company that specializes in coaching, consulting, and training. Paul is the author of "The Inner Journey to Conscious Leadership" and the coauthor of "Midlife, New Life," which is set to be published in January. An adjunct professor at the University of Phoenix online, Paul has dedicated more than thirty years to consulting for organizations across Europe and the Americas. He splits his time between West Palm Beach, Florida, and Portsmouth, England. Paul Ward and Sandy Demarest are reshaping the concept of midlife through their co-authored book, Midlife New Life, and their professional coaching efforts. They bring a wealth of experience to those navigating life's transitions, offering strategies to embrace change with purpose and intention. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, we'll explore the conscious choices that can redefine one's journey during the second half of life and the importance of inner work and community in forging a new path. Paul, Sandy, and I discuss: The inspiration behind Midlife New Life and the story of its creation [00:04:00] Sandy's journey from career development to co-author [00:05:50] The significance of midlife as a stage, not an age, and its broad appeal [00:08:05] Addressing unexpected challenges and the importance of planning [00:09:10] The concept of working for fulfillment versus working for a living [00:10:36] Strategies for corporate refugees turning to entrepreneurship [00:12:40] The role of mindset and support in navigating career transitions [00:14:25] Consciously exploring possibilities before a crisis strikes [00:16:00] Leveraging strengths for personal and professional growth [00:24:45] Learn more about Paul and Sandy and their work: Midlife New Life Book: midlifenewlife.net Paul Ward's Contact: http://2young2retire.com/ and https://drpaulward.com/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, December 25, 2023
How To Stand Out And Draw The Right Crowd With Digital Marketing Featuring Tina Cheesley
Tina Cheesley runs a marketing agency that specializes in messaging for websites plus email marketing to help clients stand out from the crowd and attract the right people. In this episode, discover the key steps and strategies that Tina has used to carve out a niche for her business and to guide others on the path to marketing success. Tina and I discuss: Her professional journey from the print industry to online marketing and the dynamics of working with her husband [00:52] The importance of breaking down the transition from corporate to consulting into manageable steps [06:10] Starting off with the right digital footprint, such as a landing page, and the role of networking in business development [10:14] How to choose a consulting specialization that aligns with your passions and the impact you want to make [14:10] The entrepreneurial mindset, dealing with imposter syndrome, and the significance of goal setting [16:34] The blend of flexibility and structure in entrepreneurship, and how it shapes personal and professional life [18:05] The benefits of being part of a community and engaging in mastermind groups [19:47] For more insights into effective digital marketing and to get a hold of a useful toolkit for kick-starting your marketing journey, visit Tina's website at https://flow-online.co.uk/get-more-leads-toolkit/ . Tina also welcomes strategy calls for those who have attempted to apply her methods and are looking for further assistance. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, December 18, 2023
Learn To Manage Consulting Finances For Future Success Confidently Featuring Erica Goode
Erica Goode has been a Certified Public Accountant for 15 years. She runs a virtual accounting firm that provides coaches and consultants with bookkeeping, accounting, and CFO services, and she also hosts the Coaches, Consultants, and Money podcast. She’s a former Director of Finance at a Fortune 50 company and began her career as an auditor at a Big Four public accounting firm. Erica is also a mother of two and the wife of a fellow CPA. She lives with her family in the mountains of Idaho. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, Erica will discuss the unique financial challenges that come with running a consulting or coaching business and how to navigate them confidently for a successful financial future. Erica and I discuss: The common fears and misunderstandings about small business finance [00:00:00] Leaving a corporate career for entrepreneurship [00:03:30] Starting a business from scratch [00:04:10] The journey to specializing in coaching and consulting [00:06:35] The benefits of having a niche [00:12:59] Financial challenges and cash flow management in consulting [00:16:35] Retirement savings and benefits for entrepreneurs [00:19:55] The importance of community for entrepreneurs [00:22:15] Continuous learning in finance [00:24:35] Learn more about Erica at https://www.ericagoode.com , https://www.ericagoode.com/newsletter-signup , and listen to her insights on the Coaches, Consultants, and Money podcast. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, December 11, 2023
Learn How To Review Quarterly Growth, Affirm Values, And Plan Ahead Featuring John Neral
John Neral is a certified professional coach who assists mid-career professionals who feel stuck, undervalued, and underutilized to show up and find a job they love or to love the job they have. John is the host of "The Mid-Career GPS Podcast" and the author of "SHOW UP – Six Strategies to Lead a More Energetic and Impactful Career" and "Your Mid-Career GPS – Four Steps to Figuring Out What's Next." He resides just outside of Washington, D.C., with his spouse and their rescue cat, "Amy Farrah Meowler." In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to pause at the end of each quarter and assess your business progress, reaffirming foundational values, and deciding your next steps for growth. John and I discuss: The significance of pausing and reviewing business progress [00:00:00] The shift in mid-career professionals' attitudes since the pandemic [00:04:00] How to find what you want in your next job or career move [00:09:00] The importance of defining fit, function, finance, and future in your career [00:07:00] How to handle job offers that don't fully meet your criteria [00:16:00] Why you should consider self-employment and building your personal board of directors [00:19:00] John's entrepreneurial journey and the introduction of digital products [00:22:00] The power of being a community member and leader [00:25:00] Learn more about John at www.johnneral.com and connect with him on LinkedIn. Listen to the Mid Career GPS podcast for more insights. Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, December 04, 2023
How To Generate Revenue With Online Marketing Featuring Ahsan Karim
Ahsan Karim is a business strategist and founder of Light Vision Group. His company helps businesses generate more revenue with online marketing. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, Ahsan shares his insightful journey from the corporate world to entrepreneurship. With a focus on helping businesses amplify their online presence, Ahsan highlights the importance of community, coaching, and strategic online marketing for entrepreneurs. Ahsan and I discuss: Making the pivot from it to business coaching [00:02:52] The first entrepreneurial steps and valuing exchanges [00:04:33] Building light vision group and mastering digital marketing [00:08:08] Identifying the ideal client for online success [00:09:40] Expanding reach: local success stories to global visions [00:12:28] Unique global insights through personal journey and connections [00:13:26] Creating collaborative and customized coaching curriculums [00:16:15] The power of community in entrepreneurship [00:18:56] Upcoming projects to help entrepreneurs enhance their online presence [00:21:10] Learn more about Ahsan at https://lightvisiongroup.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, November 27, 2023
How To Build Your Own Strategy For Launching And Scaling Exponential Business Growth Featuring Geoffrey Kent
Geoffrey Kent is an esteemed educator, coach, entrepreneur, and the brain behind Think Big with Geoffrey Kent. With an impressive entrepreneurial trajectory spanning over half a century, Geoffrey has crafted a robust methodology that empowers entrepreneurs to devise their personalized strategies to initiate, responsibly escalate, and successfully exit their businesses. Geoffrey, a Wharton School of Business MBA holder with a focus on Entrepreneurial Management, has also shared his expertise at Lincoln University and carried out more than 20 entrepreneurial initiatives in the past five decades. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Geoffrey Kent built his entrepreneurial university online and share his insights on creating generational wealth. Geoffrey and David discuss: Geoffrey's journey to entrepreneurship and the creation of his course [00:17:55] The importance of narrating your course and turning it into a book [00:23:45] The platform Geoffrey made to teach entrepreneurs online [00:23:55] Geoffrey's focus on Alignable as a platform for teaching [00:24:10] The creation of Entrepreneur University on Alignable [00:24:20] The unconventional approach of Entrepreneur University on Alignable [00:24:45] How to get more information about Geoffrey's work [00:25:00] Geoffrey's presence on various platforms for disseminating daily content [00:25:25] Learn more about Geoffrey at www.thinkbigwithgeoffreykent.com , and search "Think Big with Geoffrey Kent" on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, Quora, Alignable, and YouTube. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, November 20, 2023
How To Integrate Ai With Human Connection For Effective Communication Featuring Jürgen Strauss
Dr. Jürgen Strauss, the founder of Innovabiz, is globally celebrated as a human-centered podcasting coach. He guides high achievers in leveraging podcasting for business growth. Having produced over 590 InnovaBuzz Podcast episodes, his expertise resides at the intersection of technology, human behavior, and marketing. He utilizes his years of experience in both the corporate and small business sectors to cultivate deep connections, thus broadening the professional networks of high-impact individuals. He expertly integrates generative AI, such as ChatGPT, with human connection to enhance effective communication. Beyond his professional pursuits, he is a passionate photographer, speaker, and cyclist. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to pivot according to your audience's needs, the significance of asking the right questions, and how to utilize AI tools for more human-like interactions. Jürgen and I discuss: The importance of audience understanding and quick adaptation [00:13:50] How Jurgen pivoted his business approach [00:14:00] Jurgen's methods of understanding the market [00:14:30] The art of asking meaningful questions [00:14:40] The concept of assistance versus help [00:15:00] How to identify gaps and contribute effectively [00:15:30] Jurgen's dream for Flywheel Nation [00:19:10] The benefits of being in a community [00:20:00] Jurgen's definition of community [00:21:40] The application of ChatGPT in business [00:22:10] How to leverage AI tools for human connection [00:23:35] Learn more about Jurgen at www.innovabiz.co and more about his community at www.innovabiz.co/flywheel . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, November 13, 2023
How To Make Work More Productive, Valuable, Meaningful, And Impactful Featuring Thomas Bertels
Thomas Bertels is a management consultant and business transformation expert. He has more than 25 years’ experience helping companies across a range of industries, from start-ups to Fortune 5, transform how work gets done. Thinkers360 has recognized Thomas as a Top 50 Thought Leader on the Future of Work and Design Thinking. He has written several books and numerous articles on work design, process improvement, business transformation, and organizational learning. His latest book is ‘Fixing Work: Designing Jobs Employees Love’ ( Greenleaf Book Group). He is also the host of the Work Matters podcast, where he explores in conversations with thought leaders and executives what leaders can do to fix work. In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. Thomas and I discuss: Thomas's journey in consulting and his transformation towards innovative work design [00:17] How the evolution of publishing affected his process of authoring "Fixing Work" [02:25] The prevalent challenges of being a thought leader in today's ever-evolving landscape [06:01] A deep-dive into the emerging models of consulting, focusing on productization and a client-focused approach [09:31] The principles and practical components of his work design framework [12:02] The significance and role of community in consulting [18:10] Learn more about Thomas Bertels at: Homepage www.purpose.works Book Site www.fixing-work.com Newsletter purposeworks.substack.com Diagnostic www.mymojo.works Podcast https://www.youtube.com/@WorkMatterspodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomasbertels/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/purpose-works-consulting/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, November 06, 2023
How To Make Critical Decisions and Understand The Importance Of Inner Resourcefulness Featuring Namita Purohit
Namita Purohit left a promising career at Microsoft and embarked on her journey as an entrepreneur, fueled by her deep-rooted belief in Eastern Wisdom. She champions the idea of cultivating inner resourcefulness and emphasizes the importance of community in both personal and professional development. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to make critical decisions, understand the importance of inner resourcefulness, and the crucial role communities play in our lives. Namita and I discuss: Namita's transition from Microsoft to entrepreneurship [00:12:29] The significance of decision-making and freedom [00:14:53] The concept of inner resourcefulness [00:20:35] Valuing personal pleasure and priorities over societal pressure [00:19:30] The role of communities in our lives [00:26:40] Namita's coaching brand EASE, focusing on emotional awareness, spirituality, and excellence [00:27:30] Learn more about Namita at https://www.namitapurohit.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, October 30, 2023
The Importance of Structure and Accountability in Establishing And Growing Your Own Business Featuring Sara Murray
Sara Murray is an advisor, consultant, and speaker working with leaders and sales teams to unlock the untapped potential in their prospecting and business development efforts. With a focus on construction, real estate, hospitality, design, and technology industries, Sara empowers professionals to enhance their communication skills, approach prospecting creatively, and effectively address business needs rather than simply push products. As the host of the popular podcast "Prospecting on Purpose," Sara provides a valuable platform for discussions on prospecting, sales, business strategies, and mindset, leaving listeners with tangible takeaways and increased confidence. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you'll learn about the importance of structure and accountability in establishing and growing your own business. Sara offers practical advice and tangible methods for achieving your sales goals and creating a successful business model. Sara and I discuss: The transition from corporate life to entrepreneurship [02:04] The process of establishing structure in your business [04:15] Decision-making in terms of which business model to pursue [07:51] The role of workshops in growing a business [10:37] Practical ways of developing business sales [14:12] The benefits of using a podcast as a resource [16:19] Navigating challenges in entrepreneurship [20:41] Strategies for personal and business growth [23:14] Resource availability and how to get in touch with Sara [25:55] Learn more about Sara at connect.saramurray.com and follow her on LinkedIn. You can also access her podcast, Prospecting on Purpose, on YouTube and all significant platforms where podcasts are available. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, October 23, 2023
How To Balance Life And Work While Increasing Productivity And Achieving Business Success Featuring Marcey Rader
Marcey Rader believes health powers productivity. As the founder of RaderCo, she helps corporate refugees banish burnout through practical tools and sustainable habits. Marcey is a multi-certified health and productivity expert, a digital wellness practitioner, three-time author, has spoken on five continents, and is part of the 1% of speakers worldwide with the distinguished Certified Speaking Professional® designation. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, Marcey shares her wealth of knowledge on how to bring balance into your life and work while skyrocketing your productivity and achieving success in your business. Marcey and I discuss: How Marcey transitioned from being the primary earner in her family to becoming an entrepreneur [02:15] The importance of a coach and a mastermind group in her business journey [04:22] Dealing with the corporate mindset and the challenges it presents when starting your own business [09:02] Techniques for placing value on your services [14:11] Marcey's insights on the importance of a carefully curated group in leadership roles [19:30] Learn more about Marcey www.helloraderco.com and www.marceyrader.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, October 16, 2023
Learn About Marketing And Sales Techniques For Deliverable Results Featuring Lois Creamer
Lois Creamer works with speakers, consultants, and experts who want to book more business, make more money and fully monetize their message. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn about marketing and sales techniques for deliverable results, the significance of leveraging relationships and databases for revenue, the advantages of self-publication, and the joy of leading a successful membership community. Lois and I discuss: Lois's journey in developing her sales skills and the importance of selling one's unique expertise [02:30] The uniqueness of each person's expertise delivery and how to leverage others' expertise [06:10] The value of databases as a strategic business asset and why it's essential to take it seriously [09:17] Lois's self-publication journey and reasons for choosing self-publication over traditional publishing [13:21] The joy, value, and structure of Lois's membership community [26:05] Learn more about Lois Creamer at bookmorebusiness.com. Sign up for her blog and receive a free eBook on how to sell a speech. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, October 09, 2023
How To Build A Successful Online Business, Find The Right Niche, And Grow Your Digital Entrepreneurship Journey With Smart Actionable Steps Featuring Scott Brenner
Scott Brenner is a seasoned digital entrepreneur and the strategic brain behind Online Business From Scratch, a business that guides aspiring entrepreneurs to launch successful online businesses. Brenner, who has decades of online business and technical experience, firmly believes in imparting actionable strategies for the fruition of those ideas. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to build a successful online business, find the right niche, and grow your digital entrepreneurship journey with smart actionable steps. Scott and David discuss: What led Scott Brenner to become an entrepreneur [00:02:48] How Scott found his niche in online business coaching [00:06:32] The relevance of building a profitable business model [00:08:11] Why choosing the right audience is crucial in entrepreneurship [00:09:21] The significance of validating business ideas [00:12:15] How Scott delivers value to his clients [00:14:02] Navigating the entrepreneurial journey with communities [00:17:01] Scott's approach to creating interactive business courses [00:19:45] Scott's free ebook and a special offer for Smashing the Plateau audience [00:23:32] Learn more about Scott at https://14steps.online/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, October 02, 2023
How to Be Viewed on Linkedin as a Resource Providing High-Quality, Consistent Ideas to Your Audience Featuring Annie Franceschi
Annie Franceschi is a leading branding expert, professional speaker, and founder of Greatest Story Creative. After working for Disney and becoming a "branding super sleuth", she is now devoted to helping savvy entrepreneurs tell their story. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how leaving your corporate career and focusing on what you're best at can result in significant business growth. Annie and David discuss: Annie's journey from a corporate career at Disney to becoming an entrepreneur [02:13] How Annie found her niche in business branding [05:46] The benefits of having repeatable processes in your business [08:34] The importance of support from like-minded entrepreneurs [11:12] The significance of running a well-focused business instead of trying to be all things to all people [14:40] Advice for those wanting to venture into entrepreneurship [16:39] A closer look at what Annie does for her clients now [21:54] Learn more about Annie at www.greateststorycreative.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, September 25, 2023
How To Harness The Power Of Community To Take Your Business To The Next Level Featuring Mindy Iannelli
Mindy Iannelli is the Chief Focus Architect of Complete Online Presence, an organization that helps people build their online businesses. Mindy is an expert in creating courses and communities designed to help entrepreneurs become more productive and reach their goals. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to harness the power of community to fuel your entrepreneurial journey and reach new heights in your business. Mindy and I discuss: How Mindy transitioned from web development to building a community [00:13:25] The importance of being open to unexpected opportunities [00:14:05] Mindy’s experience as a community member and leader [00:14:02] The kinds of problems community can solve [00:17:35] How someone else’s post motivated Mindy to take action [00:18:39] Mindy’s definition of community [00:19:30] The ultimate dream for Mindy's community [00:20:30] Where to get in touch with Mindy and learn more about her community [00:20:43] Learn more about Mindy at https://completeonlinepresence.com/succeed-with-ease-membership/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, September 18, 2023
How to avoid the loneliness of going solo
Robin Wycherly is the CEO of Optimize Your Design Business, a company that caters to corporate clients and high-level customers. Robin is also an accomplished interior designer and a business coach, leveraging years of experience in building a small but effective company. In today's episode, you will learn how to avoid the loneliness of going solo. Robin and David discuss: Robin's evolution as an entrepreneur and the shift to coaching [00:13:35] The importance of having a clear vision and identifying a niche [00:13:45] The value of setting up processes and checklists from day one [00:14:00] The significance of systematizing your business process and delegating tasks [00:14:50] The struggle designers experience with delegating tasks [00:15:10] How online communities can provide a supportive environment for solopreneurs [00:18:30] The use of a basic spreadsheet to provide a quick visual insight into your business [00:22:04] Learn more about Robin and his work at optimizeyourdesignbusiness.com . You can download Robin's spreadsheet dashboard at optimizeyourdesignbusiness.com/free . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, September 11, 2023
The Business of Community Featuring Tatiana Figueiredo
Tatiana is a community business strategist, teacher, and founder of The Business of Community, a learning organization helping community founders scale values-driven community businesses. Before focusing exclusively on supporting community founders, Tatiana worked in international sales, marketing, product management, and growing her own community business to 2000+ members. She believes our childhood experiences with connection and belonging play a major part in the communities and businesses we build. Part of her job is helping community founders unlock those experiences and leverage them to build stronger communities. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Tatiana founded the Business of Community and what makes community a unique aspect of how a business can succeed. Tatiana and David discuss: How Tatiana's varied background led her to building communities [00:02:35] The challenges and rewards of creating a community-led business [00:14:30] The unexpected decision to become an entrepreneur [00:14:40] The shift from working in a startup to venturing out on her own [00:15:15] The transition from in-person community to online during the pandemic [00:17:30] The elements that make community-building fun and rewarding [00:17:10] The evolution of Tatiana's business, from consulting to creating a community [00:18:35] The tension and balance between building community and running a business [00:20:40] How to incorporate 'community vibes' into standard business operations [00:22:30] Learn more about Tatiana, her work, and The Business of Community at https://businessofcommunity.co Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, September 04, 2023
When You Give Yourself Permission Featuring Michal Stawicki
Michal Stawicki, nicknamed Mr. Consistency, is a bestselling author in the personal development field(19 books, over 85,000 copies sold), business coach, and founder of the book advertising agency Resurrecting Books. He is obsessed with changing the world through daily habits, starting with his own habits and his world. Michal preaches and practices consistent daily action. He believes this is the means to achieve success in any area of life, from parenting to business. In today’s episode, you will learn what happens when you give yourself permission to start something new. Michal and David discuss: Michal's transition from a lifelong employee to an entrepreneur [00:05:00] The power of consistent daily action in achieving success [00:10:10] The challenges and rewards of managing a team and oneself in entrepreneurship [00:15:10] The importance of adapting online lessons to one's specific situation [00:20:15] The role of community and collaboration in business success, as exemplified by Michal's experiences [00:25:35] Learn more about Michal at his personal blog, Expand Beyond Yourself , and his business website ResurrectingBooks . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, August 28, 2023
How to Make Career Fulfillment a Career Reality Featuring Alicia Ramsdell
Alicia Ramsdell is the Founder & CEO of Mindful Career Path. She started this organization with the intention of making career fulfillment a career reality for her clients. Since then she inspires Corporate Partners and individuals through career development conversations. Most recently, she inspired her audience sharing her message on the TEDx stage. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to make career fulfillment a career reality. Alicia and I discuss: About her career journey [01:42] What is the correlation between mindfulness and career fulfillment [04:35] Why is she in her business [06:10] How did she navigate unexpected transitions [12:40] How to be true to the values and teachings [14:34] How to be authentic in yourself [17:53] What is the primary problem she solve for her ideal clients [18:22] What are the benefits of being in a community [23:55] Learn more about Alicia: Visit her page at www.mindfulcareerpath.com Listen to her TedX talk : "It's not whether we achieve our goals, but whether we dared to try" Check out her highly-rated children's book : "The One and Only Incredible ME!" Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, August 21, 2023
Learn Techniques You Can Use to Ask Friends, Colleagues and Mentors for Help Even When it Feels Difficult to Do So Featuring Ethan Chazin
Ethan is a performance improvement coach and change management consultant. His unique value proposition is, he specialize in working with clients to improve their people's performance, productivity, and profitability through training, coaching, and culture consulting. In todays’ episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn techniques you can use to ask friends, colleagues and mentors for help even when it feels difficult to do so. Ethan and I discuss: Ethan’s experience becoming a corporate refugee [00:24] How our self-worth reflects what we share with others [01:55] 4-5 relationships that are key to your success [06:12] Asking for help is not so easy [10:07] Techniques to ask for help when it feels hard to do [12:05] Relationships in a community [18:49] Learn more about Ethan at https://thechazingroup.com or get in touch with Ethan at ethan@thechazingroup.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, August 14, 2023
Learn How to Sell Your Expertise Featuring Caitlin Doemner
Caitlin Cogan Doemner is the founder & CEO of VirtualCoachingSales.com and ecstaticsales.com. After studying at Oxford University and getting her MBA from Biola University, Caitlin Doemner launched a sales management company which generated over $11M in new revenue for its clients in 8 years. She has published multiple books, including “The Unseen Sales Machine” and “Sell with Heart.” After realizing that the coaching industry needed more transparency, she launched BookofExperts.com -- a referral network and a media company that gives transformational leaders (like coaches and consultants) more visibility and consistent referrals. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to use an ongoing process to sell one promise to one person. Caitlin and I discuss: How to sell without explicitly stating that you are selling something [02:35] How she built her company and made the shift to entrepreneurship [03:04] How she recovered from a tragic event [04:11] What the key secret is to successful selling [06:30] How to approach selling as an act of love and service [07:59] How the sales team can effectively collaborate with consultants and coaches [14:44] At what stage in business consultants and coaches require assistance [17:07] Why prioritizing revenue over profit is not the right approach in business [20:43] What her personal experience is as a member of a community [21:36] Learn more about Caitlin at https://ecstaticsales.com/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, August 07, 2023
How to Ditch Hourly Billing Featuring Jonathan Stark
Jonathan Stark is a former software developer who is on a mission to rid the world of hourly billing. He is the author of Hourly Billing Is Nuts, the host of Ditching Hourly, and writes a daily newsletter on pricing for independent professionals. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can make more money without working more hours. Jonathan and I discuss the following topics: How did he become focused on ending the hourly billing model? [01:38] How long did it take for Jonathan to see the changes in his income? [05:32] How did he discover value-based fees? [05:48] What reasons did Jonathan come up with to go solo? [07:47] Who is his target audience for his teaching model? [10:34] What is needed for a mindset shift? [11:39] How to ensure that price will dictate costs? [11:52] What did his mindset shift in providing value first? [15:26] What does it take to make a shift and start your own business? [17:35] How does community become a game changer for him? [20:02] What is his definition of community? [22:47] Learn more about Jonathan Stark at http://valuepricingbootcamp.com/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, July 31, 2023
How to Productize Your Services Featuring Wayne Pelletier
After 25 years as a creative professional, Wayne Pelletier founded Resonant Pixel Company just three years ago. The business experienced some early rapid growth, but it wasn't the business Wayne wanted. He has since transitioned the company into productized services, helping small businesses leverage the Squarespace platform to go from having an informational brochure-ware website to a transactional growth engine. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can create consistency and financial stability in a creative business where your competitors typically sell projects. Wayne and I discuss: How he went from unemployment to getting his business started [02:03] Why Wayne focuses on the Squarespace platform [05:17] Working in your business vs. working on your business [06:24] Learning how to hire [09:29] How to delegate and get great results for clients [13:30] Wayne’s experience with community [21:24] Learn more about Wayne at https://resonantpixel.co and https://www.linkedin.com/in/waynepelletier/ . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, July 24, 2023
How to Scale an Expertise-Based Business Featuring Jason Van Orden
Jason Van Orden helps consultants and coaches turn their expertise into online courses and group programs so they can help more people and generate more income. Jason’s mission is to help visionaries with impactful ideas to connect with the people they serve best and the problems they can most uniquely solve. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can exceed your previous employment income by connecting with the people you can serve best and provide outcomes that they desire. Jason and I discuss: Why he focuses on working with consultants and coaches [01:41] Strategies for increasing income quickly [02:58] How to overcome your lack of self-confidence while having conversations with clients [10:26] How to exceed your corporate income substantially [14:52] The benefits of collaborating in a community leadership role [21:15] Learn more about Jason at https://jasonvanorden.com/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, July 17, 2023
How to Make the Last Quarter of Your Career Your Best Quarter Featuring Scott Couchenour
Scott A. Couchenour’s professional life of 30 years as a corporate COO and then CEO ended abruptly. He had to close the family business forever. Scott found his way out. Today, he works primarily with Executive Leaders and Business Owners in their 40's-50's to tame the chaos, design their next adventure, and then implement that journey through an iterative, cyclical coaching methodology. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can prepare for an epic 4 th quarter of your career and finish strong. Scott and I discuss: His abrupt career pivot [02:13] Nurturing pre-client relationships [07:48] Serving vs. selling [12:01] Active listening to be a resource for clients [15:24] Mistakes that didn’t produce clients [16:44] How to find the best resource to help you through a career transition [18:57] The feeling of being controlled by circumstances or other people's decisions [22:53] Learn more about Scott at https://www.servingstrong.com and https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottcouchenour . Get in touch with Scott at coach@servingstrong.com . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, July 10, 2023
How to Get More Clients When You Hate Selling Featuring Reuben Swartz
Reuben Swartz is the founder of Mimiran, where his experience as a sales and marketing consultant for the Fortune 500, who struggled with his own sales and marketing efforts, led him to create the fun “anti-CRM” for independent consultants who love serving clients but hate "selling." He's also the host and chief nerd on the Sales for Nerds podcast. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can have great conversations in an organized way and increase new business. Reuben and I discuss: How Reuben ended up creating a CRM [02:41] Why independent consultants need their own CRM [04:27] How consultants can overcome their dislike of selling [06:21] How to create a system for having consistent, meaningful conversations [08:38] Connecting with other like-minded business owners in community [16:48] Learn more about Reuben at www.mimiran.com , www.mimiran.com/stp , and www.salesfornerds.io . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, July 03, 2023
From F100 C-Suite to Owner and CEO Featuring Janice Burg-Levi
Janice Burg-Levi is a former Business & Marketing Executive with a diverse background in financial services, global telecommunications, media, and technology. She has spent her career leading business strategy and marketing at companies such as AT&T, Avaya, Unisys, Accenture, and KPMG, and now is the owner and CEO of Intracoastal Marketing and Strategy Group, LLC. She is also the host of a national podcast called It's Great Business. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how a career-leading business strategy and marketing for global companies empower the success of a new CEO in her own business. Janice and I discuss: Her career, relationships, and community [02:39] How community led to Janice’s podcast [08:28] What caused Janice to start her own business [11:18] The hidden cost of not having a marketing plan [15:16] Business transformation you can achieve with effective marketing [17:31] Learn more about Janice at https://intracoastalmarketingstrategy.com and get in touch with Janice at janice@intracoastalmarketingstrategy.com . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, June 26, 2023
How to Live Your Values in a Career Transition Featuring Emmy Petersson
Emmy Petersson is a certified coach who has worked with people in transitions that involve career changes and/or changes in their country of residence since 2013. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to unlock what’s next in your career to find flow, fulfillment and connect with your values in your work. Emmy and I discuss: What led Emmy to start her business [01:47] Developing your niche [05:37] How to restart your career when you feel stuck [07:17] How to make a major transition and increase your income [15:51] Community experiences [20:47] Learn more about Emmy at https://www.linkedin.com/in/emmy-petersson-career-coach/ , and https://www.thebridgecoaching.com.au/ . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, June 19, 2023
How to Build a Successful Coaching Business Featuring Porschia Parker-Griffin
Porschia Parker-Griffin is CEO of Fly High Coaching. She and her team of coaches and resume writers have helped thousands of clients with their career, leadership, and business goals. She is a Professional Certified Coach, a Myers-Briggs Type Indicator Master Practitioner, and holds a Hogan Assessments Certification. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can build a successful coaching business and stand out in your marketplace. Porschia and I discuss: How she made the transition from employment into her own business [01:57] How Porschia found the support she needed to grow her business [08:38] Getting the right support when you aren’t hitting your business objectives [10:33] The importance of an exit strategy [11:20] Positive surprises that turned out to be game changers [13:57] The importance of listening to your clients [17:35] Why communities are vital to your business growth [19:50] Porschia also has experience as a Director and Business Consultant in the financial industry, helping companies unlock millions of dollars in potential hiding in their companies. She has been recognized as a Career Expert by LinkedIn and hosts the Career 101 Podcast. Learn more about Porschia at http://www.fly-highcoaching.com/ . Access the free Kick-Start Your Success Course at http://www.fly-highcoaching.com/kss . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, June 12, 2023
How to Harness the Incredible Power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Featuring Tim
Tim Miner, an AI Strategist and Consultant, is President of By The People Technologies, as System Integrator for AI and Salesforce. Tim is an experienced executive who has held leadership roles at Salesforce, IBM, and Tact.ai. He currently directs By The People Technologies LLC, helping clients achieve digital transformation through innovative AI-based solutions. As a consultant, Tim understands the need for organizations to set achievable goals for successful AI integration. He is also a Visiting Professor at Pratt Institute, teaching how to build AI into Design Thinking. With ChatGPT, Tim empowers management teams to leverage AI and stay ahead in their industry. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to revolutionize your strategy, creativity and efficiency using the new and emerging tools of artificial intelligence. Tim and I discuss: What led Tim to learn how to use AI [02:43] How AI is posing threats and creating opportunities for corporate refugees [03:29] How to use AI for efficiency, strategy and creativity [05:23] Treating AI like a junior associate [14:46] Finding unexpected opportunities with AI [17:06] Using AI to enhance your interaction with community [19:33] Learn more about Tim at https://bythepeople.tech Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, June 05, 2023
Working Women: Overcome Adversity, Fear and Self-Doubt Featuring Gayle Keller
Gayle Keller is a former Microsoft sales executive who spent the last 20+ years in tech and felt called to smash the plateau by contributing to close the gender gap in the S.T.E.A.M. fields after seeing firsthand the gender biases that still exist in the workplace (coupled with the births of her two toddler daughters). In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to overcome adversity, fear, and self-doubt, especially if you are a woman. Gayle and I discuss: Why Gayle went solo [02:21] Taking risks [09:06] Backtracking [10:26] Moving forward with courage and confidences [12:41] Relationships and community [16:12] Gayle empowers women--and girls in S.T.E.A.M.--to take calculated risks and follow their dreams through her five-pillar methodology highlighted in her international bestselling book Full S.T.E.A.M. Ahead: Triumphant Tales for Working Women to Overcome Adversity, Fear, and Self-Doubt. Learn more about Gayle at https://gaylekeller.org . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, May 29, 2023
Fix Your Dry Sales Pipeline Featuring Stephen Woessner
Stephen Woessner is the founder and CEO of Predictive ROI (PROI), a digital marketing agency, and the host of Onward Nation and Sell With Authority Podcasts. Since the advent of the commercial Internet, Stephen has collected tens of thousands of data points that have given him the ability to identify what he calls the “8 Money Draining Mistakes” and the “8 Money Making Opportunities.” In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn you can increase revenues online consistently and repeatedly. Stephen and I discuss: Why you need to have a purpose for your podcast [00:38] The concept of a platform to grow your business revenue [00:57] The link between content creation and business development [03:34] How he uses a podcast to help other businesses [05:34] Relating dry sales to 8 kinds of mistakes [10:02] How to identify your target audience when you’re a corporate refugee [12:43] Stephen’s experience in communities [18:10] Learn more about Stephen at www.predictiveroi.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephenwoessner/ Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, May 22, 2023
Does Your LinkedIn Profile Generate Business? Featuring Tracy Enos
Tracy Enos is well-versed in making the best use of LinkedIn … and she has been for over a decade. She is on the front end of LinkedIn changes and is invited to sit in on brainstorming sessions when LinkedIn kicks around changes. She works with lots of professionals, entrepreneurs, and career types helping them substantially improve their profiles. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can turn LinkedIn into a revenue-generating tool. Tracy and I discuss: How Tracy became a LinkedIn expert [02:04] Common mistakes corporate refugees make with LinkedIn [10:33] How LinkedIn is different than your website [13:41] Personal vs. Business Profile [16:34] How you can use LinkedIn as a content creation tool [18:06] Tracy’s experience in communities [24:35] Learn more about Tracy at https://theultimateprofilechecklist.com/ and connect with Tracy on LinkedIn . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, May 15, 2023
Fine Tune Your Customer’s Journey Featuring Paul Sokol
Deemed the "Mad Scientist" of sales & marketing automation, Paul Sokol has been involved in countless projects as a result of his world-class customer journey automation and advertising authority. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how pattern recognition fuels your marketing and sales process. Paul and I discuss: Paul’s background as an electrical engineer [01:42] Machine learning and advertising [03:09] Connecting everything to your customer’s experience [13:56] Learning new tools and adding the skillset to your business [18:22] Learn more about Paul at https://bepro.events/linktree, https://book.paulsokol.me Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, May 08, 2023
Remarkable Speaking Featuring Shelley Goldstein & Mark Bossert
As international speaking coaches and founders of Remarkable Speaking, Shelley Goldstein and Mark Bossert have trained thousands of people in over 40 countries from just about every industry on how to become confident and compelling speakers. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to unlock your inner voice to be seen, speak with intention and make meaningful connections anywhere, anytime about anything. Shelley, Mark, and I discuss: How they learned storytelling [01:44] How to set the stage [05:09] Where storytelling can be most effective for corporate refugees [10:14] Where community experiences intersect with remarkable speaking [16:34] Their definition of community [21:18] Learn more about Shelley and Mark at https://remarkablespeaking.com/ , https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleygoldstein , and https://www.linkedin.com/in/markbossert . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, May 01, 2023
Finding Your Unique Value as a Consultant Featuring Dave Saliaris
As an accomplished corporate business leader, Dave made a career of turning around underperforming business sectors through thought leadership, innovation, and the use of best practices. Today he uses his 31 years of experience to empower companies to build sellable value through a private consultancy. As a 𝘾𝙀𝙍𝙏𝙄𝙁𝙄𝙀𝘿 𝙀𝙓𝙄𝙏 𝙋𝙇𝘼𝙉𝙉𝙄𝙉𝙂 𝘼𝘿𝙑𝙄𝙎𝙊𝙍 |𝘾𝙀𝙍𝙏𝙄𝙁𝙄𝙀𝘿 𝙑𝘼𝙇𝙐𝙀 𝘽𝙐𝙄𝙇𝘿𝙀𝙍 Dave works with clients to create ultimate freedom, to own a valuable, sellable business, that’s not dependent on the owner - which means you can scale, sell, pass down or simply run as chairman without being involved day-to-day. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Dave discovered where his 31 years of experience as an accomplished corporate business leader would best serve his clients and himself. Dave and I discuss: Dave’s 31-year career as an accomplished corporate business leader before he became an entrepreneur [02:23] How Dave’s experience led him to become a certified exit planning advisor and certified value builder [03:12] Finding what business model most suits your personal needs [08:21] Finding your ideal client [09:57] Avoiding a false revenue stream [11:49] How to do exit planning [14:33] Developing the right relationships [19:11] The benefits of community to a business owner [20:46] Learn more about Dave at https://saliarisconsulting.com/ , https://www.linkedin.com/in/davesaliaris/ , and get in touch with Dave at dave@saliarisconsulting.com . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, April 24, 2023
Entrepreneurial Success After a Long Corporate Career Featuring Doug Thorpe
Since 2008, Doug Thorpe has been helping hundreds of leaders in all types of businesses find ways to be more effective, have greater influence, and build stronger teams. He’s taken 30+ years of business ownership and leadership and put together an easy, common-sense approach to help with the business challenges of today. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can set yourself up to build the business that supports your life goals. Doug and I discuss: Why Doug left a career in banking [01:44] The importance of courage when making a leap [04:30] How his career evolved as an entrepreneur [06:58] Independent consulting and coaching are not like what is taught in business school [18:02] Community and business [19:41] Learn more about Doug at https://dougthorpe.com Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, April 17, 2023
From Caving in to Crushing It Featuring Drew Deraney
Because he endured four life traumas in a 9-month span without seeking support, Drew Deraney now knows asking for help is a strength. He is dedicated to helping build a stronger man who is prepared to face adversity healthier and come through stronger, in more empowering ways. After 30 years serving in the hospital/healthcare industry and as a franchise owner, he gave it all up to address men’s empowerment as the Men’s Real Catalyst Speaker, a new author, and a podcaster – From Caving In To Crushing It. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to turn unexpected professional and personal adversity into success on your own terms. Drew and I discuss: Drew’s career [02:11] Faith-shaking events [05:14] Moving forward from that [09:58] Showing up with a new definition of success [15:57] Connection to community [22:29] Learn more about Drew at https://profitcompassion.com/ , https://from-caving-in-to-crushing-it.castos.com/ , https://amzn.to/40dsbyR . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, April 10, 2023
Rebooting Your Career: Launching a Business After 50 With Tessa White
If you are past 50 and wondering if it's "now or never" to start a business, or take that business risk, how do you prepare yourself for that journey? Or know if the risks are worth the reward? Tessa White is a Reformed Fortune 50 HR executive who decided to work the other side of the problem and help people navigate the difficulties of working in corporate America. Tessa Started a business in October of 2020 called The Job Doctor and quickly found her audience. She now has over a million followers and teaches people how to get ahead without losing themselves and teaches companies and people how to balance out the power and have better partnerships. As a side note, Tessa was 53 when she made this pivot and at the height of her career. She’d never been happier. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, Tessa and I discuss our careers and perspectives on work and life that may inspire you to be courageous in your next step and become more fulfilled in your own work and your life. Tessa and I discuss: Our career journeys [03:09] How we felt when we leapt into entrepreneurship [14:53] The importance of connection [17:15] How to overcome a lull [21:45] How to overcome the fear of getting started [26:09] Tessa has a new book out --The Unspoken Truths for Career Success. It is a workplace manual for how to navigate pay, promotions, and power at work. Learn more about Tessa at https://thejobdoctor.com Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, April 03, 2023
Leadership During Crises Featuring Jeffrey Buchanan
Lieutenant General Jeff Buchanan commanded US Army North (Fifth Army). After a 37-year Army career, he retired from active duty on September 1, 2019. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how Jeff led complex combat and humanitarian operations and now is a leadership consultant to governments and companies. Jeff and I discuss: Jeff’s career [02:19] The primary problem Jeff now solves [05:03] Leadership and trust [07:45] The value of humility [16:14] Connecting to community through common purpose [21:28] Learn more about Jeffrey at https://jeffreysbuchanan.com . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, March 27, 2023
Three Steps to Double Your Website Revenue Featuring Michael Buzinski
Michael Buzinski is a decorated US Air Force veteran, life-long entrepreneur, digital marketing thought leader and best-selling author. He has built several small businesses, two multi-million-dollar enterprises, and marketed over 1200 companies. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the Rule of 26: Three steps to double your website revenue. Michael and I discuss: Three metrics that can double the revenue from your website [04:05] The simplicity behind Michael’s target niche [07:54] Don’t grow for growth’s sake [09:52] Focusing on what is scalable [12:39] Taking the complexity out of digital marketing [18:43] Michael’s experience with community [19:43] Community has to do with connecting [23:24] Dubbed a “marketing visionary” by the American Marketing Association, Michael is on a mission to eradicate entrepreneurial poverty in America by simplifying the digital marketing strategy process with the Rule of 26. His revolutionary approach helps business owners avoid the time drain and frustration of managing profitable digital marketing campaigns. Learn more about Michael at www.ruleof26.com and www.buzzworthy.biz . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, March 20, 2023
You Can Do Extraordinary Things Featuring Martha Wilson
After 27 years undercover with the CIA, Martha Wilson is an expert at helping ordinary people uncover their hidden drivers, derailers, and showstoppers so they can do extraordinary things. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can do extraordinary things. Martha and I discuss: Her career [02:08] Making the transition from CIA to business advisor [04:35] How Martha built a sustainable business [10:13] Where Martha has found community [14:08] A spy story [14:57] Entrepreneurs and leaders hire Martha when the stress of running their business or career is starting to bleed over into the rest of their lives, and they are ready for that to stop. Learn more about Martha and get a free copy of CIA Spy Secrets to Making Goals Work for You at: www.marthaawilson.com/stp . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, March 13, 2023
What is Success? Featuring Kiley Peters
Kiley Peters is a serial entrepreneur, small business strategist, executive coach, operations consultant, and brand marketer with nearly 15 years of industry experience. She is on a mission to help 1 million women build more financially free and fulfilling lives. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can turn your unique strengths and skill sets into a profitable business to build the life you want and love the work you do. Kiley and I discuss: Her career journey [01:47] The meaning of success [06:00] Determining what you want and how to get it [13:38] Being active in the community [19:31] Learn more about Kiley at www.rayneix.com , www.kileypeters.com , https://www.instagram.com/welcometoeloma , https://www.instagram.com/the.100.co/ Learn more about the 100 Collective at https://www.the100co.com , and use the discount code SMASH. Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, March 06, 2023
Own Your Value and Reach Your Highest Potential Featuring Analiza Wolf
Analiza Quiroz Wolf is an Executive Coach and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Facilitator. She is committed to guiding leaders, especially women and people of color, and organizations to their highest potential. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to guide leaders, especially women and people of color, and organizations to their highest potential. Analiza and I discuss: Her career journey [02:20] How past experiences lead to today’s focus [08:09] The unique challenges for women of color in leadership [09:33] The questioning of self-worth that’s inculcated as part of our culture [11:13] How to overcome the feeling of lack of self-worth [13:01] How working at your mindset can be a game changer [16:00] Community supporting your ability to thrive as a leader [19:03] Community as a place where you feel safe, feel seen, and you can share hard things [22:00] Learn more about Analiza at www.analizawolf.com , www.linkedin.com/in/analizawolf/ , and www.instagram.com/analizawolf/ Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, February 27, 2023
How to Reach Sustainability in Record Time Featuring Diane Tarshis
Diane Tarshis is the founder of Startup Distillery, where she provides one-on-one startup consulting and business planning to new (and new-ish) entrepreneurs who are experts in what they do but have never built a business before. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how entrepreneurs who are experts in what they do but have never built a business before, can get the clarity and guidance they need to build a sustainably profitable business, get funded, and fast-track success. Diane and I discuss: Why she focuses on startups [02:20] How to overcome the fear factor and think big enough [07:12] Why building sustainability in record time is so important [11:31] Why thinking about your financial structure makes a huge difference [17:16] Business success for solopreneur consultants [20:04] Diane’s experience with the Smashing the Plateau Community [27:34] Diane’s background includes a Wharton degree as well as a broad corporate background that includes a stint on Wall Street as well as manufacturing, operations and retail, all of which informs the work that she does. Learn more about Diane at https://startupdistillery.com . Schedule a conversation with Diane at https://startupdistillery.com/calendar . Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, February 20, 2023
How to be Seen, Heard and Found in Our Noisy Digital World Featuring Tom Hazzard
As a top influence strategist for speakers, authors & experts, Tom Hazzard helps major publications, sports stars, and entrepreneurial influencers ‘Brandcast’ their original messages via podcasting and videocasting. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can become an influencer by knowing how to be found online. Tom and I discuss: Tom’s creative career journey [02:24] The importance of turning ideas into products [12:36] How to reach more people with your message [15:40] The value of having a podcast [20:18] Success metrics for podcasters [24:10] Valuable community experiences [27:32] Tom is a real inventor and successful product designer with over 40 US patents issued and pending. He has been rethinking brand innovation for 30 years. His latest SaaS (Software-as-aService) and MaaS (Marketing-as-a-Service) innovation, Podetize, reinvents podcast hosting, advertising, and brand marketing with an obsessive podcaster-centric focus on solutions to get hosts seen, heard, found, and rewarded in our noisy digital world. Learn more about Tom at https://podetize.com and https://tomhazzard.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, February 13, 2023
How to Buy or Sell a Consulting Business Featuring David Barnett
David has been working with small and medium-sized businesses for over 20 years. He has helped entrepreneurs buy and sell them. He has helped them grow. He has helped people finance them. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to achieve greater financial success as a solopreneur through the transactions of buying or selling a business. David and I discuss: David’s career [02:25] How David developed multiple revenue streams [06:44] The team that supports his business [11:21] How purchasing a consulting business can accelerate your success [11:56] David’s experience as a community member [21:59] David is the author of 8 books about small business transactions and local investing. He is the host of a YouTube channel with hundreds of videos about buying, selling, financing, and managing small and medium-sized businesses. Learn more about David at www.DavidCBarnett.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, February 06, 2023
Why You Need Psychological Safety to Feel Successful Featuring Teresa Mitrovic
Teresa Mitrovic is the Founder of Oro Collective, a leadership learning consultancy which helps leaders develop the skills to achieve exceptional outcomes while creating a culture they can feel proud of leading. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how the experience you are having as an entrepreneur is connected to the tangible performance outcomes you measure. Teresa and I discuss: Teresa’s career [02:30] The courage to pursue different kinds of professional experiences [11:58] Soft skill metrics as the lead indicators for business performance [21:02] Balancing metrics with the experience you are having as an entrepreneur [22:28] Communities we serve and communities we belong to [24:43] The four Cs of trust – what do you do and who you are being [27:10] Teresa began consulting after a career in senior leadership roles with Hasbro, The Walt Disney Company, and Universal Pictures. Teresa has delivered keynotes and workshops and coached leaders from all walks of life. A recognized expert in psychological safety, trust, and performance, Teresa also authored The Currency of Connection - how trust transforms life, relationships, and work . Learn more about Teresa at: https://www.orocollective.space/ The Psych Safety Project: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/the-psych-safety-project-6892397826123423744/ Special gifts: $75 discount off courses at https://www.orocollective.space/smashing-the-plateau Free copy of Self-Trust Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 30, 2023
How to Avoid the Money Suck of the Online World Featuring Juliet Clark
Juliet Clark is a six- time author, speaker and podcaster who has spent the last twenty years helping authors, coaches, speakers, and small businesses all over the world build expert audiences. Juliet and I discuss: Juliet’s background [02:06] What experts need to know about self-publishing [05:17] Your book as a nurturing tool [06:49] Influencers who are great marketers, yet not great at delivering results [12:02] Juliet’s platform-building process [14:57] What community means [24:27] Juliet is the founder of Superbrand Publishing, a hybrid publishing house. She started out as a mystery novelist and is best known for her books Gypsy, Granny Heist, Dead by Dawn, and Pitchslapped. At age 46, Juliet received a black belt in Tae Kwon Do and is an avid hiker and golfer. Learn more about Juliet at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julietdillonclark/ www.superbrandpublishing.com https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/promote-profit-publish/id1445478653 www.breakthroughauthormagazine.com https://buildyourauthoravatar.com Thank you to our sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community
Mon, January 23, 2023
How to Get a Return on Your Investment in Digital Ads Featuring Jennifer Spivak
Jennifer Spivak is the CEO of The AdGirls Agency, an all-female Facebook Ads agency. She has helped hundreds of businesses generate millions of dollars on Facebook & Instagram, with many seeing a 1000%+ return on their ad campaigns. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the 4 messaging points that will differentiate your digital ads from everyone else. Jennifer and I discuss: How she landed in the niche of digital ads [02:11] Who Jennifer’s system is not good for [07:13] Who Jennifer’s system is good for [08:26] The core elements of her digital ad process [10:38] How Jennifer developed her process [16:32] How to mitigate the risk of being platform-specific [18:58] When COVID hit, the benefit of being connected to communities [23:37] Jennifer’s team enjoys crunching data, helping women-owned businesses make money, and breaking the rules of Facebook ads. Jennifer has been featured in Forbes & The New York Times, listed as a Top Facebook Ads Manager to Watch in 2019, and is an adjunct professor of digital marketing at The City College of New York. Learn more about Jennifer at https://theadgirls.com https://jenniferspivak.com/million-dollar-agency/ 25% off online course with the discount code: SMASH Thank you to our sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, January 16, 2023
How to Get More Clients and Earn More Money by Design not by Accident Featuring Bill Doerr
Bill Doerr is the Chief Connection Officer at SellMore Marketing. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to get more clients and earn more money by design not by accident. Bill and I discuss: Bill’s background [02:01] The basic elements of Bill’s process [09:46] How to generate 10-15 introductions per month of the people who can best understand the value, desire, and afford the kind of services you want to sell [15:31] How Bill has benefitted from his interactions with communities [28:29] Bill’s service helps clients do 3 things: SEE . . . MORE PEOPLE overall, than they do now SEE . . . MORE PROFITABLE PEOPLE, and FOLLOW-UP . . . with KEY PEOPLE for their business. Bill is an ATD-certified coach who built his career in sales and marketing positions that reflect his passion for people and business. He likes to say, “Thanks to the internet and a headset, I can work with clients anywhere, anytime to help them grow their business by design, not accident!” Learn more about Bill at http://GetNewClientsNOW.com . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, January 09, 2023
How to Design Work to be Fit for Humans Featuring Thomas Bertels
Thomas Bertels is the president and founder of Purpose Works Consulting and is on a mission to make work more productive, valuable, meaningful, and impactful. He has 25 years of experience helping clients transform their organizations and achieve lasting performance gains. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to use your unique skills and experiences to do what you love and are most competent at doing and to make a huge impact on your clients. Thomas and I discuss: Thomas’ career [02:05] What it means for work to be more fit for humans [04:05] The methodology to make work more fit for humans [08:50] How Thomas has managed his own career transitions [11:45] Reaching out to colleagues for help and participating in communities [15:42] Community as a group of people that have something in common and are watching out for each other [19:50] Thomas has worked with clients ranging from Fortune 500 companies to start-ups across a broad range of industries and around the globe. He is the author of three books and a recognized thought leader on process improvement. Learn more about Thomas at www.purpose.works . Get in touch with Thomas at info@purpose.works . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, January 02, 2023
How to Turn Relationships into Business Success Featuring Paul Brubaker
In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, host David Shriner-Cahn interviews business leader Paul Brubaker about networking and building real relationships that lead to growing revenue. Paul discusses his career, which has included time in finance and operations as well as consulting and offers advice on how to approach networking in a way that leads to successful relationships. He emphasizes the importance of building trust and being honest about what you can and can't deliver, as well as knowing when to refer others to people who have the expertise you lack. Paul also talks about the value of being part of a consulting community that can help you develop the skills you need to succeed in your business. Episode Outline Introduction to Paul Brubaker and his background in finance, operations, and consulting Discussion of the importance of networking and building real relationships in growing revenue Tips on how to approach networking in a way that leads to successful relationships The value of trust and honesty in building relationships with clients and colleagues The role of a consulting community in helping to develop skills and expertise Conclusion and wrap-up of key takeaways from the interview with Paul Brubaker Learn more about Paul at paul.brubaker@icloud.com . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, December 26, 2022
How to Transform Your Relationship with Money Featuring Mikelann Valterra
In this episode of Smashing the Plateau, host David Shriner-Cahn speaks with money coach Mikelann Valterra about the importance of financial planning and creating a spending plan. Mikelann discusses her background in economics and psychology, and how she became a money coach after discovering the field of financial psychology. She explains that a money coach focuses on both the practical and emotional aspects of managing money and differs from financial planners and credit counselors. The conversation turns to the topic of spending plans and how they can help individuals manage their finances and reach their goals. Mikelann shares some practical tips for creating a spending plan, including setting clear financial goals, tracking spending, and building in flexibility. She emphasizes the importance of emotional intelligence in financial planning, and how it can help individuals overcome obstacles and design the life they want. In conclusion, Mikelann encourages listeners to take control of their finances and create a spending plan that works for them. She emphasizes the importance of financial planning in achieving personal and financial goals and living a fulfilling life. Introduction to Mikelann Valterra, expert in the field of financial psychology and money coaching. Mikelann discusses her background in economics and psychology, and how she became a money coach. David asks Mikelann to explain what a money coach is and how they differ from financial planners and credit counselors. Mikelann talks about the importance of emotional intelligence in financial planning and how it can help individuals design the life they want. The discussion turns to the topic of spending plans and how they can help individuals manage their finances and reach their goals. Mikelann shares some practical tips for creating a spending plan and sticking to it. The conversation wraps up with some final thoughts from Mikelann on the importance of financial planning and how it can help individuals live a more fulfilling life. Learn more about Mikelann here: https://seattle-money-coach.mykajabi.com/how-to-stop-stress-about-money-create-life-you-love https://www.instagram.com/seattlemoneycoach/ https://www.facebook.com/MikelannSeattleMoneyCoach https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikelannvalterra/ https://twitter.com/Mikelann Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Sm
Mon, December 19, 2022
How to be a Successful Business Author Today Featuring Wendy Keller
Wendy Keller is an award-winning former journalist, a respected literary agent, an author, a speaker, and an acclaimed book marketing consultant. Wendy is a prominent advocate for authors taking a vibrant, active role in promoting their work. Keller Media is a literary agency that helps authors succeed by advising on cutting-edge marketing strategies, advanced book promotion practices, and the best-known use of media, social media, and paid speaking. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can become a known expert so that you have a platform for your book. Wendy and I discuss: Her experience with book publishing, particularly for non-fiction books [02:30] The influx of young people in the business [04:04] How her business has become referral driven [05:10] How she helped someone through paid speaking [06:08] How to be a successful business author today [07:27] Strategies to leverage your business book [08:44] The importance of having a published book rather than self-publishing [11:16] How the consumers will find you [13:35] Learning to sell your expertise through writing a book [16:47] The power of proper marketing [15:43] Classifying which self-promoter you are [20:15] Her experience with community and being part of the community [22:53] Learn more about Wendy at https://kellermedia.com Submit a Book Proposal here: https://kellermedia.com/query Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, December 12, 2022
Automate Your Marketing Featuring Jason Resnick
Jason Resnick is a marketing automation expert, founder of NurtureKit, and a recovering web developer. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to engage your clients with email. Jason and I discuss: How Jason hones his unique skills at the intersection of digital data and human behavior[06:06] Understanding human behavior relevant to email marketing[08:18] Learning the methodology to develop expertise[13:00] How to identify the motivation of your ideal client [14:37] Knowing your ideal clients through motivation and emotion [18:09] Learning the methodology to develop expertise [12:59] Identifying ideal clients [14:37] The difference between email automation and simple automation [17:50] His experience as part of online communities [22:44] The importance of community [24:49] Learn more about Jason at https://nurturekit.co/stp Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, December 05, 2022
The Gentle Business Revolution Featuring Sarah Santacroce
Over a decade of running a successful LinkedIn Consulting business inspired a yearning in Sarah Santacroce to create a global movement that encourages people to bring more empathy and kindness to business & marketing. As a ‘Hippie turned Business Coach’, Sarah has written two books, hosts the Humane Marketing podcast and works with heart-centered entrepreneurs to question their assumptions when it comes to marketing and give them permission to market their business their way, the gentle way! Sarah shares a fresh perspective and doesn’t shy away from calling things out that no longer work for many of us when it comes to the current marketing model. Her clients sometimes refer to her as ‘the female Seth Godin’. In todays’ episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to market to the generation that cares Sarah and I discuss: How Sarah made the transition to Humane Marketing [02:54] What Sarah did differently in her new business [05:56] How the principle of Humane Marketing may apply to consultants [08:54] How people will resonate with you [15:38] How much time your business needs to develop a Humane Marketing approach [17:33] The marketing concept of the Chinese bamboo tree [19:50] Building connections and relationships in the community [20:52] The definition of “community” [23:29] The 7 Ps of Humane Marketing in Mandala form [24:25] Learn more about Sarah at https://humane.marketing/one-page-marketing-plan/ . Learn about the Humane Marketing Community at: http://www.humane.marketing/circle Get Sarah’s Marketing book here: Marketing Like We're Human Selling Like We're Human Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community Circle
Mon, November 28, 2022
The Power of Group Coaching Featuring Dominique Mas
Dominique Mas is the Head of Coaching and Curriculum at Medley and the Founder of Group Coaching HQ. Passionate about creating engaging growth opportunities for individuals and groups, she creates a unique learning environment using LEGO, visual thinking, and assessments in her trainings and coaching engagements. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the power of bringing people together with a common purpose. Dominique and I discuss: How Dominique got into group coaching [02:19] Learning to do more of what you love and still get paid what you're worth [06:45] Finding a balanced approach to building your business [08:32] Dominique’s group coaching [12:37] Aligning our unique set of skills and experiences with needs in the marketplace [17:39] Being part of a community [18:57] Dominique holds a Masters’ in Educational Leadership and Change, and coaching certifications from the NeuroLeadership Institute and the ICF (PCC). She is also a Hogan Certified Coach. She is a surfer and adventurer, and she lives a peaceful life in Brooklyn, NY with her partner, the artist Swissipino and Professor the awesome dog. Learn more about Dominique at http://groupcoachinghq.com and https://bit.ly/GCHQ-MN Brief Description of Gift $200 off the winter cohort of Group Coaching HQ How to Get the Free Gift Add smashing the plateau in the referral box on the application form Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, November 21, 2022
How to Become a Speaker, Consultant, Coach and Author Featuring Rebecca Ahmed
Rebecca Ahmed is a TEDx speaker, business consultant, and an Energy Leadership Index™ Master Practitioner (ELI-MP), which is an exclusive training in human energy and how we can experience, express, and expand it in ourselves and others. Rebecca is also a Professional Certified Coach (PCC) with the International Coaching Federation (ICF). In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to leave your corporate career and build a successful business model with your expertise. Rebecca and I discuss: What caused Rebecca to become an entrepreneur [02:04] How Rebecca decided on her business model [04:15] How Rebecca found her niche [05:51] What works well for business development [08:37] How to build your business as a speaker [09:12] How Rebecca became a TEDx speaker [10:19] Pivots due to COVID [13:41] How to find like-minded people [16:14] Rebecca’s forthcoming book [19:17] Learn more about Rebecca at www.energeticimpact.com and www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-ahmed-802a9514 Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, November 14, 2022
How Your Consulting Income Can Exceed Your Last Salary Featuring Amy Rasdal
Amy Rasdal traded her corporate job for consulting 15 years ago and makes more money than most executives. Amy works and plays every day. Amy founded Billable at the Beach® to liberate 6-figure earners by helping them build 6-figure consulting businesses. Amy is passionate about helping others find the freedom and flexibility to live the life of their dreams, without sacrificing the career they’ve spent so long building. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can build a high-earning consulting business. Amy and I discuss: Amy’s new book [02:09] Why you need to focus on revenue first [02:52] Why selling is very personal [04:39] What struggling consultants need to do differently [10:27] How Amy structures her time [14:58] What consultants need when it comes to community [24:41] Learn more about Amy’s book, "Land a Consulting Project NOW!: Build a life of freedom, flexibility, and inspiring work running your own 6-figure business," at https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0B1B4Y7D8 and learn more about Amy at https://www.billableatthebeach.com . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, November 07, 2022
How to Put an End to Your Limiting Beliefs Featuring Dr. Jayne Gardner
Dr. Jayne is a Business Strategist helping entrepreneurs eliminate their people problems by installing an employee-focused culture. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to deactivate the primal wound that is limiting your beliefs and causing your success to plateau. Jayne and I discuss: The primal wound that the Gardner Method deactivates [02:21] The impact of primal wounds on challenging transitions [06:43] Steps you can take to deactivate your primal wounds [10:06] Patterns of multiple primal wounds [17:56] When therapy might be needed [19:59] The Gardner Method is a personal growth system for identifying, processing, and permanently deactivating the primal wound that we all carry unconsciously in our work life. Deactivating this emotional control over us raises leaders’ Emotional Set Point, improving employee engagement while raising the happiness level of all people they touch in their personal and business lives. Learn more about Dr. Jayne at https://drjaynegardner.com , jaynegardner@gardnerinstitute.com , https://twitter.com/jaynegardner https://www.facebook.com/jayne.main1 , https://www.facebook.com/drjaynegardner , https://www.instagram.com/drjaynegardner Brief Description of Gift Discount for any offerings on Jayne’s website Coupon Code drjayne25 Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, October 31, 2022
Why Continuous Experimentation Leads to Marketing Success Featuring Caelan Huntress
Caelan Huntress started his career as an acrobat in the circus, earning and maintaining the attention of an audience as a street performer. He applies those lessons to marketing, where he earns and maintains the attention of a demographic. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn why continuous experimentation leads to marketing success. Caelan and I discuss: What he tried that didn’t work [03:33] How consultants can position themselves as quickly as possible after a job exit [04:23] Why you need to separate your market research from your sales [13:10] Finding your niche [16:04] What is working online and what is hype [19:33] Caelan is an American digital nomad living in New Zealand and has spent ten years running an online business while traveling the world with his young family. Caelan is a dynamic speaker, trainer, and business coach, who combines his skills as a theatrical performer and technical geek to make compelling virtual experiences. Learn more about Caelan at https://caelanhuntress.com/coaching and https://marketingyourselfbook.com/freechapter and https://stellarplatforms.com/case-studies Brief Description of Gift Free chapter of the Marketing Yourself for subscribing to the Stellar Platforms Newsletter URL for Free Gift https://marketingyourselfbook.com/freechapter/ Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, October 24, 2022
Be an Agile Leader Featuring Chuck Mollor
Chuck “Charlie” Mollor is founder, CEO, executive coach, and advisor at MCG Partners, an organization that specializes in leadership and talent optimization, aligning business and people strategy for maximum results. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to be an agile leader and build a business that is modeled to serve your clients and you well. Chuck and I discuss: Chuck’s career and personal journey [02:27] How Chuck specialized [06:59] What led Chuck to write his book [10:01] Techniques he recommends for agile leaders [11:30] Examples of agile leaders [13:52] How to choose the right business model [17:25] Chuck is the author of his new and best-selling book, The Rise of The Agile Leader: Can You Make the Shift? , Amazon’s #1 best-selling book on management. As a recognized expert in leadership effectiveness, a former Harvard Business School executive coach, and a member of the Forbes Coaches Council, Chuck specializes in coaching and advising senior, global executives and leadership teams through times of rapid-growth, M&A, and change. Learn more about Chuck at www.mcgpartners.com , www.chuckmollor.com Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, October 17, 2022
How You Can Find Resources for Exponential Opportunity Featuring Mark Monchek
Mark Monchek is the Founder and Chief Opportunity Officer of Opportunity Lab, a strategy and facilitation consultancy helping mission-driven organizations grow thriving, resilient businesses that create abundance for everyone they touch. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can find the resources for exponential opportunity. Mark and I discuss: The blurring of the lines between employees and consultants [03:42] How to think about your resources and your value [05:10] An exercise to develop a generosity mindset [7:49] How consultants and coaches can leverage their resources [14:55] His own future opportunity [18:30] Mark is the author of the Amazon nonfiction bestseller Culture of Opportunity: How to Grow Your Business in an Age of Disruption . Mark has worked with leaders from Google, Apple, JPMorgan Chase, General Electric, Goldman Sachs, Adorama, TerraCycle, Feltsberg, The New York Times, Wharton School of Business, New York University, Columbia University, NBC, Time Warner, and the United Nations. He’s been featured in Real Leaders, The Better Business Book, the Organization Development Review Journal, Lifetime Network, WPLJ, WCBS, Newsday, Working Women Magazine, and the San Francisco Chronicle. Mark has a passion for helping leaders grow organizations that are catalysts for a better world and believes that a strategy only works if you take every part of a business into consideration. He uses innovative but tested facilitation techniques to help leaders and teams identify their gaps and blind spots, lean into their strengths, and amplify their impact in a changing marketplace. Learn more about Mark at https://www.linkedin.com/in/markmonchek/ , https://opplab.com/ Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, October 10, 2022
Get Colleagues to Tell Your Story the Way You Want to be Known Featuring Dr. Cindy McGovern
Dr. Cindy is best known as the First Lady of Sales™. She is an internationally renowned business and motivational speaker and Wall Street Journal's best-selling author. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to get your colleagues to tell your story the way you want to be known. Cindy and I discuss: Why she decided to write “Sell Yourself” [02:10] How Dr. Cindy describes her own impact [04:57] Where to start creating your framework for your story [07:05] Key strategies for turning your story into new business [10:29] Mistakes consultants make when packaging their brand [12:21] Techniques to help colleagues present the right message about you [14:03] Things you can do to stay top of mind with your referral sources [16:12] Why you need to ask for referrals [19:14] Dr. Cindy has inspired thousands by getting them to think differently about sales, selling, and success, both in their professional and personal lives. She helps take the ‘ick’ out of sales by helping people to embrace their inner 5-year-old. Learn more about Cindy at https://drcindy.com/ .
Mon, October 03, 2022
How to Create Multiple Revenue Streams Featuring Hannah Smolinski
Hannah Smolinski is a CPA and the founder of Clara CFO Group, a virtual CFO agency providing small businesses with financial clarity and profit maximization strategies. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to turn your expertise into multiple active and passive revenue streams. Hannah and I discuss: Hannah’s career [00:40] How Hannah found her business model [05:31] How Hannah developed a recurring revenue model [07:03] Her various revenue streams [13:04] How Hannah started selling digital offerings [16:19] The impact of Hannah’s business on her work/life integration [20:19] Hannah’s experience working for one of the world’s largest accounting firms inspired her to make corporate expertise accessible to small business owners through fractional CFO services. She also hosts a YouTube channel with over 36,000 subscribers and uses the platform to help small businesses achieve financial success. Learn more about Hannah at https://www.youtube.com/c/claracfogroup , https://claracfo.com , and hannah@claracfo.com . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, September 26, 2022
Caring About Our Clients is Good for Our Business Featuring Craig Lomax
Craig is a leadership development coach. Prior to his career as a coach, he co-founded and directed Rock-N-Water, an adventure camp in California, for thirty years. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn why caring for your clients is good for your business. Craig and I discuss: Craig’s smart dog [02:33] Craig’s career transition [04:25] How Craig changed his way of interacting when he started his business [06:23] How Craig addressed the challenges of pride and insecurity [10:19] Craig’s advice for someone transitioning from employment to coaching [21:10] Craig and his wife of over thirty years have three adult children and one smart dog. In his spare time, Craig is a mental health advocate and suicide prevention trainer. Learn more about Craig at www.craiglomax.com and contact Craig at craig@craiglomax.com. Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, September 19, 2022
How to Sell Expensive Intangible Services Featuring Steve Gordon
Bestselling author and marketing expert Steve Gordon gives you the blueprint for writing your own Million Dollar Book in days–not months or years–and shows you how to use your book to boldly win the best clients and command premium fees. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how a book can help you sell something that is very expensive and completely intangible that your clients don’t understand.” Steve and I discuss: How Steve became an expert in how to write a book [02:36] A simplified process to create a book [06:02] When a new consultant should think about creating a book [10:05] The importance of narrowing your focus [12:33] Recognizing your unique, opinionated worldview [15:01] How a book leads to sales [17:09] Learn more about Steve at https://unstoppableceo.net/ , https://writeyourmilliondollarbook.com/ , https://apply.writeyourmilliondollarbook.com/ Brief Description of Gift The Million Dollar Book URL for Free Gift Themilliondollarbook.org/smashing Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, September 12, 2022
How to Grow Fast When the Opportunity is There Featuring Jess Dewell
Jess Dewell charts courses for resilient growth-oriented companies. She is a consensus builder, culture advocate, and operational executive with more than two decades of business experience. Sometimes you simply require a little help to spark that business motor into a rip-roaring mode of priority-setting, problem-solving, and goal-attainment to maximize effort. Working closely with Jess, you learn to ask the right questions and think effectively on your feet. Jess is nationally recognized for her understanding that the interplay of constraints and growth is where achievement happens. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to get out of your own way when communication is lagging, and people are spread too thin. Jess and I discuss: What Jess is proud of in her career [03:27] Helping clients succeed [06:15] The kinds of roles Jess plays [09:08] How Jess’s career evolved [11:55] Her ideal client [18:04] What it takes to be successful as a consultant [20:11] Holding a weekly retreat to work on your business [24:19] Learn more about Jess at https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicadewell/ or https://reddirection.com . Get Jess’s Business Management report here .
Mon, September 05, 2022
Choosing Courage Over Fear Featuring Diana Acuna
Diana Acuna has spent the last 20 years in SaaS, helping companies evaluate and implement software solutions across a variety of industries. Despite having success throughout her career, deep down she was afraid to be herself and afraid of what other people thought, so she became a perfectionist. She had focused on the external factors that would progress her career rather than the internal struggles that were holding her back. One day she decided to choose courage over fear and realized that expressing her feelings, opinions, and emotions wasn’t going to kill her. In fact, the opposite was true. People engaged and responded positively. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how improving your emotional intelligence can drive lasting change in your career and your life. Diana and I discuss: Choosing courage over fear [03:26] What happens when you share your struggles [07:57] How you feel about sharing your vulnerabilities [09:55] Techniques for sharing sensitive information [11:59] Diana’s likes and competencies [16:46] Integrating employment and entrepreneurship [18:52] Today, Diana is a speaker and coaches professionals on how to improve their emotional intelligence so they can drive lasting change in their careers and lives. Learn more about Diana at https://dianatalks.com or https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianaacuna/ . Thank you to Our Sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, August 29, 2022
How to Create Hype with a Secret Society Featuring Michael Schein
Michael F. Schein is the Head Hype Artist at MicroFame Media, a company that specializes in making idea-based businesses famous in their fields. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn one of the success secrets used by the world’s greatest self-promoters. Michael and I discuss: How he uses his “Secret Society” concept [03:20] How to start a “Secret Society” [08:59] The rise in interest in communities [13:51] The unique value Michael offers his “Secret Society” [17:14] When Michael started his “Secret Society” [20:09] The results Michael has observed from participants [21:46] Michael’s ideal client [26:05] Learn more about Michael at http://microfamemedia.com , https://www.hypereads.com/list , https://twitter.com/MichaelSchein1 , and https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfrancisschein/ . Thank you to our sponsors: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://community.smashingtheplateau.com Circle https://smashingtheplateau.com/circle
Mon, August 22, 2022
How to Sell Your Expertise and Have Space for Your Family Featuring Holly Hester-Reilly
In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to sell your expertise when it’s new to the market and have space for your family. Holly and I discuss: How her career evolved [03:03] What caused her to focus on product initiatives [04:33] Working as an employee vs. an entrepreneur [05:17] The hurdles transitioning into entrepreneurship [06:10] Finding solutions for financial tracking and staying motivated [06:45] How you know when it’s time to get help [07:33] Responding to a hefty price tag for help [09:09] How Holly realized she needed a method to stay motivated [09:39] Using a mastermind to stay motivated [10:13] What it’s like to sell your expertise when it’s new to the market [12:05] How Holly determined her content marketing process [14:06] Where Holly distributes her content and why she chose those channels [14:47] What portion of her time Holly devotes to content marketing [15:51] What process Holly uses to build her network [16:18] What advice Holly has for experts selling ideas that are new to the market [17:40] Looking to the future, what Holly wants to be well known for [18:27] Holly is a former Columbia University research scientist and has spent the last 15 years leading product initiatives at startups, high-growth companies, and enterprises like FalconX, MediaMath, Shutterstock, The Lean Startup Co, Unilever, Capital One, and Weight Watchers. Holly also teaches at NYU Stern School of Business as well as public and private workshops and has spoken about building high-growth products for events such as Lean Startup Summit Europe, ProductTankNYC, Parsons School of Design, and INDUSTRY: The Product Conference. Learn more about Holly at www.productsciencepodcast.com . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://smashingtheplateau.com/openhouse
Mon, August 15, 2022
How to Build an Authority Business Featuring Rochelle Moulton
Rochelle Moulton turns independent consultants into authorities. The author of The Authority Code: How To Position, Monetize And Sell Your Expertise, she has been called “an emotional Red Bull” for her balance of inspiration and practical advice. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to go from expertise to authority, along with big financial benefits. Rochelle and I discuss: Some of the differences between experts and authorities [03:18] Patterns that emerge from experts that effectively market their authority [08:54] The most important sales target when you market your authority [11:24] How taking a stand can generate risk in your head [14:23] How long it may take to build a financially successful authority business [19:11] Business model differences between experts and authorities [20:55] Learn more about Rochelle at https://rochellemoulton.com/ . Thank you to Our Sponsor: The Smashing the Plateau Community https://smashingtheplateau.com/openhouse
Mon, August 08, 2022
How to Use an Easy System to create Video Content Featuring Vikram Rajan
Vikram Rajan is the co-founder of Videosocials, a video blogging system for lawyers, accountants, consultants & coaches. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how you can use an easy system to create video content to increase your word-of-mouth referrals. Vikram and I discuss: What he learned about marketing to a niche [06:47] Understanding the pain points of your niche [07:59] Why is content creation an important marketing activity when you are selling your expertise [10:03] Why a system is important for creating content [15:59] How to identify a good system for your business [17:23] Vikram is also the founder of Videosocials’ VIP service: Video Interview Podcast management for those who want to "just show up at show time!" And have all the time-consuming, annoying stuff done for them. Learn more about Vikram at www.Videosocials.net .
Mon, August 01, 2022
Why Your Vision Needs to be BIG Featuring Natalie Ledwell
Dame Natalie Ledwell is a bestselling author, host of the podcast, Not Over, Just Different, co-host of the cable TV show WAKE UP, and founder of Mind Movies, the hugely successful and revolutionary online Personal Development company that has reached over 10 million people worldwide. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to identify your niche and create a BIG vision to turn it into reality. Natalie and I discuss: How she found her audience [02:26] Why personal development and mindset are her primary focus [03:15] How to wind down activities as you are launching something new [05:46] Why surrounding yourself with the right people is critical to your success [10:31] The importance of a BIG vision [15:03] How 50+ year old women can achieve success that fills their soul [16:45] Learn more about Natalie at: https://mindmovies.com/ https://mindmovies.com/podcast/ https://personalgrowthstudies.com/
Mon, July 25, 2022
How to Find a Niche that Sells Featuring Andrew Kamphey
Andrew Kamphey had a very meandering career. He became a google sheets wizard and now sells a very lucrative niche offering based on his skills. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn the very simple process Andrew used to find his niche. Andrew and I discuss: What caused his career to lead to google sheets [02:22] How Andrew created a business around his google sheets niche [10:55] How to persevere until you experience success [15:11] What Andrew learned about building a niche offering [19:25] Learn more about Andrew at https://bettersheets.co .
Mon, July 18, 2022
How to Transform Content from Boring to Brilliant Featuring Tom Ruwitch
Tom Ruwitch is founder and Chief Story Officer at Story Power Marketing. Coaches, consultants, and other experts hire Tom to power up their stories because most dish out the same “blah, blah, blah” content, put prospects to sleep, and then feel fed up and stuck. In today’s episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to transform content from boring to brilliant, turn marketing from frustrating to fun, and convert results from pitiful to profitable. Tom and I discuss: Why he started Story Power Marketing [03:04] Why he decided to focus on expert-based businesses [05:13] Why relationships are so important [08:39] How storytelling distinguishes you as an expert [16:12] Learn more about Tom at: https://storypowermarketing.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomruwitch/ tom@storypowermarketing.com
Mon, July 11, 2022
How to Build a Solo Marketing Strategy Business Featuring Eric Elam
Eric Elam is the founder and president of Elam Associates, a solo marketing agency focused on delivering customized marketing solutions for small and midsized companies. In today's episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to start and build a solo business in your field of expertise. Eric and I discuss: His career journey How Eric went out on his own How long it took Eric to land his first client We’re all product of our past environments Why you need to invest in marketing during economic challenges How to listen for your ideal client opportunity Eric's 3 decades plus career traversed from corporate side marketer to consultant to ad agency executive, then on to his current solopreneur role. Eric resides in Cincinnati, Ohio with his wife of 41 years, Cindy. You can learn more about Eric at: www.elamassociates.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/elamassociates/ https://twitter.com/ericelam 513-703-5334
Mon, July 04, 2022
How to Use LinkedIn to Build Your Consulting Business Featuring Marc Halpert
LinkedIn trainer Marc Halpert helps consultants and professional service professionals build their thought leadership with LinkedIn. In todays’ episode of Smashing the Plateau, you will learn how to be viewed on LinkedIn as a resource providing high-quality, consistent ideas to your audience. Marc and I discuss: How to increase your revenue [03:02] How often you should update your profile [07:28] How to get people to see your posts [09:40] Quantity vs. structure in your activity [13:19] Using non-text content [22:58] Marc’s vision for LinkedIn [26:11] Marc W. Halpert is a self-described “multi-preneur.” Since leaving the corporate finance world in 2001, Marc has started 3 companies, all of which he still operates. In 2010, Marc started his third concurrent company, connect2collaborate, to spread his LinkedIn and networking evangelism to train and coach others. In all his LinkedIn training and coaching, he offers professionals the opportunity to better explain their brand and positioning on their LinkedIn profile pages: who they really are and why them vs. the competition. For several months, Marc ranked among the top 5 list for fastest growth in number of followers among global LinkedIn coaches and trainers (#1 in August 2020!). He attributes that standing to consistently high-quality curated material and original thought leadership he shares daily on LinkedIn. As a personal LinkedIn coach, he advises and mentors professionals to tell “why they do what they do” (not “what”) as he works with them to renovate their LinkedIn personal and company profiles. As a LinkedIn trainer, Marc has been recognized as a high-energy speaker at national and regional Conferences, instructor to sales/marketing and HR/training departments at large and small professional service firms and businesses, and trainer in specialized groups of professionals such as associations. Marc is a frequent podcast guest, has authored numerous articles on the latest LinkedIn techniques for self-branding in national publications, both in paper and online. He blogs every business day with a LinkedIn Nugget. His book, LinkedIn Marketing Strategies for Law and Professional Practices (2021 second edition, American Bar Association), helps all types of professionals learn to better market themselves using the tools in LinkedIn. Learn more about Marc at https://connect2collaborate.com , https://www.linkedin.com/in/marchalpert/ , https://twitter.com/marchalpert , and htt
Mon, June 27, 2022
How to Sell Your Expertise as a Consultant Featuring Craig Swanson
Craig is a Former IT Consultant, Co-Founder of CreativeLive, and Seattle EO Accelerator Chair We discuss: How Craig learned to sell consulting services How to have a sales mindset Where to create the boundary between what you give away and what you charge for How employee vs. consulting behavior impacts your sales ability How to turn a surface-level question into a sales conversation Finding out how much a prospect really wants to solve a problem How you can leave a job and start selling yourself as a consultant Craig Co-Founded CreativeLive, and he is now the Seattle EO Accelerator Chair. Learn more about Craig at https://craigswanson.org, and on LinkedIn .
Mon, June 20, 2022
How to Figure It Out as You Go Featuring Julie DeLucca-Collins
Julie DeLucca-Collins is the Founder and CEO of Go Confidently Services and the host of the popular Casa DeConfidence Podcast®. We discuss: A journey of a teacher to the corporate world [02:28] The planner without a real solid plan [06:18] Mr. Google as a good ally in the career journey [10:51] The fear of talking to your first potential client [12:29] When price is rarely the issue [15:50] Why you should make your pricing packages sexy [17:24] A referral from a superfan [19:18] How to overcome the drama that might come with being an entrepreneur [20:25] As a Business and Life Strategist Coach, Julie helps women business owners launch or grow their businesses, get clients, be productive, and achieve their dreams. Julie helps her clients create simple habits to achieve goals and change lives. Julie is also the best-selling author of the newly released book Confident You (simple habits to live the life you've imagined). Learn more about Julie at https://www.goconfidentlycoaching.com .
Mon, June 13, 2022
How Long Does It Take to Become Famous? Featuring Maria Rosati
Maria Rosati is the founder and CEO of Eminence Communications - a boutique advisory working with change makers to build brands and corporate reputations. We discuss: How to [re]embrace your individualism [02:40] The people that [don’t] want to be a cog in the wheel [05:30] A mental equation to help you know if entrepreneurship is for you [08:38] Women in corporate communication who are past the age of 60 [10:20] What it feels like to take control of your destiny [13:11] When entrepreneurs should turn the lights out and shut the door [15:47] The power of community to test your idea [17:58] The difference between having the business come to you through referrals versus selling [20:19] Right and wrong ways to build a personal brand [21:54] Learn more about Maria at www.eminencenyc.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, June 06, 2022
Aligning Your Brand with Your Authentic Self Featuring Suzanne Tulien
As author of The 6 Myths of Small Business Branding, and author of and co-pioneer of Brand DNA; Uncover Your Organization’s Genetic Code for Competitive Advantage, and her 3rd book, Personal Brand Clarity; Identify, Define, & Align to What You Want to Be Known For, she is helping to pave the evolutionary highway for businesses to grow by conscious, strategic design, not by default! She facilitates the Brand DNA methodology (an internal brand identification, definition and alignment process) for her clients across the U.S. We discuss: Unique differentiators to use when describing yourself [02:54] How to start sharing personal information in brand development [07:10] Conscious versus unconscious branding [11:25] How to course-correct when you feel out of alignment [12:40] How clarity can help when going out of your comfort zone [16:10] How to create a brand clarity process [19:11] Learn more about Suzanne at https://brandascension.com , LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram .
Mon, May 30, 2022
Understanding the Power of Perseverance Featuring Tina Larsson
Tina Larsson is the co-founder and owner of The Folson Group, the premier coop and condo cost consultant who helps NYC coop and condo owners and apartment building owners increase their property values. The company is a business consultant and a disruptor in the residential real estate world. Tina holds a LEED Green Associate designation and is on a mission to make NYC greener, more sustainable and more affordable one building at a time. We discuss: How not to introduce yourself as a financial advisor [02:20] It takes ten years to make an overnight success [06:10] How to prove there’s a high demand when no one sees it [08:26] The sweet spot for a new business idea [13:25] Unexpected ways that you can get fired [15:02] Not a social media platform but a networking event [22:00] Learn more about Tina at https://www.thefolsongroup.com/
Mon, May 23, 2022
How to Create Fun + Easy Video Marketing Featuring Nina Froriep
Nina Froriep has seen it all from the early 90ies on independent features, to big national TV commercials, corporate mega-shows, and Emmy award-winning documentary films, including one she produced and directed, called Abraham's Children. We discuss: A better, faster, cheaper way to put yourself out with videos [02:25] The connection between finding your audience and niching down [06:34] What people really need to start shooting videos [08:21] Three kinds of groups that find it hard to show up on video [12:32] How to gain confidence to post your videos online [14:38] The biggest fears about creating videos [18:53] Future trends in video production [21:52] Today she’s super excited to enable business coaches and service-based entrepreneurs to grow their businesses with fun + easy video marketing so they can attract their ideal clients. Learn more about Nina at https://clockwiseproductions.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, May 16, 2022
Building a Product to Solve Your Own Pain Point Featuring David Henzel
David Henzel is the CEO of upcoach and a veteran entrepreneur who has been building in the saas and e-com space for over 20 years. He had multiple exits, including MaxCDN. We discuss: Applying business principles to your personal life [03:14] A one-stop-shop for your coaching business [06:57] 80% of the problems in the coaching industry [08:03] How to avoid scaling too fast in the initial phase [11:24] What makes upcoach different from other similar platforms [14:11] The liberation of hiring people who are better than you [16:27] His passion is to help individuals and their organizations reach their full potential. Aside from upcoach (Coaching Delivery System), he has a small portfolio of companies including LTVplus, (Outsourcing for e-commerce & saas), TaskDrive (Sales Development), Shortlist.io (Digital Marketing Agency), and his passion project Managing Happiness (Peak Performance Group Coaching for entrepreneurs). Learn more about David at www.davidhenzel.com/ , www.upcoach.com , www.managinghappiness.com , LinkedIn , Twitter and Facebook .
Mon, May 09, 2022
Reimagining Growth Through Strategic Partnership Featuring Daniel Varroney
Daniel A. Varroney is the author of the groundbreaking new book, Reimagining Industry Growth. He is also founder of Potomac Core, a strategic consulting firm that specializes in association transformation and industry-focused strategic partnerships. He has built a successful career as an association executive, leading organizations with diverse focus, from manufacturing to high tech to finance and advocacy. We discuss: An unquenchable thirst for writing [02:10] The bottom of what gets you out of bed in the morning [05:19] A third place between work and home [12:24] Why you don’t want to be a one-year wonder [17:28] Bitten by the bug [21:00] Learn more about Daniel at https://potomaccore.com
Mon, May 02, 2022
Finding Your Niche at the Intersection of Evolutionary Psychology and Digital Marketing Featuring Tim Ash
Tim Ash is an acknowledged authority on evolutionary psychology and digital marketing. He is a sought-after international keynote speaker, and the bestselling author of Unleash Your Primal Brain and Landing Page Optimization. We discuss: Great traffic to awful websites [02:52] How to make your transition from corporate to solopreneuership easier [05:15] Why it’s important to not put all your eggs in one basket [07:57] Don’t underestimate what you can do in a day [09:27] How to make billions of stars accessible to people [11:18] Understanding the human brain without any scientific jargon [13:57] How to take advantage of the negativity bias [16:27] Universal applicability versus technical trends [20:05] Tim has been mentioned by Forbes as a Top-10 Online Marketing Expert, and by Entrepreneur Magazine as an Online Marketing Influencer To Watch. For nineteen years he was the co-founder and CEO of SiteTuners – a digital optimization agency. Tim helped to create over 1.2 billion dollars in value for companies like Google, Expedia, eHarmony, Facebook, American Express, Canon, Nestle, Symantec, Intuit, Humana, Siemens, and Cisco. Please help me welcome Tim Ash! Learn more about Tim at https://timash.com .
Mon, April 25, 2022
Why You Need a Marketing Plan for Your Book Featuring Jane Wesman
Jane Wesman is an entrepreneur, marketing expert, and mentor. President of Jane Wesman Public Relations, based in New York City, Jane is one of the country’s top book publicists with an impressive record of creating national bestsellers, particularly in the areas of leadership, management, and personal growth. She has worked with such business thought-leaders as Charles Schwab, Stephen Covey, Peter Drucker, Marcus Buckingham, and Keith Ferazzi. We discuss: Major challenges for consultants who want to publish a book [03:19] When is a good time for publishing a book [06:30] Why a book can be beneficial for you and your business [08:53] A process that will help ensure success of a book [10:19] Types of investment options for getting your book effectively marketed [13:58] How to find a good team when writing your first book [20:40] What makes book publishing a long journey [22:35] Jane's own book, Dive Right In – The Sharks Won’t Bite: The Entrepreneurial Woman’s Guide to Success, was one of the first to offer concrete advice to help women launch and grow their businesses. She has lectured and written on the topics of leadership and business for many organizations and media outlets. Jane served as president of the New York City chapter of the National Association of Women Business Owners for four years. She currently sits on the boards of two non-profit organizations: ArtSail and the Women’s Media Group, plus she provides funding for an internship program at Simmons University to help students kick-start their careers. Learn more about Jane at www.wesmanpr.com and YouTube .
Mon, April 18, 2022
How to Leverage LinkedIn as a New Consultant Featuring JD Gershbein
Since 2006, JD Gershbein has been at the forefront of the social media conversation. One of the world’s first independent LinkedIn consultants, JD pioneered a model of authentic business communication that serves ambitious professionals striving to make their mark in the Digital Age. We discuss: What to do with your LinkedIn profile once you’re unemployed [04:33] Why it’s important to disambiguate yourself early on [06:47] How to find your dominant aspect of value [10:50] You can’t do too much too soon [13:22] How to use LinkedIn to build your social network [15:24] Why automated sales pitches don’t work for consultants [18:27] As a speaker, facilitator, writer, and media producer, he draws upon his diverse academic background—a fusion of psychology, neuroscience, and the humanities—and the improvisation skills he honed at Chicago’s famed Second City to bridge the knowledge gap that exists between professionals and the virtual world. Learn more about JD at LinkedIn.
Mon, April 11, 2022
Author of Tiny Business, Big Money, Elaine Pofeldt
Elaine Pofeldt, journalist and author of Tiny Business, Big Money. We discuss: Common strategies for one-person businesses [02:22] Automation is always a low-hanging fruit [07:06] How enthusiasm makes us hard on ourselves [10:53] What prompts employees to start their own business [14:03] How to dominate a very tiny niche and think as big as Jeff Bezos [17:07] A semi-scientific testing of a product [26:30] Learn more about Elaine at https://www.elainepofeldt.com , LinkedIn and Twitter .
Mon, April 04, 2022
Why You Need to be Obsessed with Your Clients’ Success Featuring Desmond Dixon
Desmond has over 5 million dollars in sales experience with personal enrollments in the thousands. He has worked in numerous industries and has brought his marketing and sales philosophy into a number of organizations. We discuss: Getting through a chemical engineering degree when you want to be in sales [02:23] If you’re not failing, you’re not trying [06:13] The honesty recipe for sales success [08:59] When the role models don’t speak to you [12:12] How to keep the doors open without spending a dollar on marketing [14:48] The intersection of business psychology and clients’ interests [19:24] Giving a ton of value by the dancefloor [21:19] He first began his sales career in a corporate company where he went from intern to one of the top sales professionals in the region. After realizing the power of empathy, he left the corporate space to train professional development in the workspace. Desmond is currently building a fast-growing sales team at an international start-up and a venture digital marketing agency. Now, he is also starting up his new pod, Campfire Capitalism with two great co-hosts. Learn more about Desmond at https://campfirecapitalism.com/ , LinkedIn , Instagram and Twitter .
Mon, March 28, 2022
Why You Need to Share Your Expertise Featuring Lori Highby
Lori Highby is a podcast host, speaker, educator, and founder of Keystone Click, a strategic digital marketing agency. Using her vast multi-industry knowledge - gained from experience and education, she has the ability to see the potential of greatness within the already established good of a business. We discuss: The courage to ask “Who do you know” [02:40] Three golden rules of networking [05:31] The real problem with the follow-through [07:50] The least smartest person in the room [10:44] Why you aren’t getting found [14:33] How to make your website work for your referrals [19:10] The best way to prove your expertise [22:10] Through strategic actionable moves, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies such as ABB and Syngenta to micro-business owners, to achieve their marketing goals. Lori carries her energy and drive into her professional engagements in order to empower and educate other fellow life-long learners. Learn more about Lori at www.keystoneclick.com , www.lorihighby.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, March 21, 2022
How to Establish a Branded Consultancy Featuring Kevin Perlmutter
Kevin Perlmutter is Chief Strategist & Founder of Limbic Brand Evolution - a brand strategy & neuromarketing consultancy. Kevin helps brand leaders get even better at attracting and retaining customers, by turning emotional insight into a competitive advantage. We discuss: It’s about focusing on what matters most [02:45] The evolution DNA as a key to achieving freedom [07:00] Disadvantages of nickel and dime conversations [08:34] What makes a great working relationship [12:40] Three steps to creating lead generation [16:00] Focus, connect and evolve [19:37] Learn more about Kevin at https://www.limbicbrandevolution.com/ and LinkedIn .
Mon, March 14, 2022
Why Daydreaming Can Lead to Incredible Opportunities Featuring Juliet Hahn
Juliet Hahn is a storyteller, consultant, public speaker, and content creator. Her mission in life is to give Women and Men a stage to share their stories. She believes deeply that everyone has a story and we all can learn from each other. We just need to listen. We discuss: Women can do it all [02:02] How to lower the financial pressure when starting your own business [06:58] Happy but not really happy [09:08] What the first clients will give that you haven’t thought of [13:38] That extra thing that will light you on fire [17:33] Quarantine stories that get you out of your world [19:05] Why it’s so important to find the time and space to daydream [21:45] Learn more about Juliet at https://www.iamjuliethahn.com/ , LinkedIn , Twitter , and Facebook .
Mon, March 07, 2022
Writing a Parable to Influence Your Audience Featuring Brian Ahearn
Brian Ahearn is the Chief Influence Officer at Influence PEOPLE. An international trainer and consultant, he specializes in applying the science of influence in everyday situations. He is one of only a dozen individuals in the world who holds the Cialdini Method Certified Trainer designation. We discuss: Why influence is critical for the success of a consultant [03:06] How to feel comfortable staring at a camera [06:25] The more you like them, the more they like you [09:17] How to learn to write in a story format [11:23] The lie about becoming like Ernest Hemingway [15:33] When your biggest critique likes your book [17:32] A family legacy that embraces the power of story [19:08] Brian’s first book, Influence PEOPLE: Powerful Everyday Opportunities to Persuade that are Lasting and Ethical, was named one of the Top 100 Influence Books of All Time by BookAuthority. His LinkedIn courses have been viewed by more than 4,000,000 people around the world. Learn more about Brian at https://www.influencepeople.biz and LinkedIn .
Mon, February 28, 2022
What is Your Virtual Style? Featuring JD Gershbein
Since 2006, JD Gershbein has been at the forefront of the social media conversation. One of the world’s first independent LinkedIn consultants, JD pioneered a model of authentic business communication that serves ambitious professionals striving to make their mark in the Digital Age. We discuss: The virtual equivalent of your best self [04:52] Why selling too soon is a horrible problem [05:53] How to be known as somebody who can be trusted [07:42] The relationships that truly serve you [11:12] The cream has risen to the top [13:48] It’s just people talking to people [17:36] How to feel good about yourself in the online world [20:31] As a speaker, facilitator, writer, and media producer, he draws upon his diverse academic background—a fusion of psychology, neuroscience, and the humanities—and the improvisation skills he honed at Chicago’s famed Second City to bridge the knowledge gap that exists between professionals and the virtual world. Learn more about JD at https://www.owlishcommunications.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, February 21, 2022
Leading a B2B Association Featuring Jim Roddy
Jim Roddy is the President and CEO of the Retail Solutions Providers Association. He has been active in the retail IT industry since 1998, including 11 years as the President of Business Solutions Magazine, six years as an RSPA board member, and several years as an industry business coach. We discuss: The journey of a volunteer to becoming the CEO [02:41] Technology as a differentiator in retail [05:26] How to make competitors part of the same team [08:38] The core of leading a community or a membership [12:26] The consequences of lacking in-person events [15:44] Tips on what may foster engagement in an online format [18:27] A great resume versus high character [24:08] Jim has been recognized as one of the world’s Top 100 Retail Influencers and is regularly requested to speak at industry conferences on SMB best practices. He is the author of two books – The Walk-On Method To Career & Business Success and Hire Like You Just Beat Cancer – and is host of the award-winning RSPA Trusted Advisor podcast. Learn more about Jim at www.gorspa.org , www.jimroddycba.com , LinkedIn and Twitter .
Mon, February 14, 2022
Fitness Fosters Productivity and Reduces Stress Featuring Carl Ficks
Carl Ficks helps busy professionals get back in the fitness game so they can be less stressed and a lot more productive. His "Ficks System" is a proven road map for athletes and weekend warriors alike. We discuss: Trial work as an extension of athleticism [02:49] How to mix skills and attributes as an artist [04:53] Stitching the net together before jumping [06:42] Litigation is the art of imitation [11:15] Why many folks can never escape the home office [12:28] Professionals who know what fitness can do [14:48] What works well for speaking and coaching in times of pandemic [17:14] Why you don’t need fancy equipment to do a great workout [18:58] A walk at the airport [20:14] A former trial attorney for 30 years, Carl has presented to diverse audiences, including the Connecticut Bar Association, the Travelers, and the Wyoming State Bar. His bi-weekly newspaper column and weekly LinkedIn posts, both titled "The Friday Ficks," provide strategies, tools, and inspiration to stay resourceful and resilient, regardless of the circumstances. Learn more about Carl at www.carlficks.com .
Mon, February 07, 2022
How to Take Control of Your Business and Your Life Featuring Sajad Husain
Sajad Husain is the CEO of Cause and Effect Consulting. He is a persevering, enterprising, and top-performing executive and former attorney with expertise in vision-setting, project oversight, development, and implementation, compliance, internal and external communications, relationship management, legal and policy review, resource, and people-management, community outreach and organizing. He is an analytical and broad-minded influencer focused on solving problems, mediating disputes, and resolving matters to ensure ultimate project success. Sajad is a highly sought-after mentor/coach and sounding board for ideas and key advising. We discuss: The moment Wendy’s turns you down [02:02] A framework to keep you organized and productive [08:17] What other people notice after you’ve taken thousands of tiny steps and pivots [16:30] How to run a business from the road [18:01] Entrepreneurship is a fantasy [19:56] Learn more about Sajad at https://causeandeffectconsulting.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, January 31, 2022
What’s the Worst that Can Happen Featuring Kellan Fluckiger
Kellan Is the Ultimate Catalyst for Personal transformation. Author of 15 books, Creator of the "Ultimate Life Transformation Experience." If you really want to change your results, Kellan's Experience and System will get you there. We discuss: A method to tell your story in a powerful way [02:05] Your power is proportional to your vulnerability [05:19] An unbelievable invitation to change [09:33] Nothing to hide, nothing to fear [11:57] How telling the truth can relieve those who suffer [14:40] What’s the worst thing that could happen if [16:20] An example of putting an end to mediocrity [19:30] Learn more about Kellan at www.kellanfluckiger.com .
Mon, January 24, 2022
Pivoting into a Talent-Centric Business Featuring Carol Schultz
Carol Schultz is a talent equity and leadership coaching and advisory expert, and Founder/CEO at Vertical Elevation. Over the past 29 years, she‘s honed her expertise and formed an intrinsic understanding of successful recruiting and alignment processes. We discuss: The most important department in a company [02:33] People leave managers, not jobs [06:04] The area in which coaching works best [11:41] The one thing that prevents all the councils in the world to help you change [14:19] Don’t be cheap and think you can do it all [18:15] Recognized for her proficiency in corporate leadership, Carol has helped executives gain clarity in their careers, created a culture of performance for their teams, and made bold leadership moves. A firm believer in supporting executives to become more confident leaders, she has advised countless individuals and companies from Pre-Seed stage startups to publicly traded companies. Learn more about Carol at https://verticalelevation.com/ .
Mon, January 17, 2022
Finding Your 5 Whys Featuring Michael Bauman
Michael Bauman is the CEO of Success Engineering, a Tony Robbins certified coach and he helps entrepreneurs feel that they are enough and know they are not alone. He is also the host of the podcast, Success Engineering, where he interviews experts and industry leaders, from Broadway Directors and actors to multi-millionaire CEO’s, to neuroscientists and more to uncover how they define success, how they create it on a daily basis and explore the challenges they have overcome both internally and externally to achieve their personal definition of success. We discuss: The difference between a technician and a business owner [02:54] How to create the feeling of success [04:28] The five whys every entrepreneur should ask themselves [07:55] The different layers of success [11:48] An expert in pain for social disconnection [15:05] How research can help you become an expert in a particular area [18:05] Where to find the best avatar for your first audience [19:47] Making sure your ladder is leaning up against the right building [22:50] Learn more about Michael at www.successengineering.org .
Mon, January 10, 2022
How to Achieve Healthy Revenue Growth Yourself Featuring Darrell Amy
With 27 years of B2B marketing and sales experience ranging from mid-sized local companies to enterprise organizations, Darrell has diverse experience across the sales and marketing landscape. He has trained thousands of salespeople in solution selling, created digital marketing strategies for hundreds of companies, and consulted with Fortune 500 technology companies. He knows what works—and what doesn’t. We discuss: The contrast in feelings when you finally pull the plug [02:17] The moments of anxiety everyone has in their career [06:15] Why it’s more secure to have your own business versus having an employer [08:02] How to become an expert in revenue growth [10:06] How bringing in people with opposite skillsets helps the business scale [14:37] The two numbers every business owner needs to know [20:16] As a member of the Forbes Business Council, Darrell works with executives to create growth strategies. He co-founded Convergo, where he serves as the Chief Innovation Officer, helping companies develop revenue growth strategies. Darrell is the co-founder of the Kingdom Missions Fund, providing resources to innovative Christian missions projects. He also leads the ManAlive EXPEDITION team. Darrell is the host of the Revenue Growth Podcast and the co-host of the Selling From the Heart Podcast. Darrell is a frequent podcast guest, keynote speaker, and contributing author. Learn more about Darrell at https://www.revenuegrowthengine.net/ and LinkedIn .
Mon, January 03, 2022
You Can Decide How You Want to Grow Your Business Featuring Diane Tarshis
Diane Tarshis is a seasoned business advisor and founder of Startup Distillery. Working with entrepreneurs across the US and around the globe, Diane uses her unique mix of finance, retail, manufacturing, and operations experience to help entrepreneurs distill their ideas into profitable, growing businesses. We discuss: Shifting from corporate life to small business life [02:32] A double-edged sword or a fantasy [05:30] A DIY kit for entrepreneurs [07:22] Reasons to write a business plan [11:38] The difference between growth and scaling [13:03] The pressure for growth and scaling [16:38] How to grow a consulting business and still keep it solo [18:20] Learn more about Diane at https://startupdistillery.com/ .
Mon, December 27, 2021
Why You Can Write a Book and Quit Repeating Yourself Featuring Jaime Jay
Jaime Jay is the founder and managing director of Bottleneck Distant Assistants. Founded in 2016, Bottleneck is an outsourcing agency that helps businesses identify, hire, and cultivate their workforce through a carefully designed systematic approach to growth. A veteran US Army paratrooper who received the Army Achievement Medal for Meritorious Service, Jay’s additional business experience includes a twelve-year career in corporate America and advanced education in Business Administration and Management at Florida Institute of Technology. We discuss: Three reasons to write a book other than anything else [03:02] What makes 184 pages much more than new authors think [06:24] A very affordable way about finding a hybrid publisher [09:15] What it feels like going through the different levels of editing [11:18] Thinking about thinking about leadership [13:17] The seven-year itch in business [15:35] The little things that make writing a book worthwhile [17:03] The best way for book authors to get feedback from readers [19:34] How crazy other people’s lives are [21:30] Jaime likes networking with big-picture thinkers and proudly proclaims he is unemployable. In his spare time, he enjoys playing hockey, camping, boating, playing guitar, shooting guns, traveling, and spending time with his wife, Sara. In Quit Repeating Yourself, author Jaime Jay shares how he built a seven-figure business by focusing on the power of creating systems and processes so he could stop doing the wrong things and focus on doing his best work. After other business professionals kept asking him to explain what he was doing differently, Jay compiled his best strategies and systems, hoping readers could learn from his successes and his mistakes. Through personal stories and professional examples, he teaches leaders how to build a strong company foundation using small and actionable steps. Learn more about Jaime at https://bottleneck.online , Instagram , Facebook , LinkedIn and Twitter .
Mon, December 20, 2021
How to Create Personal Brand Clarity Featuring Suzanne Tulien
With over two and a half decades of strategic communication, employee brand engagement, and internal brand development, Suzanne’s inside-out brand-building strategy creates the clarity and actions necessary for her clients to drive consistency, distinction, and advocacy long-term. We discuss: The many expectations of a logo [02:24] A framework that helps you say “no” [06:45] What marketers miss when they’re out there marketing [09:37] The good and the bad news about personal brands [12:02] The misalignment between consultants and their prospects [15:22] Clarity is the basis of action [18:38] Because her Brand DNA approach is radically different, she is paving the way companies and personal brands elevate their value position and actually reduce marketing costs while growing market share. As author of The 6 Myths of Small Business Branding and co-author of Brand DNA; Uncover Your Organization’s Genetic Code to Competitive Advantage, also published in China and her newest book; Personal Brand Clarity, Identify, Define & Align to What You Want to Be Known For, she is helping to pave the transformational highway to grow by conscious, strategic design; not by DEFAULT! Learn more about Suzanne at www.BrandAscension.com .
Mon, December 13, 2021
Should You Write Your Own Copy? Featuring Gio Marcus
Gio Marcus is copywriting mentor who teaches high-converting copy to entrepreneurs who want to reach millions and make millions. We discuss: How to become your brand’s own best copywriter [02:32] A copy that’s more than a static set of words on a page [05:51] What makes people bolder in their copywriting [07:06] The first thing to do to get your copy generating revenue immediately [10:12] The price of effectively communicating your value [11:51] The missing element in LinkedIn [16:37] The basis of every great movie, novel or TV commercial [17:09] How to show the reader that you understand them [19:11] Gio’s copywriting clients are guests of Oprah, Marie Forleo & Sir Richard Branson; regularly featured on major TV shows and magazines, stars of their own Netflix documentaries, and winners of Oscars nominations for their health documentaries. Between them, Gio’s clients have written over 35 New York Times bestselling books, translated into 190 languages. She lives in Berkeley, California. Learn more about Gio at https://giomarcus.com .
Mon, December 06, 2021
How to Overcome Your Avoidance of Public Speaking Featuring Tom Bailey
Tom Bailey is the founder of Succeed Through Speaking and he spent the first 25 years of his life becoming an expert at AVOIDING public speaking, presenting and being in front of groups of people. However, since overcoming his life-limiting fear of speaking and presenting he has experienced first-hand how people can succeed through speaking. He now helps other Entrepreneurs, Experts, Coaches and Consultants use speaking to raise their profile and gain new clients. We discuss: An expert at avoiding public speaking [02:19] How the fear of speaking is hurting your personal and professional life [04:37] The wrong decisions that keep you in your comfort zone [05:59] Confidence comes from competence [09:44] How to use speaking as a platform to attract more clients [11:41] The five P’s that help experts be great at speaking [13:00] How to increase the visibility of someone who is hiding behind the brand [16:01] How to connect the dots between speaking and business [17:36] Why you should never say you’re the greatest speaker in the world [20:50] Learn more about Tom at https://www.succeedthroughspeaking.com .
Mon, November 29, 2021
Turning Your Words into Wealth Wisdom and Wonder Featuring Aurora Winter
Aurora Winter is an award-winning, bestselling author. She is a successful serial entrepreneur, media trainer, creator of the Spoken Author™ method, and founder of Same Page Publishing. We discuss: Leveraging the number 3 search engine [02:00] The secret to producing hundreds of podcast episodes [03:39] How the Spoken Author method helps non-writers fill in the blank page [05:29] Those who tell the stories rule society [09:18] How to add significance to your stories [11:21] The essence of a person gathered in a wave form [13:37] The distance between a good communicator and a great one [16:21] The neuroscience behind communication [17:34] The worst way to make a million dollars with a book [20:17] Learn more about Aurora at www.aurorawinter.com .
Mon, November 22, 2021
What Chess Can Teach Us About Being Prepared For The Unexpected Featuring Evan Rabin
Evan Rabin was born and raised in New York. After working in Corporate America, doing enterprise sales at Oracle and Rapid 7, he formed Premier Chess in September 2017. Premier Chess currently runs programs in 80+ schools and companies including the law firm Kramer Levin. He is a US Chess National Master. We discuss: What it means to be analytical in sales [02:09] Why entrepreneurs don’t make good fits as employees [06:09] The most important prerequisite to run a chess company [07:56] What made Evan start the sales company first [11:22] Learning business and life lessons through chess [13:24] The speed we need to go through an unexpected situation [15:35] Why players should not let a domino effect happen [18:13] How to use unexpected situations to your advantage [19:41] Learn more about Evan at https:// www.premierchess.com .
Mon, November 15, 2021
How to Grow a Conscious Business Authentically Featuring Terri Maxwell
Terri Maxwell is the Founder and CEO of Share On Purpose, Inc, a business cultivator that created six innovative brands using her Conscious Business Growth Platform™. She also started a Speculator Fund to invest in social ventures focused on making the world better. In an entrepreneurial career that spans almost 30 years, Terri has launched, owned, sold, rebranded, or turned around more than 50 brands. Her latest concept is https://shiftco.global/ a business growth platform for conscious entrepreneurs. We discuss: Using teaching skills to build a successful salesforce [02:58] How to make the world better and make money at the same time [04:05] Truly [in]authentic business growth techniques [06:56] The four F’s: authentic demand generation [09:29] A powerful story of nineteen criminals [13:33] The most authentic parts of the world in terms of entrepreneurship [15:31] The purchasing power of millennials turning the tide [17:35] Learn more about Terri at LinkedIn .
Mon, November 08, 2021
How Client Loyalty Accelerates Profitability Featuring Lynn Thomas
Lynn is a tax attorney-turned consultant who finds innovative and novel ways to create fiercely loyal clients and employees. As employees uncover their untapped potential, they become deeply engaged and excel at delighting customers. Consequently, these businesses achieve higher levels of profits, growth, and retention! We discuss: Organizations that [don’t] care about their employees [02:14] The obstacles that stand in the way of a change agent [05:46] How to see the answers that are right in front of us [07:36] Why disruption is not a measure in the financials [10:40] The employees you can’t overwhelm [16:43] What happens when senior managers don’t talk to customers [19:18] Learn more about Lynn at https://www.thomasconsultingwins.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, November 01, 2021
How to Sell Your Consulting Ecommerce Business Featuring Ben Leonard
Best known as the founder of Beast Gear, Ben Leonard is the classic millennial entrepreneur. He built a business on a laptop, in a cupboard, in his spare time. The difference? Ben grew an international 7-figure business and successfully exited after 3 years which is the business holy grail. Now Ben is doing it all over again and helping others to do the same with his ecommerce consultancy and ecommerce brokerage. We discuss: How to sell the business when you’re the business [02:38] Less about you and more about the transformation [05:30] The fear of productizing knowledge [07:16] The mistake consultants do when creating a subscription model [11:37] Main measures of business performance [16:31] Why everybody knows who the owner of Tesla is [19:09] Learn more about Ben at https://www.ecombrokers.co.uk and LinkedIn .
Mon, October 25, 2021
Relationship Building as a Daily and Multi-Year Process Featuring Paul Sherman
Paul Sherman is a dynamic C-suite leader with finance, strategy, operations excellence, customer success, and business development experience in healthcare services and technology, commercial real estate and multi-unit restaurants. We discuss: The basics of relationship-building [02:52] The givers, takers and exchangers [4:58] The fine line between helping for free and helping for money [6:23] Not a template of questions but a natural flow [07:45] What adds more meaning to being a solopreneur [12:32] What your grandma wants to know about your business [14:34] What keeps your ideal clients awake at night [17:43] The person that says “no” most of the time [19:20] He has operated in PE, public and family-owned companies. Paul has a passion for developing talent, professionalize and transform highly motivated teams to exceed expectations. Learn more about Paul at LinkedIn .
Mon, October 18, 2021
Celebrating 600 Episodes of Smashing the Plateau with Chris Weller
Chris Weller is an award-winning storytelling expert. He's the co-creator and producer of the Netflix Original Documentary "Spelling the Dream," an Ironman triathlete, and a crossword puzzle aficionado. He is currently a senior editor at Insider, overseeing coverage that explores the human side of work and business. We discuss: The time when podcasts were not even a thing [05:03] The impression that consistence creates [08:11] The evolution of audio on demand [11:30] Why content creators don’t have to be everywhere [15:33] Spelling the dream with the spelling bee [18:20] The value of looking for intersections [20:40] Learn more about Chris at LinkedIn .
Mon, October 11, 2021
How to Prepare, Position and Promote Your Mid-Career Pivot Featuring John Neral
John Neral helps mid-career professionals prepare, position, and promote who they are and what they do, so they can SHOW UP to find a job they love or love the job they have. He's the author of the newly published book "Your Mid-Career GPS - Four Steps to Figuring Out What's Next." He and his spouse are the proud parents of a rescue cat named, "Amy Farrah Meowler" named after their love of the show, the Big Bang Theory. We discuss: The fear of being stuck [02:44] What to do with your unique professional value [04:32] The people we hurt when we don’t make our offers [09:32] No place is a party [12:54] The role of a coach for planning a coaching career [16:18] The things that make the coaching fit easy [19:11] The most fascinating part of the career journey [22:55] Learn more about John at https://johnneral.com , LinkedIn , Facebook and Instagram .
Mon, October 04, 2021
How to Get Clients, Confidence and Cash Featuring Christy Metcalf
Christy Metcalf helps women rewrite their story from former corporate yes girl to successful entrepreneur on their terms. We discuss: The problem with being conditioned to our 1% salary increase [02:13] The key to sticking to your value [06:01] Why McDonald’s don’t sell tacos [10:28] Nobody knows who you are [12:23] How to deal with the fear of showing up [16:28] Money is all around if you’re willing to ask for it [19:05] Riding the bike to make yourself successful [22:31] A reformed yes girl, people pleaser, and workaholic she made the leap from corporate employee to successful entrepreneur two decades ago, and now she helps other women do the same thing. Now she uses that same winning framework to educate and support new female entrepreneurs as they step into their new role as CEO and rewrite their story. Learn more about Christy at www.2smartgirls.com , LinkedIn and Facebook .
Mon, September 27, 2021
How to Align Your Passion, Expertise and a Market Need Featuring Dan Bennett
Dan Bennett was born and raised in the gritty city of Flint, MI. He is the Founder of 1 Minute Media, a company that empowers individuals to tell their stories with great video through coursework and private membership. He is also a digital media freelancer who offers direct consultation for companies as well as decades of experience in video production, video editing, motion graphics, sound design, graphic design and digital content development. We discuss: Back and forth between left and right side of the brain [02:24] The love of creativity and newfound energy [05:06] Take the wheel and see what happens [08:52] The great band-aid rip of 2020 [11:19] The medicine in the cheese [16:34] Accidents that work out pretty good [19:09] The members that don’t pay you anymore [20:55] Learn more about Dan at https://imtheantipreneur.com/linkstack .
Mon, September 20, 2021
You Don’t Have to Be Ruthless Featuring Jonathan Keyser
Jonathan Keyser is the founder of Keyser, one of the largest independent, occupier services commercial real estate firms in the country. Additionally, Keyser is a founding member of EXIS Global, the largest independent, commercial real estate organization in the world committed to exclusively representing corporate end users. We discuss: Changing the mechanics of a whole industry [02:45] The universe can’t handle an imbalance [06:35] Why you should start using the L word in business [09:08] Reinvention from the inside out [12:26] The biggest accountability mechanism [16:26] Just a commercial real estate guy from Arizona having a dream [21:58] Jonathan focuses his efforts on changing the business world through selfless service and his efforts manifest in his content and thought leadership. He was named "The Commercial Real Estate Disruptor" by USA Today, a #1 Multi-Category Best Selling Author on Amazon and the Wall Street Journal for his book, “You Don’t Have to be Ruthless to Win”. He is a frequent keynote speaker, a thought leader featured on over 150 articles, publications, and podcasts, and is recognized as one of the Top 20 Virtual Keynote Speakers in the country. Learn more about Jonathan at www.keyser.com and https://ruthlessbook.com/ .
Mon, September 13, 2021
Your Business Should Not Be Running You Featuring David Crysler
David Crysler is the founder of the Crysler Club and host of the Everyday Business Problems Podcast. Having spent nearly 20 years working for a publicly traded corporation that grew through acquisition provided Dave with the opportunity to grow several different businesses during his career. We discuss: A different way for small business owners to build a business [02:24] What large corporations do best [06:46] The four pillars of scaling [09:53] The common problems that trading and manufacturing businesses have [11:00] How to deal with the fear of laying out cash for some help [15:16] How to differentiate yourself in a field with a low barrier to entry [17:36] Shifting from working in your business to working on your business [21:33] Entering entrepreneurship, Dave quickly realized there was a tremendous need within small businesses to have access to the tools and support that were commonplace in a large corporation. It was during this time Dave developed his operations framework that he uses to solve everyday problems and free business owners from working in their business so it can grow. Learn more about David at https://thecrysler.club , LinkedIn , Twitter and Facebook .
Mon, September 06, 2021
A Subscription Model for a Legal Practice Featuring Scott Reib
As the official Zig Ziglar Small Business Lawyer and a Ziglar Legacy Certified Trainer, it’s no wonder that Scott Reib is known as “America’s Legal Coach.” For the last two decades, Scott has been helping business owners, entrepreneurs, and coaches “shatterproof” their businesses by implementing specific strategies for structure, growth, and protection. Over the last three years, Scott has been sharing these strategies with business owners and coaches, and watching them grow and succeed! We discuss: The beginning of all of the subscriptions we see nowadays [02:10] How to [not] lose your Friday [04:14] The pep talk you need to give yourself before a sales call [06:10] The signs telling you to hire a business coach [08:44] Different coaches for different seasons of life [11:10] Helping businesses grow in a protected way [13:26] What business owners don’t know what they don’t know about getting an LLC [15:02] The issues in front of multistate entrepreneurs [18:35] The death of the billable hour [20:08] Learn more about Scott at https://reiblaw.com/ .
Mon, August 30, 2021
Maximize Your Relationships with Your Income Sources Featuring Gary Ireland
Gary Ireland helps executives in transition to maximize income and benefits when joining a company and enhance severance and asserting rights when they’re leaving. Gary has helped many clients in financial services, banking, law, media, technology and higher education, among other fields. He also works with start-ups. We discuss: The best thing about employment law [01:26] A relationship is a two-way street [04:56] An [im]proper way to terminate a relationship [06:36] Becoming a consultant to your former employer [10:20] Creative solutions for maximizing profit and employee engagement [13:58] Everybody that’s around an employee [15:35] Best in something but still out of work [17:06] Who are the most successful individuals [19:25] The skills that help you prevail [21:24] Learn more about Gary at http://irelandlaw.net .
Mon, August 23, 2021
How to Become Forever Employable Featuring Jeff Gothelf
Jeff helps organizations build better products and executives build the cultures that build better products. Through the use of concepts like Design Thinking, Lean UX and agile software development he brings a new approach to running organizations and the departments within them, most recently focusing on Human Resources and how they can be more agile as well as support agility in the organization. We discuss: Giving up on a dream of becoming a famous rock musician [02:12] Life was good until 2008 happened [04:11] Adventures in becoming forever employable [07:51] How to take your power back in the job hunt [09:38] How to create a career safety net [11:50] Planting your flag: experience, expertise and passion [12:23] Opportunities to solve a problem and become a thought leader [14:24] What happens in Vegas, stays in Vegas [20:27] Learn more about Jeff at https://jeffgothelf.com/ .
Mon, August 16, 2021
Why Improv is a Business Technique Featuring Bob Kulhan
Bob Kulhan is an elite improviser, an adjunct professor at Duke Fuqua B-School, author of ‘GETTING TO YES AND’, and the Founder & CEO of Business Improv® – a 22-yr-old consultancy linking improvisation to business through behavioral sciences and ROI for blue-chip companies. BI is a world-class leader in experiential On-Site, Virtual (synchronous), Online (asynchronous), Blended (both), and Open Enrollment programs. We discuss: The human on the other side of the transaction [01:59] A Sherpa’s level of customer devotion [04:00] Bridging the gap between two cultures [06:55] What it feels like to be thrilled at the core [10:09] How coaches and consultants can improve their customer experience [11:30] The weight of a long-term business relationship [14:08] The benefit of having different custom segments [15:17] Why it’s important to serve the customer earlier in their journey [17:43] Why a client gravitates towards a particular coach or consultant [19:27] Learn more about Bob at www.BusinessImprov.com and LinkedIn .
Mon, August 09, 2021
Creating Great Customer Experiences Featuring Vinay Raval
Ten years ago, Vinay left his corporate job to learn more about how businesses can grow by uplifting the lives of their customers. He crisscrossed the world and drew insight from large corporations, far-flung markets, mountain Sherpas, and street vendors. These experiences inspired a unique approach to customer experience that he then put to the test as an entrepreneur in Cusco, Peru. Now back in New York, Vinay teaches his system through social media, coaching, and online courses through his business, GrowthWallah. We discuss: The human on the other side of the transaction [01:59] A Sherpa’s level of customer devotion [04:00] Bridging the gap between two cultures [06:55] What it feels to be thrilled at the core [10:09] How coaches and consultants can improve their customer experience [11:30] The weight of a long-term business relationship [14:08] The benefit of having different custom segments [15:17] Why it’s important to serve the customer earlier in their journey [17:43] The most critical reason why a client gravitates towards a particular coach or consultant [19:27] Learn more about Vinay at www.growthwallah.com and Instagram .
Mon, August 02, 2021
Bulletproof Selling Featuring Shawn Rhodes
Shawn Rhodes leveraged his former life as a war correspondent to become an international expert in how the best teams continuously improve pipelines and performance. We discuss: Imagine a college professor that can’t be fired [01:43] Starting off with a complete beginner’s mind [03:37] A pitch that doesn’t work well on anybody [04:40] The effect of doing things consistently [06:00] Repeatable systems with a focus on the sales system [08:18] Hope is not a sales strategy [09:56] How to begin long-term relationship cycles [11:50] Strategies to own the next step in the conversation [15:47] The idea of feast or famine to keep the pipeline full [17:55] The beauty of building systems [20:49] He's a Tampa-based TEDx speaker and his work studying teams in more than two dozen countries - some the most dangerous places on the planet - has been published in news outlets including TIME, CNN, NBC, Forbes, the Wall Street Journal and INC. Shawn is also a nationally-syndicated columnist with the Business Journals and author of Bulletproof Selling: Systemizing Sales for The Battlefield of Business. Learn more about Shawn at www.bulletproof-selling.com .
Mon, July 26, 2021
When to Say No as a Business Coach Featuring David Lakin
David Lakin is a retired Navy Chief, licensed PMP, Lean Six Sigma Green Belt, Executive Coach, and CEO of Acacia Business Solutions. We discuss: The impact of a half a lifetime of being in the Navy [01:32] How to figure out what your specialty is going to be [05:17] A good give-and-take relationship [07:58] The people that do not fit your cookie cutter [09:28] The traits person that becomes the business owner [11:55] Walking away when someone waves a roll of cash in front of you [14:31] It’s not a profit problem but a spending problem [16:11] Your time is your cash account [19:00] The appropriate way to choose and hire a coach [20:56] He helps CEOs and their Executive Teams achieve exponential growth through Strategic Thinking and Organizational Planning, helping them grow in multiples rather than small percentage increases. Learn more about David at https://acacia-solutions.com/ , LinkedIn and Facebook .
Mon, July 19, 2021
How to Earn More While Working Less Featuring Nadine & Derek Nicholson
Nadine & Derek Nicholson help passionate, high-achieving consultants and service professionals boldly earn more while working less so that they can free up their time for what matters. We discuss: How a married couple joins forces for a career transition [02:04] How to measure what matters most [05:57] How stepping into self-leadership helps you get unstuck [08:10] The reason why the say-do gap is plateauing your revenue [13:58] The very key that will have you boldly multiply your earning [21:02] They've distilled their 60 years of collective business and leadership experience building their own 7-figure company, running over $10M+ corporate portfolios, and leading giant teams of people into an approach that teaches you how to confidently sell and deliver high-value offerings, while mastering your time and building your high-performance team. Learn more about Nadine and Derek at https://ascendleadership.com/ .
Mon, July 12, 2021
What Consultants Can Learn from Standup Comedians Featuring David Nihill
David Nihill is a Bestselling author, TED featured speaker, award winning comedian and storyteller and “One of the best speaking coaches out there” according to Forbes.com. We discuss: Why going on your own requires you to analyze and tell your story [02:40] Clues to give the right presentation to the right audience [04:44] Why comedians are the true masters of public speaking [07:48] The key difference in reactions you get in a comedy club versus in a keynote speech [09:57] How having the last say can save a public speaker’s life [13:02] If it’s embarrassing to you, it’s funny to me [16:24] Don’t rule out anything too small [20:43] Learn more about David at https://davidnihill.com/ .
Mon, July 05, 2021
Consulting Success is Iterative Featuring Tony Rose
Tony Rose is a founding partner of Rose, Snyder & Jacobs. In addition to helping entrepreneurs and high-net-worth families with tax-minimization strategies for asset growth and protection, Tony also helps his clients more effectively grow their financial capital by enriching their human, intellectual, social and structural capitals. We discuss: Quick bits of consultant wisdom [03:30] The power of social capital [05:10] The one thought that can make a difference [07:16] Why a great solo career starts off by being a great employee first [11:48] How to know if you’ve waited too long to get started [14:50] Most people are nice [16:46] Tony is the author of “Five Eyes on the Fence: Protecting the Five Core Capitals of Your Business” and “Say Hello to the Elephants”. Through counseling and leading multidisciplinary teams of professionals, Tony has provided valuable guidance at the point where life intersects wealth. Learn more about Tony at https://www.rsjcpa.com/ and www.gettonysbook.com . Brief Description of Gift A free copy of Tony’s ebook Say Hello to the Elephants URL for Free Gift www.gettonysbook.com
Mon, June 28, 2021
How Consultants Can Shake Off Their Corporate Veneer Featuring Sophia Sunwoo
Sophia Sunwoo is a 3x entrepreneur who sold her first business at 22, growing it to 250 major retailers worldwide before her exit. Her second business fixed broken water systems in India and Cameroon, securing clean water for over 80,000 people. Sophia is currently the founder of Ascent Strategy, where she creates moneymaking brands with women entrepreneurs who refuse to settle for mediocre. Sophia is a Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree and was named one of the world’s 100 most inspiring women by Salt Magazine and Diageo. We discuss: From bored college kids to successfully empowered women [02:09] A business model based on personal values [07:08] How to remove the corporate veneer and step into yourself [09:17] The transition after you can’t hide anymore [12:47] LinkedIn as a mental representation of hitting all layers of vulnerability and visibility [14:40] How to prepare for clients outside your network [17:18] How to be strategic about the different upgrades of your business [19:19] Learn more about Sophia at www.ascent-strategy.com and Instagram . Brief Description of Gift A free sales challenge that will help you make more sales in five days; A free business tune-up checklist URL for Free Gift www.ascent-strategy.com/startgear
Mon, June 21, 2021
How to Get Good ROI from Your Book Featuring Laura Gale
Laura Gale is a ghostwriter who helps entrepreneurs share their experience and legacy to grow their audience and their business. She has worked with entrepreneurs from all over the world and is a bestselling author herself. We discuss: How to listen to the market place [01:23] How to make yourself a really obvious choice [04:16] When to [not] use the services of a ghostwriter [05:05] The two halves of the book-selling process [08:48] The ideal time to spend on creating and benefiting from a book [10:45] Why some consultants and coaches have anxiety around hiring a ghostwriter [13:35] How much a first-time author should think about investing in producing a book 15:32] How to get a really good return on investment on your book [17:05] A space in your schedule and attitude for serendipity to happen [19:56] Learn more about Laura at www.lauraiswriting.com .
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