Strategy + Action
This show was built to be the ultimate resource for expert coaches and consultants like you to build your brand, grab the attention you deserve, and break out of the murky waters of sameness. You'll learn how the top consultants are growing their businesses and get access to the latest tools and resources so you can save your time and energy for doing the work that matters - serving your clients. Welcome to Strategy + Action.
Thu, July 25, 2024
Ep98 Priscilla McKinney - Competition Is Killing Your Business. Start Collaborating for Massive Success
In this insightful episode, host Jason Croft and his guest Priscilla McKinney dive deep into the power of collaboration. They break down the three essential elements that make true collaboration work - having something to win and lose, openly sharing goals, and a genuine desire to achieve a win-win. Priscilla shares candid stories and actionable tips on letting go of the competition mindset. She illustrates how an abundance mindset allows businesses and individuals to exponentially grow through collaboration. Jason and Priscilla discuss strategies for coaches, consultants, and small businesses to find and approach ideal collaborators. They explore creative ways to unite with competitors and companies for mutual benefit. From launching successful cross-promotions to hosting joint events, you'll discover tactics to collaborate without compromising trade secrets. Priscilla's three-step framework will shift your perspective on competitors. You'll learn to view them as potential partners in achieving grand visions neither could accomplish alone. If you're tired of competing and ready to embrace the power of collaboration, don't miss this conversation-changing episode. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/98
Wed, July 17, 2024
Ep97 Bill Kenney - The Power of Perception: Brand is Your Strongest B2B Lever
B2B branding isn't boring - it's a goldmine waiting to be tapped. In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Bill Kenney, CEO of Focus Lab and Odi, to explore the often misunderstood world of B2B branding. Bill shares his journey from small-town art kid to brand agency founder, working with tech companies from seed stage to IPO. He breaks down why branding matters, especially in the B2B space where many companies are afraid to stand out. Jason and Bill dive into: • Why brand is more than just a logo - it's the North Star of your organization • The hidden value of branding that can't be measured in short-term ROI • How MailChimp's quirky brand led to a $12 billion acquisition by Intuit • Why even "boring" B2B companies need to inject personality into their brand • The long-term compounding effects of investing in your brand Through real-world examples and personal anecdotes, Bill makes a compelling case for why B2B companies can't afford to ignore branding. He explains how a strong brand aligns your team, attracts talent, and helps you connect with customers on a human level. Jason pushes the conversation further, exploring the challenges of measuring brand impact and why many companies struggle to justify the investment. Together, they break down complex branding concepts into actionable insights for businesses of all sizes. Whether you're a tech startup founder or a seasoned B2B marketer, this episode will change how you think about your company's brand. Don't miss out on this deep dive into the power of B2B branding. Find all the show notes and links here: https://www.strategyactionshow.com/97
Tue, May 28, 2024
Ep96 Fred Barber - The Suburbs are Killing You (Here's How to Escape)
In this eye-opening episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Fred Barber, author of the groundbreaking book "Lifescapes," to discuss how the suburban lifestyle is slowly killing Americans – and what you can do about it. Fred reveals shocking statistics, like how sitting for long hours can lead to dementia, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. He explains how the sedentary suburban lifestyle, where you have to drive everywhere, is worse for your health than smoking. But it's not just physical health at risk. Fred shares how social isolation in the suburbs is fueling an epidemic of loneliness in America. 22% of adults feel socially isolated, and the number with 5 or more close friends keeps dropping. The solution? Fred lays out a step-by-step plan for empty nesters and pre-retirees to escape the deadly suburbs. By downsizing to a smaller, cheaper home in a walkable urban area, you can: - Cut your housing costs by over 50% - Slash property taxes by 60% - Eliminate lawn care and maintenance costs - Build a vibrant social life in "third places" like coffee shops and dog parks - Rack up 10,000 steps a day just living your normal life Fred and Jason dive deep into the financial benefits of this "semi-nomadic lifestyle." Fred shares how he freed up thousands of dollars per month by moving. He explains how to calculate the true cost of living in different areas, factoring in state income and property taxes. But this episode is about way more than just numbers. Fred and Jason explore how relationships, physical health, and even political engagement can flourish in walkable communities. Whether you're an empty nester, young couple, or solo adventurer, this episode will inspire you to totally rethink your lifestyle and living situation. Fred shares tons of free and low-cost resources, including: - A database of 700 walkable neighborhoods at lifescapes.info - A system to rank neighborhoods based on your unique priorities - A model to estimate your tax savings in different states - Tips for "trying out" a new neighborhood before moving If you're fed up with the lonely, sedentary suburban lifestyle, this is a must-listen. Fred Barber will open your eyes to a totally new way of living - one that's healthier, happier, and much better for your bank account.
Thu, May 23, 2024
Ep95 Reagan Cannon - How Relational Courage Helps Women Break Through to Executive Leadership
If you're a woman feeling stuck in your corporate career, this episode is a must-listen. Reagan Cannon, former Amazon and AT&T executive turned entrepreneur, gets brutally honest about why so many talented women get left behind on the climb to the C-suite. The reason? A lack of what Reagan calls "relational courage." After leading a nationwide research study on the barriers holding women back from executive roles, Reagan discovered that women often wait for confidence before taking action. But true courage is about "taking action in the face of your fears." In a conversation packed with insights from her 20-year corporate career, Reagan shares the crucial mindset shifts and practical strategies that help women break through to senior leadership: - How to get recognized for your results (hint: it's not just about doing great work) - Why building your reputation and relationships is just as important as your skill set - The underrated power of lifting others up as you climb - How to get clear on your "why" and redefine your identity as a leader Considering making the leap from corporate to entrepreneurship? Reagan's been there and has some advice: There's no "elegant off-ramp." At some point, you have to muster the courage to "cut across traffic and leave." But here's the good news: Many of the skills you honed in the corporate world - leadership, communication, and managing at scale - are actually your secret weapons as an entrepreneur. The key is transferring those skills to your new context with an experimental mindset. Knowing that "what you think will work, won't - and what you think won't work, will." Host Jason Croft drives the conversation forward with insightful questions that dig beneath the surface, while also sharing his own hard-won wisdom on the parallels between rising in the corporate ranks and succeeding as an entrepreneur. This episode will light a motivating fire under any woman who's ready to take her career to the next level - whether that's a coveted executive role or an entrepreneurial venture. Tune in now and let Reagan show you how to cultivate your relational courage and unleash your true leadership potential.
Thu, March 14, 2024
Ep94 Clay Hicks - The Mindset Shift To Change How You Think About Networking Forever
What if we told you the key to scaling your business is not complicated marketing tactics or big budgets, but simple human connection? In this captivating episode, Jason Croft sits down with Clay Hicks, the founder of H7 - a rapidly expanding B2B networking platform with members in 45 states, as well as Canada, Australia, England, Croatia, El Salvador, Columbia, Philippines, Italy, and India. Clay shares the powerful mindset shift that allowed him to grow from a single location in Cincinnati to a nationwide phenomenon, all through intentional networking and word-of-mouth. You'll discover his deceptively simple "Connect, Serve, and Ask" philosophy that has members lining up to be a part of the H7 movement. Learn how asking thoughtful questions, serving others first, and having the humility to ask for help created a community of champions who propelled Clay's vision forward. Forget the outdated "follow the rules" networking approach - this fresh perspective will make you rethink everything you thought you knew about building relationships that fuel real business growth. Whether you're an entrepreneur, consultant, or simply looking to level up your networking game, you'll love this conversation with Clay. Grab a pen and get ready to be inspired by Clay's infectious enthusiasm and the remarkable results of living out timeless principles with unwavering commitment.
Thu, February 22, 2024
Ep93 Chad E. Foster - Building Resiliency and What to Do With It
What if your biggest setback was actually your biggest advantage? In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with Chad E. Foster, a man who refused to be defined by his circumstances. Diagnosed with a condition that left him blind by the age of 21, Chad's story could have been one of despair. Instead, it's a narrative of triumph, a journey from victim to visionary. Chad doesn't just share his story; he dissects the very fabric of resilience, offering listeners a blueprint to forge their own path through adversity. Jason Croft draws out the essence of Chad's message, making it accessible and actionable for everyone. Whether you're a leader looking to inspire your team, an individual facing your own set of challenges, or simply someone who loves a story of triumph against the odds, this episode is for you. Chad's insights are not just theoretical; they are forged in the crucible of real-life challenges. From his decision to attend Harvard Business School to his success in the corporate world and his impactful work as a speaker and author, Chad embodies the message he shares. His book, "Blind Ambition," is not just a memoir; it's a manual for anyone looking to build resilience in their own lives. This episode of Strategy + Action is an invitation to challenge your limits, step out of your comfort zone, and transform your life's toughest moments into your greatest victories. Join Jason and Chad as they explore what it means to truly live a resilient life. Dive into this episode for a journey that promises not just to inspire but to equip you with the tools to navigate your own challenges with grace, strength, and unwavering determination.
Sat, February 17, 2024
Ep92 Becky Jolly - Outsourcing Your Social While Maintaining Your Brand Voice
One of the biggest challenges in outsourcing your social media content or your client's content is keeping your "voice" when someone else is creating it. In this information-packed episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft digs deep with entrepreneur Becky Jolly on the ins and outs of outsourcing social media and content creation. Jason sets the stage by asking Becky about her journey into social media marketing and how she "found" herself as an entrepreneur after discovering a knack, passion, and talent for crafting branded content. Becky then dives into the nitty gritty of what to look for when bringing on a social media consultant, stressing the importance of finding someone who takes full ownership and has a clear onboarding process mapped out. Jason asks thoughtful questions about maintaining brand voice and personality when outsourcing, which Becky addresses by highlighting her tactics of deeply researching each client and shaping voice collaboratively. They also dig into the importance of remembering that even in the B2B (Business to Business) world that Becky does a lot of work in, it's critical for the businesses and anyone creating content for them that it's still all about Humans to Humans. The most effective B2B marketing appeals to the people within an organization rather than treating that company as just an entity. Other topics Jason and Becky explore include the value of improvisational skills in content creation, establishing formulas and structures to spark creativity, putting "anchor points" in your schedule to boost productivity, and more. Becky also outlines ideal customer profiles for her agency and directs listeners to her website to learn more. Whether you're considering outsourcing social media or simply want an inside look at how it works, don't miss this engaging back-and-forth between Jason Croft and social media expert Becky Jolly.
Fri, January 12, 2024
Outsourcing Your Social While Maintaining Your Voice - Becky Jolly | Strategy + Action
One of the biggest challenges in outsourcing your social media content or your client's content is keeping your "voice" when someone else is creating it. In this information-packed episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft digs deep with entrepreneur Becky Jolly on the ins and outs of outsourcing social media and content creation. Jason sets the stage by asking Becky about her journey into social media marketing and how she "found" herself as an entrepreneur after discovering a knack, passion, and talent for crafting branded content. Becky then dives into the nitty-gritty of what to look for when bringing on a social media consultant, stressing the importance of finding someone who takes full ownership and has a clear onboarding process mapped out. Jason asks thoughtful questions about maintaining brand voice and personality when outsourcing, which Becky addresses by highlighting her tactics of deeply researching each client and shaping voice collaboratively. They also dig into the importance of remembering that even in the B2B (Business to Business) world that Becky does a lot of work in, it's critical for the businesses and anyone creating content for them that it's still all about Humans to Humans. The most effective B2B marketing appeals to the people within an organization rather than treating that company as just an entity. Other topics Jason and Becky explore include the value of improvisational skills in content creation, establishing formulas and structures to spark creativity, putting "anchor points" in your schedule to boost productivity, and more. Becky also outlines ideal customer profiles for her agency and directs listeners to her website to learn more. Whether you're considering outsourcing social media or simply want an inside look at how it works, don't miss this engaging back-and-forth between Jason Croft and social media expert Becky Jolly.
Tue, November 07, 2023
Ep91 Deborah Southgate - Overcome Your Biggest Challenges (Turn Them Into Projects)
In this insightful episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft has an in-depth conversation with Deborah Southgate about applying project management principles to personal development. Jason sets the stage by sharing how he met Deborah in the Brand Builders Group community and was impressed by her unique approach to coaching people through major life changes. Deborah then shares her powerful personal story of reaching a low point in her late twenties when her health, relationships, and work-life were all unraveling. After realizing she needed to take control, Deborah drew on her professional project management skills and began viewing her personal growth as a project with defined goals and action steps. This allowed her to methodically work through getting her health back on track, starting a business, meeting her husband, and finding happiness again. Jason does an excellent job guiding the discussion and drawing out the details of Deborah's "Project You" methodology. He highlights how it provides helpful structure while still being customized for each person's unique goals. Deborah explains the step-by-step process, from initiating the project and setting goals to developing a realistic plan, managing risks, tracking progress, and celebrating wins along the way. This is a fascinating conversation about an innovative approach to personal development that could help many feel "unstuck" and make meaningful progress in their lives.
Wed, October 18, 2023
Ep90 Nick Kennedy - The Audacity to be Successful
Welcome to Episode 90 of "Strategy + Action" with your host, Jason Croft. In this captivating interview, we dive deep into the incredible entrepreneurial journey of the remarkable Nick Kennedy. In the first half of this power-packed podcast, Nick shares his awe-inspiring journey, starting very simply as a college student selling pancakes out of his dorm room. A keen problem solver from the outset, Nick realized he could create solutions and help others along the way. He takes us through his remarkable trajectory, from being part of a company that sold a check-in kiosk business for eight figures to launching and selling a thriving private plane subscription service company, Rise. However, Nick's journey doesn't stop at entrepreneurship; it's just the beginning. Discover how he transitioned into executive coaching for CEOs, where he helps leaders not only confront their emotions but also focus on personal and professional growth. Nick's insightful take on leadership is that it's not just about external strategies but, even more importantly, about understanding one's own emotions and being introspective to make a positive impact on the world. In the second part of this engaging interview, Nick delves into the critical role of a coach and the profound value of having someone guide you through your challenges. He differentiates between offering advice to friends and coaching clients, highlighting how clients are more likely to heed advice due to the financial investment they've made. Nick shares a personal anecdote about his collaboration with Jason to create the transformative "Seven-day Audacity Challenge." This challenge revolves around making audacious decisions to drive personal growth. It's a journey of empowerment and self-discovery that Nick believes is essential to unlocking one's full potential. The interview further emphasizes the pivotal importance of having a coach or mentor who can challenge you, helping you navigate both your personal life and your career. Nick's firm belief in the power of audacity and taking calculated risks is evident throughout the discussion as he draws on his own life experiences. Nick Kennedy goes on to describe his coaching practice, focusing primarily on "tip-of-the-spear" leaders, individuals who are responsible for their organization's payroll. His services extend to one-on-one coaching and a remarkable group coaching program, the "Kennedy Leadership Program." In addition to his coaching services, Nick generously offers a treasure trove of free resources, including his informative newsletter, transformative courses, and a valuable book he authored, "The Good Entrepreneur." The book not only provides valuable insights and a deeper look at his story but also offers actionable tasks to guide you on your journey to becoming a better entrepreneur. Don't miss thi
Tue, October 10, 2023
Ep89 Elle Petrillo - Elevate Your Personal Brand and Skyrocket Sales
Are you ready to supercharge your personal brand and take your business to the next level? In this insightful episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with the wonderful Elle Petrillo, a branding and sales expert from Brand Builders Group. Together, they dive deep into the world of personal branding and sales strategies that can transform your entrepreneurial journey. In the first part of the interview, Elle shares her invaluable insights into personal branding and its paramount importance in today's digital landscape. Discover how Brand Builders Group helps mission-driven messengers, including entrepreneurs and service-based professionals, solidify their online reputation and become household names in their industries. Elle and Jason emphasize that it's not just about getting more leads; it's about focusing on what's next for the clients you already serve. Learn how to navigate the ever-changing world of sales and develop a resilient mindset that can handle rejection with grace. Elle's wisdom will reshape the way you approach sales conversations, ensuring you ask the right questions to uncover your potential customers' concerns and provide tailored solutions. In the second half of the interview, Elle delves into the art of sales, breaking down crucial tactics and strategies that can skyrocket your success. Discover why letting your customers speak without interruption is a game-changer and why tracking and analyzing your sales process is a must for growth. Elle also shares the eight key components of a successful sales system, from lead generation and nurturing to closing deals and promoting through testimonials. Whether you're an experienced entrepreneur or just starting out, this episode will provide actionable insights to enhance your sales approach and brand building journey. Elle's expertise extends to helping you prevent those pesky "maybes" in sales and mastering the art of closing through effective questioning and objection handling. Plus, learn the secrets of upselling and building a referral process that can unlock new revenue streams for your business. Are you ready to amplify your personal brand, drive consistent, high-quality leads, and make a more significant impact in your field? Elle's insights will guide you on your path to success. So, don't miss out! To take the next step in your personal branding journey, connect with Elle Petrillo and her team at Brand Builders Group. Schedule a complimentary 60-minute call with one of their strategists to gain clarity on your goals and unlock your roadmap to success. You can also find Elle on LinkedIn and Instagram. Don't let your personal brand stay in the shadows. Elevate your brand, transform your sales game, and unleash your full potential with the guidance of Elle Petrillo and Brand Builders Group. Start your journey
Tue, October 03, 2023
Ep88 Andrew L. Anderson - Unlocking Your Ultimate Purpose: Discover Your Life Mission
Explore the profound journey of self-discovery and discovering purpose in life in this captivating episode of Strategy + Action with host Jason Croft and guest Andrew L. Anderson! In the first half of this thought-provoking episode, they dig into the power of creating a life's mission, unraveling its multifaceted layers and its profound connection to ideas like legacy and creativity. Andrew Anderson shares his remarkable journey from never envisioning himself as an author to an awe-inspiring moment in the majestic Zion National Park, an incredible story of how he felt a divine calling that led to the birth of his book, "Strength of the Oak, Strength of the Willow." Discover the transformative process of finding one's life mission and how it becomes a beacon of purpose, particularly during challenging times. Andrew's insight into guiding individuals seeking meaning and direction in their lives is truly enlightening. Uncover the hidden truth that success in business and family can still leave you yearning for more without a clear life mission. Jason and Andrew delve into the idea that recognizing the purpose behind your pain can catalyze immense personal growth. But here's the kicker – your life's mission doesn't need to be grandiose; it can be deeply personal and profoundly meaningful. Andrew hints at the idea that life missions can evolve and change over time, promising a deeper dive into the discovery process and its tangible impact on your life. In the second half of this episode, Jason and Andrew venture further into the essence of a life mission – it's not just about the destination; it's the journey that matters. Discover the significance of finding a mission that stirs your soul and fuels your inner fire. Andrew candidly shares his own journey of discovering his life mission at a young age and how it has been his guiding star ever since. Gain insights into the concept that a life mission can expand and evolve, encouraging you to embrace change and growth. Andrew emphasizes the incredible value of serving others as a means to unveil your true passion and purpose. Don't worry if you haven't found your passion yet; by helping others, you might stumble upon your calling and the ultimate fulfillment you seek. The episode concludes with Andrew's inspiring journey into coaching and speaking, born out of a challenging period in his life. Witness his remarkable transformation from teaching to real estate, and ultimately, to coaching and speaking – all thanks to the unwavering support and belief of someone who recognized his potential. Get ready to embark on an incredible journey of self-discovery, growth, and purpose in this episode of "Strategy + Action." Explore the evolving nature of your life's mission and consider how service can unlock your true passi
Tue, September 19, 2023
Ep87 Aaron Walker - Building a Business That Transforms Lives
🚀 The Mastermind Movement: Transforming Lives and Businesses Worldwide 🌎 Author, speaker, coach, business owner, and family man Aaron Walker is on the show today. If you don't yet know "Big A", well you're in for a treat. From a first meeting and mastermind with Dave Ramsey, Aaron's trajectory in life was forever shifted and led him to the massive impact he's had today on hundreds of men's lives (and their families). He was encouraged by a mastermind member to start coaching, which he fell in love with. This led to podcast interviews and eventually the formation of mastermind groups, which have grown to include participants from around the world. Aaron emphasizes the transformative power of these mastermind groups in people's lives. He also touches on the distinction between coaching as a high-paying job and building a business that can generate income even when you're not actively involved, highlighting the importance of creating an asset for the future. Throughout the conversation, Aaron emphasizes the significance of surrounding oneself with trusted advisers and being part of a supportive community, emphasizing the value of vulnerability and transparency in building strong relationships. Aaron goes on to discuss how he got involved in hosting mastermind groups and the growth of his mastermind community: 1. Aaron Walker started doing podcast interviews to share his story and was featured on John Lee Dumas's "Entrepreneur on Fire" podcast. This led to 15 one-on-one coaching clients after the first episode aired. 2. Despite initially not wanting to start a mastermind, Aaron started one and eventually expanded it due to high demand. The mastermind groups have grown over the years. 3. The mastermind framework focuses on sharing personal and professional goals in areas such as relationships, personal development, professional growth, spirituality, and physical health. They use a digital accountability tool to track progress. 4. Members in these groups hold each other accountable, which leads to the adjustment of goals as they achieve more than expected. 5. They have also developed a Success and Significance Scorecard to measure progress in all five areas of life. 6. Aaron emphasizes the importance of building a community, cross-pollinating between groups, and leveraging the relationships within the mastermind for networking and collaboration. 7. The community includes members from different countries and backgrounds, creating a diverse and supportive environment. 8. Aaron and his team have created resources, including a Mastermind Playbook, to help others build and scale their own mastermind groups. They emphasize sharing knowledge rather than hoarding it. <
Tue, August 08, 2023
Ep86 Marlana Semenza - Teaching Others How to Think of Us
"If you don't teach people how to think of you, then they'll make it up on their own." In this episode of Strategy + Action, the wonderful Marlana Semenza, a photographer and visual strategist, and I dive deep into the power of visuals in building a strong brand image. 📸 Marlana explores the difference between a documenting approach and a storytelling approach in photography, emphasizing the importance of conveying a message or story through images on a website. 🌟 Key Takeaway 1: "Fake it 'til you make it" is a poor strategy and Marlana explains why. 🌟 Key Takeaway 2: Breaking through the noise is crucial. In a world full of photographers vying for attention, understanding your target audience and having a visual strategy that resonates with them is essential to attract the right clients and differentiate yourself from the competition. 🌟 Key Takeaway 3: Be intentional in how you present yourself. Marlana highlights the importance of aligning your true essence with both your copywriting and photography. By teaching others how to think of us, we can shape the perception of our personal brand and attract the opportunities we desire. Don't miss this captivating conversation on how photography can impact your brand strategy and reputation.
Mon, August 07, 2023
Ep85 Eric Ryan - How to Break Free from Boring Marketing (especially on LinkedIn)
"You can't get anyone to do anything until you get their attention first." America's Sweetheart Eric Ryan is on the show today! And we're talking all about his mission in life to shake business owners into not making boring marketing on LinkedIn (I think his Manifesto is in the works). For some reason, when it comes to creating content to showcase our companies, our default as business owners is too often to "play it safe". But if we don't do something different and engaging (yes, attention-getting!) then we might as well be doing nothing. ✨ Here are 3 key takeaways from our conversation: 1️⃣ Showcasing Personality Pays Off: Eric believes that LinkedIn offers a fantastic opportunity for individuals and brands to express their personality and uniqueness. In the past, time and money constraints made it difficult, but now, it's more accessible and affordable. So, don't be afraid to show your true colors and stand out! 2️⃣ Authenticity is Key: Many people present themselves differently on camera, but Eric encourages authenticity, especially in the B2B world. Most of us have a unique personality that sets us apart. Embrace it, be real, and watch the magic unfold! 3️⃣ A Golden Age of Video: According to Eric, we're in the beginning of a video revolution. While commercials used to be expensive and limited to TV, now, anyone can create videos with their phone. He suggests that small to mid-sized businesses should experiment with creative and low-production videos, as constant content creation is key in the online world. 🎧 Tune in to the full episode (link below) to dive deeper into Eric's journey, his Offensively Creative approach, and how he helps entrepreneurs showcase their true selves through engaging content. Trust me, you don't want to miss it! 🙌 Watch on YouTube or listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your favorite podcast platform. And don't forget to share your thoughts and takeaways in the comments below. How can you be even a little more creative in your marketing today?
Tue, July 11, 2023
Ep84 Randall Craig - How to Show Up as a Thought Leader (and not just an expert)
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Developing Trust and True Thought Leadership to Grow Your Business Get ready for an extraordinary episode of Strategy + Action with our incredible guest, Randall Craig, alongside your dynamic host, Jason Croft! Randall Craig is a master at transforming organizations, particularly the big players in today's business landscape. He's here to share his wisdom, experience, and groundbreaking insights. 🚀 Our conversation kicks off with a captivating exploration of thought leadership. We're not just talking about being an expert; Randall takes us beyond that. We delve into what it truly means to be a thought leader and how to reach that elite level in a way that actually moves the needle in our business, rather than for some vanity metrics or words on a website. 🤝 But that's not all—we also deep-dive into the art of building trust. Discover how to establish genuine connections with your potential and existing clients. Randall provides invaluable frameworks to evaluate where you currently stand in terms of thought leadership and trust. These frameworks empower you to assess your presence and take purposeful actions to increase your thought leadership and level of trust. 🔍 This episode isn't just about evaluation; it's about growth and progress. Randall equips you with practical markers to guide your journey towards becoming a trusted thought leader with goal of enabling you to make meaningful strides in your professional endeavors. 🌟 Are you ready for an amazing, insightful, and transformative conversation? We thought so! Join us on this thought-provoking and enlightening episode of Strategy + Action, where we unlock the secrets to developing trust and achieving true thought leadership.
Sun, July 09, 2023
Ep83 Lydia Sugarman - RevOps Power and Running Your Business from a Single Login
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = RevOps and Running Your Business from a Single Login Welcome to Strategy + Action with your host Jason Croft! In this episode, Jason interviews Lydia Sugarman. Lydia is the CEO of Venntive, a robust software that delivers a complete, seamlessly integrated RevOps CRM solution, designed to support your business now and enable scaling up to enterprise. 📊 The core functionality of Lydia's company, Venntive, is a Customer Relationship Management (CRM) system. And trust us, having a well-organized database to manage your contacts is the key to unlocking your business's full potential. It's not just about sales and marketing; it's about building a network of potential clients and strategic partners. 💡 Ever had important tasks slip through the cracks? We all have! But Lydia's amazing system tackles this issue head-on. She'll share invaluable insights on how to prevent things from falling through the cracks and keep your business running smoothly. With her guidance, you'll master the art of follow-up and witness the incredible impact it has on your bottom line. 🌐 Discover how Lydia's database seamlessly integrates with every aspect of your business. From sales and marketing to operations and beyond, she'll teach you how to harness the power of a unified system that simplifies your workflow. Say goodbye to scattered tools and hello to efficiency and productivity! 🔔 Hit that subscribe button and be sure to turn on notifications so you never miss an episode of Strategy + Action. Join us as we embark on this transformative journey together. Let's revolutionize the way you run your business—watch now!
Thu, June 15, 2023
Ep82 Bodhi Aldridge - Creating a Path to Freedom Through the Power of Commitment
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Creating Alignment and the Path to Freedom Through Commitment 🔥 Get Aligned, Find Freedom, and Create Presence! 🔥 Welcome to another mind-blowing episode of Strategy + Action with your host, Jason Croft! Today, we have an extraordinary guest who will ignite your spirit and transform your life. Get ready to dive into a captivating conversation that will leave you inspired and motivated to take action! In this episode, we are joined by the phenomenal Bodhi Aldridge, a true beacon of wisdom and transformation. Bodhi specializes in guiding men to find their center and achieve unparalleled alignment. We often hear about the importance of alignment, but Bodhi takes it to a whole new level, breaking it down into intricate details that will revolutionize the way you perceive and approach life. Discover the three crucial areas where men must seek alignment in order to create a powerful presence that resonates with everyone around them. Bodhi reveals the secrets to connecting with your authentic self, embracing stillness, and finding your true purpose. Prepare to embark on a profound journey of self-discovery that will unlock boundless opportunities and transform your world. But that's not all! Bodhi also unveils the profound impact of commitment on creating freedom in your life. Learn how unwavering dedication can open doors you never thought possible, enabling you to embrace a life of abundance, fulfillment, and limitless possibilities. This episode is a treasure trove of knowledge, covering an array of thought-provoking topics that will leave you spellbound. Bodhi's expertise and genuine passion for helping men shine through as he generously shares practical strategies and actionable steps to enhance your life and relationships. Buckle up for an awe-inspiring conversation that will captivate your heart and spark a fire within your soul. 🎬 Watch now and embark on the path to greatness! 🎬
Thu, April 27, 2023
Ep81 Dena Woulfe - Discovering Hidden Health Solutions & Building a Powerful Network
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Hidden Solutions and Powerful Networking Coaches and consultants can be instrumental in finding the hidden causes of problems in your business. Dena does that with your health. Welcome to another episode of Strategy + Action, where we bring you insights from experts in wide-ranging disciplines. I'm your host, Jason Croft, and today we have the pleasure of welcoming Dena Woulfe to the show. Dena is an expert in identifying hidden health problems and providing solutions that transform lives. She is also a successful business owner who made the transition from being a nurse for 20 years to running her own business. During our conversation, Dena shares her incredible technology that helps diagnose health issues that may be affecting mental and physical performance. She also talks about the challenges she faced when transitioning from nursing to owning a business, including the importance of networking. Dena moved halfway across the country during her transition, and she had to quickly learn how to build a network of like-minded individuals to grow her business. She shares some of the strategies she used to build relationships and find a community that supported her business growth. As someone who has benefited from Dena's amazing networking skills, I can attest to the power of purposeful introductions and building a strong network. Dena's insights and experiences will inspire you to take action in your own life and business. So sit back, relax, and enjoy this episode of Strategy + Action with Dena Woulfe.
Tue, April 18, 2023
Ep80 Chris Felton - How to Overcome Your Money Challenges and Shift the Story
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Knowing What to Change When Nothing is Working In today's episode, we dive into a topic that many of us can relate to: the moment when we realize that what we've been doing isn't working. Whether it's in our personal or professional lives, we can find ourselves stuck in a rut, endlessly optimistic that things will get better if we just keep pushing harder. Our guest, Chris Felton, is a seven-figure entrepreneur, bestselling author, and coach who has experienced this very same struggle. He shares with us his own journey through the darkest times of his life, and how he (with the strong support of his wife) finally accepted that they needed to make a change. Chris provides valuable insights into how to navigate this challenging season, including how to accept the reality of the situation, how to identify the tools needed to make a change, and how to take meaningful action to move forward. If you're feeling stuck or are leading a team or organization that needs to pivot, this episode is a must-listen. Chris's book, Think and Grow You, is a powerful resource for anyone looking to make positive changes in their lives. Tune in to learn how to embrace the power of strategy and action to create a better future for yourself and those around you.
Thu, April 13, 2023
Ep79 Kim Lebbing - Getting Through Mental Barriers in a Single Session to Transform Your Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Transforming Your Business in One Session In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft sits down with mindset coach, Kim Lebbing to discuss the idea of overcoming blocks in business that prevent growth and progress. Kim has an amazing and unique approach to addressing these blocks and has helped countless clients completely transform their businesses and personal lives in just a single session with her. During the episode, Kim shares stories of clients who have achieved amazing results with her help either one-on-one or in her group coaching. Tune in to hear more about Kim's powerful approach to business and personal transformation.
Mon, April 10, 2023
Ep78 Adam Kasix - How to Overcome Deep-rooted Frustration
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Overcoming Deep-Rooted Frustration In this episode, host Jason Croft and the wonderful Adam Kasix talk in depth about overcoming deep-rooted frustration in life that sits beneath the surface and is at the root of keeping us from reaching the heights we know we are meant for. They delve into the feeling of being stuck and the nagging frustration that can come from not pursuing what you really want in life, whether it's a professional or personal goal. Adam helps clients identify the root cause of their frustration and guides them through taking action toward a better future. This conversation is full of energy and insights that will inspire listeners to take that big first step toward overcoming their own frustrations. Tune in to hear more about Adam's incredible story and his proven coaching process, The Seven Pillars of Revolutionary Freedom.
Thu, April 06, 2023
Ep77 Jürgen Strauss - Transforming Your Business and Life with Podcasting
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Transforming Your Life and Business with Podcasting In this episode, Jason welcomes Jürgen Strauss, a podcasting expert and host of the Innovabuzz podcast, to discuss the transformative power of podcasting in both life and business. While podcasting is a great way to build your client base and invite ideal clients as guests, there are also so many ancillary benefits to starting a podcast, including the opportunity to meet amazing people and build a community. Jason and Jürgen delve into the many ways podcasting can benefit your life and business, and how Jürgen is expanding his podcast into a full-fledged community. As you hear Jürgen's compelling story and wonderful conversational style, you quickly see how he's got over 550 episodes under his belt and still going strong. There is such power in having a thriving podcast as a marketing pillar in your business. Check out this episode to find out how Jason and Jürgen have put that pillar in place in their businesses and why you should too.
Thu, March 30, 2023
Ep76 Ernesto Mandowsky - How to Embrace the Chaos and Tame it with Systems
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Taming the Chaos as a Solopreneur In this episode, host Jason Croft invites Ernesto Mandowsky to discuss the challenges of being a solopreneur and how to manage the chaos that comes with it. Mandowsky shares his insights on embracing chaos and developing systems and processes to manage it effectively. He also shares his personal journey of helping entrepreneurs grow their businesses while maintaining a healthy work-life balance. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone looking to improve their productivity and manage their business's chaos effectively. Tune in to discover actionable strategies to tame the chaos and grow your business. ______________________________ MaYGXtXw4ful0xQiH7uN
Mon, March 27, 2023
Ep75 Janet E Johnson - Catapulting Your Success with Expert Advertising
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Catapulting Your Growth with Expert Advertising In this episode of Strategy + Action, host Jason Croft welcomes Janet E Johnson, an expert in online advertising, specifically Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok ads. Together, they dive into the world of digital advertising and explore what it takes to create successful ad campaigns. Janet and her team are constantly working with clients to create and test new ad strategies, and she shares her insights on what it takes to define audiences and optimize for success. They also discuss the importance of testing and data analysis to make informed decisions on what's working and what's not. Janet outlines exactly who would benefit most from her services, as well as the important factors to consider before diving into running ads. For those who are ready to take their business to the next level, Janet and her team offer a shortcut to growth by adding fuel to the influx of leads and conversations. Tune in to this episode of Strategy + Action to learn from an incredible expert on how to maximize your online advertising efforts and take your business to new heights.
Tue, March 21, 2023
Ep74 Maxine Cunningham - Connecting the World with the First Knowledge Marketplace
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Connecting the WorldWelcome to Strategy + Action, the podcast where we bring you inspiring stories and insights from experts who are making a difference in the world. In this episode, we are thrilled to have Maxine Cunningham as our guest. Maxine is the co-founder and CEO of Pick My Brain, a platform that facilitates conversations and connections between people from all over the world. Her mission is to enable 10 million conversations, and she's well on her way to achieving that goal. In this episode, Maxine shares her incredible story of how she started the platform, the inspiration behind it, and the first steps she took to make it happen. She also talks about the unique approach she took in building the platform and how it's attracting people from all over the world to join her mission. But Pick My Brain is not just a platform for one-on-one conversations. Maxine shares how it works for universities, corporations, and other organizations to facilitate connections and knowledge sharing. Host Jason Croft dives deeper into Maxine's story and you'll hear about her recent travels to Pakistan and Dubai, where she continues to spread the message of connection and collaboration. This episode is a must-listen for anyone who believes in the power of connection and wants to make a difference in the world. So join us for Strategy + Action with Maxine Cunningham!
Fri, March 17, 2023
Ep73 Anke Herrmann - Realizing When Tech is the Least of Your Problems
Welcome to episode 73 of Strategy + Action, where we explore the intersection of business strategy and action with industry experts. In today's episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Anke Herrmann, an author, business coach, and online tech mentor. We dig in deep on today's topic: Tech is the Least of Your Problems, delving into the misconception that many entrepreneurs have when building their business online. They often believe that technology is the biggest obstacle to success, but in reality, it's just a small piece of the puzzle and probably not the step they should start with. Anke shares her insights and experiences working with clients who come to her with what they think are tech problems when trying to put their business together online or transitioning from one-on-one coaching to creating a course. She explains that many of these so-called tech issues, such as choosing the right platform, are not the real problems at all. Instead, they have yet to address the crucial steps that come before choosing a platform. Throughout the episode, we talk about how Anke peels back the layers for her clients, helping them decide if the software they thought they needed is the right tool for the job and more importantly, helping them focus on the essential aspects and real next steps in the process of building their business. Anke also stresses the importance of meeting clients where they are and understanding the problems they're struggling with the most. By making clients feel heard and understood, even if their issues aren't the ultimate problem, entrepreneurs can build trust and establish a strong foundation for their businesses. This is a must-listen for anyone looking to avoid common pitfalls and achieve long-term success. So tune in to episode 73 of Strategy + Action with guest Anke Herrmann, and discover why tech is the least of your problems when it comes to building a thriving online business.
Wed, March 15, 2023
Ep72 Markus Kaulius - The Staggering Power of Getting 1% Better
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Staggering Power of 1% Better I am beyond excited to have Markus Kaulius as our guest today. Markus is the CEO of the sports nutrition powerhouse, Magnum Nutraceuticals which he built from the ground up over the last 18 years. He is also an incredible leader and global speaker, helping high achievers find fulfillment beyond career success and guiding them toward living a truly meaningful life. With his unique perspective and vast experience, Markus shares insights on how to balance the pursuit of career success with personal fulfillment, and how to create a holistic approach to your life's goals. Markus's energy and passion are contagious, and you will feel his excitement as he shares his wisdom and insights with us. Get ready to be inspired by Markus Kaulius on Strategy + Action. Let's dive in!
Mon, March 13, 2023
Ep71 Frank Agin - How to Network Intentionally and Build a Business Around Connection
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = How to Build a Business Around Connection Our very special guest, Frank Agin, has built an entire business around the skill of connecting and networking. I've been amazed by his intentional and crafted approach to understanding whom people are looking for in their business and how he can connect them. Frank is the president of AmSpirit Business Connections, which empowers entrepreneurs, sales representatives, and professionals to become successful through networking. He also hosts the Networking Rx podcast and is the author of several books, including LinkedWorking which he co-authored with Lewis Howes, and Foundational Networking. In this episode, we dive deep into the art of networking, exploring ways to be intentional with our connections and how to do it better. We discuss Frank's core networking business, AmSpirit, his monthly networking groups, and how he helps people thrive and connect in each of them. Join us as we learn from the best and discover how we can use networking to achieve our own goals.
Fri, March 10, 2023
Ep70 Joe Blackburn - How to Embrace Risk to Grow Your Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Taking a Risk for Your Next Level of Growth In this episode, we have a very special guest - Joe Blackburn. Joe is an expert in helping his clients bridge the gap from standard growth to expansive success. We dig into the topic of risk and how important it is to embrace it while getting consistent feedback from a trusted group of people around you. Joe shares his journey of leaving behind a lucrative and successful career of 20 years to pursue his passion for helping others. He discusses the incredible results he creates for his clients through his company, Lion's Eye Coaching, and his mastermind program, where he guides high-achieving individuals from multiple industries toward expanded growth and success. Joe's tough love approach ensures that his clients don't settle for mediocrity and instead reach their true potential. He emphasizes the importance of expanding your scope and opening up to new possibilities. This episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to take their business to the next level. So, join us as we dive into this fascinating conversation with Joe Blackburn. Let's jump in!
Tue, March 07, 2023
Ep69 Chris Michel - How to Stop the Self-Inflicted Harm of Your Sales Process
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Stopping the Self-inflicted Harm of Your Sales Process Welcome to Strategy + Action, the show where we explore the intersection of intentional strategy and purposeful action. In this episode, we dive deep into the concept of self-inflicted harm in the sales process with guest Chris Michel. Chris is a sales and business coach, specializing in the HVAC and plumbing industries. He helps his clients to refine their sales processes and perfect their pitches to drive more revenue and build trust with potential customers. In this conversation, we explore how the lack of intentionality and purposefulness in our sales process can lead to self-inflicted harm. We discuss the importance of practicing sales scripts and honing our sales skills to build trust and overcome the walls that people put up in sales conversations. Chris also shares insights from his book, The Red Chair Experience, which has a powerful origin story and is already making a positive impact on the world. Whether you're a sales professional or just looking to improve your communication and trust-building skills, this episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for creating a successful sales process. Join us as we learn from Chris Michel and discover the power of taking ownership and delivering what your prospects truly need.
Fri, March 03, 2023
Ep68 Terry Bean - Connecting, Powerful Coaching, and Guiding the Next Generation
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Connecting, Powerful Coaching, & Guiding the Next Generation In this episode, we welcome the amazing coach, speaker, and author Terry Bean to the show. Terry shares that even though how he markets and approaches his coaching practice may be unconventional to some, the results are powerful. We talk about how the best way to get results and progress faster is by going full speed in a direction and shifting course as necessary. Terry has taken that approach not only in his coaching but also as an author and in building an incredible network. Our conversation also delves into Terry's upcoming book, Finding Harmony, which has a powerful origin story that Terry shares with us. And of course, we get into one of Terry's superpowers, which is networking. He takes us through how he first got started building impactful networks of people and how it changed everything for him. You're going to love this episode with Terry Bean. Make sure you reach out and see how Terry can help you develop your ultimate human potential.
Tue, February 28, 2023
Ep67 Robert Peterson - How to Create Happiness as an Entrepreneur
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Cultivating Happiness as an Entrepreneur Robert Peterson is on the show today and we have a phenomenal conversation around the idea of happiness and what it means to really have that in your life as an entrepreneur. If you're working for someone else, all of these same things apply, but we find that as an entrepreneur, it's even harder to cultivate at times because there doesn't ever seem to be a time to "switch off". Especially if you haven't established those boundaries yet and structured your business in a way that allows you to have that "off" time away from the business. Robert and his wife, Noelle have built a coaching practice around this idea of finding that core element of why you started your business in the first place and making sure that you bring that front and center and use that as a filter to make some structural changes around everything that you do in your life and business. And we're not talking about making the business the core thing in your life above family or other relationships. Quite the opposite. So often we start a business for the freedom it can provide and to be in control of when we spend time with those close to us, and then that's the last thing we end up being able to do. What Robert is helping entrepreneurs do is define that core reason, set that as the primary goal, and build their business and life around it so that it's protected and they're moving towards that on a consistent basis. Check out this full episode and then reach out to see how Robert and Noelle can help you and your business.
Mon, February 20, 2023
Ep66 Stu Heinecke - Create an Unfair Advantage in Your Business with Radical Weed-like Collaborations
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Unfair Advantage of Weed-like Collaboration In this episode, we sit down with Stu Heinecke and have an absolute blast discussing his latest book, "How to Grow Your Business Like a Weed." Stu is a Wall Street Journal cartoonist, the amazing author of "Get the Meeting" and "How to Get a Meeting with Anyone," and an incredible guy that I had the good fortune to meet on LinkedIn. We dig into the concept of radical collaboration and the importance of having something meaningful and unique to collaborate around. Stu shares his insights on how to grow your business like a weed and the anchor point that people can grab onto, making collaboration easy. We talk about having a unique selling proposition and taking it several steps beyond to become a "category of one" in your business. By doing so, potential collaborators will reach out to you because it's just so obvious once it's out there, and they have something to grab onto. This is a powerful tool for you to use in your own business. So, join us for this fascinating conversation, and let's jump in!
Thu, February 02, 2023
Ep65 Danielle Fitzpatrick Clark - How to Develop Influence to Impact the World
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Real Power of Influence Danielle Fitzpatrick Clark is on the show to join me in digging into the topic of influence. Danielle shares her unique perspective on the idea of having influence over herself and then moving through the world in a way that influences others. She has been involved in digital marketing for 15 years. Her company, Influence Builder, focuses on digital marketing and influencer marketing, with a further focus on building community. She recommends that people build their community on the platform they are most comfortable with and where their ideal clients are most active. Additionally, she notes that a third of LinkedIn users are not on any other social media platform, making it a potential option for building community. Being influential starts from within, learning to be balanced and show up at your best. Emotional intelligence is key to being influential and is a pathway that business owners should focus on in 2023. Influencing is much deeper than manipulating others and making sales; it is more foundational and speaks to those who may not consider themselves influential. Everyone has intentions and ways of moving through the world, whether they have taken the time to formalize them into goals or not. When someone takes the time to influence themselves by knowing who they are and what their mission is, they gain confidence. This confidence is attractive and also creates a ripple effect that attracts other influential people. Knowing what you are here to do and leading by example is the key to becoming an influential force in this world. There are three circles of influence, starting with yourself and then expanding to those with whom you have a trust factor and then those with a curiosity factor. To reach more people and be an example for more, the next step is to know the direction in which you want to go. Danielle believes that before beginning a strategy, it is essential to have the right mindset. This will help ensure that the right direction is taken and that any necessary pivots or switches in direction can be made quickly and effectively. Knowing where you want to go in your business is the next step, and it is important to take incremental steps in that direction rather than running full speed without a plan. Check out this amazing episode and learn how truly be influential.
Wed, February 01, 2023
Ep64 Drew Deraney - How to Transform Lives By Solving Your Own Problem
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Transforming Lives By Solving Your Own Problem In this powerful episode, I talk to Drew Deraney, a man who has faced his own struggles and is now on a mission to help others. Mental health can be a difficult and taboo subject for men, but Drew is breaking the mold and starting important conversations. As the founder of Men Supporting Men Collaboration Tribe, he is creating a safe and supportive space for men to express their emotions and seek help when they need it. This episode is a must-watch for anyone who wants to understand the challenges that men face when it comes to mental health and the importance of creating a supportive community.
Thu, January 26, 2023
Ep63 Christine Burrows - The Power of Growth-minded Networking
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Power of Growth-minded Networking We're talking about a crucial aspect of growing your business as a consultant: networking. Finding the right kind of people to connect with can make all the difference in expanding your client base and building a successful business. But with so many options out there, it can be overwhelming to know where to go. That's why I'm excited to have Christine Burrows on the show to share her expertise on purposeful and efficient networking. Christine runs Powered by Purple Ink, an organization that provides an ecosystem specifically tailored to connecting workforce consultants with like-minded individuals and potential clients. In this episode, we dig into the importance of finding the right networking opportunities and how joining a community like Powered by Purple Ink can help you grow your business in a meaningful way. One thing that really stood out to me during our conversation was how Christine emphasized that networking is not just about referring business to each other, it's about being purposeful in developing profitable collaborations. This is the kind of networking that's going to help you level up your business. If you're looking to expand your network and grow your business, check out this episode and connect with Christine!
Mon, January 23, 2023
Ep62 Ania Hulsman - How to Transition to Your Own Coaching Brand
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Transitioning to Your Own Coaching Brand On today's episode, we have Ania Hulsman, an experienced Coach and Guide to business owners and founders who has spent several years honing her skills under a well-established brand and methodology. But now, she has stepped back out on her own and created her own unique style of coaching. Join us as we delve into Ania's story, including why she chose to spend part of her career under another banner, the challenges she's faced, and the wins she's experienced as she builds her own brand. This is a conversation that will resonate with anyone who's ever considered taking the leap and starting their own business. Tune in now for valuable insights and inspiration on the road to building your own brand.
Thu, January 05, 2023
Ep61 James Shockley - Building Automation Into Your Sales and Marketing
James Shockley the founder of Marketing Mate is on the show today and we're talking all about bringing automation to your sales and marketing inside your business. With Marketing Mate, James helps coaches and consultants automate and streamline their sales and marketing processes. James and his team have developed a platform that goes beyond the typical CRM and helps automate repetitive tasks, freeing up time for more important and meaningful work. If you're a coach or consultant looking to streamline your business and save time, this episode is definitely worth a listen.
Tue, December 27, 2022
Ep60 Scott Aaron - The Power of Asking to Generate Leads on LinkedIn
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = How to Ask on LinkedIn I've got Scott Aaron on the show to discuss how to effectively ask on LinkedIn. From courses and masterminds to building trust and creating engagement on your posts, Scott shares his expertise on how to show up professionally online, specifically on LinkedIn. Don't miss this valuable conversation on the best ways to ask for what you want, whether it be a sale or simply more engagement with your content. Tune in for a wealth of knowledge and actionable tips on how to succeed on LinkedIn and beyond.
Thu, December 15, 2022
Ep59 John Small Mountain Hill - How to Build a Sales Process for Real People
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = How to Build a Sales Process without Losing Your Humanity John "Small Mountain" Hill is back for a second appearance on the show. He's written a fantastic book called, Selling From Scratch. John is an amazing guy and phenomenal at training sales teams. So much of both his expertise and his love of building relationships comes through in his book. There was so much I wanted to dive into after reading it, but the number one thing was this idea of building out the necessary systems and processes for selling, while still maintaining the humanness of selling and interacting with another person throughout it. And what I love about this interview, too, is that you'll notice a transition to another day where we redid a huge portion of the talk. Why? Because one thing that I just love about John is that he really wants to give as much value as possible. It's how he runs his group, his training, his consulting - everything. When we did round one of the interviews, we just didn't quite nail it in terms of that complete answer. So we jumped in for the second part, and I'm so glad we did. We ended up just having a fantastic in-depth conversation around this whole idea, and I know you're gonna love it. Let's jump in!
Thu, December 08, 2022
Ep58 Chris Bogue - Creating Effective, Mercifully Short (and Not Boring) Video Content
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Creating (Mercifully Short) Videos That Aren't Boring Chris Bogue is on the show today we're talking about the power of creating short, quick, enjoyable videos out there, both on the content marketing side of things - posting on LinkedIn to grab attention and educate your audience, but especially in the sales process. Chris is a master at helping your message your prospects with these short little fantastic videos that are all about them. Chris does an amazing job of grabbing attention on LinkedIn. I came across his hilarious videos and jumped on a LinkedIn live he was doing, teaching folks about his process. What's just as important - maybe more so - as the "grabbing attention" aspect of what Chris teaches, are the systems and processes that Chris helps his clients with in order to create this content. He works with folks all the time who have never done this before. Even though they're on board with the idea of doing video, they've bought his course or hired him directly, it's a foreign language for them. They have no idea how to go about this. So the process he takes them through not only makes it achievable and consistent but also helps them find their unique approach. Chris is a sketch comedian and improviser who wrote and directed shows at Chicago's Second City Theater, but he also knows the sales world and knows what it takes to really move the needle when it comes to those direct outreach videos, for instance, and what to do once those videos work. We had a blast talking about this subject, and I know you'll get a ton out of it. So let's jump in.
Wed, November 30, 2022
Ep57 Robin Waite - Knowing Your Client's Pain and Charging What You're Worth
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Knowing Your Client's Pain and Charging What You're Worth Robin Waite is on the show today. And we had an absolute blast talking through a couple of really key components to running a coaching and consulting practice. Or heck, even if you're a freelancer offering services per hour. We dig into really finding some solutions around that. And I say solutions because there's a problem if you're simply trading your time for money like that on a per-hour basis. We start off around the power of knowing your clients' pain points. It's such an important aspect of a coaching practice (any business at all, really). We discuss how to do market research to find out what your clients are struggling with. Also, what are they aspiring to and what are they trying to accomplish? When we can dig into what they're really struggling with, and then line that up with how we can bring solutions to those problems, we're going to find that perfect fit in the type of client we want to work with along with the solution that we can provide. We start with the pain points but then we quickly dig into so many different areas that Robin is helping coaches and consultants and even freelancers with his Fearless Business program. Make sure you check out Robin's books, including Take Your Shot , Online Business Startup , and Marketing Machine . And Robin mentions in this episode, if you go to Fearless.biz/tys , he'll send you a signed copy of Take Your Shot ! This is a phenomenal and fun interview. So let's jump in!
Tue, November 15, 2022
Ep56 Nkiruka Nwasokwa - Close Your Prospect Before They Even Know What You Sell
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Closing Your Prospect Before They Know What You Sell "You can pique someone's interest all day. That doesn't mean that they're sold on the value of what you're offering." Nkiruka Nwasokwa is a Quantum Revenue Expert for consultants and coaches who have novel, groundbreaking services that are difficult to explain. She helps them increase their sales in a matter of days - or hours - just by using a Viral Product Pitch. It's extraordinary and mind-expanding when you hear her framework for creating this pitch. As Nkiruka takes us through the framework and examples of it in action in this episode, you instantly understand the power of creating a pitch like this for yourself. But you also see how important the nuances are with how you construct it and the language you use. This is what makes both the structure of the pitch and Nkiruka's expertise in crafting it so incredible. Make sure you check out the full episode and reach out to her to see how a Viral Product Pitch could change your business.
Tue, November 08, 2022
Ep55 Laban Ditchburn - The Cultivation of Courage
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Cultivation of Courage. Laban Ditchburn joins me on the show today and we're talking all about courage. Laban is a phenomenal guy whom I had the good fortune to meet a few weeks ago in Drew Deraney's Profit Compassion group. I jumped and grabbed his audiobook, Bet On You , which I highly recommend as well as his podcast, Become Your Own Superhero , where he interviews amazing people every week. Laban has overcome so much in his life, including about every addiction you can imagine, which he talks about very openly in his book. And he's transformed not only himself but his clients over the years. And very specifically, this new direction that he's gone is really helping people cultivate that courage in themselves to change and to take action. We get into the origin of where the label of The World's Best Courage Coach came from and how it goes far beyond some vanity thing that someone might think about when they first hear it. This idea of courage is so critical and it's not the idea of never being afraid. It's about setting that fear aside and doing the thing anyway. And the most amazing outcomes can happen when you have that mindset and you take those actions. We get into really specific instances of where we can use that skill, as well as how to cultivate that skill of having courage, and how we can even use it to separate ourselves from the millions of other people who do the exact same thing that we do. Courage is everything when it comes to developing certainty in business, but even in your personal relationships, we know that we all are drawn to those folks who have that confidence and who know what they stand for. So I'm excited for you to meet Laban and really benefit from everything that we dig into today. Let's jump in.
Tue, October 25, 2022
Ep54 Anshar Seraphim - How to Train Others to Enable Their Success
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = How to Train Others to Enable Success This is part three of our conversation with Anshar Seraphim. It has been a blast having this amazing, in-depth, giant conversation around all these topics with him. I encourage you to check out parts one and two - episodes 52 and 53 - of our conversation because there are a lot of contexts there that we're bringing together in part three here. There's a lot of education that went into Part One and Part Two that Anshar really brings together in today's episode, making it very applicable to now go train someone else or even learn a new skill yourself.
Mon, October 17, 2022
Ep53 Anshar Seraphim - The Real Power of Personality Types
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Real Power of Personality Types Welcome to Episode 53 of Strategy + Action. Today is part two of my interview with Anshar Seraphim. If you haven't checked out part one, make sure you go and do that because as much as you'll learn from Anshar in this episode, you'll have even more context around his expertise and some of the things leading into today's discussion. In this episode, we're digging into one of my favorite subjects that I first heard him speak about, which is different personality types. And I think most folks in the business world, the coaching world, and certainly in Corporate America, have heard about the different kinds of personality tests you can take. People's reactions to them range from thinking, "Oh, it's a bunch of nonsense," to believing the tests are the Gospel - and everything in between. I'm fascinated with them because they are an insight into people. And people, of course, fascinate me. And there's a baseline that these tests give us that allows us to make sure that line of communication is flowing the way it's supposed to so that we're not speaking in a way that's not being received by the other person in the way that we intend, and vice versa. So it's really powerful to have any kind of insight into people in a quick and efficient manner so that as soon as we meet someone, we can navigate that conversation in a much better way. Also, this isn't about putting someone in a bucket and leaving them there forever because you've decided who they are from the beginning. This is simply a way to start. This is a way to better navigate a relationship with someone, however high-level and casual or deep and intimate. It's amazingly powerful and Anshar educates us on not only understanding our own personality type and figuring out what some of the others are but also how to quickly use that knowledge and apply it in all these different ways. Alright, let's jump in.
Wed, October 12, 2022
Ep52 Anshar Seraphim - How to Get Your Clients to Apply What You Teach
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = How to Get Your Clients to Apply What You Teach In this episode, and the next two episodes as well, we've got on Anshar Seraphim. I have had a blast getting to know Anshar over the last couple of months. I saw him in Steve Sims' interview and just was amazed at the subject matter of different personality types because all of that fascinates me. But then I got the chance to get to know Anshar and he is so knowledgeable and experienced in so many areas from personality types, to sales, PR, copywriting, and so much more. What he's done to teach himself these skills is impressive enough. It's even more impressive when you then learn about Anshar's neurodiversity - his being almost nonverbal until age 11, due to undiagnosed autism. He's had to work even harder than a lot of folks would just to function in these roles, not to mention excel in them the way he has. And that's one of the things that's so incredible about his story, certainly. But what he brings to these next few episodes ... get ready, because you'll be learning a mile a minute. And it's not simply knowledge for knowledge's sake. It's how you as a coach, consultant, or business owner, can apply a lot of these skills in ways that maybe you didn't even think about before to improve your marketing, have better sales conversations, and even get your clients to apply what they've learned. But in this process, too, we learn how to use the same set of skills on ourselves so that we learn better in anything that we're trying to do. I'm excited to bring you these next three interviews. I know you'll hear several things that affect the way you do business from now on.
Thu, October 06, 2022
Ep51 Jay Haussman - Crafting a Winning Offer
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Crafting a Winning Offer We've got Jay Haussman on the show! Jay works with coaches, consultants, authors, and speakers ... helping these folks in the expert industry who are really focused on building their business online. What we dig into deep in today's episode is crafting a compelling offer. It's usually where he starts with someone. Sometimes they come to him for that specific help. Other times they come to him for his expertise in building a business online, but he'll still start with crafting that winning offer. It's such a critical component of your business. If you don't have that dialed in, nothing else really matters. You can run all the ads in the world to it. You can have all the sales calls in the world. But if your offer isn't really dialed in and what your audience is wanting, everything else is going to fall flat. But when you have that figured out, it makes everything else easier. So that's what we dig into today and including his journey to getting to where he is now. I love the journey he's been on and what he's jumped in and done over the last few years.
Tue, October 04, 2022
Ep50 Lisa Kipps-Brown - How to Thrive in Times of Transition
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Thriving in Transition. Lisa Kipps-Brown joins me for this great discussion around helping people thrive in times of transition, whether that's being at a point in your business where something major has to change in order for it to stay open, or if you find change being thrust upon your industry. Lisa's expertise is guiding people through those kinds of changes. She certainly works with entrepreneurs, usually. But even with that specificity, how she helps people really kind of runs the gamut, from helping those business owners with new technology or even put some systems in place so that they can either remove themselves from that business or set things up so that they can sell that business in a few years time. She even helps folks who have retired and they'd really like to start their own thing to bring their expertise to the world. And so now they're transitioning to that. We have a great discussion around all of these aspects of transition as well as her books and podcast.
Tue, September 27, 2022
Ep49 Jeremy Blubaugh - Using Personalization to Expand Your Business
Welcome to Ep49 of Strategy + Action. Jeremy Blubaugh is on the show today and we dig in around this concept of personalization, particularly when it comes to outreach and trying to break through the noise as a sales rep or business owner. So often we find ourselves struggling for a chance to simply sit across from that prospect whom you know you can help if you can just get the opportunity to connect with them and have a conversation. Jeremy's entire business and expertise are around this concept of finding those personalized ways to connect to that other person, reach out to them, and get that meeting. He does this for himself to get his clients, of course. But his specialty is doing that for his clients. They understand that the creative ways he uses to get in front of somebody are great, but they don't have time to do that themselves. That's where his company Coinflip Marketing comes in. They handle all of that for their clients and find these new, innovative ways to get them in front of high-quality prospects.
Tue, September 13, 2022
Ep48 Larry Kaul - How to Find Real Clarity in Your Business
Larry Kaul is on the show today. I met Larry on LinkedIn like many of my guests lately. It's been a fantastic place to just really come alive and network with some amazing folks. And Larry is a great example of that. I had a blast having this conversation around the topic of clarity. It's such a foundational skill to be able to identify exactly what you want to accomplish. Today, we talk a lot about clarity when it comes to your business, both in starting one from scratch and when you're three years in, for example, and you keep hitting the same obstacles. Larry has an amazing process for not only identifying those obstacles but finding the root obstacle of them all. And then being able to help you work past that one so that you open up the floodgates. Then you can figure out how to get to where you want to go. And it sounds easy on the surface. Unless of course, you've been in that situation like I certainly have, and a lot of people I know have, which is either starting a business, creating a new offer, whatever that might be, and hitting those roadblocks sometimes just within yourself and struggling to figure out which direction you really want to go. So we dig into finding that clarity and really working through how he's helping his clients, how he helped himself, and what you can take away and do as well.
Mon, August 29, 2022
Ep47 Andrew McKinney - Thriving on LinkedIn, Powerful Market Research, and Improving Customer Experience
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Power of Market Research & Thriving on LinkedIn I'm so excited to bring this episode to you. Andrew McKinney is on the show today. We have a phenomenal conversation around the really important and yet often overlooked topic of market research and the ways that it blends into the overall customer experience. There's really no excuse anymore, no matter how small or giant your company is to not take advantage of this integral part of understanding what your prospects and customers think about your brand, your offer, or what you're thinking about offering It's such a critical aspect of business, especially in the beginning days of starting up a company. And it's easier than ever to actually do well at this. Another area we dig into deep is LinkedIn. Andrew has been on the platform for quite a while and has a huge following. In this past year, he has experimented extensively on what's working and what isn't. Besides some individual tactics, what he has discovered and shares in this episode that is really important is the mindset that is really working on LinkedIn. And not only the numbers aspect of what's working but also what's working in terms of how to really connect with other folks on the platform.
Tue, August 23, 2022
Ep46 Jane Paterson - Developing Your Speaking Superpowers
Today we've got Jane Patterson on the show, having an amazing conversation all around communication. She is an absolute expert in giving people the tips and strategies to communicate better, whether that's speaking from the stage, doing well in a job interview, or talking with your kids at home. But her genius goes so much deeper than that for folks by addressing what's actually stopping them from communicating in the first place. And that is a big aspect of this conversation and to the subject of communication overall, that honestly, I just never even considered. So I love this conversation because she is such an expert at this and we go down several paths including why it's so important to focus on both sides of communication: speaking and listening and how you can do both better. We also discuss what it takes once you have that intention to become better at all of this as well as why you should. The art and skill of speaking go so far beyond standing on a stage and giving a speech. How you communicate with folks affects absolutely every area of your life. So why not be great at it?
Wed, August 17, 2022
Ep45 Taylorr Payne - Creating the Systems to Scale Your Expert Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Running Your Expert Business with Systems Taylorr Payne is with us today from SpeakerFlow. He and his business partner Austin Grammon have created this amazing solution for experts - speakers, coaches, consultants, and authors at all levels of their business. The folks they serve are successful in what they're doing, but they often don't have the systems to run the business aspect of what they're doing or to truly scale. What Taylorr and his team have done with SpeakerFlow is solve those massive pain points, but then also provided the training and resources around all of this. It's one thing to have the systems in place. It's another thing to have the right mindset when you go into using these systems to make your business better and to actually want it to grow because you can handle that growth. So we cover a lot of topics in this episode including the fantastic podcast that they run, Technically Speaking, the marketing partnerships that they've developed so well, and the evolution of the core offer of SpeakerFlow.
Mon, August 08, 2022
Ep44 Jake Thompson - The Power of Consistency
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Power of Consistency Jake Thompson and I just had a phenomenal conversation. I'm so excited to bring this to you. We cover so many topics in this one! Usually, on the show, we like to kind of dig in around one main theme. And my idea going into this was to talk about how to take consistent steps to get you to your end goal. And we definitely get there in this one. But we talk about so many aspects of how Jake helps people. He's got a book called Compete Every Day. His company with the same name which is both a clothing brand as well as speaking and coaching and training around this concept of improving and taking those kinds of necessary actions to get to your end goal. B We dig into so much around this from how he got started, how he made a big pivot in his brand, including how maybe he did too much of a pivot at once, but it was still all worth it. And he's doing just a phenomenal job right now helping large organizations and individuals through some of the same work to really improve their lives and improve their companies to get where they want to go. As you'll hear in the interview, we just go right into it without the usual "Welcome to the show" banter. It was great to catch up. I know Jake from back when I was in Dallas through my good friend and past guest, Julian Pacino. It's an amazing thing when you get really wonderful driven people in your life. They attract more of them and I've had the good fortune to know some amazing people. Jake is definitely one of them. And I'm really excited to bring this interview to you.
Tue, July 26, 2022
Ep43 Dale Dupree - Bringing Humanity Back to Sales
Introducing the The Hardest Working Man on LinkedIn! In this episode, we learn how to make sales like an actual human being instead of some caricature of a salesperson who only thinks about the numbers. Dale Dupree is on the show and he is leading his own Sales Rebellion to change the way people think about sales and how salespeople operate. He is a creative genius when it comes to finding new and unique ways to break the norm and get the attention of his prospects. He uses his superpowers for good, of course, by making sure that everyone he interacts with understands that what he wants more than anything is to truly connect and get to know who they are and how he might be able to help. We dive into so many great stories of hilarious ways he's gotten the attention of people he's tried to sell to and what this world of sales really means to him personally.
Tue, May 03, 2022
Ep42 JD Gershbein - Developing Your LinkedIn Mindset
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = A LinkedIn Style Mindset JD Gershbein is on the show today and we dig into developing your LinkedIn Style. This goes beyond LinkedIn and really applies to all the ways you can show up online or offline. This gets into intentionality about when you're going to show up somewhere, what's your style? Not necessarily the "I'm going to be that person who just lights up the room and dressed impeccably," although that's always great to strive for as well. But it really gets into just how you're going to show up. We certainly do dig in a lot around how you present yourself on LinkedIn so that when somebody is considering connecting with you that the two and a half seconds that they go to your profile, or they see you putting out content of some kind, what's what version of you that they see? It really pays to be purposeful and intentional with that as a reflection on you as a professional, your company if you own your own business or the company you're working for. And JD brings up the point that LinkedIn is still a business community. So, just like how you're going to show up a certain way when you're interacting in the business world, a lot of that applies here on LinkedIn. And so what JD has done is really gone full force into creating this LinkedIn Style Guide, his newsletter where he helps his audience with their style. And then he speaks on this subject and works with clients to help develop their style on LinkedIn so that they show up the best way possible. So we have a blast in this conversation and we even get into how improv and what JT is doing all tie in together and the community he's building around that.
Tue, April 26, 2022
Ep41 Don Schmincke - A Scientific Approach to Business Transformation
Today on the show = A Scientific Approach to Business Transformation We're talking to Don Schmincke today. And his consulting specialty is really unique. At a quick glance, you think, "Oh, a business consultant goes in to help CEOs and their organizations to change and improve, etc." When you take just a little bit deeper dive, even past the books he's authored and the speaking engagements, you see how different his approach is. Don comes from the scientific research and academia side of things from MIT and Johns Hopkins. And he's taken this approach to business that dates back hundreds of years that gets into the inner workings of humans, why they do things, and how to get them to do them better. We dig deep into how he goes beyond the typical strategy session that companies often go through - often immediately just jumping into tactics rather than zooming out and not just looking at the company overall, but looking at the marketplace, looking at competitors, looking at competitors you hadn't thought of before and really crafting a more complete strategy around that. Then these companies can go and apply the necessary tactics, but until you have that strategy, none of the tactics are going to work long term. I encourage you to jump into this full episode and see how Don developed and is using this different approach to consulting to help organizations improve not by simply putting a new mission statement on the wall, but by actually measurably improving the company with increased sales, increased market cap, etc.
Thu, April 21, 2022
Ep40 Cameron Toth - How to Build Your Brand and Your Network with Live Video
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Going Live to Build Your Brand and Your Network. In this episode, we've got Cameron Toth. He is doing an amazing show called Biz Dev Live on LinkedIn, as well as a one called the Master Connector Show with wonderful past guest, Steve Spiro. And they're both bringing it when it comes to showing up and doing these Live episodes on LinkedIn. It's such a powerful platform. The choice to be on camera and interview folks and have that kind of content going out there is certainly strong. But the specific choice to do it live brings with it a next level of confidence and professionalism that needs to be there. Part of that choice that we get into is not wanting to edit anything, which can certainly save you time on the backend. But also, it forces you into a consistent schedule. It's powerful, and not only inviting guests but having those guests show up when you have this set schedule that Cameron talks about. We get into these benefits, long term and short term benefits of doing this kind of initiative to grow your business as well as your personal brand and how the two certainly go together. We also dive deep into what Cameron has going on with his main company, Toth Event Staffing, how that can grow because of the show, and the benefits of having the show to him as a person, not just a business owner. Check out this full episode and certainly, connect with Cameron!
Tue, April 19, 2022
Ep39 Brett Williams - Building a Client Portal for the Growth of Your Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Building a Platform for the Growth of Your Business. Today, we're talking to Brett Williams, founder of RPAgency. He's put together not only a marketing agency but built this amazing platform, first, internally for his own use, and now he's built it out so that it's licensed to other folks. So if you want to start a marketing agency and kind of bring everything through there, there's a franchise model, there's a white label model. We also dig into what it would take for you to create something similar even if you have a business that has nothing to do with marketing. How can you take these same concepts and apply them? It's a great, important mindset and practice that you should have anyway, as you're building your business moving from freelancer to business owner.
Thu, April 14, 2022
Ep38 Jake Jordan - Developing a Community to Grow Your Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Developing a Community to Grow Your Business Today we're talking community with Jake Jordan. I came across an article that he wrote on LinkedIn around Community and it gave me half an excuse to bring him on the show. Because there are 100 things I can talk to Jake about and we usually do when we get together. So I really wanted to talk to him today about this concept of community when it comes to building your business. And we're not talking about a community you can build with an audience or clients. Or even the connotation some people have that involves networking groups. Those are both important, too. But what we're talking about is that core group of business owners who can help you level up and really dig into things that either you're having an issue with, or you don't even know is an issue but others see it and help you with it. And really have that accountability. And a big part of this concept is that it's not a "nice to have". Having some version of this is mandatory for your business to thrive, especially at the kind of speed I'm sure you want it to. Check out this episode for this concept of Community and several other big things Jake has going on.
Wed, April 13, 2022
Ep37 Steve Spiro - The Power of Connecting Authentically
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Power of Connecting Authentically Steve Spiro is on the show today. And we dig into one of my favorite topics in the world, which is connecting. And we both use this term very purposefully and strategically because it goes far beyond what a lot of folks would a pile of simply networking: meeting new people, growing your business that way, etc. That is one part of Connecting, certainly. And for us, networking is not a "four-letter word". Some people have a negative connotation to it around being forced to go to a Chamber of Commerce meeting or something like that. The other reason for the term, though, is that it goes deeper than just networking. It's not simply meeting somebody, and maybe you'll do business together one day. It's really leading with the fact that my goal is to connect with this other person, learn their story, dig in, and see what they're all about. And then maybe there's business to be done, or I know someone who needs their service or whatever that might be. But it's that connection first. We really talk about this concept of connecting authentically, and we go deep into what that actually means. Because it's one thing to have your intention be that connection that I just described, but it's a completely different thing for the other person to feel it. And there are some things that go into it that may seem like, "I shouldn't have to think about that. That's just being a human." But often, there are very purposeful things that we need to do to make sure that the other person feels that intent that we have. So I encourage you to dive into this episode with us and if you have that negative connotation of networking or things like this, hopefully, this gives you a different perspective on that and will help ease those fears or anxiety around it.
Mon, April 04, 2022
Ep36 Julian Placino - Recruiting with Strategic Content
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Recruiting with Engaging Content. Julian Placino is on the show today. I've had the great fortune to know Julian for several years now from the beginnings of his show Pathways to Success, to leaving his full-time job to start his own company. We dig in specifically around the business he's created to help companies recruit at a level nobody else is doing ... ...in a way nobody else is doing, taking his amazing skills as a recruiter, and then his skills as a media creator and combining those into a system for companies to reach candidates that aren't even looking and to convince those who are looking to consider them. As Julian points out in the show, "Everyone wins when a company is fully staffed." We're in a time right now when there is massive competition for hiring great talent. And companies need to not just "have a great company culture" ... that we hear about a lot, right? They need to be able to show that candidate how their culture really is different and what they really value and show it in a way that's going to help that candidate make that quick decision. Julian is creating systems for companies to empower their entire staff to bring in top talent and funnel them to internal recruiters. Julian brings us some incredible insights around the power of personal branding as well: - When you can see content as a way of creating passive income for your reputation, then you will start to see its real power. "I create a piece of content once and it pays me over the lifetime as social equity." - "Increased access to people gives you increased access to opportunity." We dig into Julian's background quite a bit, but we spend a whole lot of time around this new amazing offer and what he's doing for companies now.
Thu, March 03, 2022
Ep35 Craig Lillard - Building a Successful Company By Solving Your Own Problems
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Solving Your Own Pain to Grow a Successful Company Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Solving Your Own Pain to Grow a Successful Company Today, I've got Craig Lillard on the show. His company is ClipScribe. It's an amazing tool for ... at its core, automatically putting subtitles onto your videos. Automatically generating those subtitles that go on there and all sorts of design features and things like that. And while that may sound so basic because we kind of look around and there are several tools doing something similar. But, to be able to do it so easily and so well? That's a different animal. I've looked recently, you know, at some of these other tools as I see them pop up. And for what you get with ClipScribe, it's just unbelievable. And now Craig is even adding training, and not just around his product, but training around turning your videos into way more than just a simple video throwing it up on social. So we dig into all of that: some of the training he's got going on, how he is very purposefully the face of his company, still, even though it's a SaaS company and some folks have advised him not to do that. He's seen the benefits of that. And that's honestly a trend that I've seen some really high profile, very successful folks doing: being the face of the company but still being able to scale. And because you've got that human connection, it actually helps not only in the beginning, but even as you grow. So we dig into a bunch here around ClipScribe and his journey to get there. Why he started it in the first place really solving his own pain points. And then looking up and seeing, "Oh, wow. This is a really good product and not many other people are offering the service." And he's kind of gone from there and built on it and built on it all the way up to you know offering done for you services now through this platform. Really strong.
Thu, February 24, 2022
Ep34 Dr. Kate Gilpin & Chris Mather - How to Effectively Work with the Air Force
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Effectively Doing Business with the Air Force In this episode, I talk with Dr. Kate Gilpin and Chris Mather. They're with a program called APEX (Academic Partnership Engagement Experiment). APEX is administered by Parallax Advanced Research and is all about pairing entrepreneurs and universities with the Air Force. This is an exciting topic for me because I've had my eyes opened recently to all the new opportunities that are out there for entrepreneurs to work with the Armed Forces faster and more efficiently than ever before. A lot of the branches are really looking for that next new, innovative solution to a variety of problems. And they're improving how they discover and work with those entrepreneurs, as well as the university sector. APEX is not only working with entrepreneurs and universities, but pairing them together, and creating those alliances, through the networks that they have to then go and work with the Air Force. I hope you'll check out this episode and maybe it will spark an idea of how your company could benefit from this program.
Mon, February 07, 2022
Ep33 Tim Clarke - Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health at Work
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Overcoming the Stigma of Mental Health in the Workplace We all need Connection in our lives to varying degrees. But when we're going through something difficult it's even more important. When we're dealing with some kind of mental illness or addiction ... it can mean the difference between life and death. Tim Clarke is on the show today. I am so impressed with not only the difficult journey he's been on but his passion and hard work to help others going through their own journeys. Tim is a former Marketing Leader at Salesforce, but what we really dig into the most in this episode is his work as co-founder of Uncrushed, an organization dedicated to raising awareness around mental health, particularly in the workplace. But beyond awareness, Uncrushed is showing people a path to recovery on their own terms. I'm grateful to Michelle Hecht for her introduction to Tim. I'm honored to have him on the show and I encourage to check out the full episode (link in the comments) and connect with him and his team at Uncrushed. Remember that Connection is everything in this world. Connect with someone who needs it and Connect for yourself as well.
Thu, January 13, 2022
Ep32 Barbara Tunstall - Educating First for Better Sales
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Educating First for Better Sales The amazing Barbara Tunstall is on the show today! A dear friend and incredible Connector in the Dallas, TX tech scene, Barbara is the first person to take on the dual roles of Executive Account Manager for both the Richardson Chamber of Commerce and Tech Titans - the technology association of North Texas. In addition to her extensive sales experience, Barbara is a lifelong learner especially when it comes to the latest technology and all of the good it's doing in the world. And she has a passion for sharing that knowledge with as many people as possible. As she explains it, in every sales role she's ever had, her first job is to educate whomever she's working with to see if the solutions she offers could be a fit for that prospect. That's such a great approach for all of us to take. We cover strategies like that, the power of technology, and so much more in this episode. Make sure you reach out to Barbara on LinkedIn, especially if you're a business owner in the Dallas area.
Tue, December 21, 2021
Ep31 Chintan Sutaria - Ingredients for a Successful Acquisition
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Ingredients for a Successful Acquisition I am excited to bring this episode to you. I know I say that a lot, but I truly am. We've got Chintan Sutaria on the show today and his company, CalcuQuote is this incredible software company specialized in the space for contract manufacturers. I've been fortunate to know Chintan for several years now back from my Dallas startup days, and I've been so impressed with him. Not only starting this company in this great little niche area that he had very specialized knowledge in ... but also in the way that he has incrementally grown over the years. Expanding carefully, making sure that he has a solid, amazing product. Then a solid, amazing company. When we caught up a few weeks ago, he talked about the acquisition of his company that's happened in the last couple of years. And there were so many insights that I thought would be useful for you and wanted to have him on the show for that reason among many others, including growing his business. But a lot of these insights apply even if you're not going to sell your company. There's a valuable way to approach that process and even contemplating whether or not you want to could benefit your company by thinking about it in ways that maybe you never have before. And of course, we get into where he's taking the company next.
Tue, December 07, 2021
Ep30 Danny Galvez - Transformation, Gratitude, and the Strength of Service
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Transformation, Gratitude, and the Strength of Service. It's one thing to believe in the idea of gratitude, helping people out, and living with energy. It's a whole different thing to be a shining example of it for everyone you come in contact with. Danny Galvez is one of those people (and I know hundreds of folks who would agree!). I fully believe that Danny's "giving" spirit and driving work ethic are what have attracted many of the seemingly impossible opportunities to come into his life. From an incredible scholarship coming out of high school to finding his passion in radio and getting on air faster than he was "supposed to", to building sales skills and meeting people who would change his business life forever, Danny's drive and positive energy have not only attracted those opportunities but allowed him to work full out to take advantage of them as well. Danny dives into some great stories about these moments and will be the first to tell you that finding your path and staying positive and grateful isn't easy. But it's worth it. Danny's new endeavor, Voice Your Life is taking his master of audio in all of its powerful forms and helping people utilize it in building their legacy. I encourage you to check out this episode with Danny and find a way into Danny's world. It's a beautiful place.
Wed, November 17, 2021
Ep29 Jackie Bese - The Power of Innovative Marketing
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Power of Innovative Marketing Today, we're talking to Jackie Bese. I'm so excited to have him on the show. I've known Jackie for several years now from Dallas and he is such a great guy. He's somebody who really knows marketing and has been running his agency, Atomic Design & Consulting, for almost 20 years now. I wanted him on the show to talk all things marketing. kind of narrowed it into inbound a little bit but we spent a big part of the episode just digging into the state of digital marketing right now - what's working well and also some really good overall business tactics that so many people miss when they're trying to grow their company, like how to cultivate the assets you already have in your existing clients before trying to get new customers in the doors. We all want the new, right? The new client. The new marketing tactic. And those things are great and important. But there are some tried and true elements to business that really help you grow, so be on the lookout for those as well as some incredible stories that Jackie has of some really unique marketing initiatives he's done recently for his clients. Make sure you check out Jackie's agency at https://www.atomicdc.com/
Tue, October 12, 2021
Ep28 Garrin Bulani - Showing Up Like a Pro On Camera
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Showing Up Like a Pro on Camera I had to add a little layer of style here today because I knew my guest was going to bring it, and he did! Garrin Bulani is on the show today, and with his company, Deskrig, he's helping all of us look better on camera. In this world of constant Zoom meetings, video content marketing, having to network remotely: appearance matters. How you show up matters. I think we all grasp that concept when we go to work or we go to a networking event and (maybe) we show up to our Zooms decently in that regard. But now, how our camera image looks, how the lighting looks, how the audio sounds ... there's a level of professionalism that just matters, whether we want it to or not. If you embrace it and you level up your game in that area, it can be an incredible competitive advantage. Garrin walks us through some of the ways he helps people with all of this, not just the technical setup but actually walking them through how to show up better on camera, create content, all of that. But we also dig into several areas that you probably haven't thought of in terms of using that competitive advantage.
Tue, October 05, 2021
Ep27 Michelle Hecht - Purposeful Reinvention
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Purposeful Reinvention I'm so excited to bring you this interview with Michelle Hecht. She is an incredible salesperson who has gone all-in on answering that "pull" from inside to finally own her superpower of teaching and guiding people on the "human" aspect of selling and doing business. I am so grateful to Michelle for allowing this conversation of reinvention to go to the deep level it deserves. Starting over (better said: "moving to your next level") is hard. There's no way around it so why not approach it with that mindset and take it step by step in order to avoid the overwhelm that can come so easily as a result. Michelle gives us insights on how to take that first step of reinvention, embracing your true self, and the importance of listening to that inner calling.
Thu, September 30, 2021
Ep26 JP Clement - Using the Power of Data for Marketing Innovation
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Innovating Your Marketing with Data. I'm excited to bring you this interview with JP Clement. He is the CEO of Boomtime, a digital marketing agency with a hyperfocus on data. They are data centric in everything they do from the time a client comes on board, all the way through a campaign through, to six months down the road to the wrap-up of a client engagement and really digging into it. So many of the insights around their approach just blew me away. One of the biggest, though, was how they tell a story around the data, both internally and with their clients. Data is great, but without the context of how it applies to your business and what to do with it, it's not much of an asset. And another really impressive aspect of their agency is their internal proprietary software - Fuse. It's a marketing differentiator, which we get into, but also, it's used to run their entire agency and is why they can do so as efficiently as they do. And we just have a blast talking marketing like we did offline after connecting a couple of weeks ago on LinkedIn. So enjoy two marketing nerds kind of geeking out and diving deep on the power of using data to exponentially grow your marketing results.
Tue, September 14, 2021
Ep25 Chris M Walker - Fast-Action as a Competitive Advantage
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Using Fast-Action as a Competitive Advantage The great Chris M. Walker is on the show today! Chris is a powerhouse in the world of search engine optimization with his Superstar SEO brand and Superstar Academy. But in the last couple of years he has expanded his entrepreneurial empire rapidly. In fact that's what I want to talk to him about today - the speed of that expansion and how he's done it. From starting a massive freelancer marketplace, Legiit, to expanding that recently with Legiit Leads, Audiit, ContentPress, and a recent acquisition of Snapt. I'm so impressed with who Chris is - from his strong work ethic to how much he cares for other people. I had the good fortune to have Chris on The Jason Croft Show a few years ago and I've been ecstatic to see his rapid growth as he applies that drive to every business he starts. We dig into: Building a two-sided marketplace. Starting a new company/offering to grow an existing one. The pros and cons of adding a SaaS solution to your business. The critical skills needed to scale from freelancer to business owner. Make sure you check out this episode and then reach out and connect with Chris to see how one of his many brands can help your company.
Thu, September 09, 2021
Ep24 David Shaw - Innovating with the Department of Defense
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Innovating with the Department of Defense You probably aren't having daily conversations around spiral-based signal modulation. But I promise you, once you grasp the size of the impact it can have on our world, you're going to sit up and take notice. David Shaw is on the show today. He is a co-founder and the Chief Commercialization Officer at Astrapi, a National Science Foundation-funded company that is the leader in this revolutionary method of communication, spiral-based signal modulation. Astrapi's tech isn't some incremental improvement on the speed and security of our communication technologies. This is a complete shift at the core of all of it. Besides being a great guy I've had the good fortune to know for several years now, I wanted to bring David on the show to share this incredible tech Astrapi is building, plus dig into what it's like as a "dual-use" company: servicing both the private sector and the US Government. David walks us through the pain points and the benefits to working with the government and when a company should consider doing so.
Tue, August 31, 2021
Ep23 Robin Alex - Scaling the Unscalable in Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Scaling the Unscalable As entrepreneurs running a single business, we're already pulled in multiple directions in our business and it's an ongoing struggle to carve out time for ourselves, our families, and our friends. So what happens when you have that next big idea or you're presented with that next opportunity and it's something you just can't let go of? We've brought one of our favorite people, Robin Alex on to talk about just that. While running his agency, Innovate Fast, over the last few years, he's also co-founded and rapidly grown one of the hottest software solutions to hit the marketing space - HighLevel. In our second "HighLevel" episode, Robin helps us dig into what marketing agencies should really be offering the marketplace and how offering a SaaS solution can be a powerful aspect of that which can help generate "clients for life".
Wed, August 18, 2021
Ep22 Shaun Clark - Dominating in SaaS with Focused Intention
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Dominating an Industry with Focused Intention Shaun is a Co-founder of HighLevel, a full suite of white-label software solutions specifically for agencies. Johnathan and I recorded this episode with Shaun Clark a few months ago. The good thing about the delay in getting this episode out is that so many of the features we discuss with Shaun that are such game-changers to the industry are now out and being adopted at a massive rate. Shaun and his partners will tell you: Community is everything. Yes, Shaun and the HighLevel team work tirelessly and have incredible focus. But they made a purposeful decision early on to aim much of that focus on their community of agency owners. They made sure that they did everything they could to help their clients win. And their clients have felt it every step of the way. That's a big part of why they've had the phenomenal growth they have in such a short amount of time.
Wed, March 10, 2021
Ep21 Will Crozier - The Life-Changing Power of Capital
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = The Life-Changing Power of Capital Will Crozier first created great wealth with real estate in Dallas, TX - building a lifestyle many would dream of. Then, in 2018, he shoved that life into a shipping container and moved with it to Manila. With his project Angel Capitalist, he's providing life-changing surgeries to children all over the Philippines, he's bought and is expanding an orphanage, finds and funds small businesses, and is leveraging his massive network back in Texas to give even more. We have been so impressed with what Will has done and the impact he's had over there, but he stressed to us how much he sees himself as just an easy-going, selfish guy that is doing all of it because he has fun doing it. We think that's probably the best kind of "selfish" there is. He was also very purposeful in stressing the point that you don't have to wait until some "magic day" that you have millions of dollars in the bank to go somewhere and have the impact he's had. You can live with the freedom you want and change the lives you want to change with such a small amount of money. We urge you all to reach out to Will today and help him expand his reach with Angel Capitalist.
Fri, March 05, 2021
Ep20 Craig Severinsen - Being a Great Leader to Be Great at Sales
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Being Great at Sales Means Being a Great Leader Craig Severinsen is an incredible business coach who guides his clients on how to sell higher-ticket packages and do it from a place of confidence. He shows them how to go from being a service provider to being a business resource to their clients. Johnathan and I dig deep with Craig on the importance of showing up as a leader in your industry in order to truly serve your clients. We cover that and a flood of other juicy topics: - Providing a result vs. providing a service. - Operating as a leader now, not "someday". - Stepping into the role of being an expert. - Signing up for being an entrepreneur is signing up for a lifetime of self-development. - Asking the tough questions during a sales call.
Thu, March 04, 2021
Ep19 Joel Lalgee - Building a Meaningful Presence on LinkedIn
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Building a Meaningful Presence on LinkedIn Through purposeful, consistent action on LinkedIn, Joel Lalgee has built a huge network and massive engagement on just about every post he puts out. But he'll be the first to tell you that none of that matters nearly as much as the meaningful conversations he has every day with the people in that network. In fact, the reason he was able to grow so much on the platform is by putting himself out there fully and making those meaningful connections his priority. That comes through in his posts and in our interview in this episode. And now Joel is helping recruiters and business owners implement the same approach to grow on there as well. Joel shared with Johnathan and me the real power behind standing out on LinkedIn or any platform, how to turn that into quality inbound leads, and make some incredible connections with people along the way. And a big thank you to Joe Mangano for introducing us!
Wed, March 03, 2021
Ep18 John Hill - Avoiding Entrepreneurial Blind Spots
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Avoiding Entrepreneurial Blind Spots With twenty years in sales and a passion for developing systems, John Hill is a big fan of asking the right questions. He's now worked with enough entrepreneurs and sales professionals to realize that so many of them are the exact opposite - they avoid systems whenever possible and struggle to even discover what they don't know. This is where John has been able to bring his superpowers to the game of business and help so many of those folks find their blind spots and then put together simple and powerful frameworks to move through them. John admits that he's not "wired to be a salesperson" in the traditional sense. But, as Matthew Pollard teaches, introverts and those who aren't the stereotypical "outgoing salesperson", have tremendous advantages when they build and operate from systems. I can't express how much fun we had in this episode. We could talk with John every day. We dive into a whirlwind of other topics: - The power of journaling. - How the words you say are important, but the way you say them is much more important. - His daily accountability show with the great Jake Jordan. - How a coach can make all the difference - but only if the dynamic is right. - The best gameshow we'd all like to watch. - And why it's the best time to be in business right now.
Tue, March 02, 2021
Ep17 Cheri Garcia - Being Open for Second Chances
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Being Open for Second Chances These days, the words "vulnerability" and "authentic" get thrown around as buzz words that we can lose sight of how important the actual meaning is behind each one. Our guest on the show today was the motivation behind doing an episode around this topic. Cheri Garcia is the epitome of how someone not only allows herself to be vulnerable by sharing her journey, but she weaves this idea throughout her personal life, her business, and for the benefit of others. She's an inventor, a PR specialist, a strong entrepreneur, and a successful consultant. We learn all about how she's changed her life by sharing her unfiltered truth, and how she's changing the lives of so many others going through recovery and with criminal backgrounds with Cornbread Hustle, a staffing agency for second chances.
Tue, March 02, 2021
Ep16 William Kopera - Purpose-Driven Profits
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Purpose-Driven Profits William Kopera's origin story is like something from a movie. From growing up in South Africa and DJ'ing as a teenager to being a top club promoter in Dallas before he was legally allowed in those clubs - William has built a career around truly connecting with people and taking bold action. After a successful stretch at Drai's in Las Vegas, William is now taking those skills and applying them to his own marketing agency. He shares with Johnathan and me who he is looking to work with and how identifying that can make all the difference.
Wed, February 03, 2021
Ep15 Tyler Bossetti - Leveraging Credit for Financial Freedom
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Leveraging Credit For Freedom The word credit can summon feelings of anxiety, nervousness, and embarrassment. But, used correctly it can be the key to the expansion of our businesses and ultimately the financial freedom so many of us seek. Tyler Bossetti is the Co-founder of 0 Percent, which helps businesses get strategic financing, helping thousands of people leverage credit to change their lives. We dig into how critical it is to invest in income-generating assets, the power of discipline in everything you do, and why forced adversity can be your greatest ally. Make sure you connect with Tyler to leverage the immense power of credit in your life and business.
Thu, January 28, 2021
Ep14 Ryan Morgan - The Power of Automated E-Commerce
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Automating eCommerce We all know the explosive growth e-commerce has been experiencing and that we "probably should be doing something" to take advantage of it. But where do you start? The idea of building a store and marketing it and what the heck do you sell? Our guest on the show today, Ryan Morgan, walks Johnathan and me through exactly how you can get started in this industry and how what he's offering to his clients at All Done Consulting - a hands-off approach that you can invest in see a return over time. This episode is a good primer for anyone interested in getting rolling in e-comm with the insight that you can started faster than you probably thought possible.
Thu, January 14, 2021
Ep13 Brad Benton - Custom Solutions to Win Over Your Clients
Strategy + Action = Custom Solutions to Win Over Your Clients Brad Benton is extraordinary at walking into a company and saving them massive amounts of money with his Managed Print & IT solutions at Xcel Office Solutions. Now more than ever, those dollars that Brad can help a company "find" are allowing companies to avoid layoffs and in some cases even keep their doors open. Adding to that, so many of businesses today have been forced into remote working situations but still have to comply with all of the same regulations. That's a massive undertaking that Brad and his team are helping those businesses implement in order to make that transition without skipping a beat. He walks Johnathan and me through great examples of companies he's helped and how his team's incredibly thorough assessments reveal intricate levels of data that can make a company's technology system an efficient machine.
Thu, December 17, 2020
Ep12 Brian Jenkins - Business Growth Through Personal Expansion
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Business growth through personal expansion - we’re talking about how your business may be destroying your life. Brian Jenkins is on a mission to empower high-achieving people with big goals and who strive to be the stellar version of themselves. As a resident of the Canary Islands, he has a deep passion for promoting the growth in human potential. He finds over and over again that even when someone has achieved some success in business, a lot of times other areas are being neglected and fall apart - which ultimately will circle back and bring down the business as well. One of the core secrets that make him such an effective coach to help those folks is that he's coaching himself ... from years ago. You see, Brian can guide his clients through the brutal, messy parts of themselves to get to the other side because he's been exactly where they are. And he got himself to the other side first. Being vocal with those experiences not only helps him attract those folks needing help, but it earns him an immense amount of trust with them as well.
Mon, December 14, 2020
Ep11 Jaime Filer - Building Your Self-Worth to Grow Your Business
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Building Your Self-Worth to Grow Your Business Our guest on the show today has trained over 1,500 clients over the course of 14 years. Every type of body, fitness goal, and/or competition type. Her specialty is creating high intensity, fat burning and/or muscle building workouts for you. Whatever your goal, she creates a custom program to get you there. But what Jaime Filer does for her clients goes so far beyond the physical. She understands how to get to the core of what has been holding you back and unlocking the change you’ve been searching for. Her company is Jaime Filer Fitness and she is on the show to help us discover that link between your health, your self-worth, and unlocking your power to build your business. Johnathan and I had a blast getting to know Jaime and understand how she has taken her incredible skill set and turned it into a thriving, multi-tiered powerhouse of a business.
Thu, December 10, 2020
Ep9 Bobby Stocks - Going All-In for Explosive Growth
In this episode, Strategy + Action = Going All-in for Explosive Growth. Strap in and start taking notes. Johnathan and I are bringing you a Masterclass in entrepreneurship with Bobby Stocks. From “falling in to marketing” to generating millions of dollars per month in multiple endeavors, Bobby takes us through the evolution of his entrepreneurial journey. He walks us through the painful lessons of trying to do it all yourself and running too many companies at the same time, as well as the help he received to grow from those lessons: his wife jumping in to build out processes and systems and critical coaching that allowed him to start focusing on his zone of genius and let go of the rest. I love where we took this episode and it’s a common theme to a lot of the conversations we’re having - the human side of this wonderful world of business. The messy, hard, “should be easier” interactions we all find ourselves in when building our businesses and navigating our relationships. Whether at the beginning of our entrepreneurial journey or somewhere in the middle when we hit a roadblock - we all need to embrace the “human” side of business and realize that learning how to focus on what we’re good at and how to communicate better, as well as being able to intuitively understand another person - are all critical in life. And it’s important not to get caught up in “I should be better at this”. There’s no shame in needing to level up your interpersonal skills whether in business or your personal relationships. We all need to constantly evolve and build that emotional intelligence. We dig into the importance of embracing problems in business, the core pillars to growing, and learning how to do less in order to increase net profit.
Thu, December 10, 2020
Ep10 John Logar - Performance Mindset and Killing Ducks
Strategy + Action = A performance mindset and a plan for killing your ducks Just launching your business? Wanting to grow and expand your existing company? Here's the recipe: Watch this full interview with John Logar. Take action on what we cover with him. Then, tomorrow ... Wake up. Watch this full interview. Take action. You get the idea. John Logar is a legendary consultant, coach, and agency owner responsible for the success of many of the top consultants and marketers working today. John has built a massive network of some of the most accomplished business owners and thought leaders around. He’s done it by showing up and bringing, useful, tactical value wherever he goes. You see, besides the multi-million dollar agency he’s built along with his thriving coaching and consulting business, I know the heart that John has. I’ve seen first hand the deep caring and commitment he has to members of his Consulting Rocket program, his in-person trainings, and his one-on-one sessions. It’s one thing to have all the answers for the people you work with … but it’s much more impactful when you care enough to make sure they succeed. John is a master at that and it's just one of many reasons he has created so much success over the years.
Wed, November 11, 2020
Ep8 Black Ginger - The Show is Working - Connecting is Our Oxygen
In this episode, Johnathan and Jason walk through some of the amazing stories they've heard so far from their guests, the powerful folks they have coming up, and how this show is thriving as the extension of both of their superpowers - intentional connecting and solving problems.
Thu, November 05, 2020
Ep7 Roberto Inetti - The Power of Speed in Business
In this episode of Strategy + Action = The Power of Speed in Business Two years ago at a One Million Cups event at Nadim Ahmed’s Venture X space in Dallas, TX, I saw our guest stand up and present the concept of his new company, ROBOAMP, and the solution it provided - a massively improved mobile web experience. Roberto Inetti has gone on to build that company up to ten employees, a solid client base, a recent round of funding, and an astounding first place prize at a pitch competition sponsored by mega-accelerator techstars. Johnathan King and I dig into how Roberto and his team have delivered on that promise of a faster mobile experience, the millions of dollars it can make for their clients, and the incredible human benefit that has the ability to affect billions of people around the world. With a single line of code, ROBOAMP can make a mobile site load 400-600x faster, and deliver a beautiful experience at the same time. Even though like Roberto mentions, in “startup time” a month can feel like an eternity, what he has built with ROBOAMP in two short years is amazing.
Wed, November 04, 2020
Ep6 Laura Garza - Winning 2020 with Multiple Streams of Income
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = Winning 2020 with Multiple Streams of Income Johnathan and I had an absolute blast with Laura Garza in this episode. A master networker and serial entrepreneur, Laura walks us through the incredible work ethic and the strategic growth plan she used to build up a huge insurance agency, start an e-commerce business, and even launch an Air BNB property that was booked months in advance after a couple of weeks on the market. Laura is the epitome of focused drive, savvy business owner, and generous mentor to other successful female entrepreneurs. Check out this clip and dive into the full episode to see how she has leveraged consistent social media content and in-person networking to put top-of-mind when anyone thinks “insurance in Texas”.
Tue, October 27, 2020
Ep5 Nadim Ahmed - The Future of Coworking
In this episode, Strategy + Action = The future of coworking. Today, we are diving into what the next evolution of coworking could look like with Nadim Ahmed. Two years ago, Nadim became the first franchise owner of Venture X, with a stunning location in the Galleria area of North Dallas. We talk about what drew him to coworking, the specialty that Venture X offers, and how he’s been navigating the business during Covid. Nadim has already done an amazing job of building a real sense of community in his space. I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Tue, October 06, 2020
Ep4 Roshan P. Vani - Niching Down to Make a Global Impact
Strategy + Action = Niching down for a global impact It takes a sharp mind to start out as an Electrical Engineer, become an accomplished Project and Risk Management professional for a Fortune 500 company and then start your own consulting and management firm focused on guiding lenders and owner teams on global projects. But it takes a powerful vision to only work on projects that reduces carbon intensity in the world. That’s exactly what our guest on the show today has done. With his co-founders at Nexus PMG, he’s truly making the world better immediately for generations to come. Roshan Vani, welcome to the show.
Fri, September 18, 2020
Ep3 Stephen Olmon - Building a Thriving Business Ecosystem
Today on the show, Strategy + Action = A thriving business ecosystem Stephen Olmon is on the show today! Stephen is a former Management Consultant with KPMG and the former Director of Business Development for the healthcare SaaS company, SimpleLTC. I got to know Stephen very well over the last few years at the Tuesday morning coffee meetup, where Stephen co-hosted with me for a while. I am always impressed with the insights he brings to every business discussion we’ve ever had. I’ve watched him guide startups and seasoned business owners alike time and again in those Tuesday meetings, bringing clarity, brilliant tactics, and introductions to the right people to each of them. Now, in addition to being a husband and proud papa of two, he is the owner of Olmon Ventures. I am very intrigued by his LinkedIn headline that simply states, “50 companies by 2050”. I have a feeling that it’s a metric that is strongly tied to the personal business ecosystem that he’s creating, which, in his words is made up of multiple partners, some overlapping, and creating service companies that serve the other companies within the ecosystem. Let’s dive into exactly what that means, the scope of it all, and the strategies you can take to apply to your own endeavors. To link up with Stephen, make sure you head over to https://www.stephenolmon.com/ .
Thu, September 17, 2020
Ep2 John Selzer - Launching a Viable Startup
On today’s show, Strategy + Action = The Keys to Launching a Viable Startup I’m excited to bring you John Selzer to the show today. John is truly the embodiment of his LinkedIn headline - Helping Companies and Founders Realize Their Vision. While broad in scope, that description matches what’s at the heart of everything John does. He’s built a consulting firm, Septariate, around this mission. He’s an executive volunteer for the Prison Entrepreneurship Program to extend the mission to those who wouldn’t otherwise have access. And I’ve watched him live that mission at least a hundred times on Tuesday mornings, helping both new and seasoned entrepreneurs get past a hurdle in their business. So often it’s the “unsexy” things that make the difference in a startup and allow the company to scale - or heck, even just stay alive from year one to year two. When a company gets funded or goes through an acquisition, we don’t usually hear about the CRM their sales team had in place or that the founder “kept his cap table clean”. And because of that, company founders miss so many of the fundamental elements of business that investors look for and that keep a company in business. John not only has the knowledge to guide startups through these fundamentals, he does everything he can to help as many of them as possible, conveying that knowledge in a way they can understand. And last but not least, when you need sarcastic comments thrown into any public gathering, this is the guy to call. Welcome to the show, John Selzer.
Tue, September 08, 2020
Ep1 Raj Daniels - Building a World-class Network
On Ep1 with Raj Daniels, Strategy + Action = A massive network and becoming a world-class Connector. We’re honored to have Raj Daniels on the first episode of Strategy + Action. He is the perfect person to speak to our topic today of building a meaningful, strong network of people and how that turns into a bigger life, a better business, and a rich legacy. Raj is currently the Director of Strategic Partnerships and Sustainability Initiatives at Nexus PMG, a management and consulting firm focused on guiding lenders, developers, and owner teams through every phase of capital infrastructure projects. As part of his role there, Raj has started the Bigger Than Us podcast. Nearing 100 episodes, he is talking to leaders at companies like Lyft and Kickstarter, as well as founders of global organizations changing the face of energy. Raj brings a perspective born from creating success in so many areas, from growing up running stores with his family in London, to being a strategy consultant for numerous companies; investing in real estate, being the founder and CEO of a SaaS company built entirely around bringing people together offline, running a weekly blog, and now a published author of the book, For You, From Me . Above all of those things is his role as a husband and a purposeful and intentional father of three girls. Raj is the epitome of Strategy + Action - deciding on a direction for his life and going toward it steadfastly. One day at a time, evaluating along the way and calmly pushing through any obstacle until he gets there.
Fri, September 04, 2020
Ep0 - Introducing Strategy + Action
It’s time to think bigger and make bold moves to create the life and business you were meant for. We’re here to give you the latest in marketing strategies and the confidence to put them into action. We bring you hard-working entrepreneurs starting from scratch and visionary leaders of cutting-edge companies looking to scale. You have a front-row seat as we guide these business owners to a path of massive growth through customized marketing approaches and creative sales initiatives. Welcome to Strategy and Action. Johnathan King and Jason Croft are teaming up to bring you some insights on growing your business by sharing what’s working for successful practitioners across a vast array of industries. We both consider ourselves incredibly fortunate to have a “forever expanding” network of accomplished, driven people who are growing businesses of their own, taking companies to new levels, and living lives of constant improvement. We want to share those folks with you, whether they’re entrepreneurs we’ve known for years or some of the industry leaders we’re meeting every day. With this show, we are taking the medium beyond simply bringing people on to tell their stories. We want you to experience what we’ve been able to: getting their insights and expertise around what makes them great. So, each episode will focus on a valuable topic, industry practice, or unique look at what’s going on in the world. We’ll dig into the “meat" of the topic with our guest each week to get insider knowledge that allows you to look at it a brand new way. Upcoming episodes with Raj Daniels, John Selzer, Stephen Olmon, and Nadim Ahmed will all leave you better than you were. Thanks in advance for supporting the show.
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