Unpolished MBA: Recent Episodes
Unpolished MBA
Entrepreneurs are sometimes called "unpolished" because they are scrappy and unconventional when starting a business. On this podcast, we speak with entrepreneurs and innovators. Some went to Business School and have a formal MBA degree while others don't. Did it make a difference? They share the answer to that as well as other pieces of wisdom.
To listen to all episodes or apply to become a guest, go to www.unpolishedmba.com
Wrapping up Season 11 of Unpolished MBA.
Lesson of 2025: People may appear kind/nice/assertive/confident and be ill-intentioned and cut-throat in business.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comFollow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
In this episode, we're joined by Sabeen Abbas, founder of Hatch Line Consulting, to unpack what it really means to turn product strategy into action in the CPG and food and beverage world.
Sabeen shares how she transitioned from corporate America to entrepreneurship just one year ago, why she chose to focus on CPG, and how she uses decision frameworks and stakeholder clarity to help founders and leadership teams stop stalling and start moving.
They dig into the reality that “strategy” is often misunderstood, and that what leaders call “too tactical” is sometimes the exact mechanism required to execute.
Sabeen explains her approach to fractional product and commercial leadership, why the shelf is where the truth lives in CPG, and how a company’s packaging decision is never just design, it is context, category dynamics, and buyer and consumer behavior.
Key takeaways and insights
- Entrepreneurship is not always a side hustle story. For some people, it starts when they are ready to own their own hamster wheel instead of running on someone else’s.
- In CPG, product strategy is inseparable from retail reality. The shelf context and category are part of the strategy, not an afterthought.
- Decision-making is a leadership skill. Delaying decisions creates momentum and focus problems across the organization.
- Stakeholder management drives execution. Many “contradictions” in meetings are actually stakeholder pressure playing out in real time.
- A useful rule of thumb for options: if you only have two, you have not thought hard enough. If you have a hundred, you have not filtered. Aim for a strong option C.
- “Strategy” is getting a bad reputation because some leaders have never learned how to connect strategy to action. Good strategy is operational, not performative.
Follow Sabeen AbbasLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabeenabbas/
Company: Hatch Line Consulting https://www.hatchline.co/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Episode Details:Capitalism is under pressure and everyday people can feel it.
Rising prices from tariffs, fights over healthcare, shrinking trust in institutions and the rapid advance of AI have people questioning whether the system still works for them.
In this conversation, Monique Mills sits down with Douglas Stevens, professor of accountancy at Georgia State University and author of In Search of a Moral Foundation for Capitalism.
Together they unpack how economic theory narrowed into the “greedy, lazy” view of human behavior and what past thinkers can teach us about rebuilding a moral foundation for modern capitalism.
Follow Douglas Stevens Ph.DOn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-stevens-58b503126/
His book "In Search Of A Moral Foundation For Capitalism" can be found on Amazon at https://a.co/d/9hMtGp3
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode, Andy Goldstrom of Midcourse Advisors joined us. He has a remarkable track record of building and exiting two Inc. 5,000 companies to Fortune 50 buyers.
Andy shares the powerful difference between mere growth and true scaling.
In this episode, you will learn:
- What Andy’s first two fast-growth companies were and how they disrupted their industries.
- The first cracks Andy typically sees in a company trying to scale too fast
- Why focus is the absolute key to scaling, and how a lack of it causes business owners to spend money on fragmented marketing or adding new services when they have "holes in their current bucket".
- How to build the "business muscle" for people who are great at their craft, but haven't been to business school.
- The two things that often unlock significant growth
- Andy’s three-part framework for success in business
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Andy GoldstromLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andygoldstrom/
Company - Midcourse Advisors: www.midcourseadvisors.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
On this episode, Dr. Julie Gurner, executive performance coach and author of the Ultra Successful Substack newsletter, to unpack one of the most misunderstood traits in leadership: assertiveness.
Most people equate assertiveness with rudeness — especially when it comes from women. But as Dr. Gurner explains, assertiveness is simply clarity — the opposite of expecting people to read your mind. The two discuss how emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and ownership separate high performers from those who stay stuck in their comfort zones.
- Why being assertive isn’t the same as being abrasive
- How fear of judgment keeps professionals from being direct
- The myth of “micromanagement” and what clarity actually looks like
- How emotional intelligence shapes perception of leadership styles
- Why clarity builds trust faster than politeness ever will
- The danger of surrounding yourself with excuse-makers
- Why growth plateaus are rarely caused by markets — and usually by mindsets
Dr. Gurner also dives into limiting beliefs and the power of an internal locus of control, showing how elite performers take total ownership of outcomes — good or bad. Monique adds her own experiences leading teams across industries, from engineering to beauty and wellness, highlighting the real-world tension between intention, perception, and leadership maturity.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Dr. Julie GurnerOn Substack: https://substack.com/@drgurner
Website: https://ultrasuccessful.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
2026 is shaping up to be the year that separates companies that are just keeping up from those creating what’s next. In this forward-thinking solo episode we break down the trends, technologies, and shifts that will define business success in the near future.
We dive into why many employees—though excellent at their roles—don’t understand the business behind what they do, and why that lack of understanding will become a liability as AI continues to evolve.
Listeners will learn why the smartest investment leaders can make before the year ends isn’t another software tool—but their people. Developing business acumen and innovation capability across teams can transform an organization’s culture, competitiveness, and ability to adapt.
If you’re a leader preparing your company for 2026, this episode will help you focus on what truly matters.s
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
When everyone sounds the same, trust becomes the real advantage.
In this episode, Lisa McGuire, strategist, advisor, and host of Your Passion, Purpose & Personal Brand, shares how to build a business aligned with your unique identity rather than credentials or trends.
Lisa breaks down how sameness is the recipe for disappearing, why borrowed voices weaken connection, and how authenticity and humanity are becoming the new competitive edge in business. Through her use of Human Design, she reveals the science behind how people are wired to make decisions, find alignment, and experience flow instead of burnout.
Lisa’s message is simple: when you stop performing and start operating as your true self, everything from marketing to client relationships flows naturally.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Lisa McGuireLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-mcguire/
Website: https://lisamcguire.com/about/
Get Your Free Bodygraph - https://lisamcguire.com/get-your-free-chart/
Lisa's Podcast: https://www.podpage.com/your-passion-purpose-and-personal-brand/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Some Topics Discussed Include:
Are you an educator hoping to pursue entrepreneurship? Listen in to learn how an educator-turned-entrepreneur reimagined her career to serve families, schools, and communities with language and literacy. Guest, Lisa Shaw, author, educator, and founder of My Other Tongue joined us on this episode. Lisa helps children and adults learn Spanish and Portuguese in ways that are practical, fun, and rooted in community. She also co-authored a children’s series with her son, Liam’s Faith Adventures, blending social-emotional learning with faith.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Some of the topics discussed include:
- The “mother tongue” idea: Learn a second language before age 8 and it can function like a mother tongue. What that means for accent, ear training, and home routines.
- Home language strategy: How to support bilingual homes when only one parent speaks the language. Why community, events, and real conversations matter more than vocab lists.
- What actually makes you fluent: Routines and patterns you use daily. Learn essential structures first (I need, I have, I go, Do you have… Can you…?) and layer vocabulary on top.
- Business reality: The hardest part is aligning expectations. Fluency is built outside class, so families need goals, accountability, and small weekly habits. Struggle is part of learning.
- Message to women rebuilding: Package your gifts, find your tribe, ask for support, and be courageous enough to share your dreams in the right rooms.
Connect with Lisa ShawRegister for classes - http://myothertongue-21291015.hs-sites.com/fall-spanish-class-registration-0
Tutoring - https://www.myothertongue.com/childrens-courses/p/k-5-tutoring
Business website: http://www.myothertongue.com
Programs and offers:
- Kids, teen, and adult Spanish with thematic, real-life tasks
- Travel Spanish intensives before summer trips
- Immersion partnerships in Mexico with host families
- Corporate/adult practical Spanish for everyday interactions
- Literacy services leveraging science-of-reading practices in English and Spanish
- Georgia Milestones, decoded: Levels (Beginning, Developing, Proficient, Distinguished), why 3rd and 5th grade are promotion years, and how parents can interpret Lexile scores and act fast.
- Children’s book series: Liam’s Faith Adventures on Amazon
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisacovingtonshaw/
Blog: https://lisareneashaw.blogspot.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode we speak with Karla Trotman, CEO of Electro Soft, an electronics contract manufacturer serving industrial and defense customers. Karla shares the company’s origin story from kitchen table cables to a second-generation operation, and how she’s steering through tariffs, supply chain shocks, skilled-labor shortages, and leadership stress.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Karla TrotmanLinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karlatrotman/
Her Company - Electro Soft Inc https://www.electrosoftinc.com/
Karla's Book on Amazon : https://a.co/d/9aHaU7T Dark, Dirty, Dangerous: Building the Vibrant Future of Manufacturing
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Erika Jefferson joins the Unpolished MBA to talk about why more scientists and engineers aren’t at the venture capital table. She breaks down common myths about who becomes a VC, discuss the real backgrounds of investors, and highlight the unique value technical professionals bring to the world of startups and funding.
Erika shares insights from her research, offering practical advice for STEM professionals curious about breaking into venture capital.
Whether you’re an engineer, scientist, or just interested in the intersection of tech and finance, this conversation is packed with eye-opening stories, actionable tips, and inspiration to help you find your place in the VC ecosystem.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Erika JeffersonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikajeffersonmba/
Newsletter: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/venture-capital-for-stem-7345981518642618368/
LinkedIn Group - VC for STEM https://www.linkedin.com/groups/14714659/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
This Episode is Supported By:
TPM Focus - tpmfocus.com
Source to Scale for Manufacturing Companies - tpmfocus.com/sourcetoscale
Venture Capital for STEM - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/venture-capital-for-stem-7345981518642618368/
New Majority Capital - https://newmajoritycapital.com/
In this episode A. Lee Judge—entrepreneur, multimedia content expert, and founder of Content Monsta—discusses the evolution of content creation in the digital age.
Lee shares his journey from DJing and corporate marketing to building a creative agency that specializes in video and podcast production for enterprise clients.
They discuss why starting with “big content” like podcasts and video interviews unlocks a wealth of repurposable material, the challenges and innovations of remote video production, and how Lee’s team helps companies adapt to a rapidly changing media landscape.
Lee also offers candid advice for businesses of all sizes on working with agencies, trusting experts, and the importance of focusing on what you do best.
Plus, Lee gives a sneak peek into his book, “CASH: Communication, Alignment, Systems, and Honesty,” which aims to bridge the gap between sales and marketing teams.
Whether you’re a marketer, entrepreneur, or aspiring content creator, this episode is packed with practical insights and real-world stories about building a brand, scaling content, and thriving in today’s business environment.
Tune in for an unfiltered conversation about creativity, innovation, and the business of content!Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow A. Lee Judge - Content MonstaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleejudge/
Company - Content Monsta https://contentmonsta.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
This Episode is Supported By:
TPM Focus - tpmfocus.com
Source to Scale for Manufacturing Companies - tpmfocus.com/sourcetoscale
Venture Capital for STEM - https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/venture-capital-for-stem-7345981518642618368/
New Majority Capital - https://newmajoritycapital.com/
About Episode 147 of Unpolished MBA(R):
This episode of Unpolished MBA has guest Caroline Dunn—electrical engineer turned VP of Marketing, YouTuber with 37,000+ subscribers, and author of A Woman’s Guide to Winning in Tech.
Caroline shares her unconventional career journey, starting in engineering and pivoting into marketing—despite pushback from peers who didn’t see it as “real” work. We get into how she navigated that transition, what it takes to succeed in male-dominated industries, and why having an entrepreneurial spirit matters whether you’re at a startup or not.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Caroline DunnCaroline Dunn on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinedunn/
Caroline on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/caroline
Her Book on Amazon: "A Woman's Guide To Winning In Tech" https://a.co/d/1hZlS8j
Tired of being the only woman in the room—and still having to prove you belong?
You’re not imagining it. And you’re definitely not alone.
This smart, sharp, and refreshingly unfiltered guide is part memoir, part satire, and 100% done with outdated gender myths that still linger in tech.
Inspired by real experiences (with the names changed to protect the guilty), A Woman’s Guide to Winning in Tech is both a reality check and a rally cry for women navigating the world of startups.
Whether you're coding your first app, running a team, mentoring others, or simply tired of being underestimated, this book is for you.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
🎧 Subscribe & listen on:
Apple Podcasts: Unpolished MBA
Spotify: Unpolished MBA
Amazon Music: Unpolished MBA
This episode kicks off Season 11 with a conversation that every small and mid-sized business owner needs to hear. We’re not talking hype—we’re talking real numbers, real friction, and the decisions that make or break your cash flow (and ultimately your success!).
Monique sits down with Jess, a seasoned executive turned small business advisor, who shares practical insights from his time managing companies from $15M to $250M—and now, helping small businesses operate smarter.
They unpack:
- Why gross margin isn’t enough if your cash conversion is broken
- The danger of discounting without strategy
- What it really means to track a 13-week rolling cash flow
- How small business owners can become both the biggest asset and the biggest risk in their companie
- A simple framework for locating the friction in your business and unlocking growth
- You’ll also hear how these lessons tie directly into what we do at Source to Scale—helping manufacturing companies find the cash hiding in their supply chain and procurement operations.
🔗 Mentioned in this episode:
TPM Focus – Strategy firm for innovation and sustainable growth: https://www.tpmfocus.com
Source to Scale (powered by TPM Focus) – Cash flow optimization for US manufacturing companies: https://www.tpmfocus.com/sourcetoscale
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
🎧 Subscribe & listen on:
Apple Podcasts: Unpolished MBA
Spotify: Unpolished MBA
Amazon Music: Unpolished MBA
This final episode of the ETA series brings everything full circle. If you've been following along, you know we’ve covered the entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA) space in depth—exploring what it takes to buy a business, what can go wrong, what goes right, and how investors evaluate deals.
In this episode, the host breaks down:
- Why acquisitions became part of her growth strategy
- The real challenges of buying a business vs. starting from scratch
- Lessons from her own ETA journey, including deals that fell through
- Why innovation and AI are crucial, even when acquiring an existing business
- How to determine the right path for you—startup vs. acquisition
No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode will give you valuable insights into wealth-building, growth, and business strategy.
Whether you’re an aspiring searcher, a startup founder, or someone exploring business ownership, you’ll walk away with actionable insights for your next steps.
📩 Join the host's newsletter for exclusive insights & updates: tpmfocus.com/newsletter TPM Focus Newsletter - "Unpolished Business"
💡 Want to learn how to scale smarter with AI & automation? Join the waitlist: tpmfocus.com/businessstrategy This is the Business Strategy Cohort of entrepreneurs learning directly from the host of Unpolished MBA.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Most searchers focus on finding the perfect business to buy—but what happens after the deal closes? In this episode, Monique Mills sits down with investor and experienced entrepreneur Mario Montag to discuss what really drives post-acquisition success. Spoiler: it’s not just adding new tech and CRMs.
Mario shares what he looks for in searchers before investing, why operational execution is the #1 factor in long-term success, and the importance of EOS (from the book Traction). He also reveals the biggest mistakes searchers make, why keeping customers is the most critical post-close task, and why the ETA space needs more honest conversations about its challenges.
If you’re thinking about acquiring a business or investing in one, don’t miss this conversation!
Key Topics:
- The investor mindset in ETA
- Key operational improvements that drive value
- How to assess risk and avoid hidden pitfalls in acquisitions
- Why seller notes and earnouts are essential protections
- Lessons from failed deals
📌 Mentioned in this episode:
🔗 The Book Traction (EOS Framework): https://www.eosworldwide.com/traction-book
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Mario Montag🔗 Mario Montag’s Website:https://mariomontag.com
🔗 Mario Montag on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariomontag/
🔗 Fruition Capital:https://fruitioncap.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode, hosts discuss how cash flow can make or break your business. Whether you're running a company, buying one, or just trying to keep your finances in check, understanding how money moves through your business is essential.
Joined by Josh Tejkl, a Fractional CFO and cash flow expert, he uncovers the biggest financial mistakes entrepreneurs make—and how to fix them.
He breaks down how to collect payments faster, why cash flow forecasting is essential, and the real difference between Controllers, CFOs, and Bookkeepers (so you don’t overpay for what you don’t need).
If you're serious about building a financially strong business, avoiding cash shortages, and learning real-world financial strategies, this is a must-listen episode.
Key Takeaways:
- How late payments can silently kill your business
- The right way to chase invoices & collect payments faster
- The cash conversion cycle & why it matters more than you think
- How AI is disrupting financial management (and what’s next)
- The biggest cash flow traps in business acquisitions
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Josh TejklCompany -->August Advisory - https://augustadvisory.co/
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jjtejkl
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
NEW BOOK RELEASING SOON!
Jedbmorris.com
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Thinking about buying a small business? You’ve probably seen all the hype online about acquisition entrepreneurship—no money down, seller financing, and easy paths to wealth.
But what if most of that isn’t true?
In this episode, Kinza Azmat, a business broker and acquisition entrepreneur, breaks down the realities of buying a business, the biggest misconceptions, and what buyers and sellers get wrong. We dive into red flags in deals, the truth about business brokers, why most businesses aren’t actually sellable, and how to avoid a financial disaster.
If you’re considering buying or selling a business, this episode will help you go in with your eyes wide open and avoid the pitfalls that many first-time buyers fall into.
Topics Discussed:
🔥 The biggest myths about buying a business (and what first-time buyers get wrong)
🔥 Why some businesses should never be acquired—even if the financials look great
🔥 How to uncover hidden risks before signing an LOI
🔥 Why business brokers sometimes overpromise to sellers (and how that affects buyers)
This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about buying or selling a business.
Resources Mentioned:
- Kinza’s Book (Preorder & Course Access) – Check it out https://www.thechiefrebel.com/
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode, Jed shares his experience of buying and losing a business, the lessons he learned, and his mission to shed light on the often-overlooked challenges of business acquisitions. His forthcoming book, Buyer Beware: Real Stories of Business Acquisition Failure, compiles stories of searchers who’ve faced setbacks, offering actionable takeaways.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of cash flow management and its impact on business viability.
- Why the character of the seller matters as much as the financials of the deal.
- Understanding behavioral finance in the context of business transactions.
- The value of sharing failures and lessons learned to guide future buyers.
- Why traditional vs. self-funded search is a lifestyle decision, not just a financial one.
Resources Mentioned:
- Jed’s Book Presale Page – Sign up for early access and snippets from the book--> https://buyerbewarebook.carrd.co/
- Search Fund Study --> https://hadleyfamilycapital.com/wp-content/uploads/120907-Search-Funds_Death-and-the-Afterlife_Benjamin-Kessler_9.7.2012-1.pdf
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
NEW BOOK RELEASING SOON! https://buyerbewarebook.carrd.co/
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
This episode features Yvette Owo, an acquisition entrepreneur and accountant. The discussion focuses on the crucial role of quality of earnings (QOE) reports in the acquisition process and how they help identify financial discrepancies, whether due to errors or fraud.
Yvette emphasizes the importance of understanding revenue spikes, working capital adjustments, and boundary setting in professional relationships. Practical advice is given on handling client demands, HR analysis, and different approaches to conducting QOEs, including the depth of analysis and associated costs.
Essential business topics such as customer concentration, account receivable aging, and proof of cash are explored, providing listeners with vital insights into managing finances during acquisitions.
The conversation underscores the need for thorough due diligence and the value of engaging experienced professionals to ensure successful business transitions.
Don't miss this episode if you're serious about navigating the entrepreneurial journey with eyes wide open.
Books Mentioned:
- Not Nice by Dr. Aziz Gazipura.
- Set Boundaries, Find Peace by Nedra Glover Tawwab
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Yvette Owohttps://www.yvetteowo.com/
Company: https://www.yoloaccounting.com/ and https://www.cfo-cpa.net/
Twitter: @yvetteowo
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this candid episode, hosts break down the gritty realities of entrepreneurship. From personal guarantees and bankruptcy to building resilience in the face of failure, they leave no stone unturned. Whether you're considering buying a business or struggling with your current venture, this conversation offers invaluable insights, actionable advice, and hard-earned wisdom. Don't miss this episode if you're serious about navigating the entrepreneurial journey with eyes wide open.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
- BOOK: Corporate Turnaround Artistry: FIx Any Business in 100 Days - https://a.co/d/6Mxzb8S
- BOOK: One Day I'll Work For Myself https://a.co/d/4pniLlr
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
NEW BOOK RELEASING SOON! https://buyerbewarebook.carrd.co/
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode hosts dive deep into the realities of entrepreneurship through acquisition (ETA). They explore why buying a business is not the "easy" path many imagine, the tools and strategies to streamline the search process, and the importance of self-awareness and honesty when taking on the responsibility of business ownership.
From leveraging tools like HubSpot, Apollo, and local databases to the nuances of search criteria, Monique, Kinza, and Jed share practical advice for aspiring business buyers. They also tackle misconceptions about small business ownership, discuss the challenges of transitioning into entrepreneurship, and provide actionable insights for evaluating potential deals.
If you're considering buying a business or navigating the world of SBA loans, Keira’s wealth of experience and advice is a must-listen. Plus, she shares her current work as an SBA loan broker and her mission to debunk myths and provide realistic, actionable guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Topics Discussed:
- Why the current economic environment is fueling interest in business acquisition.
- Tools and platforms for finding on-market and off-market deals.
- The importance of defining clear search criteria (industry, geography, profitability).
- Leveraging personal strengths and unique attributes in the acquisition process.
- How industry-specific search tactics differ (e.g., landscaping vs. well drilling).
- The psychological and financial realities of owning a business you “cannot quit.”
- The risks of early exit strategies and misconceptions about SBA loans.
Links & Resources Mentioned:
- HubSpot: hubspot.com
- Apollo: apollo.io
- Simply Noted: simplynoted.com
- BizBuySell: bizbuysell.com
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode of Unpolished MBA, we continue the Acquisition Chronicles series to uncover the realities of small business acquisitions. Monique Mills is joined by guest co-hosts Jed Morris and Kinza Azmat to share stories, insights, and lessons from the trenches of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA).
Hosts sit down with Keira Hamilton, a former high school English teacher turned entrepreneur, who shares her unexpected journey into small business ownership. Keira opens up about buying, operating, and selling a laundromat, and the hard-earned lessons she learned along the way.
From the myth of "passive income" to the challenges of hiring and managing people, Keira provides raw, transparent insights into what it really takes to own and run a small business. She also discusses the importance of building rapport with sellers, why storytelling matters in SBA loan applications, and how luck, preparation, and mindset played key roles in her success.
If you're considering buying a business or navigating the world of SBA loans, Keira’s wealth of experience and advice is a must-listen. Plus, she shares her current work as an SBA loan broker and her mission to debunk myths and provide realistic, actionable guidance to aspiring entrepreneurs.
Key Topics:
- Transitioning careers and translating skills to a business in another industry.
- Debunking "passive income" myths and the hands-on nature of laundromat ownership.
- Navigating SBA loans and tips for first-time buyers.
- The importance of rapport and trust in buying and selling businesses.
- Understand that Sellers can easily withhold or hide information from Buyers and how to navigate that.
- How Buyers should engage with Sellers and develop a relationship.
- Perspectives from an SBA loan broker with advice for Buyers in small business acquisitions.
- Buying 'too much' as an inexperienced professional and the risk to Lenders.
AND MORE!
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just curious about small business acquisitions /Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
- Tune in every Tuesday from Dec 3 2024 through Feb 25, 2025 for real stories and hard lessons from the trenches of small business acquisitions.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Follow today's guest: Keira HamiltonLinkedIn -->https://www.linkedin.com/in/keirahamilton/
YouTube -->https://www.youtube.com/@Keira_Hamilton
Email: keira@arenacommercialcapital.com
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode of Unpolished MBA, we continue the Acquisition Chronicles series to uncover the realities of small business acquisitions. Monique Mills is joined by guest co-hosts Jed Morris and Kinza Azmat to share stories, insights, and lessons from the trenches of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA).
Selling a small business is no small feat, and many owners face the harsh reality that their business isn’t ready for the market.
In this insightful episode, discussion revolves around the Seller's challenges of overall difficulties of selling businesses with Mike Finger of Exit Oasis. They discuss the pitfalls of unrealistic expectations, the role of brokers, and how owners can take intentional steps toward creating a sellable business. Mike’s candid stories and practical advice offer a much-needed perspective for both aspiring sellers and business buyers.
Key Takeaways:
- The importance of creating a sellable business, even if you’re not ready to sell yet.
- Why “two times revenue” is often a myth when it comes to valuations.
- The vital questions every business owner must answer: Are my results desirable? Can they be duplicated? Are they documented?
- How the lack of alignment between buyers and sellers leads to deal failures.
- The emotional challenges sellers face and the critical role brokers play in managing expectations.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just curious about small business acquisitions /Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
- Tune in every Tuesday from Dec 3 2024 through Feb 25, 2025 for real stories and hard lessons from the trenches of small business acquisitions.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Follow today's guest: Mike Finger Company --> Exit Oasis https://exitoasis.com/
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/mike-finger/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode, we kick off The Acquisition Chronicles series the question is answered: What really happens when a business fails? The conversation reveals the hard truths and realities of small business ownership—especially when things don’t go as planned.
We discuss:
✅ The impact of personal guarantees (PGs) and what they mean for your assets.
✅ What happens when you default on an SBA loan.
✅ Bankruptcy: why it’s not the end of the world but still life-changing.
✅ The critical role of cash flow and how it can make or break a business.
✅ Why small businesses get over-leveraged and how to avoid the common pitfalls.
If you’re considering buying a business, taking on debt, or just want to know how to protect yourself, this episode is a must-listen.
Learn from real experiences, real failures, and actionable strategies to navigate these challenges.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just curious about small business acquisitions /Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), this series offers valuable insights to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
- Tune in every Tuesday for more real stories and hard lessons from the trenches of small business acquisitions.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode of Unpolished MBA, we continue the Acquisition Chronicles series to uncover the realities of small business acquisitions. Monique Mills is joined by guest co-hosts Jed Morris and Kinza Azmat to share stories, insights, and lessons from the trenches of Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA).
From understanding culture fit to addressing red flags in due diligence, this episode explores the critical factors buyers and sellers need to succeed. Whether you're a first-time buyer or an experienced seller, this series offers invaluable guidance to navigate the complexities of acquisitions.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Why understanding culture fit is critical for both buyers and sellers.
- Common red flags in due diligence and how to address them.
- The role of empathy, trust, and relationships in acquisition success.
- Strategies for mitigating post-acquisition risks as a buyer.
- Why leveraging investor insights can make or break your acquisition.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just curious about small business acquisitions /Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
- Tune in every Tuesday for more real stories and hard lessons from the trenches of small business acquisitions.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode, we kick off The Acquisition Chronicles series with a deep dive into the complexities of buying and selling small businesses. We explore why EQ matters just as much as due diligence, uncover the red flags and deal breakers buyers need to watch for, and shed light on the untold stories of acquisitions that didn’t go as planned.
Key Takeaways:
- Acquisitions are more than numbers—they’re about people and trust.
- Red flags like inaccessible data and misaligned culture can derail deals.
- EQ and integrity are essential for navigating acquisitions successfully.
Whether you’re a buyer, seller, or just curious about small business acquisitions /Entrepreneurship Through Acquisition (ETA), this episode offers valuable insights to help you navigate the journey with confidence.
- Tune in every Tuesday for more real stories and hard lessons from the trenches of small business acquisitions.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Hosts:
Follow Kinza AzmatCompany --> thechiefrebel.com
Book --> https://www.thechiefrebel.com/book
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/kinzaazmat/
Follow Jed MorrisCompany --> Sunset Coast Partners
LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/jedmorris/
Newsletter --> https://stillsearching.beehiiv.com/subscribe
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Before we kick off Season 10's new series on small business acquisitions Tuesday, December 3rd, we’ve got a special holiday treat for you!
In this episode, stylist Morgan Wider joins us to talk about how entrepreneurs can dress for success. From curating a wardrobe that boosts confidence to balancing festive and professional for the holidays, Morgan shares practical advice for showing up as your best self.
Topics discussed include:
- Why your outfit matters for your personal brand and business.
- Common wardrobe mistakes (and how to avoid them).
- Tips for dressing like a boss on a budget.
- Dressing for the holidays (accompanying video on our YouTube channel!)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Morgan Wider LINKEDIN PROFILE: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganwider/ * COMPANY: Wider Style https://morganwider.com * COURSE mentioned in the episode--> * https://morgan-wider.mykajabi.com/ssscourse (Use promo code PODCAST for 25% off)*
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, hosts discuss the growing threat of AI scams, particularly targeting seniors, and how small business owners need to stay ahead of the curve to avoid falling victim. The conversation goes into emerging age tech solutions, bipartisan efforts in AI education for small businesses, and practical insights into how AI can both help and harm. With real-life examples, practical advice, and the latest policy developments, this episode offers listeners valuable tools to navigate AI risks and opportunities.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics Discussed:
AI Scams and Senior Citizens
- The hosts discuss how scammers are using AI tools like voice cloning to target seniors and what families can do to protect their loved ones.
- Mentioned AI safety techniques: Voice verification codes for families.
Age Tech and AI Developments in Atlanta
- Discussion of age tech startups in Atlanta, including My Flock, a solution that helps families manage financial decisions for elderly relatives.
- Link: My Flock. https://www.myflock.io/
Bipartisan Policy on AI for Small Businesses
- Introduction to the "Bipartisan Policy Center" and the Small Business Artificial Intelligence Training and Toolkit Act of 2024 aiming to provide AI training resources to small businesses.
- Link: Bipartisan Policy Center https://bipartisanpolicy.org/
Insurance Solutions for Entrepreneurs
- Introduction to Opolis, a decentralized employment organization (DEO) providing affordable health insurance for freelancers.
- Link: https://opolis.co/
Direct Pay Healthcare
- Discussion of direct pay healthcare models that bypass traditional insurance companies. Mentioned in the episode is Michelle Cooke, a physician leading the way in direct pay. LinkedIn --> https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-cooke-md
Notable Quotes:
Monique Mills on AI Risks:
“AI isn’t just a tool for productivity; it’s also a tool for fraud if you’re not careful. Small businesses and seniors are especially vulnerable, and it’s up to us to stay vigilant before it’s too late.”
Caitlin Ferguson on Navigating AI Solutions:
“The knowledge is accessible, but discernment still has to be human. You need to know where AI stops and where your expertise has to step in to make sure it all adds up.”
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of COO Pilots: COOPilots.io
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, hosts invite Kacie Lett Gordon to discuss her diverse projects revolving around women-centered media aimed at redefining modern womanhood through storytelling and conversations. She shares her evolution from a corporate VP to founding a media company named 'It All Media' that intersects entertainment, education, and impact, showcasing narratives to reshape societal beliefs and actions.
The episode highlights the systemic challenges women face, balancing professional and personal life, and the revolutionary efforts to change perceptions through impactful media. The discussion also touches on the societal shift towards authenticity over polished perfection, and the critical role of supportive communities
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics:
- The power of women trusting themselves and challenging societal norms
- How It All Media uses stories and conversations to drive systemic change
- The intersection of entertainment, education, and impact
- Balancing entrepreneurship with personal life, motherhood, and self-awareness
Memorable Quotes:
- "Trust women, and women trust yourselves—when we do that at scale, the world begins to trust us."
- "You can be a mess and still provide value and impact."
Follow Kacie Lett Gordon on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kacielettgordon/
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of COO Pilots: COOPilots.io
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, hosts discuss chat with Tas Bober, founder of Delphinium, a niche B2B SaaS digital marketing consultancy with focus on perfecting landing pages for B2B SaaS. Tas shares her transition from working in-house marketing to launching her own consulting business. The discussion covers her sales experience, challenges of ethical marketing, the power of niche focus, and how humor plays a role in her work. Tas discusses how to thrive in consulting, balancing work-life priorities, and the evolving landscape of digital marketing.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics Discussed:
Key Topics:
- Tas’s transition from in-house marketing to running her consultancy
- Challenges in sales and how that shaped her marketing approach
- Niche B2B SaaS consulting for landing pages and digital marketing strategy
- The value of humor and personality in B2B marketing
- How to balance work-life priorities while scaling a business
- Insights on influencer marketing and personal brand building on LinkedIn
- Creating value for clients through strategy and ethical sales
Memorable Quotes:
- "You can't shove something down someone's throat just to hit a quota—they have to be ready for it."
- "Being specific in your niche can make people curious about everything else you're good at."
Resources Mentioned:
- Tas’s LinkedIn Landing Page Resource Hub (available on her LinkedIn profile)
Follow Tas Bober on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tasbober/
Her company: Delphinium Solutions – B2B SaaS consultancy specializing in paid ads and landing pages
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of COO Pilots: COOPilots.io
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, hosts welcome Brandeis Marshall, PhD, who shares her journey from academia to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the pivotal moment that led her to leave a toxic work environment. She discusses how she now helps businesses navigate the ethical and practical challenges of AI and data. Brandeis also previews the upcoming Black Women in Data Summit happening on Sept 14, 2024 and its focus on data ethics and empowerment.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics Discussed:
- Brandeis' transition from academia to entrepreneurship
- The importance of mental and physical well-being when making career shifts
- Ethical data practices and the implications of AI in business
- The Black Women in Data Summit (Sept 14 2024) – Purpose and significance
- Navigating business and leadership challenges with humor
Memorable Quotes:
- "When they ask your opinion but never follow through – that’s when you know it’s time for change."
- "It’s not about the tech; it’s about how we ethically use the tech."
Resources Mentioned:
- Black Women in Data Summit 2024 – Learn more here
- Brandeis Marshall also appeared on UMBA Episode 083 here
Follow Brandeis Marshall on LinkedIn---> https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandeis-marshall/
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of COO Pilots: COOPilots.io
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
This episode tackles critical questions about generating qualified leads, establishing effective sales strategies, and the importance of having a definitive business plan established by leadership.
Additionally, there is an in-depth discussion on methods to find RFP opportunities, especially when you need to quickly development opportunities for revenue.
They also discussed the significance of continuously assessing the business environment using the PESTEL framework and other business tips.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics Covered:
- Caitlin’s experience with international NGOs and how that shaped her business journey
- The importance of positioning, vision, and structure in building scalable sales processes
- Sales strategies: cold outreach, networking, and balancing efforts
- Revenue engines: ensuring predictability and scalability in your business model
- How empathy plays a vital role in business leadership and team performance
- Real-world advice for dealing with lean financial times and building sustainable growth strategies
- Opportunities for consultants and solopreneurs through RFP platforms like Bonfire and Catalant
- Using the PESTEL framework for continuous business risk assessment
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleFollow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, hosts discuss the challenges women face in balancing work and family, especially with the increasing return-to-office mandates and how many are turning to entrepreneurship instead of remaining in Corporate environments.
They emphasize the importance of recognizing that business success is attainable for everyone, despite feelings of imposter syndrome. The episode also talks about the relevance of blogs in the age of generative AI, the strategic use of content, and the value of well-planned business strategies.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleKey Topics Discussed:00:01:48: Discussion on women going solo in business due to family responsibilities and return-to-office mandates.
00:04:14: Encouragement for entrepreneurs feeling overwhelmed by business challenges.
00:07:03: Debate on the relevance of blogs and SEO in the age of AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity.
00:11:55: Strategic use of YouTube and other content distribution channels.
00:19:27: Thoughts on newsletters and their effectiveness.
00:22:14: Importance of having a clear business strategy and vision.
00:28:13: Discussion on product development, feature removal, and the importance of aligning business decisions with strategic goals.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode they discuss the pitfalls of relying solely on social media platforms like Instagram for business marketing, highlighting issues like shadow banning. Emphasizing the importance of leveraging multiple distribution channels, the conversation explores successful strategies, including the use of LinkedIn and professional networking.
There is discussion around the evolution of business engagement, with a shift towards in-person interactions post-pandemic, and the need for authenticity in client relations. Strategies for effective pricing, the importance of customer discovery, and successful business models are also discussed, with references to insights from notable figures like Scott Galloway and methodologies such as those proposed by Pia Silva.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustle
Key Topics Discussed:
01:09 Leveraging Social Media Platforms
01:26 The Shift in Social Media Dynamics
01:58 The Value of Authenticity
04:48 In-Person Connections Post-Pandemic
13:47 The Importance of Pricing Strategy
30:33 Customer Discovery and Development
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin Ferguson
Founder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
-Running from August 6th to September 19th
-Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, the discussion revolves around consistent business fundamentals and the evolving approach due to technologies like AI.
The conversation covers the importance of an aligned customer success strategy, keeping customer engagement alive, and the perils of constant comparison in relationships and marketing. They discussed self-promotion comfort for founders, overcoming imposter syndrome, effective sales, and the right ways to reach your audience without overloading them.
The episode emphasizes the importance of building a recognizable brand and provides practical strategies for using ads to grow visibility and trust. The session wraps up with advice on leveraging digital assets, utilizing social proof, and making meaningful connections through platforms like podcasts.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustle
Key Topics Discussed:
00:36 Aligning Customer Success with Financial Goals
01:10 The Importance of Customer Engagement
01:26 The Impact of Social Media on Relationships and Business
01:57 Understanding Market Competition
03:15 The Concept of Recency in Marketing
03:54 Personal Story: The Influence of Recency
06:05 Challenges of Self-Promotion for Founders
07:47 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
09:15 Effective Marketing Strategies
12:27 The Role of Sales in Marketing
13:55 Navigating Digital Marketing Channels
18:15 The Value of Podcasts and Social Proof
19:16 Anonymous Question: Course Sales and Ad Strategies
23:10 Leveraging Facebook for Business
28:02 The Importance of Digital Presence
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin Ferguson
Founder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
- Running from August 6th to September 19th
- Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, the hosts discuss a variety of topics centered around entrepreneurship and the challenges faced by founders.
They open with a light-hearted chat about a sarcastic AI bot designed to assist marketing efforts, before delving into the importance of empathy and constructive feedback in business environments.
They critically examine the 'broetry' style of motivational posts and its impact on struggling CEOs.
The hosts also emphasize the need for proper financial management in growing businesses, the pitfalls of abusive business coaching, and the significance of peer groups and supportive advisors.
Practical advice for first-time founders navigating difficult freelance contracts and dealing with unreasonable clients is shared, highlighting the necessity of maintaining a positive and empowering approach in leadership.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleResources Mentioned in the Episode:
Snarky CMO - a GPT inside of chatgpt.com (yes, it's free to use!)
Recency Bias on previous episode of Unpolished MBA - https://unpolishedmba.captivate.fm/episode/thursday-thoughts-how-recency-bias-effects-brand-perception/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
TPM Focus - Strategy Consulting Firm for Startups and SMBs launching NEW PRODUCTS and/or in NEW MARKETS: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
- Running from August 6th to September 19th
- Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, they take listeners on a wild ride through the strange intersection of Zoom’s ever-evolving (and sometimes infuriating) features, the importance of usability testing, and even some unexpected discussions about psychics predicting the future—both in business and beyond.
The conversation touches on the complexities of pricing strategies, the challenges of changing business models, and why not all free advice is worth the cost.
Key Topics Discussed:
- The quirks and frustrations of Zoom’s (and other B2B SaaS products)changing interface.
- The critical importance of usability testing for software.
- Musings on psychics, their predictions, and the odd overlaps with entrepreneurship.
- Chris Do and Alex Hormozi’s business strategies, and why positioning matters.
- The dangers of relying too much on affirmation rather than actionable advice for business owners.
- The value of paying for expert advice versus scrounging for free resources.
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustle
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin FergusonFounder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
- Running from August 6th to September 19th
- Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
In this episode, they chat with Tato Corcoran, a former Salesforce employee and real estate investor turned entrepreneur, who shares her unconventional journey from corporate luxury to blue-collar business ownership. Tato dives deep into the realities of acquiring a small manufacturing business, dealing with cash flow crises, and navigating the psychological shift from a corporate job to owning a hands-on business. They discuss the pros and cons of "buying a glorified job," and how Tato’s action-first mentality has been both a blessing and a curse in her entrepreneurial endeavors.
Key Topics Discussed:
- The differences between corporate life and blue-collar entrepreneurship.
- The psychological and financial challenges of acquiring a business.
- Real-world tips on managing cash flow in a small business.
- The importance of taking action, even if it means learning from mistakes.
- How to adapt and lead authentically in a new industry.
Resources Mentioned:
- Book: Profit First by Mike Michalowicz https://a.co/d/ieU1uL6
- Acquiring Minds Podcast
- Direct Mail strategies for business growth.
FOLLOW GUEST TATO CORCORAN at: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tatocorcoran/
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustle
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin Ferguson
Founder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
"Hustle & Humor" is a special Summer 2024 series under the Unpolished MBA ® podcast, hosted by seasoned Atlanta-based entrepreneurs Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson. We dive into the realities of running a business with candid conversations, insightful advice, and a healthy dose of humor.
This series is only running from August 6th to September 19th 2024.
Episodes are released every Tuesday and Thursday.
In this episode, strategies for maximizing LinkedIn engagement using simple language and explore the intricacies of effective team meetings.
Caitlin shares her accidental viral post experience and the power of 4th-grade level writing on LinkedIn.
We also discuss the significance of structured meetings, the value of IDEO's resources for teams, Catalyst Cards for brainstorming, and the importance of humor in the workplace.
Submit your business questions at unpolishedmba.com/hustle and we'll answer them in an upcoming episode.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Strategy Firm for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
In this episode, Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson introduce their new podcast series, Hustle and Humor, which will provide listeners with a mix of real talk, practical advice, and plenty of laughs.
They discuss the importance of aligning business efforts for financial goals, the realities of startup life, the significance of effective communication in teams, the intricacies of setting and managing OKRs in early-stage companies and offers insights into operational strategies.
Hustle and Humor Series:
- Running from August 6th to September 19th
- Episodes released every Tuesday and Thursday
- Co-hosts: Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson
01:59 Startup Challenges and Lessons
12:25 Hustle Hotline - Real Questions, Real Answers
We also shared details on: Promotion and Marketing Strategies, Community and Networking Insights, and more!
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustleResources Mentioned in the Episode1. Crystal Knows Description: Crystal Knows is a tool that provides insights into personality profiles based on DISC assessment to help with communication and understanding in professional settings. It offers personalized advice on how to interact with team members, clients, and others based on their personality traits. * URL:* Crystal Knows
- DISC Personality Assessment Description:* DISC is a behavior assessment tool that centers on four different personality traits: Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness. It helps individuals and teams understand their own and others' behavior, improving communication and collaboration.
-
URL: DISC Personality Assessment
-
Situational Leadership Model Description:* The Situational Leadership Model is a framework for leaders to adapt their style to the performance readiness of their followers. It emphasizes flexibility in leadership based on the situation and the development level of team members.
-
URL: Situational Leadership
-
OKRs (Objectives and Key Results) Description:* OKRs are a goal-setting framework used to define and track objectives and their outcomes. The main components are Objectives, which define what you want to achieve, and Key Results, which measure how you achieve those objectives.
-
URL: OKRs
-
RACI Chart (Responsibility Assignment Matrix) Description:* A RACI chart is a matrix used to assign roles and responsibilities in a project. It clarifies who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed for each task, ensuring clear communication and accountability.
-
URL: RACI Chart
-
PMP (Project Management Professional) Description:* PMP is a globally recognized certification for project managers, validating their skills in managing projects, including planning, executing, monitoring, controlling, and closing projects across various industries.
- URL: PMP Certification
16 Personalities Test
- 16personalities.com
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Submit business questions to unpolishedmba.com/hustle
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Guest Co-Host : Caitlin Ferguson
Founder of CEOF Consulting - https://www.ceofconsulting.com/
In this episode we dive into the intriguing world of laundromats with expert Mark Csordos.
Mark, the author of the bestselling book "Laundromat Bible," discusses the reasons behind choosing laundromats, the impact of location, and the shift from cash to credit card operations.
He also covers crucial aspects like customer service, common mistakes new owners make, and effective marketing strategies.
Whether you're considering a laundromat venture or just curious about the industry, this episode is packed with valuable insights.
02:01 Why Choose Laundromats?
02:40 Location and Marketing Strategies
04:11 Financial Considerations and Due Diligence
13:31 Customer Service and Technology in Laundromats
18:10 Common Mistakes and Advice for New Owners
21:10 Reasons for Selling and Marketing Tactics
23:47 Resources and Final Thoughts
Upcoming series alert--->Send your questions in for Unpolished MBA® "Hustle And Humor" Series starting Aug 6, 2024. Go to unpolishedmba.com/hustleFollow Mark CsordosMark Csordos on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markcsordos/
Resources Mentioned:
- Coin Laundry Association - https://www.coinlaundry.org/
- Mark Csordos Website - https://www.markcsordos.com/
- "Laundromat Bible" by Mark Csordos on Amazon - https://a.co/d/4LitOg5
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Megan Bowen, CEO of Refine Labs, joined us to discuss innovative marketing strategies. Megan, a recognized figure in the marketing industry with a 17-year career in B2B SaaS companies, shares insights on common marketing leadership mistakes under pressure for revenue targets, the necessity of organizational alignment, and the importance of high-quality lead acquisition. The conversation touches on organic social strategies, collaborative forecasting for realistic goal setting, and the utilization of data for improved marketing decisions.
The episode is filled with practical advice for business owners, marketing leaders, and those looking to optimize their company’s growth strategies within budget constraints.
00:38 Discussion on Marketing Pressures
01:39 Common Mistakes While Marketing Under Pressure
04:37 Understanding Lead Gen vs. Demand Gen
10:22 Transitioning from Lead Gen to Demand Gen
18:50 Balancing Growth with Budget Constraints
22:03 The Importance of Effective Ad Creative
27:35 Collaborative Revenue Forecasting
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Upcoming series alert--->Send your questions in for Unpolished MBA® "Hustle And Humor" Series starting Aug 6, 2024. Go to unpolishedmba.com/hustleFollow Megan BowenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meganwhitebowen/
Company: Refine Labs https://www.refinelabs.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Welcome back to season nine of the Unpolished MBA®. After a six-week hiatus filled with new developments, the podcast returns with a lineup of remarkable entrepreneurs and CEOs sharing unfiltered business insights. The first guest is Scott Leese, a talented advisor to numerous SaaS companies.
The episode covers transitioning to entrepreneurship, SaaS sales, navigating online scams, and the role of AI in business.
Additionally, we introduce a new series this season called 'Hustle and Humor' being hosted by Monique Mills and Caitlin Ferguson, focusing on the entrepreneurial journey's highs and lows.
For this series, listeners can submit their business challenges anonymously by going to unpolishedmba.com/hustle and we'll provide advice on an upcoming episode.
Episodes will now be released twice a week, on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
01:53 Exciting News: New Series coming 'Hustle and Humor'
02:35 Get Involved: Submit Your Business Challenges
07:16 Journey to Full-Time Entrepreneurship
12:12 The Importance of Brand Building
15:06 Bad Pieces of Advice Many People Get
15:46 Debunking Common Startup Myths
20:32 The Importance of Ideal Customer Profiles
21:13 Navigating the World of Social Media Scams
24:49 The Birth of Thursday Night Sales
30:20 The Concept of Surfing Sales
38:28 Introducing Personal Bots
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Upcoming series alert--->Send your questions in for Unpolished MBA® "Hustle And Humor" Series starting Aug 6, 2024. Go to unpolishedmba.com/hustleFollow Scott LeeseLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottleese/
His Company - Scott Leese Consulting: https://scottleeseconsulting.com
Resources Mentioned:
- Scott Bot - grw.ai
- Surf and Sales in Costa Rica - https://www.surfandsales.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
In this special BONUS episode of the Unpolished MBA podcast, we welcome Igor Belagorudsky, founder and CTO of Fast CTO, who shares his insights on the pitfalls and scams tech startups face when working with development shops. He highlights common scam tactics, and provides actionable advice for founders looking to hire developers or CTOs. This episode serves as a valuable resource for tech startup founders, especially those new to the industry.
00:57 Challenges Faced by Startups and Development Shops
04:35 The Mission of Fast CTO
07:07 Common Scams in Development Shops
16:20 Types of Engagements with Development Shops
23:44 Finding the Right CTO for Your Startup
28:58 Mentorship and Community Involvement
37:43 Conclusion and Contact Information
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Igor Belagorudsky
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/igorbelagorudsky/
His Company is FastCTO https://www.fastcto.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Episode Highlights
In this episode Monique speaks on the topic of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and its growing significance in various business sectors, particularly in tech.
With AI becoming a mainstream tool, she discusses the multitude of applications of AI in businesses and how it leverages data for efficiency, innovation, and sustainability.
Guest, Dr. K, a data-driven growth consultant and business coach, shares her insights on leveraging data and AI transformation for businesses.
Dr. K highlights the importance of understanding and preparing businesses for AI's future impact, advising on data management and the vital role of AI in decision-making processes. The conversation also explores Dr. K’s journey from academia to entrepreneurship, emphasizing her passion for teaching and helping businesses harness the power of their data through workshops and consulting.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Dr. Kruti LedenbauerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kruti-lehenbauer/
Her Company is Analytics TX: https://analyticstx.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode the discussion centers on the changing dynamics in the world of business, especially focusing on how services that were previously offered for free are now transitioning to paid models. It highlights how unexpected charges for services that were once free can alienate users and customers. Monique talks about the importance of distinguishing between users and customers, the impact of shifting business models on customer loyalty, and offers advice to businesses considering moving from a freemium to a paid model. The episode stresses the need for transparency, reasonable pricing, and ensuring added value when introducing paid features to previously free services.
01:11 Understanding Users vs. Customers
03:28 The Evite Experience: A Case Study
08:45 The Impact of Changing Business Models
13:55 Advice for Entrepreneurs on Freemium to Paid Transitions
20:22 Closing Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
In this episode, Mark Bayer of Bayer Strategic Consulting, who specializes in teaching scientists and engineers effective communication and storytelling to amplify their career growth beyond academia, discusses the challenges that scientists face when transitioning from academic.
Mark shares insights on establishing genuine connections, the impact of non-verbal communication, and navigating social interactions within professional settings.
He highlights his strategic approaches to both interpersonal communication and broader public discourse, particularly concerning misinformation.
The discussion also covers the importance of empathy in communication, the role of emotional intelligence, and the practical aspects of engaging with policymakers and stakeholders.
Key Takeaways The Importance of Storytelling: Storytelling in scientific communication helps make complex information relatable and engaging to non-specialists. * Combatting Misinformation: Empathy and understanding the emotional basis of misinformation are critical for effective public communication. * Non-Verbal Communication Skills: These are essential in establishing trust and rapport, which facilitate better personal and professional relationships. * Professional Growth Through Communication:* Effective communication skills are crucial for scientists and engineers to transcend the limitations of technical jargon and demonstrate their broader societal value.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Mark BayerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markdanielbayer/
Company - Bayer Strategic Consulting: https://bayerstrategic.com/
Resources Mentioned During The Episode:
- Book - “How to Know a Person” by David Brooks, exploring deeper personal connections. Amazon Link
- Book - "Influence: The Psychology of Persuasion" by Robert B. Cialdini Amazon Link
- Mark’s Podcast: "When Science Speaks" Podcast Link – This platform shares insights on communication in non-academic careers for scientists and engineers.
- Complimentary Infographic on Effective Storytelling “Five Secrets to Connecting Through Captivating Storytelling,” available for listeners to enhance their communication strategies.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode we hear Mark Sinatra, the CEO of Aspen HR, unravel the complexities of HR due diligence and its undeniable impact on successful acquisitions.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- The importance of HR diligence before acquisition, including compliance risks, benefits evaluation, and streamlining HR processes.
- Post-Acquisition HR Professionalization: Strategies for entrepreneurs to professionalize HR functions, understand employee roles, and the significance of job titles and descriptions.
- Enhancing Employee Benefits which are many times nonexistent in small businesses.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Mark SinatraLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/msinatra/
Company: https://aspenhr.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode Beki Darlin introduces the audience to using hypnotherapy to elevate your empire and gain business clarity. Chaos in business is inevitable, but how you navigate it makes all the difference.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Beki DarlinLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bekidarlin/
Company: SMB Simplified smbsimplified.com
Recommended Resources:
- Book Mention: "Pitch Anything" by Oren Klaff. This book highlights the importance of understanding brain functions in persuasive communication.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In this episode of the Unpolished MBA, we dive deep into the world of pricing strategies with John Ray, a seasoned expert in investment management, banking, and strategic advisory.
John founded Ray Business Advisors to help solopreneurs and small professional service firms navigate the complexities of value, positioning, and pricing.
He introduces us to his latest work, "The Generosity Mindset," a groundbreaking book that challenges traditional pricing norms and offers a counterintuitive approach to creating value and setting prices.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow John RayLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnray1/
Company: https://www.johnray.co/
"The Generosity Mindset" book on Amazon
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
n this episode of the Unpolished MBA, we're thrilled to introduce Caitlin Ferguson, a seasoned expert in transforming ambitious visions into operational success at scale. Caitlin shares her insights on the critical role of a fractional COO and how she assists companies in navigating the complexities of growth, strategy, and operational efficiency. Whether you're a startup finding your footing or an entrepreneur navigating post-acquisition challenges, Caitlin's approach to fostering focus, evidence-based decision-making, and strategic alignment offers invaluable lessons.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Fractional Leadership Explained: Caitlin demystifies the concept of fractional leadership, emphasizing its role beyond consulting to include hands-on team integration and strategic execution.
- Operational Excellence Post-Acquisition: Caitlin discusses her proactive involvement in businesses, ideally starting from the search fund phase through to post-acquisition, ensuring a smooth transition and operational stability.
- Building Trust and Managing Change: Discover Caitlin's strategies for building trust within teams, managing change effectively, and ensuring communication flows throughout all levels of an organization.
- Financial Acumen: Caitlin highlights the importance of understanding the financial aspects of a business, sharing how her background in entrepreneurship as a CPA's daughter and her experience in innovation consulting have shaped her approach to driving profitability and efficiency.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Caitlyn FergusonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caitlineodonnell/
Caitlyn's Fractional COO Services for ETA Entrepreneurs: https://www.ceofconsulting.com/acquired
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Entrepreneurs need more than money for growing their startup or acquired company. Unfortunately, this is oftentimes overlooked by entrepreneurs when investors want involvement in their companies.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
In the episode we welcome Brian Lee Shields, an acquisition entrepreneur and advisor with a remarkable journey through the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. Brian shared his firsthand experiences with burnout, the pivotal moments of his career, and his dedicated efforts to help others navigate the stresses of business leadership.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Brian Lee Shields' Background - How his experiences at Morehouse College and in the competitive world of investment banking shaped his approach to business and personal development.
- The Path to Burnout - Brian discusses the signs of burnout he encountered during his entrepreneurial journey, the impact on his personal and professional life, and the crucial decision to take a sabbatical for recovery.
- Recovery and Reflection - Insights into Brian's year-long journey of healing, including the strategies he used to rebuild his mental and physical health.
- Supporting Others - The creation of a retreat for black men in leadership roles to address burnout before it becomes debilitating, highlighting the importance of community, vulnerability, and self-care.
- Advice for Entrepreneurs - Brian offers practical advice for business leaders on recognizing burnout, prioritizing wellness, and implementing routines that support long-term success and well-being.
Key Moments:
- 00:02:30 - Brian's background and journey into entrepreneurship.
- 00:15:45 - The turning point: Recognizing burnout and taking action.
- 00:28:00 - Insights into the Half Time Retreat and its mission.
- 00:40:25 - Practical advice for entrepreneurs on balancing work and wellness.
- 00:55:40 - The importance of community, mentorship, and setting boundaries.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Brian Lee Shields* LinkedIn: Brian Lee Shields * Instagram: @brianleeshields * Brian Lee Shields' Website: www.brianleeshields.com * Half Time Retreat Information: Brian's website * Self Made Dad Podcast: Link to Podcast
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
This episode with Unpolished MBA (TM) host, Monique Mills, discusses how the gig economy is here to stay, and it's not just for low-skill jobs. For professionals, it's a golden opportunity to leverage their skills in new, flexible ways.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- "I Have Something To Say" podcast with Sami Haimin Marrero Episode 174 w/Monique Mills (Link)
- The expansion of the gig economy into high-skill areas.
- The value of project-based work for companies and professionals.
- The need for entrepreneurial skills, project management, and sales acumen.
AND MORE!
For those interested in learning more about the white collar gig economy, check out these resources mentioned in the episode:
- Forbes: "The Rise Of The Gig Economy" [Link to Forbes article]
- McKinsey: "Independent work: Choice, necessity, and the gig economy" [Link to McKinsey report]
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
In this insightful episode, Yvette Owo--an expert in accounting, finance, and business acquisitions--shares her extensive knowledge and experience in business acquisitions, emphasizing the importance of financial due diligence, understanding working capital, and the nuances of deal structuring.
She also discusses the value of maintaining good relationships with sellers and lenders, and the critical role of a comprehensive approach to accounting and finance in successful business acquisitions.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- The Importance of Financial Due Diligence: Yvette highlights the non-negotiable need for thorough financial due diligence in acquisitions.
- Understanding Working Capital: She explains the significance of working capital in deal structuring and how it can impact the final stages of a deal.
- Building Relationships: Yvette emphasizes the importance of building and maintaining positive relationships with bankers and sellers throughout the acquisition process.
- Comprehensive Accounting Services: The discussion includes the range of services offered by YOLO Accounting, from bookkeeping to complex financial analysis, and their impact on business success.
AND MORE!
Follow Yvette OwoLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yvetteowo/
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/yvetteowo
Company: YOLO Accounting https://www.yoloaccounting.com/
*Become an Unpolished MBA Guest:* https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
The episode's central theme revolves around the concept of being "good people" in business.
Key Takeaways:
- Emphasize ethical conduct and kindness in business interactions.
- Recognize the subjectivity of what constitutes being "good" in business.
- Uphold integrity by fulfilling commitments and respecting boundaries.
- Avoid entitlement; utilize resources like AI for initial guidance.
- Understand that rejections in business are not personal.
- Value relationships for their intrinsic worth, not just for tangible benefits.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionIn this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Jane McCracken, a serial entrepreneur and an expert in the recruitment industry. Jane brings a wealth of knowledge about the current job market, offering invaluable insights for both job seekers and employers.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
Adapting to New Communication Styles:
- Embracing open-mindedness and adapting to how different generations communicate.
Corps Team's Mission and Services:
- An overview of Corps Team's role in the staffing and recruitment industry, catering to startups and Fortune 500 companies.
The Evolution of MomCore to Corps Team:
- The company's journey and expansion from focusing on helping women re-enter the workforce to serving a broader clientele.
Current Hiring Trends and Challenges:
- Insights into the robust yet nuanced job market, companies' right-sizing strategies, and opportunities amidst layoffs.
Focus on Soft Skills and Behavioral Interviews:
- The shift towards evaluating candidates based on soft skills and behavioral aspects during the hiring process.
Utilizing AI and YouTube for Interview Preparation:
- Tips on using tools like ChatGPT and YouTube to prepare for interviews and improve responses.
Job Application Strategies:
- Advice on being patient, thorough, and leveraging networks to enhance job application success.
Engaging Corps Team for Talent Acquisition
Follow Jane McCrackenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-karwoski-mccracken-821227/
Company: Corps Team https://www.corpsteam.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features a conversation with Talisha Shine, a seasoned professional in health tech and blockchain technology. She shares her experiences transitioning back into the job market after a decade, her thoughts on adapting to changes in job search methods, and her passion for Web 3.0 and AI's impact on healthcare.
Follow Talisha ShineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshine/
Her Book Recommendation: "Never Search Alone" by Phil Terry, a valuable resource for job seekers.
Tech Tool Highlight: "Teamwork" - A project management tool that offers flexibility and automation for both internal and external team collaborations.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features a conversation with Tory Kindlick, a seasoned expert in demand generation.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
Career Transitions and Recharging:
- Tory shares his experiences and insights on taking breaks between jobs, emphasizing the importance of recharging and spending time with family.
Networking and LinkedIn Engagement:
- The role of networking in career transitions and how being active on LinkedIn can open doors to new opportunities.
Demand Generation Strategies:
- Tory delves into modern demand generation strategies, focusing on education and the creation of demand rather than just capturing it.
Building Demand Gen Teams:
- Essential roles in a demand gen team and Tory's perspective as an architect within such teams.
Sales and Marketing Alignment:
- Tips for bridging the gap between sales and marketing teams to improve collaboration and overall company success.
AI's Impact on Demand Gen:
- How AI tools like ChatGPT can augment the demand generation process without fully automating it.
Advice for Career Transitioners:
- Tory's tips for professionals navigating career changes, including setting weekly goals and leveraging LinkedIn for networking.
Follow Tory KindlickLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/torykindlick/
Recommended Book: Storybrand (here it is on Amazon!)
Fav Tech Tool: Trello
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features a conversation with Jibril Sulaiman where he shares his diverse career journey, from entrepreneurship to now pursuing traditional employment opportunities in project management, and the lessons learned along the way.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
The Recruitment Maze:
- Jibril's experience with Amazon's recruitment system and how it unexpectedly hindered his job prospects.
Transitioning from Entrepreneurship to Traditional Employment:
- The biases and challenges faced when shifting from an entrepreneurial role to a full-time job.
- Jibril's encounter with a resume coach and her perspective on his hireability due to his entrepreneurial background.
Career Evolution:
- His diverse entrepreneurial endeavors, including tech startups and small businesses.
- His insights into leveraging skills gained from entrepreneurship in other professional roles.
The Power of Continuous Learning:
- Jibril’s approach to acquiring new skills and certifications to enhance his career prospects, including in project management.
The Role of AI Project Management:
- Views on the emerging role of AI in project management, the workplace, and its potential to supplement job roles.
Advice for Aspiring Professionals:
- Jibril's guidance for individuals looking to navigate their career paths with agility and openness to new experiences.
Follow Jibril SulaimanLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jibrilsulaiman/
Personal Website: https://JibrilSulaiman.com
Book Recommendation: The E-Myth Revisited (here on Amazon!)
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In Transition* This episode features a conversation with Amanda Nielsen, a partnerships professional with a rich background in marketing, partnerships, and channel sales, she shares her journey and insights into building successful partnership programs.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
A Career in Partnerships:
- Amanda's experience in managing technology partners and her journey to scaling the partner program at Formstack.
- Insights into the startup-like environment within a mature company.
Building a Successful Partner Program:
- The importance of creating a partner-friendly program.
- Amanda's approach to ensuring bi-directional and beneficial relationships with partners.
Challenges in Partnership Dynamics:
- Common pitfalls in partnerships and strategies to ensure mutual benefits.
- The distinction between partnerships and affiliate relationships.
Future of Partnerships and AI Integration:
- Amanda's perspective on the evolving role of partnerships in business strategies and the potential impact of AI technologies.
Personal Branding and Career Transition:
- How Amanda's personal brand has positively influenced her career.
- The role of personal interests and hobbies in enhancing professional relationships.
THOT Leader Labs:
- Amanda shares about her e-commerce store, Thought Leader Labs, highlighting her creativity and humor in business.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Amanda NielsenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/verydemanda/
E-commerce store for THOT Leader Labs: http://thotleaderlabs.com
Follow her on Twitter: @verydemanda
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In Transition* This episode features a conversation with Robert Johnson, a seasoned professional in user experience (UX) design. We delve into his multifaceted career journey, exploring the intersections of multimedia, photography, and UX design.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
Career Transition and Exploration:
- Robert discusses his initial career as a photographer and his evolution into UX design, driven by market changes and personal interests.
- Insights into adapting to and embracing different roles in the ever-evolving tech landscape.
- An overview of Robert's experiences designing multimedia curriculum and his role as a multimedia journalist and how he maintains his passion for photography alongside his professional career.
UX Design in Different Industries:
- A deep dive into Robert's experiences as a UX Architect at State Farm and his work on enterprise systems in FinTech.
The Future of UX Design:
- Robert's perspective on how AI and digital transformation are shaping the future of UX design.
Advice for Aspiring UX Designers:
- Valuable tips for those transitioning into UX/UI design and product design fields.
Follow Robert JohnsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertjohnson/
Portfolio Website: robertjohnsonux.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In Transition This episode features a conversation with Melanie L. Flores, a degreed engineer with a knack for humanizing tech, making it relatable and human-centric for all to use and benefit from. * Her self-described identity is: An engineer's mind, A teacher's heart, and A gardener's hands.*
Some Topics Discussed Include:Experience in Tech Startups:
- Melanie reflects on her time in tech startups, discussing the dynamic nature of roles and the challenge of finding product-market fit.
- She also expressed enjoying the variety and creative opportunities provided by startup environments and shared her interest in transitioning to different tech verticals like med-tech and senior-tech, driven by a desire to impact everyday lives.
Personal Connection to Senior Tech:
- Melanie shared her personal motivations for being drawn to senior tech, including making technology more accessible and beneficial to older adults.
Professional Transition Advice:
- Melanie offers advice to others in career transitions, emphasizing the importance of actively engaging and demonstrating expertise on platforms like LinkedIn.
Favorite book: "Range" by David Epstein (Here it is on Amazon!)
Her indispensable tech tool: Spotify
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Melanie L. FloresLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-flores/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features a conversation with Brenda Mariah who is renowned for her career advice and is the founder of Push Career Management.
Key Discussion Points:
Addressing Termination in Interviews:
- Brenda discusses the difference between being laid off and fired and how to address termination in job interviews.
- She emphasizes the importance of taking ownership of past mistakes and framing them positively for future opportunities.
Creating a Narrative for Interviews:
- The discussion highlights the necessity of preparing and scripting how to discuss difficult career moments, like a termination, during interviews.
Long-Term Career Roadmapping:
- Brenda talks about the importance of having a long-term career plan to avoid random job-hopping.
- She advises on identifying career goals, understanding the development cycle, and preparing for future roles.
Immediate Steps for Recently Laid-Off Individuals:
- Advice on immediate actions for those recently laid off, including defining desired roles and matching skills to market demands.
Modern Resume Tips:
- Brenda shares insights on creating a modern resume, including focusing on professional summaries instead of objectives, highlighting hard skills, and limiting work history to the last 15 years.
Job Titles and Market Relevance:
- Tips on updating job titles on resumes to reflect current market language and understanding.
Outplacement Services Explained:
- Brenda explains outplacement services provided by employers to laid-off employees, covering their scope and importance.
AND MORE!
Follow Brenda MariahLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachbrendamariah/
Company: Push Career Management https://pushcareermanagement.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features Cameo Doran, a former VP who has successfully navigated a career transition into entrepreneurship.
Cameo's Journey:
- Layoff Experience: Cameo discusses her layoff experience after being part of an executive team, reflecting on the personal impact and her initial reactions.
- Launching Cameo Labs: She shares her journey post-layoff, which led to the launch of her consultancy, Cameo Labs.
Key Discussion Points: Emotional Impact of Layoff: Cameo talks about the personal toll of a layoff, even when it’s not performance-related. * Transition to Entrepreneurship: She reflects on her desire to start her own consultancy, which was put on hold during her VP role, and how the layoff became a catalyst for this transition. Her new company, Cameo Labs, helps tech companies and startups in developing and managing their products effectively. * Challenges of Job Search vs. Entrepreneurship: The discussion covers the uncertainties and challenges of both job searching and entrepreneurship. * Taking Control: Cameo emphasizes the empowerment she feels in choosing her clients and projects, a stark contrast to her corporate experience. * Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs:* She gives practical advice for those considering a leap into entrepreneurship, focusing on starting small and leveraging LinkedIn for building expertise.
Rapid Fire Answers:
- Favorite Book: Atomic Habits (here it is on Amazon!)
- Tech Tool(s) You Can't Live Without: Canva AND LinkedIn
Follow Special Guest Cameo DoranLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameodoran/
Company: Cameo Labs - http://cameolabs.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Holiday Series 2023 - Unpolished MBA Gold: Mining For Talent In TransitionThis episode features a conversation with Gregg Burkhalter, widely recognized as "The LinkedIn Guy." He shares his journey from a career in music and broadcasting to becoming a key influencer on LinkedIn, known for his personal branding and professional networking skills.
- Early Career and Transition: Gregg talks about his early start in radio broadcasting at 16 and later working in music distribution, which was his dream job. However, after the company's bankruptcy and changes in the music industry due to streaming services, he transitioned to a new career.
- Becoming "The LinkedIn Guy": Initially resistant to social media, Gregg was encouraged by a friend to join LinkedIn. After a year of use, he was invited by a large chamber of commerce in Atlanta to conduct a LinkedIn workshop. This sparked his idea to build a business around LinkedIn training and personal branding.
- Insights on LinkedIn and Personal Branding: Gregg emphasizes the importance of relationships in career and business success. He discusses the significance of a well-curated LinkedIn profile, the impact of digital presence, and the strategy of being digitally active. He also touches on the concept of a "LinkedIn Golden Goose," referring to highly connected individuals who can significantly boost one's networking capabilities.
- Advice on LinkedIn Content and Engagement: He suggests focusing on building a professional community on LinkedIn before posting content. Gregg also advises on the types of content to post, emphasizing the value of content curation and supporting others' posts.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Special Guest, Gregg Burkhalter, "The LinkedIn Guy"LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/greggburkhalter/
Gregg Burkhalter is a recognized authority on Personal Branding and LinkedIn. He has helped countless professionals around the world define and grow their Personal Brand using LinkedIn.
Gregg spent the first part of his professional career behind the microphone at radio stations in Savannah, Jacksonville, Charleston, and Atlanta. Following his radio years, Gregg worked in national music marketing and distribution.
Today, Gregg is known by many as “The LinkedIn Guy”. He provides Personal Branding Coaching and LinkedIn Training via one-on-one and group training sessions, corporate and college presentations, and webinars.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
This episode wraps up Season 6 and emphasizes three important points that Monique wants the audience to know:
1) The way you earn money from your skills and talents will take a form of entrepreneurship within the next 10 years.
2) You are still valuable even though technology is replacing jobs.
3) You have options for entrepreneurship, one of which is buying an SMB.
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Stephanie Smith, the owner of Social by Steph and founder of Simmy, shares her journey from being an engineering major at Georgia Tech to becoming an entrepreneur specializing in paid social media ads. Stephanie gained early experience in Facebook ads while working at a startup that was one of Facebook's first data partners.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Budget Constraints: Small and medium-sized businesses (SMBs) often have smaller budgets compared to large corporations, limiting their advertising scope. Despite smaller budgets, SMBs can still employ best practices from larger companies to make the most of what they have.
- Budget Realism: A budget of $500 a month for advertising is considered unrealistic and ineffective, especially for e-commerce brands. For a million-dollar e-commerce brand, a daily ad spend of $40 to $50 is recommended, sustained over three to six months for effective testing and learning.
- Learning Curve: Small budgets don't allow businesses to gather enough data to make informed decisions. Stephanie likens this to a Netflix algorithm that can't learn your preferences if you only watch one movie a month.
- Cost of Inefficiency: Running ads incorrectly can be 4000% more costly than if you know what you're doing.
- B2B Strategy: For B2B companies, the focus should be on sharing thought leadership content rather than direct lead generation.
- Creative Responsibility: Most small businesses don’t realize this BUT they—as Clients--are expected to provide the creative elements like images, videos, and copy, while the ad specialist focuses on running and optimizing the campaign.
- Analytics and Optimization: The real skill comes in understanding the data, spotting trends, and optimizing the campaign accordingly.
- Stephanie has developed a new tool called "Simmy" to allow businesses to manage simulated ad campaigns, enabling them to learn best practices without risking real money.
AND MORE!
Small But Mighty: We’re Unpacking SMB Ad Strategies during this episode with Stephanie!
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Stephanie SmithLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieasmith1/
Companies: Social By Steph https://socialbysteph.com/ ...and Simmy—COMING SOON!
You can also reach Stephanie heythere@socialbysteph.com
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
This episode explores the fascinating journey of Dr. Kenya Oduor, a dynamic entrepreneur and PhD holder, human-centered researcher, strategist, and solution designer, as she shares her path from civil engineering to psychology and entrepreneurship.
She shares her insights on human-centered design, effective communication, and critical thinking in today's fast-paced world.
Listen in to learn about her business, Lean Geeks, and her upcoming coaching program, all aimed at transforming individuals and organizations.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- How Dr. Oduor's educational journey included a shift from civil engineering to psychology.
- How her interest in complex systems, infrastructure, and human factors psychology led her to become an entrepreneur.
- The importance of effective communication and critical thinking skills in today's culture.
- How her company, Lean Geeks, helps clients make data-informed decisions.
AND MORE!
Follow Kenya Oduor Ph.D.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenyaoduor/
Company: https://leangeeks.net/
Self-paced course mentioned in episode https://www.drkenya.co/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Shehara L. Wooten, an accomplished author, speaker, and financial life-planning strategist, is the visionary behind Your Story Financial, LLC. Her virtual fee-only fiduciary boutique firm is dedicated to empowering women and #STEM professionals, transforming their financial uncertainty into unwavering confidence. Shehara holds the prestigious title of CERTIFIED FINANCIAL PLANNER™ professional. Her mission is to guide individuals and families, regardless of their age or asset portfolio, toward financial improvement and the creation of their extraordinary financial success narrative.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Shehara's journey from engineering to Certified Financial Planner and the pivotal moments that shaped her career.
- Shehara's book: In the Meantime: Own Your Financial Narrative--> You can order it here on Amazon https://a.co/d/1jvxQBg
- The challenges with leaving a job that has a non-compete clause in your contract when you're trying to start your own firm
AND MORE!
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Follow Shehara WootenLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shehara/
Company: Your Story Financial https://www.yourstoryfinancial.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- What a search fund investor does and looks for in entrepreneurs
- Issues in acquiring therapy clinics and healthcare practices
- Unintentional billing fraud in healthcare SMB's--(searchers beware!)
- How and why inflation is negatively affecting the SMB acquisition space right now
- Conducting background checks on SMB sellers (please tell them prior to doing it)
- Here is the free download for Business Buying 101 (has resources and Saumil's contact information); no email address needed to download it
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com Follow Saumil JariwalaLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saumiljariwala/
Saumil's Company - Feta Fund: https://www.fetafund.com/
Saumil's Twitter - https://twitter.com/FetaFund
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Why Jay Lee left a lucrative career to become a pastor
- His journey from 10 years in ministry to entrepreneurship
- How churches are an example of the ultimate sales funnel
- Giving away your product for free BUT with limitations
- How to redirect people who only want free stuff
- Being a heart-centered entrepreneur and selling without sounding salesy
- AND MORE!
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Jay LeeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jayleecanada
Facebook Community (IT'S FREE TO JOIN!) https://www.facebook.com/groups/salesninjacommunity
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Startups vs Revenue-Generating Small Businesses
- Twitter Conflict
- College Selection and Ivy League networks
- Thinking Small
- Nick's 10 Companies (and growing!)
- Being An Affiliate vs Having Ownership In Companies
- Raising Kids + more
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Nick HuberLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sweatystartup/
Twitter:
https://twitter.com/sweatystartup
Companies:
Business Brokerage - https://nickhuber.com/
Personal Brand - https://sweatystartup.com/
Self Storage - https://boltstorage.com/
Bold SEO - https://boldseo.com/
Insurance - https://titanrisk.com/
Recruiting - https://recruitjet.com/
Landing Page / Web Development - https://webrun.com/
Overseas Staffing - https://supportshepherd.com/
Debt and Equity - https://bluekeycapital.com/
Tax Credit - https://taxcredithunter.com/
Cost Segregation - https://recostseg.com/
Performance Marketing - https://adrhino.com/
Pest control - https://spidexx.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
- In this episode, Monique shares some insight into the upcoming episode (Ep 085) with Nick Huber that will be released on July 31, 2023.
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- The concerns about artificial intelligence (AI)
- Enlisting artificial intelligence (AI)ethically, equitably, and to serve humanity
- The internal politics at Universities and how it deteriorates the educational experience and outcomes
- Brandeis leaving academia-->here's the Link to 🔥🔥🔥Medium article mentioned in the episode - https://medium.com/@brandeismarshall/bye-academe-142f31fd9446
- Developing researchers with a humanities-focused lens via the AIAI Network in Atlanta
Follow Dr. Brandeis MarshallLinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandeis-marshall
DataEdX https://www.dataedx.com/
Black Women In Data group https://www.blackwomenindata.com/
On Twitter https://twitter.com/BlkWomenInData?t=blSkOp6Gw3EGSUiL_bYZjA&s=09
On Instagram https://instagram.com/blkwomenindata?igshid=NjIwNzIyMDk2Mg==
Article on the launch of the AIAI Network in Atlanta https://news.emory.edu/stories/2023/04/er_mellon_foundation_24-04-2023/story.html
Dr. Brandeis Marshall's book on Amazon- "Data Conscience: Algorithmic Siege on our Humanity" https://a.co/d/4qgrM7m
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include:
- The difference between science-backed coaching and other types of coaching
- Childhood abuse and self-sabotaging behaviors in adulthood
- Exhibiting confidence and authority for success in your career and job search
AND MORE!
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Lori PottsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/loritpotts/
Company: ECB Communication Consulting
(Remember 10% off any service if you mention you heard her on the Unpolished MBA)
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Try out Jasper to help you write and market yourself and your business better Jasper
Welcome to the start of Season 6!
Here's the linkto the complimentary Business Acquisition 101 Insights Guide mentioned in the episode (no email address required to access)
Topics Discussed Include:
- How having a real estate license can enable you as a professional business brokerage or intermediary
- Buying a business from millennials vs. boomers
- Buying a business with home equity, 401K, and SBA loans
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Christine McDannellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christinemcdannell/
Company: The Magnolia Firm - https://themagnoliafirm.co/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
End of Season 5---Taking a 6 week hiatus and we'll be baaaaaccck!
Listen to previous episodes on all podcasting platforms and follow our YouTube channel because we'll start releasing video snippets too!
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Your host:
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- Going from Theater major to an early eBay employee
- Using social media effectively to make space for others
- The book mentioned: "I Never Thought Of It That Way" by Monica Guzman available on Amazon
- How marketing is "benign propaganda"
- Accidentally starting a marketing agency
- The Agency Management Institute
- The pain of laying off people
- Coaching CMOs to success
- Ethical marketing and use of data
- Jasper AI ---> here's our code to try it out for free
- Interviewing Tom Peters, a former Advisor to Steve Jobs
- Building the Silicon Valley 2.0 on the East Coast
- How shaming people online doesn't help change hearts/minds
- ChatGPT hopping on the scene
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Melinda ByerleyLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melindab/
Twitter: @MJB_SF
Podcast: Staying Alive In Tech -https://www.stayinaliveintech.com/
Company: Fiddlehead https://fiddleheadhq.com/
Host:
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include:
- The growth of the creator economy
- Grifting online
- The growth of the Blue check mark
- Rational thinking in B2B purchases
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
**Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/**
Topics Discussed Include:
- Freedom Through Acquisition
- Going from W2 to Entrepreneur
- Buying a cash-generating business with an SBA loan
- How Eric is building a business while traveling across the United States in an RV with his family
- The importance of partner/spouse support in entrepreneurship
- Pepwave - the device used to get internet anywhere, no matter how remote you are
- Using Twitter to build a business pipeline
Follow Eric Hsu - lawyer4SMBSLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lawyer4smbs/
On Twitter: https://twitter.com/lawyer4SMBs
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Using the term "strategic" doesn't mean that what you're doing is strategic. Don't be fooled by fancy words used by coaches and consultants trying to earn your business. We break down how you can tell if the decisions you're making are strategic or not and how to have maximum impact on your business.
Topics Discussed Include: * The difference between plans and plans that are strategic * Playing to win vs playing to play * The book "Play To Win" * Bernie Dixon of Launchpad2X in Atlanta, GA * Forming your hypothesis for your business * Strategic positioning * The What, The Why, and The How in strategic business decisions
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Topics Discussed Include:
- To gate or ungate your knowledge--that is the question
- How people don't value what they get for free, but...sometimes they do
- How gating content decreases your visibility but may increase your perceived value
- The concept of 1000 True Fans
- Tabitha Brown and her evolution from Periscope to being an international brand
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! **Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/**
On this episode, we speak with Amerie Mills, Marketing Strategy Assistant for TPM Focus and Unpolished MBA. She has her pulse on the latest digital marketing trends and shares insights with the audience on understanding Tik Tok and how to become effective in using it.
Topics Discussed Include:
- The different "sides" of Tik Tok
- The importance of the "For You" page
- The different types of "adults" on Tik Tok
- The Tik Tok algorithm and EXTREME personalization on the app
- Steps to business success and effectiveness on Tik Tok
- The best way to approach Tik Tok if you want to attract your desired audience
- How physical attractiveness plays a role in getting views on Tik Tok
- What happens if Tik Tok gets banned?
- Why you need to own something outside of social media platforms for people to reach you
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Ryan Cox joined us on this episode to discuss his winding path to finding his purpose in entrepreneurship. Going from selling Jordans and Jerseys to being a support and accountability coach for fellow entrepreneurs has been quite a journey.
Topics Discussed Include:
- Communication and Influence in marketing
- The 4-day work week (not 4 hour!)
- How not graduating from college may cause a temporary detour on the way to your purpose
- Understanding privilege in today's society
- Celebrating your wins AND taking ownership of them
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Ryan CoxLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanleecox/
Company: Cox Coaching https://coxcoaching.co/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Shieldvonda Haith joined us on this episode to talk about the Corporate politics around having/not having an MBA when seeking promotions. We also talked about her innovative healthcare startup.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- How a person with an MBA doesn't have to first prove their competency to advance into high positions
- How an MBA and the network helps with promotions in Corporate
- The usefulness of an MBA in founding a tech startup
- Her game-changing healthcare startup
- Understanding the No Surprise Act (NSA)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Shielvonda HaithLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shielvonda-haith/
Company: https://brightpay.org/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
In this episode, we speak with Ryan Baker, entrepreneur and Growth Strategy Consultant, about burnout and balancing. We also touched on how using humor on social media can backfire.
Some Topics Discussed Include:
- What is burnout?
- How do entrepreneurs get to that point?
- Balancing competing priorities
- Extending grace to yourself
- Your jokes falling flat on social media
- How you need to read the room and know your audience
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Ryan BakerLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryanhbaker/
Company: Kingly Consulting https://kinglyconsulting.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
This episode airs Monique Mills' interview on the Surf and Sales Podcast with Scott Leese and Richard Harris, entrepreneurs who set up and lead sales organizations for tech startups.
Topics Discussed Include:
- Working with engineers who want to be involved in sales
- How engineers think they know everything
- What will disrupt the future of sales
- How Monique's parents met (yep! of topic but on topic too)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.comText Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/textWe'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Scott LeeseLinkedIn: hhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/scottleese/
Follow Richard HarrisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rharris415/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
In this episode, we spoke with Richard Grove, the owner of a peg board manufacturing company who describes how he used influencer marketing to promote the business. This episode describes how influencer marketeting can be used for just about anything B2B or B2C when done right. We also discuss how family businesses can work well with cohesive plan.
Topics Discussed Include:
- How Anyone Can Be An Influencer (not necessarily those with thousands of followers)
- The Importance Of Audience Engagement With Influencers
- How Richard Used Influencer Marketing For Promoting His Manufacturing Company, Wall Control
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow
His Manufacturing Company -> Wall Control: https://www.wallcontrol.com/
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/
TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com
Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text
We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
This week's guest, Brian Feroldi, is the author of "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?" and a slew of articles on The Motley Fool providing investment advice and stock market analysis. He's now a full-time financial educator online. Topics Discussed Include: Not learning anything about the stock market despite earning a Business degree (shocking!) Why does the stock market go up? Becoming a financial content creator and building a business with his knowledge The joy of reading financial statements (very few people understand this excitement) Who shouldn't invest in individual stocks and why
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Brian FeroldiLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianferoldi/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianferoldi/) On Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrianFeroldi (https://twitter.com/BrianFeroldi) Company: https://www.brianferoldi.com/ (https://www.brianferoldi.com/) Brian's book "Why Does The Stock Market Go Up?" Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
This week's guest is Shaun Chavis, Founder of LVNGbook and an Award-winning cookbook editor. Topics Discussed Include: Pivoting her company from B2C to B2B Her groundbreaking cookbook innovation Well-paying food industry careers for creatives
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode! Follow Shaun ChavisOn Twitter: @shaunchavis Company: https://lvngbook.com On LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunchavis/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/shaunchavis/) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
It's the beginning of Season Five! Woohoo! On the episode, we spoke with Monique Russell, a Communications Expert, and entrepreneur. Some Topics Discussed Include: The Underground Secrets About LinkedIn Shenanigans And Large Followings The Meaning Of Emotional Intelligence And Who Has It Intentional Motherhood And Building Legacy
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Monique RussellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clearcommunicationcoach/ Company: Clear Communications https://clearcommunicationsolutions.com/about/ (https://clearcommunicationsolutions.com/about/) Monique's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Intentional-Motherhood-Said-Would-Easy/dp/0985090022 ("Intentional Motherhood: Who Said It Would Be Easy" on Amazon) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Although this is the End of Season 4 message, Monique answers an incoming question from a listener: "Is it all about the money?" Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Some Topics Discussed Include: How networking and selling are related How to decrease the time to close a sale How to be highly effective in front of customers Why the best-networked person WINS Kirk's proprietary selling model (it's fire!!!)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Kirk BarnesLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkbarnes/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kirkbarnes/) Company: https://transpharmed.com/ (https://transpharmed.com/) and https://iamkirkbarnes.com (https://iamkirkbarnes.com) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include: Equality and Equity in STEM Representation in STEM matters Mentoring Early Stage Engineers Sol "silently saving" the Earth in his daily work as an Licensed Professional Engineer
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Sol RosenbaumLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/solrosenbaum/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/solrosenbaum/)Company: SR Engineering & Consulting LLChttps://www.linkedin.com/company/sr-engineering-consulting-llc/about/ (https://www.linkedin.com/company/sr-engineering-consulting-llc/about/) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include: Monique answers your questions about starting a business (it seems like many of you want to become Consultants so she calls you out) Soliciting strange people to invest in your company Learning about how to fundraise properly from Venture Capitalists
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
ResourcesThe book mentioned: https://www.amazon.com/Venture-Deals-Smarter-Lawyer-Capitalist/dp/1119594820/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1663611099&sr=8-1 (Venture Deals by Brad Feld and Walter Mendelson)https://tpmfocus.com/become-a-consultant/ (Link To Consulting Mastermind w/Monique Mills )
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include: Why and how rubbish gets posted on LinkedIn Why engineers and experts create things that don't make money How startups are similar to a science experiment Why entrepreneurs need to stop charging by the hour ASAP Taking your kids with you to business meetings
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow The Recognized AuthorityCompany: https://therecognizedauthority.com/ Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include: How to avoid burnout as a content creator The controversy about Black hair being considered "professional" in the workplace https://daymondjohn.com/ (Daymond John) changing his style the more successful he became Harvey Coleman and The Organizational Game (https://www.amazon.com/Empowering-Yourself-Organizational-Game-Revealed/dp/1449080340/ref=asc_df_1449080340/?tag=hyprod-20&linkCode=df0&hvadid=312065696873&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15180613668071427262&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9010766&hvtargid=pla-471217768948&psc=1&tag=&ref=&adgrpid=61316180399&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvadid=312065696873&hvpos=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=15180613668071427262&hvqmt=&hvdev=c&hvdvcmdl=&hvlocint=&hvlocphy=9010766&hvtargid=pla-471217768948 (here's the book we mentioned)) Our positive engagement with the "crying CEO" from LinkedIn
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Follow Walter Gainer IILinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/waltergainerii/ Company: https://bosslocksmedia.com/ Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Topics Discussed Include: How MBA and starting a startup are very different How going to Harvard Business School made it easier to raise money for his startup Starting a business during the pandemic
Follow Palash SoniLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/palashsoni (https://www.linkedin.com/in/palashsoni) Goldcast: https://www.goldcast.io (https://www.goldcast.io) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Revenue-Focused Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/) Become an Unpolished MBA Guest: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com) Text Us Your Questions: https://unpolishedmba.com/text (https://unpolishedmba.com/text) We'll answer it in an upcoming episode!
Irit Levin does the stuff that gives most entrepreneurs a headache to do themselves---automation, integrations, and workflow systems. It may sound boring, but it's a gamechanger. Some Topics Discussed In This Episode Include: How Irit opened her business with $100 right when the COVID-19 pandemic began How your content sells for you (if done right) How giving detailed information away for free affects business How social media is "rented" space Several tech tools that you should be using in your business (many are free!)
Follow Irit LeviCompany website: https://www.day-by-day.biz/ (https://www.day-by-day.biz/) On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/irit-levi/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/irit-levi/)
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website:https://moniquemills.biz/ ( https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Trusted Business Strategy for Startups and SMBs:https://tpmfocus.com/ ( https://tpmfocus.com/)
In this episode, Monique discusses the current ability and future of AI tools, particularly in copywriting. Topics Discussed Include:The drawbacks to using AI tools in copywriting Being guilted into not using AI Surviving as a nascent and/or small business owner How you've already been duped by AI tools How people get in their feelings about being replaced by AI tools Using Jasper and getting it for free at tpmfocus.com/jasper
Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ ( https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website:https://moniquemills.biz/ ( https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Trusted Business Strategy for Startups and SMBs:https://tpmfocus.com/ ( https://tpmfocus.com/)
In this episode, Monique discusses bringing on Advisors as a startup founder. She answers an incoming question and elaborates with more information. Topics Discussed Include: Pre-seed And Seed Companies May Need Different Advisors Having Outside Advisors Once You're Funded Why Taking Advice From Too Many People Is An Issue Equity Given to Advisors How Board of Directors Are Involved Creating Balance With Advisors From The Start Going Down Rabbit Holes Due To Advice Received
The FAST agreement mentioned in this episode can be found here: https://tpmfocus.com/fast/ (tpmfocus.com/fast) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Trusted Business Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
Andre Barnes is a senior software consultant who partners with non-technical individuals to help them bring their ideas to market and achieve business outcomes. By translating highly technical concepts for the nontechnical, Andre helps bridge the gap between brilliant ideas and successful businesses. Topics Include:The Concept of No-Code and the Pros and Cons STEM Trained Thinking and Problem-Solving for Business Testing the Market with Your Idea The Different Types of Developers and Languages to Consider Front End vs Back End vs Full Stack Developer How To Engage A Developer to Keep Scope/Costs in Check Founder Mistakes with Developers Technical Debt All New Software Has Bugs
Follow Andre Barnes:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreqb/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreqb/) Website: https://www.andreqb.com/ (https://www.andreqb.com/) Follow Monique MillsLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Bio Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (https://moniquemills.biz/) TPM Focus - Trusted Business Strategy for Startups and SMBs: https://tpmfocus.com/ (https://tpmfocus.com/)
In this epsiode, Monique talks about a little change of direction in the show and what you can expect moving forward. To submit your questions to be read and answered on a future episode, text them to 470-400-8008. Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://moniquemills.biz/ (moniquemills.biz)
In this week's installment of Unpolished MBA, Monique shares some crucial business advice that she has been posting about with her Linkedin community over the past several weeks. If you're like most people who follow the media, financial podcasts, and publications, you know how much time and attention is devoted to the importance of venture capital. Monique is here to remind us that too many founders and business owners become fixated on the pursuit of investors, at the potential peril of their company. The reality is that far fewer successful businesses take on venture capital or angel investments than the media tends to portray. In fact, it's far more important for companies to spend their precious time and resources finding the proper market fit for their new innovation or product rather than continuing to generate unfocused content in an attempt to target venture capital. Many new founders and small business owners have found themselves on this hamster wheel of courting quick cash while neglecting the potential customers and markets that are right under their noses. In this episode, Monique sets the record straight on why this is a mistake and what to do about it! Topics Include: The Importance of A Self-Sustainable Business Myths Regarding Venture Capital The Importance of Finding Market Fit The Need to Stop Advertising to Investors Alternative Methods for Courting Investment
Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's special Mother-Daughter edition of Unpolished MBA Monique welcomes her daughter Amerie to the show to discuss an upcoming opportunity that she will be participating in at Stanford University. Alongside a number of high school students from around the world, Amerie will be studying at Stanford as part of a special summer program targeted toward gifted students in areas of STEM and medicine. In this episode, Monique and Amerie discuss this program while unpacking the importance of college prep and how this opportunity promises to open a number of doors for Amerie in the area of networking and mentorship. In addition to discussing the Stanford program, Monique and Amerie also reflect on a recent trip they took to Martha’s Vineyard to attend a conference held by Bwise for diverse women in the field of medical innovation. Monique was invited to speak at this conference and decided to bring Amerie along in order to expose her to some of the incredible women who were both attending and presenting at the event. In this episode, you will hear both Monique and Amerie’s reflections on the conference and their discussion on the importance of mentorship and strong leadership for minority women in the field of medical research and ongoing innovations! Topics Include: Women of Diversity in STEM The Importance of College Prep How Networking Can Shape Your Future The Need for Solid Mentorship The Future Faces of Medicine
Link to Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-035-augusta-uwamanzu-nna-destined-for-greatness/id1525373601?i=1000544776791 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-035-augusta-uwamanzu-nna-destined-for-greatness/id1525373601?i=1000544776791)
Bwise Website: http://www.bwiseusa.org/ (http://www.bwiseusa.org/)
Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's episode of Unpolished MBA, Monique was thrilled to welcome Farah Allen, founder and CEO of The Labz, an Atlanta based company whose revolutionary new design tools are making it easier for creatives and companies of all shapes and sizes to create highly interactive and immersive web experiences. In this conversation, Monique and Farah discuss the emergence and impending dominance of web 3.0 technologies such as virtual reality, the Metaverse, and blockchain-based applications. Farah describes how new technologies that she and her team at The Labz have been developing are changing the way that companies and creative voices share content and provide unique virtual experiences for potential clients and consumers without the need for cumbersome VR headsets or gear. In addition to discussing a variety of emerging technologies, Farah also shares the challenges of developing new platforms in a rapidly changing world and how the ability to reinvent or adapt your ideas or innovations is a must-have skill for any business leader or entrepreneur competing in today's market. Topics Include: The Future of Websites & Social The Dawning of Web 3.0 How Virtual Is Changing Business Designing Platforms for the Future The Importance of Continued Innovation The Challenges of Developing New Platforms
Connect with Farah: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/farahallen (https://www.linkedin.com/in/farahallen) The Labz Website: https://www.thelabz.com/ (https://www.thelabz.com/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's episode of the Unpolished MBA, Monique speaks with Mike DiCioccio about his unique journey from corporate sales to entrepreneurial podcast innovator. Mike is the Founder, President, and Head Producer for Social Chameleon, a podcast production, distribution, and content agency that focuses on producing, distributing, and marketing best-in-class podcasts and media for a range of corporate and private clients. In this conversation, Mike shares his passion for creativity, love of music & media, and vision for the future of the podcast industry both for entrepreneurs and small businesses. Mike also shares how his faith and inspiration from fellow content creators helped him overcome challenging times when his future was uncertain. In addition to leading Social Chameleon, Mike is the host of MIKE’D UP!, a podcast that showcases inspiring entrepreneurs, award-winning authors, thought leaders, business & mindset coaches, peak-performers, entertainers, and other talented individuals who join the show to share their personal stories and deliver key insights to provide the ammo needed to level up and achieve your greatest dreams. Topics Include: Setting Up Success in Sales Creativity Within Entrepreneurship Overcoming Your Uncertainty The Current State of Podcasting Leveraging Podcasts for Your Business Leading From a Place of Passion
Connect with Mike: IG: https://www.instagram.com/mikedicioccio (https://www.instagram.com/mikedicioccio) LI: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedicioccio (https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikedicioccio) Mike’D Up! Podcast: https://linktr.ee/mikedicioccio (https://linktr.ee/mikedicioccio) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's episode of Unpolished MBA, Monique spoke with fellow entrepreneur and passionate farm-to-table innovator Duane Slyder. Duane is the founder and CTO of Seasonal Roots, an innovative and eco-conscious online farmers market that serves the metro Washington DC area and surrounding suburbs. Duane and his team at Seasonal Roots are providing ways to make healthy eating easy with their simple-to-use online farmers market and convenient year-round local, home delivery. Members customize their weekly orders in their online menu, shopping a wide range of the freshest local produce, meats, eggs, dairy, and artisan goods. In this conversation, Monique and Duane discuss the challenges of establishing the business, how the gig economy has empowered many in his part-time workforce, and developing the technology, software, and mobile logistics required for such a time-dependent and multi-faceted service. Duane also addresses the need for greater awareness when it comes to local agriculture and produce and how services like Seasonal Roots can both better serve their community's health and happiness while properly compensating local farmers and artisans. Topics Include: The True Value of an MBA Leveraging The Gig Economy Disrupting Grocery Delivery Services Where Technology Meets Innovation The Importance of Supporting Local Agriculture Making Organic Foods More Accessible
Follow Duane and Seasonal Roots: LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/duaneslyder/?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F (www.linkedin.com/in/duaneslyder/?original_referer=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.google.com%2F) Website: https://www.seasonalroots.com/ (https://www.seasonalroots.com/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's episode of Unpolished MBA, Monique is thrilled to share with listeners the story behind her new venture, Focused Innovation Group. Monique shares some of the anxiety that she has been feeling about being the public face of the group and how the lead-up to launch has emboldened her to find the courage to be confident in leveling up her game and insisting that she “can't stop, won't stop.” Monique goes on to share the exciting news about her new role and how Focused Innovation Group is looking to acquire and rejuvenate small manufacturing and industrial businesses in and around America's rust belt by transforming their technological, marketing and digital platforms to align with today's standards. Known as FIG for short, Focused Innovation Group will be leveraging Monique’s experience as well as the networks of TPM Focus, TPM Marketing, and beyond to bring greater prosperity, equality, and diversity to one of the hardest hit sectors of the American economy. This venture is only getting started and Monique is excited to share with listeners the experience of growing FIG from the ground up while offering some of the lessons, insights, and inevitable roadblocks that she and her team will experience along the way! Topics Include: The Importance of Tenacity in Leadership Announcing the Focused Innovation Group Transforming Communities Through Better Jobs The Importance of New Technologies in Manufacturing The Reality of Small Manufacturers in America The First Steps of a New Business Venture
Coming Soon: FocusedInnovationGroup.com Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
On this week's episode of Unpolished MBA Monique welcomes Marketing Expert Diana Mitchell. Diana is a former VP of Marketing with over a decade of both corporate and freelance experience in the field of marketing, public relations, and creative copy. Diana has consulted and engaged in content work for companies such as Ortega, Ford, and General Motors. Currently Diana helms her own consulting company Diana Mitchell Consulting where she helps freelance entrepreneurs, small business owners, and marketing leaders/professionals get clear on strategy and content implementation with courses, workbooks, templates, and eBooks that help them supercharge their marketing efforts. Diana also co-hosts The Freelance Entrepreneur Podcast and offers a variety of online courses in marketing strategy and content creation. In this conversation Monique and Diana discuss the various trends in both conventional and Social Media Marketing that are being implemented in this current market. Diana guides listeners through the importance of focusing on quality copy and committed content while reminding entrepreneurs of the importance of activating engagement with the communities and networks that surround them both virtually and geographically. Topics Include: Marketing In The Modern Age The Importance Of Quality Copy Activating Community Engagement Examining Social Media Strategies Exploring Creative Content Methods
Follow Diana: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianamitchell716/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/dianamitchell716/) Website: https://dianamitchell.me/ (https://dianamitchell.me/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
After a short spring hiatus, Unpolished MBA returns this week by welcoming author, speaker, and stylist Morgan Wider to the podcast. Morgan is a renowned corporate stylist who after studying economics at Georgetown University went on to spend over a decade in the business world working within the corporate offices of some of the best known brands in the world. After excelling with companies such as, the Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, and Carters, Inc. Morgan set out on a journey of both entrepreneurial and spiritual discovery when she struck out on her own only to discover how much she needed to learn both about business and herself. After a period that Morgan describes as her wilderness of entrepreneurship, she found her stride by giving people permission to be their authentically appropriate selves. In doing so, Morgan empowers both men and women to express themselves with both the confidence and style that fits a true professional. In addition to personal styling and speaking, Morgan is also the author of the book The Worthy Wardrobe: Your Guide to Style, Shopping & Soul, a spiritual and style guide manual perfect for any professional looking to express their personality and spirit through the medium of fashion! Topics Include: The Journey Of Entrepreneurship The Joy Of Your Authentic Self The True Power Of Perception Gender Dynamics In Corporate America How Style Can Reflect Confidence
Follow Morgan: Style Website: https://widerstyle.com/ (https://widerstyle.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganwider (https://www.linkedin.com/in/morganwider) Personal Website: https://morganwider.com/ (https://morganwider.com/)
Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares an exciting announcement about her future and the future of the Unpolished MBA podcast. After years of working in industries ranging from semiconductors to power plants, aviation to real estate and software, Monique is taking another bold step and buying a new company. Despite the fact that many doubters have questioned this decision, Monique shares how regardless of all of her success and experience over the years, she is actually ready to step up her game in 2022. The experiences and foundations that Monique has laid over the years have equipped her to be even more impactful and innovative in this new position and she is looking forward to bringing listeners along on this journey. More details about Monique's new venture will be revealed shortly however for the remainder of March both Thursday Thoughts and Unpolished MBA will be on a short break as Monique ramps up to take on this awesome new challenge. She can’t wait to see what it teaches her so she can continue to pass that knowledge on to you, starting in April. Topics Include: Discovering Balance In The Workplace How Prioritizing Family Makes You More Strategic How A Diversity Of Experiences Prepares Leaders Building On The Foundations Of Innovation Amping Up Your Game In 2022
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode Monique welcomes sales supercharger Marcus Chan to The Unpolished MBA. Marcus is a gifted and insightful sales leader who brings an array of knowledge and invaluable tips to this week's show. Monique and Marcus track the progress of Marcus’s career from top flight sales manger to founder of Venli Consulting Group and developer of the Six Figure Sales Academy. Marcus shares war stories from the difficult and degrading days of his early sales experience reminding us of the importance of resilience and research when tackling challenges in high pressure sales environments. Monique and Marcus also bond over the difficulties of developing their own business and reminisce about the early days of e-book authorship and developing internet business courses. In this interview, Marcus combines his unparalleled knowledge, infectious energy, storytelling approach, and life in sales into an inspirational episode that reminds us all that a bit of tenacity coupled with an unfailing sense of self-belief can take us far in life while also equipping us with the tools to help others along the way! Topics Include: The Secrets Of Consistent Sales Growth Building Internet Courses From Scratch The Importance Of Asking The Right Questions Perseverance In The Face Of Rejection Or Failure The Generationally Transformative Power Of Success
Follow Marcus: Website: https://www.sixfiguresalesacademy.com/ (https://www.sixfiguresalesacademy.com/) LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcuschanmba (https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcuschanmba) Free Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/realb2bsales (https://www.facebook.com/groups/realb2bsales) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares her opinions on the new three-part Netflix documentary chronicling the meteoric rise of Kanye West from small-time Chicago music producer to global icon. Monique uses Kanye’s musical journey to illustrate the importance of persistence and resilience in the face of constant rejection and ridicule. By examining Kanye’s life we can see that even the most talented visionaries face immense roadblocks, humiliation, and doubt on their path to success. Oftentimes new innovators and founders believe that their sheer talent or breakthrough ideas will automatically open doors to wealth and prestige. Kanye’s story just serves to remind us that immense talent is nothing without persistent work ethic and unstoppable self-belief. Only when we truly believe in our ideas and ideals in the face of heartbreak or rejection will we truly be able to transform industries! Topics Include: Never Taking No For An Answer Manifesting Your Own Destiny How Persistence Produces Performance Resilience In The Face Of Rejection Transforming The Norms Of An Industry
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode Monique welcomes franchising expert and consultant Chris Wilson. Chris breaks down his journey from the corporate world to the exciting and challenging world of franchisee and operator of two pilates studios in Orlando, Florida. In addition to being an experienced franchise operator, Chris is also a consultant and coach for individuals looking to take on a franchise in a host of business categories and services including food and beverage, fitness and exercise, retail, and more. In this wide ranging conversation, Chris breaks down the pros and cons of franchising and offers listeners tips on everything from securing financing for your franchise endeavor to ensuring that the business venture you undertake fits the lifestyle, workload, and realistic financial return you are looking for! Topics Include: Understanding The Basics Of Franchising The Pros And Cons Of Franchising A Business Financing Options For Franchises How Franchising Offers Flexibility The Importance Of Seeking Guidance When Franchising
Follow Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisvwilson (https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisvwilson) Legacy Franchise Ventures Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacyfv?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company (https://www.linkedin.com/company/legacyfv?trk=public_profile_topcard-current-company) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode, Monique is finally able to tell the story of how her husband and son beat out thousands of competitors to make it to the final round of Top Chef Jr. After signing an NDA with the show’s producers that has now expired, Monique can now properly brag about the two special men in her life and the journey they took from a long shot Atlanta audition to the heart of Hollywood. This story is meant to inspire listeners who may feel that they don't have the expertise or training in a given field to make an impact or breakthrough. By reflecting on this amazing experience, Monique shows that a little resilience coupled with a healthy dose of self-belief can take you so far in life and that today should be the day you start taking a chance on yourself! Topics Include: How Expertise Is Not Synonymous With Innovation Learning Innovation Through Experience The Importance of Resilience Believing in Yourself Despite the Odds
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode, Monique is pleased to welcome Renee Purdie to the show. Renee is a multi-talented publisher, graphic designer, marketing guru, and academic with two master's degrees and she also plans to pursue a Ph.D. in Education. Renee looks back on her entrepreneurial journey while sharing stories and experiences gathered during her years as an independent publisher, cooking aficionado, and designer. Renee also shares how having all the fanciest software or latest computer tools does not guarantee a high-quality product, but knowing your target market and focusing on clean, legible consistency can take your product further than splashy design gimmicks. Monique and Renee also share creative ideas and social media strategies for bringing attention to your latest book, product, or endeavor. Topics Include: The Basics of Self Publishing The Importance of Quality Design How the Product Is Marketing Transforming Passions Into Paying Gigs Creative Cooking as Content
Follow Renee: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneepurdie (https://www.linkedin.com/in/reneepurdie) Website: https://msrisingstar.com/ (https://msrisingstar.com/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique unpacks the relatively recent trend of employers offering unlimited PTO to employees and why the seemingly too good to be true offer is linked to some basic accounting practices and business expenses. Using General Electric as a corporate example, listeners will learn about how traditional 2-3 week paid time off periods can become a financial liability for companies throughout a fiscal year. By offering unlimited paid time off, companies can free their books from this liability allowing them to decrease their financial risk and operate from a place of greater liquidity even in lean times. Topics Include: Defining Basic Business Models Unpacking Unlimited Paid Time Off How PTO Effects a Companies Bottom Line The Correlation Between Pensions and PTO
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode, Monique speaks with Alastair McDermott about his journey from an “unemployable” software engineer to SEO specialist and founder of WebsiteDoctor. Alastair shares the power of drilling down on specialization and authoritative expertise in a given field and how that specialization can give innovators a focus and niche audience that general services do not offer. Monique and Alastair also explore the journey of choosing your focus if you elect to specialize in a given field. They discuss the benefits of this process and how pattern matching clients and the ability to charge a premium for your services can have lasting benefits for innovators and thought leaders who elect to specialize. Alastair also addresses the importance of writing and speaking in the journey to becoming a recognized authority in your field. Topics Include: Vocational Specialization vs Generalists How Specialization Establishes Authority The Pros and Cons of Specialization Marketing Strategies for Specialization Establishing Visibility in Your Field
Follow Alastair: LinkedIn: https://ie.linkedin.com/in/alastairmcdermott (https://ie.linkedin.com/in/alastairmcdermott) Website: https://therecognizedauthority.com/ (https://therecognizedauthority.com/) Podcast: https://therecognizedauthority.com/podcast/ (The Recognized Authority Podcast) Rob Fitzpatrick Interview: https://therecognizedauthority.com/write-useful-books/ (How to Write Useful Books - interview with Rob Fitzpatrick) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts Monique gets real with listeners by delivering the news that so many innovators and entrepreneurs don't want to hear…“Don’t build it, they won't come.” The pre-occupation of countless founders is the insistence on rushing their product or service to market before they truly understand the product, potential market, or customer. This is why it's vital that the foundation of customer discovery be laid before beginning to build any aspect of your new business. So many zealous founders sink thousands of dollars into building before these essential foundations are reinforced first causing so much unnecessary heartache and setbacks. So much of this heartache can be avoided by taking your first steps towards truly understanding customer discovery before you build! Topics Include: Defining the Term Customer Discovery Other Common Terms for Customer Discovery Discovering Qualitative and Quantitative Data Taking Advantage of Networks for Help The Difference Between User and Market Research
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode, Monique speaks with Kristin Slink the founder and CEO of Tech AF, a group of professional trainers and coaches empowering women and enabling them to bring their innovations and ideas to market quickly regardless of their level of computer engineering, coding, or high-level technical skills. In this conversation, Kristin shares how her journey from psychology student to a burgeoning FinTech innovator was achieved without prodigious technical understanding or coding skills. Kristin shows how innovative, business-savvy thinking paired with the ability to show your product's market fit, and the skills to quickly generate revenue for your venture, can be more valuable than a team of experienced engineers and coders. Topics Include: Finding Your Entrepreneurial Spirit The Value of Non-technical Perspectives Developing Workflow for Non-technical Entrepreneurs The Power of Ideas Over Innovations
Follow Kristin: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinslink (https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinslink) Website: https://propertyguys.com/ (https://propertyguys.com/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique reflects on her Linkedin post celebrating the recent accomplishments of her daughter. After posting the update, Monique was not only moved by the words of encouragement and praise that people left on the post but was reminded about how running a business or startup is in many ways like being a parent. This reminder encouraged Monique to remind listeners that despite how hard they work on their startup or innovation, so much of your business’s life cycle is out of your direct control. This reality makes it vital that business leaders remain flexible and agile while remaining open to trying new things and accepting new experiences. Topics Include: Parenting and Leadership Lessons How Parenting Can Teach Us About Flexibility The Importance of Trying New Things Remembering that Your Business is Always Growing Up
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/) Monique’s LinkedIn Post: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/moniquemills_i-hardly-ever-mention-my-kids-on-linkedin-activity-6892197612641226752-mfW5 (https://www.linkedin.com/posts/moniquemills_i-hardly-ever-mention-my-kids-on-linkedin-activity-6892197612641226752-mfW5) Previous Thursday Thought: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/cb291d9b-18c2-4658-a422-79b4389d001d (https://player.captivate.fm/episode/cb291d9b-18c2-4658-a422-79b4389d001d)
Today's episode is a little different than our usual format…this week Monique is on the other side of the interview! She shares her interview on Breaking Barriers, a podcast produced by tech startup Hire Ground. This is a truly unique opportunity to hear Monique open up about own story, which is rarely covered on Unpolished MBA! Topics discussed in this episode: How Monique Helps B2B Companies Achieve Their Revenue Goals The Importance Of Aligning Your Marketing Efforts With Your Revenue Goals Defining Your Marketing Playbook How To Properly Segment Your Target Market Encouraging Your Technology, Engineering, Business, And Leadership Teams To Communicate And Collaborate How Collaborating And Co-Locating With Other Organizations Can Help Entrepreneurs Increase Their Revenue Common Issues Women Face In The Workplace Around Gender Equality And How Organizations Can Help Move The Conversation How The Face Of Technology Roles Has Shifted Over The Years And Monique’s Advice To Women In S.T.E.M. The Lessons Monique Has Learned Throughout Her Career And How They Impacted Her As An Entrepreneur
Hire Ground Podcast: https://hireground.io/hire-ground-podcast/ (https://hireground.io/hire-ground-podcast/) Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/) Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique reflects on her thoughts after listening to a podcast from fellow innovator and Focus 3 CEO Tim Kight. In his podcast, Tim zeroed in on the fact that in this day and age many people are confusing Entertainment with Education! In a world of 24/7 content whether on Netflix, streaming, social media, or just online, modern men and women can often spend hours consuming and commenting on this content all in the name of improving their education or awareness. Today, Monique is here to remind us that, yes, having access to high quality content can be an enriching part of our day, it is definitely not a substitute for actually educating yourself in a given discipline or field. Actually educating yourself often requires intense focus and can even be a bit of a slog at times. However, it's vital that entrepreneurs and thought leaders remember that things that are worth doing are often hard, but the payoff can be incredibly rewarding. Topics Include: Misconstruing Entertainment With Education Practicing Time Management Awareness Developing Intentionality When Continuing Your Education Remembering That Things Worth Doing Are Hard
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this episode, Monique is joined by Walter Melanson, the Co-founder of PropertyGuys.com, a Canadian-based real estate and technology innovator that's transforming the market. Walter breaks down the history of the company that was formed over 20 years ago and how that wealth of experience has led him and his fellow founders towards building a company that truly understands the needs of an ever-evolving housing market, both in Canada and now in the US. Monique and Walter also discuss how remaining partners with his co-founders for over 20 years has taught him the value of diversified skills within a team. Walter also informs listeners about the compounding power of franchising and how the real estate markets in the United States differ from and also share common traits with the housing market in Canada.
Topics Include:
The Intersection of Tech and Real Estate Understanding Customers Needs When Innovating The Value of Diversified Skill Sets The Power and Effectiveness of Franchising
Follow Walter:
LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/walter-melanson-b24b3?trk=people-guest_people_search-card (https://ca.linkedin.com/in/walter-melanson-b24b3?trk=people-guest_people_search-card)
Website: https://propertyguys.com/ (https://propertyguys.com/)
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/)
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
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In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique reflects upon hearing the news of a friend who has decided to shut down their consulting business in the wake of ungrateful clientele and internet trolls. Perhaps counterintuitively then Monique explains why this move will likely be great for her friend!
So many times founders and entrepreneurs find themselves in a rut with the way they are running their business. For a combination of reasons including fear, pride, or even lack of motivation they continue to operate a business that is neither fulfilling nor impactful.
Monique encourages entrepreneurs who have found themselves burnt-out and unable to summon the courage to start again with a clean sheet. She reminds listeners that the lessons you have learned from starting your business won't go away if you elect to restructure or restrategize, and often a new beginning is just what your business needs to thrive!
Topics Include:
Dealing With Ungrateful Trolls
The Danger and Causes of Burnout
Impacting the World on Your Terms
Reinventing Your Business to Work for You
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, I was so excited to speak with Jared Yellin, the founder of 10X Incubator who has set the audacious and revolutionary goal of starting 10,000 tech start-ups in 10 Years. After founding and building the hugely successful marketing platform Synduit, Jared decided to refocus his energies on helping small tech startups achieve launch by creating a unique network of profit-sharing partners who are committed to investing their resources into companies and individuals they truly believe in.
Today 10X Incubator is helping hundreds of tech companies ranging from small African start-ups, to major tech players to launch, capitalize, grow, and eventually sell. The 10X model is based upon shared ownership amongst partners and strives to build companies that take no venture capital infusions leaving them nimble and connected within a shared network of like-minded individuals, team members, and entrepreneurs.
Topics Include:
Believing and Executing Bold Ideas
Achieving Growth Without Investors
Tech Innovation Outside Silicon Valley
The Value of Audacious Thinking
How Remote Working Forms Global Networks
Follow Jared:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredyellin (https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaredyellin)
10X Incubator Website: https://10xincubator.com/ (https://10xincubator.com/)
Synduit Website: https://www.synduit.com/ (https://www.synduit.com/)
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/)
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
Does your innovation, software, code, or brave idea actually put money in your bank account? If you're like most entrepreneurs, start-ups, or small business owners…the answer is no.
In this week's Thursdays Thoughts, Monique shares her insights and experience on why the value of your product cannot be overlooked.
More often than not, innovators can be seduced into giving their intellectual property away for free with the promise of hype, promotion, and huge returns in the long term. In reality, this is often a case of false promises that will drain your business of time, money, and resources.
Topics Include:
The Falsity of Free Promotion
Valuing Your Product
Defining Customers Vs. Users
How Free Customers Drain Resources
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this premiere episode of 2022, Monique helps us to reframe resolutions by reimagining how to make goals that focus on the impact that we have on individuals and the larger world.
Monique also explores a simple 5-step technique developed by Tim Ferriss that helps participants to continue focusing on positive and nourishing things that produce the most reliable and powerful peaks throughout the New Year!
Topics Include:
Reframing New Year's Resolutions
Evaluating What Makes Us Truly Happy
Practicing Past-Year Reviews
Filling Your Calendar With Nourishment, Not Stress
The 5 Steps of the Post Year Review
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this week’s Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares how incorporating boundaries in both your personal and professional life can be a transformative step towards reducing stress and becoming the person you are striving to be. With the Holidays in full swing, it’s more important than ever to take a step back and take time for yourself. In today’s reflection, we learn just how healthy self-care and boundary setting can be.
Topics Include:
The Practice of Setting Boundaries
Saying No So You Can Say Yes
Powering Through the Discomfort of Boundaries
Identifying Toxic People in Your Life
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Oprah’s Talk:
https://youtu.be/JE9VuFVYJ48 (https://youtu.be/JE9VuFVYJ48)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, Monique walks listeners through the incredibly important process of defining the relationships that you have with potential customers. Often founders or salespeople can deceive themselves into believing that the number of potential leads or prospects is far greater than they are in reality. Today Monique will help us to define the differences in these various levels of customer relations by clearly defining the difference between suspects, prospects, leads, and actual customers. By using an analogy based on the dating world, Monique helps to more clearly illuminate the difference between these lines that salespeople and startup founders often blur, much to their frustration and peril.
Topics Include:
The Importance of Focusing on Customer Empathy How Speaking With Customers Differs From Selling to Customers Differentiating Between Suspects, Prospects, Leads, & Customers How Correctly Labeling Potential Customers Alleviates Frustration
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/)
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
In this week’s Thursday Thoughts, Monique reminds listeners of the importance of staying focused on consistency and frequency when marketing your brand and remembering that no matter how good you think your product is, your brand is only as strong as your last customer interaction.
Topics Include:
The Importance of Consistency in Marketing
Building a Community for Your Product Pre-Release
The Relation Between Recency Bias and Brand Perception
How Lack of Communication Causes Churn
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, it was my pleasure to speak with Gabriel Isserlis, a UK-based founder who is revolutionizing access to creative spaces for visual artists, musicians, filmmakers, and theatrical groups. His startup, Tutti, is essentially the Airbnb for creatives and strives to provide affordable workspaces for artists from all walks of life. Our conversation brought out the strategy consultant in me as Gabriel and I discussed the highs and lows of a startup lifestyle. He shares the struggles and triumphs of founding a company in the midst of a global pandemic and how his time with the London Cohort of the Founder Institute transformed his work ethic and in turn his business. Topics Include:
Entrepreneurship Amongst Creatives Finding Motivation Through Adversity Problem Solving With Small Teams The Reality of The Start-Up Lifestyle
Follow Gabriel: LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/gmisserlis Tutti Website: https://www.tutti.space/ Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/
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In this week’s Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares a little about her experience interviewing Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna on Episode 35 of the Unpolished MBA podcast. After interviewing this incredible young woman, Monique was reminded that despite Augusta’s unique gifts each of us has our own unique fingerprints to place on this world.
We can often be bogged down by negative signals coming from social media, stereotypes, or society at large. However, it’s vital that we remember to take the time to reflect upon what makes us unique and passionate so that we can share that passion with the world, and in turn make the world a better place!
Topics Include:
Remembering Your Unique Purpose
Finding Inspiration in Other’s Stories
Taking Time to Be in Tune With Your Uniqueness
The Importance of Taking Time to Dream
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Tune Into Episode 35 on Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-035-augusta-uwamanzu-nna-destined-for-greatness/id1525373601?i=1000544776791 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/episode-035-augusta-uwamanzu-nna-destined-for-greatness/id1525373601?i=1000544776791)
Tune Into Episode 35 on Spotify:
https://open.spotify.com/episode/4jdqMrNuC7v3JmPvr4qObS?si=5jT7W858RsGdhvKh4dLcMg (https://open.spotify.com/episode/4jdqMrNuC7v3JmPvr4qObS?si=5jT7W858RsGdhvKh4dLcMg)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, It’s my honor to be joined by one of the most incredible young women I’ve ever had the pleasure of speaking with. Augusta Uwamanzu-Nna is the Chief of Staff of the Black Women in Science and Engineering. At the age of 13, Augusta began experimenting with cement samples in the basement of her Elmont, New York home only to discover that she had a prodigious gift for science and engineering.
Augusta’s journey has taken her from that basement to the halls of Harvard University where she graduated cum laude with a degree in bioengineering AND biomedical engineering. With plans to attend medical school for a dual Ph.D./MD, Augusta is passionate about advocating for educational and networking opportunities for black women and minorities in STEM fields. When not meeting with Michelle or Barack Obama to discuss her research, she is working with BWISE to find ways to level the playing fields in both education, medicine, and innovation.
Topics Include:
STEM Education for Minorities
Black Women in Science and Engineering
The Future of Biomedical Entrepreneurship
Minority Leadership and Support Systems
Follow Augusta
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/augusta-uwamanzu-nna (https://www.linkedin.com/in/augusta-uwamanzu-nna)
BWISE Website: http://www.bwiseusa.org/ (http://www.bwiseusa.org/)
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/)
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
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In this week’s Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares her opinions on why being “ghosted” by a client can be a growing experience for innovators or entrepreneurs whose products have not found their market fit.
Topics Include:
What Is Ghosting in a Business Context
What Ghosting is Actually Communicating
Remembering That Not All Clients are Early Adopters
Only Innovation Causes Lost Clients to Return
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, we're joined by Talisha Shine. Talisha is an IT Professional and Certified Blockchain Consultant with over 20 years of experience in the information technology and software fields.
In this episode, we cover the basics of blockchain technology and how blockchain is the foundation of everything from cryptocurrency to NFTs.
Topics Include:
Understanding the Basics of Blockchain Technology
Misconceptions Regarding Crypto Currencies
The Relationship Between NFTs and Blockchain
Real-World Applications of Blockchain
Defining and Contextualizing the Term Web 3.0
Understanding Decentralized Finance
Follow Talisha:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshine (https://www.linkedin.com/in/tshine)
Website: https://talishashine.com/ (https://talishashine.com/)
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/)
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this week’s Thursday Thoughts, Monique shares her unique insights on why not all entrepreneurial-minded people are best suited to becoming founders. In this day and age, millions of driven professionals have been told time and time again that the way to get ahead in today’s economy is to start their own business.
Though this may be true for many, in this episode Monique reflects on the advantages of being a startup employee and how having a front-row seat to the formation of a business without all the stress and responsibility of leading may be the best fit for many self-starters.
Topics Include:
The Realities of Being a Founder or CEO
The Advantages of Joining a Startup as an Employee
The Joys of Being on a Startup Sales-Team
Questioning Your True Motivations for Starting a Business
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, I’m delighted to be joined by Katrina Keyes. Katrina is a gifted salesperson, problem-solver, and inspiring communicator specializing in the field of SaaS sales and sales psychology.
We explore the underlying motivations that led to her career in sales and why discovering your true self outside your career is essential to success in today’s ever-evolving business landscape. Topics Include: The Correlations Between Sales and Problem Solving Staying Positive While Dealing With Rejection The Shifting Landscape of Millennial’s Motivations How Self-Discovery Shapes Success in Sales The Value of Life Experience Outside Corporate America
Follow Katrina:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katrinakeyes
Follow Monique:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills/
Website: https://unpolishedmba.com/
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In this episode of Thursday Thoughts, Monique breaks down the fallacy of developing products or services that are cheap, fast, and good while dissecting the unique attributes of differentiation vs cost leadership and how these two very different strategies have been implemented by brands such as Tesla, Walmart, and WeWork.
Topics Include:
The Cheap, Fast, and Good Fallacy
Defining Differentiation vs Cost Leadership Strategies
Real World Implementation of Each Strategy
How Brand Perception Factors Into Business Strategy
Website:
https://unpolishedmba.com/ (https://unpolishedmba.com/)
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
In this episode, it’s my pleasure to be joined by Dr. Tamara Baynham. Dr. Baynham is a brilliant polymath with a Ph.D. in biomedical engineering alongside extensive experience as a medical device R&D consultant, patent agent, and clinical research strategist. Dr. Baynham's career has taken her from the halls of academia to the research labs of some of the most innovative and exciting startups and incubators operating today. In this conversation, we explore how having a diversity of interests keeps her sharp while discovering some of the secrets to a corporate vs entrepreneurial lifestyle. Topics Include:
The World of Patents and Medical Research How Patent Clerks Intersect With Med-Tech Expanding Opportunities Within Medical Tech Incubators Finding the Balance Between a Corporate and Entrepreneurial Lifestyle Keeping Sharp by Accepting New Challenges and Life Experiences
Follow Tamara: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamarabaynham Follow Monique: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moniquemills Website: https://unpolishedmba.com
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message
On Thursdays, in under 10 minutes, we "Connect The Dots" from real-life situations to help you as an entrepreneur, leader, innovator, or just a person who is venturing out to try something new. These stories will help you make sense of situations you may find yourself in and provide encouragement to keep you moving forward in your journey.
"You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backward." ~Steve Jobs (I think)
Visithttps://www.unpolishedmba.com/ ( unpolishedmba.com) to listen to all of the episodes and apply to become a guest.
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This episode is a conversation with https://www.linkedin.com/in/cloeguidry/ (Cloe Guidry), a tech startup founder in Atlanta. The idea for her technology came from specific challenges she witnessed in Supplier Diversity during her years in Corporate and her desire to solve them in an unconventional way.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep031
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Dr. Steven Goudy, the inventor behind the brand Dr. Noze Best, shares his professional journey as a pediatric surgeon, MBA, and entrepreneur as well as his thoughts on self-awareness.
No time to listen? To read the transcript for this episode just go to —>
http://unpolishedmba.com/ep030 (http://unpolishedmba.com/ep030)
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/jivanco/ (Jonathan Ivanco), an attorney turned entrepreneur, has developed a unique way of looking at business. He found his way into the tech world and isn’t looking back. In this episode, he talks about his journey from starting out in computer science and with a lot of twists and turns, going all the way through finishing law school and realizing that he didn’t want to practice law. How did it turn out? What is he doing now? Listen in and find out.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --> www.unpolishedmba.com/ep029
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/charuthomas/ (Charu Thomas), a tech entrepreneur who founded her company while still completing her undergraduate degree at Georgia Tech, talks about how she almost didn't continue on with the business after graduation. Why did she change her mind? Listen in to find out.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --> www.unpolishedmba.com/ep028
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https://twitter.com/MacConwell (Mac Conwell), a tech entrepreneur turned venture capitalist, talks about his career journey from leaving college to becoming a tech startup founder and now a VC.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep027
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Angela Ellington, CEO of https://moisturasilk.com/ (Moistura Silk), a chemist turned entrepreneur speaks about going from the Corporate conveniences of being an executive to being a startup CEO. As many of us know, being an Executive at a large corporation has its perks, but when you have a calling, nothing can hold you back from fulfilling it. Listen in as Angela shares more about this and how your Corporate network doesn’t prepare you for entrepreneurship.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep026
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https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelecheyward/ (Michele Heyward), CEO of Positive Hire, is an engineer turned entrepreneur taking on the challenge to help companies recruit & retain BIPOC women engineers, scientists and technical professionals for management roles.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep025
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In this episode, https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattwallaert/ (Matt Wallaert), an expert on changing human behavior, talks about being "needfully vulgar" at times while still being a respected scientist, author, and entrepreneur.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep024
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This episode is a conversation with Mike Tatum, a military soldier turned marketing guru. He lends his talents to Corporate America, but also runs his own marketing firm and somehow he manages it all.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( )www.unpolishedmba.com/ep023
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Chris Walker, CEO of Refine Labs, was always meant to be an entrepreneur. He took his "bad ideas" and created a multi-million dollar business for himself.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep00 ( ) https://unpolishedmba.com/ep022">https://unpolishedmba.com/ep022
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This episode is a conversation with Steve Blank, a world-renowned Entrepreneur and Entrepreneurship Professor at Stanford University, Columbia University, and UC Berkeley.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep021 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep021)
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This is the final episode of Season 1 and for the year 2020. Stay tuned for what's ahead on the Unpolished MBA in 2021. If you'd like to be a guest or listen to prior episodes go to https://www.unpolishedmba.com (www.unpolishedmba.com.)
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She flipped it---Sheffie Robinson, the CEO of https://shamrck.com/ (Shamrck), is a talented developer turned MBA. Listen in to understand the back story around why she's currently completing her MBA and how she's navigated the tech world to become a tech startup founder.
To read the transcript for this episode just go to —> unpolishedmba.com/ep020
Visit http://unpolishedmba.com/ (unpolishedmba.com) to receive more information on how to become a guest.
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This episode is a conversation with http://blancacatalinagarcia.com/ (Blanca Catalina Garcia), an innovator and educator building a vibrant, multicultural, and empowered entrepreneurial and tech startup ecosystems. She creates and cultivates spaces where people with diverse stories can feel supported to grow, thrive, and go to the next level. We talk about the challenges many Black and Brown women face in the tech startup world and how showing up as your full self is enough. If you need a reminder of your power, you'll want to listen in on this conversation.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep019 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep019)
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This episode is a conversation with Matthew Sciannella, a writer turned marketing strategist for B2B industrial companies after obtaining his Master's degree. He finally made the jump after spending many unhappy years in a job that he performed well in, but hated. If you can identify with that, you'll certainly want to listen to this episode.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep018 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep018)
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Listen to this conversation with Andy Raskin, an entrepreneur and previous tech startup founder that many people underrated throughout his journey. Upon learning how to tell stories in a compelling way, similar to a movie screenwriter, the trajectory of his career changed. Surprisingly, his degrees from Yale and Wharton played just a small part in his journey, earning him the status of "self-employed" at a school reunion.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep017 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep017)
Visithttps://www.unpolishedmba.com/ ( unpolishedmba.com) to receive more information on how to become a guest and join our new private slack channel. We’re building a community and you’re invited to become a part of it.
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Listen to this conversation with Dan Sanchez, a marketer at Sweet Fish Media which produces podcasts for brands. We talked about how he aggressively completed his MBA in 6 months and realized how much it filled in the gaps of information that he didn’t know were missing. As they say, you don’t know what you don’t know, so listen in as Dan describes his startup experience and the journey to becoming the marketing maven he is today.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep016 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep016)
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This is a conversation with Dan Chan, an early employee of PayPal before its IPO, and now a magician to the stars of Silicon Valley. He has an untraditional career, but a business background that has enabled him to create a profitable business doing what he loves.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep015 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep015)
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Listen to this conversation with Julian Roberts, an Executive Leadership coach who threw in the towel for Corporate work to focus on unlocking another’s potential while unlocking his own at the same time.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep014 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep014)
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Listen to this conversation with Bethany D. Valente, a doctor of business administration with experience that includes working with high tech scientific organizations. Though she doesn't have a science background, growing up with a mom who was a nurse and dad who was an entrepreneur the foundation was laid long ago for what she would become today. This episode is dedicated to the late Justice "Notorious" RBG.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep013 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep013)
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Listen to this conversation with Erika Jefferson, a Chemical Engineer turned entrepreneur. Somehow she fell into entrepreneurship several years after receiving her MBA and has since created a thriving business that serves women in science and engineering. We point of some of the stereotypical engineer personality traits and discuss how engineers and scientists can still win in business.
Visithttps://www.unpolishedmba.com/ ( unpolishedmba.com) to listen to all of the episodes and apply to become a guest.
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This episode is a conversation with Dee Acosta, better known as Batman, but with an MBA. This interview is riddled with his candid thoughts on the impact (or lack thereof) of the MBA on his career, but most importantly how it inspires his family.
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This episode is a conversation with Steve Worthy. While he is currently an entrepreneur, the majority of his career was in Corporate and he talks about how getting his MBA caused him to question everything. It was a gamechanger for him in many ways, especially as an Executive coach now.
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This episode is a conversation with Emma Gasking who started her career as a Midwife in the UK and upon getting her MBA, her career took a 180---or as it may seem at first glance. Things didn’t quite work out as she'd initially planned, but it did work out for the best. She's now changing lives, one person at a time.
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This episode is a conversation with Karen Hunter, an innovation expert with experience in Corporate as well as consulting for global brands like Coca-cola, Kraft, Snapple, Sara Lee, and Kimberly-Clark. She shares some great wisdom about innovation that applies to both corporations and startups. You’ll never believe what sparked her desire to pursue her MBA.
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I’m sharing a conversation I had with Bryan Smith, the co-founder of a startup called Leon Health Science. He was a rebel growing up but always had the natural instincts to find problems to solve to earn money. With his background in Professional Sports Performance coaching and understanding the data science behind sports performance, he's found a new problem to solve---helping people be better employees and happier individuals overall using data science. Bryan's fascinating journey from being a young rebel to being a US serviceman in the Army to now being a startup co-founder is a compelling example of how discipline can be life-changing.
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Here's a conversation with Faheem Moosa, a serial entrepreneur with an MBA who had a short stint in Corporate life although he was born into entrepreneurship. His family has had a business for generations---120+ years to be exact. Despite that background, Faheem shares how he still had to invest in learning new things because he, like many entrepreneurs, was missing the essential marketing and sales skills.
Listen in and see what more he had to say.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( ) https://unpolishedmba.com/ep006 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep006)
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Here's a conversation with Walter Ley, founder of Branch, a tech startup in Atlanta, Georgia. He talked about how not having an MBA can create self-doubt when you’re a new entrepreneur. He also talked about: Having the courage to create something from scratch to solve a problem and understand that you’re going to have some “face down in the dirt” lessons in life overall, not just entrepreneurship.
Listen in and see what more he had to say.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep005 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep005)
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Here's a conversation with Tondaleya Carter, a Realtor from Keller Williams Commercial. She talked about how having an MBA relates to her success in commercial real estate.
She also talked about:
How she innovated herself out of a job.
How while working in “old school” Corporate they didn’t innovate and the people who worked there had been there for their entire career. Listen to how she got her job because the person before her died after being there 25 years! These stories….these companies…
So was the MBA degree helpful to Tondaleya’s entrepreneurial journey?
Listen in and see what she says.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( ) http://unpolishedmba.com/ep004">https://unpolishedmba.com/ep004
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Intrapreneurs and Entrepreneurs ---One is not better than the other, just different.
But some will say you're not a "real" entrepreneur if you're only doing entrepreneurial stuff inside of a corporation and collecting a steady paycheck. There's something about letting go of the certainty of an income that earns respect in the startup streets.
However, in Corporate, you get the benefit of being creative and solving problems without taking on the risk---some say intrapreneurship is the best of both worlds.
In this episode, we talk about the different types of innovations and how creating innovations inside your organization can be "risky" too.....
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO ---> http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep003)
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Listen to this conversation between Monique Mills and Andy Rosic, a serial startup founder, advisor, and investor in multiple tech companies. We're in a global pandemic and Andy gives his perspective to those entrepreneurs who want to know: "Do I stop selling? How do I move forward to survive?"
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep002 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep002)
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Everything you do should have a purpose. Symbols are powerful representations of purpose and this episode shares the meaning behind the Unpolished MBA stone.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/bonusep001 (https://unpolishedmba.com/bonusep001)
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Learn how to join our community and the meaning behind the unpolished stone used to represent this conversation.
TO READ THE TRANSCRIPT FOR THIS EPISODE GO TO --->http://unpolishedmba.com/ep003 ( )https://unpolishedmba.com/ep001 (https://unpolishedmba.com/ep001)
Visit http://unpolishedmba.com/ (unpolishedmba.com) to receive more information on how to become a guest and join our new private slack channel. We’re building a community and you’re invited to become a part of it.
Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/unpolishedmba/message