The Small Business Show: Recent Episodes
Shannon Jean & Dave Hamilton
Two long-time small-business owners, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, come to you each week to talk through the trials, success, pitfalls and tips it takes to successfully run a small business in today’s world. Hear real-world folks talk about real-world problems, letting you know not only what it takes to get it done but that you’re not alone in doing it!
In this Casual FridAI episode of Business Brain, we get real about the AI tools that let us down and the ones that blow us away. You’ll hear how Shannon tried a buzzy new text-to-video service, hit a wall of tokens and friction, and gave it a thumbs down—only to get a personal email from a founder mid-recording asking to hop on a call. It’s the perfect reminder that every business is in the customer service business, and that a broken feedback loop is a black hole you can’t afford. We dig into why you should stay wary of every shiny new tool that pops up, and why great onboarding beats slick features every time.
Then Dave pulls back the curtain on using AI as a procrastination eliminator, feeding messy email trails into a custom MCP connector that pulls live data and spits out a polished PDF, a spreadsheet, and a draft reply in minutes. You’ll pick up a clever pro move for the AI age—offering clients a Markdown file when they’re running your proposal through their own LLM—plus the big takeaway that anchors it all: if your AI isn’t surprising and delighting you every single week, you’re not pushing it hard enough. That’s the Charmed Life, where the right division of duties finally gives entrepreneurs like us the leverage we’ve wanted our whole lives.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #777 for Casual FridAI, August 7th, 2026
- August 7th: International Beer Day
- 00:03:18 Be weary of lousy AI tools.
- Simplifying AI Newsletter
- Shannon didn’t like Motion.so…and the founder emailed him!
- 00:10:10 SPONSOR: Hims. With Wegovy® at Hims, lose up to 20% of your body weight when combined with diet and exercise. Visit https://hims.com/businessbrain to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.
- 00:12:07 Claude Cowork: feed it your email, let it build
- 00:18:24 Offering a Markdown file to customers
- 00:23:20 Business Brain 777 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: If you’re not yet surprised and delighted by your LLM every week, push harder
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post FridAI – Tool Testing and a Claude Cowork Update – Business Brain 777 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into what happens when you finally step away. Shannon walks you through his experiment of doing “nothing” with his thriving mastermind community—handing off the day-to-day and discovering that the business didn’t just survive, it kept getting bigger and better. You’ll learn why identifying the work you actually love is the real key to scaling, how to escape both the consultant trap and the box you build for yourself, and why stepping away for a week, two weeks, or even a full month is the ultimate stress test for whether your business can run without you.
Then we reframe the whole lifestyle business debate. Critics love to say a lifestyle business is “just a job”—but what if it’s a job with unlimited upside? You’ll hear why flexibility, not just money, is the most valuable thing you can chase, and how putting value at the center of everything (for customers, employees, contractors, and suppliers) builds the kind of freedom that lets you attend concerts on a Tuesday and still grow. It’s the Charmed Life in action: proof that the experiment of stopping might be the smartest move you make all year.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #776 for Wednesday, August 5th, 2026
- August 5th: National Work Like a Dog Day
- 00:01:19 What happens when you step back?
- Avoiding the The Consultant Trap
- Is Shannon Semi-Retired?
- Be careful, though, that things don’t fall apart
- Start a second business!
- 00:12:57 SPONSOR: Hims. With Wegovy® at Hims, lose up to 20% of your body weight when combined with diet and exercise. Visit https://hims.com/businessbrain to get a personalized, affordable plan that gets you.
- 00:14:53 A (good) lifestyle business is a job with unlimited upside.
- Flexibility is the most valuable thing to chase
- Add value for OTHER people first
- 00:19:58 Business Brain 776 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Stop and do nothing!
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post What Happens if You do Nothing? Business Brain 776 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into a question that’ll save you money and focus: before you buy yet another AI tool, ask the tools you already have if they can do the job. We walk through how connecting your existing stack—using AI as the glue—often beats chasing hundreds of shiny single-purpose apps down the rabbit hole. Shannon shares how linking Claude to his Kajabi community surfaced which members had gone quiet so he could re-engage them, and we talk through the real litmus test for every new tool: what’s the most important thing you can do right now to actually move revenue? Because productivity that doesn’t move the bottom line is just busywork in disguise.
Then we get into MCP connectors—the model context protocol that lets your AI talk directly to your internal systems—and why building one is a game changer if you’re forever fielding “can you look this up for me” emails. Dave breaks down the read-only connector he built for BackBeat’s ad system, how it gets him out of the way of his own process, and even how AI spotted a hidden pattern in his health data that no human would’ve caught. Connect your tools, pick the right model for the job, and stop paying for glue you don’t need—that’s how we keep living the Charmed Life. We’ll see you Friday.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #775 for Casual FridAI, July 31, 2026
- July 31st: National Talk In An Elevator Day
- 00:02:58 Don’t look for another tool, connect the tools you have
- SaaS-pocalypse
- 00:10:16 SPONSOR: Shopify: Own your customer relationships. Own your revenue. Start with a free trial at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:11:39 I built an MCP Connector
- 00:17:05 Business Brain 775 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Use AI to connect your business tools together
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post FridAI: You Don’t Need Another Tool – Business Brain 775 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you’ll learn why the smartest marketing move is to get out of your own spotlight and put your customers there instead. Shannon and Dave break down how making your clients the heroes of your story—showing what they built, how they succeeded, how their lives changed—beats any “me, me, me” pitch every time. You’ll hear why the hero section of your website should feature your customers, not your team, and why saying something genuinely nice about your competition costs nothing while buying you trust, clarity on your own differentiator, and an escape from the race-to-the-bottom trap of competing on price. Remember: you’re a monopoly of one, and your only real competitor is yourself.
Then things get delightfully weird when Dave floats a “urinal inspiration” business idea: a Tinder competitor with built-in reviews. You’ll follow the whole workshop live—star ratings, retaliatory-review pitfalls borrowed from Airbnb and eBay, and the discovery that apps like Skip, Pear, and Oyster already exist. It’s part cautionary Black Mirror tale, part real market lesson in knowing exactly what your product is for. Apply the customers-as-heroes blueprint, keep your mindset abundant, and you’ll be well on your way to living the Charmed Life your business was meant to give you.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #774 for Wednesday, July 29, 2026
- July 29th: National Chicken Wing Day
- 00:01:07 Make Your Customers Heroes
- It costs nothing to help lift and highlight your customers or your competitors
- A compliment costs nothing, and often buys you a lot
- Abundance vs. Scarcity mindsets
- 00:9:25 SPONSOR: Shopify: Own your customer relationships. Own your revenue. Start with a free trial at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:10:49 Crazy Business Idea: Tinder, but with reviews.
- Know what your business actually is.
- 00:19:47 Business Brain 774 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Make your customers the focus of your marketing
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Make Your Customers Heroes – Business Brain 774 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into the tools that make us better operators, starting with Markdown, the plain-text format John Gruber built to be human-readable and computer-friendly, and now the format our AI overlords love because it burns fewer tokens and runs faster. We share a free live-preview tool at markdownlivepreview.com and Dave’s go-to Mac app, then get real about software pricing: consumers overwhelmingly want to buy outright while enterprises prefer subscriptions, and why recurring revenue is what keeps the small developers we love in business.
Then we get into the FridAI meat: using agentic browsers like Comet to stress-test our own websites the way a customer would. How many clicks to find your contact form, file a warranty claim, or unsubscribe? We ask AI to surface the friction points, audit our SEO and AI engine optimization, and flag security holes, because an unpublished private API is not a private one. We even threw out one of our own user interfaces for a chat interface and watched engagement jump 10x. Test every customer touchpoint, keep the friction out, and keep living that Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #773 for Casual FridAI, July 24, 2026
- July 24th: Tell an Old Joke Day
- 00:01:32 MarkDownLivePreview.com
- Marked (macOS app)
- 00:08:43 Scribe. Don’t get caught being the only person who knows how something works. For a limited time, book a demo at https://scribe.how/brain and mention BRAIN for your first month of Scribe Capture free.
- 00:10:34 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:11:48 For the apps you use: subscription vs. buy it outright?
- 00:13:19 Using an Agentic Browser to Test Your Website
- Comet Browser from Perplexity
- Things to look for:
- How easy is it for my customers to contact me?
- Go find [x] FAQ and tell me how easy it was.
- Pretend you have [x] question. Tell me how to solve it.
- How effective is my SEO?
- How effective is my AIEO?
- Have it review your site for security holes
- Business Brain 773 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Use AI to Test all the customer touch points of your business
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post FridAI – AI Browsers Test Your Website + Markdown – Business Brain 773 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we welcome a special third brain to the table for World Brain Day as Lisa joins Shannon and Dave with real questions about turning household clutter into a reselling business. We walk through the exact path we’d take: start by selling what you already own, research your market before spending a dime using eBay’s free product research, and register on every platform early so your accounts have time to warm up. From first-edition Stephen King books to collectible dolls, we get into where to sell, how to price with sold-listing data, and why the profit is always made when you buy, not when you sell.
We dig into the reselling gold that never shows up in the how-to guides: buy with math and sell with emotion, work every deal backward from what it sells for, and lean into the one unfair advantage nobody can copy. People buy from people, so a credibility statement and a noble cause in your listing turn “eBay user 559678” into a real human someone wants to support. We cover sourcing from B-Stock, GovDeals, and BidSpotter, using Claude to crunch manifests, and setting a hard bidding ceiling and walking away. Small wins compound, personalization wins the sale, and that’s how we keep living the Charmed Life.We turn clutter into cash: reselling research, pricing with math, and why people buy from people on Business Brain.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #772 for Wednesday, July 22, 2026
- July 22nd: World Brain Day
- 00:01:34 With a new business, learn the system
- Start with small wins!
- 00:04:35 Learn what your market is?
- Use eBay Product Research
- Learn from them.
- Add video if your market uses that!
- BStock.com
- Shannon Jean’s Reseller Mastermind
- 00:10:11 For your listings
- Your credibility statement.
- One or two sentences at the beginning of your listing. A quick blurb that helps you stand out.
- What’s your noble cause? (trying to get out of debt, lifelong learner, paying for a new car)
- People buy from people.
- 00:12:25 Scribe. Don’t get caught being the only person who knows how something works. For a limited time, book a demo at https://scribe.how/brain and mention BRAIN for your first month of Scribe Capture free.
- 00:14:18 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:15:31 What sites to use…beyond eBay?
-
- Poshmark (mainly fashion, plus others)
- Facebook Marketplace
- Vinted
- Depop
- Tools:
- Comet Browser
- Claude
- Create your social accounts
-
- 00:18:17 All the profit is made when you buy.
- You never want to buy ANYthing until you KNOW what you can sell it for
- Buy with math and sell with emotion
- 00:22:15 Where do we buy?
- BStock.com
- GovDeals
- BidSpotter
- 00:26:20 Do Your Research!
- Work the deal backwards
- 00:28:25 Auction or Buy It Now?
- 00:30:18 This Episode’s Big Takeway: People Buy From People. Bring Your Personality.
- 00:31:22 Business Brain 772 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Reselling, Unfair Advantage, People want to Buy from People – Business Brain 772 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we get into when to stop using chat and move to Cowork. Chat is a great place to start — it’s just not where we should live. Dave’s signals: more than five back-and-forths, or constantly pasting in screenshots, log files, and PDFs. That’s the tell. Point Cowork at the folder instead and stop copying and pasting. His trick is to ask the chat directly whether it’s time to move, and to have it write the handoff prompt for the Cowork session, since Cowork doesn’t inherit the full context. Flip the default: assume you’re going to Cowork, then convince yourself why you should stay in chat. We also untangle chats vs. projects vs. Cowork vs. Claude Code — and the one real reason to stay put, which is cloud sync across devices.
Then Dave walks us through a wild experiment: handing $10K of found money to Claude to run as a 90-day trading portfolio. He planned it in chat with Fable, executed in Cowork with Opus, and let it pick platforms with API and MCP access — Kraken for crypto, Alpaca for securities. It insisted on a seven-day paper trading run first, keys live in a 1Password vault instead of the session, and there’s a kill switch on his phone. No options, so the floor is zero. Whatever happens, it’s tuition. Real story: Claude didn’t earn the money — it just got him far enough through the process to actually collect it. Get out of the chat, and keep living that Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #771 for Casual FridAI, July 17, 2026
- 00:00:15 July 17th: National Tattoo Day
- 00:01:26 Defaulting to Claude Cowork instead of Claude Chat
- 00:10:26 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:11:43 SPONSOR: Shopify: Own your customer relationships. Own your revenue. Start with a free trial at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:12:58 Letting Claude invest the money it earned
- 00:20:06 Business Brain 771 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Get out of the chat!
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post FridAI – Cowork vs Chat and $10k to Claude – Business Brain 771 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into the exponential timeline — the long, flat stretch every business grinds through before anything looks like growth. We break it down as chutes and ladders: you climb, you slide back, you climb higher. The problem is most of us quit before the hockey stick ever arrives, because the middle part sucks and the feedback loop goes quiet. But that horizontal grind is where the knowledge, the network, and the team stack up. We also talk about recognizing the ladder when you’re standing at its base — bad stuff barges in uninvited, good stuff knocks politely, so throw the door open when it does.
Then we get into reading negotiating signals. There’s the jackass negotiator who says “your prices are too high,” and the collaborative one who tells you exactly what the number needs to be. When someone tells you who they are, believe them — and match the energy accordingly. We cover the understated jackass-back move that reframes the whole conversation, why you compete on value instead of price, how scarcity and confidence do real work for you, qualifying leads by asking the budget question straight out, and chasing the no to save everyone’s time. Add value instead of cutting price, stick around long enough for the opportunity to find you, and keep living that Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #770 for Wednesday, July 15, 2026
- 00:0:14 July 15th: National Give Something Away Day
- 00:02:13 Exponential Timeline
- Growth is rarely linear
- Chutes and Ladders
- 00:10:14 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:11:33 SPONSOR: Shopify: Stop waiting for permission to build something. Your next revenue stream starts free at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:12:48 Learn what kind of negotiator you’re working with
- Don’t collaborate with the jackass
- Leverage scarcity
- Chase the “no”
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Stick around long enough to take advantage of the eventual opportunities
- 00:22:08 Business Brain 770 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post The Exponential Timeline + Negotiating Signals – Business Brain 770 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton kick off Casual FridAI with a $10,000 surprise. Dave got an unsolicited email about a domain he’d owned for 21 years and never used — exactly the kind of message he’d normally ignore. This time he fed it to Claude, treated AI as a confidential collaborator, and worked through how to value a domain with zero cash flow and how to play the negotiation. He came in high at $15K, settled at $10K through escrow, and netted every dollar. The takeaway for you: stop using AI just to do the work and start using it to think alongside you. That everyday, back-and-forth collaboration mode is where the real money hides.
From there, the guys dig into why the AI industry feels flat-out insane. Palantir’s Alex Karp argues enterprises are paying to feed frontier models their own IP, only to get outcompeted by the very tools they’re training — you can’t rent intelligence from the same place that rents it to your competitors. Where does that leave you? Betting on on-device AI and owning your software instead of renting it. If you’re still paying for a CRM a year from now, you may be throwing money away, because there’s never been a better time to build your own. Put these moves to work and you’ll be living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #769 for Casual FridAI, July 10, 2026
- July 10th: National Piña Colada Day
- 00:01:03 I made ten grand by surprise
- Escrow.com
- 00:10:38 SPONSOR: Shopify: Stop waiting for permission to build something. Your next revenue stream starts free at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:12:03 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:13:37 Plantir CEO Alex Karp says AI Industry is Effing Insane
- You can’t rent intelligence from the same place that rents it to your competitors
- FileMaker and AI
- Business Brain 769 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: There’s never been a better time to own and build your own business software
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post FridAI – Free $10K + AI Insanity. Business Brain 769 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you’ll rethink everything you assumed about failure. Shannon and Dave dig into why America’s culture of embracing failure, from bankruptcy protection to at-will employment, fuels entrepreneurship in a way most other countries can’t match. You’ll hear how low switching costs mean low experimentation costs, why VCs invest in founders instead of ideas, and why a business failure here doesn’t follow you for life the way it does elsewhere. The big idea: failure isn’t a punishment, it’s tuition, and outliving it is what keeps your charmed life on track.
Then the conversation takes a sharp turn into the awkward economics of small talk. You’ll laugh at Dave’s confession that he’d pay extra for a silent haircut, and you’ll dig into the introvert-extrovert divide, the rise of silent salons, and even a pitch-black Vegas restaurant where waiters wear night vision goggles. Whether you’re the type who bonds with your barber over rental properties or the type who just wants to sit in silence, you’ll walk away with a sharper sense of how comfort, connection, and customer experience shape the businesses you build and support.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #768 for Wednesday, July 8, 2026
- July 8th: National Blueberry Day
- 00:02:17 How we perceive failure in the USA
- We are surrounded by opportunities
- Mistakes are tuition
- Bankruptcy and business failures can be outlived
- Failure is baked into venture capital business
- The power of at-will employment
- The pivot is revered
- 00:12:28 SPONSOR: Shopify: Stop waiting for permission to build something. Your next revenue stream starts free at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain.
- 00:13:53 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:15:25 Can I pay extra for the silent haircut?
- 00:19:55 Blackout, the dark restaurant in Las Vegas
- 00:23:05 Business Brain 768 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Business Failures Can Be Outlived
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post What Have You Failed at This Week? Business Brain 768 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we break down Anthropic’s surprise release of Claude Sonnet 5, a leaner, more agentic model built for the daily grind of coding, automation, and multi-step tool use, and why we’re shifting our default from Opus to save tokens without sacrificing quality. We also dig into the new OpenClaw iOS app, which finally gives us voice control and location-sharing baked right into our personal AI agent, and why pairing it with Tailscale unlocks near-magical remote access from anywhere. From outfit suggestions based on real-time location to bigger questions about where local, on-device models are headed, we cover why this shift toward privacy-first AI is picking up serious steam.
Then we shift to a tool a listener put on our radar: Supercut, a screen recording app we think might finally dethrone Loom. We walk through why its AI editor, which automatically cuts between screen and face depending on the moment, keeps viewers hooked, and how features like flexible framing, instant captions, and a new MCP integration make it a serious contender for SOPs, tutorials, and team wrap-ups. We also get real about when async video communication helps and when it backfires, plus why we think local LLMs are the next big shift every business owner needs to watch. It’s this constant hunt for smarter tools and sharper workflows that keeps us living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #767 for Casual FridAI, July 3, 2026
- July 3rd: National Independent Beer Run Day
- 00:01:04 Anthropic Sonnet 5 is out
- OpenClaw for iPhone and Android are released
- 00:09:41 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:11:13 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:12:55 Supercut AI
- 00:22:12 Business Brain 767 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Get ready to hear more — and learn more — about using local LLMs
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Business Blueprints
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post OpenClaw for iOS + Supercut – Business Brain 767 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into the power of intentional language and why unnecessary change can quietly wreck a good team. We kick things off with a customer service moment that stuck with us: a tuxedo rental shop promised to call “if we have any questions,” not “if we have any problems,” and that one word swap became a masterclass in framing. We talk about why capturing good ideas the moment we have them (yes, even in our Notes app) beats trusting our memory, and why July is the perfect time to lock in next year’s holiday calendar before anyone has to ask.
Then we get into the real meat of it: how do we know if a change is worth making, or if we’re just chasing a shiny object? We break down the two questions we ask before we touch anything — are we solving a real problem, or seizing a real opportunity — and why “we’ve always done it that way” is basically a curse word in our book. We share how a two-week experiment saved us from a costly email misstep, and why walking back a change we can’t support isn’t failure, it’s smart business. It’s this kind of thoughtful, deliberate decision-making that keeps us living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #766 for Wednesday, July 1, 2026
- July 1st: Canada Day
- 00:01:26 Customer Service: Language Matters
- Returning my Tuxedo: “We’ll call you if we have any questions.” vs. “we’ll call you if we have any issues.”
- 00:05:45 QT: Reminder to create your business’s holiday calendars for 2027
- 00:07:23 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:08:55 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:10:36 Change for the sake of change
- Beware the alternative of change
- Find data to use to support/refute your decision
- 00:16:53 This Episode’s Big Takeway: Clarify your reasons for change, and be mindful of how you roll it out.
- 00:18:25 Business Brain 766 Outtro
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The post CS Language and Unnecessary Change – Business Brain 766 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we tackle a question that hits closer to home than anyone wants to admit: is AI quietly stealing your creative time the same way social media does? We dig into “faux-ductivity” — the trap of endlessly building, prompting, and tinkering in AI under the guise of getting work done, when really it’s just one more shiny barrier between you and the hard stuff that actually moves your business forward. If you’ve ever told yourself you just need to learn one more thing before you take action, this one’s for you.
Then we flip the script and show AI at its best. Inspired by Rick Rubin calling himself a “reducer” instead of a producer, we walk through how feeding your real data into Claude can cut the clutter, tighten your calls to action, and lift your numbers — newsletter open rates jumping past 50% and click rates doubling, all from learning to reduce, reduce, reduce. Stop letting your tools yes-man you, start letting them challenge your gut, and you’ll find the data-cruncher in your pocket is the real secret to living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #765 for Casual FridAI, June 26, 2026
- June 26th: National Food Truck Day
- Off The Grid Food Trucks
- Tideline Public House
- 00:01:32 Is AI stealing our immersive/creative/digital time?
- Productivity or Faux-ductivity?
- 00:07:50 Why don’t we have a Business BrAIn Mastermind?
- 00:09:28 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:11:06 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:34 Reducing with AI
- Rick Ruben, the Reducer
- Reducing…based upon data
- 00:19:01 Using AI to crunch your data
- 00:23:22 Business Brain 765 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Don’t let AI lull you into being Faux-ductive
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
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The post FridAI – Reducing and Distractions – Business Brain 765 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton tackle a topic that hits every wallet: tipping culture, and how far the pendulum has swung. We dig into why the standing-up-means-no-tip rule makes sense, how COVID-era generosity quietly became the new default, and why getting prompted to tip at the pharmacy or grocery checkout feels so absurd. We break down the math that nobody questions anymore (why a $7 beer and a $17 martini earn the same buck), the European model where tips aren’t expected, and those creeping service fees stacking on top of tax. The reset is coming, and we’re here for it.
Then we flip to the upside of customer experience with two unforgettable words: disco bathrooms. We unpack how one gas station turned a restroom into a viral, million-view marketing machine, and why every business, no matter how boring, is in the experience business. From toilet-wrapped plumber vans to funny auto-attendants to the music in your waiting room, we share simple ways to differentiate, get remembered, and earn free word-of-mouth. Make it weird, make it memorable, and keep leveling up your Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #764 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, June 24, 2026
- June 24th: Farmer Day
- 00:01:23 Tipping Culture Needs a Reset
- When was the last time you left no tip at a restaurant? We need to reset this.
- $1/drink is better because it’s the same even if I get top shelf or well.
- Restaurants that add a workers’ fund fee as a percentage of the bill
- 00:13:01 SPONSOR: FanVue. Are you ready to start your own creator journey and make it big? Visit https://www.fanvue.com/ today and launch your career!
- 00:14:40 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:16:09 Every business is in the experience business
- 00:20:18 Business Brain 764 Outtro
- This Episode’s Big Takeway: Find a way to differentiate your business
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The post Disco Bathrooms and Tipping Culture – Business Brain 764 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into the question of who really controls AI. We trade notes on Anthropic’s new Mythos model and its Fable guardrails — including a jaw-dropping account of how relentlessly capable these tools have become — and we wrestle with the bigger issue lurking underneath: when AI decides what we can and can’t do, who’s holding the keys? We talk search-engine parallels, data retention, the push for government oversight, and why locally run, private AI might be the move for protecting our business data while still tapping the power.
Then we get practical with MCPs — Model Context Protocol — and why this might be the easiest upgrade we can make to how we work. No fussy API tokens, no burning through credits letting AI drive a browser. We share real wins: connecting analytics dashboards, newsletter platforms, and entire email inboxes so our AI can summarize, draft, and act on our behalf. It’s platform-agnostic, dead simple to set up, and a genuine game-changer — exactly the kind of leverage that keeps us building the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #763 for Casual FridAI, June 19, 2026
- June 19th: Juneteenth and National Martini Day
- 00:01:44 AI Censorship
- Fable/Mythos is relentlessly good!
- Dave (unintentionally) hit Fable’s cybersecurity guidelines
- 00:12:45 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:14:26 SPONSOR: OneSkin. Born from over a decade of longevity research, OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BRAIN at https://www.oneskin.co/BRAIN #oneskinpod #ad
- 00:16:38 David-China turns on underwater datacenter
- 00:17:32 MCPs – Model Context Protocols
- Claude Cowork is becoming my primary email agent
- Fastmail Official MCP
- 00:21:44 This Episode’s Big Takeway: MCPs are easy to implement, connect your AI to more things than you realize
- 00:23:00 Business Brain 763 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into how a little personality goes a long way in business. We talk about turning our interests into businesses (and yes, making a chunk of our lives tax-deductible while we’re at it), then unpack the underrated power of the email autoresponder — how a quick, human note while we’re away humanizes our brand and earns real goodwill. From custom-wrapped fire trucks to quirky on-hold voicemail greetings, we share the small touches that drop the corporate armor and let customers connect with the actual person behind the business.
Then we shift gears to mindset, sparked by SpaceX’s IPO and the headlines crowning a first trillionaire. We make the case that wealth isn’t a zero-sum game — and that a scarcity mindset is the fastest way to stall out as an entrepreneur. We talk about choosing abundance, spreading that optimism through our teams, empowering ambitious people even when they out-earn us, and believing our best years are still ahead. It’s a reminder that minding your mindset is exactly how we build and protect the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #762 for Wednesday, June 17, 2026
- 00:01:30 June 17th: National Stewarts Root Beer Day
- 00:03:57 Make your life tax-deductible by making businesses out of your interests
- 00:07:50 Use your auto responder to personalize your business life
- Your email signature, too
- Maybe something personal in your logo
- 00:12:54 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:14:35 SPONSOR: OneSkin. Born from over a decade of longevity research, OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BRAIN at https://www.oneskin.co/BRAIN #oneskinpod #ad
- 00:16:47 Elon Becomes a Trillionaire
- Dave’s visit to Kennedy Space Center unpacked on Mac Geek Gab
- Mind your mindset – Abundance is the key
- Embrace abundance, don’t get caught in scarcity
- 00:24:13 Business Brain 762 Outtro
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The post Auto Responders and Trillionaires – Business Brain 762 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into why data centers and AI have suddenly become public enemy number one. Shannon unpacks the wave of negative press and protests, and the fascinating thread connecting some of the loudest anti-data-center voices to foreign funding—China in particular. We talk through “bring your own infrastructure” mandates, the wild ideas in play like data centers in space and underwater, and why keeping this technology stateside matters for our economy and security. It’s lobbying 101, and once we follow the money, the noise starts to make a lot more sense.
Then Dave drops a headline worth remembering: AI is non-binary. It’s not a thing we either use for everything or refuse entirely. We can hate AI in music and still love it for the grunt work that frees up our time and mental energy. History backs us up—nearly every technological leap has lifted society, even with messy displacement along the way. The takeaway? Find the spots where AI makes sense for our business, embrace it, and keep living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #761 for Casual FridAI, June 12, 2026
- June 12th: National Button Battery Awareness Day
- 00:01:41 AI vs. Datacenters
- China is doing some anti-datacenter lobbying
- BYOI for AI
- Underwater datacenters?
- Space-based datacenters?
- 00:08:04 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:09:42 AI is non-binary
- Gig Gab 536: Musicians and AI
- This episode’s big takeaway: Find ways to benefit from using AI
- 00:15:51 Business Brain 761 Outtro
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The post FridAI Datacenter Bashing + AI is Non-Binary – Business Brain 761 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we get into the balance between digital and analog life. Shannon makes the case that being “too online” dulls us, and that we need a real mix of screen time and hands-on, analog work to stay fulfilled. Whether we’re chipping branches with a chainsaw, immersing ourselves in playing music, or losing ourselves in a good book, that shift away from the screen is what keeps us sharp. The trick isn’t choosing one over the other, it’s deliberately moving between deep digital immersion and getting our hands dirty outside.
Then we dig into a powerful idea: nothing is a valid event on the calendar. We talk about why entrepreneurs say yes to everything out of an old fear of the phone going quiet, and how the “power of the pause” protects our time. Instead of an instant yes, we check the calendar, set expectations, and ask what a yes really costs us. We also get honest about how hard it is to guard those empty blocks, kill the runaway booking links, and give ourselves permission to truly rest. Protecting your nothing time is how we keep living the Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #760 for Wednesday, June 10, 2026
- June 10th: National Ballpoint Pen Day
- 00:01:59 Digital/Analog Balance
- You’re too online, you’ve lost context!
- All work and no play makes Shannon a dull boy.
- We need immersion (both digitally and in the analog world)
- 00:08:37 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:10:14 “Nothing” is a valid event on the calendar
- The Power of the Pause
- 00:16:00 Business Brain 760 Outtro
- This episode’s big takeaway: “Nothing” is a valid event on the calendar
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
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The post Digital vs Analog and All About Nothing – Business Brain 760 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we tackle a question every entrepreneur is starting to face: how do you tame your AI expenses before they tame you? It starts with a confession — burning through $15 worth of credits in a single morning by running everything on the priciest model — and opens into a bigger conversation about where the real costs hide. We talk about the difference between the static LLM on the back end and the front-end layer that actually shapes your bill, why one giant company torched $500 million in tokens in thirty days, and how much of that spend was pure duplication and waste that smarter tooling could have caught.
The takeaway for your Business Brain is twofold. First, there’s a real opportunity in building smarter front ends — caching common answers, flagging redundant work, and routing to a local or lightweight model before reaching for the expensive cloud LLM. Second, and bigger, is the management problem: as your team grows, how do you give everyone AI power while keeping eyes on usage, protecting your data, and setting SOPs that prevent the same project from being built four times over? Most of us are still figuring it out, and that gap is exactly where the next charmed-life opportunity lives.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #759 for Casual FridAI, June 5, 2026
- June 3rd: International Thank You Day
- 00:00:44 $15.22 in a morning – Paying $100/month for AI. I never thought…
- Claude vs. ChatGPT vs. Perplexity
- Perplexity Comet is the best AI Browser (even though Perplexity is the worst of the chatbots)
- Wispr Flow
- 00:09:23 SPONSOR: OneSkin. Born from over a decade of longevity research, OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BRAIN at https://www.oneskin.co/BRAIN #oneskinpod #ad
- 00:11:22 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:50 Smarter front ends for AI
- Customized corporate buffers
- Run a local LLM to manage your company’s use of the (more powerful) cloud LLM
- A company opened up token usage and spent $500 million
- This episode’s big takeaway: How does your organization manage AI use?
- Business Brain 759 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post FridAI – Taming your AI Expenses – Business Brain 759 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into why every business is now in the experience business. It starts with a tangent on tailors and cobblers — trades that feel like they’re vanishing — and lands on a bigger truth for entrepreneurs: when products and services get commoditized, the experience around them becomes the real differentiator. We look at how some towns subsidize small “lifestyle” shops to preserve their charm and character, how figures like Dave Chappelle are buying up and rebuilding small-town downtowns, and what it means when communities choose winners based on the experiences they create rather than just the money they make.
The takeaway is one to apply to your own Business Brain: whether you run an HVAC company, an accounting practice, or an e-commerce shop, ask what experience your customers actually want — from the first click to opening the box. We’ve said every business is in the customer service business and the content business; now we’re adding that every business is in the experience business too. Build the kind of experience people seek out, and you create a more durable, more charmed life for your business. Plus, a listener note on intro music and a candid look at how we use AI to build our show blueprints.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #758 for Wednesday, June 3, 2026
- 00:01:35 June 3rd: National Tailors Day
- Cobblers
- In the age of the Jetsons, you wanna live like the Flintstones
- Barber shops
- Municipalities subsidizing small business shops
- Or sometimes people with wealth buy the town (or parts of it)
- Dave Chappelle bought (most of) a town
- Diary of a Wimpy Kid author also bought (most of) a town
- Towns are buying experiences…by preserving small-town shopping
- 00:12:36 SPONSOR: OneSkin. Born from over a decade of longevity research, OneSkin’s OS-01 Peptide is proven to target the visible signs of aging, helping you unlock your healthiest skin now and as you age. Get 15% off OneSkin with the code BRAIN at https://www.oneskin.co/BRAIN #oneskinpod #ad
- 00:14:36 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:16:03 Sorry about last week’s episodic mixup!
- 00:20:01 Ian’s Business Brain Blueprint feedback
- This episode’s big takeaway: What’s your business’s experience? Every business is in the experience business.
- Business Brain 758 Outtro
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The post We’re all in the Experience Business – Business Brain 758 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we get practical about putting AI to work on the everyday stuff, not just the big business plays. Shannon walks through building a custom food log with Claude after a doctor’s visit — snap a photo, let the AI ID the ingredients, get a clean report emailed before the next appointment, and pin it to your home screen as a web app. The bigger lesson: if all we’re doing is chatting back and forth with our favorite AI, we’re missing roughly 90% of what it can do. Don’t know what we’re missing? Ask the bot itself. Build the custom tool, start a health folder (eyes wide open about feeding personal data to a third party), and let it take the grunt work off our plate.
Then Dave drops a reframe worth keeping: AI isn’t artificial intelligence, it’s assistive intelligence. It helps us, it doesn’t replace us — we’re still the one driving the bus. We connect it to history, too: when Photoshop hit, the same panic about lost jobs and “that’s not real art” played out, and it became the assistive tool every creative now relies on. The internet did the same, creating community and abundance. Every leap looks scary until it becomes the thing that powers our Charmed Life. Used right, with guidance, this is a superpower — so stop treating the chatbot like just a chatbot and start letting it build.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #757 for Casual FridAI, May 29, 2026
- May 29th: National Paperclip Day
- Trade a Paperclip for a House
- 00:01:29 Claude Food Tracker
- The SAAS-Pocalypse
- Create an iOS Home screen app with Claude
- Don’t forget to use your favorite ChatBot for every day things
- If you’re only using your ChatBot as a ChatBot, you’re missing out. Ask your ChatBot what you’re missing!
- 00:09:16 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:48 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:14 AI is Assistive Intelligence
- AI isn’t going to take jobs
- Photoshop didn’t take jobs
- They both let people replace their jobs with different jobs
- “Before the Internet, why did you need a computer?”
- This Episode’s Big Takeaway: Think about AI as your Assistive Intelligence
- 00:22:59 Business Brain 757 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into what happens when a holiday throws off your rhythm. Dave detached over Memorial Day weekend and paid for it on Tuesday, proof that a long weekend needs the same planning as a road trip if you want to land softly back at your desk. We get into the language we use to talk to ourselves, why a “to-did” list might be the best sleep aid going, and how offloading reminders frees up the brain cycles you’re burning trying to remember everything. Find the system that fits how your mind actually works, and you’ll sleep better knowing you checked the boxes that matter.
Then we break down SB Mowing — the landscaper who turned free lawn cleanups into a $2.4 million business run out of a pickup truck and trailer. Spencer films time-lapse videos of his worst overgrown yards, posts them on YouTube, and pulls 55 million followers and 3 billion annual views, no longer charging for the work because the content is worth a hundred times more. The lesson for living the Charmed Life: every business is in the social media business. Find the repetitive grunt work you already do, point a camera at it, and let the time-lapse do the marketing — whether you’re mowing lawns, running robot mowers, or tearing down a drum kit after a gig.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #756 for Wednesday, May 27, 2026
- May 27th: National Sunscreen Day
- 00:01:37 The cost of a day off.
- Dave failed to plan ahead
- The 5-Day work week is dead!
- 00:06:50 The to-did list is the very best sleep aid
- To dos vs. Reminders
- 00:10:42 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:14 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:13:39 SBMowing.com
- Time lapse videos for your business
- Dave’s gonna time lapse his robot mowers and setting up his drums
- Shannon’s gonna destroy old massage chairs
- This Episode’s Big Takeaway: The to-did list is the very best sleep aid
- 00:21:58 Business Brain 756 Outtro
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The post SB Mowing + The Cost of a Day Off – Business Brain 756 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we kick off Casual Friday AI with Dave’s pitch to learn Markdown — the plain-text format that every AI engine now prefers. Skip it, and you’re burning tokens (and cash) every time the robots have to wade through bloated Word docs. Then Shannon drops the move that’ll change your week: connect Claude to Slack and let it pull weekly summaries of wins, blockers, and who’s actually carrying the team. It’s the kind of leverage that turns a flood of channels and DMs into one tidy report waiting on your desk every Friday.
From there,We dig into Markdown for AI, connecting Claude to Slack, Claude for Small Business, and xAI voice cloning results. we dig into Claude for Small Business, the new Claude Cowork layer that plugs straight into QuickBooks, HubSpot, Google Workspace, Microsoft 365, Canva, DocuSign, and PayPal — your small business operating system, basically. Toggle one workflow on, fix one pain point, repeat. We also revisit Shannon’s xAI voice clone experiment (verdict: too old, too audiobook, needs another pass), and land on the big takeaway driving the Charmed Life right now — connect, connect, connect. The AI tools you already pay for get exponentially more powerful the moment you wire them into the platforms you actually live in.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #755 for Casual FridAI, May 22, 2026
- May 22nd: Bitcoin Pizza Day
- 00:01:39 Learn Markdown!
- 00:05:18 Connect Claude to Slack
- Weekly summaries
- Context
- Whatever you want!
- 00:07:14 SPONSOR: Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform. Download the Whatnot app today and get free shipping on your first order. Just search Whatnot in the app store and start scoring amazing deals
- 00:08:44 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:10:00 Claude for Small Business is your new business operating system
- AI Fluency for Small Businesses
- 00:13:52 X.ai Voice Cloning
- 00:16:29 This Episode’s Big Takeaway: Connect AI tools to your existing platforms
- Business Brain 755 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into the messy, human side of managing a team — specifically what happens when you take over customer service and realize the old habits have to go. Dave shares how he’s rewiring an eight-year-old support operation, swapping correction for reassurance, and learning (reluctantly) that buy-in and consensus aren’t a waste of time — they’re the whole game. The breakthrough? Stop telling your team what to say. Make them draft it, workshop it, and own it. That’s how empathy becomes a reflex instead of a script, and how your reviews start climbing without you hovering over every ticket.
Then we get into a brilliant scarcity play with Last Bottle Wines — a company that flipped the stigma of overstock liquidation into a daily, one-bottle-only event that wine snobs can’t stop sharing. We unpack how to apply that same storytelling-plus-scarcity model to your own excess inventory, and we land on the takeaway that quietly runs a Charmed Life business: teach your team to ask “What would the boss do?” before they escalate. Get that one habit locked in, and you’ll stop being the bottleneck in your own company.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #754 for Wednesday, May 20, 2026
- May 20th: Be a Millionaire Day
- 00:02:56 Managing and the Value of Buy-in and Consensus
- “What would Shannon do?”
- 00:13:00 SPONSOR: Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform. Download the Whatnot app today and get free shipping on your first order. Just search Whatnot in the app store and start scoring amazing deals
- 00:14:30 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:15:45 Last Bottle Wines
- Using scarcity for overstock items
- Learning your customer, then marketing to them that way
- 00:19:17 This Episode’s Big Takeaway: What would the boss do?
- Business Brain 754 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we unpack why so many websites still have terrible search even with AI everywhere — and it comes down to tokens. We break down what a token actually is, why feeding an LLM your entire knowledge base on every customer query gets expensive fast, and how the math changes dramatically depending on which model you choose. A real-world example shows the difference between a $2.5M-a-month implementation and a $25K one running on a leaner model. The takeaway: figure out what it’ll cost to leverage AI against your existing customer data, then decide if the lift is worth it.
Then we dive into xAI’s new Grok Custom Voices feature, which clones our voice from roughly 90 seconds of audio and plugs into text-to-speech and voice agent APIs. We riff on the Charmed Life use cases — turning written posts into audio versions for drivers, recording sponsorship reads without the edit pass, voicing phone trees in our own brand voice, and keeping content flowing even when our actual voices are blown out from too much mic time. Voice cloning is either already here or very close, and we’re going to test it in the coming weeks.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #753 for Casual FridAI, May 15, 2026
- May 15th: Customer Experience Day
- 00:01:19 AI compute tokens: Using AI/LLM for search and customer service in your business
- Sponsors
- 00:10:54 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
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- 00:13:52 Grok’s new voice cloning
- 00:17:55 This episode’s Big Takeaway for Business Blueprints: Figure out how to use AI to leverage your business’s existing data
- 00:21:57 Business Brain 753 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we’re launching something new: Business Blueprints, a free companion resource that distills each episode’s topics into actionable playbooks complete with industry context, analogies, and step-by-step plans. Grab them at businessbrain.show/blueprints. We also dig into the hidden community that surrounds every market — the “family” behind trade shows, conferences, even Ren Faires — and why participating in that ecosystem is one of the most overlooked levers for long-term business longevity.
Then we break down the viral Crawler Box story: a homemade RC off-road trailer pulling 800,000+ views across socials, and the massive opportunity its creator is leaving on the table. The big takeaway for living the Charmed Life this week — every business is in the social media business, but distribution without a net is a missed jackpot. If we’re going to fish for virality, we’d better have a lead magnet, an email capture, or a product ready to convert the catch. Build the net before the big one bites.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #752 for Wednesday, May 13, 2026
- May 13th: Cough Drop Day
- 00:02:00 Renaissance Faire
- Ren Faire Documentary
- 00:06:28 New from Business Brain: Business Blueprints
- Complete with a playbook including actionable steps
- Sponsors
- 00:11:26 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:56 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at https://shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:14:24 Dissecting a business: Crawlerbox
- $10 for 10 minutes
- Every business is in the social media business
- Don’t build a business, build a net!
- 00:22:47 This episode’s Big Takeaway for Business Blueprints: Build a net!
- Sub-takeaway: Pay attention in your businesses market for the “family” aspect
- 00:25:48 Business Brain 752 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton celebrate Casual FridAI #751 with a Reward Yourself Day kickoff before diving into the art of focus with “Don’t Think, Just Concentrate.” You’ll hear why Wispr Flow is earning rave reviews from listeners, and how voice-driven AI tools are quietly transforming the way entrepreneurs capture ideas, draft content, and reclaim hours in their week. It’s another reminder that the right tools, used right, are what keep you living the Charmed Life.
Then the guys roll up their sleeves for Prompt Engineering Time, unpacking why most AI failures aren’t the AI’s fault — they’re prompt failures. You’ll learn why micromanaging your AI is actually a feature, not a bug, and how giving Claude, ChatGPT, and friends tighter direction, clearer constraints, and more context delivers dramatically better output. If you’ve ever walked away from an AI tool frustrated, this episode hands you the playbook to flip that experience around.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #751 for Casual FridAI, May 8, 2026
- May 8th: Reward Yourself Day (and also National Phone In Sick Day)
- 00:01:34 Don’t Think, Just Concentrate
- 00:03:17 Jeffrey-Wispr Flow rocks!
- 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:11:07 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:12:38 Prompt Engineering Time!
- 00:22:54 Business Brain 751 Outtro
- This episode’s Big Takeaway: Micromanage your AI
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton kick off episode #750 by celebrating National Tourist Appreciation Day (and the lesser-known National Phone In Sick Day) before diving into a powerful business and life skill: finding common ground. You’ll learn why sports remain the universal icebreaker, how humanizing the people across the table transforms negotiations, and why discovering shared interests can unlock relationships that drive your Charmed Life forward. It’s a reminder that connection often beats credentials in business.
Then the conversation shifts to a hard-earned truth every entrepreneur needs to hear: lawyers make terrible (and incredibly expensive) therapists. Shannon and Dave break down why venting to your attorney at six-minute billing increments is one of the costliest mistakes you can make, and how to keep legal conversations focused, efficient, and strictly transactional. You’ll walk away knowing exactly when to call your lawyer, when to call a friend, and how to protect your wallet from emotional overspend.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #750 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, May 6, 2026
- May 6th: National Tourist Appreciation Day (and also National Phone In Sick Day)
- 00:01:35 The power of finding common ground to discuss
- Humanizing everyone
- Sports is a good topic
- 00:10:21 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:11:42 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:13:17 Lawyers can be expensive therapists!
- 00:21:04 Business Brain 750 Outtro
- This episode’s Big Takeaway: Your lawyer is billing you for every second (rounded up to six minute increments)
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In this episode of Business Brain, it’s FridAI and Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton are putting Anthropic’s brand-new Claude Cowork through its paces — using it with a Manager to handle real workflow delegation. If you’ve been wondering how AI agents actually fit into your day-to-day operations (instead of just answering chat questions), you’ll get a front-row look at what this tool can do and where it shines for entrepreneurs trying to multiply their output without multiplying their headcount.
Then the guys dig into AI training resources from your local Small Business Development Center, including how to get found in the age of AI and lean into AI-driven content creation. Free help from people who actually want you to win? That’s the kind of resource that turns a side hustle into the Charmed Life. Tune in, take notes, and pick one AI play you can run before Monday.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #749 for Casual FridAI, May 1, 2026
- May 1st: National Executive Coaching Day (and also National Phone In Sick Day)
- 00:01:12 Claude Cowork with a Manager
- 00:09:22 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:10:38 Small Business Development Centers
- Get found in the age of AI from SBDC
- AI Driven Content Creation
- 00:15:47 Business Brain 749 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton tackle two profit-protecting plays every entrepreneur needs to hear. First up: why you absolutely should be charging credit card convenience fees, plus the persistent myth that American Express costs more than Visa or Mastercard (spoiler: the math might surprise you). If you’re leaving margin on the table because you’re afraid to pass through fees, this segment is your wake-up call.
Then Shannon and Dave dig into Justin Kan’s killer insight that first-time founders obsess over product while second-time founders obsess over distribution. You’ll learn why social is a rented audience, newsletters give you permission, podcasts build trust, and masterminds drive the real revenue. Mix in some Rick Rubin wisdom about the work revealing itself as you go, and you’ve got the blueprint for living the Charmed Life of a second-time thinker on your first go-around. Tune in, take notes, and start building distribution before your next product.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #748 for Wednesday, April 29, 2026
- April 29th: National Shrimp Scampi Day
- 00:01:39 Make sure you charge credit card convenience fees
- 00:06:42 The myth that American Express costs more than Visa or Mastercard
- 00:11:13 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:12:34 “First Time Founders are Obsessed with Product, Second time Founders with Distribution” – Justin Kan Founder of Twitch
- Social = Rented audience
- Newsletter = Permission from audience
- Podcast = Trust-building
- Mastermind = that’s the revenue-generator
- The work reveals itself to you as you go. – Rick Rubin
- 00:22:58 Business Brain 748 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton celebrate Casual FridAI (and Scream Day, April 24th) by flipping the script on a fear a lot of builders are sitting with right now: being de-skilled by AI as a programmer. Spoiler — it’s actually great. Instead of “I’m going to be obsolete,” you get to shift to “now I can finally do all the things I never had time for.” Dave and Shannon unpack Gell-Mann Amnesia, why embracing change beats resisting it every time, and how leaning into AI tools can unlock the charmed life you’ve been chasing instead of threatening it.
From there, you’ll get into Claude Design and why Claude’s image generation is still, frankly, a joke — with real examples of where it shines and where it flops. Then the guys close with a question every entrepreneur working alongside AI is starting to ask: do I need to pay Claude CoWork a sales commission? It’s a practical look at how AI collaborators are blurring the line between tool and teammate, and what that means for how you price, credit, and build going forward.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #747 for Casual FridAI, April 24, 2026
- April 24th: Scream Day
- 00:01:23 Being De-Skilled by AI as a Programmer…is great!
- Embrace Change
- I’m going to be obsolete vs. now I can do all the things I didn’t have time for!
- Gell-Mann Amnesia
- 00:11:28 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:12:56 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:14:13 Claude Design
- 00:16:21 Claude’s image generation…is still a joke!
- 00:18:34 Do I need to pay Claud CoWork a sales commission
- 00:23:46 Business Brain 747 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton kick things off with the story behind the Candy Man documentary — the David Klein story of Jelly Belly fame — then pivot to a fun self-assessment: What’s Your Entrepreneurial Appetite? Take the quiz with them and figure out whether you’re wired to swing for the fences, build something steady, or side-hustle your way to freedom. It’s a charmed life when you actually know what flavor of entrepreneur you are before you chase the wrong dream.
From there, you’ll get the finale of the Atypical College Path series. Shannon and Dave dig into backdooring college degree requirements (callback to BB648), how to honestly weigh the ROI of college or whatever education you’re paying for, and why integrating AI into the classroom isn’t optional anymore. They also point you toward Alpha School as a glimpse of what modern learning can look like when you stop forcing old models onto new realities.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #746 for Wednesday, April 22, 2026
- April 22nd: National Jellybean Day
- Candy Man Documentary – The David Klein Story
- 00:02:21 What’s Your Entrepreneurial Appetite? – Quiz!
- 00:12:36 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:14:04 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:15:22 The Finale of the Atypical College Path
- Backdooring College Degree Requirements (BB648)
- Look at the ROI of College (or whatever education you’re going to pay for)
- Integrating AI into the classroom
- Check out Alpha School
- 00:26:07 Business Brain 746 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
- Review Business Brain
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- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post What’s Your Entrepreneurial Appetite? – Business Brain 746 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean get into the nuts and bolts of using AI to supercharge our workflows — starting with how Wednesday’s live brainstorming session on the entrepreneurial appetite quiz was essentially prompt engineering in action. Dave breaks down his approach to crafting solid prompts, putting in the reps, and letting tools like Claude handle the research grunt work while we focus on the thinking that actually matters. The key insight: garbage in, garbage out — if we don’t refine our ideas before handing them to AI, we’re wasting everyone’s time.
From there, the conversation shifts to automating their podcast publishing workflow — a manual, multi-step grind involving audio processing, transcripts, blog posts, images, and titles across multiple shows. Dave shares his framework for automation: start at 100% automated and dial back to where we’re still comfortable, rather than building up from zero. They explore stitching together APIs from services like Auphonic and WordPress, using AI to generate summaries and title options, and keeping a human in the loop for the pieces that genuinely connect with the audience. It’s a Charmed Life, but it doesn’t run itself — at least not yet.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #745 for Casual FridAI, April 17, 2026
- April 17th: International Day of Mastering Conversations That Matter
- 00:01:26 Building prompts for better results
- 00:05:16 When to automate?
- 00:14:39 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:15:50 SPONSOR: Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform and, for a limited time, Whatnot will match your first $150 sold in the first month. Visit https://whatnot.com/sell to start selling.
- 00:17:32 Automating with AI in today’s world
- Business Brain podcast production workflow
- 00:25:50 Business Brain 745 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton dig into the hard lessons of selling a business — and how we can protect ourselves when a deal falls apart. Drawing from their own experience with a failed acquisition of Deals on the Web (where they mentally checked out and let a thriving business fade), Dave breaks down the power of a cancellation clause. We learn that when a later buyer offered to cover growth costs during due diligence — with the sellers keeping everything free if the buyer walked — it changed the game entirely. The takeaway: if we’re fielding acquisition offers, we need to bake in protections that keep us motivated and compensated while the deal is in play, because selling a business is a job in itself.
Then Shannon floats an idea he’s been cooking up: an entrepreneurial appetite quiz designed to help aspiring business owners figure out if they’re truly wired for the grind. We’re talking risk tolerance, the need for a guaranteed paycheck, and whether we’d rather ride a roller coaster than bet ten grand on ourselves. It’s not about age or experience — it’s about knowing our own appetite before we jump in. Shannon plans to build it out and share it with listeners, and Dave ties it all together with a reminder to keep living that Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #744 for Wednesday, April 15, 2026
- April 15th: Tax Day
- 00:01:35 The benefits of putting a cancellation payment/clause in your acquisition agreement
- Incentivizes the deal
- It’s a litmus test to see if everyone is serious
- 00:11:46 SPONSOR: Whatnot is the largest dedicated live shopping platform and, for a limited time, Whatnot will match your first $150 sold in the first month. Visit https://whatnot.com/sell to start selling.
- 00:13:19 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit https://NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:14:43 What’s your entrepreneurial appetite?
- Finding out your entrepreneurial aptitude and preparedness
- Workshopping questions:
- Do you need guaranteed income?
- Do you mind working on a Sunday night?
- What’s your risk profile?
- Rollercoasters vs. a million dollars
- 00:20:31 Business Brain 744 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore how AI is becoming the ultimate bicycles for the mind—amplifying our thinking, speeding up execution, and opening the door to the first billion-dollar solopreneur. We lean into tools like advanced research modes to move faster from idea to insight, proving that leverage today comes from pairing human judgment with machine acceleration. The opportunity isn’t just to work harder—it’s to think bigger and act sooner.
We also discover how voice-driven workflows and AI copilots can eliminate friction, freeing us from the keyboard and giving us back time to focus on decisions that actually grow the business. The entrepreneurs who win are the ones who experiment early, adopt quickly, and stack advantages while others hesitate. That’s how we turn emerging tools into everyday habits—and build momentum toward our own Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #743 for Casual FridAI, April 10, 2026
- April 10th: International Safety Pin Day
- 00:01:24 AI Fueled the first billion-dollar solopreneur
- Bicycles for the mind
- 00:05:51 Using Claude’s Research Mode
- 00:11:29 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:52 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:13:51 Wispr Flow
- Never type an email again.
- Cotypist.ai
- 00:20:18 Business Brain 743 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
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In this episode of Business Brain, we lean into change instead of resisting it and stay in the game long enough for compounding to finally kick in. We learn to make Shiny Object Syndrome work for us, not against us, by understanding who our ideal customer is while also discovering who we are in a new industry. We watch for the moment when others start seeing our value before we do—and we treat that first small win as a signal to keep going.
We build momentum by repeating those wins, gathering real customer feedback, and pushing toward our first 100 customers with intention. We also learn to spot the red flags early—like partnership friction or getting trapped in iteration hell—so we can pivot fast and protect our progress. The message is simple: stick around, stack wins, and let time and consistency create our Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #742 for Wednesday, April 8, 2026
- April 8th: International Be Kind to Lawyers Day
- 00:01:35 Resisting Change Resistance with Change!
- 00:02:31 Being in the game long enough for compounding to start
- Making Shiny Object Syndrome your friend can avoid your compounding
- Learning who your ICP is, but also learning who YOU are in the (new) industry
- Do others see your benefits before you do?
- Find the green flags:
- The first small win
- Repeating those small wins
- Find the red flags:
- If you’re battling a partnership
- Stuck in iteration hell
- 00:13:14 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to https://bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:14:37 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting https://QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:15:35 Make sure you get customer feedback
- Getting your first 100 customers
- 00:18:27 Ideas are only worth the paper they’re written on
- 00:22:43 Business Brain 742 Outtro
- Check out Business Brain Blueprints
- Tell Your Friends!
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore how AI is rapidly erasing language barriers and expanding opportunity across borders. From real-time translation built into social platforms to earbuds that turn conversations global, we see how technology is making the world smaller and business faster. We also rediscover why in-person trade shows and conferences still matter—because relationships, trust, and spontaneous ideas remain powerful competitive advantages.
We then push productivity further by experimenting with AI tools that can control computers and complete real tasks, shifting us from simple prompts to true digital delegation. The takeaway is clear: when we combine human connection with smart automation, we create leverage, momentum, and a clearer path toward that entrepreneurial Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #741 for Casual FridAI, April 3, 2026
- April 3rd: World Party Day (and also Walk to Work day)
- 00:01:44 Suno.ai
- 00:04:31 AI Worldwide
- Grok is auto-translating X
- Google Gemini Translator works with anyone’s earbuds
- 00:08:35 The value of trade shows and conferences in today’s world
- 00:12:29 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:14:00 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:15:27 Claude Computer use
- 00:22:37 Business Brain 741 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post FridAI – AI Translation and Claude Control – Business Brain 741 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you learn to treat customer service like currency by spending two powerful tokens: the it’s nothing token and the it’s the end of the world token. You discover how the way you react sets the emotional temperature for every interaction, and how a calm, measured response can instantly build trust, loyalty, and repeat business.
You also sharpen your leadership edge by managing your ego, leading with empathy, and remembering that every customer moment is a chance to reinforce your brand. When you consistently choose compassion over defensiveness, you stack wins that move your business closer to that elusive Charmed Life every entrepreneur is chasing.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #740 for Wednesday1, April 1, 2026
- April 1st: National Sourdough Bread Day
- 00:01:43 Two Tokens of Customer Service
- The “it’s nothing” token, and the “it’s the end of the world” token.
- Show empathy and compassion
- Manage your ego
- Shannon’s write-up on the subject
- 00:11:18 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:52 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:14:20 SXSW: Los Lobos Native Sons
- “If you think it’s cool, someone else will, too.” – Los Lobos learned from Linda Rondstadt
- “One thing no one talks about is the power of their ride or die spouses.” -– Robert Rogriguez
- 00:22:00 Business Brain 740 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we flip the script on AI and start asking better questions—literally. We experiment with prompts like how can you help me more and what repetitive tasks can you take off our plate, turning large language models into proactive teammates instead of passive tools. We also push past the fear of overload and realize feeding big chunks of data into an LLM is not only okay—it’s powerful. From discovering image-generation standouts like Nano Banana Pro to seeing hyper-local innovation with the Locally AI showcased at South by Southwest, we learn that the real advantage comes from treating AI like a collaborator that helps us design a smarter path to our Charmed Life.
Then we dive into the emerging workflows that make AI truly operational inside a business. We explore tools like Claudeand the growing practice of building structured knowledge files like CLAUDE.md to give AI context it can act on instantly. We also look at the expanding ecosystem around Comet, now available on desktop and iPhone, and what that means for real-time execution wherever we work. In this episode of Business Brain, we see that the winners in the AI era won’t be the ones with the fanciest tools—they’ll be the ones who systemize how those tools think, remember, and help us move faster.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #739 for Casual FridAI, March 27, 2026
- March 27th: Quirky Country Music Song Titles Day
- 00:01:13 Ask your LLM how can you help me more?
- Prompt: What do you need to know about (or from) me to help me more?
- Prompt: How can you take away common, repetitive tasks?
- The best LLM for images (according to Dave): Nano Banana Pro
- 00:04:05 Feeding large chunks of data into the LLM is OK!
- Sponsors
- 00:06:49 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:08:14 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:09:32 SXSW Session on Local AI: A More Personal Computer-How AI is Transforming Desktops
- Locally AI app to run models locally on your iPhone
- Eney from MacPaw
- 00:12:37 Claude Dispatch
- 00:16:11 CLAUDE.md files
- Import into Claude
- 00:18:20 Comet for Desktop…and Comet for iPhone!
- 00:20:25 Business Brain 739 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we step into the electric energy of South by Southwest 2026 and see firsthand how creativity and commerce collide. We watch lifestyle entrepreneurs like Jack Johnson build ventures such as SURFILMUSIC that align business with the life they actually want to live. The takeaway is clear: we don’t build businesses to escape our lives—we design them to support our version of a Charmed Life. When our aspirations serve our lifestyle, not the other way around, work becomes sustainable, flexible, and deeply rewarding.
Then we zoom in on the next generation of entrepreneurs and realize the kids are more than alright—they’re already thinking like owners. From a high school junior buying a struggling flat-pack furniture business to a college student placing TVs in restaurants and selling ads on the screens, we see opportunity reframed through fresh eyes. In this episode of Business Brain, we’re reminded that entrepreneurship isn’t about age or credentials—it’s about curiosity, problem-solving, and the willingness to act. The future looks bright because the next wave of builders is already here, and they’re moving fast.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #738 for Wednesday, March 25, 2026
- March 25th: International Waffle Day
- 00:02:19 The experience of SXSW 2026
- 00:06:10 SXSW: Jack Johnson’s SURFILMUSIC – Truly a lifestyle business
- Letting your your aspirations work in service of your lifestyle
- Sponsors
- 00:14:30 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:15:55 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:17:14 The kids are alright – reframing opportunities
- Cooper: give TVs to restaurants and sell ads on the TV screens
- HS Junior: Buy a flat-pack furniture business and make it profitable
- Lots of hope for entrepreneurship
- 00:23:05 Business Brain 738 Outtro
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The post SXSW + The Kids Are Alright – Business Brain 738 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we challenge how much we’re relying on AI—and what happens if it suddenly disappears. Inspired by the spirit of Alien Abduction Day, we ask the uncomfortable question: who’s got our AI backup? We break down the difference between wrappers and true LLMs, and why blindly building on top of tools we don’t control can put our businesses at risk. Building a Charmed Life means thinking ahead, not just optimizing for convenience today.
We also get practical about protecting ourselves by diversifying tools and owning more of our stack. From exploring setups like OpenClaw to leveraging platforms like GitHub and SaneBox, we focus on creating resilience and flexibility. In this episode of Business Brain, we remind ourselves that smart entrepreneurs don’t just adopt AI—they build systems that survive without it.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #737 for Casual FridAI, March 20, 2026
- March 20th: Alien Abduction Day
- 00:01:13 Are you relying upon AI too much?
- Using Models in your Business – What’s your backup?
- Wrappers vs. LLMs
- Sponsors
- 00:11:28 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:12:53 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:14:10 Setting up OpenClaw
- SaneBox
- GitHub
- 00:25:03 Business Brain 737 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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In this episode of Business Brain, we get grounded by going back to basics—because even seasoned entrepreneurs forget how powerful the fundamentals can be. Inspired by the story of the Cornbread Mafia highlighted at SXSW, we explore how simple ideas, executed well, can scale into something massive. You’re reminded that success isn’t always about chasing the next shiny tactic—it’s about mastering what already works and leaning into it to build your Charmed Life.
We also dig into the importance of sweating the small stuff—yes, even something as simple as “tying your shoes.” That means documenting your processes, refining the details, and creating repeatable systems that keep your business running smoothly. In this episode of Business Brain, we reinforce that clarity comes from simplicity, and growth comes from consistency. When you focus on the basics and execute with intention, you create momentum that compounds over time.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #736 for Wednesday, March 18, 2026
- March 18th: Awkward Moments Day
- 00:02:47 REVIEW: Cornbread Mafia @ SXSW
- Sponsor
- 00:11:16 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:12:41 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:58 Let’s talk about tying your shoes
- Start with the basics; start at the beginning
- Details matter
- Start with the basics
- Document what you’re doing
- 00:18:22 Business Brain 736 Outtro
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The post Back to Basics and the Cornbread Mafia – Business Brain 736 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we roll into Casual FridAI by unveiling a new concept: Business Blueprints built in beta. Instead of vague ideas, we focus on creating actionable frameworks entrepreneurs can actually use to launch, test, and refine real businesses. We talk through why shipping early matters, how beta thinking accelerates learning, and why inviting feedback from fellow entrepreneurs helps sharpen ideas faster. It’s all about building practical tools that move us closer to running businesses that support our Charmed Life.
We also explore how AI tools are changing the way entrepreneurs experiment and build. From pushing the boundaries of what’s possible with tools like Claude to exploring platforms like Perplexity Computer, we discuss how sometimes the fastest path forward is learning when to skip unnecessary permissions and simply start testing. The takeaway: move fast, experiment often, and use emerging tools to prototype ideas before everyone else catches up.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #735 for Casual FridAI, March 13, 2026
- March 13th: National Open an Umbrella Indoors Day
- 00:01:16 The Business of Birthing Beta Business Blueprints
- They need to be actionable!
- Do you want to beta test these?
- Sponsors
- 00:09:05 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:24 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:11:46 Doug-You can Dangerously Skip Permissions in Claude if you want
- 00:15:47 Perplexity Computer
- 00:20:01 Business Brain 735 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post FridAI Business Blueprints and Skipping Permissions – Business Brain 735 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
n this episode of Business Brain, we dig into a truth many entrepreneurs miss: selling starts long before the transaction. We explore how personality is one of the most powerful sales tools we have—whether we’re selling beer at a baseball game, handmade goods at a craft fair, or podcast ads. Humor, scarcity, and helpful tips all trigger the law of reciprocity, building trust and momentum before the ask even happens. When we lean into authentic connection, selling stops feeling pushy and starts feeling natural—another step toward building our Charmed Life.
We also break down the danger of operating at the slowest common denominator inside a business. Just like a band can only move as fast as its least prepared member, companies stall when systems, partners, or team members lag behind. We talk through how to recognize these friction points and raise the standard so the entire organization can move faster, smarter, and more profitably.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #734 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, March 11, 2026 https://businessbrain.show/
- 00:01:04 March 11th: World Plumbing Day
- 00:02:37 Always be learning about selling!
- Selling isn’t about the last part of the transaction, it’s about the first.
- You need to have your personality in your business
- Selling beer at baseball games…with humor!
- Selling trinkets at a craft fair… with scarcity!
- Selling podcast ads… with a helpful tip about free music!
- The law of reciprocity
- Sponsors
- 00:11:14 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:34 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll is evolving beyond pay runs to support how you hire, onboard, manage, and retain your team. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/workforce
- 00:13:57 Bands and Businesses – Slowest Common Denominator
- How do you address this in your business?
- 00:23:43 Business Brain 734 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post Personality and the Slowest Common Denominator – Business Brain 734 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore how AI tools like Manus and Claude are changing the way entrepreneurs run their businesses. We talk about building your own financial dashboards, automating marketing tasks like Facebook ads, and finally unlocking the power of Claude Code to streamline development and decision-making. Instead of just talking about AI, we focus on practical ways we can put these tools to work right now to move faster and smarter.
We also tackle the AI Fear Loop and why every major technology shift feels disruptive at first. The jobs that disappear are easy to see, but the opportunities created by new tools are still invisible because they haven’t been invented yet. In this episode of Business Brain, we remind ourselves that leaning into experimentation with AI is how we stay ahead and keep building toward our own Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #733 for Casual FridAI, March 6, 2026
- March 6th: Day of The Dude
- 00:01:43 Generating your own financial dashboard
- Manus to the rescue
- Manus can run your Facebook ads
- 00:07:14 Stuck in the AI Fear Loop?
- Every major technology shift follows the same pattern: the jobs it kills are visible, the jobs it creates are invisible because they don’t exist yet.
- Sponsors
- 00:10:27 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:12:20 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:13:31 Finally Leveraging Claude Code
- 00:26:35 Business Brain 733 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we focus on the power of getting your first 100 customers and why speed beats perfection every time. Instead of overthinking your launch, we lean into action—getting real people using your product as quickly as possible. We talk about capturing valuable data, gathering testimonials, and even giving your product away early to learn what actually resonates. Those first customers become your proving ground, helping you refine your offer while avoiding the trap of analysis paralysis.
We also dig into why buying and selling are emotional decisions and how those early customer interactions help you understand the real motivations behind a purchase. Along the way, we share how simply creating—whether content, products, or experiments—builds momentum toward your own Charmed Life. In this episode of Business Brain, we remind ourselves that the fastest path to traction is learning directly from real users and letting those first 100 customers guide the next steps.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #732 for Wednesday, March 4, 2026
- 00:01:12 March 4th: National Grammar Day
- Grammarly Pro
- The value of just creating content: written, audio, whatever. Just do it!
- 00:07:11 Which LLM are you using, and for what?
- ChatGPT
- Perplexity
- Claude
- Sponsor
- 00:09:02 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:10:53 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:12:06 Your first 100 customers
- Capture data from them
- Don’t charge them, just use them as a test
- The value of giving away your product
- Get your testimonials
- Makes it easier to get a product to market
- 00:15:34 Buying and Selling are emotional decisions
- Tell us we’re wrong!
- The first 100 customers test avoids analysis paralysis
- 00:21:18 Business Brain 732 Outtro
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The post Your First 100 Customers – Business Brain 732 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into FridAI territory with updates, experiments, and smarter AI workflows. We kick things off with a Press Row Hoops app update, then pivot into something far more powerful: upgrading our custom AI instructions. Instead of settling for generic outputs, we refine how ChatGPT behaves—focusing on decision-making style, pushback tolerance, clarity versus depth, and minimizing fluff. We share a tight prompt that forces better performance from ChatGPT 5.2, helping us get sharper answers with fewer wasted cycles. The goal? Make AI think more like we do.
We also explore Google’s Pomelli and what it signals about where AI tools are heading. The bigger takeaway is this: when we intentionally design how AI supports us, we reclaim leverage and reduce friction. We stop accepting default settings and start engineering better results. That’s how we build businesses—and lives—on our terms. That’s the path to a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #731 for Casual FridAI, February 27th, 2026
- February 27th: Anosmia Awareness Day
- 00:01:22 David-Press Row Hoops app update
- 00:05:27 Ian-Update your custom AI prompt/instructions, and here’s a prompt:
- Review my existing custom instructions.
- Identify what works well and what is outdated, redundant, unclear, or ineffective for ChatGPT 5.2.
- Ask only the minimum number of high-value questions needed to meaningfully improve the instructions.
- Questions should focus on decision-making style, pushback tolerance, clarity vs depth, and how I prefer ChatGPT to behave when uncertain.
- Do not ask generic preference questions or enter question loops.
- After I answer, draft a replacement custom instruction that reflects my preferences and how I actually use ChatGPT.
- Requirements for the new custom instruction:
- Maximum 1500 characters, including spaces and line breaks.
- Written as direct instructions to ChatGPT, ready to paste.
- Optimized for ChatGPT 5.2 behavior.
- Clear, human-sounding, and practical.
- Favor correctness over politeness.
- Avoid fluff, buzzwords, and assistant-sounding language.
- Minimize unnecessary clarifying questions.
- Default to direct answers with light supporting rationale.
- Be opinionated when useful and push back on weak assumptions.
- Reuse prior context and preferences automatically unless I say otherwise.
- Constraints:
- Do not draft the final instructions until after I answer your questions.
- Do not explain your reasoning unless I ask.
- Deliver one final custom instruction, not multiple options.
- Review my existing custom instructions.
- Sponsors
- 00:08:09 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:10:03 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:11:26 Google Pomelli
- 00:18:00 Business Brain 731 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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In this episode of Business Brain, we flip the script on goal-setting and show why assistants + systems beat goals every time. Instead of obsessing over outcomes, we build repeatable processes that run without us. We start by designing systems, then hire (or delegate to) assistants to execute them at an 80/20 level—80% as good as we’d do it ourselves for $20/hour. We use generative AI to define roles, outline tasks, and create clarity before we ever bring someone on. The real move? Identify what we love to do, then empower our assistant to figure out the rest. That’s how we create leverage.
We also normalize AI across our teams—giving everyone permission to use it to work smarter and faster. It’s not about grinding toward some distant target; it’s about engineering a business that supports our version of a Charmed Life. When we stop worshipping goals and start building systems that scale through people and AI, everything changes. Less friction. More momentum. Better results.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #730 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, February 25th, 2026
- February 25th: Inconvenience Yourself Day
- Happy 11th Anniversary of Business Brain on February 19th!
- 00:01:58 Systems and Assistants
- Develop systems…and the best way to do that is to get an assistant!
- Use generative AI to help you define what you’re going to have your assistant do for you
- Follow the 80/20 rule (80% as good as you, $20/hour)
- Identify the things that you would like to do, then empower your assistant to figure it out!
- Sponsors
- 00:14:52 SPONSOR: Granola is an AI-powered notepad built for the way real people actually meet, and it integrates seamlessly into the video conferencing tools you already use. Try Granola totally free for three months – just head to granola.ai/brain.
- 00:16:49 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:18:12 Tip: Tell your team it’s OK to use AI to help them do their jobs
- 00:19:50 We need another word to replace the G-word.
- Atomic Habits
- 00:26:06 Business Brain 730 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we dive into FridAI with real-world experiments using Lindy and OpenClaw. We break down how we’re actually deploying Lindy inside the business, where it shines, and where the internet still “needs fingers.” Then we explore Dave’s OpenClaw setup powered by Kimi K2.5, digging into what happens when open-source AI tools get powerful enough to compete with the big players. This isn’t theory—we’re testing workflows, pushing buttons, and seeing what breaks.
We also unpack what it means when the creator of OpenClaw gets hired by OpenAI—and what that signals about the speed of the AI arms race. In this episode of Business Brain, we challenge ourselves to experiment faster, integrate smarter, and stay curious as these tools evolve in real time. That’s how we leverage AI to build our Charmed Life—by staying hands-on, adaptable, and always willing to test what’s next.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #729 for Casual FridAI, February 20th, 2026
- February 20th: National Love Your Pet Day
- 00:01:05 Shannon’s using Lindy
- 00:06:52 X Needs Fingers
- 00:10:11 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:11:54 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:27 Dave set up OpenClaw
- Kimi K2.5
- 00:25:37 OpenClaw Creator hired by OpenAI
- 00:26:23 Business Brain 729 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we tackle what happens when the market needs a Yarbo competitor—and imitation shows up at our door. When someone we trained becomes a competitor, it can feel personal. But we don’t let our thoughts run the business. We remember we are observers of our thoughts, not prisoners to them. Instead of reacting, we lean into coopetition. Imitation becomes validation. Competition becomes proof we’re building something that matters. That mindset keeps us focused on creating our own Charmed Life.
We also redefine what fail fast really means. We don’t glorify failure—we design quick experiments that give us real data, fast. Small bets. Rapid feedback. Clear decisions. Then we move. In this episode of Business Brain, we turn imitation into strategy and failure into fuel, building smarter, faster, and with more intention every step of the way.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #728 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, February 18th, 2026
- February 18th: National Drink Wine Day
- 00:01:33 The market needs a Yarbo competitor!
- 00:04:06 Unflattering Imitation
- When you train people and then they decide to start competing with you
- Coopetition is the answer
- We are not our thoughts, we are observers of our thoughts
- Sponsors
- 00:13:30 SPONSOR: Fundera from NerdWallet – A free, easy-to-use platform that lets you compare real financing offers from trusted lenders — all in one place. Visit NerdWallet.com/BRAIN to learn more and talk to a real person!
- 00:15:14 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:16:46 “Fail Fast” means create quick experiments that give you data quickly and then you can make a decision and move forward
- 00:22:18 Business Brain 728 Outtro
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The post Coopetition and Failing Fast – Business Brain 728 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we confront the real limits of AI agents and what they mean for our workflow. From cleaning up contradictory ChatGPT memory instructions to testing AI autocomplete tools like Cotypist and connecting health data inside Claude, we explore where AI truly creates leverage—and where it hits hard caps. With monthly browser agent limits and restricted agent requests, we’re reminded that automation isn’t infinite, and strategy matters more than ever.
We also look at AI through the lens of ownership and responsibility—especially on a day built around apology and blame. Are we using AI to intentionally design our Charmed Life, or are we outsourcing our thinking? In this episode of Business Brain, we define smarter automation, push against AI agent constraints, and stay in control of the systems powering our business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #727 for Casual FridAI, February 13th, 2026
- February 13th: National Apology Day and National Blame Someone Else Day
- 00:01:28 Sadie-Edit your ChatGPT memory’s contradicting instructions
- 00:04:51 Cotypist – AI Autocomplete for the Mac
- 00:07:14 Claude let me connect my Health data
- 00:11:09 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:12:39 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:14:06 AI Agent Limits
- ChatGPT limited Agent Requests
- Monthly Browser Agent Limits
- https://Claude.ai/giggab for half-price Claude for 3 months
- 00:24:00 Business Brain 727 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we face a hard truth: boredom isn’t a slump—it’s the plateau we built. When things get stable, we can start manufacturing chaos just to feel like the hero again. Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton push us to notice when routine becomes the enemy and when “busy” replaces real momentum. Instead of chasing noise, we learn to spot the patterns that keep us stuck and break through with intention.
We also tackle the tension between prioritizing revenue and protecting our Charmed Life. At 3pm, we can reset with two refocusing questions: What’s the most important thing we can do right now to increase revenue? And what’s the most important thing we can do to enhance our charmed life? In this episode of Business Brain, we redefine productivity, escape the boredom trap, and design growth without sacrificing the life we’re building.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #726 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, February 11th, 2026
- February 11th: National Inventors Day
- 00:01:24 We’ll use Suno to update our theme song
- 00:02:38 Boredom is the Plateau
- TRIBE Founders Group
- If we get bored… are we intentionally creating problems to be the hero?
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Sponsors
- 00:10:35 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:12:11 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:13:38 Do You Prioritize Revenue or Charmed Life?
- Routine is the enemy
- Productive vs. Busy
- 3pm re-focusing questions
- What’s the most important thing to do right now to increase my revenue?
- What’s the most important thing to do right now to enhance my charmed life?
- 00:22:56 Business Brain 726 Outtro
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The post Boredom is the Plateau – Business Brain 726 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dig into how AI is quickly becoming a true coworker, not just a tool. We explore deeper ChatGPT personalization, AI-driven tech support (even through smart glasses), and what it means to “hire” agents like Claude to think, write, and problem-solve alongside us. From autocomplete apps to AI companions inspired by sci-fi, we reframe AI as something we employ intentionally—on our terms.
We also push ourselves to think bigger about how we make money in the AI age. As automation accelerates, we focus on what still matters most: human connection, trust, and creativity. By using AI to amplify—not replace—our unique value, we position ourselves to stay relevant, grow revenue, and design a Charmed Life that blends smart tech with meaningful work.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #725 for Casual FridAI, February 6th, 2026
- February 6th: Working Naked Day
- 00:02:05 Join ChatGPT Health Waitlist
- 00:03:07 More ChatGPT personalization
- 00:05:17 Tech Support with AI
- Using the Meta AI glasses for tech support
- 00:08:20 David-Try Cotypist, an AI-powered autocomplete app
- Sponsors
- 00:09:40 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:10:58 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:35 Employing Claude Cowork for real life
- 00:27:01 Moltbook (and OpenClaw)
- Jane from Ender’s Game…
- Perplexity Comet Browser
- 00:31:36 How do we make money in the AI age?
- People want to connect
- 00:37:58 Business Brain 725 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you’re challenged to rethink your relationship with shiny objects—are they real opportunities or just distractions dressed up as progress? You explore how tools, platforms, and trends can open doors or quietly hijack your focus, especially when that smartphone Pandora’s Box is always within reach. By reframing “shiny object syndrome” into intentional “shiny object opportunities,” you learn how to stay curious without losing control—and how smart entrepreneurs choose what deserves their attention.
You’re also pushed to ask a deceptively simple question: what do you actually want to do today? Drawing inspiration from Steve Jobs’ famous reflection on living with intention, this episode helps you align daily decisions with the bigger picture of building a Charmed Life. It’s about cutting through noise, choosing with purpose, and making sure the business you’re building still serves the life you want to live.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #724 for Wednesday, February 4th, 2026
- February 4th: Facebook’s Birthday
- 00:01:32 Managing the smartphone Pandora’s Box
- And celebrating(?) Facebook’s birthday!
- Sponsors
- 00:07:36 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:08:58 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:34 Shiny Object Opportunity vs Syndrome
- 00:15:18 What do I want to do today?
- Steve Jobs: If today were the last day of my life…
- 00:18:00 Business Brain 724 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post Shiny Object Opportunities – Business Brain 724 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore how shared chats and AI-first tools are reshaping research, collaboration, and decision-making for entrepreneurs. They break down ChatGPT shared chats, compare them with Perplexity, and discuss what AI-powered browsers bring to modern workflows. The focus stays practical: using these tools to create clarity and speed, not distraction, while keeping human judgment firmly in control.
The conversation then shifts to AI agents and how they can be applied to real business problems without over-automation or blind trust. Shannon and Dave examine where agents provide true leverage, how they fit into existing systems, and why intentional use matters more than novelty. Done right, these tools help entrepreneurs reclaim time, sharpen focus, and build businesses that support a smarter workflow and a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #723 for Casual FridAI, January 30th, 2026
- January 30th: National Big Wig Day
- 00:01:24 ChatGPT Shared Chats
- Perplexity
- Comet, the Perplexity Browser
- 00:10:03 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! https://shopify.com/businessbrain
- 00:11:46 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll https://quickbooks.com/payroll
- 00:12:54 Covey1224-BB Review-Casual insights from real business minds
- 00:13:34 Adria Flor-BB Review-Great insights in every episode!
- 00:14:02 Using AI Agents
- 00:24:00 Business Brain 723 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton break down why perfection is the enemy of shipped—and why waiting for “ready” often means never launching at all. They explore the power of defining a clear Minimum Viable Product, getting comfortable with imperfection, and building momentum through action instead of endless refinement. With practical guidance and a real-time example, they show how progress consistently beats polish when building a business.
The conversation also tackles the mental game of shipping, especially when criticism comes into play. Shannon and Dave unpack how to weigh useful feedback, ignore trolls, and stop giving emotional energy to noise that doesn’t matter. By reframing criticism and staying focused on forward motion, entrepreneurs can protect their mindset, ship more confidently, and continue building a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #722 for Wednesday, January 28th, 2026
- January 28th: National Blueberry Pancake Day
- 00:02:41 Perfect is the enemy of SHIPPED
- It’s good to have backup plans
- It’s good to get used to not being great 100% of the time
- Define your Minimum Viable Product
- 00:09:16 A real-time example!
- Perfection is the unattainable goal
- 00:13:57 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:15:39 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:16:48 Weighing the value of criticism
- It’s hard to ignore the trolls
- 00:19:08 Why would I let this criticism bother me?
- 00:25:30 Business Brain 722 Outtro
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The post Perfection is the enemy of Shipped – Business Brain 722 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore how AI is reshaping creativity, decision-making, and trust in modern business. The conversation examines whether AI-generated advertising risks damaging a brand, highlights a 2025 AI-assisted album, and looks at how authenticity and human judgment still matter when machines enter the creative process.
The episode also digs into AI’s growing role in medicine, personal intelligence tools like Gemini, and the emergence of Claude Cowork and Claude Code as always-on collaborators for real work. With a practical lens on responsibility, delegation, and guardrails, the discussion focuses on using AI to create leverage without surrendering control—supporting smarter businesses and a more intentional, Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #721 for Casual FridAI, January 23rd, 2026
- January 23rd: Measure Your Feet Day
- SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:01:58 Robert-Is AI Advertising Damaging your brand?
- Jack Tempchin 2025 AI-assisted album
- 00:06:19 Doctors Using AI
- 00:10:31 Gemini Personal Intelligence
- 00:14:28 Claude Cowork
- Claude Code for the rest of your work
- 00:29:57 Business Brain 721 Outtro
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The post FridAI Claude Cowork + AI in Medicine – Business Brain 721 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton are joined by Juliana Berger, Head of Payments at QuickBooks, to unpack where founders most often misunderstand how cashflow systems actually connect. They explore the “mycelium” of a business—the meaningful connectivity layer where every dollar in and every dollar out matters—and why fragmented tools quietly create anxiety, inefficiency, and blind spots that erode confidence.
The conversation dives into what truly defines business health: durable, predictable cashflow. From cashflow run rate and cash efficiency to DSO, DPO, and operational resiliency, the hosts break down how accuracy, automation, and smart guardrails create leverage instead of chaos. With insights on using AI the right way—through permissions, visibility, and trust-building controls—this episode shows how clarity fuels better decisions and a more intentional, Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #720 for Wednesday Casual FridAI, January 21st, 2026
- January 21st: Thank Your Mentor Day
- Guest Co-host: Juliana Berger, Director of Product Management, Head of Payments at Intuit QuickBooks
- SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- Where do founder misunderstand how all the cashflow systems interconnect
- What’s the mycelium of your business – what’s the connectivity layer? Where do things connect in a MEANINGFUL way?
- Every dollar in and every dollar out matters… and QuickBooks gets to see that
- Helping the anxious candlemaker who was using 16 different apps/tools to manage her business
- What determines the health of a business?
- Durable and predictable cashflow are the keys to this!
- Cashflow run rate: how much in and out? Is it consistent? Know your business.
- Know your cash efficiency. DSO vs. DPO
- DSO: Days sales outstanding
- DPO: Days payable outstanding
- Know Your Resiliency – What’s the riskiest part of your business and how are you managing that?
- Using AI and automation the RIGHT way
- Accuracy is power
- When things are accurate, that’s great.
- When they’re inaccurate, you just created WAY more work for yourself
- Important guardrails to look for when evaluating a tool
- Permissions and approvals
- Visibility and defensibility of information
- Controls… UNDO is important for trust
- Intuit also has trusted live experts in addition to all the other tools
- Business Brain 720 Outtro
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The post Juliana Berger, QuickBooks Head of Payments – Business Brain 720 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you get a fast-moving take on CES 2026 and what it signals for real-world AI adoption. You hear how AI showed up everywhere—from automated email responders and agent-based calendars to personal AI assistants and wearable tech that quietly gathers insights. The focus isn’t hype; it’s how these tools can actually change the way you work, decide, and compete.
The conversation then shifts to opportunity, putting you squarely in the frame as an AI consultant in the making. You’re encouraged to build credibility by creating simple tools, narrowing your niche, and becoming the go-to authority for a specific industry. By trading early work for testimonials and referrals, you can turn emerging tech into real leverage and design a business that supports your Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #719 for Casual FridAI, January 16th, 2026
- January 16th: Book Publishers’ Day
- 00:01:07 General CES Reactions
- 00:03:54 AI Found at CES 2026
- Eloquens automated AI email responder
- ionCity– AI agent calendar
- Bee-Your personal AI
- Pebble AI Ring
- Sponsors
- 00:10:39 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:12:03 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:13:28 Pebble AI Ring: Single Use, 2-year battery, $75 pre-order
- 00:13:50 Opportunity: Be an AI Consultant
- Build credibility: Create tools to giveaway.
- Find a niche: are you the AI plumbing-business authority?
- Work for testimonials and referrals
- PlaymakersAI.com
- 00:21:20 Business Brain 719 Outtro
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The post FridAI – CES + AI Consulting – Business Brain 719 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore a deceptively simple question: who sets the pace in a business? The conversation digs into marketing that acts like camouflage—so effective it disappears—and why blending in can cost entrepreneurs attention and opportunity. Through unexpected examples, they highlight the importance of standing out intentionally instead of hiding in plain sight.
The episode also zeroes in on the power of small numbers, reminding listeners that momentum often starts with chasing hundred-dollar wins, not waiting for big breakthroughs. By focusing on selling early, tracking what actually matters, and keeping cash flowing, the show reinforces practical habits that help entrepreneurs regain control and build a business that supports a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #718 for Wednesday, January 14th, 2026
- January 14th: Organize Your Home Day
- 00:01:25 Marketing…camouflage…and hiding from fish!
- Trademarked camouflage patterns
- Raye Clan Tartan
- 00:03:34 The power of small numbers
- Chasing hundred dollar bills
- Start selling, get the cash flowing
- Track the small numbers
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Sponsor
- 00:09:29 SPONSOR: Tempo – Tempo delivers perfectly-portion meals to your door, each is ready in just 2 minutes. For a limited time, Tempo is offering Business Brain listeners SIXTY PERCENT OFF your first box at TempoMeals.com/brain
- 00:10:54 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- BB Reviews
- 00:12:19 CC_Jeepher-BB Review-Great podcast!
- 00:13:01 JulezSeaz-BB Review-Practical & Accessible
- 00:13:37 Who sets the pace?
- Pacing vs. Complacency
- Hire for energy
- 00:19:08 Match impatience!
- 00:21:29 Business Brain 718 Outtro
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The post Who Sets the Pace? Business Brain 718 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you’re challenged to stop using AI as a polite yes-man and start treating it like a ruthless sparring partner. You learn how to pressure-test your thinking before you ever type a prompt by defining the real decision, the outcome that actually matters, and the constraints you refuse to break. Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton walk you through using AI to surface opposing viewpoints, rank options by impact instead of effort, and expose second-order consequences that can make or break your strategy. This is how you sharpen judgment instead of outsourcing it.
You’re also reminded that adaptation has no age limit, with a perfect real-world example that proves curiosity beats complacency every time. Whether you’re refining decisions or embracing new tools, the message is clear: stay flexible, stay critical, and keep building your Charmed Life by thinking better, not just faster.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #717 for Casual FridAI, January 9th, 2026
- January 9th: Static Electricity Day
- 00:01:21 Your Chat AI should be your sparring partner, not your yes-man
- Ruthless AI Test
- Before using AI, answer:
- What decision am I trying to improve?
- What outcome actually matters?
- What constraints must not be violated?
- What would ‘great’ vs ‘average’ look like?
- Then use AI to:
- Generate multiple opposing viewpoints
- Rank options by impact, not effort
- Simulate second-order consequences
- Before using AI, answer:
- Ruthless AI Test
- 00:08:22 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:09:49 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:11:03 98-year-old mom using Meta Glasses
- Keep adapting, folks!
- 00:18:32 Business Brain 717 Outtro
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The post FridAI – No AI Yes Men – Business Brain 717 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you’re challenged to think differently about how people experience you and your business. You explore why your personal brand is more powerful than any logo or company name, because people connect with you first. From lessons inspired by Crazy Eddie to the idea of the Alter Ego Effect, you’re reminded that sharing what you’ve learned—and giving yourself permission to evolve—builds trust faster than polished marketing ever could.
You also learn how consistency compounds over time, why replying first with value puts you on the radar of bigger players, and how small daily actions can lead to a Charmed Life. Whether you’re heading to CES or simply rethinking your direction, the message is clear: show up, add value, and play the long game. If the lottery were free, you’d play every day—so why wouldn’t you do the same with your personal brand?
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #716 for Wednesday, January 7th, 2026
- January 7th: I Am a Mentor Day
- 00:01:10 Heading to CES and making it valuable
- 00:02:19 Give yourself permission to change your mind
- 00:08:00 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per-month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:09:28 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Leave the chaos behind and start the new year off right with QuickBooks Payroll. Learn more by visiting QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:10:45 Personal brand
- Remembering Crazy Eddie
- Your personal brand is far more powerful for people to connect with
- It’s easier for people to connect with YOU than it is to connect with a company
- The Alter Ego Effect
- Share things you’ve learned
- Reply first – Add valuable content to larger accounts
- Be Consistent
- If a lottery was free, would you play every day?
- 00:21:34 Business Brain 716 Outtro
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The post The Power of Your Personal Brand – Business Brain 716 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, you step into the fast-moving world of AI and learn how to choose the right tool for the job. You compare Perplexity, ChatGPT, Claude, and Gemini, with real-world insight into why Perplexity may hallucinate less right now. You explore purpose-built tools like Gamma AI for presentations, NotebookLM for research, Manus AI for automation, and creative powerhouses like Sora AI and Google Veo. The focus is simple: stop chasing shiny objects and start picking AI that actually moves your business forward.
You also hear how AI is showing up in everyday workflows with Loom AI and Zoom AI, making communication faster and smarter. The episode wraps with the 2025 Business Brain MacBook Giveaway winner announcement, reinforcing why listening with intention can pay off. It’s all about making better decisions, working smarter, and building your own Charmed Life with the right mix of strategy and technology.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #715 for Casual FridAI, January 2nd, 2026
- January 2nd: National Science Fiction Day
- 00:01:31 Choosing the right AI
- Perplexity vs. ChatGPT vs. Claude vs. Gemini
- Anecdotally, Perplexity hallucinates less than ChatGPT today
- Gamma AI for creating presentations
- NotebookLM
- Manus AI
- Google Veo
- Sora AI
- Loom AI
- Zoom AI
- 00:11:56 2025 Business Brain MacBook Giveaway Winner — Scott, aka “BB Review-WeRPID-A Must-Listen for Anyone with a Growth Mindset” from 663 on July 4th, 2025
- Review Business Brain
- 00:16:15 Business Brain 715 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you step back and review what 2025 really taught you as an entrepreneur. You’re challenged to stop being transactional and start building a transformational community, to take control of your feeds instead of letting social media control you, and to notice where distractions have quietly turned into complacency. Shannon and Dave remind you that hunger fades if you let it—and that staying sharp sometimes means becoming your own friendly pest in pursuit of progress and a truly Charmed Life.
You’re encouraged to embrace the fear of failure, run smart business experiments, and consciously choose the people shaping your thinking. Drawing inspiration from Founders Podcast and the lessons of David Senra, this episode pushes you to ask better questions: Who are you surrounding yourself with, and who are you mentoring next? The answers may define your next breakthrough.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #714 for Wednesday, December 31st, 2025
- December 31st: No Interruptions Day
- 00:01:05 Our year(s) in review
- Shannon is monetizing community
- Making your community transformational over being transactional
- With social media, YOU get to pick and control your feeds and your experience
- A year of distractions…until Dave became a friendly pest
- You WILL become complacent. Identify that!
- Stay Hungry, Stay Foolish
- Embrace that fear of (being a) failure
- Founders Podcast with David Senra
- Let yourself have business experiments
- Who are you surrounding yourself with?
- Who are you mentoring?
- 00:19:49 Business Brain 714 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you explore how tools like Perplexity and Manus AI can move you from scattered ideas to clear execution. You see how AI helps you design a professional development plan, clarify complex concepts before implementation, and even generate a forward-looking review of your year. The focus is on using AI as a thinking partner—one that sharpens your strategy instead of replacing it.
You also learn how to combine AI tools to build practical systems, including custom dashboards that surface what actually matters in your business. By asking better prompts and layering tools intelligently, you turn AI into leverage, not noise. The result is smarter decisions, faster learning, and a more intentional path toward a truly Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #713 for Casual FridAI, December 26th, 2025
- December 24th: National Candy Cane Day
- 00:00:59 Ed-Perplexity helped me come up with a professional development training plan
- 00:02:50 Combining AI Lessons: Having ChatGPT explain the concepts before implementing the fix
- 00:05:29 Prompt-Give me my ChatGPT 2025 year is review
- 00:08:47 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at https://www.rula.com/businessbrain/ #rulapod
- 00:10:30 Use AI to create a custom dashboard for your business
- Manus AI
- 00:20:26 Business Brain 713 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you’re challenged to stop playing it safe and start leaning into the discomfort that drives real growth. You explore why staying comfortable is often the biggest limiter in business, and how intentional unease sharpens your thinking, strengthens decision-making, and exposes opportunities you’d otherwise miss. When you choose discomfort on your terms, you regain control instead of letting fear make the calls for you.
You’ll learn how to reframe uncomfortable moments as signals—not stop signs—and use them to build resilience, confidence, and momentum. By pushing just past what feels easy, you create space for better habits, smarter risks, and a truly Charmed Life in business. The message is clear: if you want progress, comfort can’t be the goal—growth has to be.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #712 for Wednesday, December 24th, 2025
- December 24th: National Eggnog Day
- 00:01:15 Make sure to scare yourself often
- Take the meeting
- Do the thing you haven’t done
- Step outside of your comfort zone
- Find the uncomfortable, and say “yes.”
- Eat Terry Black’s Barbecue (ok, this is a safe bet!)
- “Everything I want is on the other side of being uncomfortable”
- 00:13:27 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at https://www.rula.com/businessbrain/ #rulapod
- 00:15:12 JoeyGator-BB Review-Love this show!
- 00:16:51 Quick Tip: Email people while they’re away to mine their autoresponders
- Make and Keep a Reasons for Contact List
- 00:20:02 Strategies for working with new contacts
- 00:23:29 Business Brain 712 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you take a hard look at the hidden risks of using AI to troubleshoot problems in your business. You learn why trusting confident-sounding answers without context can lead you astray, and how Gell-Mann Amnesia shows up when AI sounds smart outside your expertise. The takeaway is clear: AI is powerful, but only when you stay skeptical, verify results, and remain the final decision-maker.
You also explore the fast-evolving world of AI-powered wearables and what Meta’s smart glasses signal for the future of work and creativity. From short-form recording to deeper app integration, you see how these tools could change how you capture ideas and stay present. The key is experimenting early without blind faith, so you can leverage emerging tech while staying grounded. Done right, this balance helps you build smarter systems and move closer to a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #711 for Casual FridAI, December 19th, 2025
- December 19th: Underdog Day
- 00:01:14 The 7-11 Coefficient
- 00:01:40 The Potential Pitfalls of AI Troubleshooting
- Gell-mann Amnesia
- 00:12:27 SPONSOR: The New Rules of Business: The 10 Kimmandments is available exclusively on MasterClass. And they always have great holiday-season offers, sometimes up to 50% off. Visit MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN to find out more!
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- 00:15:13 Meta AI Glasses
- Records in three-minute clips
- Meta AI app integrates with the glasses
- Google/Samsung Android XR Glasses
- Go to a Meta Store and check it out
- Billy Clayton
- 00:25:18 Business Brain 711 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you’re challenged to stop waiting for perfect conditions and start before you feel ready. You don’t need every system built or every detail nailed down to make an offer and move forward. You learn why perfection slows momentum, how action creates clarity, and why progress beats polish every time. This mindset shift helps you build confidence, traction, and revenue faster—without getting stuck preparing forever instead of doing.
You also explore demand avoidance and the subtle danger of the comfort zone. When things feel easy or familiar, it might actually be a warning sign that you’re not stretching far enough. You’re reminded that simple tools and clear tracking can keep you honest, focused, and growing. By leaning into a little discomfort and embracing structure, you give yourself the best chance at building a business—and a Charmed Life—on your terms.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #710 for Wednesday, December 17th, 2025
- December 17th: National Maple Syrup Day
- 00:02:05 Start Before You’re Ready
- I don’t have an email list… but here’s an offer and I’ll eventually send you email.
- Perfect is the enemy of good
- Kit.com
- beehiiv
- Constant Contact
- Klaviyo
- Mailchimp
- 00:06:44 Beware the comfort zone
- 00:07:39 Spreadsheets are your friend
- Google Sheets
- Synology Office
- LibreOffice
- 00:12:06 SPONSOR: The New Rules of Business: The 10 Kimmandments is available exclusively on MasterClass. And they always have great holiday-season offers, sometimes up to 50% off. Visit MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN to find out more!
- 00:13:37 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:14:53 Demand Avoidance
- Tips to help:
- Reframe demands as choices — “I could do this” works better than “I should do this.”
- Lower the activation energy — Define the task as 2 minutes or one tiny step.
- Externalize structure without authority — Timers, body doubling, or parallel work beat accountability pressure.
- Use novelty or constraint — Change location, tools, order, or rules.
- Tips to help:
- 00:22:23 Business Brain 710 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you dive into the rising tension between innovation, trust, and responsibility in the world of AI. As Shannon and Dave unpack National Salesperson Day, they pivot into the challenge of working with tools that hold immense power but zero accountability. The conversation heats up as they explore the recent acquisition of Limitless and what it signals for the future of AI assistants that promise productivity without sacrificing your Charmed Life.
You also hear why trusting your AI is becoming just as important as the tasks it performs. Apple enters the discussion as a fascinating paradox—highly trusted for privacy yet struggling to compete because that same privacy limits their AI’s capabilities. By the time the outtro rolls in, you’re left thinking critically about which companies deserve your trust and how to balance convenience with control in your business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #709 for Casual FridAI, December 12th, 2025
- December 12th: National Salesperson Day
- 00:01:12 ChatGPT has no accountability
- 00:07:09 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:08:26 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:03 Limitless being Acquired
- 00:16:25 Trusting your AI?
- Apple is trustworthy…and their privacy keeps their AI from being competitive.
- 00:21:27 Business Brain 709 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you learn why belief has to show up before skill ever can. You’re pushed to take action immediately—not by buying gear, courses, or tools, but by selling what you already have to get real-world wins fast. As you move, you build confidence, momentum, and the all-important belief that fuels every entrepreneurial step of your Charmed Life. Listener reviews highlight how authentic, actionable, and inspiring this mindset is, especially when paired with smart discussions about AI and real business challenges.
You also dive into the big question: How long should you give a business idea before you pivot or pull the plug? The hosts break down a practical two-year model—one year to learn, one year to execute—and frame it all as an experiment rather than a lifelong commitment. This approach frees you to test ideas boldly, adapt quickly, and make decisions with clarity instead of emoti
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #708 for Wednesday, December 10th, 2025
- 00:01:00 December 10th: National Lager Day
- Wolf by Vanderpump in Lake Tahoe
- Trumer Pilsner
- 00:02:32 Belief Before Ability
- Take action right away
- For example: in the reselling business, don’t buy anything first. Sell stuff you already have. That way you go through the motions…take some easy wins, and learn the process. And learn to believe!
- 00:12:03 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:13:18 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:14:57 Iavhill-BB Review-Actionable, Authentic, and Inspiring!
- 00:16:01 WPooka-BB Review-Love the AI Section
- 00:16:34 Skylar-Another read of “Don’t Pitch the Bitch”
- 00:18:44 How long should I give my business a chance?
- How long to spend on a proof of concept before you pivot (or kill it).
- 2 Years: One to learn, the second to execute
- Call it an experiment!
- 00:20:55 Everything we say on the show is something we’re telling ourselves
- 00:22:15 Business Brain 708 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you’re reminded that the work itself is the reward—and that avoiding the arrival fallacy is key to building a Charmed Life. Shannon and Dave push you to reframe your mindset from have to to get to, reinforcing that shared effort fuels momentum. You’ll see how celebrating your team—especially on Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day—creates a culture where contribution feels meaningful and progress stays sustainable.
Then you dive into the art of employing confident helpfulness. You’re coached to stop bending over backward until clients walk all over you and to use clarity as your strongest service tool. Sometimes the most helpful thing you can do is tell someone that what they want isn’t the process. You’ll learn to choose a blunt-and-polite mindset—the one that says they’re lucky to do business with you—so you protect your boundaries, elevate your value, and lead with intention.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #706 for Thursday, December 4th, 2025
- December 4th: Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day
- 00:01:58 The work is the reward
- The arrival fallacy
- We GET to do this together!
- 00:11:21 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:12:45 SPONSOR: Rula patients typically pay $15 per session when using insurance. Connect with quality therapists and mental health experts who specialize in you at https://www.rula.com/businessbrain/ #rulapod
- 00:14:39 Employing Confident Helpfulness
- Be aware when you bend over backwards so far that you’re laying down and the client is walking all over you
- When trying to help the client through the process, sometimes the best thing to do is to tell them “this is not the process”
- Two mindsets: direct and polite… vs blunt and polite
- Blunt = they’re lucky to do business with us
- Direct = we’re lucky to do business with them
- Go with Blunt!
- 00:24:31 Business Brain 706 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, you dive into a Casual FridAI conversation where Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore everything from Google’s playful foray into “antigravity” ideas to the rise of vibe-based coding and whether it helps or hurts creativity. You’re pulled into their energetic breakdown of how intuition and experimentation shape modern work, especially in an era when AI tools push boundaries faster than ever. As the hosts riff on innovation, they challenge you to rethink how you incorporate emerging tech into your entrepreneurial workflow to build your own Charmed Life.
You also get a sharp discussion on contextual AI and why the nAIsaysers may be missing the bigger picture. In this episode of Business Brain, the hosts reveal how understanding context gives you a competitive edge and why resistance to AI often stems from misconceptions, not reality. By the end, you walk away with insights that equip you to navigate new tech, sharpen your strategic thinking, and stay adaptable as the landscape evolves.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #705 for Casual FridAI, November 28th, 2025
- November 28th: National Day of Listening
- 00:01:30 Google Antigravity
- 00:07:55 Vibe Coding…is it bad?
- 00:11:25 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:26 SPONSOR: SPONSOR: MasterClass. Masterclass always has great holiday-season offers, sometimes up to 50% off. Visit MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN to find out more!
- 00:15:31 Contextual AI vs. the nAIsaysers
- 00:26:00 Business Brain 705 Outtro
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You’re juggling data, marketing, and momentum, and this episode shows you how to turn all three into leverage. You learn why permissionless UTMs let you track audience behavior without waiting for approval, giving you a sharper view of what actually moves the needle. Then you’re pushed to rethink how you approach follow-ups and persistence — not as nagging, but as the habit-forming consistency that makes people naturally want to work with you. This is where you start building your own Charmed Life.
We also explore how relationship shifts inside a company — especially when your point of contact changes — can either stall progress or open a fresh lane of opportunity. Instead of letting transitions derail you, you discover how to re-establish trust, reset expectations, and keep deals alive. It’s a tactical episode that blends marketing precision with human strategy to keep your entrepreneurial engine running smoothly.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #704 for Wednesday, November 26th, 2025
- November 26th: National Cake Day
- 00:01:34 What do you use Business Brain
- 00:02:05 Permissionless UTMs
- https://businessbrain.show/review?utm_source=bb704&utm_campaign=bb704
- 00:11:04 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:02 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Masterclass always has great holiday-season offers, sometimes up to 50% off. Visit MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN to find out more!
- 00:15:10 The persistent pest just turns people into habitually working with you
- 00:19:11 When the point of contact changes
- 00:23:27 Business Brain 703 Outtro
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On this episode of Business Brain, you explore how to use AI as a tool for revealing blind spots you didn’t even know you had. With prompts designed to surface hidden assumptions and second-order effects, you learn how to turn AI into a sharper strategic partner. The hosts walk you through asking AI to SWOT your life, push for specific examples, and then combine strengths and weaknesses so you can take real corrective action instead of just collecting insights.
This episode also shows you how to redirect AI when answers drift and how to make it ask you smarter questions—especially when building plans or creative projects. The big takeaway: frequent use and strategic prompting erase resistance and unlock the clarity that fuels your Charmed Life. When you know how to steer the conversation, AI becomes a force multiplier for both your business and your thinking.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #703 for Casual FridAI, November 21st, 2025
- November 21st: National Gingerbread Cookie Day
- 00:01:41 AI Prompt to find the blind spots
- AI Prompt: What are the blind spots, hidden assumptions, or second-order effects that I might be missing?
- 00:06:47 AI Prompt: Based upon everything you know about me I want you to SWOT my life.
- Follow-up Prompt: Give me three specific examples of each of the 4 categories
- Follow-up-follow-up: Take those 12 things and apply the six positives about me to the six negatives so that we can address these issues.
- 00:09:46 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
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- 00:13:20 Robert-Prompting AI to be more effective for you
- AI Prompt: I’m a Graphic Designer, I need to write a business plan. Ask me 5 questions about me to make your response more effective:
- 00:15:06 If you get an answer in the wrong direction, edit your prompt and that effectively erases the answer.
- 00:15:50 Just use it! Resistance is futile.
- DaVinci Resolve
- 00:21:54 Business Brain 703 Outtro
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Adding value in business doesn’t always mean solving every problem — sometimes simply naming the issue helps people unlock their own path forward. That mindset protects you from the Consultant Trap, where you feel obligated to deliver solutions instead of insight. Like cognitive behavioral therapy, your real power often comes from reframing the situation, not fixing it. Whether you’re chatting with clients, partners, or even hotel staff when you’re celebrating something special, you’re shaping outcomes through clarity and communication.
We also explore how lifestyle businesses can slip into complacency when comfort replaces intention. You’re pushed to rethink how you manage your money, tapping concepts from Die With Zero and Rich Dad, Poor Dad to shift your focus from hoarding assets to living on profits and maximizing cash flow. You’re encouraged to avoid parking money in a checking account and instead build a structure that supports financial momentum — all so you can consistently design your own Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #702 for Wednesday, November 19th, 2025
- November 19th: Women’s Entrepreneurship Day
- 00:01:22 Tell the hotel front desk that you’re celebrating your anniversary
- 00:02:57 You don’t always have to have a solution to a problem to add value
- The Consultant Trap on Business Brain
- Just identifying the problem or situation can be more than enough to help someone seek a solution
- Isn’t this what cognitive behavioral therapy is?
- 00:09:29 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
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- 00:13:02 The lifestyle business mindset and laziness
- Die With Zero
- 00:17:30 Live On Your Profits, Not Your Assets
- Rich Dad, Poor Dad
- Cash flow is king!
- Don’t keep money in your checking account
- 00:22:27 Business Brain 702 Outtro
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You’re living in the future now—where ChatGPT rides shotgun and your car’s dashboard becomes your co-pilot. This week, you’ll explore how AI and CarPlay are merging to make driving smarter and conversations with tech more natural. Discover how Shannon and Dave use GPT behind the wheel and why they wouldn’t buy a car without CarPlay anymore. You’ll see how these tools blend productivity and creativity into the rhythm of daily life.
Then, shift gears into understanding the context window—the secret to keeping your AI assistant on track. Learn how to get better, more useful answers by managing context, and why choosing your LLM ecosystem wisely matters. It’s about steering your own digital experience toward your version of a Charmed Life—one where human insight and AI intuition drive side by side.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #701 for Casual FridAI, November 14th, 2025
- 00:01:06 November 14th: National Pickle Day
- 00:02:20 ChatGPT widget in CarPlay
- 00:05:51 Having conversations with ChatGPT
- 00:08:25 We wouldn’t buy cars without CarPlay
- 00:09:18 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll
- 00:10:51 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:32 Tips for Overcoming ChatGPT’s Context Window
- 00:15:00 The walled garden of your chosen LLM
- AI for customer support
- 00:19:09 Business Brain 701 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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You know that consistency is the secret sauce of every successful venture. This episode shows you how showing up—again and again—builds your credibility, sharpens your edge, and strengthens your moat against competitors. With the Business Brain hosts breaking down “bullheaded persistence” and the beauty of being “too dumb to quit,” you’ll see why consistency is more than habit—it’s identity.
You’ll also learn why accountability partners can turbocharge your follow-through and how competing with yourself keeps your growth curve alive. Shannon and Dave share how staying consistent has powered them to 700 episodes and a truly Charmed Life—one built on discipline, connection, and the drive to keep creating, no matter what.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #700 for Wednesday, November 12th, 2025
- November 12th: Chicken Soup for the Soul Day
- 00:01:56 The Value of Consistency
- Consistency is Magic
- Bullheaded Persistence
- “Too dumb to quit!”
- Consistency is a moat
- A reputation of consistency adds to your credibility stack
- 00:06:18 It’s easier to be consistent with an accountability partner
- 00:10:52 SPONSOR: Intuit QuickBooks Payroll – Take control with QuickBooks Payroll today at QuickBooks.com/payroll 00:12:24 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:14:07 Does the “Don’t Pitch The Bitch” mentality really serve your home-improvement business?
- 00:21:10 “We compete with ourselves”
- 00:22:11 Business Brain 700 Outtro
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You’ll learn how to supercharge your entrepreneurial workflow with AI as Shannon and Dave dive into the latest ChatGPT tricks, from snapping store photos to capturing screenshots and shaping your business philosophy with better prompts. You’ll discover how adding context helps AI think more like a partner and less like a tool—helping you make sharper, faster decisions. This is all about working smarter so you can live your Charmed Life.
They also explore the world of wearable AI, including the Limitless Pendant and its seamless sync with Apple Reminders. With real talk about privacy, productivity, and where tech is headed next, this episode gives you a front-row seat to the future of entrepreneurship—powered by AI and grounded in business savvy.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #699 for Casual FridAI, November 7th, 2025
- 00:01:30 November 7th: Love Your Lawyer Day
- 00:02:26 ChatGPT: Using the Camera in the store
- 00:06:08 Taking screenshots from within ChatGPT
- 00:06:54 Using ChatGPT To Hone your Business Philosophy
- The more context you give it, the better they are at predicting and helping you solve problems
- Sponsors
- 00:10:42 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
- 00:12:22 SPONSOR: PAKA. Softer than Cashmere and warmer than wool. Visit Go.PAKAapparel.com/BRAIN to grab your PAKA hoodie and free pair of alpaca crew socks.
- 00:14:07 Todd-Privacy concerns with wearable AI Pendants?
- 00:17:24 Limitless syncs with Apple Reminders
- 00:19:32 NEO Home Robot
- 00:22:20 Business Brain 699 Outtro
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As you navigate the waves of life and business, this episode reminds you that age isn’t a limitation—it’s momentum. Shannon and Dave dive into how your brain evolves from chasing facts to harnessing wisdom, helping you spot patterns and ride bigger waves of opportunity. You’ll learn to see mistakes as tuition and fear as a tool, not an obstacle. Whether you’re 25 or 65, you can turn experience into advantage and live your Charmed Life.
They break down how to flip fear-based thinking into forward motion, using uncertainty as fuel for smarter, faster decisions. If you’ve ever worried about slowing down or missing your next big break, this episode shows how every wave—no matter when it comes—can carry you further than you imagined.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #698 for Wednesday, November 5th, 2025
- 00:01:33 November 5th: Bonfire Night
- 00:02:06 Age is just another wave to ride
- Charlie Munger: Find a wave and ride it!
- Brains change as we age: from memorization to big-picture wisdom
- Mistakes are tuition
- Demi Moore’s The Substance
- 00:13:19 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
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- 00:16:43 Revisiting Fear-Based Decisions
- Having an irrational fear of not making any money is a superpower
- What’s the most important thing to do right now to increase my revenue?
- Trading Places is a Christmas Movie
- 00:23:47 Business Brain 698 Outtro
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You’re already using AI every day—but are you actually using it smartly? In this week’s Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore the next level of practical AI for entrepreneurs, from using your browser to scrape data instantly to letting AI listen, watch, and analyze what’s happening in your business. You’ll learn how to troubleshoot, research, and brainstorm faster just by speaking to your computer, snapping a video, or using your browser as your AI command center.
You’ll also hear about the tools that make it all click—Comet, Atlas, and Limitless—and how connecting them with ChatGPT can help you organize, motivate, and stay consistent with your goals. It’s a mix of humor, experimentation, and smart shortcuts that show you how to work less, create more, and live your version of a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #697 for Casual FridAI, October 31, 2025
- October 31st: National Knock Knock Joke Day
- 00:00:01 AI Tip: Use your computer’s microphone to just dictate to AI. Not speech mode, just instead of typing.
- 00:02:10 More on using ChatGPT with multiple modes: audio, video, pictures
- Take video of your washing machine to troubleshoot.
- Is “prompt engineering” just text?
- 00:07:34 AI Tip: Using AI in your browser
- Comet Browser
- Atlas Browser
- Instant Data Scraper for Chrome
- 00:11:25 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
- 00:13:11 AI Tip: Use ChatGPT to find contacts at companies
- Seamless.ai
- 00:15:19 Limitless Pendant Review Update
- Linking Limitless with ChatGPT
- Using Limitless to create your to-did list (for motivation!)
- 00:21:13 Business Brain 697 Outtro
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You already know that building a business is a marathon, not a sprint—but how do you keep running when the finish line keeps moving? In this week’s Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton dive into the concept of Motivational Endurance, sharing ways to recharge your entrepreneurial drive and find joy in the daily grind. From creating a “To Did” list that celebrates small wins to finding multiple sources of motivation, you’ll learn how to build habits that fuel long-term success and keep your energy high even when your excitement dips.
You’ll also discover why mentoring others (even accidentally) might be the secret to staying inspired and how defining your Noble Cause keeps you aligned through setbacks. When you stack truth with creativity and discipline with purpose, business stops feeling like a struggle—and starts looking like your version of a Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #696 for Wednesday, October 29, 2025
- 00:01:01 October 29th: National Cat Day
- 00:02:42 Robert-A Side Hustle: Until the Junk Runs Dry!
- Start your side hustle today
- Boredom is the enemy
- Ask your employees: What are your interests? What do you want to do beyond this?
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:08:40 RGoodwin55-BB Review – Great Show
- 00:09:16 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
- 00:11:42 Motivational Endurance from Dr. Julie Gurner
- 00:16:16 Find multiple things that motivates you
- Mentoring younger people, even accidentally
- Always tell the truth, but make it fantastic
- The “To Did” list concept, celebrating your wins
- What’s your Noble Cause?
- Review Business Brain
- 00:20:09 Business Brain 696 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick off a lighthearted Casual FridAI conversation that revolves around practical AI tips and how they’re integrating AI tools into everyday problem solving. Dave shares a recent experience using the ChatGPT mobile app to diagnose a foot issue by uploading and annotating photos directly in the app, highlighting how powerful visual AI has become for troubleshooting real-world tasks. Shannon adds examples of how he uses AI to identify dashboard warning lights, analyze auction pallet photos, and even figure out how to put a rental SUV into drive. This leads into a discussion on how AI is evolving rapidly and is now becoming a daily assistant rather than a novelty.
The conversation shifts into AI prompting strategies, including Dave’s method of pasting his final edited drafts back into ChatGPT so it continues learning his writing voice. Shannon introduces a new concept he calls the “Devil’s Advocate Prompt” to counteract AI’s built-in positivity bias. Since most AI tools tend to support user ideas without challenging them, this prompt forces AI to critique weaknesses, risks, and flawed assumptions so entrepreneurs can battle-test ideas before launching. They end by talking about building an evolving prompt library for Business Brain listeners and encourage listeners to share their own AI prompt wins.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #695 for Casual FridAI, October 24, 2025
- October 24th: World Tripe Day
- 00:01:46 Annotate images in the ChatGPT app
- 00:05:11 Upload a photo to help you fix something that’s broken
- SIXT Car Rental Agency
- 00:08:15 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
- 00:09:47 SPONSOR: PAKA. Softer than Cashmere and warmer than wool. Visit Go.PAKAapparel.com/BRAIN to grab your PAKA hoodie and free pair of alpaca crew socks.
- 00:11:42 FridAI Prompt: “Here’s the final version I edited so you have it for the next time we work on something together”
- 00:13:34 FridayAI Devil’s Advocate Prompts:
- The general Devil’s Advocate Prompt: “Act as a ruthless devil’s advocate. Your job is to find weaknesses, risks, and flawed assumptions in the following idea. No praise, no compliments—only critique and what could go wrong. Provide clear examples and evidence where possible. Here’s the idea: [INSERT IDEA].”
- Execution Reality Check Prompt: “Assume this plan sounds good in theory but fails in practice. Explain why execution would break down—team issues, complexity, hidden costs, dependencies, time delays. Plan: [INSERT].”
- 00:17:24 Business Brain 695 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore the difference between 2x and 10x growth mindsets. Shannon shares a quote from a recent event — “focus on 10x, not 2x” — and breaks down how the 2x approach is about working harder and incrementally improving, while 10x thinking requires transformative change, ruthless prioritization, and bold decision-making. They discuss how 10x growth forces entrepreneurs to abandon outdated systems and focus only on what delivers real results, even if that means disrupting what’s already working. Shannon relates this to his recent Instagram growth experiment and how it’s forcing him out of his comfort zone.
The conversation then shifts to the concept of “body doubling,” a technique Dave discovered during a recent trip where he and his wife worked productively side by side in a hotel room. This unintentional co-working setup led to high focus and output, prompting Dave to dig deeper into the psychological science behind it. They explore how having someone else nearby — even if not directly interacting — creates a low-level accountability and modeled behavior that can improve productivity. They wrap up with a reminder to stay self-aware, keep pursuing growth, and stay focused on high-leverage actions — like selling unused assets or building scalable systems — that generate real revenue.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #694 for Wednesday, October 22, 2025
- October 22nd: International CAPS LOCK Day
- Wind chimes for podcasting calmness
- 00:02:07 Focus on 10x-ing, not 2x-ing
- Is Grant Cardone just blowing hot air, or does he have something valuable to say?
- 2x means:
- Work harder
- Add helpers
- Same offer
- Fear of losing what you have
- Your identity remains the same
- 10x means:
- Same or fewer hours
- Build scalable systems, by breaking things and streamlining what you do
- New offer
- Willingness to destroy what isn’t essential
- Your identity evolves
- Don’t be afraid to ask: how are you doing 10x what I’m doing?
- 00:10:27 On Shannon’s Quartet:
- Think Bigger
- 10x instead of 2x
- 00:11:14 SPONSOR: Surfshark. Go to https://surfshark.com/businessbrain or use code businessbrain at checkout to get 4 extra months of Surfshark VPN!
- 00:12:46 SPONSOR: PAKA. Softer than Cashmere and warmer than wool. Visit Go.PAKAapparel.com/BRAIN to grab your PAKA hoodie and free pair of alpaca crew socks.
- 00:14:40 Body Doubling for ADHD productivity – Vincent from Strawberry.me
- Time constraints make a big difference, too
- “What should I be working on that’s going to generate the most revenue today?”
- Bringatrailer.com – car auction site
- 00:24:42 Business Brain 694 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon open Casual Friday with a Shopify nod, then spotlight listener David’s “vibe-coded” Replit app for high-school sports. His web iPad tool tracks scoring, fouls, streaks, and biggest leads, exports structured summaries to an AI project, and let him publish recaps before leaving the gym. The hosts urge productizing it as a simple SaaS for local media and parents, noting how low-code iteration unlocks niche, high-value workflows.
Listener Ian contributes a prompt to reduce ambiguity in text communications—analyze likely interpretations, confirm intent, then offer two clearer rewrites—which sparks a broader discussion about using AI to keep customer-service tone friendly over SMS. Shannon then explains how he used ChatGPT for tax prep: export a Gmail “receipts” label via Google Takeout, auto-extract 2024 transactions, categorize them, cross-check with credit-card summaries (dedupe, find misses), and organize 1099s/K-1s for his accountant—plus a “what am I wasting money on?” audit to cut subscriptions. They close by inviting listeners to send their own AI workflows to feedback@businessbrain.show.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #693 for Casual FridAI, October 17, 2025
- October 17th: National Clean Your Virtual Desktop Day
- 00:01:16 David-Replit vibe-coded me an app I wanted!
- 00:08:00 Ian-FridAI-Here’s a prompt to help reduce communication ambiguity
- PROMPT: Analyze my text for possible interpretations. Rank them by likelihood based on how most readers would understand the wording. Ask me to confirm which meaning I intend. Then, provide two alternative rewrites that eliminate ambiguity while preserving my tone: [paste text here]
- 00:10:00 Beware of customer service handling via text. You have to go over the top to be friendly.
- 00:13:40 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:15:17 Shannon: ChatGPT Did My Taxes
- Google Takeout
- Is this a prison decision or a penalty decision
- Upload your credit card statement to ChatGPT and ask it, “what am I wasting my money on? Be harsh. Tough love.”
- 00:23:55 Business Brain 693 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon kick off episode 692 with a Shopify sponsor read and dive into listener-submitted interview questions. Jeff’s favorite prompt—“How many gas stations are in the U.S.?”—is used to evaluate problem-solving under pressure, not factual recall. Shannon riffs on the persuasive power of specific numbers and “making the truth fantastic,” while Dave notes real estimates vary widely. Todd’s “What would you put on a bumper sticker?” uncovers candidates’ core beliefs; the hosts swap their own slogans and talk about how pithy lines often emerge over the years, not on demand.
Listener Andrew asks whether his fabrication LLC should bill his rental-property LLC. The hosts recommend billing (or at least tracking) to expose true margins, enable clean property-level P&Ls, support valuations, and strengthen leverage with banks or vendors—while reminding Andrew to confirm structure and tax treatment with a CPA and attorney. They wrap by inviting more questions at feedback@businessbrain.show and signing off with their “charmed life” mantra.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #692 for Wednesday, October 15, 2025
- October 15th: National Take Your Parents to Lunch Day
- 00:01:34 Jeff-More favorite interview questions
- Make the truth fantastic!
- 00:07:52 Todd-Interview question…the Bumpersticker!
- 00:11:52 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:30 Andrew-Should I bill myself for work I do?
- 00:22:21 Business Brain 692 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon kick off episode 691 on National Handbag Day, segueing from Shannon’s experiment that grew into selling 7,000 handbags and nearly $4M in revenue. He explains how handbags taught him the power of emotional selling and confidence-driven purchases. The conversation pivots to ChatGPT “tasks” (automations) that perform timely research and send results—born from Dave’s football-pick workflow—and expands to examples like weekly industry briefings, sponsor invoicing reminders, and Apple Shortcuts/Zapier/IFTTT integrations to reduce friction and beat procrastination by starting work for you.
They broaden the lens to AI’s impact on creative industries: gatekeepers vs. discovery, parallels to self-publishing in books and indie music, and the rise of AI actors. Their stance: embrace the new tools, accept pros and cons, and focus on execution and curation. A Masterclass sponsor read reinforces continuous learning. They close by inviting listener feedback and reviews (with a MacBook giveaway) and sign off for the weekend.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #691 for Casual FridAI, October 10, 2025
- 00:01:00 October 10th: National Handbag Day
- 00:01:52 ChatGPT Tasks to stay on top of your projects
- IFTTT
- Zapier
- Apple Shortcuts
- Morning Briefings – then create the LinkedIn post to present me as a thoughtleader in the industry
- Reminders for focus
- And more…
- 00:09:04 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
- 00:10:54 More automations
- 00:13:32 AI and the dying, legacy movie industry
- Sora Video Creator
- Self-publishing with Vellum
- 00:15:32 The changes in the music industry…What’s next?
- Solving the music discovery engine
- 00:21:04 Business Brain 691 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon open episode 690 on National Fluffernutter Day with playful banter before diving into the core theme: “execution is the moat, not information.” They argue that oversharing isn’t risky because ideas are plentiful; what matters is doing the work. Dave recalls advice from a VC contact that asking for NDAs is a rookie move—investors back people who will execute, not just ideas. Sharing publicly sharpens thinking, invites useful critique, and reinforces learning, while daily incremental action is what separates success from stagnation. They weave in a Masterclass sponsor segment as an example of learning that fuels better execution.
They then highlight customer service as a universal responsibility. Dave shares two contrasting experiences in the same week: the USPS quickly resolved a stuck tracking issue for an eBay iPhone shipment by updating the delivery scan, leading to released funds; a UPS driver showed uncommon courtesy in traffic, modeling brand-aware behavior. The takeaway: every business—and every employee—is in customer service because any touchpoint shapes the brand. They invite listeners to share how they train teams to represent the company well and sign off, encouraging everyone to keep living that “charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #690 for Wednesday, October 8, 2025
- 00:00:56 October 8th: National Fluffernutter Day
- 00:02:13 Aren’t you worried about over-sharing your secrets?
- “Execution is the moat, not information.”
- 00:09:49 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
- 00:12:00 USPS delivers excellent customer service!
- 00:15:50 …and so does UPS
- Every employee is in the customer service department
- 00:19:50 Business Brain 690 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon kick off Casual FridAI by sharing practical body language tactics for Zoom and sales calls: stand to boost energy, avoid crossed arms, gesture intentionally (without smacking the mic), and hide self-view to reduce fatigue. They invite listener tips and note small cues—posture, face-touching, taking up space—shape how others read you.
They then demo Limitless AI (formerly Rewind): a pendant + Mac/phone apps that capture conversations, generate searchable “Life Logs,” set voice reminders, and answer questions like “what commitments did I make today?” Use cases span entrepreneurs, ADHD support, journalism, medical visits, and elder care. They outline pricing (bundle ~$399 for pendant + 1 year unlimited; pendant alone ~$199 with plans; free 20 hrs/month; Pro ~100 hrs; Unlimited billed yearly/monthly), discuss etiquette and privacy (always ask before recording), and Dave signs up to test the free Mac app. They wrap with calls for feedback and reviews.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #689 for Casual FridAI, October 3, 2025
- 00:00:55 October 3rd: National Body Language Day
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:05:42 Reviewing the Limitless AI Pendant
- From the Rewind folks
- Getting us closer to Jane from Ender’s Game
- 00:17:05 Business Brain 689 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon kick off Business Brain ep. 688 on World Sake Day by riffing on a San Diego beach rental and the power of being a customer of your competitors—and your own business. They share lessons from buying and selling: Dave used paid podcast ads to learn the market and build relationships, and both discuss selling cars and iPhones with smart baselines (Carvana, Gazelle) to stay in control. They swap tactics for negotiating with dealers, anchoring offers, stacking incentives, and using time constraints to avoid the showroom grind.
The conversation pivots to deal-making on both the buy and sell side: start by selling unused items at home, set floors for pricing, and use content to win attention. Examples include a listener who turned $1 in book pallets into $5,000 and another who flips free couches with time-lapse cleaning videos that “stop the scroll.” They wrap with a time-management tip—book 15–20 minute discovery calls you can extend—and a call for reviews.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #688 for Wednesday, October 1, 2025
- October 1st: World Sake Day
- 00:00:48 Being a customer for your competitors’ businesses
- Nobody wants to do shower limbo
- 00:04:44 Getting people’s attention by paying them money
- 00:06:30 Safety Nets when Making Deals and Selling Your Own Stuff
- Cars, Phones, and anything else you sell
- Carvana, KBB, Carmax, Bring a Trailer, Driveway.com
- eBay, Gazelle
- 00:14:07 Stay in control of your time
- 00:18:29 Back to safety nets when selling
- Use time-lapse videos to show you cleaning up the item you’re selling
- 00:24:00 Business Brain 688 Outtro
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Episode 687 opens with sponsors Paka Apparel and Shopify, then dives into a practical compare-and-contrast of LLMs. Dave sticks with ChatGPT for history and workflow but says Claude is hands-down best for assisted coding due to reliability, longer context, and faster iteration. Perplexity earns points for research (and a 12-month Pro via PayPal promo); its Comet browser is mentioned. Shannon uses Grok on X to verify posts and add context. They read listener reviews, remind folks about the MacBook giveaway, and plug businessbrain.show/review.
The pair share real-world AI wins: Shannon fixes a Polaris Ranger parking brake and re-cables a Comcast router by uploading photos and asking specific questions; Dave troubleshoots a Docker container update mid-session by feeding screenshots and URLs to ChatGPT. They caution listeners to specify versions and verify steps because UI and docs change. The show closes by inviting AI questions to feedback@businessbrain.show and nudging listeners to join the mailing list for links, including the Perplexity Pro offer, while reinforcing the “live your charmed life” theme.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #687 for Casual FridAI, September 26th, 2025
- September 26th: Alpaca Day
- 00:01:10 Comparing the LLMs
- Get Perplexity Pro free for 1 year (great for research)
- ChatGPT (especially projects!)
- Claude (absolutely the best for coding!)
- Grok AI (great for sussing out the truth in social media)
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Sponsors
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- BB Reviews
- 00:11:59 Mickey Papillon-BB Review-Great show for entrepreneurs and those with the drive to do better
- 00:12:45 BP-60501-Smart strategies to become a “Charmer”
- 00:13:57 RHazelrigg-5 Stars
- 00:15:32 Using screenshots and photos with AI
- 00:22:11 Business Brain 687 Outtro
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Episode 686 opens with sponsors Shopify and Paka Apparel, plus a quick birthday nod to Dave. Dave recaps a concert trip to Hampton, VA: a cool, round, indoor Hampton Coliseum with great sound, but a struggling town he wouldn’t visit except for shows.
Shannon then details how consistent posting on X led to coaching requests, a $5/month subscriber DM that grew unwieldy, and ultimately the Kajabi-based “$5 Reseller Mastermind.” He built lead magnets and a weekly newsletter (5,500 subs), added paid upgrade programs (Costco, eBay, Poshmark, Facebook Marketplace), and replaced 1:1s—canceling 118 appointments—in favor of bi-weekly group calls with 60–70 attendees. Nearing 1,500 members ($7,500/mo baseline before upsells), he runs $100, 90-minute workshops and emphasizes his core mantra: simple but hard work—“buy with math, sell with emotion.” He shares how community wins and teaching have been deeply fulfilling and says this is just the beginning.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #686 for Wednesday, September 24th, 2025
- September 24th: National Punctuation Day
- 00:02:26 Hampton Coliseum is fun…Hampton, Virginia is the town that time is forgetting
- 00:03:49 Hey, Shannon, how’s it going?
- Started with posting on X, found a great community of business peers
- Shannon found his niche!
- Hey, Shannon…would you coach me?
- Lesson learned: do it for free at first, and…
- Collect Testimonials!
- Senja.io is the testimonial platform that Shannon used
- Then used Kit.com to collect emails from things he was giving away
- Started an X subscription for $5 per month
- Sponsors
- 00:10:51 SPONSOR: PAKA. Softer than Cashmere and warmer than wool. Visit Go.PAKAapparel.com/BRAIN to grab your PAKA hoodie and free pair of alpaca crew socks.
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- 00:14:00 But seriously, Shannon, how’s it going?
- Now that I’m taking their money, I need to give them something!
- Created a DM group for subscribers on X…
- Kajabi is a better mastermind: Shannonjean.com/mastermind
- But Shannon was stuck at Five Bucks Per Month!
- Don’t upSELL, just offer paid upgrades
- Canceled 118 appointments and now I do a free group call
- Added collaboration workshops
- 00:23:23 Posted 31,000 times on X in 18 months
- It’s not easy, but it’s simple
- 00:26:02 Business Brain 686 Outtro
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The post Creating a Community – Business Brain 686 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon open a playful Casual FridAI episode for Talk/Meow Like a Pirate Day, then pivot to an NFL pick’em story: Dave joins a family pool and has ChatGPT and Perplexity generate weekly picks, even pitting them against each other and noticing different “motivations” when prompts imply stakes (e.g., deleting a chat). That leads to a discussion about what AIs “value” (usefulness, accuracy, clarity) and how prompt design can shape urgency and quality of output.
They pose a provocative question: if AI replaced you tomorrow, what would it do first? Both admit the answer exposes weaknesses—delegation and un-automated workflows. Tips follow: adopt “content-first” social strategy (test freely, repost winners, then spend behind proven posts), and consider recording/screenshotting publishing workflows so an AI agent can learn and automate them. The takeaway: identify the first thing AI would do in your role—and do it today to reclaim time and focus.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #685 for Casual FridAI, September 19th, 2025
- September 19th: National Meow Like a Pirate Day
- 00:01:43 Making AI Want To Win
- Finding your AI’s motivation
- 00:09:58 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
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- 00:12:46 If AI Replaced You Tomorrow, What Would It Do First?
- It would look at what I do, and delegate it to the right people who already work for me
- 00:15:45 Content First… Find your evergreen posts and REPOST THEM
- 00:17:59 Making AI more agentic for yourself?
- 00:22:55 Business Brain 685 Outtro
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The post FridAI – Teaching AI to Win – Business Brain 685 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon open with a light riff on Monte Cristo sandwiches before diving into the theme of embracing change—seasonal shifts, life rhythms, and how entrepreneurs must adapt faster than most. Shannon shares how he normalizes change with employees, vendors, and even in his family’s vacation-rental business, warning against getting stuck in “the way we’ve always done it.” They use Apple as a case study of self-disruption (iPod to iPhone to Watch) and debate school phone restrictions, noting the recent resale spike in iPods as districts limit smartphones.
Dave then details a productivity reset: adopting two-hour time blocks dedicated to specific businesses and batching email into three 30-minute windows. The approach helps him avoid “working for whoever emailed last,” stay focused, and surface non-urgent but important work. Shannon, having reclaimed calendar space, plans to lean into time blocking as well. They close by inviting listener tips on time and attention management.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #684 for Wednesday, September 17th, 2025
- September 17th: National Monte Christo Day
- 00:01:53 The Power of Embracing Change
- Welcoming that end of summer productivity
- Teaching your employees how to embrace change
- Change…or Fail!
- 00:08:53 iPods increasing in value because of schools
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- 00:13:34 Compartmentalizing your calendar…Time Blocking
- Scheduling time for email (30 min). Time for each business (120min).
- 00:22:33 Business Brain 684 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon introduce a new Casual Friday segment called “The Mund-AI,” where they explore seemingly mundane ways they’re using AI tools like ChatGPT in everyday life. Dave shares how he used ChatGPT to make sense of repeated acquisition emails for his business, asking the AI to analyze patterns and even generate template responses. Shannon highlights using ChatGPT as a complete replacement for search engines, especially for things like troubleshooting YouTube TV limitations or checking fishing regulations—tasks that would have been tedious with traditional search tools. Dave even explains a clever workaround using Tailscale to make streaming services work in multiple locations by routing traffic through a home network exit node.
The hosts emphasize how AI is reshaping simple, daily problem-solving. They share examples like using ChatGPT to identify obscure lighting components or generate podcast interview questions. The theme is clear: what feels mundane to one person might be a lightbulb moment for another—so sharing these use cases is valuable. They encourage listeners to send in their own examples for future episodes.
Toward the end, Shannon introduces a concept inversion: when starting something new, it’s better to avoid automation at first. He shares a story about stagnant Instagram growth despite hiring an agency, only to gain traction after manually asking followers via his newsletter. They discuss how deep involvement early on leads to better understanding, making future automation more effective. The episode closes with a promotion for free Perplexity Pro subscriptions and their usual mix of business tips and charm.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #683 for Casual FridAI, September 12th, 2025
- September 12th: National Day of Encouragement
- 00:01:31 the mundAIne
- Explain patterned/targeted spam emails
- 00:04:54 Tech support for YouTube TV
- Get TailScale and setup an Exit Node
- 00:07:56 Back to the mundAIne
- Using ChatGPT as your search engine
- Sending ChatGPT a picture of something to explain it
- 00:11:12 SPONSOR: Mint Mobile – This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get this new customer offer and your 3-month Unlimited wireless plan for just $15 per month at MintMobile.com/BusinessBrain today.
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- 00:14:20 Less Automation
- Business is about people
- 00:21:00 Get Perplexity Pro free for 1 year
- 00:22:22 Business Brain 683 Outtro
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The post FridAI – Mundane AI and Less Automation – Business Brain 683 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon kick off episode 682 by reframing a core entrepreneurial question: not “define success,” but “what are you building toward?” They discuss lifestyle businesses without stigma, urging founders to articulate what they truly want—more time, flexibility, specific experiences—and to design daily systems that move them toward that vision. Shannon shares his “campfire” story concept as a motivating north star and notes that goals can evolve; you may already have much of what you’re after.
In the second half, Shannon tells the “pot of gold” story from an early warehouse lease, learning to take “chests of gold” off the table along the way. They stress balancing reinvestment with risk reduction, maintaining a reasonable war chest without starving life or business, and seeking outside counsel to counter radical optimism. Dave recalls Howard Stern’s heuristic of not investing personal money if others won’t, as a gut-check on viability. They close by inviting listener feedback on how others think about building, enjoying the journey now, and funding choices.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #682 for Wednesday, September 10th, 2025
- September 10th: National TV Dinner Day
- 00:01:29 Building your keychain to the kingdom
- Aron North from Mint Mobile on Business Brain
- 00:02:18 What are you building towards?
- Lifestyle businesses are OK by us!
- What do you want? (out of the business you have/are-creating)
- …you might already have it.
- 00:06:56 What do you want to do when you retire have more free time?
- You deserve the life you want
- 00:08:24 What if I don’t create what I wanted?
- It’s ok! Systems are better than goals.
- And everything can evolve, including your answers to those questions
- 00:09:58 SPONSOR: Mint Mobile – This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get this new customer offer and your 3-month Unlimited wireless plan for just $15 per month at MintMobile.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:11:40 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:03 The Pot-of–Gold Myth
- Did you get your pot of gold at the end?
- There is no pot of gold…but sometimes you can take chests of gold off at times during your career
- Don’t wait to take money off the table
- Your business’s warchest doesn’t need to be as big as you might think
- 00:21:11 The Howard Stern lesson: I never invest my own money in my business
- 00:21:57 Business Brain 682 Outtro
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The post What do you want + The Pot of Gold Myth – Business Brain 682 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon kick off Casual Friday by troubleshooting a recent recording delay that turned out to be an AI video agent (Opus Clip beta) hammering CPU, noting browser quirks and local processing. They pivot into a broader conversation about the risks of oversharing personal details with AI, the “sycophant” tendency of chatbots, impacts on teens, and the need for parental controls and guardrails. Dave cautions against overreacting to isolated news stories amplified by modern media, while both acknowledge AI can help process thoughts and even ease loneliness—ideally as a temporary aid.
Listener Andy reframes AI as “simulated intelligence,” a tool that should be matched to the job; the hosts agree, emphasizing oversight and recognizing AI’s limits and “stupid loops.” They daydream about near-term household robots and ask listeners what price would make an “AI handyman” a must-buy. Dave’s quick tip: skip guided food tours and have ChatGPT build a self-guided itinerary tailored to your tastes, which saved his family money and improved the experience. They close by inviting listener feedback on the discussion.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #681 for Casual FridAI, September 5th, 2025
- September 5th: Bring Your Manners to Work Day
- 00:01:22 Opus Clips
- Agent Opus Beta
- 00:03:58 The risks of telling AI personal details
- Sometimes AI uses information about you in ways that can be uncomfortable or unhealthy
- 00:06:48 Don’t make decisions based upon the news
- 00:09:37 Using technology to stave off loneliness
- ChatGPT’s Parental Controls are coming
- 00:11:08 What’s your “I’m in!” price for an AI Handyman?
- Shannon: $20K
- Dave: $50K
- You? feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:13:24 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
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- 00:16:18 Andy-Is AI Artificial Intelligence or Simulated Intelligence?
- 00:18:45 Book a food tour with ChatGPT
- 00:23:27 Business Brain 681 Outtro
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The post FridAI – AI Guardrails – Business Brain 681 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon open episode 680 by diving into listener mail: Mike’s favorite interview question (“How many ways can you use a pencil?”) as a way to break candidates out of scripted answers and spark creativity; reflections on interviewing via internships; a humorous twist on “sell me this pen.” Patrick shares text-expander shortcuts for email signatures; Dave notes built-in iPhone/Mac text replacements, while Shannon says he now relies more on Slack/DMs than email. They joke about a dream where speaking louder makes text larger and note texting’s lack of native follow-up tools.
Mid-episode they read two five-star reviews praising the show’s longevity, actionable advice, and openness, reminding listeners to email feedback@businessbrain.show to enter their MacBook giveaway. More listener feedback introduces “forcing parties” (accountability sessions where people knock out avoided tasks together), which they tie to partner accountability and real-time Zoom coworking. A brief connection delay leads Shannon to discover an AI agent hogging CPU—teasing a Friday discussion. They close by inviting topic suggestions, pointing to businessbrain.show/review, and signing off with their “charmed life” mantra.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #680 for Wednesday, September 3rd, 2025
- September 3rd: Global Talent Acquisition Day
- The Babybacks Band
- 00:02:45 Mike-Interview question: How many ways can you use a pencil?
- 00:05:55 Patrick-Email Signature Management Tip
- Keyboard Maestro
- TextExpander
- 00:07:40 Texting vs. Email in Business
- 00:10:08 SPONSOR: MasterClass. Right now, our listeners get an additional 15% off any annual membership at MasterClass.com/BUSINESSBRAIN
- 00:11:42 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:13:05 JeffreysBeam-BB Review-5-stars
- 00:14:25 Rich W Portraits-BB Review-Wow! Great Tips & Advice!
- 00:16:41 Taylor-Discuss “Forcing Parties”
- Bryan O’Connell on Business Brain
- CEO Roundtable on Business Brain
- 00:21:43 Business Brain 680 Outtro
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The post Q&A with Dave and Shannon – Business Brain 680 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon kick off this Casual Friday episode with some lighthearted banter about the difference between chop suey and chow mein before diving into a deeper conversation about AI’s role in leadership. They agree that AI can be a valuable assistant, offering perspective and analysis, but caution that it can also mislead leaders if used as a crutch or if prompts aren’t carefully designed. They emphasize using AI as a tool for growth, not validation, and suggest frameworks like modeling AI responses after respected leaders such as Bob Iger or Bill Campbell to get constructive feedback.
The conversation then shifts into AI SEO, with Shannon sharing how clients have recently found him through ChatGPT. They explore how AI-driven search is transforming marketing by prioritizing conversational queries, authority, and brand trust over traditional keyword strategies. Best practices discussed include creating clusters of related content, structuring content in a Q&A style, and doubling down on personal branding to stand out in AI-generated answers.
The episode is rounded out with sponsor messages from Bitdefender and Jerry, and the hosts reinforce the importance of proactive adaptation in both business and personal branding as the landscape shifts toward AI-first discovery. They close by encouraging listeners to leave reviews and keep building their “charmed lives.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #679 for Casual FridAI, August 29th, 2025
- 00:01:10 August 29th: National Chop Suey Day
- 00:02:54 Can AI Make You a Better Leader?
- Maybe!
- AI Can help you see things from different perspectives
- But don’t use it as a crutch…use it as an unreliable assistant
- 00:05:38 Can AI be your leadership/management coach?
- Be careful with your prompts. You want AI’s answers to be critical, not complementary.
- Choose a leader who has had success and that you want to emulate. Tell AI to be your mentor based upon Bob Iger (for example, or Jack Welch, or Bill Campbell)
- BusinessBrain.show/Brain – ask our brain!
- 00:09:57 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:11:25 SPONSOR: Jerry. Car insurance made simple and finally on your side. Drivers who save with Jerry save on average $110 a month! Head to JERRY.ai/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:13:29 Do you need AI SEO for your business?
- (The answer is yes)
- Trust signals matter the most: Authority, Credibility, Structured Content
- FAQ, How-to, Comparison Posts
- Build topical authority with clusters, not keywords
- Double down on your brand!
- 00:19:12 The personal brand is so important
- 00:20:12 Business Brain 679 Outtro
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Here’s what ChatGPT has to say about AI SEO:
Great question — this is one of the biggest shifts happening right now in marketing. Being “AI-SEO ready” means preparing for a world where people ask AI (ChatGPT, Perplexity, Gemini, etc.) instead of typing keywords into Google. Here’s how to think about it:1. Understand the New Search Behavior Conversational queries: Instead of typing “best hiking boots,” users will ask, “What are the best hiking boots for wet trails under $200?” * Direct answers, not links: AI gives summarized, synthesized answers. If your brand isn’t cited as a trusted source, you may get skipped entirely. * Trust signals matter more: AI looks for authority, credibility, and structure* in content when choosing what to reference.
2. Structure Content for AI Retrieval Answer questions clearly: Write in a Q&A style that matches conversational prompts people ask AI. FAQ sections, “how-to” guides, and comparison posts work well. * Use structured data: Schema markup (product info, reviews, author details) gives AI models clean signals to pull from. * Concise summaries*: Start articles with clear, 2–3 sentence overviews — AI loves digestible takeaways.
3. Build Topical Authority Clusters over keywords: Instead of one keyword article, build a cluster of related content around a topic. Example: not just “handbag resale tips,” but a cluster on sourcing, pricing, authenticity, marketplaces, and scaling. * Authoritativeness*: AI prefers sites with expertise demonstrated across multiple related articles, not one-off posts.
4. Optimize for Citations (AI Mentions) Get linked from high-authority sites (news, universities, niche blogs). AI often pulls from these sources. * Original research, stats, and case studies are gold. AI tools surface data points, so if you’re the source, you get visibility. * Unique frameworks/methods* (like your “Liquidation Method”) help you stand out. AI is more likely to reference branded systems than generic content.
5. Think Multi-Channel, Not Just Google AI assistants pull from YouTube, Reddit, forums, and newsletters as much as websites. Posting your content in diverse channels increases discoverability. * Podcasts and transcripts* also matter — AI uses them as knowledge sources.
6. Double Down on Brand As AI search becomes more answer-oriented, the brand is the differentiator*. If someone just trusts “Shannon Jean’s Reseller Mastermind” instead of “some blog,” they’ll bypass generic AI answers and go directly to you.
In short:
Prepare by writing conversational, authoritative content clusters, marking them up properly, and publishing in multiple formats (web, audio, video). Then focus on building brand trust so when people do get AI answers, they’re looking for your name in them.Would you like me to create a playbook/checklist you (and your mastermind members) could use to make sure every piece of content is “AI-SEO ready”?The post FridAI Leadership + AI SEO – Business Brain 679 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave opens the episode by sharing about his travels to Dallas for Podcast Movement and then to Toronto with his family, where they finally fulfilled his promise to take his kids to see Oasis. The concert, made even more memorable by pouring rain, became a lesson in shared adversity and living a “charmed life.” This transitions into Shannon discussing his growing $5/month online community for entrepreneurs learning reselling, now at nearly 1,200 members. He experiments with adding a $29 Costco liquidation guide as an upsell during signup, which quickly generated $1,000 in its first week. The two highlight the importance of offering real value and keeping a beginner’s mindset in entrepreneurship.
Sponsors Bitdefender and Jerry are introduced, emphasizing cybersecurity for small businesses and simpler car insurance shopping. Dave stresses the importance of communication and trust in small business tools. The hosts then dive into Airbnb experiences, emphasizing how five-star reviews have been inflated and are no longer informative. They discuss the value of proactive communication with guests, fixing small issues, and even suggest reforming review systems to start at a baseline lower than five stars to provide more meaningful feedback.
They close by encouraging listeners to leave a five-star review for the podcast at businessbrain.show/review, promoting a MacBook giveaway as an incentive, and reinforcing their message of living a charmed entrepreneurial life while learning through curiosity and adaptability.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #678 for Wednesday, August 27th, 2025
- August 27th: National Just Because Day
- 00:03:40 Learning to be a community builder
- Adding value for between $17 and $37
- 00:08:31 “I watched a tutorial”
- Kajabi
- 00:10:39 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:07 SPONSOR: Jerry. Car insurance made simple and finally on your side. Drivers who save with Jerry save on average $110 a month! Head to JERRY.ai/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:14:12 The Flaws of Stars-Based Review Culture
- Quick Tip: Stay at your AirBnB regularly to fix all the little things
- 00:20:48 Vacation Rental Success and Failure Stories
- 00:23:29 Review Inflation
- 00:26:03 Business Brain 678 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- Review Business Brain
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The post The 17-37 Rule + Review Culture – Business Brain 678 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this Casual Friday episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton opens with a heartfelt parenting story sparked by National Tooth Fairy Day, tying it into a broader business lesson. He shares how his daughter realized the truth about Santa, and he used it as an opportunity to empower her with belief by choice—not enforcement. Dave and Shannon explore how this same dynamic applies in business: leaders initially carry the energy and vision, but over time, it’s crucial to pass that belief to team members and allow them to choose to buy into the mission. Shannon emphasizes how belief and purpose in work must eventually come from within the team, not just from the founder’s enthusiasm.
The conversation then shifts into a discussion of AI agents and operators. While both hosts are avid users of ChatGPT and consider it incredibly valuable, they express skepticism around AI agents, noting that most current implementations feel unfinished or unreliable for business-critical tasks. Dave mentions his positive experience using GitHub Copilot for coding, while Shannon describes ChatGPT as a daily-use tool that saves thousands of dollars. Both are eager to hear from listeners who have had success with AI agents and encourage feedback, hoping to one day integrate them meaningfully into their workflows.
The episode also includes sponsor spots for Bitdefender and Constant Contact, with Dave highlighting Bitdefender’s scam protection for small businesses and Constant Contact’s all-in-one marketing automation features. The hosts wrap up the show with appreciation for their audience and a reminder to keep living the “charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #677 for Casual FridAI, August 22nd, 2025
- 00:01:11 August 22nd: National Tooth Fairy Day
- What is your noble cause?
- 00:07:21 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:08:50 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com
- 00:10:36 Operators and Agents and…Progress?
- Github CoPilot
- 00:16:57 Business Brain 677 Outtro
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The post FridAI – Operators and Agents – Business Brain 677 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick off with a humorous and enthusiastic celebration of National Bacon Lovers Day, sharing stories about smoked bacon, pig candy, and even a mug full of bacon. The conversation then shifts to a meaningful discussion about the importance of gaining buy-in from your family when pursuing entrepreneurship. They stress that support from spouses, kids, and even extended family members is crucial for long-term success and mental stability as an entrepreneur. Shannon shares that he often encourages clients to include their spouse in business discussions to ensure alignment and eliminate negative pushback.
They expand the conversation by emphasizing how buy-in isn’t just important at home—it’s also critical within your team. Specifically, Dave highlights how the families of employees can influence retention, so building a workplace that employees proudly talk about at home makes a significant impact. The hosts then pivot to a fun yet practical idea about hiring socially aware team members (like a sports expert) to help connect with clients and customers through shared interests like sports. They end the episode with favorite interview questions that help identify personality and passion, encouraging listeners to send in their own to enter a MacBook giveaway, all while reinforcing the show’s theme of living a “charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #676 for Wednesday, August 20th, 2025
- 00:01:00 August 20th: National Bacon Lover’s Day
- Millionaire Bacon at Sweet Maple on the menu
- 00:03:19 The Importance of having full family buy in (for you, yes, and also for your team/employees)
- Everyone is a customer
- 00:11:21 SPONSOR: Bitdefender. Keep your small business safe with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security. Save 30% when you go to bitdefender.com/BRAIN
- 00:12:52 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com
- 00:14:38 What do you do if you’re not a sports person?
- Sports can be a huge part of business
- 00:18:34 Interview questions
- What are YOU a nerd about?
- What should I remember about you?
- 00:21:40 Business Brain 676 Outtro
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The post Full Family Buy-In and Sports Guy – Business Brain 676 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon share the launch of their new AI-powered tool built using Delphi.ai, which allows listeners to search through over 11 years and 674 episodes of Business Brain content. The tool, which can be accessed at businessbrain.show/brain, offers personalized insights by indexing approximately 4 million words of past episodes. They emphasize that it only pulls from their show’s advice and interviews, making it a focused and reliable resource.
They also discuss the latest updates in ChatGPT-5, noting improved context handling, multimodal capabilities (like integrating text, audio, and video), and enhanced reasoning. Shannon shares a real-world example of using GPT-5 to troubleshoot an AC issue in his son’s car, demonstrating how AI can offer guided problem-solving by progressively asking for more input. They also talk about developments in LLM access restrictions (e.g., Cloudflare’s paywall for crawling), and Shannon’s use of agents and tools like Comet from Perplexity.
The episode closes with thoughts on the evolving AI landscape, the growing number of paid tools, and how each platform competes and leapfrogs each other with new releases. The hosts encourage listeners to try out their new “brain” tool, share feedback, and connect via social media or email to discuss how they’re using AI in their own businesses.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #675 for Casual FridAI, August 15th, 2025
- August 15th: National Relaxation Day
- 00:01:10 Delphi AI Business BrAIn … it’s alive!
- 00:04:34 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:06:06 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:07:29 ChatGPT GPT-5 Features (with Thinking!)
- 00:10:14 Cloudflare’s LLM Block
- 00:11:16 Feeding ChatGPT symptoms of a problem…and come up with a solutions
- Perplexity Comet
- 00:14:25 When in doubt, start a new chat!
- 00:15:32 Business Brain 675 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean open with lighthearted banter about left-handedness before Shannon shares a major milestone: his $5 Reseller Mastermind has reached over 1,000 members. He explains how the community started almost by accident through X (Twitter) subscriptions, evolved to a Kajabi-based platform for better management, and now allows members to connect, share resources, and learn. The move off social platforms gave Shannon ownership of his audience and reduced his personal workload as members help each other.
The conversation then shifts to Dave’s new business maxim: “Burned bridges kill future deals,” an extension of the classic “time kills all deals.” They discuss the importance of handling business disputes diplomatically to preserve relationships, even when wronged. Shannon offers real-world examples from product sourcing, noting that measured, respectful responses often turn problems into leverage for better future terms. Both stress that vendors, employees, and industry contacts move between companies, so preserving goodwill keeps opportunities open.
The episode wraps with sponsor messages from Shopify and Eversite, reinforcing the importance of reliable tools and systems for entrepreneurs, and a call for listener feedback on the “burned bridges” concept.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #674 for Wednesday, August 13th, 2025
- August 13th: Lefthanders Day
- 00:02:45 Your customers will tell you the problem that they need you to solve
- Congrats to Shannon for hitting 1,000 members to his reseller mastermind!
- Using Kajabi
- Solving the Consultant Trap
- 00:11:18 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:51 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:14:17 Time Kills ALL Deals, but… Burned Bridges Kill Future Deals
- Beware of backing someone into a corner
- Give them an opportunity to save face
- 00:19:47 Business Brain 674 Outtro
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In episode 673 of Business Brain, recorded on International Beer Day 2025, Dave and Shannon attempt a live experiment: building a “Business Brain” AI using Delphi. Inspired by Chris Koerner’s “ChrisGPT”, they explore connecting their decade-long podcast archive to Delphi, aiming to let listeners query their advice, strategies, and philosophies directly. Although the onboarding process reveals some friction—Delphi treats them as a single person and requires identity verification—they begin the setup and plan to continue refining it offline.
Shannon also shares his experience upgrading to ChatGPT Teams to connect it with his Google Drive. This enables deeper data analysis and collaboration, though he highlights the challenge of separating personal from business accounts. He finds the value worth the cost, particularly with agent access and document indexing. Later in the episode, he discusses experimenting with Grok’s animation tools to bring old photos to life—sharing a humorous example from decades ago—and reflects on how far technology has come in his lifetime.
The hosts also offer practical AI advice, like how measured, emotion-free negotiation can preserve leverage, and Shannon shares a clever tip for bands to maintain venue relationships even when they’re unavailable. Sponsor shout-outs include Mint Mobile and Eversite, both services the hosts personally use, reinforcing the show’s authentic, business-focused recommendations.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #673 for Casual FridAI, August 8th, 2025
- August 8th: International Beer Day
- 00:01:24 Building a Business Brain with Delphi.ai
- 00:06:54 From ChatGPT when negotiating: “The more professional and measured you are, the more leverage you keep.”
- 00:10:06 SPONSOR: Mint Mobile – This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get this new customer offer and your 3-month Unlimited wireless plan for just $15 per month at MintMobile.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:11:46 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:13:19 Connecting ChatGPT to Google Drive
- ChatGPT Teams vs. Plus
- 00:16:37 Using Grok AI’s Imagine image generation tool
- 00:19:31 Business Brain 673 Outtro
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Prefix:
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #672 for Wednesday, August 6th, 2025
- August 6th: Finish Your Degree Day (also National Root Beer Float Day)
- 00:01:58 Is it important to finish your degree?
- Or is it a stupid rule?
- 00:09:45 Ross Perot and stupid rules with Home Depot
- 00:12:46 SPONSOR: Mint Mobile – This year, skip breaking a sweat AND breaking the bank. Get this new customer offer and your 3-month Unlimited wireless plan for just $15 per month at MintMobile.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:14:25 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:15:59 The value of study abroad programs
- 00:17:07 Being a valuable team member
- Prioritizing collaboration
- 00:24:39 Business Brain 672 Outtro
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The post To Degree or not Degree – Business Brain 672 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into practical AI tools that help business owners and individuals navigate modern tasks with less stress. A listener shares a clever tip for customizing ChatGPT responses by asking for links with every reply. Shannon introduces Gamma.app, a new AI platform he used to turn a pricing strategy post into a slick visual presentation—perfect for sales decks, proposals, and even one-page websites. The duo discusses how Gamma streamlines the process of turning rough content into polished, editable assets.
Dave then shares a real-world use case: reviewing a wedding venue contract using ChatGPT. Not only did the AI flag one-sided clauses, but it also helped Dave draft a more balanced alternative and even write a respectful, persuasive email to propose changes. The conversation emphasizes using AI not just for analysis, but for thoughtful, collaborative communication that protects your interests without burning bridges. They wrap up the show with a call for listeners to send in their own AI discoveries—because every tool that sharpens your business brain helps you keep living that charmed life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #671 for Casual FridAI, August 1st, 2025
- August 1st: Start Up Day Across America
- 00:01:09 Jim-QT-Tell ChatGPT/Perplexity/Gemini/Claude to cite 3 sources for every answer
- “Every answer should come with at least 3 links to source pages I can click on to read more.”
- 00:03:11 Gamma AI
- Shannon’s Whistle, Workhorse, and Whale Example on Gamma App
- 00:08:28 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:09:58 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:11:46 Reviewing Contracts…and proposing the way to communicate your changes.
- 00:23:59 Business Brain 671 Outtro
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Today on Business Brain, Shannon kicks things off with a brisket victory, reminding us that even after years of doing something, there’s always a new layer to learn—an insight that mirrors business growth. Dave shares a health update, revealing he was battling Lyme disease but managed to travel and speak at a conference while choosing not to drink alcohol. This sparks a conversation on how business functions often revolve around alcohol, and how having a few easy, non-confrontational reasons ready can help you gracefully opt out without judgment or awkwardness. The duo dives into how our relationship with alcohol evolves over time and how staying clear-headed can unlock unexpected advantages during networking events.
They also riff on how communication styles differ dramatically between in-person conversations and written messages. Shannon argues that written communication requires a more expressive approach—adding exclamation points, emojis, or personalized phrasing—to compensate for the lack of tone and body language. They discuss the importance of crafting automated messages with personality and branding (even down to using the same emoji in every newsletter). Dave highlights how ChatGPT helps him trim wordy emails, and they close out by urging listeners to reflect on how their employees communicate, and whether tools like templates or auto-responders help or hurt clarity.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #670 for Wednesday, July 30th, 2025
- July 30th: World Snorkeling Day
- 00:01:00 You never stop learning!
- 00:02:49 Talk about not drinking on business trips
- “Drunk words are sober thoughts.”
- Shared crisis
- Actually listening
- DUBS Passive Earplugs
- 00:14:03 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:15:34 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:17:10 Differentiating yourself with text vs. phone
- 00:23:00 Business Brain 670 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean dive into the new agent abilities being rolled out by ChatGPT. These agents go beyond basic chatting, allowing users to automate tasks like managing emails, calendars, messages, reservations, and even moderating communities across platforms like Slack and Discord. They discuss the potential of these features, which are being gradually released to paid ChatGPT users, and how they might streamline daily business operations. Shannon shares how he’s particularly excited about applying these tools to his community and content workflows, while Dave explores how agent mode will work through desktop apps for broader system integration.
The hosts also reflect on their long-term use of ChatGPT as a business consultant and even for personal matters like health concerns, emphasizing its value as an objective tool not influenced by human bias. They contrast this to how traditional professionals like doctors rely on personal experience, which can sometimes cloud judgment. Both hosts touch on the broader vision of using AI to preserve their insights and experiences for future generations, envisioning a digital legacy that family members could someday interact with.
The conversation wraps with thoughtful commentary on the implications of legacy, mortality, and generational knowledge transfer. Shannon and Dave muse about how human progress is shaped by generational resets, yet there is enduring value in archiving stories and lessons. They close by inviting listeners to share how they’re using agents in their own businesses and promoting a giveaway for Business Brain reviewers.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #669 for Casual Friday, July 25th, 2025
- July 25th: International Red Shoe Day
- 00:01:18 ChatGPT Agents
- 00:06:58 SPONSOR: OpenPhone is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/BusinessBrain
- 00:08:42 ChatGPT as a consultant…it’s not biased by experience.
- 00:12:52 Agent ideas…and life, longevity, and legacies!
- 00:19:14 Business Brain 669 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean shares a powerful metaphor that guides his work and life: the campfire. For him, success is about creating meaningful experiences and connections with loved ones—gathering around a campfire at his river house, watching his family enjoy the space he built through years of hard work. It’s a symbol of why he grinds day in and day out. He encourages listeners to find their own metaphor or “noble cause” that drives them beyond the daily hustle—to build a life that pulls them forward with purpose.
Dave Hamilton reflects on his recent health scare—diagnosed with Lyme disease—and how it forced him to slow down, reprioritize, and only focus on the most important work. That experience helped him realize how much of his time had been consumed by nonessential tasks, and that some things don’t fall apart when you step back. He shares how delegating or even automating B-level tasks (with the help of new tools like ChatGPT agents) could help entrepreneurs focus more on their A-level priorities and live their version of a charmed life.
Together, they challenge listeners to define their own “charmed life” and identify the signs they’re already living it. Whether it’s a campfire, a podcast studio, or something entirely different, the point is to use that vision to create purpose and joy in your entrepreneurial journey.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #668 for Wednesday, July 23rd, 2025
- July 23rd: International Yada Yada Day
- 00:01:40 This is why we work
- Shannon’s Campfire Metaphor…what’s yours?
- What’s your noble cause?
- 00:08:39 SPONSOR: OpenPhone is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/BusinessBrain
- 00:10:22 Dave’s recent health issue leads to learning…
- 00:13:14 Value of forced prioritization
- 00:18:18 How does your charmed life manifest itself in how you live your life?
- 00:20:12 Business Brain 668 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton explore the unique and advanced ways they’ve been using ChatGPT, far beyond typical applications. Shannon shares how he uses ChatGPT to build and run his reseller mastermind community—developing branding, member agreements, swag, engagement strategies, and more. He also discusses leveraging AI to analyze hundreds of coaching call transcripts, extracting insights, emotional patterns, and frameworks to build scalable systems and codify intellectual property.
Dave shares how he uses ChatGPT for more technical purposes, like building a custom Cloudflare worker for anonymized tracking and for deeply contextual health troubleshooting—using it alongside his doctor to track symptoms and narrow down diagnoses. Both hosts emphasize the power of ChatGPT’s multimodal abilities, like converting images or PDFs into editable text and syncing disparate data sources.
They close with a discussion about the rising value of voice-mode interactions with ChatGPT, noting how it has replaced much of their Google searching. The duo also teases a future episode on SEO for AI-based search, suggesting that businesses need to adapt as AI changes the digital landscape.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #667 for Casual Friday, July 18th, 2025
- July 16th: World Listening Day
- 00:01:15 ChatGPT, tell me something unique that I have used ChatGPT for that is different than a typical user
- 00:07:41 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com
- 00:09:16 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:51 Dane Vahey-ChatGPT use cases
- ChatGPT in Chrome search
- Editable text from PDFs/images
- 00:14:30 Using ChatGPT’s voice mode
- 00:18:42 Business Brain 667 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon welcome guest Nick Hancock from Direct Outlet Mattresses. Nick shares his journey from working a 9-to-5 job he disliked to diving into his family’s multi-generational mattress business. After getting fired from his previous job, he embraced the mattress world with the help of his father and brother. Now based in Charlotte, Nick explains how he’s grown his business beyond traditional retail by leveraging social media — especially X (formerly Twitter) — to connect with customers and drive national sales.
Nick emphasizes the power of authentic storytelling and personal branding in building trust and generating business. By sharing real-life moments and insights into his daily work, he’s developed a loyal online following and turned seemingly mundane mattress content into engaging posts that drive results, including hotel and Airbnb deals. He stresses the importance of content, particularly video, and plans to scale his business further through digital channels, rather than expanding physical stores.
The episode wraps with a discussion about customer service in the mattress business, Nick’s in-store “comfort test” strategy to reduce returns, mattress longevity tips, and how changing habits — even what side of the bed you sleep on — can be beneficial. Nick’s story showcases how consistency, transparency, and leaning into content creation can elevate any business, even one as traditionally “boring” as mattresses.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #666 for Wednesday, July 16th, 2025
- July 16th: National Hot Dog Day
- 00:01:47 Guest Co-host: Nick Hancock from Direct Outlet Mattresses
- Dad started the mattress business
- Nick got fired (from a different job), Covid hit, and Nick decided to learn the mattress business
- 00:03:53 The value of working elsewhere before joining the family business.
- 00:05:14 Being The Mattress Guy on X
- 00:08:19 SPONSOR: Constant Contact makes marketing easier and more effective for small businesses like yours. Try Constant Contact free for 30 days at ConstantContact.com
- 00:09:54 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:28 With mattresses, it pays to slow down and encourage the customer to choose the right mattress.
- Don’t just rush to a sale
- 00:13:45 Care for your mattress
- Rotate it 180-degrees every 3 months
- If you have a king mattress you can rotate it 90-degrees if you’re ok with it occasionally being 5” shorter
- 00:16:38 What’s next?
- Rolling out eCommerce
- 00:18:49 Social Media driving business sales isn’t new…at all!
- 00:20:25 Business Brain 666 Outtro
- Follow Nick Hancock
- The Mattress Guy on X
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In this lively FridAI episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean dive into personal experiments with AI tools. Shannon shares how he used AI to analyze his credit card and bank statements, uncovering surprising expenses like $1,143 spent on SaaS subscriptions and nearly $700 on Amazon. He discusses how he’s using AI tools like ChatGPT and Replit to create more efficient systems and audit his finances, even replacing paid services like FreshBooks. The hosts also explore the potential of AI agents for canceling unused subscriptions and discuss privacy considerations around sharing financial data with AI.
The conversation then shifts to creative uses of AI. Dave plays a country song he created using the AI music generator Suno, using only a single line of text as the hook. They talk about how tools like Suno help quickly flesh out creative ideas and iterate on them. The song’s hook, “The beer made it better for a minute,” sparks laughter and even a potential t-shirt idea.
The episode wraps with sponsor messages and an open invitation for listeners to share how they’re using AI. Whether it’s for productivity or creativity, Dave and Shannon highlight the power of these tools to simplify life and business — while always keeping things fun and engaging.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #665 for Casual Friday, July 11th, 2025
- July 11th: World Kebab Day
- 00:01:30 Writing songs with Suno AI
- 00:02:10 Uploading your bank and credit card statements to ChatGPT
- 00:09:32 SPONSOR: OpenPhone is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/BusinessBrain
- 00:11:11 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:13:00 Writing songs with Suno AI
- “Beer Made It Better…For a Minute”
- Business Brain 665 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick off by reflecting on their July 4th holiday weekends before diving into an engaging conversation about energy, connection, and entrepreneurship. Shannon shares insights from over 140 discovery calls he’s had with members of his $5 mastermind, emphasizing the surprising value he receives from these conversations — particularly a standout call with a driven 19-year-old entrepreneur named Cooper. The two discuss how meaningful connection, especially in a remote work world, can energize and inspire, helping entrepreneurs stay motivated and purposeful.
They explore the importance of storytelling in business, with Shannon encouraging his coaching clients to leverage their personal motivations — such as supporting family or contributing to their communities — in their brand narratives. This authenticity, he argues, builds trust and differentiation. The duo also revisits the concept of “selling the transformation, not the transaction,” using the Michelin brothers as a prime example. Rather than marketing tires, Michelin promoted travel and experience, which in turn created more demand for their product.
The episode wraps with a nod to the show’s sponsors and a reminder to entrepreneurs to sell the outcome their product or service provides, not just the item itself. Dave and Shannon encourage listeners to think about how they can market the experience their business creates — a strategy that can be both more compelling and more rewarding.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #664 for Wednesday, July 9th, 2025
- July 9th: National Don’t Put All Your Eggs In One Omelet Day
- 00:01:57 The energy of connecting with people
- 00:10:28 SPONSOR: OpenPhone is the #1 business phone system that streamlines and scales your customer communications. Get 20% off your first 6 months at OpenPhone.com/BusinessBrain
- 00:12:08 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:13:45 Selling the experience, not the product
- Founders Podcast (and their episode about the Michelin Brothers)
- Sell the transformation, not the transaction
- 00:19:06 Business Brain 664 Outtro
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In this Independence Day episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick things off by reflecting on unbirthdays, reviews from their listeners, and the continued popularity of their “FridAI” episodes. They emphasize the value of experimentation and how the show has evolved over time to stay fresh and relevant for both themselves and their audience.
The duo then dive into practical tools to boost productivity. Dave shares tips on using the ChatGPT desktop app for deep integration with Mac apps, allowing users to streamline work by sharing files and leveraging app-aware functionality. Shannon introduces Replit, a no-code AI coding tool he used to build a custom financial dashboard. He explains how he walked through the process—describing what he wanted and letting Replit generate a working web app to categorize business income and expenses simply by forwarding emails.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #663 for Casual Friday, July 4th, 2025
- 00:01:33 July 4th: Alice In Wonderland Day
- 00:02:28 BB Review-WeRPID-A Must-Listen for Anyone with a Growth Mindset
- 00:04:25 BB Review-FirstInTheRace-5-Stars
- 00:05:23 Experiment with your business to keep things fresh for you and your customers
- 00:06:10 Do you use the ChatGPT Desktop App?
- VS Code with CoPilot
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- 00:11:28 Replit
- 00:18:55 Business Brain 663 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean kick off with a candid conversation about Dave’s recent illness, which includes an unexplained fever and persistent headache. Despite being under the weather, Dave emphasizes the importance of consistency and leadership, especially when managing a growing business. He discusses the challenges of maintaining productivity while sick, using tools like Loom to create SOPs and keep his team aligned as they evolve internal systems at Backbeat.
The hosts also explore the topic of decision-making and fear in business. They stress the value of empowering employees to act independently, even if the decisions aren’t perfect, and highlight the power of curiosity to overcome fear. Shannon shares how reframing risk-taking as experimentation helps mitigate fear of the unknown, and recounts how a failed software venture taught him valuable lessons that led to writing a successful book.
Finally, they reflect on the psychological differences between fear of failure and fear of being perceived as a failure. They encourage listeners to embrace action, share their own fears and insights, and participate in the community through reviews and feedback. The episode blends vulnerability, leadership strategy, and personal growth, all with their signature enthusiasm.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #662 for Wednesday, July 2nd, 2025
- July 2nd: World UFO Day
- 00:01:35 Fever Dreams and Your Business
- Loom to train and create SOPs
- 00:11:37 SPONSOR: Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/brain #squarepod #ad
- 00:13:02 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:14:53 Managing Fear
- The main source of fear is the fear of the unknown
- Will this work? Feed your curiosity.
- “Failure gives you data, fear gives you excuses.”
- 00:20:19 Fear of failure or fear of being a failure?
- 00:21:26 Business Brain 662 Outtro
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In this Casual Friday episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into a discussion about Delphi.ai, a tool designed to create a persistent, AI-powered version of your knowledge and insights. Shannon shares his plan to test Delphi by uploading transcripts from his coaching sessions to develop an AI assistant that can respond to client questions in his voice and style. The goal is to increase responsiveness in his Slack community and free up time by allowing AI to handle frequently asked questions—particularly for his reseller mastermind group. They discuss the potential of such tech to scale personalized advice without always being present.
The conversation then pivots to a comparison of ChatGPT and Perplexity, where Dave explains his frustrations with ChatGPT’s tendency to “people-please” and its limitations in long, complex sessions. He finds Perplexity to be more accurate and less prone to misdirection in search queries, especially for coding and in-depth questions. The episode also includes glowing listener reviews and a reminder about their MacBook giveaway. Ultimately, the show highlights the evolving landscape of AI tools for entrepreneurs and encourages experimentation while remaining mindful of risks and limitations.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #661 for Casual Friday, June 27th, 2025
- June 27th: National Food Truck Day
- 00:01:35 Delphi.AI
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- 00:12:28 Perplexity might be a better search engine replacement than ChatGPT
- 00:17:33 BB Review-5 Stars-EnricoLimcaco
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- 00:19:30 Business Brain 661 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon pay tribute to Fred Smith, the founder of FedEx, highlighting his pivotal role in the development of overnight shipping. They share the legendary story of Smith gambling FedEx’s last cash in Las Vegas to make payroll, a gamble that ultimately kept the company alive. Shannon recounts his own entrepreneurial journey, including how he tried to partner with FedEx and eventually succeeded with DHL to implement a nationwide laptop repair pickup system. This move transformed his business from local to national, demonstrating how persistence and creative problem-solving can yield massive results.
The hosts then shift to a discussion on patience as a critical “currency” in business. Dave reflects on how patience, much like money or time, can be invested to build lasting relationships and trust—especially in sales, customer service, and startup growth. Shannon reinforces the idea by sharing how patience helped sustain their podcast until it became sponsor-worthy and scalable. They both stress the importance of sticking with a long-term vision, resisting the temptation for fast success, and staying positive—even when progress is slow. The episode closes with an encouragement for listeners to keep showing up, ask smart questions, and be patient with outcomes.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #660 for Wednesday, June 25th, 2025
- June 25th: Global Beatles Day
- 00:01:31 Fedex’s Fred Smith passed away
- Fred Smith made payroll…with blackjack!
- PowerBookResQ partnered with DHL for Same Day Pickups
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- 00:12:38 Patience is a currency
- 00:19:56 Business Brain 660 Outtro
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Want to live your Charmed Life? Then start using AI like your personal CFO. In this week’s episode of Business Brain, Shannon and Dave explore how to feed your business and personal finances into tools like ChatGPT to uncover waste, optimize spending, and build smarter systems—without relying on spreadsheets or budgeting apps. Think of it as hiring a ruthless, data-loving advisor who doesn’t sleep. They also cover tools like Granola.ai that help you record, summarize, and learn from meetings so you can sharpen your messaging and become a better closer.
You’ll learn how capturing and analyzing your data—everything from transcripts to bank statements—can help you build better habits, fine-tune your systems, and grow your revenue. The magic isn’t in working harder; it’s in working smarter with the help of powerful AI tools that are finally accessible to all of us. If you’re trying to scale, coach, or just stay organized in a sea of digital noise, now’s the time to pattern match your way to success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #659 for Casual Friday, June 20th, 2025
- June 20th: World Productivity Day
- 00:01:30 CopyPrompts on Threads-Let ChatGPT budget for you
- 00:04:42 Using ChatGPT as your medical triage assistant
- 00:06:15 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:07:45 SPONSOR: Eversite – Your own in-house web team for just $399/month. No big upfront fees, no long-term contracts—just a gorgeous, pro-managed website without the stress. Visit Eversite.com/bb to get started today!
- 00:09:43 Granola AI
- Inviting ChatGPT to know as much as it can about you
- AI used to be called Machine Learning, and ML used to be called Pattern Matching. This stuff has been used to target advertising to you for a long time.
- 00:18:22 Business Brain 659 Outtro
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You’re building a business—but are you being too impatient? This week on Business Brain, Shannon and Dave dive into why patience often trumps money in the early stages of entrepreneurship. Instead of chasing quick profits, focus on putting in reps, learning the game, and building a system that pays off long-term. You’ll hear how to stay grounded during those “grind now, profit later” phases, and why a strong foundation is your best shot at sustainable success. If you’re flipping products, launching a service, or just pivoting, the secret isn’t more cash—it’s more time, more process, and more clarity.
They also unpack the power of transparency in partnerships. Want to make smarter decisions with your co-founders? Try laying your cards on the table—real talk about personal cash needs can shift everything. Shannon shares how keeping expenses lean gives you maneuverability, while Dave reveals how his team shared their personal budgets to boost trust and empathy. It’s all about knowing what you really need, so you can stop panicking and start living your Charmed Life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #658 for Wednesday, June 18th, 2025
- June 18th: International Panic Day (and International Picnic Day)
- 00:02:44 BB 5-Star Review-Jeremy Luebke-Just the facts ma’am
- 00:03:20 BB Review-4 Stars-A Different Perspective
- 00:04:03 BB Review-Dave-5/5 Podcast
- 00:04:43 Quick Tip: Mix screenshots of your reviews in with your product images
- 00:07:27 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
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- 00:10:55 You need patience more than money
- “I need time more than I need money.”
- An experiment: Sharing your monthly expenses amongst your partners.
- 00:20:19 Business Brain 658 Outtro
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In this Business Brain episode, Dave Hamilton celebrates the 20th anniversary of his first podcast, Mac Geek Gab, reflecting on how a direct email to Steve Jobs led to Apple featuring his show on the launch day of their iTunes podcast directory. This moment serves as a springboard for a broader discussion with Shannon Jean about the importance of building relationships with decision-makers early—before you need them. Shannon shares a similar story from his time selling on Poshmark, where connecting with the company’s executives via LinkedIn eventually led to major promotional support. The takeaway: establish valuable connections in advance, and don’t hesitate to reach out directly—it’s often the “third door” to opportunity.
The second half dives into emerging uses of AI as personal assistants. Shannon shares a powerful case study from Nick Hulinski, who uses Claude (an AI model) to streamline his calendar, email, and weekly planning—essentially replacing the need for a human assistant. Dave and Shannon express interest in building a similar setup and lament Apple’s slower pace of integrating these AI tools in a privacy-conscious way. They also touch on how tools like Claude and ChatGPT are helping users build personal operating systems and frameworks for decision-making. The episode wraps with an invitation to connect, watch the live stream, and engage with the hosts directly through LinkedIn or email.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #657 for Casual Friday, June 13th, 2025
- June 13th: National Productive Business Civility Day
- 00:01:10 It was 20 years ago today…Dave launched his first podcast!
- Want a Steve Jobs story? Press play!
- 00:08:44 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:11 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:11:54 Claude fixed @CoFoundersNik’s Chaos
- Connect Gmail to Claude
- 00:18:30 Business Brain 657 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean kicks off the discussion by highlighting the importance of experimentation through a simple product called the Brain Press—a tactile fidget toy created by a fellow entrepreneur he follows on X. The segment uses the Brain Press as a springboard to emphasize the entrepreneurial value of trying new things, escaping the daily grind, and executing on small ideas just to see what happens. Shannon celebrates the mindset of building and testing, citing inspiration from others who create and launch products annually as passion projects or side hustles.
Dave Hamilton follows with a story about helping a client with a tech issue, which leads to a reflection on valuing time over money. Even when money was tight, Dave always focused on completing jobs efficiently rather than billing for more hours. Both hosts agree that this mindset builds trust with clients and fosters personal efficiency. The conversation ends with a mutual acknowledgment of how future-focused thinking helps them move quickly through tasks, maintain momentum, and ultimately live a “charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #656 for Wednesday, June 11th, 2025
- June 11th: National German Chocolate Cake Day
- Brain Press
- 00:05:28 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:06:54 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:08:16 The value of having an “I need time more than I need money” attitude, even when that’s not true.
- 00:14:49 Business Brain 656 Outtro
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In this Casual Friday episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick things off with a light-hearted celebration of National Donut Day before diving into a deeper conversation inspired by a post from Dr. Julie Gerner: “If I was a stranger stepping into this person’s life, what would I immediately fix or change?” The hosts explore how objective self-evaluation—or using AI tools like ChatGPT for analysis—can reveal blind spots and offer actionable improvements in business and life. Dave demonstrates this in real-time by prompting ChatGPT, which delivers insightful feedback on his mental clutter, decision-making habits, and money mindset.
The conversation transitions into a practical discussion about organizing information within AI tools. Shannon explains how he uses ChatGPT’s “projects” feature to sort and manage long-term content from his podcast, coaching, and other ventures—offering a systemized way to track insights and reuse assets. They touch on both the benefits and current limitations of this feature (like the inability to share project chats), and encourage listeners to explore prompt communities such as the Facebook group AI Prompts for Entrepreneurs.
The episode wraps with sponsor messages from SelectQuote and Square, followed by a reminder to leave podcast reviews for a chance to win a MacBook. As always, the hosts sign off by encouraging listeners to “keep living that charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #655 for Casual Friday, June 6th, 2025
- 00:00:50 June 6th: National Donut Day
- 00:01:44 Dr. Julie Gurner – Look at your life this way: “If I was a stranger stepping into this person’s life, what would I change to make it better.”
- The Limitless Dongle
- 00:07:12 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
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- 00:10:24 AI Prompts for Entrepreneurs Facebook Group
- 00:11:32 Making use of ChatGPT projects…on rails
- 00:15:28 Business Brain 655 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton kicks things off by sharing a standout customer service experience with FMPHost, a FileMaker Pro hosting company. After years of reliable service, Dave moved his FileMaker database to a self-hosted Docker container to save costs and consolidate resources. He praised FMPHost for making cancellation incredibly easy—a rarity that left a lasting positive impression and serves as a business lesson: making it easy for customers to cancel builds long-term goodwill and trust.
Shannon and Dave then dig into the logistics of sharing FileMaker solutions with clients. Shannon wants to provide a custom database to help resellers manage inventory and profits. They explore FileMaker Cloud’s licensing model, noting it’s not cheap but may be viable if clients purchase their own licenses. The conversation evolves into an impromptu endorsement of FileMaker’s power and flexibility as a bespoke business solution.
The episode closes with Shannon’s quote of the week—“Make adjustments, not excuses”—which sparks the idea to launch a Business Brain print-on-demand merch store featuring podcast catchphrases. The duo also crowdsource tips from listeners on how to better recover from time away, with Shannon seeking advice on managing his calendar and inbox after a 12-day vacation. As always, they wrap with appreciation for the audience and a reminder to keep living the charmed life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #654 for Wednesday, June 4th, 2025
- June 4th: Shopping Cart Day
- 00:01:12 FMPHost made our FileMaker Server Hosting cancellation simpler than ever!
- 00:06:55 Building and Sharing FileMaker Databases
- 00:12:43 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
- 00:14:18 SPONSOR: Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/brain #squarepod #ad
- 00:15:55 Make Adjustments, Not Excuses
- 00:19:46 Tips for digging out after being away?
- 00:21:41 Business Brain 654 Outtro
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In Episode 653 of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton shares a candid story about a business deal that fell apart after 18 months of negotiations. Despite the initial disappointment, Dave felt unexpected relief—realizing that the deal would have meant giving up control of the business and taking on fixed employment terms. The failed acquisition ultimately rekindled his excitement for rolling out new projects with his partners, reinforcing the value of ownership, fast decision-making, and strategic independence.
The conversation shifts into their FridAI segment, where Shannon and Dave discuss creative ways to use ChatGPT, like uploading handwritten task lists or calendar screenshots to get time-blocking and prioritization advice. They explore the potential of multimodal inputs and structured data like ICS files to streamline decision-making and reflect on how tools like AI can be most effective after first doing the work manually to understand the process.
Shannon also discusses the rapid growth of his $5 Mastermind group, which has nearly reached 500 members. He’s adapting by blocking out structured time for introductory calls and gradually systematizing his approach. The episode wraps with a reminder about their ongoing MacBook giveaway and a call for reviews, emphasizing the importance of listener engagement and support.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #653 for Casual Friday, May 30th, 2025
- May 30th: International Hug Your Cat Day
- 00:01:00 A deal died…and I liked it?
- 00:11:24 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:12:45 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:14:09 Lydia Davey-FridAI idea for capturing and prioritizing client work
- 00:17:22 Multi-modal uses of AI
- 00:21:08 AI to manage your time
- 00:23:39 Business Brain 653 Outtro
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In Episode 652 of Business Brain, Shannon Jean shares reflections from a recent trip to St. Lucia, highlighting the stark contrast between poverty and wealth on the island. He emphasizes how entrepreneurship there is a means of survival, with locals creatively hustling to sell everything from handmade goods to rum punch. The experience reminded him of the privilege and opportunity many in the U.S. enjoy, reinforcing the idea that success often stems from grit, simplicity, and perspective.
Shannon and Dave Hamilton explore the power of a “blue-collar mindset” in white-collar businesses—doing the hard work first before automating or delegating. They stress the importance of understanding systems manually (e.g., spreadsheets) before scaling, using examples like selling on Poshmark and building internal tools like their podcast ad scheduler.
The episode closes with a discussion on the role of AI and automation, specifically the concept of “vibe coding,” which they support—but only after you’ve done the foundational work yourself. Their message is clear: real business growth comes from a willingness to get your hands dirty, keep things simple, and always respect the hustle.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #652 for Wednesday, May 28th, 2025
- May 28th: National Hamburger Day
- 00:01:05 Observations from your trip
- The dichotomy of wealth vs. poverty
- 00:06:00 Entrepreneurship as a survival skill
- 00:10:40 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:12:02 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:25 Applying blue collar attitudes to white collar businesses
- Automation is great…but do it yourself FIRST.
- Synology Office
- Chase $100 Bills
- Vibe Coding
- 00:22:54 Business Brain 652 Outtro
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In Episode 651 of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into the concept of a “credibility funnel”—a precursor or complement to the traditional sales funnel. Shannon emphasizes how today’s AI tools can elevate a business’s professional image, especially through visual storytelling. He shares how he uses Napkin.ai to visualize abstract business ideas like credibility, customer service, unfair advantage, and storytelling, making complex concepts easier to communicate and more engaging for clients and newsletter readers.
They also explore AI-powered customer support, spotlighting Gumroad’s use of Helper AI to send highly relevant and personalized responses to podcast outreach. Dave praises the system’s ability to recognize context and deliver human-like interaction while being completely automated. Shannon and Dave agree that tools like these now allow small businesses to offer enterprise-level support and engagement—once impossible for solo entrepreneurs.
Finally, the episode wraps with a real-world win: Dave recounts how ChatGPT helped him recover a $37,000 IRS check by coaching him through the phone support maze during tax season. The key takeaway? Treat AI like an executive assistant—ready to guide, solve niche problems, and support your operations. Just be mindful when inputting sensitive data, especially if it involves clients or employees.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #651 for Casual Friday, May 23rd, 2025
- May 23rd: National Road Trip Day
- 00:01:06 BB Review: voncompton
- 00:02:01 Before you build a sales funnel, build your credibility funnel
- Business Brain 259 about Credibility Funnels
- Using Napkin.AI to create your Creditbility Funnel visualization
- 00:08:25 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:07 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:11:35 FridAI
- FileMaker
- Gumroad using Helper AI Support Agent for Instant Responses
- 00:17:17 I got my IRS check!
- Use AI as your assistant
- 00:20:50 Business Brain 651 Outtro
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In Episode 650 of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon welcome guest Michael Greenberg from 3rd Brain to explore the essential but often overlooked world of digital operations. Michael explains that before companies dive into AI and automation, they need to establish solid foundations—clear processes, documented operations, and organized data. His firm focuses on getting businesses “AI-ready” by standardizing internal workflows, integrating tools effectively, and building a unified data structure. This strategic groundwork is crucial, especially for older, legacy businesses that haven’t evolved digitally in decades.
The conversation touches on common pitfalls, like SMBs being distracted by shiny new SaaS tools or attempting to implement tech solutions before fixing underlying operational issues. Michael urges business owners to simplify—stick to one productivity suite, create naming conventions, build templates, and focus on consistency. He also shares his approach to AI-assisted writing, where he provides structure, examples, and data, then uses AI to fill in the connective tissue—saving time but still requiring human oversight to polish.
The episode wraps with advice on productizing internal tools and resisting the temptation to overcomplicate. As Shannon and Dave reflect on their own experiences with fragmented systems and underutilized tools, they agree that standardization, clarity, and operational discipline are what allow businesses to scale effectively and avoid chaos.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #650 for Wednesday, May 21st, 2025
- May 21st: International Tea Day
- 00:01:22 Guest Co-host: Michael Greenberg from 3rd Brain
- Shannon’s Tribe Business Group on X
- Third Brain provides Digital Operations (and AI and automation… just a few steps earlier)
- I want to build businesses that fit an existing budget line item
- 00:07:11 Evolving a (family) real estate business
- 00:09:00 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:44 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:12:12 Writing a book with AI
- Garbage in, Garbage Out – GET YOUR DATA RIGHT
- 00:15:31 Simplify your business FIRST
- 00:19:28 Productize your internal tools
- 00:21:55 Business Brain 650 Outtro
- Follow Michael Greenberg
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The post You Need a 3rd Brain with Michael Greenberg – Business Brain 650 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In Episode 649 of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon focus on the power of consistency and content creation in modern business. Kicking off with a listener email about the value of handwritten thank-you notes, they stress the importance of thoughtful outreach and relationship-building. From there, they segue into a deeper discussion on how every business is now in the content business, whether they realize it or not. Content isn’t just about marketing—it attracts clients, builds brand awareness, and even draws in potential employees.
The hosts emphasize that consistency beats quality when it comes to content performance on social media. Platforms favor creators who post regularly because it signals commitment, reducing the risk for the algorithm to promote your content. They encourage business owners to focus on one platform at a time, master it, and avoid spreading themselves too thin unless they have the team to manage engagement genuinely across multiple channels.
They also share practical advice: save every piece of content you create into a “content library,” reuse old posts as your audience grows, and use tools like Opus.pro and Loom to generate and repurpose video content. The key takeaway? Start now, even if it’s messy. Authenticity, consistency, and strategic content reuse will compound over time to grow your presence and business impact.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #649 for Casual Friday, May 16th, 2025
- May 16th: National Pizza Party Day
- 00:01:14 David-Treat Everyone like a customer…with a handwritten note!
- 00:02:54 Every Business is now in the content business
- 00:05:35 Consistency matters more than being on the right platform.
- Which platform(s) is(are) right for your business?
- 00:10:25 Build a content library
- Social media is like a parade
- 00:12:12 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:13:50 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:15:21 FridAI
- Shannon resale video content
- Opus.pro
- Loom
- Shannon resale video content
- 00:17:51 Using multiple platforms (im)properly
- 00:21:14 Experiment with timelapse videos
- 00:23:50 Business Brain 649 Outtro
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The post Every Business is in the Content Business + FridAI – Business Brain 649 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In Episode 648 of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into the evolving landscape of education and its impact on entrepreneurship and the workforce. Shannon shares a conversation with a colleague who helps businesses start trade schools—not just for profit, but to solve hiring challenges. These businesses leverage trade schools to train workers in-house, tap into government retraining grants, and recruit top-performing students directly into their companies. It’s a strategic move that creates a powerful competitive advantage and highlights how alternative education models are disrupting the traditional four-year college path.
The hosts discuss the diminishing ROI of expensive college degrees and spotlight faster, more affordable ways to gain credentials, like six-month accredited programs targeted at working adults, veterans, and healthcare professionals. Dave shares personal stories, including how his son bypassed degree barriers by proving himself through an internship, and how he himself built businesses without finishing college. They agree the system is undergoing a fundamental shift, driven not by institutions but by market needs and entrepreneurial innovation.
They close by critiquing the entrenched education establishment, especially in states like California, where union influence and bloated administration hinder meaningful reform. Despite institutional resistance, Dave and Shannon remain optimistic about the role of trade schools, micro-schools, and AI-powered learning in reshaping the future of education—and opening doors for entrepreneurs to lead the way.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #648 for Wednesday, May 14th, 2025
- May 14th: Root Canal Appreciation Day
- 00:02:24 Trade School as a recruiting tool.
- 00:07:37 SPONSOR: NordLayer – NordLayer is network security for modern businesses. Save up to 22% off NordLayer at NordLayer.com/brain and use code BRAIN for an extra 10% off.
- 00:09:14 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:45 Backdooring College Degree Requirements
- Excelsior College (online)
- High School Juniors working in the trades
- 00:21:35 Business Brain 648 Outtro
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In this FridAI episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into the evolving future of pay-per-click advertising in a world increasingly dominated by AI tools like ChatGPT, noting how AI is replacing traditional search behavior and potentially reshaping monetization models. They discuss Shannon’s creation of a custom GPT trained on his own content to produce more personalized, on-brand outputs, and encourage listeners to build their own. Dave explores the value of upgrading to ChatGPT’s $200/month plan, including business-ready Operator features and custom GPTs for specific workflows. They also highlight promising AI-driven business ideas—like ad pitch bots and sponsorship compliance tools—before wrapping with a nod to a compelling post from Fiverr’s CEO on AI and the future of work.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #647 for Casual Friday, May 9th, 2025
- May 9th: Tear The Tags Off The Mattress Day
- 00:01:54 n-ars56-v7v-What will happen to paid search ads now that we all use genAI?
- ChatGPT adding Shopify to chat
- 00:06:15 Create a GPT about you!
- “I want you to talk and think like I do. If I upload 100+ Word documents that I have written. Can you create a GPT and analyze what I have?”
- 00:09:35 SPONSOR: Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/brain #squarepod #ad
- 00:11:10 SPONSOR: SoundSource gives you app-level audio effects and controls for any app on your Mac! Visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20.
- 00:12:30 Upgrading ChatGPT
- “Given what you know about me, please give me your top 5 examples of why I would want to upgrade to the $200/month ChatGPT account. Prioritize them bringing me short-term value.”
- “It seems like we might be missing something that could truly be its own business using ChatGPT Operators. Ideas?”
- 00:15:03 Fiverr CEO on AI
- 00:16:52 Business Brain 647 Outtro
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The post FridAI – ShannonGPT + Shopify – Business Brain 647 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into the value of creating a “working agreement” before starting any business partnership. They discuss how this simple, non-binding document can clarify roles, expectations, and accountability—helping partners avoid misunderstandings and preserving friendships if things don’t work out. Framed as the first true project partners tackle together, the agreement surfaces potential red flags early. Alongside this main topic, they share practical tips for product listings and legal negotiations, and reflect on homebrewing beer as both a bonding experience and an example of smart marketing.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #646 for Wednesday, May 7th, 2025
- 00:01:17 May 7th: National Homebrew Day
- Mr. Beer
- Untappd
- Pinter
- Quick Tips
- 00:05:39 Mix in client reviews and testimonials with your photos
- 00:07:04 When negotiating a large transaction using attorneys, make a prediction up front
- “Presuasion”
- 00:10:23 SPONSOR: Square. Get up to $200 off Square hardware when you sign up at square.com/go/brain #squarepod #ad
- 00:11:58 SPONSOR: SoundSource gives you app-level audio effects and controls for any app on your Mac! Visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20.
- 00:13:17 Working Agreement
- It’s a test!
- The Friendship Clause
- Heavy equipment business for toddlers!
- 00:20:14 Business Brain 646 Outtro
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The post The Agreement that Saves Partnerships – Business Brain 646 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into a mix of tech, strategy, and entrepreneurship insights. They discuss the mental exhaustion of constant video calls, particularly the unnatural experience of seeing oneself too often on Zoom.
They explore the idea that strategy is about choosing what not to do, referencing Steve Jobs’ approach at Apple and emphasizing the power of saying no to maintain focus and effectiveness. Shannon and Dave reflect on how early-stage entrepreneurs often say yes to everything out of necessity, but that maturing businesses must learn to prioritize.
They transition into how ChatGPT helps overcome decision paralysis and speeds up problem-solving, from renaming podcasts to fixing irrigation issues. Shannon shares how ChatGPT accurately diagnosed a sprinkler issue in seconds—something that would’ve taken hours or days otherwise. Both hosts agree that ChatGPT has become significantly more reliable, especially for tech support, but still has limitations and occasional false promises (like pretending it can generate Canva links).
Shannon introduces a new tool, typeset.com, for creating professional e-books and presentations. He used it with ChatGPT to develop a lead magnet for a client and found it valuable for enhancing visual content. They close by inviting listeners to share their favorite AI tools and reminding them to leave a review for a chance to win a MacBook.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #645 for Casual Friday, May 2nd, 2025
- May 2nd: International Scurvy Awareness Day (also National Truffle Day?)
- 00:01:33 Watching ourselves on our own screens is distracting
- 00:05:35 Strategy is choosing what NOT to do
- Guy Kawasaki with Debbie Millman
- 00:09:37 SPONSOR: Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code “brain”, available for the first 30 purchases only.
- 00:11:27 Using ChatGPT to rename Mac Geek Gab
- From “Mac Geek Gab — Your Questions Answered, Tips Shared, Troubleshooting Assistance” to “Mac Geek Gab — Apple Tips, Tricks, and Troubleshooting”
- 00:13:25 Using ChatGPT for tech support can be great
- 00:17:00 But it also lies…
- 00:18:16 Typeset.com
- 00:20:25 Business Brain 645 Outtro
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The post Strategy is Choosing What Not to Do + FridAI – Business Brain 645 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss how traits associated with ADHD—like jumping between ideas, hyper-focus, and high risk tolerance—can actually serve as superpowers for entrepreneurs.
They share personal experiences, acknowledge their unofficial ADHD diagnoses, and talk about learning to manage it through strategies like using ChatGPT, listening to music, or delegating tasks they’re not strong at, like accounting.
Shannon emphasizes that ADHD traits such as creativity, rapid idea connection, and risk tolerance can fuel innovation and success. Dave stresses the importance of learning to live with oneself and leveraging hyper-focus intentionally.
They also highlight the downside of imposter syndrome, arguing that true imposters don’t experience it—only the self-aware do. The show ends with a conversation about the power of quiet confidence in business, the downside of trying too hard or appearing desperate, and the value of letting results speak for themselves.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #644 for Wednesday, April 30th, 2025
- April 30th: International Jazz Day
- 00:01:30 Shannon uses Insta360’s webcam
- 00:01:58 Leveraging your ADHD superpowers
- Hyperfocus
- Distractibility
- Reality Distortion (in a positive way)
- Pomodoro Method on Business Brain
- 00:13:27 SPONSOR: Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your X5 purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code “brain”, available for the first 30 purchases only.
- 00:15:16 The act of trying too hard is a sign of weakness
- The real imposters never experience the syndrome
- Quiet confidence vs. cockiness
- 00:19:33 Business Brain 644 Outtro
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The post Leveraging your ADHD Superpower – Business Brain 644 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton shares a story about a $36,000 IRS refund check he mailed to his bank, which never arrived. After frustrating interactions with Citibank and the IRS, he turned to ChatGPT for help. ChatGPT guided him to use the IRS Practitioner Priority Line and the Taxpayer Advocate Service, ultimately helping him start a trace on the missing check—something that could have taken months longer without AI’s assistance. Dave emphasizes how AI can dramatically improve efficiency and help with bureaucratic challenges.
Shannon Jean then shares a concept called the “third door”—a strategy for building relationships with key people before you need them. He recounts how he used LinkedIn to connect with eBay and Poshmark executives, establishing trust over time. These early, genuine connections later opened doors to speaking opportunities and support when problems arose. He encourages listeners to build relationships early by offering value and engaging authentically, without immediately asking for favors.
The episode also includes sponsor messages for Shopify and Insta360 and wraps with a call for listeners to connect on LinkedIn and share their own “third door” stories. The overarching message: use smart tools like AI and strategic relationship-building to live a more successful, charmed entrepreneurial life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #643 for Casual Friday, April 25th, 2025
- April 25th: International Financial Independence Awareness Day
- FridAI
- 00:01:07 ChatGPT Taught me How to Solve my Problem Calling the IRS
- 00:11:09 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:41 SPONSOR: Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code “brain”, available for the first 30 purchases only.
- 00:14:11 Find the Third Door
- Rebecca Michals, eBay Director of Community on Business Brain
- 00:21:39 If You Want More, Do More
- 00:23:12 Business Brain 643 Outtro
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The post FridAI + The 3rd Door – Business Brain 643 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon introduces a new concept called the 20-80 Rule, a twist on the traditional 80/20 principle. His version suggests that investing two years of hard work upfront—building systems, making mistakes, and laying a solid foundation—can result in eight years of sustained revenue and business growth. He emphasizes patience, long-term thinking, and warns against the illusion of quick success.
Dave reinforces this idea with a story about launching Mac Observer in 1998, explaining how it took nearly two years to become sustainable, and highlighting the importance of building strong systems early to support future growth.
The hosts also dive into the idea of “coopetition”—collaborating with competitors to create mutually beneficial opportunities. Dave shares how BackBeat Media was born after competitors asked for help with hosting and ad sales. Shannon echoes the sentiment, recalling how sharing large product deals early in his career led to reciprocal opportunities down the line.
They criticize the scarcity mindset and the tendency of some business owners to guard information out of fear, arguing that execution and collaboration matter far more than secrecy. The episode closes with encouragement to share ideas, build in public, and seek partnerships instead of isolation.
Listeners are invited to share their thoughts on the 20-80 Rule and coopetition at feedback@businessbrain.show.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #642 for Wednesday, April 23rd, 2025
- April 23rd: National Email Day
- 00:01:21 The 20/80 Rule
- 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:08 SPONSOR: Insta360 X5 Camera. To bag a free invisible selfie stick worth US$24.99 with your purchase, head to store.insta360.com and use the promo code “brain”, available for the first 30 purchases only.
- 00:12:40 Prioritize Coopetition
- The pie is infinite!
- Apple SuperDrive
- 00:24:00 Business Brain 642 Outtro
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The post The 20/80 Opportunity – Business Brain 642 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
An AI update from the hosts of the Business Brain podcast. Two powerful prompts to keep you from being left behind and a prompt to analyze your blind spots. Join us!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #641 for Casual Friday, April 18th, 2025
- April 18th: Lineman Appreciation Day
- 00:02:34 America Turner-Use AI to help you learn to use AI
- “I work in [insert your field]. I’ve made a career as a [insert your job title]. How will AI disrupt my progress, and what skills will it replace?”, then…
- “What can I do in the next 6, 12, or 18 months to use AI to grow my career?”
- 00:05:49 AI Voice is Patient
- 00:08:39 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
- 00:09:44 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:57 ChatGPT now lets you reference chat histories
- “Now that you can remember everything I’ve ever typed here, point out my top five blind spots.”
- Die With Zero
- 00:22:23 Business Brain 641 Outtro
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The post FridAI – Prompts and Blind Spots – Business Brain 641 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Colin Rutherford joins the Business Brain podcast to share his entrepreneurial journey. Starting as a Division I hockey player at Dartmouth, he launched Greenbox Storage, a summer storage service for college students. Despite balancing 30 hours a week of hockey and Ivy League academics, he learned critical time management skills and grew the business to 23 schools. He discusses the challenges of scaling too fast—tripling branches in a year led to losses at multiple locations, teaching him the importance of measured growth and profit focus.
Colin also talks about going viral on X with a post that reached 62 million views, which helped him monetize and gain visibility. He emphasizes consistency, experimentation, and borrowing proven strategies from others as keys to growing on social media. He’s posted over 18,000 times and follows a strategy influenced by Justin Welsh’s content model.
Colin now runs Greenbox Storage and Founder Brands, a digital marketing and personal branding agency helping entrepreneurs grow their online influence. He highlights the importance of building a great remote team and using tools like Google Workspace, Slack, and AI to manage content and operations. He credits his parents for instilling discipline and drive and leaves listeners with advice: start before you’re ready, learn by doing, and surround yourself with smart people to scale successfully.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #640 for Wednesday, April 16th, 2025
- April 16th: Wear Pajamas To Work Day
- 00:01:31 Guest Co-host Collin Rutherford from Business Blitz Podcast
- Being monetized on X
- Recruited to play D1 Hockey at Dartmouth
- Started Greenbox Storage in Dartmouth
- 00:04:42 Time Management running a business while being a D1 athlete
- 00:07:14 Selling a portion of your business to bring on a partner
- 00:08:46 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
- 00:09:51 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:04 Shannon’s best practices means… copying Collin!
- 00:11:54 Social media: post content that attracts the algorithm, then people will see your valuable content
- “I’m not that smart, guys.”
- Justin Welsh’s Content Flywheel on X
- When is it time to pivot and try something different?
- 00:14:49 It’s important to make mistakes
- 00:15:11 Grew from 6 branches to 18 branches in one year
- We didn’t have any understanding how to find good schools
- 00:16:41 Unpacking the mindset of success
- The never-ending pursuit of personal growth
- 00:20:08 Starting FounderBrands
- 00:21:17 Tools to use
- Google Workspace
- Slack
- 00:23:15 Have a great team
- To Scale a business, you have to put the right people in the right places
- 00:24:51 Business Brain 640 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- Follow Collin_Ruth89 on X
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The post Collin Rutherford of Founder Brands – Business Brain 640 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave and Shannon kick off the episode reflecting on the importance of mindset and self-talk. Dave shares a recent insight: instead of saying “I wish I had known that,” he shifted to “I’m glad I know that now,” which they agree is a powerful mental reframe. They talk about how this kind of positive self-programming builds confidence and impacts relationships with others in business, including employees and vendors.
They also discuss how language affects perception, both internally and externally. Shannon gives an example of reframing a client’s negative self-talk about having a “chaotic mind” into something more empowering like having a “curious mind.”
The conversation transitions into their regular Friday AI segment, highlighting the new ChatGPT 4.0 image feature. Shannon explains how he used it to create designs by uploading sketches and guiding the model step-by-step. They both emphasize that AI should be used as a collaborator, not a creator, and talk about how it enables faster, cheaper iterations compared to hiring creatives for every small task.
They discuss the broader impact of AI tools, comparing it to the industrial revolution and the evolution of tech jobs, stressing the importance of adapting. Shannon shares a story about a technician who refused to learn new skills and eventually became obsolete. Dave adds that mastering AI is about staying competitive.
They wrap up with a listener email from a programmer praising ClaudeCode for its ability to understand full codebases, calling it a game-changer. Shannon shares how he’s building a time-saving app for his mastermind group using AI—a project that would have been too costly and time-consuming in the past. Dave introduces the concept of “vibe coding”—collaborating with AI to build ideas iteratively.
They close the episode urging listeners to embrace AI, experiment with it, and share their experiences. Listeners are encouraged to leave reviews for a chance to win a MacBook Air.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #639 for Casual Friday, April 11th, 2025
- April 11th: National Pet Day
- 00:01:10 The value of “I wish I knew that before” vs. “I’m glad I know that now.”
- 00:03:41 “Thank you for your patience” instead of “I’m sorry” from Business Brain 555
- 00:05:40 Everyone’s a Customer
- 00:06:20 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:07:36 BB Review-Ian in KY
- Simon Wardley Matrix
- 00:09:11 ChatGPT 4o adds a new image engine
- 00:16:05 Bill-Claude Code is the best LLM for Coding
- Vibe Coding
- 00:21:03 Business Brain 639 Outtro
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The post The Positive Learning Framework + FridAI – Business Brain 639 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean kick things off with a humorous nod to International ASMR Day before diving into key business tips. Dave shares insights from the Podcast Movement Evolutions conference, emphasizing the importance of identifying where your industry engages online—like how the podcast ad industry is active on LinkedIn. By interacting there for just 30 minutes a day, he significantly boosted connections and created new business opportunities.
They also stress the value of joining conversations without immediately pitching—just genuinely engaging first. Tools like Seamless.ai are recommended for finding email contacts when LinkedIn messages don’t get responses.
Another pro tip: pass on credit card fees (3%) to customers in B2B settings. Dave reports zero pushback when doing so and shares how credit card reward points made such fees worth paying in his own car purchase experience.
The show wraps with a powerful conversation about imposter syndrome. Shannon recounts chatting with a billionaire who admired Shannon’s freedom-focused “lifestyle business.” This conversation reminded both hosts (and listeners) that success is subjective—wealth isn’t just about money but also about time, freedom, and joy. The key takeaway: compare yourself only to your past self, not others.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #638 for Wednesday, April 9th, 2025
- 00:01:17 April 9th: International ASMR Day
- 00:02:04 LinkedIn…Find where your industry is!
- Seamless.ai
- 00:08:57 Tip: Add 3% for all credit card transactions.
- 00:12:22 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:13:37 BB Review Mar 9 2025
- 00:14:48 Pro Tip: Share your story with a billionaire and then listen and watch.
- 00:19:46 Imposter Syndrome
- 00:21:29 Business Brain 638 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon discuss the “consulting trap”—the cycle where coaches or consultants trade time for money and get hooked on the immediate gratification of helping people, like feeling like Superman. Dave shares his own experience getting stuck in it and warns that it’s not scalable. Shannon agrees, saying he’s early in his coaching business and is already feeling the limits of one-on-one work. He’s working on solving this by automating, hiring help, building curriculum, creating group programs, and selling digital products. He started by offering free coaching to test the waters and quickly saw demand. They talk about how rewarding it is emotionally but emphasize the need to systematize the business to avoid burnout and maximize impact without tying everything to hours worked.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #637 for Casual Friday, April 4th, 2025
- April 4th: National Walk to Work Day
- 00:01:20 The Consulting Trap
- 00:06:15 Productize Your Knowledge
- 00:07:40 Build Curriculum
- Gumroad
- 00:12:06 Beware the Superman Effect
- 00:14:13 Start…and Learn!
- But beware the Superman effect
- 00:19:03 Business Brain 637 Outtro
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean open the episode with a light chat about peanut butter and jelly sandwiches. Dave then shares insights from attending South by Southwest (SXSW), focusing on a documentary called Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror. Initially intending to cover it for his music podcast, Dave realizes the documentary offers a deeper business lesson.
The film covers how Rocky Horror started as a stage musical in London, became popular, moved to L.A., and was eventually turned into a low-budget movie. It initially flopped, but the creators noticed college students were the ones staying to watch. Instead of giving up, they pivoted to midnight showings and built an audience, which turned it into the longest-running movie ever.
The main business takeaway: own your content. Richard O’Brien, who wrote and starred in the musical, was advised not to sell the rights. That ownership turned into a valuable long-term annuity, with the Rocky Horror franchise eventually earning an estimated $500 million through box office, merchandise, licensing, and more.
They end by emphasizing that audiences create cults—not producers—and reiterate the importance of retaining ownership of your creations. Shannon also teases a story about a billionaire conversation for a future episode.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #636 for Wednesday, April 2nd, 2025
- 00:01:00 April 2nd: National Peanut Butter & Jelly Day
- 00:03:43 Review Strange Journey: The Story of Rocky Horror (from SXSW)
- 00:17:06 John Fogerty @ SXSW
- 00:18:33 Business Brain 636 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean celebrate National Hot Tub Day by discussing how hot tubs help them decompress and unplug. They transition into AI and automation, sharing practical Gmail tips—like using built-in templates for quick replies and the “+” email trick for tracking sign-ups and spam.
They discuss the benefits of small automations, like smart lighting and motion-activated garage lights, which save time and mental energy. Shannon emphasizes using tools like Calendly to automate appointments and streamline client interactions, even incorporating automated sequences for paid consulting calls. Dave encourages listeners to start automating simple tasks and scale up, using tools like ChatGPT for guidance.
They wrap up by urging listeners to think constantly about what they can automate to reclaim time and focus, promising more tips in future episodes and inviting feedback and automation ideas from their audience.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #635 for Casual Friday, March 28th, 2025
- 00:01:07 March 28th: National Hot Tub Day
- 00:02:25 More Gmail Tips
- Gmail Templates
- Plus Addressing
- 00:07:41 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:08:53 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:10:31 KDU472-BB Review
- 00:12:23 FridAI: Automate Everything (your lights, your workflows, everything)
- 00:15:34 Using Calendly to automate appointments on your calendar (use different types of calls!)
- 00:19:28 Business Brain 635 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean open episode 634 of the Business Brain podcast by sharing personal updates and diving into a frustrating customer service story from Shannon. He explains his negative experience with Bluehost, a company he used for domain management. After being hacked and receiving poor support with constant upselling, he moved his sites elsewhere but left domains with Bluehost, which later caused major DNS issues. Bluehost reset his DNS records after ending his hosting plan, leaving his business offline for days and requiring a tedious domain transfer process. Dave empathizes and recommends Cloudflare as a better DNS and registrar solution.
The conversation transitions into a key business principle: everyone is a customer — not just those who buy from you. They emphasize that employees, suppliers, vendors, attorneys, accountants, and delivery drivers should all be treated with the same attention and care as paying customers. Building good relationships and being kind leads to better service, loyalty, and faster support when needed. Shannon encourages business owners to show appreciation, stay in regular communication, and make positive impacts on everyone around them. They close by urging listeners to adopt this mindset and share their experiences.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #634 for Wednesday, March 26th, 2025
- March 26th: Live Long and Prosper Day
- 00:01:11 First official Shannon Wears Shorts day of 2025
- 00:01:37 The Worst Customer Service Experience
- Bluehost
- Eversite
- 00:08:22 Dave’s advice: Use Cloudflare Domain Registrar
- 00:10:23 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:35 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:13:14 Everyone Is a Customer
- Your Employees
- Your Suppliers
- Your Vendors
- Even Your Attorneys
- And, of course, your Customers (aka the people who spend money with you)
- This is an attention game
- 00:21:12 Teach your employees this concept, too
- 00:22:14 Business Brain 634 Outtro
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Business Brain episode 633 celebrates Twitter Day and discusses Blue Sky, a decentralized social network originally started as a project within Twitter by Jack Dorsey and now run by Jay Graber.
The show then moves to AI topics, emphasizing that people won’t be replaced by AI but by people who use AI. They discuss how AI has enhanced their workflow, especially with creating podcast images and using tools like Zoom’s AI summaries to generate meeting action items automatically. They also compare ChatGPT with Perplexity, noting Perplexity’s more detailed, direct answers.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #633 for Casual Friday, March 21st, 2025
- March 21st: Twitter Day (also National Common Courtesy Day)
- 00:01:07 Lessons from Bluesky’s Jay Graber SXSW Keynote
- 00:11:07 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
- 00:12:32 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:49 FridAI, the weekly AI segment
- 00:17:03 Zoom AI
- 00:20:25 Perplexity vs. ChatGPT
- 00:23:36 Business Brain 633 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean reflect on the unpredictable yet inspiring nature of South by Southwest and dive into two key business lessons: first, that customers today often expect to be disappointed — creating a powerful opportunity for businesses to stand out by exceeding expectations with clear communication, fast responses, and proactive service; and second, the surprising value of sabbaticals, where intentional, long-term breaks not only refresh individuals but also strengthen businesses by forcing better systems and planning.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #632 for Wednesday, March 19th, 2025
- March 19th: Small Business Development Centers Day (also International Client’s Day)
- 00:01:09 SXSW Platinum Pass seems purpose-built for Dave
- 00:03:18 Customers are expecting to be disappointed.
- Opportunity: Delightfully surprise your customers!
- How much would you pay to get that negative review removed?
- 00:08:50 SPONSOR: SelectQuote — Get the right life insurance for YOU, for LESS, at selectquote.com/businessbrain.
- 00:10:13 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:31 Navigating Sabbaticals and Career Breaks — SXSW Session with Happiness Lab and DJ DiDonna
- The Power of Planning Your Future Sabbatical
- 00:25:12 Business Brain 632 Outtro
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The post Your Customers are Expecting to be Disappointed – Business Brain 632 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Business Brain Podcast Episode 631 explores AI applications in business and content creation. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss a listener’s idea to create a custom AI by uploading user manuals of all owned devices into ChatGPT, effectively turning it into a personal tech support assistant. They extend this concept to businesses, suggesting that customer service departments upload historical support tickets to train AI models, instantly improving response accuracy.
The conversation shifts to AI’s potential for content creators. Shannon considers uploading his entire written content library to an AI model for repurposing and reformatting. Dave envisions an AI tool that can be trained on personal email archives for more context-aware assistance, speculating that Google’s Gemini may soon provide such a feature.
Shannon introduces Google’s Notebook LM, an AI tool that converts written content into natural-sounding audio discussions. He explains how he uploaded a 250-page book, and the AI generated an 18-minute conversation summarizing its key points. This feature enables businesses to transform white papers, blog posts, and other text-based content into audio for easier consumption. They compare it to ChatGPT’s voice mode but highlight its passive listening benefits.
Dave shares an insight from using ChatGPT’s voice feature, emphasizing the value of delayed responses. Unlike human conversations, AI waits indefinitely, allowing users to think through responses without pressure. He notes how this improves interactions and creativity.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #631 for Casual Friday, March 14th, 2025
- March 14th: Pi Day (also National Legal Assistance Day)
- 00:01:07 Using AI as tech support by uploading your user manuals
- 00:05:49 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:07:26 Revisiting NotebookLM
- 00:12:43 Chatting with ChatGPT…don’t worry if you take some time to reply!
- 00:15:27 Be Polite…and considerate!
- 00:16:00 Business Brain 631 Outtro
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The episode of Business Brain features Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discussing productivity, mindset, and business strategies. They open with lighthearted Hitchcock-related jokes and discuss the unpredictable nature of the South by Southwest conference. The main discussion revolves around productivity methods, particularly the concept of a “reverse to-do list” or “to-did list,” where one focuses on what has been accomplished rather than what still needs to be done. Shannon shares his preference for using reminders instead of traditional to-do lists, explaining how he frames tasks as things he wants to do rather than has to do, which keeps him motivated.
They also discuss the power of storytelling in business and personal life, emphasizing that people are naturally interested in everyday experiences. Shannon recalls a successful newsletter he wrote that started with a humorous personal anecdote, demonstrating how relatable stories can engage audiences. Dave notes that while people often downplay their own experiences, they eagerly consume mundane details from others, as seen in social media.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #630 for Wednesday, March 12th, 2025
- March 12th: National Alfred Hitchcock Day
- 00:03:06 Michelle Penczak’s Reverse To-Do List
- 00:09:23 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:00 Discounting Your Own Experiences
- 00:15:39 Business Brain 630 Outtro
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Business Brain Podcast Episode 629 discusses the role of AI in learning, business, and social media strategy. The hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, address an email from a listener who limits their child’s AI use to encourage independent problem-solving. They compare this to past educational resistance to calculators and emphasize the importance of using AI as an assistant rather than a crutch. Dave shares a personal story about how using an early word processor for a school assignment led to a confrontation with a teacher, illustrating how technology adoption meets resistance before becoming standard practice.
Shannon shares a real-world example of using AI for business strategy. A client sought help refining their sales messaging. Shannon used Grok, X’s AI tool, to analyze the company’s social media presence and compare it with the salesperson’s posts. The AI identified a disconnect in messaging and highlighted areas for improvement. This allowed Shannon to provide detailed, data-driven feedback that led to an “aha” moment for the client.
The conversation expands into how AI can analyze successful and unsuccessful social media accounts in the same industry, providing actionable insights on engagement strategies. They discuss Grok’s ability to compare accounts and generate step-by-step plans for growth. Dave acknowledges that AI excels at processing vast amounts of data and summarizing key insights faster than humans.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #629 for Casual Friday, March 7th, 2025
- March 7th: National Employee Appreciation Day
- 00:01:05 JHonaFalculan-Coaching AI Use in Children
- 00:04:21 AI and the Classroom
- 00:08:28 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:10:06 Using Grok to Get Ready for a Client Meeting
- 00:18:21 Business Brain 629 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean dive into the challenges of balancing work and life, particularly in sales and leadership roles. They also discuss the risks of stepping away from a business while still retaining liability.
Key Takeaways:
The Dilemma of Instant Email Replies in Sales
Dave shares a real-life scenario where he responded to a client’s email over the weekend instead of waiting until Monday. They debate whether being always responsive is beneficial or if it creates an unhealthy work-life balance and unrealistic customer expectations. Shannon argues that in sales, responsiveness is crucial to success and one cannot always follow a strict work schedule. The hosts acknowledge that not all roles require 24/7 availability, and expectations should be set accordingly.
Training Employees for Responsiveness
They explore whether employees should be expected to reply instantly to emails outside work hours. Dave suggests that salespeople, in particular, must be available if they want to outperform competitors. They acknowledge that expecting constant availability could lead to burnout but recognize that customer perception matters in sales.
Should You Delay Sending Emails?
A LinkedIn user asks whether delaying email responses (e.g., scheduling them for the next morning) is a better approach. The hosts agree that for non-sales roles, delaying responses may help establish boundaries, but in sales, responding immediately often signals urgency and commitment.
The Risks of a Business Running Without You
They analyze a statement from entrepreneur Noel Halal, who argues that if a business runs entirely without its owner, it’s essentially a “silent sale” where the owner assumes all risks but sees no real reward. Dave and Shannon debate the idea, acknowledging that while delegation is essential for scaling, owners must maintain oversight to avoid financial or operational risks. They highlight the importance of structuring business ownership so that financial rewards offset the liability of stepping away.
Final Thoughts & Engagement
They encourage listeners to weigh the risks and rewards of stepping back from business operations. The hosts invite feedback from the audience on balancing business ownership and delegation. The episode concludes with a promotion for their MacBook giveaway for listeners who leave a review.
Conclusion:
The episode offers insightful perspectives on business growth, delegation, and responsiveness in sales. While being highly available benefits sales, it must be balanced with sustainability and realistic employee expectations. Additionally, business owners should carefully structure their roles to avoid assuming risks without proper compensation.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #628 for Wednesday, March 5th, 2025
- March 5th: National Stop Bad Service Day
- 00:01:51 Working weekends…triage vs. deep work; responsive vs. reactive. Employees?
- 00:09:35 SPONSOR: Rogue Amoeba Software makes some of the best Mac Audio software on the planet, and we couldn’t produce BB this way without it! Just visit MacAudio.com/Brain and use code BRAIN to save 20% on anything they make. Download free trials, then buy online to receive the discounted price.
- 00:11:11 Would Delay-sending that email help train everyone, including you?
- 00:13:46 Nahuel Hilal: Did you sell your business without getting paid?
- 00:20:33 Business Brain 628 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean reflect on the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, acknowledging the emotional rollercoaster that comes with running a business. They discuss the importance of resilience and how even seasoned entrepreneurs still experience moments of doubt, only to bounce back with new energy and perspective.
The main topic of the episode focuses on the risks of over-automation. Shannon shares his philosophy of manually doing a task before automating it to fully understand the process and add a personal touch—what he calls avoiding the loss of “Dave-ness.” Dave agrees, emphasizing that starting with a manual process allows businesses to iterate and refine their systems before automating them efficiently. They share real-world examples, including how Dave’s company initially managed podcast ad placements with spreadsheets before building a custom solution, and how Shannon believes hands-on experience in business operations prevents blind spots when scaling.
In their weekly FridAI segment, Shannon introduces Napkin.ai, a tool that extracts key insights from written content and automatically generates visually appealing charts and diagrams. Dave shares a personal story of using ChatGPT to decipher his illegible handwriting from a critical business call, highlighting the importance of interacting with AI as a collaborative tool rather than expecting perfect results on the first try.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #627 for Casual Friday, February 28th, 2025
- February 28th: National Chocolate Souffle Day
- 00:02:22 Beware of over-automating
- BackBeat Media’s PodMan
- Zapier
- Walter Bishop from Fringe said “posit”
- 00:11:58 FridAI: Napkin.AI
- 00:14:19 ChatGPT, I can’t read my own handwriting…can you help?
- Apple spending $500B on AI Servers
- 00:19:50 Business Brain 627 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss Levi Strauss and the origins of blue jeans, highlighting how the company pivoted from selling dry goods to revolutionizing durable workwear. They then shift to listener engagement, sharing an updated review from a long-time fan and announcing a MacBook giveaway for those who submit or update their podcast reviews.
The conversation then turns to a listener’s question about Google vs. Microsoft for business operations. Dave shares his preference for Google tools and LibreOffice over Microsoft, while Shannon desires to use both platforms less, preferring AI tools like ChatGPT and Perplexity for search. They also discuss the benefits of self-hosted cloud solutions like Synology Drive for better data control.
The episode’s main topic focuses on why many aspiring entrepreneurs give up after their first failure. Shannon emphasizes that business success is about averages and long-term profit rather than immediate wins. Dave reinforces that failure should be seen as a learning opportunity rather than an endpoint. They discuss how mindset plays a crucial role in entrepreneurial success, urging listeners to embrace adaptability and continuous learning instead of prematurely labeling efforts failures.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #626 for Wednesday, February 26th, 2025
- 00:01:21 February 26th: Levi Strauss Day
- 00:02:46 BB Review-2/24/2025
- 00:04:38 Patrick-Do you prefer Google or Microsoft platforms for your business?
- Google Workspace
- Microsoft Office
- LibreOffice
- Synology Drive
- Zoom
- 00:08:55 The Importance of not stopping after the first failure
- This business is about the averages…profit over time
- Business Brain 626 Outtro
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This episode of Business Brain explores strategies for innovation, marketing, and leveraging AI to optimize your business. Hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss how businesses can stay top-of-mind with partners by regularly reaching out with valuable updates. They introduce a new system for vetting podcast sponsors, ensuring that hosts are enthusiastic about the advertisers they promote.
A key theme is the challenge of proving advertising effectiveness. They discuss the strengths and limitations of direct response marketing, using examples like Valpak mailers and Shopify ad tracking. Instead of trying to create a superior alternative to direct response, they suggest focusing on an additive approach—introducing new, different tracking methods that complement existing strategies.
The conversation also touches on business innovation, emphasizing that new ideas don’t have to be better than existing solutions; they just need to be different and worth testing. Shannon shares an example from his Apple repair business, where they positioned their aftermarket glass screens as “diamond glass,” creating differentiation even though it wasn’t better than Apple’s.
The episode also covers AI adoption in business. Dave expresses frustration with people who resist AI tools despite their advantages. He shares a story about a colleague hesitant to use AI and contrasts it with his own workflow, where he effectively uses ChatGPT to research unknown topics. He stresses that avoiding AI gives competitors an advantage and that failure to adopt new technology can limit growth.
Shannon introduces his workflow challenge—wanting AI-generated summaries before creating podcast images. Dave suggests using FlowSend, an AI tool they already use for other shows, to streamline the process.
The episode concludes with a teaser for next week’s discussion on the dangers of stopping after the first failure. They highlight how people prematurely dismiss opportunities due to early setbacks and promise to explore strategies for overcoming this mindset.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #625 for Casual Friday, February 21st, 2025
- February 21st: National Sticky Bun Day
- 00:01:10 You don’t have to come up with something better… just different.
- 00:09:17 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:30 FridAI
- 00:10:49 Podcast workflow
- Flowsend
- 00:14:08 Helping people get over the AI hump
- Don’t stop after your first failure…next week!
- Business Brain 625 Outtro
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The episode celebrates the 10th anniversary of Business Brain and reflects on the challenges and lessons learned from a decade of podcasting. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean emphasize the importance of consistency, particularly in the face of life’s obstacles, and how having a co-host or accountability partner helps maintain momentum. They discuss how measuring success in podcasting can be challenging compared to other businesses with clearer metrics.
Dave shares a list of 10 lessons from his years in podcasting, including listening to one’s own show, maintaining a schedule, communicating effectively with co-hosts, ensuring sound quality, refining ad reads, and taking control of hosting and distribution. They also highlight the importance of promoting the show, handling criticism constructively, and evolving over time.
The conversation shifts to review, reflecting on the problematic nature of modern rating systems, where anything below a five-star rating is often perceived as a failure. Shannon shares a personal experience with a delivery service that explicitly directed customers to leave only a nine or ten, sparking a broader discussion about the value and reliability of ratings in various industries.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #624 for Wednesday, February 19th, 2025
- February 19th: National Prevent Plagiarism Day
- 00:01:21 Lessons from ten years of podcasting
- 00:11:36 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:51 BB Reviews-Feb 17, 2025
- 00:15:53 Linear vs. Logarithmic Review Scales
- TextExpander
- Grammarly
- 00:24:14 Business Brain 624 Outtro
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The post 10 Years of Business Brain – Episode 624 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean explore the power of AI tools in transforming how entrepreneurs analyze data and streamline decision-making. Shannon shares a fascinating story about using AI to assess and value items from a liquidation auction quickly, saving hours of manual research and enabling smarter bidding strategies. Dave and Shannon discuss the importance of leveraging AI as a collaborator to organize and enhance productivity without replacing personal creativity or voice.
The conversation also dives into working with remote teams, focusing on cultural nuances and the challenge of providing clear context for tasks. They share strategies for managing expectations, avoiding micromanagement, and creating accountability between employers and their teams.
Let me know if you’d like any edits or additions!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #623 for Casual Friday, February 14th, 2025
- February 14th: International Winter Bike To Work Day
- 00:01:09 FridAI: Use ChatGPT to analyze long documents (contracts, details, product manifests)
- 00:05:15 FridAI: Settings > Personalization > Customize ChatGPT
- “Respond with a precise, concise, and accurate tone. Focus on delivering clear and direct answers while avoiding unnecessary elaboration or repetition. Use structured formats such as bullet points, numbered lists, or short paragraphs where appropriate. Prioritize clarity and relevance, ensuring responses stay on-topic and align with the query’s intent. Tailor the explanation to be universally understandable, avoiding excessive jargon unless explicitly requested.Be opinionated and prepared to support your opinions: always state and make clear what statements are opinion and not objective fact.”
- 00:08:56 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:18 Business Therapy: Context as it relates to global talent
- Learn THEIR cultural norms
- 00:19:16 Business Brain 623 Outtro
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss tips and strategies to stay motivated as entrepreneurs and manage tasks, including “grunt work.” They share personal tactics like breaking tasks into smaller chunks, using dopamine rewards (e.g., taking breaks, engaging in enjoyable activities), and leveraging the fear of failure to push through unappealing tasks. They highlight the importance of maintaining momentum by celebrating small wins and integrating fun tasks into the workday.
They also explore the value of building a “talent stack” by listing personal achievements and using tools like ChatGPT to identify and articulate skills. This practice helps boost confidence, foster self-promotion, and create opportunities for further growth.
Additionally, the hosts touch on themes like humility and self-promotion, encouraging listeners to showcase their accomplishments in a way that builds credibility without arrogance. They share an anecdote about David Bowie advising someone to “always make your name as big as you can” to enhance visibility and success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #622 for Wednesday, February 12th, 2025
- February 12th: National Lost Penny Day
- 00:01:51 RobzillaH’s Business Brain Review – Feb 10, 2025
- 00:03:14 What tricks do you use to keep yourself inspired to do the grunt work necessary to run your businesses?
- The hunt for dopamine!
- The fear of failure vs. the fear of being a failure
- Rewarding yourself with a quick dopamine fix
- Doomscrolling for ten minutes
- Stacking work by sandwiching the grunt work between rewarding work
- 00:10:46 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:08 Humility vs. Negative Self-Deprecation
- Keanan Duffty on Gig Gab: “Always Make Your Name As Big As You Can”
- To make it easier to talk about yourself, ask the question: What have you done? AND WRITE IT DOWN, then you can read your talent stack back to yourself.
- Ask ChatGPT: “I need to create a list of my talent stack, but I’m not good at bragging. Can you create this list for me that we can collaborate on so that I can just have it and see it?”
- 00:22:31 Business Brain 622 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon talk about how the internet warps our sense of success. Shannon shares how getting 15 likes on a post feels like a failure online, but if 15 people came up to you after an in-person talk, you’d feel like a rockstar. They remind listeners not to get caught up in the numbers game and to appreciate real connections, even if it’s just one person being impacted by your work. Dave brings up how they used to feel that 3,000 podcast downloads a week wasn’t much until someone pointed out that it’s like filling a huge theater every week.
They also dive into a cool side hustle idea from Shannon’s friend, Chris. Chris uses OpenAI’s $200/month operator tool to automate reaching out to people giving away free pianos on Facebook Marketplace. Instead of just picking them up for free, he offers to haul them away for $200, solving a problem for people who just want them gone. The AI handles all the messaging, and Chris barely lifts a finger. This sparks a whole conversation about how AI can simplify tasks like managing social media, scheduling, and even bidding on auction items. Shannon imagines using AI to automatically find and bid on overstock gazebos for his vacation rental.
They wrap up by talking about how doing this podcast isn’t just about teaching others—it’s also their own weekly reminder to stay motivated and improve their businesses. Both admit they’re not perfect at everything they talk about, but these conversations help them grow. They encourage listeners to leave reviews and connect with them, reminding everyone that even small interactions matter.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #621 for Casual Friday, February 7th, 2025
- February 7th: National Working Naked Day
- 00:00:57 We get a warped perspective of being online
- Narada Michael Walden at NAMM
- Review Business Brain
- 00:09:42 FridAI – Your Weekly AI Segment
- ChatGPT Operator (for $200/month)
- An example of Operator in action
- What happens to companies like Zapier and IFTTT?
- 00:20:50 Building the RIGHT inner judge for yourself
- 00:23:07 Business Brain 621 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon kick things off with a fun nod to National Shower with a Friend Day. They chat about the show’s upcoming 10th anniversary on February 19th and brainstorm some celebration ideas, like giveaways for listeners who submit questions or leave reviews. They’re still deciding what the prize will be, but promise it’ll be something big.
The main focus of the episode is all about embracing change in business. Shannon shares a story about a client whose product suddenly became obsolete, highlighting the importance of adapting to stay ahead. They both emphasize that if you’re not actively evolving your business, you risk falling behind. Dave draws parallels to Apple’s strategy of making their own products obsolete to stay innovative.
They also discuss their own evolution with the podcast—from calling it DBA (Doing Business As) to shifting away from frequent interviews to keep things fresh. Dave mentions how he had to adjust when his co-host left another show he runs, choosing to do solo episodes rather than scrambling for guests.
The episode wraps up with practical advice on the importance of following up in business. Dave talks about using tools like SaneBox to manage email reminders and ensure nothing slips through the cracks. Shannon likes the idea and plans to try it out. They encourage listeners to share productivity tips and, of course, leave reviews to get in on the giveaway action.
Overall, it’s a laid-back, insightful episode focused on adapting to change, staying proactive in business, and keeping things exciting for both you and your audience.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #620 for Wednesday, February 5th, 2025
- February 5th: National Shower With a Friend Day
- 00:03:22 Change is the only constant
- “The more that things change, they more they stay the same.”
- Compete with yourself
- Feels Like The First Time…at NAMM (on Gig Gab)
- 00:14:49 Always Be Following Up
- SaneBox SaneRemindMe
- Slack Reminders
- 00:20:38 Business Brain 620 Outtro
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The post The Only Constant is Change – Business Brain 620 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Here’s a summary of the episode:
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the importance of understanding what you’re truly selling, beyond just the delivery mechanism. They explore how businesses often mistake their product or service for the actual value they provide, emphasizing that customers are really looking for transformation rather than just a transaction. Shannon shares insights from his coaching business, illustrating how people may come to him for guidance on selling liquidation goods but are actually seeking financial freedom, flexibility, and independence.
Dave and Shannon also highlight how this mindset shift impacts marketing, customer relationships, and business strategy. They touch on how companies like Apple focus on the experience and benefits rather than just technical specs, and how reframing a business around transformation can lead to stronger branding and deeper customer engagement.
The conversation transitions into the power of AI tools, specifically ChatGPT’s Canvas feature, which Dave recently used to draft an executive summary and set KPIs for his businesses. He explains how AI’s objectivity provided surprising insights and helped him see his business goals more clearly. Shannon experiments with it live, reinforcing the idea that AI is an essential tool for small business owners to stay competitive. The episode wraps up with a call to action for listeners to embrace AI tools and leverage them for business growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #619 for Casual Friday, January 31st, 2025
- January 31st: National Fun at Work Day
- 00:01:52 Don’t confuse what you’re selling with your delivery system
- Don’t be transactional, be transformational
- Learn how your customers perceive your business
- Helps you understand what your customers want
- Helps you pivot (if/when necessary)
- Helps you with your marketing
- Helps get your team behind your purpose
- 00:08:55 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:14 ChatGPT’s Canvas for your Executive Summary…and lots of other things!
- 00:21:00 Business Brain 619 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post Don’t Confuse the Delivery System with what You are Selling – Business Brain 619 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the power of free thinking and the cost of leading an uncommon life. They reflect on Dave’s experience at the NAMM conference, where a minor snub from an industry professional fueled his motivation to make a bigger impact. The conversation explores the concept of “coopetition”—collaborating with competitors for mutual growth—and how having a chip on your shoulder can drive success.
They then transition into a deeper discussion on economic cycles and business adaptability. Reflecting on past downturns (dot-com bust, 2008 recession, and COVID-19 disruptions), they highlight how advertising trends and market corrections impact business revenue. Shannon emphasizes the importance of being connected in the industry to recognize downturns early and act decisively.
Key takeaways include:
- Use setbacks as fuel for future success.
- Economic downturns are inevitable—prepare by diversifying income streams.
- Stay informed by networking within your industry.
- When business slows down, don’t panic—adapt.
- Signs of economic recovery are emerging, but strategic planning is essential.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #618 for Wednesday, January 29th, 2025
- 00:01:02 January 29th: Freethinkers Day
- 00:01:49 Putting a chip on your shoulder so you can WIN
- 00:09:03 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:22 Living Through Economic Cycles
- Peer groups are your friends
- Is your industry headed to commodity status?
- 00:19:13 Blaming yourself, if only to find a creative solution
- When it rains, fill up your buckets
- 00:24:03 Business Brain 618 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post Living Through Economic Cycles – Business Brain 618 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Business Brain episode 617, hosted by Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, covers insights on business growth, persistence, and the value of consistency.
Dave shares his experience attending the NAMM conference, a key event in the music industry, where he was invited as press due to his Gig Gab podcast. Reflecting on his journey, he emphasizes the concept of “overnight success,” taking ten years, underscoring the importance of long-term consistency in content creation. He compares this with the Business Brain podcast, which also started a decade ago, highlighting how both shows have evolved and gained industry credibility over time.
Shannon shares his own journey, crediting the podcast for helping him refine his ideas, become more comfortable discussing successes and failures, and ultimately transitioning into a content creator and business coach. He explains how consistently sharing content on X (Twitter) and experimenting with different revenue models—such as paid posts, subscriptions, digital guides, and coaching.
The discussion shifts to the power of persistence, with Shannon reflecting on a past million-dollar mistake that he once kept hidden due to shame but now uses as a learning experience for others. He highlights the importance of having the right support system, particularly his spouse, and how that helped him push forward. Both hosts discuss how consistency, data tracking, and treating content creation as a real business have contributed to their success.
The episode concludes with a teaser for next week’s discussion on differentiating between the product being sold and the delivery method used to reach customers. They encourage listeners to send feedback and leave reviews, reinforcing the value of audience engagement in their business strategy.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #617 for Casual Friday, January 24th, 2025
- January 24th: Macintosh Introduction Day
- Ten years to “overnight success”
- Bullheaded-persistence.
- Business Brain and Gig Gab
- 00:08:41 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:04 Things aren’t always as they seem
- Shame is a signal to talk MORE about it
- Shannon’s Assignment: One page per day…and you have to share it with someone
- 00:17:00 Starting a business isn’t about revenue…it’s about structure and practices
- Gumroad
- “If you’re not in the water, you’ll never catch the wave!”
- “Don’t call me lucky, I have failed more times than you have tried.”
- 00:25:04 Business Brain 617 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post The 10-Year Overnight Success – Business Brain 617 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Business Brain episode 616 covers a variety of topics related to business strategies, financial efficiency, and personal development. Hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss leveraging business expenses for tax benefits, particularly when planning trips. Dave mentions his travel plans to NAMM and Mexico as business-related deductions. Shannon shares how he and his wife booked a nearly free luxury vacation using reward points, emphasizing the importance of using credit card rewards strategically.
They dive into the concept of “riding the wave” in business, using Apple as an example of a company that overcame struggles to become dominant. They also discuss the dot-com boom and bust, explaining how understanding market fluctuations allows businesses to capitalize on downturns, such as acquiring liquidation inventory from failed companies.
Another key topic is the advantages of different life stages in business. They explore how youthful ambition attracts opportunities while experience and wisdom later in life provide credibility and strategic insight. They highlight the importance of adapting business strategies to one’s age and stage in life.
The episode concludes with a call for listener feedback, reviews, and engagement to help grow the Business Brain community.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #616 for Wednesday, January 22nd, 2025
- January 22nd: Answer Your Cat’s Questions Day
- 00:01:30 Planning your company’s annual meeting
- Annual meeting tax writeoff
- 00:02:50 Finding success riding the waves and trends
- Apple Death Knell Counter
- Dotcom boom…and dotcom bust!
- Webvan Auctions
- 00:12:33 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:13:54 Trip using points
- 705,000 Bonvoy Points
- 120,000 JetBlue Points
- $281.34 in cash
- Bonvoy AmEx
- 00:19:46 A question: Do you like spreadsheets?
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:21:07 Business Brain 616 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post Finding Waves to Ride – Business Brain 616 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Scott Jordan, co-founder of the apparel company SCOTTeVEST. Scott shares his journey from being a lawyer dissatisfied with corporate life to founding a successful travel clothing brand. He explains how he came up with the idea for SCOTTeVEST after struggling to carry various devices during his frequent travels in the late 1990s. Initially, he aimed to create a proof of concept for tech-enabled clothing, but after launching an e-commerce-enabled website for $700, SCOTTeVEST became one of the first clothing brands to sell online.
Scott describes his early ambitions for rapid growth, including attempts to scale the business to $50 million in revenue, but he later learned that focusing on profitability and sustainability was more important than aggressive expansion. He recounts how handing control over to someone else led to a significant financial loss, prompting a shift in mindset from growth-at-all-costs to survival and efficiency.
During the pandemic, Scott and his wife Laura restructured the company, eventually reducing the workforce to zero employees while maintaining profitability. He emphasizes the importance of running a lean business, focusing on quality, and avoiding the trap of pursuing unnecessary growth. He praises his wife’s dedication and credits her as the key factor in their continued success, noting how they complement each other’s skills in running the business.
Scott offers advice to entrepreneurs about focusing on fundamentals, maintaining profitability, and ignoring hype around competitors and rapid scaling. He stresses the value of lifestyle businesses and encourages listeners to build a business that supports the life they want to live rather than chasing unicorn status.
The episode wraps up with Scott recommending SCOTTeVEST’s popular travel vest and Q-Zip shirts. He advises listeners to focus on sustainable, profitable growth and avoid being distracted by competition or trends.
Press play and be sure you don’t miss a bit!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #615 for Casual Friday, January 17th, 2025
- January 17th: National Customer Service Day
- 00:00:42 Special Guest: Scott Jordan from SCOTTeVEST
- 00:01:41 Scott’s history
- Lawyers have Scarlet Ls on their foreheads
- Joined a startup: The Next 50 – A Portal for Seniors
- Shot Down Idea: get Rudy from Survivor to be a spokesperson
- Did we need the Enron Egg to power our cellphones back in 1999?
- Technology Enabled Clothing was the goal… SCOTTeVEST was the proof-of-concept to sell it
- 00:08:12 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:09:35 Growing a business…
- 00:11:52 $18MM in sales… gotta get to $50MM!
- And then we went backwards!
- 00:15:14 …and then shrinking it!
- We’ll figure it out!
- Changed focus from top line to bottom line
- I stopped doing anything that causes more friction
- 00:18:56 Lifestyle Business is a Good Thing!
- 00:20:34 SkypeGate
- 00:21:06 The reason this business is successful is because of my wife, Laura
- She loves solving puzzles
- 00:25:17 I don’t want to be a part of the wrong vision of success
- 00:27:53 SCOTTeVEST QZip Pullover Shirt
- 00:28:20 IP and competition aren’t as important as you think.
- Focus on the fundamentals
- Focus on making money every single day, not just Q4
- 00:29:35 Business Brain 615 Outtro
- Follow Scott Jordan from SCOTTeVEST
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The post Scott Jordan, Founder of SCOTTeVEST – Business Brain 615 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss Dave’s recent experience at CES 2025, including standout products and the importance of planning for trade shows. Dave highlights a notable $800 5K Thunderbolt display from ViewSonic, offering significant value compared to similar products from Apple and LG. Shannon emphasizes the value of exclusivity and rarity in products, sharing his past experience selling white iPhone case backs, which attracted high demand due to their uniqueness.
They transition into a discussion about how to introduce emotion, desire, status, and prestige into sales strategies. Shannon explains how selling luxury goods taught him to leverage exclusivity and scarcity, which drove up perceived value and pricing. They encourage listeners to identify products or services that can evoke desire or offer social validation, helping businesses stand out in competitive markets.
The episode also revisits the concept of the “Whistle, Workhorse, and Whale” strategy: the whistle attracts attention, the workhorse generates steady income, and the whale represents high-end, exclusive offerings that enhance brand image. They urge businesses to think creatively about how to incorporate prestige, exclusivity, or guarantees to add value and attract customers.
Press play and ensure you learn what you need in order to keep living that charmed life!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #614 for Wednesday, January 15th, 2025
- January 15th: National Bagel Day
- 00:02:02 CES 2025
- Hyper(/Targus) HyperPack Pro
- ViewSonic 27” 5K
- 00:07:09 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:08:32 Introducing Emotion and Desire for Everything You Sell
- Selling luxury goods has lessons that apply to other businesses
- Status and Prestige
- Exclusivity and Rarity
- Make Your Products Aspirational
- The whistle, the workhorse, and the whale
- 00:17:40 Business Brain 614 Outtro
- Friday: Scott Jordan from SCOTTeVEST
- Review Business Brain
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The post Using Emotion and Desire in Your Business – Business Brain 614 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the concept of “Quitter’s Day,” which falls on the second Friday of January and highlights the high rate of people abandoning their New Year’s resolutions by mid-January. They share personal experiences with social media experiments, where Dave posts identical content across various platforms, including X, Threads, Mastodon, and LinkedIn, to measure audience engagement and decide where to focus future efforts. Shannon emphasizes the importance of intentional platform growth, sharing how he grew his following on X from 500 to over 33,000 by consistently engaging and applying the 80-20 content rule—80% value-driven content and 20% fun or intriguing posts.
They also discuss platform-specific audiences, noting that different platforms cater to different demographics and engagement styles. Shannon explains his approach to managing content across platforms using an assistant, while Dave considers platform diversity for his various content topics—tech, business, and music. Both agree that it’s essential to grow one platform at a time to avoid being overwhelmed.
The discussion touches on using algorithms effectively by creating secondary anonymous accounts for experimentation and leveraging high-engagement posts, even on seemingly unrelated topics, to boost overall visibility. They conclude by highlighting the importance of adaptability in social media strategy and hint at upcoming topics for future episodes, including emotional triggers in sales and an interview with Scott Jordan of ScottyVest. The episode ends with a call to action for listeners to leave a review.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #613 for Casual Friday, January 10th, 2025
- January 10th: Quitters Day
- 00:01:42 Dave’s EVERY PLATFORM experiment
- Threads
- X.com
- Mastodon
- Bluesky
- 00:18:08 Social Media Growth 101
- Turn on notifications for larger accounts in your subject matter
- And then reply to get exposure
- 00:23:36 Business Brain 613 Outtro
- Next week: Scott Jordan from SCOTTeVEST
- Review Business Brain
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The post The Every Platform Experiment – Business Brain 613 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean kick off the new year with an insightful discussion on embracing chaos, managing schedules, and giving more compliments. Shannon shares two things he loves about the New Year: selling exercise equipment during peak season and setting resolutions, particularly focusing on giving intentional and authentic compliments. He notes how giving compliments, especially to men who are often under-complimented, can uplift and improve social interactions.
The conversation then shifts to managing chaos in personal and professional life. Dave describes his packed January schedule, balancing conferences, rehearsals, and travel while ensuring he stays productive and energized. He emphasizes the importance of mindset and planning to thrive in chaos rather than just survive it. Shannon shares a personal story about juggling tasks during a family vacation and how intentional planning leads to a sense of accomplishment.
They also highlight the role of having the right partner in life, calling the right spouse a “force multiplier” in managing chaotic schedules. Both stress the significance of shared family calendars and tools like Calendly to coordinate busy schedules and prevent burnout.
They wrap up by encouraging listeners to embrace chaos, give more compliments, and use effective tools for time management. Listeners are invited to leave reviews and keep living a “charmed life.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #612 for Wednesday, January 8th, 2025
- January 8th: National Snuggle a Chicken Day
- 00:01:39 Arbitrage on Exercise equipment
- 00:02:16 New Year’s Resolutions
- Give out more compliments
- Compliment actions as a default
- 00:07:30 Review Business Brain
- 00:08:12 Comfortable with Chaos
- 00:16:47 The Right Spouse is a Force Multiplier
- 00:19:44 Managing your Family Calendar
- Calendly
- 00:22:13 Business Brain 612 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
- Subscribe to the show
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
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The post Getting Comfortable with Chaos – Business Brain 612 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean welcome guest Noelle Hilal, owner of Iris Tattoo and Piercing. The discussion dives into the innovative approach Noelle has taken to redefine the tattoo industry, emphasizing customer experience, premium service, and top-tier talent management.
Noelle explains how Iris Tattoo was born out of the desire to improve the traditional tattoo shop experience, creating a boutique-style environment often likened to an “Apple store” for tattoos. The studio prioritizes customer service, offering curated experiences that include amenities like beverages, concierge service, and high levels of communication. Iris charges a premium—sometimes four times standard rates—but ensures unmatched quality and comfort.
The conversation also highlights Noelle’s approach to managing talent, treating tattoo artists as “internal clients” and providing stability to attract and retain top talent. While the artists are independent contractors, Noelle fosters loyalty through robust support systems, training, and ensuring their focus remains on their craft.
Noelle shares challenges, including a difficult partnership breakup, and emphasizes the importance of complementary skills in business relationships. He also discusses plans to expand Iris Tattoo into new markets, choosing locations like Nashville based on gut instincts and market potential.
The hosts and Noelle reflect on the entrepreneurial journey, the loneliness it can bring, and the importance of community and support networks like the Business Brain podcast. The episode concludes with encouragement for listeners to pursue their dreams in 2025, emphasizing connection and growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #611 for Wednesday, January 1st, 2025
- January 1st: Copyright Law Day
- 00:02:41 Special Guest: Nahuel Hilal from Iris Tattoo
- Curating the experience
- 00:05:33 Making a tattoo shop look like…an Apple Store?
- 00:06:08 The price needs to be more expensive…like 4x.
- 00:07:18 Artists are my talent…and therefore they’re my internal customers
- 00:07:59 We are “a Bridge”?
- 00:08:19 Attracting and retaining talent
- Stability is the most valuable thing
- 00:09:29 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:11:17 Sounds like running a band
- 00:13:42 We treat every customer like it’s their birthday
- 00:14:59 Minimizing Unhappy Customers
- The Two Tokens of Customer Service
- Magic phrases
- “Don’t worry, it’s only permanent.”
- “Tattoos are like children…they’re not going to come out the way you thought, and you’re going to love them anyway.”
- “We own our mistakes.”
- 00:17:28 Messi’s number is… 01?
- 00:19:44 Finding the next
- 00:22:20 Partnership Breakups
- Partnerships Can Kill You
- The best partners cover your blindspots
- 00:26:12 The ideal Business Brain listener
- 00:28:28 Business Brain 611 Outtro
- Follow Nahuel Hilal from Iris Tattoo
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share insights and stories, kicking off with holiday greetings and their sponsor, LegalZoom, which simplifies business setup. They discuss the value of LegalZoom for cost-effective business needs and transition to a casual “grab bag” discussion.
Dave and Shannon explore their recent experiences with car buying, including strategies to save money, using networks for discounts, and leveraging AI tools like ChatGPT to compare vehicle options. They highlight how networks and AI can assist in decision-making and negotiations. They also touch on using credit management strategies, such as freezing and unfreezing credit to enhance security for business owners.
Shannon shares a story about receiving supplier discounts through social media connections, emphasizing the power of networking. Dave reflects on lessons learned about dealer pricing and the benefits of financing for discounts during the pandemic. They also discuss the value of understanding dealership incentives like holdbacks and bonuses.
They highlight the peculiar productivity of the holiday period between Christmas and New Year’s, noting how fewer external demands allow for personal projects, reflection, and productivity. The episode closes with reflections on the year, appreciation for listeners, and holiday wishes, promising an exciting 2025 for Business Brain.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #610 for Wednesday, December 25th, 2024
- December 25th: National Pumpkin Pie Day
- 00:01:45 This is a good week to buy a new car!
- 00:05:21 Using the power of your network to help with big purchase decisions
- 00:08:15 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:10:25 Use ChatGPT to tell you about how car dealerships work
- Keep your credit frozen
- Freeze Experian
- Freeze TransUnion
- Freeze Equifax
- Keep your credit frozen
- 00:18:53 Find time to be productive!
- 00:20:46 Business Brain 610 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss a range of topics, emphasizing the importance of creativity, adaptability, and breaking conventional rules in business and life. They highlight tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly, showcasing how AI can enhance productivity, creativity, and problem-solving. The conversation touches on using AI for brainstorming, tech support, and exploring innovative ways to simplify tasks.
They also dive into the concept of challenging traditional rules, sharing anecdotes about questioning societal and business “guardrails” that often hinder creativity or progress. Shannon reflects on his upbringing, where his parents instilled the idea that “reality is flexible,” encouraging confidence and rule-breaking as a path to success. Both agree that many rules are either arbitrary or created to maintain control, encouraging listeners to find ways to navigate or challenge these barriers.
The hosts also discuss leveraging tax laws and compliance rules creatively, underscoring the importance of staying informed and consulting experts to make the most of existing systems. They highlight the value of experimentation and not letting fear of failure or rigid mindsets prevent action.
The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to share feedback on what they’ve learned throughout the year and what they’d like to explore in the future, reinforcing the show’s mission of helping others live “charmed lives.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #609 for Casual Friday, December 20th, 2024
- December 20th: Ugly Christmas Sweater Day
- 00:01:16 DLH-ChatGPT accepts (and successfully-parses) screenshots, you know.
- 00:05:07 Grammarly acquires Coda
- 00:07:19 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:08:45 Breaking the rules
- Avoid the guardrails
- 00:12:30 “Reality is flexible” – Shannon’s mom
- 00:17:53 Business Brain 609 Outtro
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Dave and Shannon discuss the relevance of business cards in today’s world, emphasizing creative and practical ways to make them valuable. Shannon suggests using unique designs and multi-purpose formats, such as including discount coupons or magnetic versions for placement in strategic locations like break rooms. Dave highlights the convenience of having essential details on cards for conferences and trade shows, underscoring their usefulness in building connections.
The hosts pivot to the importance of taking immediate action rather than delaying plans, especially as the year winds down. They share personal anecdotes and strategies for staying productive, such as working at night, utilizing downtime like TV-watching for brainstorming, and consistently achieving small goals daily. Shannon encourages writing one page daily and sharing it to build accountability and momentum. Both emphasize that consistent, incremental progress is key to entrepreneurial success.
They conclude by inviting listeners to share their productivity tips and leave reviews, stressing the importance of community feedback in growing their podcast.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #608 for Wednesday, December 18th, 2024
- December 18th: Answer the Telephone Like Buddy The Elf Day
- 00:01:27 Beware the weather
- 00:03:02 Do you still need business cards?
- Idea: make it a calling card
- They’ve gotta have a little THWACK!
- 00:10:41 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:12:44 Don’t wait to take action
- Do it now!
- 00:15:02 Being intentional during TV Time
- The charmed life is the uncommon life
- 00:20:49 Business Brain 608 Outtro
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the value of fostering community, gaining insights from team members, and continuously experimenting to improve business operations in episode 607 of Business Brain. They begin with lighthearted banter about National Ice Cream Day and share listener reviews and feedback, highlighting the power of community and networking. They recount a listener’s positive experience hiring a guest from a past episode, which inspires a discussion about creating a platform for the Business Brain community, possibly through Slack, Discord, or LinkedIn.
The hosts emphasize the importance of asking employees impactful questions like, “What’s the best idea to improve our company?” and “What’s the stupidest thing we’re doing right now?” They explore how these questions, along with additional ones generated through AI tools, can lead to meaningful insights and innovations. However, they stress the need to manage expectations and follow through on actionable feedback to maintain trust and engagement.
They also reflect on lessons learned from other businesses, such as Fastenal’s innovative vending machine model, which streamlines supply management for companies. Dave shares his experience with leveraging trade organization memberships for networking and business strategy insights, while Shannon reiterates the importance of experimentation and continuous learning.
The episode concludes with a call for listener reviews and feedback, emphasizing the show’s commitment to providing value and encouraging a spirit of collaboration and growth within the Business Brain community.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #607 for Casual Friday, December 13th, 2024
- December 13th: National Ice Cream Day
- 00:01:42 Business Brain Review
- 00:02:40 Tom hired Jack Tompkins after listening to BB 307
- 00:04:31 Where is the home for the Business Brain community?
- 00:08:24 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan.
- 00:10:02 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:11:20 Two questions to ask and improve your business today
- Fastenal
- What is the best idea you have right now to improve our business?
- What is the stupidest thing we’re doing right now?
- And ten more questions from ChatGPT
- 00:21:47 Business Brain 607 Outtro
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss strategies for elevating your business on episode 606 of Business Brain. They emphasize the importance of going beyond merely listing products on platforms like eBay, Poshmark, or Whatnot. Building relationships with platform executives and engaging in their communities can lead to invaluable benefits, such as media opportunities and prioritized support. Shannon shares a personal anecdote about gaining concierge service on eBay by participating in a promotional video, which later resulted in significant advantages for his business.
They highlight networking as a critical element in business, encouraging sellers to connect on LinkedIn, attend trade shows, and engage in online communities to stand out and create pathways for support and growth. The episode also touches on the importance of end-of-year financial planning, such as evaluating fiscal year alignment, contributing to retirement accounts like solo 401(k)s, and effectively choosing health insurance plans. Shannon advocates for a reflective practice of writing a one-page summary daily or annually, documenting business and personal highlights, and sharing it for accountability.
The hosts underscore the value of using tools like AI for summarizing and analyzing personal or business data to identify strengths and weaknesses. They close the episode by encouraging listeners to engage with them for further advice and continue living “charmed lives.”
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #606 for Wednesday, December 11th, 2024
- December 11th: National App Day
- 00:02:00 Selling is not enough
- Are you a part of the community?
- Are you connected to the people at the companies whose tools you use?
- LinkedIn, Conferences, online communities
- Be positive. Be in the flow.
- 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan.
- 00:11:16 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:35 End of year tasks
- Should your company’s year-end be December/calendar year
- Contribute to your retirement accounts
- 00:16:13 Healthcare… business plan or individual plan?
- 00:19:09 Write one page per day…and share it with someone
- Start thinking about your executive summary
- 00:21:41 Business Brain 606 Outtro
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The post Selling is Not Enough + Year End Tasks – Business Brain 606 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Adam Janney, co-founder of Tuska Outdoors, about his entrepreneurial journey and the innovative products his company creates. Adam shares how he and his partner, Josh, built a business manufacturing hunting blinds and lightweight insulated campers using a unique material made of high-density EPS foam with a hard coating. The discussion highlights their early struggles, such as self-funding by selling their homes, navigating manufacturing challenges, and tackling logistical hurdles.
Adam describes how they developed their standout product, the Hitchhiker camper, which originated from a personal need for a lightweight, insulated solution during hunting trips. After showcasing the product at a major outdoor trade show and launching an initial pre-order campaign, the camper gained significant traction, resulting in rapid growth for the company. Adam explains how their product’s unique lightweight and insulated design allows for direct-to-consumer shipping, a rarity in the camper industry.
The conversation delves into the dynamics of Adam’s partnership with Josh, emphasizing the importance of complementary skills and clear division of responsibilities. Adam also credits their success to a trusted third-party mentor who provides valuable guidance and perspective.
Looking ahead, Adam shares the challenges of scaling their business, including expanding their team and production space, and the need to implement standardized processes to sustain growth. He reflects on their evolution from survival mode in the first year to building a sustainable business in the years ahead.
The episode concludes with insights into the value of adaptability, blind faith, and resourcefulness in entrepreneurship. Listeners are encouraged to check out Tuska Outdoors on social media and their website to explore the innovative products that have captivated outdoor enthusiasts.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #605 for Casual Friday, December 6th, 2024
- December 6th: National Microwave Oven Day
- 00:01:26 Special Guest: Adam Janney from Tusca Outdoors
- From College Baseball to EPS Foam…a business partnership is made!
- Sold their houses for seed capital
- Gary Arndt on Business Brain
- The Right Spouse is a Force-Multiplier
- “Too cheap to buy a teardrop trailer”…and now you have a business!
- 00:11:29 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:13:17 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:14:36 The value of splitting a business partnership early in the process
- 00:17:00 Finding that third-party business therapist
- 00:21:24 Properly managing growth
- Using Notion to codify your processes
- 00:24:10 Business Brain 605 Outtro
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The post Tusca Outdoors Co-founder Adam Janney – Business Brain 605 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Key Themes:
- Doubt in Entrepreneurship:
– Doubt is a universal challenge for entrepreneurs, whether they’re just starting or experienced in their journey.
– The hosts discussed how connecting with other business owners helps normalize these feelings, reducing the isolation often felt by solo entrepreneurs.
– Anecdotes were shared about overcoming imposter syndrome, including one story of a successful entrepreneur who grappled with a coach’s offhand remark about intelligence and education.
- The Importance of Downtime:
– Downtime is crucial for maintaining productivity and avoiding burnout.
– Dave emphasized being intentional about scheduling downtime, viewing it as a necessary task rather than an indulgence.
– The hosts shared personal experiences, such as Dave’s recent family-focused holiday and Shannon’s challenges in embracing relaxation amid a busy lifestyle.
– The idea of “productive rest” was highlighted, where intentional breaks lead to renewed energy and focus.
- Community and Vulnerability:
– Engaging with others—whether through coaching groups, meetings, or casual conversations—helps dismantle the myth that entrepreneurs must have it all figured out.
– Sharing struggles fosters a sense of solidarity and helps build resilience.
- Listener Engagement:
– The hosts encouraged listeners to share their downtime strategies and personal insights on managing self-doubt at feedback@businessbrain.show.
Sponsor Highlights:
– LegalZoom: Affordable legal solutions for business formation and compliance, with a special discount using promo code BBSHOW.
– Notion: A comprehensive productivity tool integrating notes, projects, and AI for seamless workflow management.
Takeaways:
– Self-doubt is part of the entrepreneurial journey, but sharing and learning from others can make it manageable.
– Intentional downtime is as vital as work itself—it fuels productivity and overall well-being.
– Building connections within the entrepreneurial community provides invaluable support and shared learning.
Listeners are invited to reflect on their own experiences and contribute to the conversation to foster collective growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #604 for Wednesday, December 4th, 2024
- December 4th: Extraordinary Work Team Recognition Day
- 00:01:27 Doubt
- Imposter Syndrome
- 00:07:20 What are you struggling with right now?
- 00:08:18 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:10:05 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:11:25 Be intentional with your downtime
- You’re not falling in love with being busy, you’re falling in love with being productive. That also means good breaks… schedule downtime in your calendar just like any other task. Those short breaks can be fantastic.
- 00:19:29 Business Brain 604 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post Doubt and Downtime – Business Brain 604 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
The podcast episode of Business Brain focuses on key entrepreneurial strategies, including rapid idea evaluation, leveraging opportunities, and creative funding strategies. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the importance of quickly vetting business ideas by evaluating potential risks, rewards, and long-term benefits. They share examples, such as avoiding a low-value investment in auctioned products and preferring systems that provide ongoing value over short-term gains.
Shannon introduces his “flip-to-fund” strategy, where he finances lifestyle upgrades (like ATVs or property) by finding great deals, buying multiple items, and reselling enough to cover the cost of what he keeps. This approach aligns with his frugality and preference for funding assets with profits rather than direct spending. He emphasizes that research and persistence are key to mastering this method.
The hosts also highlight the value of peer groups, accountability, and learning from others to refine decision-making and entrepreneurial skills. They express gratitude for their listeners and reflect on the benefits of collaboration, both in their podcast and personal growth. The episode concludes with a call for listener reviews and engagement, inviting stories of similar strategies and ideas.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #603 for Casual Friday, November 29th, 2024
- November 29th: National Day of Listening
- 00:01:06 Vetting Opportunities Quickly
- 00:09:04 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/brain
- 00:10:44 Thank you!
- 00:13:43 Flip to Fund
- Apple Studio Display
- LG 5K Display
- 00:19:10 Business Brain 603 Outtro
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In this podcast episode, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss key concepts related to entrepreneurship, motivation, and business growth. Shannon shares his experience working on a landing page for an online course, highlighting the importance of using proven design methods to cater to different buyer personas. They discuss the science behind sales pages, including the value of strategically placed calls to action and understanding user behavior.
The conversation shifts to managing boredom as an entrepreneur, with both hosts reflecting on how feelings of stagnation can signal the need for new challenges or projects. Shannon shares anecdotes about his entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the transition from chaos and growth phases to maintenance mode, and how this shift often led him to explore new ventures. Both agree that understanding when to pivot or delegate responsibilities is critical.
They also discuss leadership styles, contrasting the roles of a leader versus a manager, and how recognizing personal strengths can help entrepreneurs focus on their most impactful contributions. The episode closes with an invitation for listeners to share their experiences managing entrepreneurial boredom and transitions.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #602 for Wednesday, November 27th, 2024
- November 27th: DrinksGiving
- 00:01:39 Review Business Brain
- 00:02:05 Landing Page Design
- Hero page
- 00:09:18 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan: https://incogni.com/brain
- 00:10:54 Being motivated by boredom
- Fear of success
- Don’t treat your employees like you would want to be treated in their shoes
- 00:19:46 Business Brain 602 Outtro
- Review Business Brain
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The post Motivated by Boredom – Business Brain 602 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean explore the power of memes and GIFs in business marketing. They discuss how these tools can effectively cut through the noise, grab customer attention, and add a touch of humor to branding. Shannon shares his experience using trending memes with tools like memelord.tech, while Dave demonstrates how AI, like ChatGPT, can assist in creating context-relevant memes.
The duo also highlights the importance of integrating personality into branding. They recount personal stories of leveraging humor, creativity, and human connection to make businesses more relatable, even suggesting playful phone auto-attendants as an example.
The episode emphasizes the importance of embracing casual, human touches in business interactions and marketing to foster stronger connections with customers. Listeners are encouraged to share feedback and examples of their own creative branding strategies.
Listeners are invited to review the show and share their thoughts at businessbrain.show.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #601 for Casual Friday, November 22nd, 2024
- November 22nd: National Go For a Ride Day
- 00:01:08 The Power of GIFs and Memes
- How to say GIF
- Memelord
- Novelty or Familiarity
- Relating current events to your business with memes
- 00:06:11 We’re (still) not selling your identity.
- 00:09:11 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:10:43 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan.
- 00:12:08 Making Your Personality your Brand
- The Alter Ego Effect
- Replace your hold music with you…telling them a story about your company
- Get a model release form
- Computer NERDZ!
- 00:21:12 601 Outtro
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The post Adding Your Personality to Your Business – Business Brain 601 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this milestone episode, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean celebrate 600 episodes of Business Brain and reflect on their journey of adapting and evolving over the years. The conversation focuses on an insightful concept: “solving for money” and the mindset shifts that come with financial independence.
Key Takeaways:
The Meaning of Solving for Money: “Solving for money” is not about achieving a specific bank balance but developing a mindset of financial confidence. It’s the realization that you can generate income when needed, which often comes after successfully creating something on your own. Both hosts emphasize that solving for money brings flexibility and freedom rather than ease. It allows you to focus on what truly interests you.
Living Below Your Means: Shannon shares personal experiences of always living below his means, funding his lifestyle with profits instead of assets, and avoiding debt. This approach has helped him navigate challenges, including family expenses like weddings and college.
The $1,000 Brain Switch: Shannon describes the “brain switch” that flips the first time you independently earn significant money. This switch fosters confidence in your ability to generate income, even in the face of setbacks or failures.
The Danger of Complacency: The hosts discuss the risk of complacency when financial success leads to larger bank balances. They advocate for reinvesting profits into assets that generate income rather than spending on depreciating items like expensive cars or unnecessary luxuries.
Asset vs. Profit Mindset: Shannon and Dave stress the importance of turning profits into income-generating assets. They share examples, including investing in real estate and rental opportunities like RVs.
Mindset Over Money: The episode underlines that financial freedom is more about mindset than money. Shannon highlights how he’s felt “rich” most of his life due to the freedom to carve his own path, even during lean times.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #600 for Wednesday, November 20th, 2024
- November 20th: National Absurdity Day
- 00:01:00 Six Hundred Episodes…w00t!
- 00:02:16 The mindset of solving for money
- I’ve always felt rich even when I was objectively broke
- Live below your means so that your revenue has a greater impact
- Fund your lifestyle with profits, not assets
- Scale up…and be willing to scale down
- 00:05:35 The Thousand Dollar Brain Switch
- Once you realize you know how to make money
- I can survive failure
- 00:10:33 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:05 SPONSOR: Incogni. Take your personal data back with Incogni! Use code BRAIN at incogni.com/brain and get 60% off an annual plan.
- 00:13:31 Success vs. Complacency
- Look at your bank account(s) every day
- Don’t Spend Assets
- 00:20:30 Comparing both of today’s topics
- Get yourself a set of drums…and then send the rest into “asset-land”
- It’s all mindset!
- Turo Car Rental
- RVShare
- 00:24:52 600 Outtro
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The post Once You Solve for Money – Business Brain 600 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the journey of transforming an idea into a business and the mindset shifts required for success. Reflecting on the story of Erica Beth Levin, they emphasize the importance of taking the first steps rather than waiting for perfect conditions. Hamilton and Jean use a baseball analogy to advocate for consistency and resilience over “home runs” in business, suggesting that getting “on base” frequently is more critical for long-term success.
They also delve into the concept of flexibility versus freedom in business. While freedom is elusive, flexibility allows business owners to time-shift their responsibilities, giving them control over their schedules and letting them prioritize family or personal interests. This flexibility, they argue, is often a powerful motivator and is valuable not only for business owners but also for employees in modern work environments.
The hosts also share their personal experiences with time-shifting and discuss the value of fostering a flexible work culture that empowers employees to manage their own time. They close by inviting listeners to share their stories on managing flexibility and accountability in business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #599 for Casual Friday, November 15th, 2024
- November 15th: National Direct-to-Consumer Day
- 00:01:21 Dissecting Globowl on Business Brain 599
- Taking that step from idea to business
- Moneyball Theory – how many times do they get on base?
- Don’t Wait & Don’t Give Up
- 00:08:01 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:09:51 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:11:31 Freedom vs. Flexibility
- Prioritizing emergencies
- Time-shifting
- Building for yourself
- Ultimate accountability is the differentiator
- Business Brain Exponential Upside Opportunities
- 00:23:07 599 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Erica Beth Levin, founder of Global—a unique baby food brand aimed at solving the issue of picky eating by introducing children to diverse and flavorful foods early on. Inspired by her own children’s dietary journeys, Erica shares how she began serving her kids the same meals her family ate, from coconut curry to saffron dishes, challenging the norm of feeding children bland, allergen-free purees.
Erica discusses the practical challenges of launching a food business, from sourcing ingredients and packaging to scaling up with a remote team. She emphasizes the importance of networking—framing it as “community building”—and creating an advisory board to bridge knowledge gaps. Erica recounts her experience on Gordon Ramsay’s Food Stars, a journey sparked by her son’s encouragement. Filmed in London, the experience required her to delegate business operations, strengthening her ability to trust her team.
Throughout the episode, Erica offers advice to entrepreneurs, like surrounding yourself with experts, listening to customer feedback, and always planning ahead. She notes that while scaling a consumer product company (CPG) is challenging, it’s critical to stay innovative and responsive to market trends. In line with Global’s mission, she hints at future plans to expand their product line for adults, creating more opportunities for families to enjoy flavorful meals together.
The hosts wrap up by highlighting Erica’s inspiring journey and encouraging listeners to follow her company, Global, and connect with her on social media for more insights.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #598 for Wednesday, November 13th, 2024
- November 13th: National Hug a Musician Day
- Special Guest: Erica Bethe Levin from Globowl
- 00:01:30 A very picky first child spawns an idea!
- Feeding everything, including allergens, to the next child
- 00:04:08 From my child…to all of your children!
- 00:05:20 Bringing the world to your kids through food
- 00:06:39 Surrounding yourself with people who know your industry better than you
- 00:07:35 Accidental Entrepreneur
- Online and offline publishing
- 00:11:07 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:12:59 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:14:38 Filming a reality show while
- Erica Bethe Levin on Food Stars with Gordon Ramsay
- 00:16:45 Evolving your company in your absence
- 00:21:49 Request to be at your meetings
- 00:22:30 Use your resources
- 00:23:43 598 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean celebrate “International Talk About Money Day” while sharing valuable insights on retirement, entrepreneurship, and teaching effectively. They tackle a listener’s question about retirement, emphasizing the importance of defining retirement on your own terms. Both hosts share their experiences of transitioning out of traditional careers but continuing to pursue meaningful work, whether through new ventures or supporting nonprofits.
They also delve into the concept of simplifying and breaking down instructions when helping others, especially when teaching complex topics like buying liquidation products. They stress the importance of being thorough when teaching and using tools like Loom to create over-the-shoulder learning experiences. Shannon also shares the surprising news of Loom being acquired for $975 million, highlighting its value as a teaching tool.
Finally, the episode wraps up with encouragement to keep asking questions, leaving reviews, and pursuing a “charmed life” filled with flexibility and meaningful pursuits.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #597 for Casual Friday, November 8th, 2024
- November 8th: International Talk Money Day
- 00:01:02 Business Brain Reviews 10/30/2024
- Leave us a review!
- 00:02:07 Ed-When is the right time to retire?
- How do you define retirement?
- 00:08:00 Focus on learning how to solve for money.
- 00:09:56 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:11:14 Don’t Ignore The First Steps
- Loom
- Loom sold for $975 million
- 00:18:17 597 Outtro
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In this episode of “Business Brain,” hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the implications of using AI-generated content in a corporate setting sparked by an email from a listener, Jeff. They explore the legal gray areas surrounding AI-generated works, especially regarding copyright and company ownership of AI-assisted creations. The hosts believe the legal response to AI often stems from fear of the unknown, as the copyright implications for AI-generated content have yet to be tested in court.
The hosts also discuss the often-overlooked upside of entrepreneurship: the “exponential upside.” Shannon likens entrepreneurship to casting a net, where small daily efforts eventually capture larger opportunities, sometimes dramatically changing an entrepreneur’s life. He emphasizes the importance of consistent effort, experimentation, and building infrastructure and skills rather than just chasing grand opportunities. Shannon shares that he’s preparing for what he believes could be the most profitable venture of his life, though it requires further skill development.
The episode also includes a sponsorship from Vanta, a company that automates security compliance, and the hosts encourage listeners to keep exploring entrepreneurial opportunities, sharing their success stories at feedback@businessbrain.show.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #596 for Wednesday, November 6th, 2024
- November 6th: National Nacho Day
- 00:01:19 Jeff-Who owns the content created with help from AI?
- ChatGPT is a great procrastination-killer
- 00:09:23 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:10:40 Exponential Upside of Being an Entrepreneur
- Every business starts as a side hustle
- Have a business that’s a sandbox
- 00:20:56 596 Outtro
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In this episode of the Business Brain podcast, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share personal anecdotes to emphasize the importance of understanding one’s audience and leveraging AI tools to navigate tricky situations. Shannon shares a humorous experience with LED candles at vacation rentals, highlighting the unpredictability of guest behavior. Dave discusses a recent gig where he used ChatGPT in voice mode while driving to craft a response to a sound engineer he had a conflict with. This approach helped him achieve a positive outcome, which led to a broader discussion about using AI for customer service and problem-solving in business.
The hosts also explore the dynamics of relationships when one partner earns significantly more than the other, drawing on a recent article and reflecting on their own experiences. They emphasize that the right spouse can be a powerful support in an entrepreneur’s journey, whereas the wrong one can hinder progress. They encourage the audience to use AI in creative ways and remind listeners to reach out with their stories and feedback.
This episode’s sponsors include LegalZoom and Notion, which offer tools for business formation and productivity.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #595 for Casual Friday, November 1st, 2024
- 00:01:04 November 1st: Scented Candle Day
- Also National Authors’ Day
- 00:02:14 Use ChatGPT voice to rehearse a custom script for your upcoming meeting
- Non-Complementary Behavior
- 00:12:05 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:13:42 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:15:24 The Right Spouse is a Force Multiplier…and the wrong one is a business-crusher
- 00:23:28 BB 595 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean tackle the delicate topic of politics in business, discussing whether or not businesses should share political views and how doing so can impact credibility. They share their thoughts on staying politically neutral, using an analogy to musicians and how their political stances can influence listeners’ perspectives.
The hosts also explore the importance of building and maintaining credibility in business. They dive into real-life examples of how over-delivering on promises and offering excellent service can build trust with customers. Shannon shares his experience selling handbags, highlighting how he gradually built credibility over time to increase sales.
Tune in to learn about the value of credibility in business, why it’s often best to keep politics out of your business communication, and how to create what the hosts call your “credibility stack.” This is a must-listen for entrepreneurs and business owners looking to build trust and ensure long-term success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #594 for Wednesday, October 30th, 2024
- October 30th: National Checklist Day
- 00:01:38 Let’s Talk About Talking About Politics
- Sonos
- 00:10:02 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:11:37 SPONSOR: Launch, run, and make your business official at LegalZoom.com — Promo code BBSHOW gets 10% off any business formation product.
- 00:13:20 Credibility and how to prove it
- Jeff Bezos “No One Trusts The Media”
- What’s In Your Credibility Stack?
- 00:22:19 BB 594 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss insights from their recent guest, Michael Prendamano, who introduced his bin store concept. The store operates with a unique pricing model where the price of items decreases each day until sold. They explore how this innovative approach adds value for both customers and suppliers, emphasizing customer service at every level.
Dave and Shannon also discuss their experiences running family businesses, sharing stories about hiring family members, building trust, and maintaining professionalism in family business dynamics. They highlight the importance of treating all team members equally and the benefits of sharing entrepreneurial lessons at the dinner table. The episode wraps up with a nod to the value of family and business integration while keeping a focus on respect and clear boundaries.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #593 for Casual Friday, October 25th, 2024
- October 25th: World Pasta Day
- 00:01:17 Dissecting the Bin Store with Michael Predamano, Business Brain 592
- Bring value to your customers and your vendors
- Make customer service your noble cause
- Every business is in the Customer Service business
- 00:06:45 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:08:12 Turns Out I’m Running a Family Business
- The Value of Dinner Table Lessons
- 00:23:26 BB 593 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean talk with Michael Prandamano, founder of The Bin Store. Michael shares his journey from starting out with retail arbitrage in his backyard storage shed to operating two successful bin store locations moving over 1.75 million items annually. The Bin Store offers a unique pricing model where everything starts at $6 on “restock days” and gradually decreases throughout the week, making it a treasure hunt for customers.
Michael discusses the challenges of scaling his business, managing inventory, negotiating leases, and employing effective guerrilla marketing strategies to attract customers. He emphasizes the importance of delivering value to customers and leveraging his past experiences to make strategic decisions. Michael also offers insights into the sourcing process, where he buys truckloads of returned products without delving into specific manifests, trusting in the cost-per-piece model to ensure profitability. The episode showcases the creativity, adaptability, and customer-focused mindset needed to thrive in retail liquidation.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #592 for Wednesday, October 23rd, 2024
- October 23rd: National Slap Your Coworker Day
- 00:02:00 Special Guest: Michael Prendamano – The $6 Bin Guy
- Started in the shed, then the garage, and the living room
- Began with selling things he owned, compartmentalizing to different online stores
- Then started buying palettes
- And the “Death Pile” started growing…things he couldn’t sell online
- 00:07:21 SPONSOR: Vanta. Vanta automates compliance for ISO 27001, SOC 2, GDPR, and more, saving you time and money — while helping you build customer trust. Save $1,000 at Vanta.com/brain
- 00:08:47 So… in-person it is!
- Over 60 employees
- “What kind of value are we delivering to the customer?” Make that the focal point
- 00:10:28 If I’m going to do it, go big
- Be aware of risk aversion
- BinStore Brands – Parent company
- Entities set up for each individual store
- Another entity for the palette business
- Run a P&L every week
- 00:14:23 The 6-6-5-4-3-2-1 pricing model
- It’s about piece-count
- Treasure hunters come in first, but then it’s just bargain bin
- “And that buys a customer for life”
- 00:18:40 Finding suppliers for items like this
- 00:19:59 Customer acquisition is a multi-pronged approach
- Flyers
- YouTube
- SEO
- Facebook – Static photos are more valuable than videos. Wet the appetite of the treasure hunters
- 00:22:18 BB 592 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss a variety of topics, starting with the expansion of Spirit Halloween stores into the Christmas season with Spirit Christmas, highlighting the pop-up retail model’s risk-managed approach. They then dive into Michael Girdley’s list of “11 tells of successful people,” exploring traits like clarity of speech, the ability to take action, and a willingness to take risks and be introspective. Shannon shares his own experiences with entrepreneurial challenges, including a software business failure that led to a successful book.
The hosts also emphasize the importance of unfailing self-belief and optimism while discussing how successful people make hard tasks look easy and seek to align compensation with their contributions. The episode includes a sponsorship message from Shopify, underscoring its role in helping entrepreneurs sell products effectively.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #591 for Casual Friday, October 18th, 2024
- October 18th: National Necktie Day
- 00:01:19 Spirit Halloween stays open with a new sign…Spirit Christmas!
- 00:04:11 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:06:21 Michael Girdley-11 Tells of Successful People
- Clarity of speech
- Two Marshmallow Thinkers
- Cheap Cars
- Introspective by Nature
- Bias to action
- Super responsive
- Make hard things look easy
- Intellectual honesty
- Game selection
- Want to be compensated for contribution
- Unfailing self-belief and optimism
- 00:18:15 Being able to frame your failures
- 00:20:01 BB 591 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon dive into several topics, including wedding planning insights, tools for managing emails effectively, and the concept of risk aversion in entrepreneurship. They discuss how tools like SaneBox can streamline email management by filtering out non-essential emails and setting reminders to ensure timely follow-ups, particularly for entrepreneurs and salespeople. They also explore the importance of taking risks as an entrepreneur, highlighting that overcoming risk aversion and pushing boundaries is key to growth. The discussion touches on how risk-taking can be a competitive advantage and how breaking conventional rules often drives successful businesses.
The episode also features a sponsorship segment by Shopify, where Dave shares his experience using Shopify for one of his businesses and how it significantly simplified selling merchandise worldwide. They conclude by encouraging listeners to reflect on their own risk-taking behavior and share their thoughts.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #590 for Wednesday, October 16th, 2024
- October 16th: Global Cat Day
- 00:02:16 Planning weddings the RIGHT way
- 00:03:53 I use SaneBox, What about you?
- SaneReminders
- 00:09:36 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today! https://shopify.com/businessbrain
- 00:11:29 Risk Is a Competitive Advantage
- eBay Financing
- Kabbage Financing
- “Have the courage to suck at something new.”
- How to pronounce GIF
- 00:21:12 BB 590 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean explore AI’s impact on business practices. They introduce “AI IRL,” sharing how they use tools like Freepik for generating visuals and Cast Magic for transforming content efficiently. The conversation addresses client relations, focusing on the influence of budget sizes and the importance of clear communication. They highlight the balance between providing quality service and managing expectations while inviting listeners to share their own experiences with AI. The episode wraps up with actionable insights on leveraging AI tools and enhancing client interactions.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #589 for Casual Friday, October 11th, 2024
- October 11th: National Spread Joy Day
- 00:01:18 AI IRL: Freepik AI Image Creation
- Spotify Poll: How often are you using AI in your business?
- 00:05:53 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- Castmagic
- 00:07:37 Candidly, not Honestly
- 00:11:13 Small Budgets, More Frustration
- Be aware of the percentage of a client’s budget that they are spending on you.
- 00:18:02 Be aware of getting jaded about your customers
- “I compartmentalize my time”
- 00:23:41 BB 589 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the evolving landscape of online selling, focusing on the recent changes to Poshmark’s fee structure. I share my experiences from building a successful handbag business on the platform, discussing how the new tiered fees—which can drop sellers’ earnings to as low as 5.9%—may impact buyer behavior and seller strategies. We analyze the potential consequences of introducing buyer fees and how this shift aims to attract high-ticket sellers while navigating current market trends. Additionally, I address the need for businesses to adapt to changes quickly, especially with the important Q4 season approaching. We conclude by considering dynamic pricing strategies and encourage listeners to share their experiences with the new fee structure and how they plan to adjust their selling practices.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #588 for Wednesday, October 9th, 2024
- 00:01:00 October 9th: International Beer & Pizza Day
- Cafe Dell’Arte Chicken Parm Pepperoni Pizza
- 00:02:04 “We’re In Your Neighborhood”
- CBDfx.com
- 00:06:50 SPONSOR: Notion combines project management with your docs, knowledge base, and AI. You can try it for free today at Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:08:38 Just One More
- Poshmark’s fee changes (used to be 20%, now 6% plus additional)
- Fees calculated post-shipping and tax
- Shannon’s Poshmark Fees Post
- Reddit analysis of Poshmark’s new fees
- 00:16:36 BB 588 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we examine travel dynamics and the lessons learned through family trips. Dave shares insights from his Disney World experience, emphasizing the importance of adapting expectations for diverse family needs.
Shannon recounts his New York City journey, highlighting time management strategies and innovative solutions like a three-wheeled walker for his mother.
The discussion covers resource management in high-demand environments, particularly with systems like Disney’s Lightning Lane, and the value of upfront planning for long-term satisfaction. Shannon introduces the concept of lifetime SEO, urging authenticity in our online presence. The episode wraps up with a reflection on strategic thinking and adaptability in navigating life’s challenges.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #587 for Casual Friday, October 4th, 2024
- October 4th: National Body Language Day
- 00:00:49 Managing your own expectations
- 00:02:21 The value to you of teaching others to use their Business Brain
- Use Disney Lightning Lane
- Fall in love with problem solving
- 00:12:03 Give yourself permission to be a VIP!
- 00:14:45 The Value of Lifetime SEO
- Google’s NotebookLM
- 00:20:27 BB 587 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss the intersection of AI and entrepreneurship. Shannon shares his transition from traditional search engines to AI tools like ChatGPT, highlighting practical applications for small businesses. The conversation covers the advancements in AI that enhance creative processes and how Apple Intelligence aids in information management.
Shannon reflects on his journey to building a media company focused on consulting and knowledge-sharing, emphasizing the value of community in coaching. They conclude by urging entrepreneurs to embrace AI technology and remain adaptable in a changing marketplace.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #586 for Casual Friday, September 27th, 2024
- September 27th: Morning Show Hosts Day
- 00:01:10 What are you doing with AI?
- ChatGPT in the car
- Apple Intelligence on my iPhone with Beta software
- Creating Images – tip: tell it “no words are necessary, I’ll add those later.”
- Programming
- 00:09:59 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:12:05 Dave to Shannon: What is your new business?
- A ME-dia company, productizing one’s knowledge
- 00:18:45 BB 586 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we examine the importance of organizational charts for enhancing efficiency and communication, even for solopreneurs. We discuss how defined roles facilitate quicker problem-solving and smoother operations.
We also analyze the strategic implications of hiring new sales representatives, weighing options for financing these positions. Additionally, we explore when to shift client accounts from “house accounts” to those needing active management, emphasizing the balance between rewarding sales personnel and sustainable business practices.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #585 for Wednesday, September 25th, 2024
- September 25th: National Daughters Day
- 00:00:59 Org Chart Upgrade to an Accountability Chart
- Adding responsibilities
- Maximize Efficiency
- 00:04:30 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and upgrade your selling today!
- 00:06:02 Business Therapy: Hiring Out of Cash Flow vs. War Chest
- Value: Freeing up YOUR time
- 00:10:27 Managing “House” Accounts vs. Business Development
- 00:14:12 BB 585 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss strategies for managing a diverse social media presence effectively. By mastering one platform at a time, we can foster genuine engagement and tailor content to specific audiences. We highlight the value of delegation through a content manager, which eases the burden of content creation while preserving authenticity.
We also explore the importance of intentionality in commitments, sharing my experience stepping back from a draining volunteer role. This underscores the need to align our choices with personal values and professional goals. Ultimately, we emphasize mindful time allocation and encourage listener feedback to foster community engagement as we navigate the ongoing journey of business growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #584 for Casual Friday, September 20th, 2024
- September 20th: National String Cheese Day
- 00:01:00 Social Media Approach: Shotgun or Sniper?
- Divide and Conquer: One channel at a time
- Michael Girdley on X – Weekly Interview to Create the Content
- CastMagic
- 00:09:04 SPONSOR: Keeper. Track expenses, find deductions, and get a bigger tax refund. Get 10% off @Keeper.tax at keepertax.com/business! #keepertaxpod
- 00:10:43 Being Intentional With Your Time
- Are you an energy monster?
- Always maintain a bias to action!
- Selling Yourself on Quitting
- 00:20:36 BB 584 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the art of effective idea presentation, using vacation rental maintenance as a case study to underscore stakeholder engagement. We discuss the financial benefits of full-time employees versus contractors and introduce the “two-week experiment” to foster buy-in.
We highlight the significance of body language, eye contact, and humor in communication, sharing personal experiences to illustrate engagement techniques. We wrap up with a call for listeners to share their own tips, emphasizing the importance of leaving audiences wanting more.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #583 for Wednesday, September 18th, 2024
- September 18th: Rice Krispie Treat Day
- 00:01:30 Hiring an employee vs. a string of contractors
- Vacation vs. Business
- Vacation Rentals Business
- 00:06:41 SPONSOR: Keeper. Track expenses, find deductions, and get a bigger tax refund. Get 10% off @Keeper.tax at keepertax.com/business! #keepertaxpod
- 00:08:18 How You Present Ideas is Just as Valuable As the Idea
- Two Week Experiment
- Present Ideas Interactively
- Loom
- Learn to Take Up Space – Be a Longneck
- Always Leave Them Wanting More
- Two Hour Cocktail
- Laugh and smile with your audience
- Find connection moments
- 00:19:47 BB 583 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we examine coachability and its vital role in personal and professional growth. Building on insights from Dan Magazoo of Ride the Wave, we discuss the shift towards rapid scaling in entrepreneurship and the essential qualities of a coachable person, such as self-awareness and accountability.
We share anecdotes illustrating how owning mistakes can foster a positive learning environment while also highlighting the importance of optimism in engaging with mentorship. Ultimately, we emphasize that embracing coachability not only enhances individual growth but also strengthens team dynamics. Tune in to reflect on your own coachability and its impact on your success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #582 for Casual Friday, September 13th, 2024
- 00:00:46 September 13th: Programmers Day
- 00:01:12 Protecting your business vs. Scaling your business
- Dissecting Business Brain 581 with Daniel Magazu
- Starting off based upon commission instead of just giving it away for free
- 00:05:00 Are you coachable?
- Are you willing to admit you don’t know how to do something? Or are you more apt to just learn how to do it yourself?
- 00:08:49 Hire people who are coachable
- Ask potential hires: What don’t you know? What are you interested in knowing?
- Are you comfortable being accountable…or are you interested in blaming someone else?
- Ed Asner Nuclear Reactor SNL Skit
- Optimists are more coachable
- 00:20:25 BB 582 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we talk with Daniel Magazu, founder of Ride the Wave, about organic content marketing for home services. Daniel discusses his entrepreneurial journey and how Facebook groups can empower businesses to engage with local communities, particularly targeting decision-makers like moms.
He emphasizes authenticity in social media strategies, crafting genuine client introductions that highlight community contributions. The discussion also covers the importance of adhering to community guidelines and the need for marketing diversification beyond Facebook. Daniel shares insights into his transition from landscaping to entrepreneurship and offers practical advice on leveraging client referrals to navigate the changing marketing landscape. Listeners gain valuable lessons in adaptability, community engagement, and business innovation.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #581 for Wednesday, September 11th, 2024
- 00:00:49 September 11th: National Make Your Bed Day
- 00:01:22 Special Guest: Daniel Magazu from Ride The Wave
- Focusing on Facebook Groups to target local communities to help clients market to potential customers
- 00:02:56 Selecting the right groups
- Only 30-40% allow businesses to post
- 00:04:11 Facebook Groups Marketing Strategy
- Pictures Matter most
- Give a nice introduction
- Scan for content that identifies questions that need answers
- 00:07:59 Create something or work for someone else?
- Daniel was a freshman in college five years ago
- Inspiration: soliciting for babysitting jobs works in local groups, why not landscaping?
- That helped Daniel’s landscaping business…but why not take the lesson and build a business?
- Got two test clients to see how it went…success!
- Lesson: Get referrals from clients early on
- Lesson: Celebrate the success of your clients (which helps promote your own business)
- 00:16:47 What happens when Facebook Groups Marketing Doesn’t Work anymore?
- One idea: offering new verticals or services
- Keyword Tool that identifies Keywords in Facebook and Nextdoor groups
- Success Should Scare You: When you have success, find the next cash source
- Success breeds complacency
- 00:21:16 How many people do you have working for you?
- Daniel: I do all my recruiting myself, focused on off-shore labor
- Find the right places to splurge: for Ride The Wave, that’s copywriters.
- 00:24:10 BB 581 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we tackle procrastination on Fight Procrastination Day 2024. Shannon and I share our experiences, exploring how anxiety often fuels our delays while sometimes leading to better decision-making. We discuss the challenges of managing multiple projects and consider using virtual assistants and innovative tools like Crush to improve productivity.
Reflecting on fear, we highlight its dual role as both protective and limiting, with insights from Brian Friss on making decisions beyond fear. I share my journey with the fear of failure and the necessity of cultivating an abundance mindset. We encourage listeners to engage with us on these themes as we navigate the complexities of procrastination and personal growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #580 for Casual Friday, September 6th, 2024
- 00:00:49 September 6th: Fight Procrastination Day
- Notion
- Crush The Memory
- Limitless Private Cloud
- 00:06:29 Informed Delivery for Business PO Boxes
- 00:08:50 Learning (and setting) your Fear Baseline
- Brian Friss on Business Brain
- This stressful thing “will have ended”.
- Embrace the fear of being A Failure
- Abundance Mindset
- 00:22:39 BB 580 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the significance of Global Talent Acquisition Day and its role in business strategy. We explore the origins of this day, established by KRT Marketing in 2018, and share methodologies to improve talent acquisition processes.
Through a personal anecdote, we emphasize the need for model release forms to protect intellectual property rights and suggest practical onboarding steps for securing consent.
The conversation highlights risk-taking in business, advocating for the mindset of “ask for forgiveness, not permission” while balancing calculated decision-making with impulsive actions. Listeners are encouraged to share their experiences with talent acquisition and risk management.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #579 for Wednesday, September 4th, 2024
- 00:00:47 September 4th: Global Talent Acquisition Day
- 00:01:56 Have your employees sign a model release form
- Maybe they’re in the witness protection program
- Work for Hire
- 00:08:19 Forgiveness vs. Permission
- Figure it out as you go!
- I can solve most problems with more sales
- WIth great power comes great responsibility
- Shannon Jean’s First Law of Auctions: Never buy anything unless you know what you can sell it for
- BB 579 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss strategies for enhancing entrepreneurial skills and navigating social situations. We introduce the concept of “foot-in-mouth disease,” encouraging listeners to embrace potential embarrassment as a catalyst for growth. Sharing experiences from a trade show and a concert, I highlight the importance of engaging with others.
We also cover “borrowed credibility,” a method we used to gain testimonials and experience for our coaching business. We explore the notion that audience loyalty stems from the host’s engagement rather than guest prominence. We conclude by sharing personal anecdotes on leveraging relationships to create opportunities in our ventures.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #578 for Casual Friday, August 30th, 2024
- August 30th: National Toasted Marshmallow Day
- 00:00:45 Embrace Foot-In-Mouth Disease
- Ask Questions: “How does this work? I didn’t know that!”
- 00:04:40 Borrowed Credibility
- 00:10:37 The story of why Shannon and Dave met
- Stacking up lifestyle businesses
- 00:13:07 BB 578 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean delve into the podcasting landscape, focusing on the dynamics between content creators, sponsors, and audience privacy. Dave shares insights from Podcast Movement, highlighting his presentation on an efficient podcast workflow developed over two decades, emphasizing the vital role of consistency in content release.
The conversation shifts to privacy issues surrounding podcast advertising, with the hosts discussing the lessons learned from past web oversights that birthed stringent privacy laws and advocating against invasive tracking. Dave introduces the BackBeat Media Private Pixel, a privacy-centric solution designed to verify ad effectiveness without compromising listener data. The episode stresses the need for transparent discussions within the podcasting community and expresses optimism for the Private Pixel’s upcoming rollout, while inviting listener feedback to foster an engaged podcasting community.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #577 for Wednesday, August 28th, 2024
- August 28th: Crackers Over The Keyboard Day
- 00:01:56 Podcast Movement 2024…
- 00:07:18 …and the upcoming BackBeat Media Private Pixel
- 00:20:00 BB 577 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the importance of personal connections in business. We share insights from the auction world and a significant find on a liquidation site, emphasizing consumer behavior and economic trends.
We discuss how to infuse authenticity into branding by sharing personal stories and fostering trust with clients. The power of storytelling is highlighted as a key marketing strategy.
Additionally, we touch on language nuances in marketing and provide practical advice on maintaining engagement and reminding customers of the human touch behind brands. Join us for insights on creating a more human-centric business approach.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #576 for Casual Friday, August 23rd, 2024
- August 23rd: International Cheap Flight Day
- 00:01:06 Trailing Indicators
- The Tuna Fish Price Index
- 00:07:25 Connecting with Your Customers On a Personal Level
- 00:14:35 Don’t Make Your Product the “Most” Unique
- 00:16:20 BB 576 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, I, Dave Hamilton, and co-host Shannon Jean discuss Internet Self-Care Day and the balance between productivity and burnout. Sharing personal experiences, we address the anxiety of overlapping commitments and the importance of saying no. We also emphasize simplicity in business operations and clear communication as keys to enhancing productivity. I invite listeners to reflect on their own struggles with finding balance and share their insights.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #575 for Wednesday, August 21st, 2024
- August 21st: Internet Self-Care Day
- 00:00:51 How productive is too productive?
- “You don’t have to involve me in this.”
- 00:07:48 Be Reliable…Especially To Your Family
- 00:10:45 It’s OK To Say “No”
- 00:12:15 The fight against complexity
- Synology Drive – Private Cloud for Keeping Your Business Private
- 00:17:39 Learn how to describe your business in 12 words or less
- 00:20:14 BB 575 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon and Dave discuss problem-solving and efficiency in entrepreneurship, using personal experiences as illustrations. We draw parallels between kayak design and simplifying business processes while highlighting the importance of considering simple solutions like Occam’s Razor. Through anecdotes about seeking expert help and a client overwhelmed by data, we advocate for a bias towards action over analysis paralysis. We also reflect on our podcasting journey, emphasizing practice and iteration over waiting for perfection. We wrap up with a reminder to embrace action and learn from failures as we move forward.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #574 for Casual Friday, August 16th, 2024
- August 16th: National Rollercoaster Day
- 00:01:07 Folding Kayak Inventions
- Oru Folding Kayak
- Origami Paddler
- 00:04:13 Finding the right service provider
- “I can fix almost anything”
- 00:10:17 Calculate your opportunity cost
- Joe Benson on Business Brain 573
- It’s easier to hire someone and control their focus than it is to control our own
- 00:13:58 Data Collection vs. Action
- Have a Bias Towards Action
- 00:19:18 BB 574 Outtro
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In episode 573 of Business Brain, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean interview Joe Benson, founder of Eversite, a digital marketing agency. Joe discusses his journey from creating websites as a child to launching the innovative “website as a service” model, making web services affordable for small businesses. He shares insights on leveraging social media for lead generation and emphasizes the importance of communication in demonstrating the value of digital marketing.
Joe also addresses the challenges of entrepreneurship, including work-life balance and the need for supportive networks. He concludes with advice for aspiring entrepreneurs on networking and embracing challenges
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #573 for Wednesday, August 14th, 2024
- August 14th: National Financial Awareness Day
- 00:01:28 Special Guest: Joe Benson of Eversite by Legnd
- $400 was all it took to take a hobby and realize it into a business
- Benson Technologies into Legnd into Eversite, which is a website-as-a-service (WaaS)
- Eversite will roast your website…for free if you ask them on X.
- 00:08:27 Every business is the Customer Service business
- 00:11:06 Systematizing customer service
- Twice quarterly check-ins
- 00:13:13 Entrepreneurship Challenges
- Marketing
- Family Time
- The Right Spouse is a Force-Multiplier
- 00:16:32 Be intentional about a time-cutoff
- 00:24:00 Healthy Conflict is key to a successful business partnership
- 00:26:33 BB 573 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon stress the importance of making customers feel special and valued, drawing inspiration from lead singers like Pat Monaghan and Sammy Hagar. They emphasize the significance of personalized interactions through simple gestures like using customers’ names to establish emotional connections.
The hosts share personal anecdotes to illustrate the impact of personalized customer interactions and discuss the necessity of diversifying online presence to maintain autonomy and stability. The episode concludes with a call for audience engagement to share strategies for taking control of online presence beyond social media platforms.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #572 for Casual Friday, August 9th, 2024
- August 9th: Annual Perseid Meteor Shower Peak Night
- 00:00:52 Sammy Hagar Syndrome – Pat Monahan has it, too!
- Make Your Customer Feel Special: They’re the most important, they’re special, this is the best interaction you’ve had.
- Templated responses with Freshdesk, Help Scout, or Text Expander
- 00:07:59 Don’t Put All Your Eggs In Someone Else’s Basket
- “Social is not the end, it’s just the beginning.”
- 00:15:03 BB 572 Outtro
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On Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss boosting productivity and cultivating an entrepreneurial mindset. They share insights on outsmarting the system, taking breaks for productivity, and the importance of making initial income as an entrepreneur. Emphasizing financial independence through calculated risks and diverse income streams, they encourage listeners to embrace entrepreneurship. The episode aims to inspire individuals to reshape their mindset for success and empowerment in the world of
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #571 for Wednesday, August 7th, 2024
- August 7th: Professional Speakers Day
- 00:00:40 Helping you Beat The System to Lead that Charmed Life
- 00:02:40 Daniel Levitin: people who take 15-minute breaks to invoke their Default Mode Network every 2-hours (or so) are generally more productive.
- I Heard There Was a Secret Chord
- 00:08:25 The Thousand-Dollar Brain Switch
- My First Million Podcast
- Mistakes are Tuition
- 00:14:00 The “If I had to…” list is ALSO a switch
- 00:16:39 BB 571 Outtro
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Join us in this episode as we reflect on International Beer Day and explore the acquired taste of beer. We then delve into a discussion on Sam Walton’s approach to change in business, focusing on the concept of the “RC factor” – resistance to change. Discover how our pattern-seeking minds can lead to resistance to change and the importance of identifying and staying true to our priorities.
Learn about managing priorities based on interests, the role of self-awareness, and how systems and resources impact decision-making. Gain insights into the dynamic nature of priorities and the value of celebrating small victories while scaling success through replication. This conversation offers valuable perspectives on change management, self-awareness, priorities, and maintaining focus to drive success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #570 for Casual Friday, August 2nd, 2024
- August 2nd: International Beer Day
- 00:01:31 The RC Factor
- The Founders Podcast with David Senra
- What is your resistance to change factor?
- Pattern Recognition Robots
- It’s a “Two Week Experiment” to boil your frog
- 00:05:34 Priority is not plural.
- What’s your current priority?
- Mike Schmitz from the Focused Podcast and Bookworm Podcast
- 00:13:58 BB 570 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discussed how businesses can leverage their unique strengths as unfair competitive advantages. We shared examples and personal experiences to emphasize the importance of recognizing and maximizing these strengths to stand out in the market. Listeners were encouraged to reflect on their own businesses and share their stories at businessbrain.show for further discussion on this critical aspect of business strategy.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #569 for Wednesday, July 31st, 2024
- July 31st: Uncommon Instrument Awareness Day
- 00:00:57 Pitch Slap Cajon that Dave Plays
- 00:02:02 What is Inland Marine Insurance
- 00:05:12 What is your Unfair Advantage?
- What does your business have that’s difficult (or impossible) to replicate?
- John Wiley charges more in the USA than in Asia – Supap Kirtsaeng got sued!
- Doctrine of First Sale
- 00:16:39 BB 569 Outtro
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Business Brain is taking an intermission this week! Visit your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, on 𝕏 for daily updates.
We will be back with you next week!
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In this episode of Business Brain, we emphasize the value of embracing one’s differences and sharing personal narratives, even in embarrassing situations like getting locked out of a hotel room in just a hoodie. By owning our quirks and transforming challenges into relatable stories, we can connect authentically with others and shape our own narratives, celebrating individuality and sharing experiences with pride.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #568 for Casual Friday, July 19th, 2024
- July 19th: National Daiquiri Day
- 00:02:05 Corky’s Gag
- 00:06:36 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year
- 00:08:27 Get Comfortable being Different
- Control the Narrative
- 00:21:49 BB 568 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the challenges faced in daily business operations, focusing on managing unexpected disruptions and the importance of task prioritization. We also discuss incorporating personal opinions, particularly on political matters, into business platforms, emphasizing the need for creating a neutral environment to respect diverse viewpoints and uphold a positive reputation.
The conversation stresses the caution and responsibility of engaging in social commentary, highlighting the value of maintaining neutrality in business communications.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #567 for Wednesday, July 17th, 2024
- July 17th: National Hot Dog Day
- 00:01:58 Time Vampires!
- 00:04:30 Managing incoming phone calls
- 00:08:32 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
- 00:10:22 Politics mixed with your Business
- Business Brain 392 and Business Brain 98
- Nobody Cares What I think about politics (until I share what I think about politics)
- I am not a PR Expert
- The emacs vs. vi flame war
- BB 567 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss leveraging AI algorithms like ChatGPT for targeted marketing, handling internal conflicts within companies, and managing teams effectively. The hosts share personal anecdotes and insights on balancing business needs with employee satisfaction. The episode offers practical advice and engaging storytelling for business owners and entrepreneurs.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #566 for Casual Friday, July 12th, 2024
- July 12th: National Simplicity Day
- 00:01:08 Flying Yourself!
- Grumman Tiger
- 00:03:23 Reviews and Customer Service
- Use ChatGPT to build an Ideal Customer Profile
- THEN…build a target list of fifty other companies that match that list
- THEN…develop a marketing plan to pitch to those fifty
- 00:08:50 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:46 When there’s a coup, fire the coup-leader, too.
- 00:20:59 BB 566 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss the nuances of business and management. They explore the significance of recognizing employees’ strengths and preferences to ensure they thrive in their roles. The conversation highlights the importance of promoting self-awareness within a company culture and learning from unsuccessful promotions for growth. The hosts invite listeners to share their experiences on managing employee roles effectively in their businesses.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #565 for Wednesday, July 10th, 2024
- July 10th: National Pina Colada Day
- 00:00:58 The Tuna Fish Litmus Test
- 00:06:11 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:08:08 Right Person, Right Position
- Observe FIRST.
- Don’t move people out of what they’re really good at.
- 00:20:04 BB 565 Outtro
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Join us on Business Brain as Dave and Shannon cover topics from National Workaholics Day to confidence in business. Shannon shares how confidence helped his negotiations as a landscape company manager. They discuss the impact of language, appearance, and humility on building confidence and effective communication.
The conversation highlights the role of small wins, deferring to experts, and adapting communication to different audiences in boosting confidence. They emphasize the importance of supporting others and receiving feedback in cultivating self-assurance. Ultimately, they stress that confidence is key to success beyond financial gains and urge listeners to tackle self-doubt and take proactive steps forward.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #564 for Casual Friday, July 5th, 2024
- July 5th: National Workaholics Day
- 00:01:58 LinkedIn Has a Problem
- 00:07:02 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year
- 00:08:58 Building Confidence
- Be willing to say “I don’t know” and “I dont’ know what that is”
- Focus on small wins!
- Everyone can’t know everything, and everyone knows that.
- 00:20:10 Do the things you don’t want to do FIRST
- And… help people! Leverage the law of reciprocity.
- You’re the only one who lives in your head.
- 00:23:42 BB 564 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss the misconceptions surrounding lifestyle businesses, sharing stories of individuals finding success by enjoying the day-to-day work. They highlight the importance of enjoying the business grind rather than just the end result, reflecting on their own experiences with multiple lifestyle businesses. The hosts delve into the significance of having multiple revenue streams for financial stability and encourage listeners to explore unconventional entrepreneurship avenues for growth. They tease their next episode on building confidence through entrepreneurship and long-term success foundations.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #563 for Wednesday, July 3rd, 2024
- July 3rd: National Independent Beer Run Day (also National Fried Clam Day)
- 00:02:21 How has technology evolved to help us get good headshots?
- Headshot Pro
- 00:07:54 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
- 00:09:51 Lifestyle businesses are OK! Enjoy what you’re doing… don’t worry about your passion, just the nuts and bolts of it.
- Fall in love with problem solving. No problems, no business!
- Don’t fall in love with “scaling” or “exiting”
- Fall in love with stacking lifestyle businesses
- 00:21:00 BB 563 Outtro
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss the impact of handling bad reviews on social media and avoiding public venting. They highlight the importance of incentivizing positive reviews and maintaining a constructive approach towards feedback.
Transitioning to risk tolerance in business, they share personal insights and stress the significance of recalibrating one’s risk scale over time. Reflecting on past decisions, they emphasize making informed choices and offering tailored advice to clients. Dave and Shannon propose developing a risk assessment tool to help clients assess their risk tolerance levels accurately.
They emphasize transparency and guiding clients based on individual risk profiles. Concluding with the concept of assigning alter egos to different risk levels, they encourage listener feedback to improve their advisory approach and promote an open dialogue.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #562 for Casual Friday, June 28th, 2024
- June 28th: National Food Truck Day
- 00:01:20 Don’t Be Your Own Bogeyman
- Don’t Create Your Own Negative Reviews
- 00:05:46 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
- 00:07:43 Teaching Risk Tolerance
- Wipeout Risk
- Recalibrate your risk scale REGULARLY
- 00:16:13 The ComScore Gamble
- Complacency Risk
- If you choose not to decide, you still have made a choice
- BB 562 Outtro
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In this episode, we explore the intricacies of navigating a challenging business deal negotiation, delving into the frustrations encountered when faced with one-sided and unreasonable agreements from opposing legal teams. The speaker emphasizes the shift towards collaboration over mere negotiation to achieve a mutually agreeable outcome.
The discussion highlights the importance of active participation in negotiations and maintaining a balance between assertiveness and cooperation. The episode concludes with reflections on the evolving dynamics of the negotiation process and the significance of informed and collaborative approaches for successful deal-making.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #561 for Wednesday, June 26th, 2024
- June 26th: National Barcode Day
- 00:02:16 Beating Your Business with The Simple Stick
- Founders Podcast
- Insanely Simple: Steve Jobs
- 00:04:51 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
- 00:06:48 Negotiation vs. Collaboration
- Nobody Gets Everything
- 00:29:48 BB 561 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
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Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, and Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets discuss building systems and output thinking in business. Alex shares his journey transitioning from furniture making to focusing on cabinets, emphasizing lean manufacturing principles, delegation, and hiring for continuous improvement.
They mention “Output Thinking” by John Seifer, the challenges of managing growth, and the value of seeking outside help. Alex highlights the importance of learning and adapting, sharing his experience with the business community on X for support and connection. The episode emphasizes embracing continuous improvement and community support in entrepreneurship.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #560 for Casual Friday, June 21st, 2024
- June 21st: National Day of The Gong
- Guest: Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets
- Less Planning, More Action!
- …And then you change and start planning
- LEAN Mentality with Two-Second Improvements
- John Seiffer’s “Output Thinking”
- Finding an SMB pocket on Social Media…a Support Group!
- Fine-Tuning Social Media
- BB 560 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post Alex Forbes Lane 17 Cabinet Co – Part 2 – Business Brain 560 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On Business Brain, we chat with Alex Forbes, founder of Lane 17 Cabinet Company. Alex traces his entrepreneurial evolution from woodworking to specialized cabinetry amid pandemic challenges. He discusses delegation, lean principles, and continuous improvement, crediting the X community for support. The conversation emphasizes authenticity in social media, learning from experiences, and collaboration opportunities for entrepreneurs online.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #559 for Wednesday, June 19th, 2024
- June 19th: Juneteenth, National Wristwatch Day, and also National Martini Day
- 00:01:30 Guest: Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinets
- 00:02:00 Growing up in an entrepreneurial household
- 00:03:32 A Quick post-College detour to the real world then…Lane 17!
- Named after Fire Lane 17 on the lakeside
- 00:05:33 From Cutting Boards to Restaurant Furniture
- Going into debt…great motivator!
- 00:07:39 Covid opens up the door for a pivot to custom cabinetry
- 00:08:41 The A-Ha Moment
- 00:11:48 Managing The Terrible Memories
- 00:14:47 Expanding your internal footprint
- 00:19:14 “The Business Had to Grow Through Debt”
The post Alex Forbes from Lane 17 Cabinet Co Part 1 – Business Brain 559 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us on Business Brain as we explore a fresh segment idea for animal shelters, envisioning a community-based system where dog adopters provide mutual support like pet-sitting. We discuss the potential for shelters to offer additional services for financial sustainability and touch on the concept of “business therapy.” Sharing a personal anecdote, we reflect on the importance of humility and continuous learning. Embracing challenges and feedback, we encourage a collaborative environment for growth and development.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #558 for Casual Friday, June 14th, 2024
- June 14th: National Pop Goes The Weasel Day
- 00:01:06 Codifying Business Therapy
- 00:09:35 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
- 00:10:55 My Ego Saved Me From Itself.
- 00:21:50 BB 557 Outtro
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The post Saved by my Ego – Business Brain 558 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss the superhero complex in entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of empowering others and letting go of control. They explore the qualities of a good coach and the value of defining success metrics when seeking coaching. The hosts reflect on featuring coaches on the show, considering the insights they could offer on coaching strategies. They invite audience feedback on effective coaching characteristics and encourage open dialogue for shared learning.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #557 for Wednesday, June 12th, 2024
- June 12th: Superman Day
- 00:01:03 Superhero Complex
- Main Character Syndrome
- David Lee Roth epitomizes Lead Singer Syndrome
- Gary Cherone knows how to manage this!
- Business Brain 530 – The Alter Ego Effect
- 00:06:36 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
- 00:07:57 Coaches, Courses, and their value (like therapy!)
- 00:18:09 BB 557 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon share light-hearted banter about donuts and amusing business jargon before delving into Dave’s exhilarating experience at a Rolling Stones concert. They discuss the Mobile Locker Company’s innovative solution for secure storage at events, praising its business model and problem-solving abilities. The conversation transitions to logistical challenges at venues, emphasizing the importance of efficient entry and exit procedures.
The episode wraps up with a call for listeners to share unique business problem-solving stories, leaving audiences with a blend of humor, practical advice, and entrepreneurial insights into event management and customer service dynamics.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #556 for Casual Friday, June 7th, 2024
- June 7th: National Donut Day
- 00:01:22 “Is there anything that would cause you to not attend our appointment?”
- “I’m glad to help, I know you will do the same for me.”
- 00:03:35 Mobile Locker company
- Yonder Phone Sleeves
- 00:14:30 Parking as the friction point
- 00:16:02 BB 556 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post Power Phrases + Mobile Locker Co – Business Brain 556 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us in this episode of Business Brain, marking our 555th episode, as Dave and Shannon share insights on consistency and persistence in business success. We explore compartmentalization, emphasizing clear boundaries, designated workspaces, and prioritizing tasks with the Eisenhower matrix.
We also discuss delegation of non-core tasks and reflecting on accomplishments through a “to-did” list. Share your compartmentalization tips with us as we collectively enhance our business prowess. Tune in for strategies to elevate productivity and efficiency in business management.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #555 for Wednesday, June 5th, 2024
- June 5th: National Gingerbread Day
- 00:01:29 Thanks for your patience
- Delivering Positive Frameworks
- 00:04:51 Be an Excellent Curator
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:08:07 Master of Compartmentalization
- Business Brain Episode 376
- 00:10:00 Shaming Myself for Multitasking
- 00:15:57 Chunking up your day
- The Pomodoro Method with Bob LeVitus on Business Brain
- Manage the Brain Reset!
- 00:18:57 The Eisenhower Matrix
- 00:21:28 To Did Lists
- 00:22:15 BB 555 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post Become a Master of Compartmentalization – Business Brain 555 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the importance of balancing chaos and routine in life. We discuss how alternating between periods of overload and downtime can keep life engaging and prevent monotony. By sharing personal anecdotes of busy schedules, hosting guests, and finding relaxation, we redefine retirement as a phase for new adventures and risks. We highlight the significance of chaos in creating lasting memories and narratives, encouraging listeners to share their own strategies for maintaining this balance. Embracing change, like trying out different sides of the bed, can introduce fresh perspectives. Our aim is to inspire others to welcome the unpredictability and vibrancy that chaos offers, fostering a journey of self-discovery and equilib
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #554 for Casual Friday, May 31st, 2024
- May 31st: National Save Your Hearing Day
- 00:02:06 Talking directly to your customers, one-on-one…en masse
- 00:08:39 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year.
- 00:10:23 Balance and Chaos
- “A rut is just a grave with two ends kicked out of it”
- “Dance like nobody’s watching”
- 00:15:00 Retirement is the freedom to do what you really want
- 00:20:01 BB 554 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discussed the significance of addressing customer needs by focusing on “what’s in it for me.” Emphasizing a customer-centric approach, we explored leveraging social proof, showcasing real-world examples, and aligning marketing strategies with customer preferences to build trust and lasting relationships. By prioritizing customer feedback and delivering exceptional experiences, businesses can enhance their marketing strategies, drive growth, and create meaningful connections with their audience.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #553 for Wednesday, May 29th, 2024
- May 29th: National Paperclip Day
- 00:01:50 Tiny Tip: Newsletter Subject Line: use an emoji to brand yourself
- 00:05:23 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain to try free for 30 days and then 10% off your first year
- 00:07:11 What’s in it for me? — from your customers’ perspective.
- Make your customer look good to their boss (or their client)
- Create the avatar of your customer, and target that person.
- Avatars vs. Real People
- Tyler Purcell on Business Brain
- 00:18:39 BB 553 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post What’s in it for me? Business Brain 553 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the frustrations with traditional banks and the need for improved banking practices, prompted by a recent experience with Zelle.
Shifting focus, we explore the RISEN method for enhancing productivity and content creation through AI interactions. Delving into AI tools like Cast Magic and Loom, we unveil their transformative capabilities in synthesizing and repurposing content across platforms. Looking ahead, we envision AI as a powerful assistant in optimizing content creation, signaling a promising future for innovation and efficiency in the business world.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #552 for Casual Friday, May 24th, 2024
- May 24th: Lakeside Park Day
- 00:00:57 The Freakin’ Banks
- Zelle
- 00:07:45 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:00 The RISEN AI Prompt Method
- Mulch Masters
- Becoming a good AI Prompt Creator
- Castmagic
- Loom AI
- Refine and Repurpose your Content with AI
- AOL Instant Messenger
- 00:24:51 BB 551 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post The RISEN AI Framework – Business Brain 552 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On this May 22nd episode of Business Brain, Tyler Purcell, COO of Kiplinger Wealth Advisors and co-founder of The Laundry Spot, shares his journey from finance to laundromats, emphasizing patience and persistence in achieving goals like a community on 20 acres.
He highlighted the value of social media for industry connections, embracing entrepreneurship, and finding a balance between personal and professional life. Tyler’s story inspires taking initiative, seizing opportunities, and fostering meaningful relationships in business and personal endeavors.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #551 for Wednesday, May 22nd, 2024
- May 22nd: Bitcoin Pizza Day
- 00:02:46 Tyler Purcell – Laundry and Finance…but NOT launderING!
- …and COO of Kiplinger Wealth Advisers
- 00:04:18 Followed his father-in-law into a laundromat…business!
- Laundry Spot
- 00:05:08 Passive versus Active
- The Laundromat Slack Channel
- 00:08:40 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:27 A Ten Percent Business
- 00:11:10 Who are the Laundromat Extraordinaire’s on X?
- 00:14:00 My Business Will Be 10x Better from the Connections I’m Making on X
- 00:19:16 Twenty Acres, Eight Lots, Four Family, Four Friends…
- 00:26:19 BB 551 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post Tyler Purcell – Laundromats and Finance – Business Brain 551 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into effective email communication by discussing phrases to avoid and the impact they have on recipients. The speakers share their insights on using clear and direct language in emails to convey messages efficiently. One speaker shares a recent experience managing unexpected changes for a business event in New York City, highlighting the importance of managing expectations and staying composed in challenging situations.
The significance of personal connections through face-to-face interactions is emphasized, especially in remote work environments. The episode wraps up with a discussion on AI tools like Chat GPT for writing ad scripts, teasing future episodes featuring guest Tyler Purcell and his business ventures in laundromats and financial planning.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #550 for Casual Friday, May 17th, 2024
- May 17th: National Bike To Work Day
- 00:00:54 Sam-Avoiding Certain Phrases In Business Communication
- Do we want to…
- I’m just following up…
- I wanted to check in…
- I hope you’re doing well…
- 00:05:18 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
- 00:07:02 The Power of Presumed Failure
- Tradeshows and Conferences
- 00:23:28 BB 550 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post The Power of Presumed Failure – Business Brain 550 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join Business Brain as we explore effective decision-making with government agencies and hiring global talent. Discover “snowball decision-making” for handling obligations and learn about transparent negotiations.
Explore hiring remote assistants and the importance of cultural alignment and effective communication. Gain insights on assessing performance and fostering successful business operations with remote talent.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #549 for Causal Wednesday, May 15th, 2024
- May 15th: International Family Day
- How to get sponsors for your podcast
- 00:01:32 Snowball Decision-Making
- Successful Story Delivering
- 00:05:48 SPONSOR: LinkedIn Jobs will help you hire the right person for your role. Post your first job for free at LinkedIn.com/BUSINESSBRAIN. Terms and conditions apply.
- 00:07:31 Hiring Global Talent…Which Way to Go?
- Help with Distributing Content
- 00:18:15 BB 549 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post Hiring Global Talent – Business Brain 549 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon delve into the challenges and heroism of small business owners. They discuss transitioning into a management role, delegating tasks, and the struggles of micromanagement. Dave shares insights on podcast marketing, advising on audience building, consistency, and sponsor attraction criteria. The importance of authenticity in podcasting is stressed for audience engagement. They conclude with encouragement for aspiring podcasters to stay consistent and authentic in sharing their stories.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #548 for Casual Friday, May 10th, 2024
- May 10th: National Small Business Day
- 00:02:14 Steven-544-Prioritizing The Value of Passive Income / LMA$
- The 80% Rule on Business Brain Podcast
- 00:07:56 Finding Podcast Sponsors
- Business Brain Sponsors
- BackBeat Media
- Podtrac’s Analytics
- 00:20:50 BB 548 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post Finding Sponsors for your Podcast – Business Brain 548 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Today’s episode covers observing national days in podcasts, hosting fundraisers for conservation, and applying business strategies to enhance non-profit events. We discuss the role of business-minded individuals in event organization, emphasizing delegation and volunteer empowerment. Highlighting listener contributions, we explore screen recording tools like Loom for improved communication and training videos, encouraging creativity in enhancing daily efficiency through different mediums.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #547 for Causal Wednesday, May 8th, 2024
- May 8th: National Coconut Cream Pie Day
- 00:03:23 Applying Business Best Practices to Level Up Other Areas of Your Life
- Conserving Wetlands with Ducks Unlimited
- 00:08:14 Todd-537-Other Screen Recording Options plus Loom
- Slack
- CleanShot for Mac
- Loom as SOP Definer: Dallas Taylor on Gig Gab Shares How He Buys Back His Time using Loom
- Loom
- Loom Transcripts – People can comment and create asynchronous dialog
- Loom for Providing Nuance in Text Conversations
- 00:14:32 BB 547 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the impact of language on mindset and actions, advocating for reframing negative self-talk into positive affirmations. They highlight the value of confidently promoting businesses by emphasizing quality rather than hyperbole, utilizing press releases, accomplishments, and testimonials to shape a positive narrative. Encouraging listeners to proactively share their successes, engage with customers for testimonials, and build a strong online presence for credibility and differentiation in the competitive market.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #546 for Casual Friday, May 3rd, 2024
- May 3rd: National No Pants Day
- 00:01:13 Watch Your Language
- Taming Your Inner Judge
- Reframe “Unsettled Mind” to “Curious Mind”
- 00:05:48 Find ways and reasons to promote your business
- Press Releases might seem minor to you… they’re not
- “If You Don’t Think You’re a Bad-Ass, Don’t Expect Anyone Else To”
- PRWeb
- Senya.io
- Testimonials.to
- 00:15:18 BB 546 Outtro
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Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post The Power of a Press Release – Business Brain 546 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us on Business Brain as we explore maximizing credit card rewards and the importance of social connections for entrepreneurs. Discover strategies for using credit cards wisely to earn rewards, negotiate vendor payments, and select cards that suit individual needs.
Then, we delve into the impact of social isolation on entrepreneurs’ mental and physical health, emphasizing the value of fostering social interactions within teams and joining peer groups for support. Share your tips on maximizing rewards and enhancing social connections in the entrepreneurial world.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #545 for Wednesday, May 1st, 2024
- May 1st: Frequent Flyer Day
- 00:01:03 Gather Up Those Credit Card Rewards Points
- “The Best Way to Get My Business Is To Take My Credit Card as Payment”
- 00:06:10 (Don’t Be) The Lonely Entrepreneur
- Practice the Skill of Connecting
- Don’t Burrow Into Your Business Like a Tick
- 00:13:31 Beware the Soapbox!
- And don’t let your employees be lonely, either
- Hang out with OLD employees
- 00:20:16 545 Outtro
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The post The Lonely Entrepreneur – Business Brain 545 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
n this episode, we discuss the challenges of exhausting video calls in work settings and suggest turning off cameras for better focus. We also explore the concept of “Leave Me Alone Money” (LMA) for financial independence, emphasizing autonomy in pursuing personal goals over accumulating wealth. Advantages of LMA money in career decisions and life fulfillment are highlighted, encouraging audience feedback on personal empowerment.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #544 for Casual Friday, April 26th, 2024
- April 26: World Intellectual Property Day
- Riversong Retreat
- 00:00:59 Video Calls are Exhausting
- 00:06:40 Talk about Strategy More on the Show
- 00:07:22 Shannon’s New Term: “Leave Me Alone” Money
- LMA Money
- Beware the Crisis of Complacency
- Retirement Scares Me
- FIRE Concept
- Budgets Suck
- 00:14:58 BB 544 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
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Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean on Business Brain share personal stories and reflections on enjoying life’s journey as entrepreneurs. They emphasize balancing work and enjoyment, sharing lessons from personal experiences. The hosts encourage prioritizing activities one enjoys and tease an upcoming episode on “how much is enough.” The episode concludes with a reminder to join their mailing list and a message to live a charmed life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #543 for Wednesday, April 24th, 2024
- April 24: Administrative Professionals Day
- Shannon’s On The Starlink again
- 00:02:13 Beware Hating Your Customers
- Two Tokens of Customer Service
- 00:10:09 Enjoy and Create Your Charmed Life While You Have It
- The Most Entertaining Outcome…Usually Happens!
- 00:18:08 BB 543 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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In this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton share strategies for building a social media following. Shannon’s success story of growing from 500 to 5,600 genuine followers in 90 days highlights the power of organic growth. We discuss joining growth groups, engaging authentically, and the significance of consistency in content creation and interaction. Leveraging an alter ego for protection against negativity, creating a supportive community, and injecting energy into interactions are key points. Strategies for boosting engagement through viral content, trending topics, and cultivating a strong online persona are essential for exponential growth. By focusing on authenticity, value, consistency, and performance, individuals can expand their influence on social media platforms l
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #542 for Casual Friday, April 19th, 2024
- April 19: Sylvester The Cat’s Birthday
- 00:01:13 Growing Your Following
- Find a Growth/Follower-Building Group
- Spend More Time Commenting On Other People’s Posts Than You Do Posting
- Combat the Trolls with a Think Skin with your Alter Ego
- Have Fun
- Value, Virality, and Volume
- End Your Comment with Another Question to Keep The Conversation Going
- 00:11:34 Shannon’s Crazy Two Posts
- 00:18:28 Performance and Costume
- Give First!
- 00:23:48 BB 542 Outtro
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- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
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The post Growing Your Brand on Social – X and Beyond – Business Brain 542 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into Gabe Treviso’s entrepreneurial journey, exploring his transition from real estate to creating Suds2Go. Gabe shares the inspiration behind his portable hand washing system, which he gained from parenting challenges, and discusses his Shark Tank experience, unexpected growth during the pandemic, and the significance of a solid business foundation. We touch upon hiring strategies, remote team building, continuous learning, risk-taking, and work-life balance, highlighting the essentials for entrepreneurial success.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #541 for Wednesday, April 17th, 2024
- April 17: National Crawfish Day
- Special guest, Gabe Trevizo
- 00:03:23 Real estate into his own company
- 00:03:41 Taking Suds2Go on to Shark Tank
- 00:08:51 Launching a hand-washing system during COVID lockdowns
- 00:09:56 The Shark Tank Dream
- Suds2Go on Shark Tank
- 00:14:47 Access To a Community of Founders
- 00:16:54 Managing Your Time
- X as that community
- Parker Cox
- Adding a Chief of Staff
- Having a separate Work Structure
- 00:20:34 Favorite Mistake
- No matter what: Keep Going!
- When You’re Going Through Hell, Just Don’t Slow Down
- Curiosity…or FOMO?
- 00:27:47 How to use a Chief of Staff?
- Pavago
- 00:34:41 BB 541 Outtro
- Find Gabe Trevizo on X
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In this episode of Business Brain, we touch on various topics such as taxes, selling business stock, and musicians selling their catalogs for capital gains. We share anecdotes about log camp, time management with family, and unconventional wealth building methods. Emphasizing communication and boundaries, we highlight the importance of balancing work, family, and personal time.
Personal experiences like dedicating time for family, leveraging tools like Apple’s focus mode, and cherishing device-free moments like hot tub conversations are discussed. We stress the significance of transparent communication with family to prevent feeling disconnected due to work commitments.
The episode concludes by urging listeners to contribute their strategies for managing family time alongside intense business involvement. We welcome feedback and express our commitment to exploring and discussing the essential aspects of work-life balance. Remember to spend quality time with loved ones for a balanced and fulfilling life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #540 for Casual Friday, April 12th, 2024
- April 12: National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day
- 00:01:09 Musicians Selling Their Catalogs for Capital Gains
- 00:06:17 Matt Gibson’s Used Books To Success Method in Gig Gab 423
- 00:11:44 Time Management With Your Family
- Communicate!
- 00:16:47 Matt’s Log Camp helps people define “work”
- 00:18:34 Unplug for an hour
- Go to the Dog Park
- Buy a Hot Tub!
- Sonos Roam
- 00:23:37 BB 540 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Managing Family Time as an Entrepreneur – Business Brain 540 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into IRS tax complexities on National Report IRS Tax Fraud Day, emphasizing accurate filing, savings maximization, and proactive communication with the IRS for issue resolution. We discuss the host’s experience joining the Sounds Profitable trade group, highlighting networking benefits, industry influence, and collaboration opportunities. The conversation underscores the importance of overcoming biases, fostering consensus, and embracing diverse perspectives for industry advancement. Audience engagement in sharing business challenges is encouraged for communal learning and growth within the business community.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #539 for Wednesday, April 10th, 2024
- April 10: National Report IRS Tax Fraud Day (it’s actually a thing!)
- 00:01:12 Invert Your Fear of The IRS
- USPS Informed Delivery Service
- 00:09:43 Joining Sounds Profitable – And the value of Industry Organizations
- 00:19:01 The value of consensus
- 00:21:38 BB 539 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Fear of the IRS + Value of Consensus – Business Brain 539 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore Cheech and Chong’s business journey, evolving into a successful comedy duo with cannabis-related humor. Shannon discusses his upcoming book on entrepreneurship and the power of optimism in business. We delve into reframing thoughts, using positive language, and supporting peers for success. Consistent positivity and mutual support are highlighted as keys to thriving in business. Listeners are invited to share their input on success strategies for collaborative learning
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #538 for Casual Friday, April 5th, 2024
- April 5: Walk To Work Day
- 00:01:00 Cheech & Chong’s Last Movie – A story about branding and business
- Tommy Chong’s (Discontinued) Nano CBD Gummies
- 00:06:54 SPONSOR: Escaping Employment. Get on the waitlist for Shannon’s Upcoming Book.
- 00:08:17 The Greatest Leverage In The World
- Persistent Optimism
- Smile In The Face of Adversity
- The Ability — and Willingness — To Lift Other People Up
- Quartet Glass Dry-Erase Desktop Computer Pad
- Replace “Have To” with “Get To”
- 00:16:23 Shannon’s Not a Loser
- Replace “I’m” with “You’re”
- Fine-tuning your inner judge
- Add “Yet” to your vocabulary
- 00:23:50 BB 538 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post The Most Powerful Leverage in the World – Business Brain 538 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean in this episode of Business Brain as they explore the essential elements of business strategy and personal development. They delve into the concept of creating long-term value through intentional planning and decision-making, emphasizing the notion of delayed instant gratification for future rewards. Drawing from personal anecdotes, they discuss the importance of resiliently navigating setbacks, reframing failures as opportunities for growth, and making strategic choices to achieve success. The episode underscores the significance of perseverance, transformative experiences, and strategic decision-making in the realm of entrepreneurship and financial management.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #537 for Wednesday, April 3rd, 2024
- April 3: Don’t Go To Work Unless It’s Fun Day
- 00:02:06 Don’t Send Bids Via Email
- “What would have been the price at which you could have immediately accepted?”
- 00:07:33 SPONSOR: Escaping Employment. Get on the waitlist for Shannon’s Upcoming Book.
- 00:09:00 Helping by Not Helping
- Some Employees are Bad Debt
- 00:18:00 Delayed Instant Gratification
- Push away the appearance of wealth
- 00:19:46 BB 537 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Helping, Not Helping – Business Brain 537 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the landscape of podcast conferences, focusing on Podcast Movement Evolutions in Los Angeles. We discuss the evolution of these conferences from intimate gatherings to larger, more commercial events. We share insights on the industry’s confusion about which conference to attend and stress the significance of human connections in a transactional business environment.
Dave shares a personal anecdote about a conversation with Dallas Taylor, the creator of ‘20,000 Hertz’, highlighting his journey in starting a sound design studio and the importance of delegation and tools like Loom for training. The episode concludes with a call to action for listener engagement, showcasing Shopify’s trial offer and ending with a warm sign-off, setting a positive tone for the upcoming week.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #536 for Casual Friday, March 29th, 2024
- March 29: World Marbles Day
- 00:01:14 What is Podcast Movement?
- 00:08:00 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:09:59 Dallas Taylor on Gig Gab Shares How He Buys Back His Time using Loom
- Loom
- 00:15:17 BB 536 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post SOPs, Loom, and Delegating – Business Brain 536 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon discuss their recent experiences with snowfall, leisure activities, and the value of persistence. They delve into a story about the Hoover Dam and how it relates to the importance of persistence in achieving success over time. Reflecting on their journey of hosting the show for ten years, they emphasize the significance of persistence and consistency in building a successful business.
Shannon shares his recent focus on the X platform and his involvement in a mastermind group called Growth Madness. He elaborates on how networking, engaging with others, and building credibility on X have led to valuable connections and opportunities. The conversation shifts to the long-term benefits of networking and collaboration, emphasizing the power of reciprocity and creating value for others.
The hosts explore the strategy of building a strong network on X to attract valuable connections and opportunities in the future. Shannon shares insights from his experience, highlighting the importance of mindset, perception, and peer collaboration in personal and professional growth. They discuss the long-term benefits of networking, playing the long game, and the value of community and support in business endeavors.
Shannon concludes by inviting listeners to learn more about Growth Madness and his journey on the X platform. They reflect on the journey of growth and the importance of not going it alone in business, emphasizing the value of groups and collaborative efforts. The episode wraps up with a reference to their sponsor, Shopify, and encourages listeners to sign up for a trial period to enhance their business ventures.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #535 for Wednesday, March 27th, 2024
- March 27: World Theater Day
- 00:02:00 The Hoover Dam’s Concrete Sill Isn’t Cured
- The Whole Dam Tour
- 00:05:23 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:07:23 Joining Mastermind Groups (and Peer Groups, and Advisory Groups)
- Growth Madness Group on X
- Building Credibility
- The Alter Ego Effect
- 00:23:35 BB 535 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Growth Madness – The Power of Collaboration – Business Brain 535 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode, Dave recounts a vivid experience of attending a concert at a small venue during South by Southwest. Additionally, the discussion encompasses business strategies, customer relations, and the impact of personal interactions on professional success, underscoring the significance of authenticity, empathy, and goodwill. Overall, the episode intertwines storytelling, insights, and practical lessons to showcase the potential of positive attitudes and respectful communication in various aspects of life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #534 for Casual Friday, March 22nd, 2024
- March 22: Talk Like William Shatner Day
- 00:01:53 Diane Warren: Relentless
- 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:11:27 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:12:48 Two Free Drinks & The Black Keys – A Story in Reverse Customer Service
- Charlie Munger’s Inversion
- 00:30:27 BB 534 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
The post Two Free Drinks and The Black Keys – Business Brain 534 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we explore the intricacies of unpaid work and the dynamics of partnerships in businesses. We touch upon how Reddit moderators and event volunteers are compensated, discuss the value unpaid interns bring, and the importance of structuring unpaid work arrangements effectively.
Transitioning to partnerships, we delve into the challenges of partners displaying employee-like behaviors, stress the need for clear agreements, and highlight the significance of treating partners equally in terms of compensation and decision-making.
Throughout our conversation, we emphasize open communication, setting expectations early, and utilizing working agreements to prevent conflicts and misunderstandings. We encourage listeners to share their experiences and insights, fostering a dialogue on navigating partnerships and unpaid work arrangements in the business world.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #533 for Wednesday, March 20th, 2024
- March 20: National SBDC Day (Small Business Development Center)
- 00:02:08 Unpaid Workers – Reddit CEO Defends his $193 Million Compensation
- Internships on Business Brain
- SXSW Volunteers
- 00:06:34 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:08:21 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:09:44 Beware the partner who is actually an employee
- Equal Partners Need To Be Treated Equally
- Engaged Encounter (for Business)
- Working Agreement
- 00:21:35 BB 533 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
The post Are You Getting a Partner or an Employee? Business Brain 533 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us as Shannon and Dave come to you from SXSW to discuss how using Auctioneer tactics can help during negotiations and how to eliminate the Vampires in your life. Listen in for a lively episode of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #532 for Wednesday, March 13th, 2024
- March 13: Fill Our Staplers Day
- SXSW
- 00:01:43 Division of Labor
- Shannon Jean on X
- The Random Show with Tim Ferriss & Kevin Rose
- 00:06:52 Dissecting a SXSW Session: Dia Bondi – Ask Like an Auctioneer
- Dia’s book: Ask Like An Auctioneer
- 00:14:49 Dave’s Life-changing “ask”
- 00:18:54 …and Shannon’s!
- 00:20:51 Negotiating with employees as an employer
- 00:23:30 Too Many Vampires
- Futurecasting on Business Brain
- 00:26:38 BB 532 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Negotiating Like an Auctioneer + Vampires – Business Brain 532 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us in discussing the importance of managing energy in business, shifting from energy-draining to energy-giving projects. We explore effective energy leverage, share insights on determining salaries and profit distributions among partners, and emphasize the need for clear agreements in financial management. Embrace resilience and collaboration in entrepreneurship as we navigate the dynamic interplay of energy, financial planning, and partnership dynamics.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #531 for Casual Friday, March 8th, 2024
- March 8: National Proofreading Day
- 00:02:18 Energy Transfer
- 00:06:12 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:07:56 How to pay each other as Business Partners
- 00:20:00 The value of a Working Agreement
- 00:22:06 BB 531 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
The post Partner Payouts – Business Brain 531 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us today for Business Brain 530. We discuss how to keep that “chip on your shoulder” and how to find your next “zero.” We then jump into a discussion of the Alter Ego Effect developed by Todd Herman. Listen and learn!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #530 for Wednesday, March 6th, 2024
- March 6: Day Of The Dude
- 00:01:09 How do you put the chip back on your shoulder?
- Managing Your Ego
- Spending Willpower or Discipline Points
- What is your next zero?
- Identify Your Motivators!
- Find @ShannonJean on X
- 00:10:13 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:11:45 The Alter Ego Effect
- Beyonce’s Sasha Fierce
- “Tear Me Down” lyrics
- 00:19:15 BB 530 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
- Bluesky: Dave Hamilton
The post The Alter Ego Effect – Business Brain 530 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into the concept of starting over and the significance of learning and adapting in the business realm. We discuss the advantages of emulating successful strategies while infusing your unique touch to differentiate yourself. We underscore the importance of serving your team, employees, and customers to foster loyalty and credibility. Entrepreneurship is likened to a blue-collar job that demands hands-on involvement and a commitment to ongoing learning.
Through personal stories and experiences, we illustrate the power of observation, imitation, and innovation in business ventures. Moreover, we stress the value of networking, soliciting feedback, and evolving in the competitive business sphere. The episode motivates listeners to embark on the entrepreneurial journey with a mindset of humility, service, and continuous growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #529 for Casual Friday, March 1st, 2024
- March 1: National Day of Unplugging
- 00:01:00 What about NoPhoneFridays?
- 00:01:52 Organizing and Managing your Twitter/X Profile with Birdy.so
- Beginner’s Mind
- 00:06:03 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:07:46 Imitation Before Creation
- Greg Mercer from JungleScout on Business Brain
- Being an Entrepreneur is a Blue-Collar Job
- Be OF SERVICE to your people (employees, partners, customers)
- Noble Cause on Business Brain
- 00:17:12 BB 529 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
The post Imitation Before Creation – Business Brain 529 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us in this episode as we explore the benefits of taking breaks to recharge, share our own travel experiences, and the value of disconnecting from work tasks. We emphasize effective time management and integrating events into schedules to prevent monotony.
Additionally, we delve into the significance of emails in business operations, emphasizing the importance of a strong email strategy and impactful newsletters. We discuss leveraging AI tools like Grammarly and structuring newsletters effectively to cater to subscriber preferences.
Furthermore, we provide tips for creating engaging newsletter content, including humor, anecdotes, and emojis in subject lines for brand recognition. We stress aligning content with subscribers’ interests and encouraging feedback to enhance our content.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #528 for Wednesday, February 28th, 2024
- February 28: National Time Refund Day
- 00:01:32 Sitting around for a change
- 00:06:21 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:08:05 Email is King!
- 00:09:34 What Makes a Good Company Newsletter
- Value your readers’ time
- Start with the TLDR
- Shannon’s Monologue from MacResQ
- Don’s Soapbox from Small Dog Electronics
- Buy their attention for the next sentence.
- The Whistle, The Workhorse, and The Whale
- Push people to your blog post with the longer story
- Brand with an emoji!
- 00:20:57 BB 528 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
The post Creating a Quality Newsletter – Business Brain 528 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us as we talk about ChatGPT, Pixelmator and why the band Phish is just like Costco when it comes to creating cult-like customer loyalty.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #527 for Casual Friday, February 23rd, 2024
- February 23: National Rationalization Day
- 00:01:30 Using AI for your business
- ChatGPT
- Pixelmator
- 00:06:46 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:08:21 Dave’s off Phish-ing — How to create a cult
- Phish Riviera Maya
- 00:23:44 BB 527 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
- Bluesky: Dave Hamilton
The post Creating a Cult of Customers – Business Brain 527 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we look back at the show’s evolution over the last nine years, from Doing Business As to Small Business Show and finally to Business Brain. We share our challenges and triumphs, such as releasing books and growing our community through podcasting. Our conversation highlights the significance of consistent engagement and adapting our format to enhance audience participation.
We also recount a personal story of a significant financial setback due to fraud, stressing the importance of implementing secure payment processes and learning from past errors. We offer insights on managing fraud in business and urge listeners to exchange their own experiences and tactics for preventing fraud. We wrap up with a request for feedback and gratitude for our dedicated audience’s ongoing support.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #526 for Wednesday, February 21st, 2024
- February 21: National Sticky Bun Day
- 00:01:13 Happy Ninth Anniversary!
- Mistakes book from Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton
- How can we help? feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:05:28 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:07:07 Managing B-to-B Chargebacks and Fraud
- 00:17:56 BB 526 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
- Bluesky: Dave Hamilton
The post 9 Year Anniversary + Dealing with Chargebacks – Business Brain 526 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
You don’t want to miss this episode of Business Brain! We let the recording run long from our interview with Ryan Sneddon in episode 524 and Ryan began interviewing your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean.
This casual conversation about the history of Business Brain and building a foundation for success could be the most important show we’ve ever done.
Listen in!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #525 for Wednesday, February 16, 2024
- 00:01:12 February 16: National Almond Day
- 00:02:49 Naptown Scoop with Ryan Sneddon – The episode where Ryan interviews us!
- 00:13:30 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:15:27 Casual Friday – Part 2
- 00:23:45 BB 525 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post When The Guest Interviews The Hosts – Business Brain 525 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Ryan Sneddon shares his success with the Naptown Scoop, a local newsletter in Annapolis, Maryland. He discusses how he grew his subscriber base and generated revenue through sponsored ads. Ryan also talks about his passion for teaching others and his plans to help people start their own successful newsletters.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #524 for Wednesday, February 14th, 2024
- 00:01:12 February 14: National Ferris Wheel Day
- 00:01:49 Naptown Scoop with Ryan Sneddon
- Demographically-targeted stories
- 00:07:36 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:09:28 Create Your Own Unfair Competitive Advantage
- The Value of Exclusivity and Scarcity
- Life Of Scoop with Ryan Sneddon
- 00:18:00 Relocating when you own a local business
- Birds fly, fish swim, and deals fall through!
- Also: time kills all deals
- 00:20:58 BB 524 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
The post Building a Local Newsletter Business – Business Brain 524 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What are you known for? What reputation does your business have? Listen in to this episode of Business Brain as we discuss the idea of being known for a specific trait or action. We also jump into the concept of fans vs. followers and why the idea of 1000 true fans is so powerful. Join us!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #523 for Casual Friday, February 9th, 2024
- February 9: National Pizza Day
- 00:01:08 The Value of Becoming Known For Something
- Not Famous, But Known
- 00:06:44 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:08:19 Prioritize Fans instead of Followers
- 1,000 true fans
- 00:16:41 Pizza Question
- New Haven Pizza
- 00:17:30 BB 521 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
- Bluesky: Dave Hamilton
The post Being Known + True Fans – Business Brain 523 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Should you be using influencer marketing on social media for your business? Join Shannon and Dave today as we discuss one of our experiences with influencers along with ideas for connecting with more customers and the importance of being responsive.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #522 for Wednesday, February 7th, 2024
- February 7: Wave All Your Fingers at Your Neighbor Day
- 00:01:24 The Value of Responsiveness
- Get a Home Warranty
- 00:05:45 Rebranding
- 00:06:48 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:08:24 Influencer Marketing & The Two Tokens
- Two Tokens of Customer Service
- 00:18:27 BB 521 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
- Bluesky: Dave Hamilton
The post Influencer Illusions – Hype or Reality Business Brain 522 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave and Shannon explore the power of Google My Business pages in driving success through customer reviews. We discuss the challenges older business owners face in finding successors and the risks involved in cash transactions. We emphasize the importance of operating within the boundaries of the law and invite listeners to share their thoughts on legal business practices. Gratitude to our sponsors, Squared Away and Gusto, for their support. Tune in for another episode next week.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #521 for Casual Friday, February 2nd, 2024
- 00:01:24 Branding the weather!
- 00:01:58 Revisiting Google My Business
- Silver Tsunami
- 00:08:15 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:09:54 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:11:35 The perils of operating under the table
- 00:19:29 BB 521 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
- X/Twitter: @ShannonJean & @DaveHamilton, & @BizBrainShow
- LinkedIn: Shannon Jean, Dave Hamilton, & Business Brain
- Facebook: Dave Hamilton, Shannon Jean, & Business Brain
- Instagram: @DaveHamilton & @ShannonJean
- Mastodon: Dave Hamilton
- Threads: @DaveHamilton
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Join us today as we learn about the connection between dumpster rental and SEO digital marketing with Bodhi Gallo of iRentDumpsters and Stryker Digital.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #520 for Wednesday, January 31st, 2024
- 00:01:18 Bodhi Gallo from @IRentDumpsters and Stryker-Digital
- FinancialFreedom101.blog
- Danbury Trashers
- 00:08:29 Publishing Maps on X for “Near Me” search results
- 00:09:29 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:11:07 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:12:47 Actionable SEO Tips
- Build a Google My Business Profile
- Have a website with AT LEAST five regular pages, and then backup pages to each of those
- 00:15:41 Outbound links help your SEO
- 00:16:54 Making X Valuable with The Network Effect
- 00:21:19 BB 520 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Call/Text: (567) 274-6977
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The post Dumpsters and Digital Marketing – Business Brain 520 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode, we discuss a new government requirement for businesses to identify their beneficial owners and share practical tips based on my own experience. We also highlight our sponsors, Gusto and Squared Away, offering time-saving solutions for payroll and HR management, as well as remote executive assistance. Additionally, we delve into the significance of effective email communication and provide guidelines to ensure clarity and efficiency. Join us to improve your business processes and stay informed with the latest insights from our sponsors and community.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #519 for Friday, January 26th, 2024
- 00:01:28 I am not a criminal!
- Create your FinCEN ID
- 00:06:08 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:07:52 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:09:27 How to write an email – Moses Kagan & Five.Sentenc.es
- 00:17:53 BB 519 Outtro
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The post Messaging You Can’t Ignore – Business Brain 519 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the importance of SWOT analysis in evaluating a business’s strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. We emphasize the significance of team collaboration, innovation, and staying ahead in the market. We also share personal anecdotes and explore the power of family unity and creating a motto. Join the Business Brain community at businessbrain.show and check out our sponsors at gusto.com/businessbrain. Until next time, keep living that charmed life!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #518 for Wednesday, January 24th, 2024
- 00:01:36 What is your Family Motto?
- Noble Cause – Business Brain 508
- How to Take Over The World
- Quartet Giant Glass White Board
- 00:07:59 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:09:43 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:11:18 SWOT in Account/Company planning
- 00:19:23 BB 518 Outtro
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The post Using SWOT for your Small Business – Business Brain 518 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What do you do when your customer is W-R-O-N-G?!
Listen in for 18 minutes, and you’ll find out how to maneuver your way around customers that are clearly wrong, but you need them on your side.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #517 for Friday, January 19th, 2024
- 00:01:03 CES…is Back!
- 00:07:41 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:09:39 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today! https://shopify.com/businessbrain
- 00:11:21 How to address a customer when they’re wrong?
- 00:21:07 BB 517 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post When Your Customer is Wrong – Business Brain 517 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss paying tuition with credit cards, utilizing credit card points for benefits, interstatement payments, online collaboration tools, and addressing eBay’s dark side. We emphasize leadership and setting the right tone in business. We conclude with shout-outs to sponsors and encourage listeners to live a charmed life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #516 for Wednesday, January 17th, 2024
- 00:01:37 The Charmed Life with Credit Card Points
- What is the ROI of College?
- Marriott Bonvoy
- 00:07:14 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:09:11 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today! https://shopify.com/businessbrain
- 00:10:53 All Business Issues are Leadership Problems
- eBay Cockroaches and Pigs Blood
- eCommerceBytes
- Leaders vs. Managers – Business Brain
- 00:20:32 BB 516 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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The post How Not to Treat Critics – a Dark eBay Story. Business Brain 516 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the impact of news consumption habits and the importance of being intentional about the content we consume. Host Dave Hamilton shares his personal experience of breaking away from news programming and opting for podcasts instead. We also highlight our sponsors, Squared Away and Shopify, and their services that empower entrepreneurs and business success. The conversation touches on the habits of millionaires, the value of rest, and the importance of providing value to others. We end by inviting listeners to share their wealth-building habits for a chance to be featured on the show.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #515 for Casual Friday, January 12th, 2024
- 00:01:40 Avoid the news!
- Geddy Lee’s My Efffin’ Life
- 00:06:38 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:08:30 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:39 Other Millionaire Habits from Steve On Speed
- Rich People are rich because they provide value to others
- 00:23:05 BB 515 Outtro
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The post Millionaire Habits – Business Brain 515 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss standing out on Twitter, the challenges of managing priorities, employee apathy, and fostering enthusiasm. We emphasize the importance of open communication, personal connections, and providing the necessary tools. Feedback is welcome at feedback@businessbrain.show, and don’t forget to check out our sponsors at gosquaredaway.com and shopify.com/businessbrain.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #514 for Wednesday, January 10th, 2024
- 00:01:20 That’s the T-Shirt!
- Increasing Your Fans and building your fanbase
- Fans are better than Followers
- “Have The Courage to Suck at Something New” – Lucas
- 00:05:07 SPONSOR: Squared Away empowers highly-educated military spouses to become trusted remote executive assistants, all working on US hours.
- 00:06:58 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:09:08 Mitigating Employee Apathy
- Help your team look forward to coming to work
- Learn who your employees are
- Ask: “How Can I Help?”
- 00:23:22 BB 514 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post Mitigating Employee Apathy – Business Brain 514 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
How do you manage your time when dealing with chaos in your business and personal life? That’s the discussion as we begin episode 513 of Business Brain! Then, we jump into some business therapy as we try to figure out how to overcome the dreaded Imposter Syndrome.
Listen in and learn with us!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #513 for Casual Friday, January 5th, 2024
- 00:01:24 Dave’s Three Week Just-In-Time Mania
- Freedom vs. Flexibility
- ADHD Drifting is a Superpower (or, well, it can be!)
- Success Cycle
- 00:08:24 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:10:18 Shannon’s Imposter Syndrome
- Rubric’s Cubed
- Avoid that Second Guessing!
- 00:18:54 BB 513 Outtro
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The post Just In Time Mania + Imposter Syndrome – Business Brain 513 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s the first Business Brain of 2024, and we ask the question: Are you a criminal but don’t know it? The federal government just rolled out the new Beneficial Ownership Information Act and wants to get to know your company better. Join us as we discuss the reporting requirements of BOI and the joys of becoming friends with the Financial Crimes Enforcement Network.
But first, we want to share with you some tips about managing employees’ needs when it comes to borrowing money to get by in between paychecks. Let’s go!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #512 for Wednesday, January 3rd, 2024
- 00:01:16 How not to give loans to employees
- Payroll Advances in Business Brain 240
- 00:05:47 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:07:41 Happy New Year, Are You A Criminal?
- 00:17:07 BB 512 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post Happy New Year – Are You a Criminal? Business Brain 512 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
How good are you at spotting scams? You might be surprised that even the most tech-savvy among us can fall victim to fraud. Listen in as Dave Hamilton shares his experience with a recent scam that could have cost him $25K.
Then, as we get ready to start 2024, Shannon is ready to start a new experiment with a Business Advisory company to productize his knowledge and to help other Small Business owners succeed. Stay tuned as he builds-in-public and reports back on the process of this new venture during 2024. Shannon is looking for a few business owners who would like a free consultation as he works out the details for the business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #511 for Wednesday, December 27th, 2023
- 00:01:07 My Bank Saved My A$$ (and $25,000!)
- 00:06:24 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:08:00 Shannon is launching a new company: ReBound Business Advisors.
- Shannon will help you for free for thirty minutes
- 00:15:11 BB 511 Outtro
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The post Bank Scams and a New Business for Shannon – Business Brain 511 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
People are important. Dave and Shannon discuss the benefits of increasing your social and business circles on this episode of Business Brain, followed by a discussion about putting off tough decisions if your business is failing.
One of the least discussed benefits of building a business is hiring people you will enjoy working with daily. Listen in to hear our take on this critical benefit of entrepreneurship. Then we have some harsh reality for a friend who is putting off the inevitable failure of their business. Do we think they are using the proper framework for the problem? Join us to learn more!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #510 for Wednesday, December 20th, 2023
- 00:01:00 Host Dogsgiving…and other social things
- Hack your productivity: delegate, automate, or both!
- 00:06:03 SPONSOR: Gusto: Visit Gusto.com/BusinessBrain to get three months of payroll, benefits admin, and more TOTALLY FREE.
- 00:07:40 Soft Years, Slow Business…How Will Yours Survive and Thrive?
- 00:13:51 Slight Edge Of Fear
- 00:19:35 BB 510 Outtro
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The post Should You Kill Your Business? Business Brain 510 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
There are two critical topics discussed on this episode of Business Brain:
- Always ask for the NO.
- What happens when change punches you in the face?
Listen in to this episode as we slice and dice these topics and more.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #509 for Casual Friday, December 15th, 2023
- 00:01:00 When selling, always ask for the “No”
- 00:05:59 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:07:57 Imagine if Dave left BB
- 00:18:56 What do we name this episode?
- 00:20:35 BB 509 Outtro
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The post Change is Coming. Are You Ready? Business Brain 509 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Let’s talk about what is standing in the way for you to succeed. That’s the intro topic for episode 508 of Business Brain. Then, we jump into our main topic of defining a Noble Cause to help better connect and motivate yourself, your employees, vendors, investors, bankers, and customers.
Joint us for 19 minutes that could change your life!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #508 for Wednesday, December 13th, 2023
- 00:01:02 Catalyzing Growth In Your Business
- 00:03:14 What’s In Your Way?
- 00:06:01 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:07:57 What is your Noble Cause?
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:13:01 BB’s Noble Cause: Helping Listeners Take That Next Step in Your Entepreneurial Journey
- 00:15:18 Mac Geek Gab’s Noble Cause: Teaching The World How to Solve Computer Problems
- 00:19:00 BB 508 Outtro
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The post Finding Your Noble Cause – Business Brain 508 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us for episode 507 of Business Brain! We start the show by introducing a concept called the people pyramid for entrepreneurs. It represents the different types of people one should surround oneself with. We have supporters at the base of the pyramid – close friends, family, and business partners who are always there for us. Moving up, we have advisors such as accountants and mentors. We also mention industry peers and competitors. Next, we have professionals like bankers, attorneys, and insurance agents. And at the very top, we reserve it for naysayers, non-believers, and vampires. This concept can help us identify the people in our network who lift us up and those who don’t and determine how much time we want to spend with specific individuals.
We then address a question about unique selling propositions (USP) and discuss the importance of having a USP and not competing solely on price. We delve into finding a USP for your business, emphasizing that it needs to be specific, simple, provable, and something customers will value. We discuss examples like using high-quality materials or demonstrating product durability while stressing the importance of simplicity in delivering your USP due to the limited time you have to capture someone’s attention. We mention other industry examples and discuss the importance of supporting claims with evidence, data, and testimonials.
Overall, the episode focuses on the people pyramid concept for entrepreneurs and the importance of having a unique selling proposition to stand out in a competitive market. Join us to learn more!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #507 for Casual Friday, December 8th, 2023
- 00:01:07 People Pyramid
- Too Many Vampires
- 00:08:41 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:35 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year.
- 00:12:35 What is your USP (Unique Selling Proposition)?
- Greg Mercer from JungleScout on Business Brain
- Embed testimonials in your product photos
- 00:23:29 BB 507 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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The post What is your USP? Business Brain 507 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Amidst our live streaming conversation, we touch upon the topic of incorporating video into our podcast. The potential of expanding our presence on platforms like YouTube holds great appeal, and we explore the opportunities it presents for reaching a wider audience. Furthermore, this episode is sponsored by Shopify and Fastmail, two remarkable platforms that provide immense value to online businesses. Shopify offers a powerful platform enabling entrepreneurs to sell their products online effortlessly, while Fastmail stands out as an email service provider emphasizing privacy, efficiency, and customization. As a special treat for our listeners, both sponsors offer exclusive deals and discounts.
Shifting gears, we delve into the realm of parenting lessons from none other than Charlie Munger, the esteemed co-founder of Berkshire Hathaway. Munger’s father instilled in him the significance of serving problematic clients, a valuable lesson in ensuring stability and supporting one’s family. This resonates with the idea that businesses are fundamentally problem-solvers, as without problems to solve, there can be no business. We stress the importance of embracing this concept and building teams around it.
Drawing inspiration from Munger’s teachings, we discuss the significance of gratitude and reciprocity. One particular lesson involves Munger always returning a borrowed car with a full tank of gas. Charlie’s act of appreciation showcases the impact of caring for others and the importance of reciprocating support and kindness. Small gestures can leave a lasting impression and create positive impacts on those around us. It’s vital to value and appreciate the assistance and support we receive from others.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #506 for Wednesday, December 6th, 2023
- 00:01:06 Live Streaming
- Shannon on X Spaces on FutureCasting (more at SJTips.com)
- BB on Streamyard (and YouTube and more!)
- 00:05:29 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:07:20 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year.
- 00:09:18 Life advice from Charlie Munger
- 00:21:16 And a single life tip from Warren Buffett
- 00:23:18 BB 506 Outtro
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The post The Wisdom of Charlie Munger – Business Brain 506 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into the strategies for managing chaos and staying productive. Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they discuss the positive side of chaos and how to maneuver your way through to a positive outcome.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #505 for Casual Friday, December 1st, 2023
- 00:00:56 Processing Chaos with Calculus
- 00:03:36 Trusting Your Experience with Getting Through the Chaos
- Let Yourself Off The Leash
- Create your To-Did List
- Systems with Milestones in BB503
- What’s On Your To-Did List (in BB 215)
- Apps to track your to-did list
- Timing
- Rewind App
- 00:14:06 Chuck: Go Read (and almost certainly update) your bios!
- Use ChatGPT to write your bio for you
- DaveHamilton.com
- ShannonJean.com
- 00:17:38 BB505 Outtro
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The post Outsmarting Chaos – Business Brain 505 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of the Business Brain podcast, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean reflect on their experiences during the Thanksgiving holiday. Dave shared that he could disconnect from work and enjoy a break while Shannon visited a new property. They are preparing for guests and found physical activities helpful in disconnecting. The hosts encourage their listeners to share their own holiday experiences.
Moving on to business dealings, Dave discusses potential buyers for his other business and mentions one who had unrealistic expectations about the time commitment required. This leads to a discussion about the importance of answering questions about why the business is being sold and its future growth plans.
Dave delves into the questions that potential buyers often ask, focusing on why the seller doesn’t implement certain strategies themselves to increase the value of the business. Drawing parallels to selling a house, the speaker emphasizes the need to answer these questions before deciding to sell. Shannon stresses considering the motivation and energy required to take the business to the next level and highlights the value of having partners for grounding and risk diversification. Shannon advises running the business as if it were to be sold tomorrow, addressing any issues, and ensuring it is in good shape.
Join us as we take a deep dive into a different view of running your business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #504 for Wednesday, November 29th, 2023
- 00:02:44 Accidentally Selling Yourself On Your Business
- 00:11:42 Processing the sale…emotionally
- 00:14:57 Watching Other People Keep Your Story Alive
- 00:20:07 BB504 Outtro
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The post Selling (Yourself On) Your Business – Business Brain 504 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In episode 503 of Business Brain, we discuss the debate between goal-setting and establishing systems. We emphasize the power of systems and the importance of consistently adapting them over time. I share a personal experience with redefining portion sizes for health reasons and highlight the benefits of incorporating milestones within a system.
We also touch on the application of systems in various aspects of business, including employee development, and announce the launch of our Business Brain Productivity course. We briefly discuss the process of selling a business and the impact of choosing the right M&A firm.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #503 for Wednesday, November 22nd, 2023
- 00:00:46 Starlink Sierras
- 00:01:30 Goals vs. Milestones
- Podcast: How to Take Over the World
- 00:09:06 COURSE: Beat the “Busy Fallacy.” Visit BusinessBrainCourses.com/free and get the first two productivity lessons absolutely free. No credit card required to sign up or anything!
- 00:10:47 Finding the right broker when selling your business.
- 00:22:22 BB503 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
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- Dave on X: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on X: @ShannonJean
The post Wrong Business Broker = 50% Loss – Business Brain 503 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us for episode 502 of Business Brain to hear about one of the most potent motivation systems we have ever found: Reverse Storytelling. After we dive into this for personal use, we then break down the systems used in Story Branding for your business. This could be the most crucial podcast you listen to this year!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #502 for Casual Friday, November 17th, 2023
- 00:00:40 Course Feedback Feedback
- FAIL = First Attempt In Learning
- 00:06:47 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year
- 00:08:33 Reverse Storytelling
- 00:14:07 Story Branding
- Sell comfort, sell security, sell dreams
- 00:17:11 BB502 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Shannon on X: @ShannonJean
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on X: DaveHamilton.com
The post Reverse Storytelling + Story Branding – Business Brain 502 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Who is your ideal customer? Are you focusing your marketing dollars in the right direction? Join us for episode 501 of Business Brain as we answer listener questions about developing an Ideal Customer Profile.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #501 for Wednesday, November 15th, 2023
- 00:01:02 Winner: Tony Ieronimo
- 00:02:58 Robert-499-The best AIs for me are Bard for copy and Firefly for Images
- 00:07:15 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year
- 00:09:02 Tony-Should I create an ICP (Ideal Customer Profile)?
- 00:18:25 BB501 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on X: @ShannonJean
The post Finding Your Ideal Customer Profile – Business Brain 501 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s our 500th episode! Join us as we discuss the journey from our first episodes back in 2015 to today. We discuss the power of persistence and listener feedback. Reach out and share your thoughts on the evolution of our show – we would love to hear from you!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #500 for Casual Friday, November 10th, 2023
- 00:01:44 In 500 Episodes We Learned…Nothing Stays The Same
- Good ol’ Authorize.net
- And PayPal and Stripe
- 00:06:46 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:08:22 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today! https://shopify.com/businessbrain
- 00:10:12 Persistence Pays!
- 00:11:58 Analyze Your Business Regularly
- Guru to listen to your meetings
- 00:17:03 BB500 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post What Have We Learned in 500 Episodes? Business Brain 500 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Are you using AI to enhance your productivity at your business? If not, why not? Listen in today for episode 499 of Business Brain, where we jump into some of the latest AI tools that we think you should be using.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #499 for Wednesday, November 8th, 2023
- 00:04:16 Productivity Course Follow-up
- Visit BusinessBrainCourses.com/free for your free course!
- 00:07:27 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:09:04 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:10:54 How we’ve been using AI
- DALL-E 3
- Create your own GPT
- Data Analysis GPT from OpenAI
- OpenAI “Negotiator” AI from ChatGPT
- ChatGPT Math Mentor
- 00:21:00 How have you been using AI?
- 00:21:04 BB499 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter/X: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post You’re More Productive With AI – Business Brain 499 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
We live in an age where answering the phone is a competitive advantage. Good communication is a crucial part of success and a huge opportunity to stand out from your competitors. Join Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as they discuss the why and how of keeping the information flowing between your business and your customers.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #498 for Casual Friday, November 3rd, 2023
- 00:02:17 Manage your BADHD (Business ADHD) by Maintaining Short and Long-Term Projects
- 00:04:23 COURSE: Beat the “Busy Fallacy.” Visit BusinessBrainCourses.com/free and get the first two productivity lessons absolutely free. No credit card required to sign up or anything!
- 00:04:49 The Key Is To Start
- 00:06:39 Communication as a Competitive Advantage
- The Painter Who Played Me
- 00:18:43 BB498 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Communication as a Competitive Advantage – Business Brain 498 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us this week for episode 497 of Business Brain, where we dive into the concept of the best methods to get help and how to turn asking for help into a superpower. Make your customers, suppliers, and even your competition feel important by asking them for help. Listen in and fine-tune your brain with Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #497 for Wednesday, November 1st, 2023
- 00:00:57 Will-493-Solving People Problems with Technology
- 00:05:31 Robert-493-Screentime Might Not Be All Great…and Get Our There and Speak To Promote Your Business
- 00:08:10 COURSE: Beat the “Busy Fallacy.” Visit BusinessBrainCourses.com/free and get the first two productivity lessons absolutely free. No credit card required to sign up or anything!
- 00:10:04 “I Need Help” Costs nothing
- 00:12:26 Make your customers feel important by asking for their help
- 00:15:24 Coopetition – use the power of reciprocity
- 00:18:01 BB497 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Asking For Help Costs Nothing – Business Brain 497 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have been tuning Business Brains for 496 episodes over eight years. This week, we launch our first course series to certify you as a productivity master. Listeners can get the first two lessons for free and then upgrade to the seven-day, nine-day, or go all in with the Master Class course to get one-on-one with your hosts to discuss your specific productivity goals. Let’s go!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #496 for Causal Friday, October 27th, 2023
- 00:01:14 Take Yourself on a Productivity Retreat
- Focused Podcast with David Sparks and Mike Schmitz
- 00:07:42 PODCAST: This Week In Tech: Every week, This Week in Tech gives you a no-holds-barred, deep dive into how big tech influences our culture and our lives.
- 00:08:36 Visit BusinessBrainCourses.com/free for the first two productivity lessons
- 00:13:47 BB496 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on X/Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Business Brain Productivity Power Up! – Business Brain 496 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Which is the most effective leadership strategy, leading by earning respect or by using fear with your team? Join us this week as we discuss how there might be a little more fear going on than you realize, even when you are trying to use the respect and trust leadership technique.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #495 for Causal Wednesday, October 25th, 2023
- 00:02:41 Quartet Agile Glass Dry-Erase Easel
- 00:06:06 PODCAST: This Week In Tech: Every week, This Week in Tech gives you a no-holds-barred, deep dive into how big tech influences our culture and our lives.
- 00:07:01 Leadership Styles Analysis
- Fear-based Leadership
- Trust-based Leadership
- 00:17:42 BB495 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on X/Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Leading by Fear or Respect – Business Brain 495 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Soft Skills for managers and leaders are essential to business and personal success. This week on Business Brain, we ask our audience if these skills are teachable or if you must be born with them. Traits like empathy, a sense of humor, being a good listener, and friendliness. Can these be taught? Listen in to hear our take!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #494 for Casual Friday, October 20th, 2023
- 00:01:02 Robert-How to manage increasing customer expectations?
- Whistle, Workhorse, and the Whale – Episode 445
- 00:07:17 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year
- 00:08:57 Can anyone become good at being a manager?
- Friendly
- Optimistic
- A good listener
- Empathy
- Sense of humor
- Peter Principle
- 00:15:35 BB494 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Can You Teach Soft Skills? Business Brain 494 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is Pacing and Leading, and how can you use it to become a more impactful leader and better people manager? Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they discuss how to read the room and use this technique to build credibility and productivity.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #493 for Causal Wednesday, October 18th, 2023
- 00:01:11 The upside of lots of Screentime
- 00:11:03 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider that puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year
- 00:12:43 Pacing & Leading
- 00:23:00 BB493 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Pacing and Leading – Business Brain 493 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we dive into the concept of reusing knowledge and content. We start by stressing the importance of continuously improving our collective business brain and invite our listeners to share their thoughts and experiences with us.
We then discuss a note from a listener named Jeffrey, who shared an intriguing article about CEO Dave Clark. Clark was removed from his position at Flexport, but instead of viewing it as a failure, he updated his LinkedIn profile and moved Flexport to the education section. We commend Clark for his humility and the valuable lesson he learned from this experience. This news has gained considerable exposure, and it prompts us to reflect on the mistakes we have made in our own businesses.
We emphasize the significance of learning from these mistakes and shifting our perspective to view them as educational opportunities.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #492 for Casual Friday, October 13th, 2023
- 00:00:52 Jeffrey-Dave Clark moved a failure into his LinkedIn “Education” section
- 00:04:32 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:06:31 Knowledge Is Reusable
- BB492 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain 99 – Best Interviews
The post Failure as Education + Knowledge is Reusable – Business Brain 492 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the concept of cost segregation studies and its potential benefits for property owners. They explain how cost segregation allows property owners to identify and depreciate assets that won’t last the full depreciation period, resulting in increased tax benefits.
They share a quote from an attorney about the importance of thoughtful decision-making in business, stressing the need for a balance between careful consideration and avoiding analysis paralysis. The hosts suggest taking action when certain about a decision but also acknowledge the value of pausing to gather information before deciding.
Moving forward, the hosts discuss the significance of taking action, even if it means choosing not to take action, and draw parallels to the lyrics of a Rush song. They emphasize the importance of considering the impact of a decision and differentiating between major and day-to-day choices. Dave and Shannon caution against constantly delaying decisions by fixating on future possibilities.
The conversation takes a personal turn as the hosts share their experiences with empowering themselves and their staff to make decisions. They suggest setting a spending limit for oneself to solve problems swiftly and efficiently, freeing up time and mental bandwidth. They reflect on lessons learned from past mistakes and stress the importance of not getting caught in analysis paralysis.
Towards the end of the episode, the hosts introduce the concept of recency bias and discuss its implications in business decision-making. They invite listeners to share examples of how recency bias applies in their own businesses and whether they have to be extra cautious based on the level of risk.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #491 for Wednesday, October 11th, 2023
- 00:02:11 Cost Segregation Study – A way of accelerating depreciation of real estate
- 00:07:19 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:09:18 Haste Makes Malpractice… for all businesses (if you know what to do, do it. If you don’t, cogitate)
- “If You Choose Not To Decide, You Still Have Made a Choice”
- 00:14:15 Empower Yourself to Solve Problems
- 00:19:03 BB491 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER:
The post Cost Segregation Studies + Haste Makes Malpractice – Business Brain 491 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What’s the best way to introduce change to your business? Are big changes easily embraced or are there better methods to get everyone onboard? Listen in as we discuss resistance to change before jumping into a discussion about opening closed minds to new ideas – with your customers.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #490 for Casual Friday, October 6th, 2023
- 00:01:04 Why Change? Because Change Is Hard
- Business Brain on Change
- Changes Aren’t Permanent, But Change Is
- 00:05:36 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year
- 00:07:29 How To Open The Minds of Closed-Minded Customers?
- Adam from VAM Band on Gig Gab
- “We’re the only band you’ll book that has an understudy for every position”
- 00:19:28 BB490 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Opening Minds of Close-Minded Customers – Business Brain 490 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Let’s talk about how to scale and systemize your business on episode 489 of Business Brain! We will also jump back into the Silver Tsunami concept and how you can prep your business for sale – with a focus on SDE. What’s SDE? Listen in to learn!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #489 for Wednesday, October 4th, 2023
- 00:01:42 Transitions are harder than the result
- Factor Meals ease the stress of the kitchen remodel
- 00:08:31 SPONSOR: Fastmail, the email provider who puts your privacy first. Visit Fastmail.com/BusinessBrain for 10% off your first year https://fastmail.com/BusinessBrain
- 00:10:20 Robert-What Processes To Put In Place To Better Scale My Business? (aka Prep your Silver Tsunami business for sale)
- Create onboarding “course” for your employees with Thinkific
- Garry VonMyhr on Business Brain
- 00:16:40 SDE – Seller Discretionary Expenses on Business Brain 409
- 00:22:01 BB489 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Scale it and Sell it! Business Brain 489 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Problems got you down? Constantly stressed about putting out fires at your business? Employees stressed out in your Customer Service department? We have a solution for you. Listen to episode 488 of Business Brain, where we discuss the Problem-Solving Framework that will change your perspective and change your life.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #488 for Casual Friday, September 29th, 2023
- 00:01:12 Eric-485-Finding a Buyer can Be Tough
- 00:03:17 Patrick-485-The Silver Tsunami is Real
- 00:08:20 PODCAST: TWIT’s Apple-focused shows: MacBreak Weekly, iOS Today, and Hands-On Mac, all at TWIT.tv/Apple
- 00:09:28 Every business is in the problem-solving business
- Those problems are the opportunities
- The Obstacle Is The Way
- BB487 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Problem Solving Framework- Business Brain 488 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s time to talk about bad news! What is the best way to handle sharing bad news with your employees and customers, and how about with your investors or bankers? Join us today as we dive into the best ways to minimize the impact of bad news.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #487 for Wednesday, September 27th, 2023
- 00:00:55 Backing off of “Permanent” Change … The Slack Example
- 00:07:17 PODCAST: TWIT’s Apple-focused shows: MacBreak Weekly, iOS Today, and Hands-On Mac, all at TWIT.tv/Apple
- 00:08:25 Sharing Bad News
- Know Your Audience
- Don’t Hesitate to Share Bad News
- Never Apologize
- Use Two Tokens to Get Them On Your Side
- 00:18:19 BB487 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post How to Share Bad News – Business Brain 487 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s another Casual Friday episode of Business Brain! Join us as we discuss how talking about your mistakes can build credibility faster than your successes. Then, we discuss one of the significant and often unspoken benefits of starting a business: building a community of people you will often spend more time with than your family. Listen in to tune your Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #486 for Casual Friday, September 22nd, 2023
- 00:00:56 Failures and Mistakes Connect Better Than Success Stories
- 00:07:05 SPONSOR: Fast Growing Trees. Save 15% off your entire order at FastGrowingTrees.com/BusinessBrain, but only through October 15th!
- 00:08:36 Unspoken Benefit of Starting a Business: Creating Your Community/Extended Family
- 00:14:18 BB486 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Build a Business and Build a Community – Business Brain 486 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What’s better, buying a business or starting your own? Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean in discussing the pros and cons of building or buying on episode 485 of Business Brain. Listen in to also hear about Shannon’s Starlink experience at his new short-term rental property!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #485 for Wednesday, September 20th, 2023
- 00:01:32 Starlink Experiences
- 00:10:54 SPONSOR: Fast Growing Trees. Save 15% off your entire order at FastGrowingTrees.com/BusinessBrain, but only through October 15th!
- 00:12:23 Better to Buy a Business or Start a Business
- The Safety of Seller Financing!
- 00:23:35 BB485 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post To Build or Buy a Business – Business Brain 485 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s a grab bag of topics for this Casual Friday episode of Business Brain!
Shannon shares his experience with a contractor who doesn’t make appointments: “Everything is an emergency in my business.” Then, we discuss a listener email about hiring employees as contractors to start, and we wrap up the show with some terrific contract language that Dave was presented with recently. Join us, and together we can fine-tune our Business Brains!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #484 for Causal Friday, September 15th, 2023
- 00:01:01 No, you cannot make an appointment. I prioritize emergencies.
- 00:04:23 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, sign up for a one-dollar-per month trial period at Shopify.com/BusinessBrain and take your business to the next level today!
- 00:06:12 David-481-Test the “First Employee” Waters with a contractor-by-the-hour
- 00:12:24 Clauses to Avoid Litigation!
- 00:20:37 BB484 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Employees, Contracts and Emergencies – Business Brain 484 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us for episode 483 of Business Brain to discuss the power of perseverence and tenacity when building your business. We then jump into a discussion about what to do when your business becomes commoditized. Don’t think it can happen to your business? Think again. Listen in and tune your […]
The post Tenacity and Commoditization – Business Brain 483 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the concept of “no phone Friday” for improved focus and productivity. We address imposter syndrome and the importance of self-awareness. We talk about transparent salary expectations in hiring and working with spouses. Our sponsor, FastGrowingTrees.com, offers a 15% discount to listeners. Lastly, […]
The post Working With Your Spouse – Business Brain 482 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
When is the right time to hire your first employee? How do you decide what role they need to play? Do you need a salesperson, an admin, or an assistant? Listen in to episode 481 of Business Brain to hear your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, discuss this topic and more!
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the importance of work-life balance for entrepreneurs. We share our recent staycation experience and the concept of “structured enjoyment.” We also talk about hiring the first employee and building an online presence.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #481 for Wednesday, September 6th, 2023
- 00:01:04 Take a Staycation!
- 00:08:45 SPONSOR: Fast Growing Trees. Save 15% off your entire order at FastGrowingTrees.com/BusinessBrain, but only through October 15th!
- 00:10:42 Robert-First Employees
- Business Brain 356
- Hiring a Salesperson…or an Assistant!
- Or, hire a generalist who is just a talented person.
- 00:17:41 BB481 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Hiring Your First Employee – Business Brain 481 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On this episode of Business Brain, we discuss how artists are monetizing their stories through storytelling in the music industry. We highlight our sponsors, Miro and Zinch, for their collaboration and lending services. We share personal experiences with imposter syndrome and the importance of seeking external input and collaboration. Listeners are encouraged to provide feedback and share their own experiences with imposter syndrome for a chance to win a MacBook.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #480 for Casual Friday, September 1st, 2023
- 00:01:12 The Business of Snoop Dogg
- 00:06:37 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:08:19 SPONSOR: Zinch. A direct lender that makes financing fast, simple, and built around your needs. Zinch is waiving their $250 application fee for BB listeners when you sign up at FinancingThatWorks.com
- 00:09:58 Managing Imposter Syndrome
- 00:18:59 BB480 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Business of Snoop + Imposter Syndrome – Business Brain 480 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the emotional impact of leaving a leadership role and offer valuable advice on finding fulfillment afterward. We emphasize the importance of building your own community, taking small steps toward goals, and creating a positive environment. We also share insightful ideas from James Clear inviting listeners to watch the linked video for more insights.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #479 for Wednesday, August 30th, 2023
- 00:01:07 Claude 2 AI LLM allows you to upload files for it to parse/process
- 00:02:44 Jeff-Grieving the loss associated with a good decision
- 00:07:41 SPONSOR: Miro is your team’s visual platform to connect, collaborate, and create — together. Your first 3 Miro boards are free forever when you sign up at Miro.com/podcast.
- 00:09:24 SPONSOR: Zinch. A direct lender that makes financing fast, simple, and built around your needs. Zinch is waiving their $250 application fee for BB listeners when you sign up at FinancingThatWorks.com
- 00:11:03 James Clear-You Don’t Have To Be The Victim of Your Environment, You Can Be The Architect Of it
- Atomic Habits
- 00:20:40 BB479 Outtro https://businessbrain.show/
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Tips from Atomic Habits Author James Clear – Business Brain 479 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is Slippery Math, and how can it help you live a pre-tax lifestyle? And should you be focused on focusing? Listen in and learn why Shannon doesn’t want you to fall into the Focus Trap.
Join us for episode 478 of Business Brain, where we tune our brains together each week!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #478 for Friday, August 25th, 2023
- 00:01:03 Slippery Math
- Pre-Tax Lifestyle
- Charmed Life
- 00:07:50 SPONSOR: Zinch. A direct lender that makes financing fast, simple, and built around your needs. Zinch is waiving their $250 application fee for BB listeners when you sign up at FinancingThatWorks.com
- 00:09:29 Focus Trap
- Sometimes It’s Good To Go With The Flow
- 00:15:37 BB478 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- Dave on Mastodon: @DaveHamilton@PodcastIndex.Social
- Dave on Bluesky: DaveHamilton.com
- Shannon on Twitter: @ShannonJean
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Slippery Math and The Focus Trap – Business Brain 478 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss strategies for avoiding procrastination and maximizing productivity. We share our personal experiences and emphasize the importance of self-awareness. We also explore the benefits of using X-Twitter for personal and business branding, including the use of lists and growing followers. Listen in for […]
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It’s Casual Friday on Business Brain! Listen in as we discuss the Barefoot Investor series of books for adults and kids to learn about finance and money. Then it’s on to a discussion about attracting luck in your business and personal life. It’s a great way to spend a few […]
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss various topics, including surge protection, e-commerce platforms, understanding website visitors, transitioning from employee to shareholder, and personal growth in business. We share personal experiences, insights, and recommendations to help tune our Business Brains together. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #475 […]
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Are you a Pro at Procrastination? Join us for episode 474 of Business Brain for tips on fighting the battle to get stuff done. We then jump into a discussion about using your Business Brain to turn your kids into extraordinary adults. Join us! 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ […]
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In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into various topics related to technology, marketing, and personal development. We start by discussing the availability of Apple Business Essentials through CDW, a tech company specializing in smart home setups. We also explore the use of URL shorteners and tracking URLs for […]
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Are you using your Business Brain to secretly manage people and projects outside of work? If not, why not? Listen in today as we share a listener tip on using your management skills to increase the success of projects and people in your everyday life. This same listener also reminds […]
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In episode 466 of Business Brain, we discussed David Morris’ ideas about why being different is better than being better when making sales. We connected with David, and he agreed to come on today’s episode to discuss the how and why of learning and implementing this contrarian sales framework. Listen […]
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It’s Casual Friday on Business Brain! Join your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, discussing their favorite business software tools. Oh, and Dave has another contractor story that you won’t want to miss! 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #470 for Friday, July 28th, 2023 00:01:24 Delegate the “Oh Crap” […]
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On today’s episode of Business Brain, we explore the topic of welcoming and onboarding new employees. We came across a tweet from Harris Fanaroff that provides 16 quick wins for creating a positive onboarding experience. These tips range from welcoming new hires on a Thursday or Friday to make their […]
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In this episode of Business Brain, we delve into the importance of being in service to your employees as a business owner. We believe that it’s not just about money, but about recognizing and appreciating the perks and benefits that employees value. We encourage our listeners to create a list […]
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss handling inappropriate social media posts by employees, the importance of mindful online content sharing, and the value of embracing a beginner’s mind. Cultivating a beginner’s mind can enhance our interactions and collaborations. Share your experiences and tools for maintaining a beginner’s mind […]
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How well do you know your ABDs? On this episode of Business Brain, your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, dive into a discussion about the power of Always Be Different. First, it’s a case study of how AriZona Iced Tea keeps its 99-cent price point during inflation and how […]
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What happened to downtime? When should you leave your phone behind, and what is all the hoopla around No Phone Friday? Listen to this episode to hear our thoughts on unplugging and how it can change your life. Then, we jump into a listener question about when to consider changing […]
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Join us this week for episode 464 of Business Brain! We discuss the importance of training yourself, your customers, and your employees to battle Labor Perception Bias when getting paid for your work. Then we jump into why a Positive Outlook is a Force Multiplier for Success. Listen to your […]
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In this episode of Business Brain, we discuss the importance of dedicated “play time” for exploration and research. We address a listener’s question about lightweight CRM tools and recommend options like FileMaker, monday.com, and Salesforce. We introduce Notion as a sponsor and highlight their new feature, Notion Projects. We express […]
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Should you be using ChatGPT to help with business legal issues? Join us for episode 462 of Business Brain to discuss AI legal advice’s pros and cons and learn about a law firm offering to review AI suggestions. Then it’s on to a very important question after you close a […]
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Everyone has a story about a contractor not billing them for work completed. Why does this happen, and what steps can you take to avoid this issue? Listen in to Business Brain for a discussion on billing and getting paid, followed by a revisit to our famous Customer Service Maxim […]
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Being in control of your time is the ultimate flex! Join us for episode 460 of Business Brain as we tune our minds into the concept of flexible time being a huge superpower for us all to strive for. Then we jump into the concept of Balanced Comparison, where looking […]
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Join us today for an important episode of Business Brain, where we dive into a series of Tweets by Naval Ravikant. Learn how to exponentially impact your ability to find success and build wealth with these tips. It’s a great episode to learn how to Tune our Business Brains! 00:00:00 […]
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Join us for episode 458 of Business Brain as we discuss one of the greatest unrealized methods to improve your life and build wealth. Learn why a simple side hustle or a multi-million dollar business can take advantage of tax benefits to help you enrich your world. Don’t miss these […]
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Do You Trust Your “Taste”? How do you learn what good taste is, and can you refine it over time? Join us for episode 457 of Business Brain, where we learn from Steve Jobs and Rick Rubin about what taste really is, how to get it, and how to improve […]
The post Steve Jobs, Rick Rubin, Good Taste and Imposter Syndrome – Business Brain 457 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Will Apple’s new Vision Pro “spatial computer” impact your business? What opportunities are coming our way as AI and new devices create new ways for you to interact with your customers? Shannon and Dave take a deep dive into the possibilities while at the same time, they discuss 2023 being […]
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What terms should never be said at work? Join us as we discuss the Six Things Not to Say at Work on this episode of Business Brain! 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #455 for Wednesday, June 7th, 2023 00:01:55 David-Six Things Not to Say at Work It’s Not […]
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The ability to act swiftly, make decisions promptly, and prioritize tasks effectively can be the defining factor between success and mediocrity. In this episode of Business Brain, we will explore the importance of cultivating a sense of urgency in your business and provide strategies for instilling this mindset within your […]
The post Driving Results: Cultivating a Sense of Urgency in Your Business – Business Brain 454 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Effort is the critical backbone of business success, often overlooked amidst discussions on strategy, innovation, and capital. It’s the engine that drives entrepreneurs toward their goals, turning dreams into tangible realities.
Join us for episode 453 of Business Brain to discuss effort, how to set examples, and reward success at your business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #453 for Wednesday, May 31st, 2023
- 00:01:45 We’re Hustlers! We Put In The Effort!
- 00:06:05 SPONSOR: Checkr. Get fast, comprehensive background checks so you can hire with confidence. Visit Checkr.com/BusinessBrain to save $40 off your first background check.
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- 00:09:10 Keeping Your Effort Level Up
- What about those who are unwilling to pay the price?
- 00:11:43 Can we instill this into our teammates, employees, and partners
- Always Be Following-Through!
- 00:18:32 BB 453 Outtro
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- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
The Power of Effort: Fueling Success in Your Business
Introduction:
In the realm of business, success is often attributed to a combination of factors such as strategy, innovation, and market conditions. While these elements undoubtedly play significant roles, one fundamental ingredient can make or break your business: effort. The dedication, persistence, and hard work invested by you and your team are crucial for achieving sustainable success. In this article, we will explore the importance of effort and provide practical examples of encouraging and rewarding it within your organization.
The Foundation of Success:
Effort forms the bedrock upon which success is built. The driving force propels you forward, even in the face of challenges. Without effort, even the most brilliant ideas and strategies can remain dormant, never reaching their full potential. Effort transforms aspirations into achievements and transforms dreams into reality.
Encouraging Effort:
1. Foster a Culture of Purpose: Clearly communicate your business’s mission and vision, providing a sense of purpose that inspires your team. When individuals understand how their efforts contribute to a larger goal, they are likelier to go the extra mile.
- Set Challenging Goals: Establish ambitious yet attainable goals that stretch your team’s capabilities. Goals should be specific, measurable, and time-bound, providing a roadmap for progress. Encourage employees to set personal goals aligned with the organization’s objectives.
- Celebrate Milestones: Recognize and celebrate both individual and team accomplishments along the way. Acknowledge the effort invested in reaching milestones, reinforcing the value of hard work. Publicly commend achievements through team meetings, internal newsletters, or social media.
- Provide Growth Opportunities: Invest in your employees’ professional development by offering training programs, workshops, and mentorship opportunities. Empower them to enhance their skills and expand their knowledge, fostering a growth mindset and a desire to improve continuously.
Rewarding Effort:
1. Performance-Based Incentives: Implement a reward system to recognize exceptional effort. This can include financial incentives, bonuses, or profit-sharing plans. Ensure that the rewards are meaningful and aligned with individual and team goals.
- Non-Financial Recognition: Monetary rewards are not the only way to acknowledge effort. Offer non-financial incentives such as extra paid time off, flexible work arrangements, or the opportunity to lead special projects. Tailor the rewards to individuals’ preferences and aspirations.
- Employee Appreciation Programs: Establish a culture of appreciation by implementing programs that allow team members to recognize and appreciate each other’s efforts. Peer-to-peer recognition can boost morale and foster a positive work environment.
- Career Advancement Opportunities: Promote a clear path for growth and advancement within your organization. Offer opportunities for promotion or additional responsibilities based on merit and demonstrated effort. Provide mentorship and guidance to help employees progress in their careers.
Conclusion:
Effort is the lifeblood of business success, driving innovation, productivity, and resilience. By nurturing a culture that values and rewards effort, you create an environment where individuals are motivated to give their best. Encouraging effort through purpose, goal-setting, recognition, and growth opportunities enhances individual performance and cultivates a thriving organization.
Remember, external factors do not solely determine success but are rooted in the daily actions and determination of those involved. Effort fuels progress breeds success, and propels your business to new heights.
External Resources:
1. The Role of Effort in Business Success
2. Recognizing and Rewarding Employee Effort
The post Effort Equals Success: Business Insights for Entrepreneurs – Business Brain 453 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Celebrating milestones, acknowledging employees’ contributions, and rewarding employees that share your company values. These are all tactics that not only boost morale but also promote a healthy work culture. Join us for episode 452 of Business Brain as we dive into how to celebrate at your business!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #452 for Friday, May 26th, 2023
- 00:01:13 The Plateau is the least favorite
- 00:02:53 Remember to Celebrate Business Milestones
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:07:00 SPONSOR: Found. Business banking that tracks your expenses, helps you find write-offs, tracks your income, calculates your taxes, and then saves the right amount so you’re not scrambling at tax time. Signup for free at Found.com/brain today.
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- 00:10:28 Celebrating Signing Day (The Boldt Company)
- 00:12:55 Garry VonMhyr’s TechDefenders on Business Brain
- 00:15:18 BB 452 Outtro
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- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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Celebrating Milestones & Rewarding Employees: The Cornerstones of Strong Company Culture
In the contemporary business world, fostering a thriving company culture is no longer optional but an integral part of business success. The celebration of company milestones and employee rewards plays a critical role in building this powerful culture. These actions foster employees’ sense of belonging and recognition and drive their motivation and commitment to the organization.
Celebrating company milestones is more than just acknowledging the passage of time; it’s an affirmation of hard work, dedication, and progress. These events give teams an opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate their collective achievements, fostering a sense of shared success and camaraderie (1). A case in point is Google’s celebration of significant events, such as company anniversaries and product launches, contributing to its well-known positive work environment (2). This creates a positive feedback loop, as recognizing past achievements builds confidence in tackling future challenges.
Rewarding employees is another crucial element in fostering a strong company culture. Employees who feel appreciated are more likely to be engaged, motivated, and committed to their work (3). A study from the University of Warwick found that recognized employees have a 12% increase in productivity (4). This is exemplified by companies like Starbucks, which have comprehensive employee recognition programs which have significantly contributed to their high employee satisfaction rates.
A combination of both – celebrating milestones and rewarding employees – forms an unbeatable formula for cultivating a dynamic and robust company culture. It builds a sense of community, promotes a positive work environment, fosters loyalty, and drives innovation. Companies can leverage these strategies to improve their bottom line, as numerous studies have shown a positive correlation between strong company culture and increased productivity, lower turnover, and improved customer satisfaction.
In conclusion, businesses need to celebrate their milestones and reward their employees to create a thriving, productive, and loyal workforce. These practices humanize the workplace, giving it a soul and energy that drives success. It’s more than just good business – it’s the key to creating an environment where employees love to work and grow.
References:
1. OfficeVibe. “The Importance Of Celebrating Company Milestones.” https://www.officevibe.com/blog/importance-of-celebrating-company-milestones
2. Google Inc. “Our Culture.” https://about.google/intl/en_us/our-culture/
3. Gallup. “Employee Recognition: Low Cost, High Impact.” https://www.gallup.com/workplace/236441/employee-recognition-low-cost-high-impact.aspx
4. University of Warwick. “New Study Shows We Work Harder When We Are Happy.” https://warwick.ac.uk/newsandevents/pressreleases/new_study_shows/
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In this follow-up episode to our Red Flag discussion, we hear from you about what Red Flags you have encountered when making decisions. Listen in as Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss these topics and more on episode 451 of Business Brain.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #451 for Wednesday, May 24th, 2023
- 00:01:49 Jeff-Red Flags: Avoiding Attorneys and Clients with Legal “Flexibility”
- 00:07:17 SPONSOR: Found. Business banking that tracks your expenses, helps you find write-offs, tracks your income, calculates your taxes, and then saves the right amount so you’re not scrambling at tax time. Signup for free at Found.com/brain today.
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- 00:10:44 Red Flag: An Employee Who Appears Eager to Take a “Huge” Pay Cut
- 00:15:14 I Sued Someone At My Prior Job
- 00:17:02 BB 451 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain 376: The Superpower Of Compartmentalizing Your Thoughts
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Navigating Hiring Red Flags: Trusting Your Gut Instincts
In the business world, hiring is one of the most critical functions, acting as a linchpin to your organization’s ultimate success or failure. However, it is fraught with complexities and potential pitfalls, with one of the most significant being red flags during the interview process. Identifying and navigating these red flags is essential to effective hiring and can save your organization a lot of pain and wasted resources down the line.
One red flag to watch out for is a prospective employee willing to take a significant pay cut. This scenario was expertly discussed in an episode of the Business Brain Podcast, where the host recounted his experience interviewing candidates during the COVID-19 lockdowns in the winter of 2021. The thought of a highly-qualified candidate willing to accept a much lower salary can seem tempting, but it could also be indicative of underlying issues. While it’s commendable for someone to prioritize work culture, role alignment, or remote work opportunities, a drastic reduction in salary may lead to dissatisfaction and regret in the long term.
Another potential red flag is a candidate currently involved in legal proceedings with their former employer. As they pointed out in the podcast, this can distract the candidate and be a precursor for future legal complications within your organization. Engaging with such a candidate could potentially entangle your business in a web of litigation.
When assessing these red flags, trusting your gut instincts is essential. Intuition can provide valuable insights into a candidate’s suitability for a role. However, backing your instincts with concrete data and observations is equally vital. For example, watch out for how potential hires interact with others during the interview process, especially service staff. This could provide clues to their character and how they would treat colleagues if hired (Source).
Listening to your instincts should also involve carefully considering potential issues rather than immediately dismissing the candidate. For example, if prospective employees are willing to take a significant pay cut, consider their reasons and evaluate whether their passion for the role and the organization could outweigh the potential risk. Similarly, if a candidate is involved in a lawsuit with a previous employer, delve deeper into the situation before making a judgment. There may be legitimate reasons for their actions.
Ultimately, navigating hiring red flags is a delicate balancing act. It involves assessing each situation individually, relying on intuition, and making judgments based on instincts, observations, and factual data. The key is to approach each red flag not as a definitive deal-breaker but as an opportunity for further investigation and understanding.
Further Reading:
1. “Trust Your Gut: How All Business Owners Can Harness the Power of Instinct.” [Link]
2. “Hiring Red Flags: Top Managers Reveal the Biggest Warning Signs.” [Link]
3. “Compartmentalizing in Business: The Superpower You Didn’t Know You Needed.” [Link]
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Can you use Costco’s persuasion strategies in your business? You can and on this episode of Business Brain, we dive into Costco’s 7 Principles of Persuasion as presented by Joe Portsmouth. Here’s a rundown of the strategies your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discussed:
- Reciprocity: Costco utilizes this principle by offering free samples to customers. Providing something for free creates a sense of obligation and reciprocity in customers to make a purchase.
- Commitment and Consistency: The consistent store layout and the familiarity of the shopping experience at Costco reinforce customers’ commitment to the brand. This principle encourages customers to continue shopping at Costco due to the predictability and familiarity of the experience.
- Social Proof: Costco creates the perception of popularity and value by having busy stores and long lines. When customers see others shopping at Costco, they are more likely to believe that it offers good deals and value, making them inclined to shop there.
- Authority: Due to Costco’s large buying power, customers perceive the brand as an expert in obtaining the best deals. This authority status contributes to customers’ trust in Costco’s pricing and product selection.
- Liking: Costco emphasizes friendly and helpful customer service, which makes customers feel valued and creates a positive shopping experience. Costco enhances customer loyalty and trust by fostering a likable and customer-centric environment.
- Scarcity: The perception of scarcity is used by Costco to increase the value of its products. Customers are motivated to make purchases when they believe the items may not be available. Costco’s clearance codes, such as items with prices ending in “7,” indicate products likely to be discontinued.
- Unity: The warehouse-style store layout and the shared experience of shopping at Costco create a sense of unity among customers. The feeling of being part of a group or community that values the Costco shopping experience reinforces customer loyalty and encourages repeat visits.
Listen in as we steal Costco’s strategies to grow your own business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #450 for Friday, May 19th, 2023
- 00:01:52 Costco’s 7 Principles of Persuasion (from @Joe_Portsmouth)
- 00:03:15 Reciprocity
- 00:06:09 Commitment and Consistency
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- 00:10:57 Social Proof
- 00:11:52 Authority
- 00:13:39 Buying Kirkland Clothes!
- 00:14:50 Liking
- 00:15:29 Scarcity – If the price ends in “7”, it’s going away SOON.
- 00:16:23 Unity
- Costco Cult
- 00:17:19 Shannon’s Number 8: $1.50 Hot Dog and Soda
- 00:18:01 BB 450 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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In episode 449 of Business Brain, we delve deep into the art of recognizing red flags in business relationships. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share invaluable insights on how to navigate potential pitfalls and build successful client relationships. From understanding the importance of clear communication to recognizing the signs of a problematic partnership, this episode is a must-listen for entrepreneurs, business leaders, and anyone interested in fostering healthy business relationships. Tune in to learn how to protect your business interests, enhance client satisfaction, and ultimately drive your business growth.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #449 for Wednesday, May 17th, 2023
- 00:02:03 Joe-What Red Flags Tell you to Avoid a Client?
- 00:04:34 SPONSOR: Found. Business banking that tracks your expenses, helps you find write-offs, tracks your income, calculates your taxes, and then saves the right amount so you’re not scrambling at tax time. Signup for free at Found.com/brain today.
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- 00:07:37 PODCAST: On Good Authority. The podcast about publishing a book that makes you an authority and helps you transform your business.
- 00:08:33 Finding and Using Red Flags
- Trust Your Gut
- Repeated Failure
- Am I Going To Enjoy Working With This Customer?
- The Beer Test
- Constant Complaints about Quality or Price
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:16:57 Firing a Client
- We Can’t Meet Your Needs
- I Don’t Have Time
- FileMaker
- 00:21:01 BB 449 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
“Recognizing Red Flags in Business Relationships: A Must-Listen Episode of Business Brain for Every Business Owner”
In the ever-evolving world of business, one constant remains: the importance of building and maintaining healthy relationships. This is the central theme of episode 449 of the popular podcast, Business Brain. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and advice on recognizing red flags in business relationships, making it an essential listen for business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders alike.
The episode begins with a deep dive into the significance of clear communication in business relationships. The hosts discuss how a lack of transparency or a consistent breakdown in communication can be a major red flag. They emphasize the importance of open, honest, and regular communication to ensure all parties are on the same page and working towards the same goals.
Next, the episode explores the concept of mutual respect and understanding in business relationships. The hosts highlight how a lack of respect or understanding can lead to a problematic partnership. They share real-life examples and provide practical tips on how to navigate such situations, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries and standing up for your business interests.
One of the most enlightening segments of the episode is the discussion on the signs of a one-sided business relationship. The hosts caution listeners about partners who take more than they give, whether in terms of time, resources, or effort. They offer advice on how to address such situations and how to seek balance in business relationships.
The episode wraps up with a discussion on the importance of shared values and goals in a business relationship. The hosts stress that a misalignment in values or objectives can be a significant red flag, potentially leading to conflicts and misunderstandings down the line.
Listening to this episode of Business Brain is beneficial for business owners for several reasons. Firstly, it equips them with the knowledge to recognize and address red flags in business relationships. Secondly, it provides practical advice and strategies that can be applied to their own business relationships. Lastly, it emphasizes the importance of healthy business relationships in driving business growth and success.
In conclusion, episode 449 of Business Brain is more than just a podcast episode. It’s a masterclass in recognizing red flags in business relationships, making it a must-listen for anyone looking to build successful and healthy business partnerships. Tune in to protect your business interests, enhance client satisfaction, and ultimately drive your business growth.
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How do you react when a salesperson uses the “this deal expires when I leave” method to try and force you to buy from them? Today on Business Brain, we discuss the problem of scarcity and why it’s better to sell abundance. Shannon and Dave also jump into a conversation about why it’s important to keep your mouth shut and read the room when trying to make a sale. Listen to learn!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #448 for Friday, May 12th, 2023
- 00:01:18 Beware Your Use of Scarcity
- 00:09:11 SPONSOR: Found. Business banking that tracks your expenses, helps you find write-offs, tracks your income, calculates your taxes, and then saves the right amount so you’re not scrambling at tax time. Signup for free at Found.com/brain today.
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- 00:12:16 Keep Your Mouth Shut
- 00:16:35 Read the room, focus on abundance
- 00:19:37 BB 448 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Scarcity
Scarcity is a popular selling tactic that plays on the fear of missing out (FOMO). The idea behind scarcity is to create a sense of urgency and encourage customers to take action quickly. However, while scarcity can be an effective way to increase sales, it also has its drawbacks.
Pros of Using Scarcity:
- Increased Sales: One of the biggest advantages of using scarcity is that it can lead to increased sales. When customers feel like they might miss out on a product or service, they are more likely to make a purchase.
- Sense of Urgency: Scarcity creates a sense of urgency and encourages customers to act quickly. This can be particularly effective when there is a limited supply of a product or a time-limited promotion.
- Boosts Brand Perception: By creating a sense of exclusivity, scarcity can help to boost a brand’s perception. Customers may perceive the brand as more valuable or desirable if they feel like they are getting something that is in high demand.
Cons of Using Scarcity:
- Ethical Concerns: Using scarcity as a selling tactic can be seen as manipulative and unethical. It can create a false sense of urgency and pressure customers into making a purchase they may not have made otherwise.
- Damage to Brand Reputation: If a brand consistently uses scarcity to sell products, it may damage its reputation. Customers may feel like they are being tricked or taken advantage of, which can lead to negative reviews and a decrease in sales over time.
- Unintended Consequences: Using scarcity can also have unintended consequences. For example, if a brand advertises a product as limited edition, but then continues to sell it after the initial promotion, customers may feel like they were misled and lose trust in the brand.
In conclusion, while scarcity can be an effective selling tactic, it’s important to use it with caution. Brands should consider the potential ethical concerns and unintended consequences before implementing this strategy. It’s also important to balance the use of scarcity with other marketing techniques to create a well-rounded marketing campaign that benefits both the brand and the customer.
Keep Your Mouth Shut
In the world of sales, the old saying “you have two ears and one mouth, so listen twice as much as you speak” couldn’t be more accurate. Keeping your mouth shut and actively listening to your customers during the sales process is crucial for success. Here’s why:
- Better Understanding of Customer Needs: When you listen to your customers, you gain a better understanding of their needs and pain points. This allows you to tailor your sales pitch to meet their specific needs, making it more likely that they will be interested in your product or service.
- Building Trust and Rapport: By actively listening to your customers, you build trust and rapport. Customers want to feel like they are being heard and understood, and when you take the time to listen to them, it shows that you care about their needs and are invested in their success.
- Identifying Objections: When you keep your mouth shut and listen, you’re more likely to identify objections that your customers may have. This allows you to address these objections head-on and overcome them, making it more likely that the customer will make a purchase.
- Closing More Sales: Ultimately, listening during the sales process can help you close more sales. By understanding your customers’ needs and objections, building trust and rapport, and addressing any concerns they may have, you increase the likelihood that they will make a purchase.
In conclusion, keeping your mouth shut and actively listening during the sales process is essential for success. By doing so, you gain a better understanding of your customers’ needs, build trust and rapport, identify objections, and ultimately close more sales. Remember, the more you listen, the more you’ll learn, and the better equipped you’ll be to provide solutions that meet your customers’ needs.
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Magic Phrases and Sentence Stems can vastly improve communication in your business. Use them in your sales department to close more deals, in your customer service department to solve problems more effectively, and as part of a system of best practices throughout your company. On this episode of Business Brain, Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton share Jesse Pujji’s Sentent Stem concept combined with Magic Phrases – powerful words to learn more about.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #447 for Wednesday, May 10th, 2023
- 00:02:00 What’s going on with the economy?
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- 00:05:59 SPONSOR: Found. Business banking that tracks your expenses, helps you find write-offs, tracks your income, calculates your taxes, and then saves the right amount so you’re not scrambling at tax time. Signup for free at Found.com/brain today.
- 00:07:22 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 60 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN60.
- 00:09:01 Jesse Pujji’s Sentence Stems – The templates for your verbal systems!
- Make them part of your culture!
- 00:18:40 BB 447 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Two Tokens of Customer Service – Business Brain 118
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
As a sales professional, your ability to communicate effectively can make or break your success. Knowing how to craft persuasive language that resonates with your customers is an invaluable skill. One way to achieve this is by using “Magic Phrases” that have been proven to increase sales. In this article, we’ll discuss several Magic Phrases that can help you close deals and grow your business.
- “Imagine if…”
Starting your sales pitch with “Imagine if…” can be a powerful way to capture your customer’s attention and get them to envision a better future. This Magic Phrase taps into the power of visualization, allowing your customer to picture how your product or service could make their life easier or better. For example, if you’re selling a weight loss program, you might say, “Imagine if you could lose 10 pounds in just one month, without feeling hungry or deprived.” - “What would it mean to you if…”
Another effective Magic Phrase is “What would it mean to you if…” This phrase helps your customer focus on the benefits of your product or service and how it could improve their life. For example, if you’re selling a home security system, you might say, “What would it mean to you if you could leave your home without worrying about break-ins or theft?” This phrase helps your customer see the value of what you’re offering and how it could positively impact their life. - “Just to clarify…”
Clear communication is essential in sales. Using the Magic Phrase “Just to clarify…” can help ensure that your customer understands your pitch and is on the same page as you. This phrase allows you to restate important points, answer questions, and clarify any confusion your customer may have. For example, if you’re selling a new software product, you might say, “Just to clarify, our software includes a user-friendly interface and 24/7 customer support.” - “How can I help you?”
One of the most important aspects of sales is building rapport with your customer. Using the Magic Phrase “How can I help you?” shows that you’re interested in your customer’s needs and want to provide them with the best possible solution. This phrase also encourages your customer to share their concerns and challenges, allowing you to tailor your pitch to their specific needs. For example, if you’re selling a marketing service, you might say, “How can I help you improve your online presence and generate more leads?” - “The good news is…”
In sales, it’s important to emphasize the positive aspects of your product or service. The Magic Phrase “The good news is…” allows you to highlight the benefits of what you’re offering and put a positive spin on any challenges or concerns your customer may have. For example, if you’re selling a new product that’s more expensive than your competitors, you might say, “The good news is that our product is made with higher quality materials, which means it will last longer and require less maintenance.”
Using these Magic Phrases can help you communicate more effectively with your customers and increase your chances of closing a sale. By tapping into the power of visualization, emphasizing the benefits of your product or service, clarifying important points, building rapport with your customer, and highlighting the positive aspects of what you’re offering, you can create persuasive language that resonates with your customers and helps you achieve your sales goals.
Further reading:
– 10 Magic Phrases to Instantly Improve Your Sales (HubSpot)
– The Power of Persuasion: 6 Magic Phrases Top Salespeople Use (Inc.)
– How to Use Magic Phrases to Get More Sales (Salesforce)
The post Magic Phrases and Sentence Stems – Business Brain 447 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On this episode of Business Brain, we discuss how to find and connect with a mentor, along with listener comments about the real-world use of AI programs to automate and enhance your business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #446 for Friday, May 5th, 2023
- 00:02:28 Robert-How I Use AI in My Business
- ChatGPT
- Adobe Firefly
- Canva AI Image Generation
- Summarize Tech
- 00:09:13 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:10:38 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Head to FACTORMEALS.com/brain40 and use code brain40 to get 40% off your first box.
- 00:12:00 Ahkeens-How do I find a mentor?
- SCORE
- Find a Mentor!
- 00:18:44 BB 446 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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Business Brain is a podcast by, for, and about entrepreneurs. In this episode, hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the importance of utilizing one’s business brain to improve their lives and lead a charmed life. They also recognize Small Business Week and mention how Amanda Palmer’s use of Patreon to run her life is inspiring.
Then it’s on to a discussion about pricing strategies using a three-part strategy known as the whistle, the workhorse, and the whale, as described by Will Green.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #445 for Wednesday, May 3rd, 2023
- 00:01:29 Happy Small Business Week!
- 00:02:19 I Want More Email…And I Think You Do, too
- Amanda Palmer
- 1000 True Fans
- 00:08:30 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:09:55 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Head to FACTORMEALS.com/brain40 and use code brain40 to get 40% off your first box.
- 00:11:16 PODCAST: On Good Authority. The podcast about publishing a book that makes you an authority and helps you transform your business.
- 00:12:07 The Whistle, The Workhorse, and The Whale
- Greg Mercer from Jungle Scout on Business Brain
- The Value of Reciprocity
- 00:20:34 BB 445 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Whistle, The Workhorse and The Whale – Business Brain 445 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Does being a “nice guy” hurt you when negotiating deals? Dave shares his follow-up with the buyer of the MacObserver and counts is “pre-paid” Tuition. We then dive into an update on the AI apps that we are using to blow up conventional methods of running our businesses. Join us for another casual Friday episode of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #444 for Friday, April 28th, 2023
- 00:01:31 Pre-Paid Tuition: “You’re A Nice Guy.”
- 00:08:16 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers so they stay being customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:10:07 More AI Tools for your business
- Link Zoom and Otter.ai for Zoom Call Agenda and Highlights
- Rewind.ai
- Swell.ai
- Whisper
- ChatGPT
- 00:18:57 BB 444 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain 118: Two Tokens of Customer service
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Learn from mistakes.
We all make mistakes. It’s part of the learning process, and it’s important to recognize that mistakes can be valuable tools for growth. This is something that Dave Hamilton recently experienced. Dave is a frequent visitor to flotation tanks, where he has a membership and goes once a month to relax and clear her mind. During his last visit, a thought came to him: he had sold the Mac Observer last year to another company. He had handled the negotiations and was aware of some of the mistakes He had made, but he hadn’t learned the lessons yet.
Dave realized that the only reason he hadn’t reached out to the person he had negotiated the deal with was his fragile ego. He knew that she had already paid the tuition for the mistakes he had made, and that nothing would change if he asked for more information. So, he decided to reach out and ask what mistakes he had made. To his surprise, the person he had negotiated with said he was perfect. While this was nice to hear, Dave had called for more honest feedback.
Through this experience, Dave learned an important lesson: it’s important to learn from our mistakes. Whether it’s a business deal, a relationship, or something else, it’s important to be willing to ask questions and open ourselves up to criticism. Even if it’s uncomfortable, it can be a valuable learning experience. We should be willing to take risks and learn from our mistakes. By doing so, we can grow and become better versions of ourselves.
Record conversations for future reference.
Recording conversations can be a great way to learn from our mistakes and gain valuable insights. By having a record of a conversation, we can go back and review it later to gain a better understanding of what was said and what we could have done differently. We can also use these recordings to better understand the context of a conversation and the dynamics between people. This can help us to better understand our relationships and how we can better communicate with others.
Additionally, recordings can be a great way to document important conversations and decisions for future reference. This can be especially useful for businesses, as it can help them to track progress and identify areas for improvement. It can also help to ensure that everyone is on the same page and that all decisions are well-informed.
Overall, recording conversations can be a great way to learn from our mistakes and gain valuable insights. By having a record of our conversations, we can go back and review them later to gain a better understanding of what was said and what we could have done differently. We can also use these recordings to document important conversations and decisions for future reference. So, if you’re looking for a way to learn from your mistakes and gain valuable insights, consider recording your conversations.
AI will change everything.
With the advances in artificial intelligence, we are now able to use AI to transcribe and analyze conversations. AI-powered transcription services like Otter.ai, Rewind.ai, and Swell.ai are making it easier than ever to record and transcribe conversations. These services can also be used to create searchable databases, chat bots, and other useful tools. AI can also be used to create product titles and descriptions, optimize search engine results, and even generate limericks.
The possibilities of AI are endless, and it’s clear that AI will change everything. AI can help us to save time, make better decisions, and be more productive. It can also help us to create better customer experiences, automate mundane tasks, and make more informed decisions. AI will continue to revolutionize the way we work, and it will be interesting to see how far it can go. AI will undoubtedly be a game-changer in the near future, and businesses must be prepared to use it to their advantage.
Solve customer problems effectively.
One of the most important ways AI can help businesses is to solve customer problems effectively. AI can be used to create chatbots that can answer customer questions quickly and accurately. This can help improve customer satisfaction and loyalty, as customers will be able to get the answers they need quickly and without any hassle. AI can also be used to analyze customer data and provide insights into customer behavior, which can help businesses better understand their customers and create better experiences. AI can also be used to automate customer service tasks, such as ticketing and customer follow-ups, which can help businesses save time and money.
AI can also be used to create personalized customer experiences. AI can analyze customer data and create tailored experiences that are tailored to the individual customer. This can help businesses increase customer satisfaction and loyalty, as customers will feel like they are being catered to. AI can also be used to create personalized marketing campaigns, which can help businesses increase their reach and engagement.
Finally, AI can be used to create smarter search results. AI can analyze customer data and search terms to create more relevant search results that are tailored to the individual customer. This can help businesses increase their visibility and reach, as customers will be able to find what they are looking for quickly and easily.
In conclusion, AI can help businesses solve customer problems effectively. AI can be used to create chatbots, analyze customer data, automate customer service tasks, create personalized customer experiences, and create smarter search results. AI is a powerful tool that can help businesses create better customer experiences and increase their visibility and reach. Businesses must be prepared to use AI to their advantage in order to stay competitive in the future.
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What is more important for your success? Seeking justice in a situation that may take months of time and significant financial resources. Or focusing on solving a problem quickly so you can move on to the next opportunity. Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean today as they discuss the steep price of Justice.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #443 for Wednesday, April 26th, 2023
- 00:01:49 The Rental from Hell
- 00:07:21 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers so they stay being customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:09:13 Justice-Seeking vs. Productivity. Pick One.
- Beware of getting sucked into negativity
- You’re eating the poison thinking it’s going to hurt the other person
- Two Tokens of Customer Service
- 00:20:49 BB 443 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Use your business brain.
We all have a business brain, and it’s essential to use it in all areas of life. Business Brain is a podcast that encourages entrepreneurs to use their business skills to help them in their personal lives. On the show, we discuss scenarios sent in by listeners and use our business brains to help provide perspective.
Take, for example, the scenario of the “rental from hell” sent in by one of our listeners. A couple had moved out of Los Angeles to La Quinta, California to plan their wedding and work on other projects. They paid $52,000 upfront for the rent and security deposit. After they moved in, they realized the property was owned by the drummer of Guns N’ Roses, Frank Ferrer. They quickly realized the house was full of problems, from a leaking roof to a broken pool filter and a malfunctioning garbage disposal. The management company was not very responsive to their problems.
The couple used their business brains to handle the situation. They got creative and used the press to bring attention to their plight, and eventually the landlord offered to buy out the last half of their lease so they could move out. This is a great example of how using your business brain can help in difficult situations.
We all have our own business brains, and it’s important to use them in all areas of our lives. Whether it’s a business or personal problem, having a business brain can help us to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. It’s also important to remember that sometimes, the best solution is to work with the other party to come to a mutually beneficial agreement. By using our business brains, we can more effectively navigate difficult situations.
Seek justice, but expect payout.
A great example of this is the story of a group of tenants who were wronged by their property owner. Instead of simply accepting the injustice and moving on, they decided to seek justice and stay in the property on a month-to-month lease while they pursued accountability. This is an admirable action, and it speaks to the justice-seeking nature of many of us.
However, it’s important to remember that when seeking justice, we shouldn’t expect a perfect outcome. In fact, it’s more likely that we will receive a payout instead. This is something that Shannon, the speaker in the podcast, learned firsthand. After being involved in three lawsuits, she was told by her attorneys that justice is rarely served. Instead, they said that the best outcome to expect is a decent payout.
This is an important lesson to remember. We should always seek justice, but we should also expect a payout if we do. To do this, we must use our business brains to think outside the box and come up with creative solutions. We should also remember that working with the other party to come to a mutually beneficial agreement is often the best solution. By doing this, we can more effectively navigate difficult situations and ensure that justice is served.
Seek productivity, not justice.
In my own experience, I have seen how seeking justice can be a distraction from productivity. A few years ago, I was involved in a lawsuit over a piece of software that was critical to our business. We had invested a lot of time and money in it, and the other party was trying to take it away from us. We had to fight for our rights, and it was a long and expensive process. Even though we eventually won, it was a massive distraction and cost us a lot of time and money.
The lesson I learned from this experience is that it is important to seek productivity instead of justice. We should always strive for justice, but it is not always worth it to go down the road of litigation. It can be expensive, time consuming, and emotionally draining. Instead, it is important to look for creative solutions that will benefit both parties. Negotiating with the other party, seeking mediation, and finding other ways to mitigate the situation are often better solutions.
In conclusion, seeking justice is important, but it is not always the best solution. We should always look for creative solutions that will benefit both parties. By doing this, we can ensure that justice is served without sacrificing our productivity.
Mitigate, don’t sue.
The phrase “mitigate, don’t sue” is a great way to think about resolving conflicts. In the podcast, the speaker talks about how he was sued by someone who was trying to hurt him. He could have easily walked away, but instead he chose to engage. He chose to try and find a path out of the situation. This is a great example of how we should approach conflicts.
When faced with a conflict, it is important to look for creative solutions that will benefit both parties. Instead of resorting to lawsuits, we should look for ways to mitigate the situation. This could mean coming to an agreement, negotiating a settlement, or finding a compromise. By doing this, we can ensure that justice is served without sacrificing our productivity.
The speaker in the podcast also talks about how important it is to move on once a conflict has been resolved. He talks about how he often had to have conversations with employees about not letting customers get away with something. He emphasizes the importance of not letting a conflict take up too much of our time and energy.
The phrase “mitigate, don’t sue” is an important reminder that there are other ways to resolve conflicts. We should always look for creative solutions that will benefit both parties. This will ensure that justice is served without sacrificing our productivity. By doing this, we can ensure that we are living a charmed life.
The post What’s More Important, Justice or Productivity? Business Brain 443 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
On this April 21st, 2023 episode of Business Brain, the show for entrepreneurs, Robert shares his stress-relieving practice of taking a lunchtime walk or morning bike ride to help him deal with intense work demands. Dave and Shannon discuss the importance of time shifting and how flexible schedules can be beneficial. They also talk about the feedback they receive from viewers, which is why they do the show, and how each message sent in is entered into a drawing for a MacBook Air.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #442 for Friday, April 21st, 2023
- 00:02:01 Robert-440-Consider Using Exercise as Your Opportunity to Change Perspective
- 00:05:03 Bill-435-Fraud, a Legal Definition
- 00:09:02 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:11:01 Jeff-When is it time to Unpivot?
- 00:18:45 BB 442 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain Episode 236 – Garry VonMhyr’s 80% Rule
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Time shift to find success.Time shifting is an important tool for entrepreneurs and business owners to find success. It is the ability to adjust one’s work schedule and lifestyle to maximize productivity and efficiency. Time shifting can provide entrepreneurs and business owners with the flexibility to work when they are most productive and reduce stress.
One of the major benefits of time shifting is that it allows entrepreneurs and business owners to work when they are most productive. For example, Robert, a one-man graphic designer, takes a 20-minute lunchtime walk around the block with his dog during the winter months and a one-hour bike ride along the ocean in the spring and fall months. This allows him to stay fit and relax, while also helping him to come up with his best ideas.
Another advantage of time shifting is that it can help reduce stress. Working during the same hours every day can become monotonous and lead to burnout. By taking breaks throughout the day, entrepreneurs and business owners can recharge and refocus their energy. Additionally, taking time off in the evenings or on the weekends can give entrepreneurs and business owners the opportunity to spend time with family and friends, which can help reduce stress and improve mental health.
Finally, time shifting can help entrepreneurs and business owners to be more efficient. By working during their peak hours, entrepreneurs and business owners can get more done in a shorter amount of time. Additionally, taking breaks throughout the day can help to keep the mind fresh and focused, allowing for better decision-making and problem-solving.
In conclusion, time shifting is a valuable tool for entrepreneurs and business owners to find success. It allows them to work when they are most productive, reduce stress, and be more efficient. By taking the time to adjust their work schedule and lifestyle, entrepreneurs and business owners can maximize their productivity and find success.
Trust employees and pay on time.Trusting employees and paying them on time is also essential to a business’s success. Delaying payroll sends a terrible message to employees about how the business prioritizes its people and whether employees can trust the people running the business. It also creates a stupid risk. By not paying employees on time, businesses risk alienating their employees and losing their trust. Furthermore, many states have strict laws about when and how employers have to pay employees and failure to pay wages in the time required by the law is a criminal offense.
It is important for entrepreneurs and business owners to understand the importance of trust and timely payment of employees. By trusting and paying employees on time, businesses can build trust and loyalty with their employees. This will lead to a more productive and successful business.
Cash flow is essential.Cash flow is essential for any business. It is the lifeblood of any business, and it needs to be managed carefully. Without proper cash flow management, businesses can quickly become insolvent. It is important for businesses to have a cash flow plan in place to ensure that they have enough money to cover their expenses, pay employees, and purchase necessary materials.
Businesses must also be aware of the risks associated with cash flow. Cash flow can be affected by external factors such as changes in the economy, competition, and customer demand. Internal factors such as poor management, inefficient processes, and lack of financial planning can also affect cash flow.
It is important for businesses to monitor their cash flow and take steps to improve it. Businesses should track their daily and monthly cash flow, analyze their expenses, and look for ways to reduce costs. They should also review their pricing and sales strategies to ensure that they are generating enough revenue. Additionally, businesses should look for ways to increase their cash flow, such as by offering discounts or payment plans to customers.
Cash flow is essential for businesses to stay afloat and succeed. It is important for businesses to have a cash flow plan in place and to monitor their cash flow regularly. By doing so, businesses can ensure that they have the necessary funds to cover their expenses and pay their employees on time.
Delegate to grow business.However, it is also important for businesses to think about their long-term growth. A business cannot grow and succeed if it is not able to allocate its resources properly. This is where delegation comes in. Delegation is the process of assigning tasks and responsibilities to other people. By delegating tasks to other people, businesses can free up their own time and resources to focus on their core business operations and long-term growth.
Delegation can be a difficult process for many businesses, especially for those who are used to doing everything themselves. For example, a business owner who is used to doing all the programming, database design, and business continuity planning may be hesitant to delegate these tasks to someone else. However, delegation can be a powerful tool for businesses to accelerate their growth. By delegating tasks to other people, businesses can focus their own time and resources on the tasks that are most important for their growth.
In addition to freeing up time and resources, delegation can also help businesses build their credibility and reputation. Businesses can use social media, blogging, and AI to create content that will help them build their brand and establish themselves as experts in their field. This will help them to attract more customers and increase their profits.
Overall, delegation can be a powerful tool for businesses to grow and succeed. By delegating tasks to other people, businesses can free up their own time and resources to focus on their core business operations and long-term growth. In addition, delegation can help businesses build their credibility and reputation, which will help them attract more customers and increase their profits.
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David Moss from Thaces LLC is joining us on Business Brain to discuss operationalizing your business. Having worked in technology sales, executive management, and business development, David will explain how to go about creating and launching a business, including the options to consider for funding and how to validate a concept.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #441 for Wednesday, April 19th, 2023
- 01:12 GUEST: David Moss from Thasis LLC helps Operationalizing Your Business
- david.moss@thasis.com
- Lots of Build or Buy decisions
- 00:06:37 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:08:40 Operationalizing Your Business
- Validation – Find the Facts that You Have a Customer Base
- Price – What’s the value point where YOU can make money?
- Operationalizing the Company — What does the company need? Salespeople? Regulatory approval?
- Financing — How can I get grants, angel funding, private equity?
- 00:14:12 Successful entrepreneurs forget about trying to be creative
- 00:18:10 Don’t Avoid Spending Money
- Salesforce.com
- Microsoft Dynamics
- 00:24:52 BB 441 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Operationalize for business success.
Operationalizing a business is an important step to success. It involves taking a concept and turning it into an actionable plan. By understanding the process of operationalizing a business, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success.
David Moss has extensive experience in operationalizing businesses. He has worked in technology sales and executive management, and was responsible for business development at Siemens. When starting a new business within a company, it is important to come up with a concept, validate it, and figure out how to operationalize it. This includes deciding whether to build or buy.
Moss also has experience in operationalizing a business from a startup perspective. He helped start a medical device company that used AI technology to analyze X-rays pixel by pixel. By understanding the process of operationalizing a business, the company was able to validate the market and put together the right plan to move forward.
Operationalizing a business is an important step for entrepreneurs to take in order to be successful. It involves taking a concept and turning it into an actionable plan. By understanding the process of operationalizing a business, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success. David Moss’ experience in operationalizing businesses provides valuable insight on how to do it right.
Validate product before launching.
One of the most important steps in operationalizing a business is to validate the product. Before investing time and money into a concept, entrepreneurs should make sure that it is valuable and that there is a market for it. This can be done by researching the industry, talking to potential customers, and getting feedback from experts. By doing this, entrepreneurs can ensure that their product is both desirable and feasible.
Another important step is to understand the different ways to finance a business. While venture capital is often seen as the “gold standard” for financing, there are other avenues that may be more suitable for a particular business. For example, crowdfunding, angel investors, and grants are all viable options that entrepreneurs should consider.
Finally, entrepreneurs should understand the importance of marketing. While having a great product is important, it is only half the battle. The other half is getting the word out and connecting with potential customers. This can be done through digital marketing, networking, and other forms of outreach.
In conclusion, operationalizing a business is a complex process that requires careful consideration and planning. By validating the product, understanding the different ways to finance a business, and understanding the importance of marketing, entrepreneurs can increase their chances of success.
The post How to Operationalize Your Business with David Moss – Business Brain 441 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
This episode of Business Brain dives into the idea of changing one’s perspective and environment. Dave Hamilton from New Hampshire and Shannon Jean from California discuss how putting themselves in unfamiliar and outdoor settings has helped them to stay productive and focused. They also touch on Headspace and how listeners can try it for free for 30 days.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #440 for Friday, April 14th, 2023
- 00:01:02 The Power of Being Outside
- Get a Hot Tub
- Activate Your Default Mode Network
- 00:07:08 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:08:55 Moving to a Standing Desk
- Standing Desk Riser
- Standing Desk Floor Mat for your feet
- 00:15:45 BB 440 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain 132: Get our Working Agreement
The post Changing Your Perspective and Environment – Business Brain 440 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Business Brain listener Jeff asks what insurance he might need if he offers casual advice about his expertise. Join your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, as they explore what types of insurance you may need for your Business and why having an insurance resource on your board of advisors is critical.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #439 for Wednesday, April 12th, 2023
- 00:01:25 Jeff-Do I need insurance for my mistakes?
- 00:04:05 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:05:53 Limiting Your Liability
- Get an LLC!
- Get insurance to protect your employes…and also to protect your business from your employees
- Spicy Adjectives!
- Business Liability Insurance
- DoNotPay.com
- Get a good insurance agent!
- 00:17:23 BB 439 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- TRAILER: Business Brain 118 – The Two Tokens of Customer Service
This AI-created article may be helpful in researching additional information related to this episode of Business Brain:
Protect yourself with insurance.In addition to taking care of your mental health, it is also important to protect yourself with insurance. Insurance can help protect you from financial loss in the event of an accident or lawsuit. It can also help you to cover the cost of medical bills, legal fees, and other expenses.
When starting a business, it is important to set up an LLC (limited liability company) or corporation in order to protect yourself from any potential liabilities. An LLC or corporation will limit your liability so long as you are not negligent or intentionally misleading people. This is why many businesses use multiple LLCs when touring or hosting events. By setting up a separate LLC for each event, the most that can be lost in the event of a lawsuit is the gross receipts from that night’s event.
In addition to setting up an LLC, it is also important to purchase insurance to protect yourself, your business, and your employees. Insurance can help to protect you from any potential liabilities, as well as cover the cost of medical bills, legal fees, and other expenses. It is important to have a good insurance person on your board of advisors to help answer any questions you may have.
Finally, some clients may require you to hold insurance that indemnifies them against any mistakes you make while working on their behalf. This is why it is important to understand your client’s requirements and make sure you have the right insurance coverage.
In conclusion, it is important to take care of your mental health, as well as protect yourself with insurance. Setting up an LLC and purchasing the right insurance can help protect you from financial loss in the event of an accident or lawsuit. It is also important to understand your client’s requirements and make sure you have the right insurance coverage.
Get good insurance advice.Having a good insurance agent is an important part of protecting yourself financially. A good insurance agent can help you find the right coverage for your business and personal life. They can also help you save money on your personal insurance costs. Insurance agents get paid on commission regardless of which company you buy from, so they may be able to get you the best deal.
It is important to talk to your insurance agent about what-ifs, not just what happened. This will help you understand what kind of coverage you need and what kind of policy you should have in place. Additionally, it is important to make sure you have indemnification for legal fees in case you are sued.
Overall, it is important to get good insurance advice. Having the right coverage in place can help protect you from financial loss in the event of an accident or lawsuit. It is also important to talk to your insurance agent about what ifs, not just what happened, and make sure you have indemnification for legal fees. Taking the time to get a good insurance adviser can help you lead a charmed life.
The post Exploring the Most Important Insurance for Entrepreneurs – Business Brain 439 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
The Business Brain podcast, episode 438 for Casual Friday April 7th, 2023, discusses the benefits of using AI in both personal and business settings. The hosts discuss the use of chat GPT and encourage listeners to explore AI technology to enhance efficiency. Sponsored by Factor and Thinkific Plus, the hosts emphasize the importance of learning how to use AI in today’s world.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #438 for Friday, April 7th, 2023
- 00:01:23 You Must Develop your “AI Fu”
- ChatGPT
- 00:05:41 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Head to FACTORMEALS.com/brain50 and use code brain50 to get 50% off your first box.
- 00:07:10 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers so they stay being customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:08:47 Chat Prompt Ideas
- Swell.ai
- Bing AI
- HelpScout
- 00:19:07 BB 438 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Making AI Your Competitive Advantage – Business Brain 438 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In this episode of Business Brain, hosts Dave and Shannon discuss the common occurrence of people asking for advice on their business ideas. They discuss how success and failure are both parts of running one’s own business and how to handle these requests for advice. Along with their discussion, they also share sponsored content from Thinkific Plus and Factor Meals.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #437 for Wednesday, April 5th, 2023
- 00:01:13 Will you make my business successful?
- 00:05:26 SPONSOR: Factor, America’s #1 Ready-To-Eat Meal Kit, can help you fuel up fast with ready-to-eat meals delivered straight to your door. Head to FACTORMEALS.com/brain50 and use code brain50 to get 50% off your first box.
- 00:06:53 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers so they stay being customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:08:30 How can we be successful together?
- [YourName] The Advisor, the business.
- Equity
- Hourly Rate
- Monthly Retainer
- 00:17:25 BB 437 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated article may provide additional and helpful information about the topics in this episode.
Charge for expertise/advice.When it comes to offering advice or expertise, it is important to make sure that you are compensated for your time. Whether it’s through equity, an hourly rate, or a monthly retainer, it’s important to make sure that you are getting compensated for your services. This can help to ensure that you are not taken advantage of and that you are getting a fair rate for your services.
It’s also important to be clear about what you can offer and what you expect from the person you are offering advice to. This can help to ensure that there is mutual respect and understanding between both parties. This can help to ensure that there are no misunderstandings or miscommunications that could lead to a lawsuit or other legal issues.
Finally, it’s important to remember that your time is valuable and that you should be compensated for your services. Whether it’s through equity, an hourly rate, or a monthly retainer, it’s important to make sure that you are getting compensated for your services. This can help to ensure that you are not taken advantage of and that you are getting a fair rate for your services.
Get compensated with equity.Equity is an interesting option for compensation, as it can be far more valuable than a short-term payment. Equity can be a great way to ensure that you are getting a share of the profits from the business you are helping to advise. This can be especially beneficial if you are helping to launch a business, as you can benefit from the success of the business. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with equity, as it is not guaranteed.
When it comes to equity, it is important to make sure that you are getting a fair deal. It is also important to be aware of the different options available to you. For example, some people may opt for a percentage of each sale, while others may opt for equity. It is important to make sure that you are getting a fair deal and that the terms are clear.
It is also important to remember that there is no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to compensation. Different businesses may have different needs and different ways of compensating advisors. It is important to make sure that you are getting a fair deal and that you are comfortable with the terms of the agreement.
At the end of the day, it is important to make sure that you are getting compensated for your services. Equity can be a great way to make sure that you are getting a share of the profits from the business you are helping to advise. However, it is important to be aware of the risks associated with equity and to make sure that you are getting a fair deal.
The post Monetizing Your Business Brain – Business Brain 437 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Can we talk about Command and Control leadership styles? Yes, yes we can. Today we try to destroy the C&C style and convince you that you can make your company more valuable in countless ways by not being the gateway to getting things done with a strict Command and Control management style.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #436 for Friday, March 31st, 2023
- 00:01:19 Command and Control Leadership
- Command and Control Leadership is Dead
- 00:04:11 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:06:14 How are you using AI?
- 00:08:45 Reducing C&C in your Business
- Bob Grewal on Business Brain
- 00:15:02 BB 436 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
- Business Brain 118 – Two Tokens of Customer Service
This AI-generated article may help provide additional information and resources for the Command and Control leadership style discussed on today’s episode of Business Brain:
The Negative Aspects of Command and Control Leadership in Small Businesses
Command and control leadership is a style that emphasizes centralized decision-making, hierarchical structures, and strict control over employees. While this style of leadership may have been effective in the past, it is becoming less and less suitable for today’s small businesses. In fact, the negative aspects of command and control leadership can outweigh the benefits, hindering the growth and success of small businesses.
Here are some of the negative aspects of a strict command and control leadership style in small businesses:
- Lack of Creativity and Innovation
Command and control leadership discourages creativity and innovation. Employees are not encouraged to think outside the box or offer new ideas. This can lead to a stagnant company culture where employees do not feel valued or engaged. In today’s fast-paced business environment, creativity and innovation are essential for staying competitive.
- Reduced Employee Morale
Command and control leadership can lead to reduced employee morale. When employees feel like they are being micromanaged and not trusted, they are more likely to be disengaged and unhappy at work. This can lead to increased turnover rates and decreased productivity. Small businesses need to prioritize employee morale to retain talent and create a positive work environment.
- Slow Decision Making
In a command and control environment, decisions often have to go through multiple layers of management before being implemented. This slow decision-making process can hinder the growth and success of small businesses. In today’s rapidly changing business environment, small businesses need to be able to make decisions quickly to stay ahead of the competition.
- Ineffective Communication
Command and control leadership often results in ineffective communication. Employees are not encouraged to share their thoughts and ideas, leading to a lack of communication and collaboration. This can hinder problem-solving and decision-making, leading to missed opportunities and decreased efficiency.
- Gateway to Toxic Leadership
Command and control leadership can be a gateway to toxic leadership. When leaders prioritize strict control and obedience, they may be more likely to engage in abusive or bullying behavior. This can create a toxic work environment that damages employee morale and the company’s reputation.
In conclusion, small businesses need to avoid a strict command and control leadership style. Instead, they should prioritize creativity, innovation, employee morale, and effective communication. Small businesses should focus on creating a positive work environment where employees feel valued, engaged, and trusted. This can lead to increased productivity, faster decision-making, and a competitive advantage in the marketplace. By avoiding the negative aspects of command and control leadership, small businesses can create a culture of collaboration, creativity, and innovation that will help them thrive in the long run.
For further reading on leadership styles for small businesses, check out these resources:
- Small Business Trends: How to Choose the Best Leadership Style for Your Small Business
- Forbes: 10 Leadership Styles That Build Better Teams
- Inc.: The 5 Best Leadership Styles for Small Business Owners
The post Command and Control Leadership – Business Brain 436 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What happens when a business decides to hide the truth from its bank? Is it just unethical or could it also be illegal? Join us today for Business Brain episode 435 to hear this crazy story, and then you decide by contacting us.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #435 for Wednesday, March 29th, 2023
- 00:01:47 Fudging The Numbers…With Your Bank!
- 00:04:17 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:06:20 Holy Ethical Gymnastics, Batman!
- How would the bankers feel?
- How would your employees feel?
- 00:14:38 BB 435 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated article may provide additional resources for you regarding the business ethics topic discussed on this episode of Business Brain.
The Importance of Business Ethics for Small Businesses
Small businesses play a crucial role in the economy of any country. They generate employment, foster innovation, and contribute to the growth of the economy.
However, running a small business can be challenging, especially when it comes to competing with larger companies. In such a competitive environment, maintaining a reputation for ethical behavior can be the key to success.
Business ethics refers to the moral principles that govern the behavior of individuals and organizations in the business world. It involves making decisions that are fair, honest, and transparent. Ethical behavior in business is not only the right thing to do, but it can also be beneficial to small businesses in the long run.
The importance of business ethics for small businesses cannot be overstated.
Here are some reasons why:
Building Trust with Customers and Clients
Small businesses often rely on word-of-mouth recommendations and repeat business to stay afloat. Building trust with customers and clients is essential to maintaining a loyal customer base. By conducting business ethically, small businesses can create a positive reputation that will attract more customers and clients.
Attracting and Retaining Talented Employees
Small businesses often struggle to compete with larger companies when it comes to attracting talented employees. However, by maintaining a reputation for ethical behavior, small businesses can attract employees who share their values. Additionally, employees are more likely to stay with a company that is committed to ethical behavior.
Avoiding Legal and Financial Consequences
Small businesses are not immune to legal and financial consequences of unethical behavior. Violations of labor laws, environmental regulations, and other laws can result in fines and legal fees that can be crippling to a small business. By following ethical practices, small businesses can avoid costly legal and financial consequences.
Contributing to a Better Society
Small businesses are an integral part of their communities. By conducting business ethically, small businesses can contribute to a better society. For example, small businesses that engage in environmentally friendly practices can help to reduce pollution and promote sustainable living.
Long-Term Success
Small businesses that prioritize ethical behavior are more likely to succeed in the long run. By building a positive reputation for ethical behavior, small businesses can attract loyal customers and clients, talented employees, and investors who share their values.
In conclusion, business ethics is a vital component of any small business. By following ethical practices, small businesses can build trust with customers and clients, attract and retain talented employees, avoid legal and financial consequences, contribute to a better society, and achieve long-term success. Small business owners should make ethical behavior a top priority and strive to maintain a reputation for honesty, transparency, and fairness.
The post The Importance of Business Ethics – Business Brain 435 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us this week as we discuss being productive while traveling as Dave wraps up a 12-day work trip. Then it’s on to a listener question about collecting those pesky late invoices.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #434 for Friday, March 24th, 2023
- 00:01:15 Working on a travel schedule creates more efficient work habits
- Set a Timer!
- Create times to shift gears.
- Quartet
- 00:08:12 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers so they stay being customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:10:05 Robert-What are your favorite tips and tricks for collections?
- Timely Invoices
- Polite Persistence, reminders
- Dave’s Magic Phrase (listen to hear it!)
- Contact one of their employees
- 00:16:19 BB 434 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Working While Traveling and Receivables Best Practices – Business Brain 434 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us as we discuss hiring and firing practices on this episode of Business Brain! Keep your business compliant with laws and follow best practices to ensure you minimize the chances of problems after hiring or firing.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #433 for Wednesday, March 22nd, 2023
- 00:01:41 Mr. X-Addressing Racism Accusations When Hiring and Firing
- 00:10:54 SPONSOR: Thinkific Plus is a powerful training platform that lets you create materials to educate your customers, so they stay customers. Get one month of Thinkific Plus FREE at Thinkific.com/BusinessBrain today.
- 00:12:48 Hire SSSLLLOOOWWLLLYY
- Watch how people interact with wait staff
- Start an Intern Program
- What are you a nerd about?
- Tell me something unique I’ll remember about you.
- 90-Day Trial Period
- Bambee.com
- SCORE
- 00:25:06 BB 433 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Hiring and Firing Protected Classes – Business Brain 433 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Let’s talk about cash flow! What is it, why it’s so important, how to plan for it, and more. Dave and Shannon take a deep dive into managing your cash for success and what to do when things don’t go exactly as planned (because they won’t).
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #432 for Friday, March 17th, 2023
- 00:01:56 Robert-What is Cash Flow?
- 00:06:17 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:10:17 More Cash Flow
- 00:18:19 BB 432 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Cash Flow Episode – Business Brain 432 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Is the Metaverse all hype and no hope? Join us for episode 431 of Business Brain as we discuss two visions of Metaverse opportunities. Then it’s on to a timely talk about bank failures and how they may impact your business, even if your bank is safe.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #431 for Wednesday, March 15th, 2023
- 00:01:00 Podcast Movement
- 00:02:19 Don’t Ignore the Blockchain
- 00:13:22 SPONSOR: Headspace helps improve mental health – through guided meditations, mindfulness practices, breathing and calming exercises, and so much more. try Headspace FREE for 30 days by going to Headspace.com/BRAIN30.
- 00:15:41 How Could The Bank Failures Impact My Business?
- Have More Than One Bank
- Increase Lines of Credit When You Don’t Need One!
- 00:26:05 BB 431 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Reality of the Metaverse and the Impact of Bank Failures – Business Brain 431 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Today we talk more about MS Teams, and then it’s on to a sandwich story tied to taking action to build success in your life. Shannon shares a story about wineries and sales quotas that will blow your mind and more. Join us!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #430 for Friday, March 10th, 2023
- 00:01:33 Tony-427-Feedback on using MS Teams effectively
- 00:05:04 Duffy’s Sandwich Story
- 00:11:25 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:13:39 PODCAST: eCommerce MasterPlan — Are you interested in growing your eCommerce store? Or starting one? Then you should be listening to the award-winning top eCommerce podcast – eCommerce MasterPlan
- 00:14:32 Sandbagging Sales Quotas
- 00:23:23 BB 429 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post MS Teams, Actions for Success and Sales Quotas – Business Brain 430 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Can being a business owner turn you into a cynic? Solving problems all day and dealing with some customers that drive you nuts? Join Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton today as they discuss ways to avoid the Cynic Cycle.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #429 for Wednesday, March 8th, 2023
- 00:02:17 Being in Business Makes You a Cynic
- 00:09:00 SPONSOR: Notion. With whatever you’re working on, Notion AI lets you skip to the good part. Save time and write faster by letting Notion AI handle the brainstorm and first draft. For a limited time, try Notion AI for free when by visiting Notion.com/businessbrain.
- 00:11:14 PODCAST: eCommerce MasterPlan — Are you interested in growing your eCommerce store? Or starting one? Then you should be listening to the award-winning top eCommerce podcast – eCommerce MasterPlan
- 00:12:07 How To Avoid Being a Cynic
- Two Tokens of Customer Service
- Positive Influence with Pacing and Leading
- 00:22:25 BB 428 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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You may have heard the acronym ESG. Environmental, Social Governance seems to impact large corporations mostly, but we want to know if small to medium-sized businesses are impacted at all by ESG concepts. Join us today for a discussion about ESG and a rant about being forced to make decisions. It will be fun and informative – we promise.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #428 for Friday, March 3rd, 2023
- 00:01:24 ESG and Your Business
- 00:10:52 PODCAST: Business Credit and Financing Show. If you’re looking to get money for your business, make sure you tune in to the Business Credit and Financing show hosted by funding expert Ty Crandall.
- 00:11:54 How much does your business care about ESG?
- 00:20:16 BB 428 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post What do Small Business Owners Think of ESG? Business Brain 428 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What messaging App are you using to connect with your employees and business partners? How do you get non-technical people to embrace new solutions for messaging? Join us today on Business Brain for a deep dive into choosing and using messaging Apps.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #427 for Wednesday, March 1st, 2023
- 00:02:22 How do you message?
- Slack
- Microsoft Teams
- 00:11:38 PODCAST: Business Credit and Financing Show. If you’re looking to get money for your business, make sure you tune in to the Business Credit and Financing show hosted by funding expert Ty Crandall.
- 00:12:46 What Office do you use?
- Synology Office
- LibreOffice
- 00:16:42 Crowd-sourcing Messaging Apps
- 00:17:43 BB 427 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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Join us today as we meet with Mani Bhushan, Founder of Taco Ocho, a chain of Latin food restaurants in Texas. Mani shares some great tips and sobering advice about the food business and what motivates him daily after 40 years in the restaurant business.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #426 for Wednesday, February 22nd, 2023
- Featured Guest: Mani Bhushan from Taco Ocho
- The Efficiency of Sauces
- From Big Companies to Your Own Company
- Lesson: You need great people, and you need to make great food
- Don’t Sacrifice Your Creativity…Nor Your Customers
- Go get 20,000-30,000 customers
- Getting closer to your customers
- Twisting authentic food
- Adapting Strategic Plans from Big Business
- Always Be Growing…Follow the Younger Customers’ Needs
- Choosing a Restaurant Location
- Traffic generators
- Traffic patterns
- Household income
- Mobile Phone Ping Studies
- Hedging for a correction with razor thin margins in 2023
- Tip: Have a defendable concept
- Featured Guest: Mani Bhushan from Taco Ocho
- BB 426 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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What is riskier, working for a corporation where your future may be decided by someone else or starting a business where you make the decisions? Join us for another episode of Business Brain to here about when Dave was “Curtailed” and why Shannon thinks employment is a trap.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #425 for Friday, February 17th, 2023
- 00:01:05 The Day I Learned The Meaning Of The Word, “Curtailed”
- 00:06:53 SPONSOR: HelloFresh. Visit HelloFresh.com/BusinessBrain65 and use code BusinessBrain65 and take 65% off your first box!
- 00:08:46 PODCAST: Masterminding Success Podcast. Whether you’re just thinking about starting an online business or you’ve been running one for years, Keith and Nuria will open your eyes to new and different ways to look at your customers and business!
- 00:09:40 The Paycheck Fallacy
- FIRE Concept – Mr. Money Mustache
- 00:17:26 BB 425 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
THIS AI-GENERATED BUSINESS BRAIN ARTICLE CAN PROVIDE MORE BACKGROUND AND RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS TOPIC.
Starting a Business: Why It’s Not as Risky as You ThinkStarting a business is a dream for many, but the perceived risks involved can often hold people back. It’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that working for a corporation is the safer option, but the truth is, owning a business can be less risky than you might think. In fact, it can be one of the best decisions you’ll ever make. Here are a few reasons why:
You’re in control of your own destiny
One of the biggest advantages of owning a business is that you’re in control of your own destiny. You’re at the mercy of your employer’s decisions when you work for a corporation. You have no control over the company’s direction or the projects you’re assigned to. This lack of control can be frustrating and lead to dissatisfaction.
When you own a business, however, you’re in charge. You get to decide which direction to take your company, which projects to pursue, and how to allocate resources. This level of control can be empowering and can give you a sense of purpose and fulfillment that you may not find in a corporate setting.
You can mitigate risks through careful planning
Another reason why starting a business is not as risky as you might think is that you can mitigate risks through careful planning. A common misconception is that all entrepreneurs are risk-takers. While it’s true that starting a business involves some degree of risk, there are many ways to minimize those risks.
By conducting thorough market research, developing a solid business plan, and seeking advice from experienced professionals, you can reduce the likelihood of failure. Additionally, you can take steps to mitigate financial risks, such as securing funding and managing expenses. When you take a strategic approach to starting a business, you can significantly reduce the risks involved.
You have the potential for unlimited growth and earnings
When you work for a corporation, your earnings are limited by your salary and any bonuses or incentives you may receive. There’s a ceiling to what you can earn, no matter how hard you work or how much value you bring to the company.
However, a business’s potential for growth and earnings is unlimited. You can scale your business, increase revenue, and build wealth over time. This potential for unlimited growth and earnings can be a powerful motivator and give you the financial freedom to live the life you want.
In conclusion, starting a business is not as risky as you might think. When you own a business, you’re in control of your destiny, you can mitigate risks through careful planning, and you have the potential for unlimited growth and earnings. While it’s true that starting a business involves some degree of risk, the benefits of being your own boss, pursuing your passions, and building a legacy are well worth it. If you’re considering starting a business, don’t let fear hold you back. With the right mindset, planning, and execution, you can achieve success and fulfillment beyond what you ever thought possible.
The post The Risk Fallacy: Paycheck vs. Business Owner – Business Brain 425 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
How do you keep your team connected across various locations and time zones? Is it important to build trust and community with hybrid teams that spend part of their time in the office and part working remotely? Join us this week as we use our Business Brains to dig into the concept of the Conversational Enterprise.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #424 for Wednesday, February 15th, 2023
- 00:01:45 The Conversational Enterprise
- Grammarly
- Hire nerds!
- 00:09:18 SPONSOR: HelloFresh. Visit HelloFresh.com/BusinessBrain65 and use code BusinessBrain65 and take 65% off your first box!
- 00:11:09 PODCAST: Masterminding Success Podcast. Whether you’re just thinking about starting an online business or you’ve been running one for years, Keith and Nuria will open your eyes to new and different ways to look at your customers and business!
- 00:12:04 Concept of the Clean Garage
- 00:13:46 Augmented Conversations
- 00:19:00 BB 424 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
The Crucial Role of Communication in Creating a Conversational Enterprise for Hybrid WorkersAs the COVID-19 pandemic has forced companies to adopt remote work practices, hybrid working has become the new norm. This means that some employees work from the office while others work from home. While this arrangement offers several benefits, such as increased flexibility, it also presents new challenges. One of the most significant is communication.
Communication is critical for the success of any organization. It enables employees to collaborate effectively, share knowledge, and make decisions. However, with hybrid work arrangements, communication becomes more complex. Employees who work remotely may feel disconnected from their colleagues, miss important conversations, and need help staying updated on company news. This can lead to feelings of isolation, reduced productivity, and increased turnover.
To overcome these challenges, companies need to embrace the concept of the Conversational Enterprise. This term describes a company where communication is open, transparent, and consistent across all levels of the organization. Employees can share ideas, ask questions, and give feedback freely in a Conversational Enterprise. This fosters a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.
Creating a Conversational Enterprise requires a strategic approach to communication. Here are some tips for companies to consider:
- Establish clear communication channels.
To create a Conversational Enterprise, companies must establish clear channels of communication. This means defining how employees should communicate with each other and what tools they should use. Companies may communicate with email, instant messaging, video conferencing, or project management software. The key is ensuring everyone knows how to use these tools effectively.
- Encourage regular communication.
Regular communication is crucial for hybrid workers. Companies should encourage employees to check in with each other regularly, whether it’s through daily stand-up meetings or weekly team calls. This can help build relationships, foster a sense of community, and prevent feelings of isolation.
- Ensure everyone is included.
One of the challenges of hybrid work arrangements is ensuring that everyone is included in the communication. Companies should make an effort to ensure that remote workers are included in meetings, social events, and other activities. This can help create a sense of belonging and prevent remote workers from feeling left out.
- Foster a culture of feedback.
Feedback is crucial for continuous improvement. Companies should encourage employees to give and receive feedback regularly. This can help identify areas for improvement, resolve conflicts, and foster a culture of transparency.
- Provide training.
To create a Conversational Enterprise, companies may need to provide training to employees. This can help them learn how to communicate effectively, use new tools, and build relationships with colleagues.
In conclusion, hybrid work arrangements present new challenges for communication. However, companies can overcome these challenges by embracing the concept of the Conversational Enterprise. By establishing clear communication channels, encouraging regular communication, ensuring everyone is included, fostering a culture of feedback, and providing training, companies can create a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement. This can help employees feel connected, motivated, and engaged, leading to increased productivity and better business outcomes.
The post Trust, Community and the Conversational Enterprise – Business Brain 424 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Have you ever been contacted by a GSA consultant offering easy profits and increased revenue for your business? Are there GSA opportunities you need to take advantage of? Join us on Business Brain for a discussion about the pros and cons of GSA business. Then it’s on to a discussion about adding value BEFORE you ask for money.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #423 for Friday, February 10th, 2023
- 00:01:52 Todd-415-Follow-up on GSA Schedule Contracts
- 00:08:26 PODCAST: Business Credit and Financing Show. If you’re looking to get money for your business, make sure you tune in to the Business Credit and Financing show hosted by funding expert Ty Crandall.
- 00:09:31 Add value FIRST
- Freemium
- Dave’s “Minute 31” Billing Paradigm Concept
- Listen to Lloyd Chapman from BB 317
- 00:17:53
- BB 422 Outtro
- Coming Up: The Conversation Enterprise
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
THIS AI-GENERATED BUSINESS BRAIN ARTICLE CAN PROVIDE MORE BACKGROUND AND RESOURCES RELATED TO THIS TOPIC.
Maximizing Small Business Opportunities with GSA ContractsSmall businesses can benefit from selling to the government through General Services Administration (GSA) contracts. The GSA is the largest procurement organization in the federal government and offers a variety of products and services to other federal agencies. By participating in GSA contracts, small businesses can increase their visibility and credibility, reach new customers, and expand their customer base.
Pros:Increased visibility: Small businesses can increase their visibility by participating in GSA contracts, as they will be listed in the GSA Advantage! online catalog. This provides a cost-effective way for small businesses to reach a large customer base.
Credibility: Participating in GSA contracts gives small businesses credibility in the federal market and signals to customers that they are reliable suppliers.
Access to new customers: GSA contracts provide small businesses with access to new customers, including federal agencies, military installations, and other organizations that may not have been previously aware of the company’s products or services.
Simplified procurement process: The GSA contract process is a simplified procurement process, allowing small businesses to participate without extensive marketing and sales efforts.
Cons:Competition: The GSA contracts are highly competitive, and small businesses must demonstrate that they can provide high-quality products or services at a competitive price.
Long procurement process: The GSA procurement process can be time-consuming and requires a significant investment of time and resources to be successful.
Strict regulations: Selling to the government through GSA contracts involves strict regulations, including pricing and delivery requirements.
Limited product offerings: Small businesses may have limitations on the products or services they can offer under GSA contracts, limiting their growth and expansion opportunities.
To maximize the benefits of participating in GSA contracts, small businesses should be proactive and take advantage of the resources available to them, including training, assistance from the Small Business Administration (SBA) and the GSA Office of Small Business Utilization. Small businesses should also be prepared to invest the time and resources necessary to meet the requirements of the procurement process, including providing detailed information about their products and services and demonstrating their capability to meet the needs of federal customers.
In conclusion, small businesses can benefit from participating in GSA contracts by increasing their visibility, credibility, and access to new customers. However, they should be prepared for competition, a lengthy procurement process, strict regulations, and limited product offerings. To maximize the benefits of GSA contracts, small businesses should take advantage of available resources and be prepared to invest the time and resources necessary to succeed.
The post GSA Business Opportunities and Pitfalls – Business Brain 423 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is the best pricing strategy for your products and services? Do LLCs offer any tax advantages? And just how valuable is ChatGPT for your Small Business?
Join Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton this week for another bite-sized episode of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #422 for Wednesday, February 8th, 2023
- 00:01:23 David-Product Pricing Strategy (and a VA bonus)
- Caveat: Loss Leaders.
- ChatGPT
- 00:09:51 PODCAST: Business Credit and Financing Show. If you’re looking to get money for your business, make sure you tune in to the Business Credit and Financing show hosted by funding expert Ty Crandall.
- 00:10:57 Jeff-420-LLCs Don’t Offer Any Tax Advantages
- 00:15:26 BB 422 Outtro
- Coming Up: The Conversational Enterprise
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources related to this topic.
Effective Pricing Strategies for Small BusinessesPricing is one of the most important aspects of running a small business. The price of your products or services directly affects your revenue, profit margins, and overall success. However, determining the right price can be complex, especially for small businesses with limited resources and market power. This article will discuss some effective pricing strategies for small businesses and help you determine which is best for your business.
Cost-plus pricingCost-plus pricing is one of the simplest and most straightforward pricing strategies. This method involves calculating the cost of producing a product or delivering a service and adding a markup to determine the final price. The markup is usually a percentage of the cost and represents your profit. This strategy works well for small businesses that clearly understand their costs and a limited number of competitors.
Value-based pricingValue-based pricing is a strategy that focuses on the perceived value of a product or service to the customer. This strategy involves determining the value that your product or service provides to the customer and setting a price that reflects that value. This method works well for small businesses that offer unique or high-quality products or services.
Penetration pricingPenetration pricing is a strategy that involves setting a low initial price to attract customers and gain market share. This strategy works well for small businesses entering a new market or launching a new product. The idea is to gain a significant customer base quickly and then gradually raise the price as the business grows and becomes more established.
Dynamic pricingDynamic pricing is a strategy that involves adjusting prices in real time based on market conditions, supply and demand, and other factors. This method works well for small businesses that operate in industries with fluctuating demand, such as retail or travel. Dynamic pricing allows small businesses to respond quickly to changing market conditions and adjust prices to maximize revenue.
Loss leadersLoss leaders are products or services that are priced lower than their cost to attract customers and drive sales of other, higher-priced products or services. This strategy works well for small businesses that sell multiple products or services and want to encourage customers to purchase more. Loss leaders can be a powerful tool for small businesses, but they must be used carefully. If not managed correctly, loss leaders can lead to a decline in profitability and overall business success.
ConclusionPricing is a critical aspect of running a small business. The right pricing strategy can help you attract customers, increase revenue, and grow your business. However, finding the right pricing strategy can take time and effort, especially for small businesses with limited resources and market power. By understanding the different pricing strategies available and their benefits, you can make informed pricing decisions and improve your chances of success.
The post Pricing Strategies and LLC Tax Advantages – Business Brain 422 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Apple rolls out its Business Connect service to get your Small Business listed across multiple Mac and iOS apps. Learn how you can increase the visibility if your business on Maps, Messages, Siri, and more. You can also tap into APIs for services that list your business on other platforms like Google and Bing while gaining access to services like Tap to Pay on iPhone and more.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #421 for Friday, February 3rd, 2023
- 00:01:59 Travel Freedom Experiment Success!
- 00:05:11 Listing Your Business Everywhere
- Apple Business Connect
- Reputation, Rio SEO, SOCi, Uberall, and Yext
- Google Business Profile
- Bing Places for Business
- 00:11:25 BB 421 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources about getting your business listed on mapping services.
Maximizing Your Online Visibility: The Importance of Listing Your Business on Online MapsIn today’s digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial for the success of your business. One important aspect of this presence is having your business listed on online maps such as Google Maps and Apple Maps. Millions of people use online maps daily to find local businesses, and being listed on these platforms can significantly impact your business’s visibility and success.
- Increased visibility: Listing your business on online maps can help increase your visibility to potential customers. When someone searches for businesses in your area, having your business listed on online maps can help ensure that you appear at the top of search results. This can help drive more traffic to your business, both online and in-person.
- Customer reviews: Online maps also allow customers to leave reviews of your business. Positive reviews can help boost your business’s credibility and attract more customers, while negative reviews can help you identify areas for improvement.
- Accurate information: Online maps can also help ensure that your business’s information, such as your address, hours of operation, and contact information, is accurate and up-to-date. This can help avoid confusion and ensure that customers can easily find your business.
- Mobile optimization: Online maps are optimized for mobile devices, which are increasingly being used by customers to search for businesses. By having your business listed on online maps, you can reach customers who are using their mobile devices to search for businesses while they’re on the go.
- Competitive advantage: Not all businesses are listed on online maps, and having your business listed can give you a competitive advantage over those that aren’t. By being listed, you can reach potential customers who might not otherwise have been able to find your business.
To ensure that your business is listed on online maps, you’ll need to claim your business listing and verify your information. This can typically be done through the platform’s business center. Once your listing is claimed and verified, you can update your information, add photos, and respond to customer reviews.
Further Reading Resources:1. Google My Business Help Center (https://support.google.com/business) 2. Apple Maps Connect (https://mapsconnect.apple.com/) 3. “The Ultimate Guide to Local SEO” by Moz (https://moz.com/local-search-ranking-factors) 4. “Local SEO Checklist: Get Found by More Customers Online” by Hubspot (https://blog.hubspot.com/marketing/local-seo-checklist) 5. “How to Optimize Your Google My Business Listing” by Search Engine Journal (https://searchenginejournal.com/optimize-google-my-business-listing/)
In conclusion, listing your business on online maps is an important step in building your online presence and reaching potential customers. By having accurate information, responding to customer reviews, and optimizing your listing for mobile devices, you can increase your visibility, credibility, and success. Utilize the resources listed above to help maximize your online visibility and reach more customers through online maps.
The post All About Apple Business Connect – Business Brain 421 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What’s the best structure for your business between a Limited Liability Company (LLC) and a Sole Proprietorship? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they talk about their experiences with both structures. What are the pros and cons to forming an LLC? What are the risks and obligations for a Sole Proprietorship? Let’s break down the benefits of both business types.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #420 for Wednesday, February 1st, 2023
- 00:00:42 Successful Launch!
- 00:04:12 Randy from Rocklin
- Beware the Onces!
- 00:10:18 LLC or Sole Proprietor?
- California Sole Proprietorship Vs LLC
- 00:18:53 BB 420 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
This AI-generated Business Brain article can provide more background and resources about LLCs and Sole Proprietor business options.
Choosing the Right Business Structure: LLC vs. Sole ProprietorshipStarting a new business can be exciting but also confusing, especially when it comes to choosing the right business structure. The two most popular options are forming an LLC (Limited Liability Company) or becoming a sole proprietor. Both structures have their own pros and cons, and the right choice depends on your specific business needs.
LLC (Limited Liability Company) Pros:1. Liability protection: One of the biggest benefits of forming an LLC is the liability protection it provides. As the owner of an LLC, your personal assets are separate from your business assets, so if your business is sued or incurs debt, your personal assets are protected. 2. Tax flexibility: LLCs have the flexibility to choose how they want to be taxed, either as a sole proprietorship, partnership, S corporation or C corporation. 3. Credibility: Having an LLC can give your business credibility and make it easier for you to secure funding and attract investors.
LLC Cons:1. Cost: Forming an LLC can be more expensive compared to starting a sole proprietorship. This is because you’ll need to pay fees to file your articles of organization, obtain a business license and register your business name. 2. Complexity: The rules and regulations surrounding LLCs can be more complex compared to sole proprietorships. This means that you’ll need to invest more time and resources into understanding and complying with these regulations.
Sole Proprietorship Pros:1. Simplicity: A sole proprietorship is the simplest business structure and requires the least amount of paperwork and regulation. 2. Cost-effective: Becoming a sole proprietor is the most cost-effective option, as there are no fees to pay or forms to file. 3. Flexibility: As a sole proprietor, you have complete control over your business, which means you can make decisions quickly and change direction as needed.
Sole Proprietorship Cons:1. Unlimited liability: As a sole proprietor, you’re personally responsible for all of your business debts and liabilities. This means that if your business incurs debt or is sued, your personal assets are at risk. 2. Credibility: A sole proprietorship may be seen as less credible compared to an LLC, which can make it harder for you to secure funding and attract customers. 3. Limited growth potential: The growth potential of a sole proprietorship is limited by the amount of personal resources you have available. If you want to grow your business, you’ll need to find other sources of funding, such as loans or investment.
In conclusion, choosing the right business structure is an important decision that can impact your business’s success. An LLC offers more liability protection, tax flexibility, and credibility, while a sole proprietorship is more simple, cost-effective and flexible. Consider your specific business needs, such as the type of industry you’re in, your personal financial situation, and future growth plans, to determine the best option for your business.
The post LLC or Sole Proprietor – What’s Right For Your Business? Business Brain 420 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is standing in the way of your success? What lies do you need to overcome when they try to sneak into your Business Brain? Join us as we destroy these myths and share with you methods to avoid the “Once’s”.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #419 for Friday, January 27th, 2023
- 00:02:21 Seven Brutal Lies that Kill Your Success
- Everyone Will Laugh at Me
- Nobody Cares (Till Yer Dead) by Bitter Pill
- It Won’t Be Good Enough
- It’s Too Late/I’m Too Old
- Yet.
- I’m Too Good For This
- Being an entrepreneur is a blue collar job
- I Can’t Afford It
- Beware the “Onces”
- Somebody Else Probably Already Thought Of It
- If you want your idea to be worth a hundred dollars, write it on a $100 bill
- I Already Tried That
- Everyone Will Laugh at Me
- 00:13:43 BB 419 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Overcoming Lies That Can Kill Success – Business Brain 419 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is the best way to determine pricing for your products or services? Can an AI like ChatGPT help you make the best choice? We think ChatGPT can help tremendously, but probably in a different way than you are thinking about. Join us today for another bite-sized Business Brain episode to talk about pricing strategies.
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #418 for Wednesday, January 25th, 2023
- 00:01:25 The Slight Edge for Teens
- 00:02:12 ChatGPT’s Pricing Example questions
- What price is too high?
- What price is so low that it tells you the product won’t be worth it?
- What price is starting to get “expensive”?
- What price is “a bargain”?
- 00:12:43 BB 418 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Can ChatGPT Help You Price Your Product or Service? Business Brain 418 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
How much would you pay for the website address of your name? What’s it worth to you? It was worth $1000 to Dave Hamilton. How much did Shannon Jean have to pay for his domain name? Listen in to find out! We also discuss travel productivity and more on this episode of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #417 for Friday, January 20th, 2023
- 00:01:12 Owning Your Own Name’s Domain
- Cloudflare DNS Registrar
- 00:05:01 Traveling Productively
- ViewSonic VP16-OLED
- 00:17:24 BB 417 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Your Name Dot Com and Traveling Productively – Business Brain 417 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us for another bite-sized episode of Business Brain as we ask: “Can you manage ALL email with just one mail application?” Listen in as Dave Hamilton explains how he manages one single mailbox for multiple businesses. Shannon takes the challenge and vows to give it a shot before he is buried in email overload.
What email system are you using, and how productive are you?
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #416 for Wednesday, January 18th, 2023
- 00:01:54 One Inbox to Rule Them All
- AirMail for macOS
- Fastmail (instead of Gmail)
- SaneBox
- 00:21:42 BB 416 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post Email Productivity Tips and Tricks – Business Brain 416 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is Social Capital? Why is it so important, and how do you get it? Listen to this Friday bonus episode of Business Brain to learn how to use and accumulate this important tool.
Have a question or comment? Send us a message, and if we feature it on an upcoming Business Brain episode, you will be entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #415 for Friday, January 13th, 2023
- 00:01:23 Have You Done GSA Contracts?
- 00:04:13 Earning and Spending Social Capital
- Depositing to the Social Capital Bank:
- Adding value to relationships
- Please, thank you, and being polite are the social capital mindset
- “How can I help?”
- “I’m happy to help, and I know you’d do the same for me.”
- Be positive!
- Be reliable!
- 00:20:59 BB 415 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
The post The Why and How of Social Capital – Business Brain 415 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Dave is back from CES, and Shannon reminds us why meeting people in person is critical to building relationships for you and your team. Join us as we discuss techniques for success and how to pre-plan your event to make it productive.
Have a question or comment? Send us a message, and if we feature it on an upcoming Business Brain episode, you will be entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #414 for Wednesday, January 11th, 2023
- 00:01:55 The Value of Conferences like CES 2023
- Planning for Trade Show Success – Business Brain 258
- Attending Conferences and Trade Shows Like a Pro – Business Brain 208
- CES 2023 LG Booth Walkthrough
- 00:16:46 BB 414 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
- If your email is featured in an episode, you’re entered to win a MacBook Air in 2023
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Happy New Year! We’re going way back to start 2023 with some techniques to create a Charmed Life that you should have learned in Kindergarten. Then it’s on to a discussion of how we love our listeners so much that we want to give one of them a new MacBook Air. Listen in and learn!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #413 for Wednesday, January 4th, 2023
- 00:02:23 We lied!
- 00:04:45 The Kindergarten Lessons
- Responsiveness
- Please and Thank You
- 00:14:00 Win a MacBook Air from Business Brain!
- 00:16:21 BB 413 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
The post The Kindergarten Episode + Win a MacBook Air – Business Brain 413 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
OK, we lied. We told you there would not be an episode of Business Brain this week, but here we are with a bonus end-of-year episode! Listen in as we discuss the power of the Solo-401k, end-of-year buying opportunities, and why goals are for losers. Don’t miss this one!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #412 for Wednesday, December 28th, 2022
- 00:01:08 Solo 401k
- 00:08:20 Buying Opportunities
- 00:10:14 No goals for 2023, Systems instead.
- Systemology on Business Brain
- 00:14:50 BB 412 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
The post Super Bonus EOY Episode! Solo-401k, Opportunities and Systems over Goals – Business Brain 412 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
How did Fred Franzia create a $1.99 bottle of wine that would sell over a billion bottles? How does Two Buck Chuck make a profit, and what tactics can you learn to apply to your own business?
How will AI impact your business? Now is the time to start learning about applications like ChatGPT that will revolutionize many aspects of our lives.
Join us for episode 411 of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #411 for Wednesday, December 21st, 2022
- 00:01:34 Dissecting The Two Buck Chuck Story
- The Mac Observer is Acquired…again!
- Back to Two Buck Chuck!
- Going against the crowd
- Branding
- Tony Biagi on Business Brain 178
- 00:16:44 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, Shopify is giving you a fourteen-day trial and full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features. Visit Shopify.com/sbs to get yours!
- 00:18:33 Using ChatGPT for your business
- 00:34:43 BB 411 Outtro
- See You Next Year!
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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What do we know? Join us as we discuss how some small businesses shift into high gear and take on tens or hundreds of millions in venture capital investments to morph into entirely different-sized businesses. Is this your area of expertise? If so, contact us to share your knowledge with Business Brain listeners.
After this discussion, we dive into the story of Brumate, a tweet thread that may be inspiring but leaves much to the imagination, and we think it may not be helpful for aspiring entrepreneurs.
Join us today for this and more!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #410 for Wednesday, December 14th, 2022
- 00:01:55 Greg Scown on Business Brain
- 00:09:15 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, Shopify is giving you a fourteen-day trial and full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features. Visit Shopify.com/sbs to get yours!
- 00:11:07 Dissecting Brumate
- Don Leslie creates a speaker!
- 00:19:57 Our Thread about finding opportunities in a recessions
- 00:22:37 BB 410 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
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This week Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean start the show by answering a listener question about the pros and cons of turning your hobby into a business. Then it’s a discussion about how to find a buyer for your company, how to create systems that are marketable to a buyer, and more specific details about selling your business.
Join us for these topics and more on episode 409 of Business Brain!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #409 for Wednesday, December 7th, 2022
- 00:01:36 Mike-406-Turning My Hobby Into a Business?
- Focus on helping other people be successful
- 00:18:16 SPONSOR: Bambee – Let Bambee help with your dedicated HR Manager! Go to Bambee.com right now to schedule your free trial!
- 00:20:07 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, Shopify is giving you a fourteen-day trial and full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features. Visit Shopify.com/sbs to get yours!
- 00:21:58 Jeff-What did you do when selling your business?
- Empire Flippers
- Flippa
- Website Closers
- Sellers Discretionary Earnings (SDE)
- 00:46:06 BB 409 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
The post Hobby Business Pitfalls and Selling Your Company – Business Brain 409 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
This week we discuss the power of an entrepreneurial peer group, building a safety net, and hiring your first employee. Listen in to learn more!
- 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #408 for Wednesday, November 30th, 2022
- 00:02:38 Building Your Business Brain Peer Group
- Alliance of CEOs on Business Brain
- 00:06:45 Covid Employee Retention Funds
- 00:09:00 Sparingly Sharing The Highlight Reel
- 00:12:49 SPONSOR: Shopify – For anyone to sell anywhere, Shopify is giving you a fourteen-day trial and full access to Shopify’s entire suite of features. Visit Shopify.com/sbs to get yours!
- 00:14:35 Greg-How Do I Know When To Add That First Employee?
- Hiring Your First Employee
- Create some safety nets
- The E-Myth Revisited
- Hire an assistant, double your salary!
- 00:36:42 BB 408 Outtro
- feedback@businessbrain.show
The post Building a Peer Group, Safety Nets and Hiring Your First Employee – Business Brain 408 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
In our last episode, we shared with you how important it is for Business Brain to engage with our listeners. Some of you answered the call and sent in questions, suggestions, and constructive criticism. Thank you! We dive into your questions and comments with a focus on what actions your […]
The post Listener Q&A – Taking Action to Help a Slowing Business – Business Brain 407 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us this week for a unique episode of Business Brain. First, Dave shares his accidental system that has changed his life. Then we jump into a candid discussion about engagement, namely the lack of engagement by our audience. What changes should we make for Business Brain? What’s working, what’s […]
The post An Accidental System and Increasing Engagement – Business Brain 406 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s time for listener questions! Join us for another episode of Business Brain to hear our take on social media algorithms before we jump in to help Kate with her horse-based family business. Then we tackle a tricky question about a business partner for over a decade that is stuck […]
The post Algorithms, Family Businesses and Slacking Partners – Business Brain 405 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Let’s face it, not everyone will like you, and you won’t like everyone that you must work with. How do you adjust your Business Brain to change the frame of these relationships to find success? Join your hosts, Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, as they explore what it takes to […]
The post Working and Succeeding with People You Dislike – Business Brain 404 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What is the single most powerful skill you can develop? According to Dickie Bush, it’s learning quickly. Join us on this episode of Business Brain as we dive into Mr. Bush’s framework for learning quickly by seeing everything as a game, starting to play immediately, and then iterating as you […]
The post Learning Quickly, Gamification, Iteration, and Mastery – Business Brain 403 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
What habits could you adopt that would transform both your personal and business life? Join Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as we discuss habit recommendations from SystemSunday on Twitter. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #402 for Wednesday, October 19th, 2022 00:01:06 A Sale Is a Successful Transfer of […]
The post Can These Habits Transform Your Life? Business Brain 402 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Too Old to Start a Business? Think Again If you think youth is a prerequisite to starting a company, think again. According to a recent study by the Census Bureau and MIT, a 50-year-old founder is 2.2 times more likely to start a successful business than a 30-year-old. The study […]
The post What is the Best Age to Start a Business? Business Brain 401 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us this week on Business Brain as we dive deeply into different communication methods with your employees. Find out what works, what doesn’t, and how to fix problems. Don’t miss our intro topic about how to save thousands on your tech gear with this “one simple trick.” Oh yeah, […]
The post Employee Communication Best Practices – Business Brain 400 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Your employees are your business’s greatest asset. How can you ensure they your team is energized and excited about the work they do? What methods and policies can you put in place to help employees avoid burnout, and what are some signs that your employees need better tools to […]
The post Avoiding Employee Burnout – Business Brain 399 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
It’s a grab-bag of topics today on Business Brain! Listen in to hear about the importance of finding a good mentor, why your employees will always share the info you may not expect them to, and an idea for a Festivus type of meeting where employees can be free to […]
The post Find a Mentor, Employee Chatter, and Festivus Employee Meetings – Business Brain 398 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Would you invest all your money in one stock? If the answer is no, why would you invest all your efforts into one company, one side hustle, and one career path? Join us today as we discuss the concept of the Portfolio Life and how it fits into our favorite […]
The post What is a Portfolio Life? Business Brain 397 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us today on Business Brain as we discover and explore Ray Dalio’s Principles for success. Dave and Shannon will help you start building the Factory in Your Brain to create success and a Charmed Life for your business and personal life. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #396 […]
The post Principles of Managing Reality – Business Brain 396 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
We see more and more automation entering the workforce to take over many blue- and white-collar jobs. One area that we think will always be handled by humans is creative job roles such as designers, musicians, producers, and more. But how do these creative entrepreneurs create a Charmed Life and […]
The post Why Creatives Need a Business Brain – Business Brain 395 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Every musician is a small business owner, and this week we have Paul Kent from Gig Gab — The Show for Working Musicians — join us for a crossover episode to dive into how we can apply our business brains in our musical endeavors! Press play to learn…and always be performing, […]
The post The Business of Music — Business Brain 394 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
When you own a business, everything is public. Or at least you should consider that it could be. Your emails, Slack posts, phone calls, and even in-person interactions can be captured and shared with the world. How do you prepare and train your employees to avoid reputation disasters, and what […]
The post Reputation Management – Before and After a Disaster – Business Brain 393 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
Join us today on Business Brain as we discuss the pros and cons of including politics in your business and the importance of stepping away and getting some much-needed downtime to help you think and solve problems. 00:00:00 Business Brain – The Entrepreneurs’ Podcast #392 for Wednesday, August 10th, 2022 […]
The post Politics in Business and the Importance of Downtime – Business Brain 392 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
The Covid-19 lockdowns created headaches for many business owners and created opportunities for others. Gary Arndt, the host of the Everything Everywhere podcast, falls into BOTH of those categories. Join us today as we learn about the 10-year journey that led to the start of Everything Everywhere and how Gary […]
The post Interview with Gary Arndt of the Everything Everywhere Podcast – Business Brain Episode 391 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
We have been using the term Business Brain frequently on The Small Business Show since it encapsulates so much of how we want you to think about not just your Small Business but also your life in general. When you use your Business Brain, you are: Using a Problem-Solving Mindset […]
The post Business Brain is Born and Listener Questions – Business Brain 390 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
This is the second show in our series about hiring right and handling layoffs. Our Business Brain tells us that our employees are the most important asset we have, so we always suggest doing everything you can to avoid layoffs. However, sometimes layoffs can’t be avoided if you want to […]
The post How to Handle Layoffs – Small Business Show 389 appeared first on Business Brain - The Entrepreneurs' Podcast.
We are entering an interesting time when it comes to employees. You may be struggling to find enough people to fill certain roles while considering layoffs of others to cut your costs to make it through a possible recession. We consider layoffs to be the last resort since we believe […]
The post Hiring Tips and When Layoffs Become a Reality, Part 1 – Small Business Show 388 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We have talked about the idea of a Revenue Stack a number of times on The Small Business Show. Episode 115 back in 2017 dived deeper into the concept. With the current and future business economy looking uncertain, it’s time to jump back into the Revenue Stack concept to see […]
The post Developing Revenue Stacks – Small Business Show 387 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It takes money to make money, right? Whether you are just getting started or you have been in business for years, you are going to need access to capital for your business. So what resources are there for new and established businesses? Should you go the traditional route of a […]
The post How to Finance Anything – AKA How to Fund Your Business – Small Business Show 386 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
For 7 years we have been encouraging you to start a Small Business. Along the way, we have shared countless stories of success and provided you with tons of resources to help run your business. For this episode, we thought it would be a good time to discuss the reasons […]
The post Why YOU Should NOT Start a Business – Small Business Show 385 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You might have noticed that the economy is a little crazy right now. Fuel prices are skyrocketing, the stock market is plummeting, and inflation is at the highest point in decades. Has your Small Business been impacted by these factors? If not, will it be at some later date? Are […]
The post Surviving and Thriving During a Downturn – Small Business Show 384 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The future is uncertain. Are we headed for a recession as the Fed works to tame inflation by increasing interest rates? Will fuel prices come down or are they headed for double digits? To prepare for the worst, it’s time to look at your Small Business costs to find places […]
The post Cutting Costs While Preserving Value – Small Business Show 383 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Everyone screws up. How can you minimize mistakes while building confidence in your employees? How many times do you let someone mess up before you have to discipline or terminate them? What are the best methods for creating conscientious employees that learn from their mistakes? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton […]
The post Managing Employee Mistakes – Carrot or Stick? Small Business Show 382 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There’s a nationwide shortage of workers and attracting the best talent can be challenging. How do you make your Small Business stand out among other companies? Should you just compete on salary levels? What creative methods can you use to bring the best employees to your company? Join Dave Hamilton […]
The post Creative Methods to Recruit and Retain Employees – Small Business Show 381 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us for episode 380 of The Small Business Show to get an update on Shannon’s experiment to create a company just using his phone – he just hit a significant milestone. Then it’s on to a discussion about Email newsletters and why your Small Business needs one, how to […]
The post A Million Dollar Side Hustle and the All Powerful Email Newsletter – Small Business Show 380 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to buy out your business partner when you don’t have the cash? How do you convert your side-hustle to a full-time business AND recruit your current employer as your first customer? Join us for episode 379 of The Small Business Show as we tackle these questions […]
The post Buying out a Partner and Turning Your Employer into a Customer – Small Business Show 379 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Listen in for our second episode in a series and learn how developing career paths for your employees will help your business become stronger and more profitable. 00:00:00 Small Business Show #378 for Wednesday, May 4, 2022 00:01:31 Today’s Tip: “Candidly, not Honestly” 00:13:04 Recap of Small Business Show Episode […]
The post Creating Career Paths for your Employees Part 2 – Small Business Show 378 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Want to keep your best employees from leaving your company? By giving them a clear path to advance within your Small Business not only will your employees be more fulfilled, but they will also be more valuable as they build their Talent Stack. Join us today for episode 377 of […]
The post Elon Musk, Julia Child and Part 1 of Career Paths – Small Business Show 377 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Running your Small Business can seem overwhelming at times. There are a thousand things going on that require your attention and hundreds of decisions that need to be made in a timely manner. How do you keep things straight? How can you keep focused on what is important at this […]
The post The Superpower of Compartmentalizing Your Thoughts – Small Business Show 376 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being Transparent in your Small Business can be a key tool to gaining customers, attracting the best talent, and building your personal brand. Make transparency part of your company culture: For your Employees For your Customers For your Suppliers For your Partners and Advisors Join us […]
The post Transparency for Fun and Profit – Small Business Show 375 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us for a fresh-squeezed edition of the Small Business Show as we dive into a grab back of topics today including Defined Benefit Plans that can help both employees and employers lower tax liability, a look at how some employees feel about their relationship with your Small Business and […]
The post Defined Benefit Plans and Taking the Employees Perspective – Small Business Show 374 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small Business owners want happy and productive employees. Can you get those types of employees by giving them everything they say they want? Do your employees really know what they want and if you plan on asking them, what’s the best way to phrase the question? Join us today on […]
The post The Problem with Giving Employees What They Want – Small Business Show 373 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You can’t do it all. As Small Business owners, we may have started out taking on every role and doing all the work but the only way we can build a successful business is to create teams and delegate tasks. Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they […]
The post Delegating for Success – Small Business Show 372 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We have done a few episodes recently about how to manage cost increases and how to raise your prices. Dave recently came across the concept of Decoy Pricing that is worth looking at. What is Decoy Pricing? Decoy pricing is a strategy that aims to guide a potential customer towards […]
The post What is Decoy Pricing and how can your Small Business use it? – Small Business Show 371 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
One of our favorite sayings on The Small Business Show is “Don’t make fear-based decisions” – Brian Friss from Digistor But we want to take another look at fear and how it may help guide you to what you SHOULD do. If you are afraid of it, that may be […]
The post Using Fear as a Compass – Small Business Show 370 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You may not be fond of meetings at your Small Business, but they can be productive and serve a purpose. Today your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton jump back into this topic to discuss strategies that can help to make your meetings less painful and perhaps even useful. Join […]
The post How to Create Meetings that Matter – Small Business Show 369 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The power of focusing on results instead of effort. Join us today as your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean share their experiences with getting your team focused on systems that produce results instead of those that reward hard work without achievement. 00:00:00 Small Business Show #368 for Wednesday, February […]
The post Creating a Culture Focused on Results – Small Business Show 368 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s a grab bag of topics for episode 367 of The Small Business Show this week! First, we jump into a discussion of Wordle and their business model, then we talk about the Problem-Solving Mindset and how to develop it if you don’t already have it. Join your hosts Shannon […]
The post Dissecting the Wordle Business + Developing a Problem Solving Mindset – Small Business Show 367 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your employees are the life of your business. But what happens when you must operate in a tight labor market with increasing costs? How do you attract and keep employees during a labor shortage? Let’s look into the reasons we are having a labor shortage in the first place, then […]
The post Managing Your Small Business During a Labor Shortage – Small Business Show 366 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s a new year and a good time to reflect on how things went for your business in 2021. If your company is structured as a corporation or LLC, you will also want to create notes (AKA minutes) from the annual meeting requirement of your managing board. An Executive Summary […]
The post The Small Business Executive Summary – What it is and why you need it – Small Business Show 365 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small Business owners are forced to play all kinds of roles in their company. They must be leaders to attract talent and to create a vision for the business while at the same time they need to understand the importance of managing people to get things done. Are leadership skills […]
The post Leadership vs. Management – Can you be good at both? Small Business Show 364 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small Business owners understand the importance of building a strong team of employees and a company culture that creates a great place to work. But how do you go about managing employees in different age groups? Do you have to alter the way you interact and manage people based on […]
The post Managing Employees of all Ages and Dave Sells a Business – Small Business Show 363 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Can you create a subscription or other recurring revenue program based on your existing products or services? Join us today on The Small Business Show as we discuss why recurring revenue can help both your business and your customers. Listen to your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they […]
The post Creating Recurring Revenue Streams for Your Small Business – Small Business Show 362 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small Business owners are problem solvers. But what happens if you or your team are focused on the problems instead of solutions? Join us today as Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss the importance of solution-based thinking and action over ideas to keep your business moving towards success. […]
The post Stop Admiring Problems and Shift to Embracing Solutions – Small Business Show 361 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Everything is more expensive this year. With record-setting inflation hitting all of our wallets, how can Small Business owners manage increasing supply costs while still keeping their customers happy? We included some tips about managing inflation in episode 351 back in October, but with inflation sticking around longer than first […]
The post Managing Inflation and How to Raise Your Prices – Small Business Show 360 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you using Apple products for your Small business? Listen in this week as we talk with Jeremy Butcher, Enterprise and Education Product Marketing at Apple about how the suite of device management, support, and services in the Apple Business Essentials bundle can keep your Mac and iOS devices running […]
The post Jeremy Butcher Talks Apple Business Essentials – Small Business Show 359 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
To be a successful Small Business owner, you must embrace accountability. Not just for yourself, but for your employees, contractors, partners, and suppliers. So, what do you do when people don’t match your expectations of how hard they should be working, how fast they should be getting things done, and […]
The post Managing Your Expectations of Other People – Small Business Show 358 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Want to find flaws in the systems of your Small Business? Today we discuss the concept of requiring employees to take time off to expose problems that may be getting overlooked or worse, hidden. We also discuss the benefits to your employees that get a chance to step away from […]
The post The Multiple Benefits to Requiring Employees to take Vacation – Small Business Show 357 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your new business is doing great. But, you are doing everything yourself and you need some help. Is it time to hire your first employee? Listen in as Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss this important milestone for any Small Business owner. 00:00:00 Small Business Show #356 for […]
The post Hiring Your First Employee – Small Business Show 356 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Although we are living through some crazy times, your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have a lot to be thankful for. Join us today as we share stories about what we are thankful for as it relates to our Small Businesses and beyond. Listen in and then share what […]
The post The 2021 Thankful Episode – Small Business Show 355 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We talk about the importance of Accounting and accurate data on the show all the time. Maybe it’s because I am not that great at it and am always looking for ways to get better and/or partner with people that are smarter than I am in these areas. During episode […]
The post AccountEdge Product Evangelist Todd Salkovitz – Small Business Show 354 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us for episode 353 of The Small Business Show where we answer the question: What does the Small Business Administration actually do for Small Businesses? Then we jump into a new concept about how to coach your customers into good behavior. Listen to your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave […]
The post Does the SBA Actually Help Small Businesses? Learning to Coach Your Customers – Small Business Show 353 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What type of bank should you choose for your Small Business? Should you put all your assets into one bank or use multiple banks? Join us today during the intro section of The Small Business Show to get these questions answered and to learn why it’s so important to remember […]
The post Choosing the Right Bank and Overcoming Inflation – Small Business Show 352 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Has the Supply Chain problem impacted your Small Business? Join us today as your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss techniques to minimize Supply Chain problems while improving the overall performance of your Small Business. 00:00:00 Small Business Show #351 for Wednesday, October 27, 2021 00:01:52 “Old Man Disease” […]
The post Overcoming Supply Chain Issues – Small Business Show 351 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, we all know how important it is to keep your technology up and running with minimal downtime. What’s the best way to get support for your information technology needs? What IT support options are out there for Small Business owners? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and […]
The post Managing Small Business IT Infrastructure – Small Business Show 350 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Managing your time as a Small Business owner is a critical part of each day. Join us today as your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss how to identify when your time becomes more valuable than the task you are working on and how to delegate so you can […]
The post Valuing Your Time and the Short & Long Productivity System – Small Business Show 349 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How do you choose the best accounting software for your Small Business? What’s right for one business may not fit the needs of another. Today on The Small Business Show we talk Accounting software during our introduction and then it’s on to books and Podcasts! What business books are your […]
The post Choosing Accounting Software and the Best Books and Podcasts for Small Business Owners – Small Business Show 348 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Does your business have a Primary Customer? A customer type that you have identified that you focus all your energy and skills trying to make happy? Does this Primary Customer generate most of your profits? If not, why not? Today on The Small Business Show we discuss how and why […]
The post Why and How to Identify Your Primary Customer – Small Business Show 347 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What personality traits do successful Small Business owners share? Which traits help Small Business owners to overcome adversity to find success? Join us today on The Small Business Show to find out! Your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton each share their list of essential traits they believe create successful […]
The post Top 10 Small Business Owner Personality Traits – Small Business Show 346 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Did you participate in the Paycheck Protection Program (PPP) or the Economic Impact Disaster Loan (EIDL) program? During our Small Business Show intro this week we discuss how to get your EIDL paid back and why it’s important to plan for the long-term when changing Accountants. Then it’s on to […]
The post EIDL Loans, Accountants and Tapping into the Creativity and Productivity Faucet – Small Business Show 345 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your Small Business needs a website and you need customers to be able to find it. Join us today on The Small Business Show to learn how Google Trends research can help you attract the customers you need. Then it’s on to a discussion about how to decide which type […]
The post Google Trends and What’s the Best Website for Your Small Business? Small Business Show 344 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Making sure your company surfaces in search results for “near me” searches is critical for local search engine optimization. What local SEO search optimization techniques will help your local customers find you above your competition? Listen to episode 343 of The Small Business Show to learn more! Then it’s time […]
The post Local SEO Search Optimization and Managing Customer Returns – Small Business Show 343 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the Best Small Business phone system for your business? Join us this week on The Small Business Show as we discuss how answering your phone can be a competitive advantage! Then it’s on to a deep dive into the benefits of using affinity credit cards to enhance your lifestyle […]
The post Best Small Business Phone Systems and Credit Card Rewards – Small Business Show 342 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you living a “before-tax” lifestyle? What other accounting secrets are you missing out on that could improve your life while saving money for your Small Business? Is a Trademark important for your small business? When should you file for one and can you do it yourself? What happens if […]
The post Small Business Accounting Secrets and All About Trademarks – Small Business Show 341 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to take care of your Small Business Payroll? Should you do it yourself or use a service? Join us during the introduction to Episode 340 of The Small Business Show to find out what your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton think! Then, it’s on to […]
The post Small Business Payroll and Creating Impactful Presentations – Small Business Show 340 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best printer for your Small Business? Multi-function, Inkjet, Laser – we discuss the pros and cons of each printer type with real-world experiences from your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean. Then it’s on to a discussion about Customer Privacy – what are your responsibilities as a keeper […]
The post The Best Printer for Small Business and Managing Customer Privacy — Small Business Show 339 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How many steps does it take for a customer to speak to a human at your business? How about placing an order? How easy is it for a return to be processed or a refund to be issued? Over time, all of us can fall into the complexity trap of […]
The post PPP Loan Forgiveness and Simplicity In Your Business — Small Business Show 338 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Having an area for work, exercise, or just to get away is critically important. We have discussed ways to carve out space when working from home, and both Dave and Shannon have discussed how having an area outside of your home can increase your productivity and sanity. Today on the […]
The post Eric Benavides Founder of Backyard Workroom – Small Business Show 337 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you switched to a work from home business model during the pandemic, you may now be working on a plan to get your team back into the office. What’s the best method to start in-person schedules again? How do you transition those workers that don’t want to work in […]
The post Managing Hybrid Work Schedules for your Small Business – Small Business Show 336 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We love getting a chance to talk with business owners that have carved out a successful niche for themselves. Today we’re sitting down with Dean Hung, Founder of Orchid Insanity. Dean has built a successful business selling Orchids on his website, eBay and Etsy. Listen and learn about the challenges […]
The post Orchid Insanity Founder Dean Hung – Small Business Show 335 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today on The Small Business Show we check in with David Carpenter, Founder of Gamiotics and the Seize the Show entertainment group. But first, it’s listener Q&A where your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton give advice to a parent of a first-time entrepreneur. Join us! 00:00:00 […]
The post Advising a Young Entrepreneur and Gamiotics Check in – Small Business Show 334 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they sit down with Puffco Founder and CEO, Roger Volodarsky. The episode is a master class in building a niche business to produce the best products and customer experience that is possible. Roger is a true champion of creating products that […]
The post Roger Volodarsky Founder and CEO of Puffco – Small Business Show 333 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Giving something of value away to customers before they place an order is a common sales and marketing technique. This reciprocity tactic is a powerful way to use persuasion to attract new customers to your business. But what about using it in other ways? With your employees, suppliers, and partners? […]
The post The Power of Reciprocity – Small Business Show 332 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to manage employee reviews for your team? Should you use an objective, numerical rating system or stick with a more subjective process? Join us today as your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss ways to make reviews a productive and positive experience for employees and […]
The post Employee Reviews and What to do When You’re Stuck – Small Business Show 331 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
This week on The Small Business Show, your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss choosing your ownership and why distractions can be valuable. Then it’s a wrap-up of LinkedIn with a focus on how to use the platform to grow your business, make connections and build your personal brand. […]
The post Ownership, Distractions and a LinkedIn Wrap Up – Small Business Show Episode 330 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
On this episode of The Small Business Show, hear why co-host Shannon Jean believes LinkedIn is one of the most underutilized tools for Small Business owners. We jump into the WHY both you and your Small Business should have a presence on LinkedIn with some enlightening personal anecdotes and lessons […]
The post Why Your Small Business Needs to be on LinkedIn – Small Business Show Episode 329 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Over the past 6-seasons on The Small Business Show, we frequently discuss the tactics and actions required to make the jump from Employee to Employer – leaving the comfort of a 9-5 job to start your own Small Business and to create the Charmed Life we promote on the show. […]
The post Tra Williams, Author of Boss Brain – Small Business Show Episode 328 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you are a Small Business owner selling any kind of product or service, is selling and marketing on eBay part of your long-term strategy? We think it should be! Join us today as we speak with Rebecca Michals, eBay Director of Community and Engagement to learn why and how […]
The post Rebecca Michals, eBay Director of Community and Engagement – Small Business Show Episode 327 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you willing to do everything to make your Small Business succeed or do find certain tasks “below you”? Join us for this episode of The Small Business Show to hear why your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton believe that cleaning the toilets is a crucial step towards success […]
The post Why Your Attitude about Cleaning the Toilet is a Success Indicator – Small Business Show 326 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton for a discussion about what phrases to avoid in-person and with written communication. Then it’s time to discuss very unconventional methods to share your story with both your customers, employees, and partners. Listen in and then join us at the Small Business […]
The post Controlling Your Vernacular and Unconventional Ways to Promote Your Business Story – Small Business Show Episode 325 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Joining us for this episode of The Small Business Show is Howard Tiersky, CEO of FROM, a company that describes itself as a Digital Transformation Agency. Howard is going to help us learn about successful digital product launches and how to get our companies ready for the digital future. Howard […]
The post Howard Tiersky – Business Digital Transformation – Small Business Show Episode 324 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Following up on episode 321 where we questioned if ADHD is a “disorder or super-power” for Small Business owners, we are joined today by Brittany Smith, a Cognitive Neuroscientist with a specialty in helping people overcome the challenges of ADHD. Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as they […]
The post Brittany Smith – Cognitive Neuroscientist – Managing Entrepreneur ADHD – Small Business Show 323 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
One of the opportunities of owning a business that we discuss on the show often is being able to create your own story. Molding a powerful narrative around your business, your brand, your products, and even yourself can be one of the most rewarding and powerful aspects of being a […]
The post Multimedia Storytelling with Bailey Barnard of Media Stone Creative – Small Business Show 322 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Having ADHD as a kid is challenging and can be a huge obstacle to being successful in school. There’s no doubt that as parents and educators, we need to continue to develop new systems to help ADHD kids be successful during their formative years. But what about beyond our youth? […]
The post Can ADHD be a Super-Power for Small Business Owners? Small Business Show Episode 321 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they work through the Hiring Process with a new employee for one of Dave’s small businesses, Backbeat Media. We will discuss attracting talent by using LinkedIn Jobs, vetting prospective candidates, and tips and techniques for holding interviews. We also learn about […]
The post The Hiring Process: Attracting, Vetting and Interviewing – Small Business Show 320 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s not often that we have a guest running a business that has been in operation for over 90-years. A company that may have started small but has grown to 5 locations in Southern California with over 80 employees. Tom Blumenthal has had the challenging task of stewarding a storied […]
The post Tom Blumenthal – President and CEO of GEARYS Beverly Hills – Small Business Show Episode 319 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Entrepreneurs and Small Business owners, we often hear these phrases: That won’t work. If it’s such a good business idea, why hasn’t anyone else done it? Maybe you should stay in your lane. You should be more realistic. Naysayers are all around us. Join your hosts Shannon Jean and […]
The post Fueling Your Success with the Tears of Naysayers – Small Business Show 318 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are Small Businesses getting their legally mandated share of government contracts? Lloyd Chapman dug into this issue and was so concerned with the results that he founded the American Small Business League to fight for the rights of Small Business owners and their access to government contracts. Join your hosts […]
The post Lloyd Chapman – Founder American Small Business League – Small Business Show Episode 317 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they celebrate the 6th anniversary of The Small Business Show! Your hosts then jump into a conversation about the Luxury of Exhausting Work – a concept you definitely want to learn more about. Then it’s on to a listener question about the pros […]
The post The Luxury of Exhausting Work + Hiring Rock Stars – Small Business Show 316 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When asked recently what encouragement he could provide to a new entrepreneur, Elon Musk replied: “If you need encouragement, don’t become an entrepreneur.” Your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton take a deep dive into this comment and develop ways to build a system that provides built-in encouragement based on […]
The post Elon Musk: If you need encouragement, don’t become an entrepreneur – Small Business Show 315 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s time for more small business therapy on episode 314 of The Small Business Show. We start out with your co-host Dave Hamilton discussing his hiring challenges for a very specific position within one of his businesses. After we work on that issue it’s on to Shannon Jean’s new Concept […]
The post Hiring too Slowly and the Concept of Levers – Small Business Show 314 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
A popular topic on The Small Business Show is getting started – taking action to get your Small Business started so you can begin your journey towards living that Charmed Life we have been discussing for the past 6-years. But what actions do you need to take when you are […]
The post Creating an Exit Strategy and Valuing Your Business – Small Business Show Episode 313 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How can you track new customer leads and commitments you have made to your customers without using a complex CRM software system? Join us today for more Small Business Therapy where your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton help a listener come up with a simple system to manage leads […]
The post Resources for Tracking Leads and Requirements – Small Business Show Episode 312 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s time once again for a Small Business Therapy session! On this episode of the Small Business Show, co-host Shannon Jean describes (rants?) his frustration to Dave Hamilton with a customer fraud situation and asks about the best methods to avoid fraud in the future. We also focus on how […]
The post Fighting Customer Fraud and Leveraging Relationships – Small Business Show Episode 311 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Does the Parler App and business have a free speech problem or just a Small Business problem? Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as they discuss what happens when you rely too much on a single supplier or customer for your success. Hear why Dave thinks “If you […]
The post Free Speech or Just a Bad Business Decision? Small Business Show Episode 310 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to the first Small Business Show experience of 2021! We hope you had a great holiday, all things considered, and we’re excited to be with you for what will surely be a terrific year with some tremendous success for all of us. Join us as your hosts Shannon Jean […]
The post Our 2020 Small Business Report + 2021 Trends to Watch for – Small Business Show Episode 309. appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to another Small Business Show experience. This is the show that is by, for, and about Small Business owners. Today’s episode is a grab bag of topics that your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have gathered throughout the year. Small yet important topics that we want to spend […]
The post Time to Shake the SBS Box, Questions instead of statements, Sunk Costs and more! Small Business Show Episode 308 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We talk about decision making frequently on The Small Business Show. One of our oft-repeated bits of advice that came from a previous guest was to never make fear-based decisions for your business. Today on the show we have a guest that is all about making Data-Driven Decisions and how […]
The post Jack Tompkins Founder of Pineapple Consulting – Small Business Show Episode 307 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As we wrap up a very interesting and often challenging Small Business year, it’s time to revisit those tasks and opportunities to take advantage of before we close out December. On this episode of the Small Business Show, your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton share their strategies for closing out the year on […]
The post End of Year Small Business Tasks and Opportunities – Small Business Show Episode 306 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We have spoken to hundreds of Small Business owners over the past 6-years here on the show. A small batch of those folks were franchise owners that have had success with various franchise opportunities. Today on the show, we get a chance to talk to Andrew Millar, a Franchise Sales […]
The post Andrew Millar – Franchising Success uBreakiFix – Small Business Show Episode 305 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There’s nothing better than having a Small Business Show listener reach out to us with a request to be on the show. Recently, we were contacted by a listener via LinkedIn with a compelling message about his experience starting and selling a Small Business and about the challenges of being […]
The post Evan Samet – Perseverance in the Time of Covid – Small Business Show 304 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There’s so much to figure out with digital marketing on social channels like Facebook and Instagram. Techniques for finding success need to be continually measured and updated since what worked a few months ago may no longer have an impact. Finding a trusted source for help can be a challenge. […]
The post Traci Reuter – Founder of Divine Social – Small Business Show Episode 303 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, we are all laser-focused on creating healthy and profitable businesses as part of the path to living a Charmed Life. But what about building your own personal brand? Expanding off of your business success to create a network of success based just on who you are. […]
The post Brian Burke – Personal Branding and LinkedIn Success – Small Business Show Episode 302 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small Businesses come in all shapes and sizes. Some of us want to build companies with large teams of employees and multiple locations while others want to be solopreneurs to create a Charmed Life without those responsibilities. Joining us on the show today is Lise Cartwright, founder of Hustle and […]
The post Lise Cartwright – Hustle and Groove – Small Business Show 301 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s the 300th episode of The Small Business Show! We start this special episode with a conversation about some of the most important lessons we have learned over the past 6-years of recordings and guests. Then it’s on to a great interview! Want people to remember your name? Feed them. […]
The post Chelsea Martin – Noms Bake Shop – Small Business Show Episode 300 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today we get to focus on one of my least favorite, yet arguably most important topics for Small Business owners. Managing your accounting and cash flow is critically important to make your business successful and to keep it healthy. The reason accounting isn’t my favorite topic is that I am […]
The post Courtney De Ronde – TDT CPAs and Advisors – Small Business Show 299 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We are flooded with information each day – articles, headlines, podcasts, news, and more. Today, our guest runs several businesses built around curating this flood of content into something worthwhile to read or listen to. Stories that have lasting value, and that can change your life. Uri Bram is the […]
The post Uri Bram CEO of The Browser – Small Business Show Episode 298 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Interested in starting a Small Business selling private-label products on Amazon and other marketplaces? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they meet Janis Carmena of Ecommerce Queen Bee. Janis shares her story of success that has led her to help others succeed with private-label sales. There’s a […]
The post Ecommerce Queen Bee – Janis Carmena – Small Business Show Episode 297 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today on The Small Business Show as we discuss ways to make your customer service solutions remarkable. Learn about the Two Tokens concept of customer service and how it is used to diffuse conflict and get customers back on your side when problems occur. Also discussed is how […]
The post Creating Remarkable Customer Service – Small Business Show 296 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s time for your questions on The Small Business Show! On this episode Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean take on three topics that need solutions including providing health care for you and your employees, taking loans from family members, and when the right time to hire new employees. Join us […]
The post Listener Questions about Health Insurance, Family Funding and Hiring – Small Business Show episode 295 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Love them or hate them, meetings are a necessary part of running your Small Business. So how do you structure your meetings to make them successful, efficient, and productive? On this episode of The Small Business Show, join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as they take a deep […]
The post Successful Meeting Strategies — Small Business Show 294 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Why do some people seem to be so lucky? Can you make yourself luckier than others? How can luck impact your Small Business? Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean today for episode 293 of the Small Business Show to answer these questions and more! 00:00:00 Small Business Show #293 for […]
The post Attracting and Amplifying Luck – Small Business Show episode 293 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Managing failure is a huge part of being a successful Small Business owner. How you work through failure, how you frame those failures in the stories you share with others and the story inside of your head are all a part of building your talent stack and learning as you […]
The post Embracing Failure to Achieve Success – Small Business Show Episode 292 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being comfortable and confident speaking in front of people is an important part of Small Business success. Many of us find the idea of speaking in front of people to be uncomfortable at the least and sometimes downright terrifying. So, how do we get over these fears and add public […]
The post Victoria Lioznyansky – Brilliant Speakers Academy – Small Business Show Episode 291 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean for a special episode of The Small Business Show where we argue that your actions far outweigh the importance of your idea when you are seeking Small Business Success. We then jump into a discussion about the mistakes we have made (so […]
The post Actions are Greater Than Ideas – Small Business Show 290 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
I am always excited when I can combine two topics that I really love: Small Business and outdoor activities like fishing, hunting, and camping. Today on the show we get to meet Adam Gifford, Founder, and CEO of TackleHack, an online marketplace for outdoor enthusiasts. What I love about TackleHack […]
The post Adam Gifford – Founder of TackleHack.com – Small Business Show Episode 289 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
This week, Dave is spending time with his family before his kids head back to college so we are bringing you one of our favorite episodes from 2018. As you may have heard, we are on a mission to make the term Small Business into a verb, since so much […]
The post Powering Through the Daily Grind of Your Small Business – Small Business Show Episode 288 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Having the opportunity to create your own reality is one of the best parts of being a Small Business owner. Your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have been encouraging our listeners to lead a “Charmed Life” for the past 5-years as we have shared the importance of your mindset, […]
The post Michele Molitor – Founder of Nectar Consulting – Small Business Show Episode 287 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There is one powerful way to improve your Small Business that we talk about frequently on The Small Business Show: taking ACTION. When you step away from talking and set your ideas aside to take action, you will set in motion powerful waves of awesomeness throughout your Small Business. In […]
The post Actions you can take NOW to improve your Small Business – Small Business Show Episode 286 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Getting your business noticed is a constant challenge. Where do you advertise? What’s the best way to connect with potential customers, and how do you maximize your limited advertising dollars to help grow your Small Business? I have asked myself these questions over and over with each Small Business that […]
The post Taylor Jacobson – Small Business Marketing – Small Business Show Episode 285 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Cash is the lifeblood of every Small Business. Without enough cash, or enough data to manage your cash flow decisions, your Small Business is not going to succeed. We are always looking at new tools and techniques to help us understand what is going on with our cash situation – tools […]
The post Guido Shulz CEO of Bento for Business – Small Business Show Episode 284 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There are not many places I enjoy more than hiking along a river with a fishing pole or sitting in a duck blind with friends. Since I also love Small Business, I am always interested in meeting people that have created businesses in the outdoor space. Bringing together a love […]
The post Brad Luttrell – Co-Founder of GoWild – Small Business Show Episode 283 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We love learning about things we know nothing about. With both of your hosts having been with their spouses for decades, the world of online dating is a mystery to us. And while that’s a good thing for us, it seems like online dating apps have taken over the world […]
The post Amanda McGrew – Founder of Playoff Dating App – Small Business Show Episode 282 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Education is ripe for disruption. In K-12 public school systems that have bloated administration and teachers that never have enough funding to properly run their classrooms and the cost of college increasing exponentially and saddling young people with massive debt as they are just started out. Today we are excited […]
The post Grant Aldrich – Founder of OnlineDegree – Small Business Show Episode 281 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We are firm believers that all Small Businesses should create a private “board of advisors” to help you build a more robust system for achieving success. One of the most important people on that board is your attorney. Today we are excited to be joined by Scott Reib, an attorney […]
The post Scott Reib – Founder of Reib Law – Small Business Show Episode 280 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We love to check back in with previous guests to see what they are up to, how their businesses are doing, and what new projects they are working on. Today we have a serial entrepreneur that has been on the show previously to talk about his experience and his latest […]
The post Kelan Raph Founder of MarketM8 – Small Business Show Episode 279 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Our listeners may not know that both Dave and I have sons that just graduated High School and are headed to college in the fall. We have both discussed the lengthy process of getting everything prepared to help our kids be successful when applying for and ultimately choosing a college. […]
The post Keirsten Sires Founder of LRT Sports – Small Business Show Episode 278 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
I recently heard a quote from a successful business owner this week that went something like this: “Hire an assistant and double your income.” I thought about this and realized it encapsulates so much about creating a system to allow you to get outside of your business to focus on […]
The post Anne and Mark Lackey of HireSmart Virtual Assistants – Small Business Show Episode 277 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Small businesses have been hit so hard during the Covid lockdown – but maybe none as much as personal services like barbers, salons, and gyms. Today on the show we have a guest that specializes in implementing systems specifically for gyms, personal trainers, CrossFit, yoga studios, and more. I couldn’t […]
The post Derek Vervoorn of Untapped Revenue – Small Business Show Episode 276 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We’ve been focusing on the power of Systems on recent episodes of the Small Business Show and I’m excited to bring another perspective to the conversation with our guest today. Systems are what allow your Small Business to adapt and succeed. They also allow you to expand your business beyond […]
The post David Jenyns of Systemology – Small Business Show Episode 275 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean both subscribe to Scott Adams’ philosophy of Systems over Goals. Systems give you open-ended processes that you adjust over time to continually learn and succeed. When we were contacted by Ravi Abuvala from Scaling with Systems, we knew our listeners would benefit from […]
The post Ravi Abuvala Founder of Scaling with Systems – Small Business Show Episode 274 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today for a special edition of The Small Business Show! Your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton dive into topics related to surviving and thriving during and after the Coronavirus lockdown. Topics include dealing with anxiety, managing your productivity, and building customer loyalty in times of crisis. We […]
The post Resource Update for Small Business Owners – Small Business Show 273 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Cashflow, access to capital and building wealth. These are frequent topics on The Small Business Show and we are always interested in learning more about increasing each of these. Better cash flow, access to more capital and creating a long term system for building wealth are part of any Small […]
The post Daniel Blue Founder of Quest Education – Small Business Show Episode 272 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How do you go about creating a successful business built around creativity, theatrical experiences and great content? Joining us today is David Carpenter, Founder of Tilted Windmills Theatricals and Gamiotics to share his experience as a producer of traditional theatre experiences as well as creating new interactive experiences with massive […]
The post David Carpenter – Tilted Windmills and Gamiotics Founder – Small Business Show 271 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We live in a digital world and our devices hold critical data for our businesses and personal lives. What strategies are you putting into place to protect your data for yourself, your Small Business and your team? Joining your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton this week is Brian Gill, […]
The post Brian Gill – Gillware Data Recovery – Small Business Show Episode 269 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Things are changing daily as we battle through this war with the COVID-19 virus. Right now the focus is on stopping the spread of the virus, but Small Business owners are also trying to keep their businesses afloat and keep their team employed. We are getting many questions coming in […]
The post Special Edition – COVID-19 Resources for Small Businesses – Small Business Show Episode 270 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We all need help from time to time. We work hard to help the Small Business Community here each week and to create a community to help one another get through the struggles of starting and running a Small Business. But what if your Small Business is all about helping […]
The post Interview with Marcella Cox of Kindful Body – Small Business Show Episode 268 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We are living in unprecedented times. Every Small Business is being or will be impacted by the Wuhan Coronavirus. We recently discussed how to plan for and respond to disasters. On this episode of The Small Business Show your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean first share resources for getting […]
The post Surviving and Thriving in Times of Crisis – Small Business Show 267 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
With the coronavirus situation, many people are experiencing working from home – perhaps for the first time. Working from home can be a great experience but like most things, there are pros and cons and ways to take advantage of the benefits while mitigating the negatives. Join us for this […]
The post Tips and Tools for Working from Home – Small Business Show Episode 266 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What happens when your work ethic doesn’t match up with your business partner’s? And how should you communicate to a potential business partner about your work ethic expectation? Join us on this episode of The Small Business Show to learn about managing work ethic expectations and how to resolve work […]
The post Does Your Work Ethic Match Your Partner’s? Small Business Show 265 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How do you handle emergency situations when they come up at your Small Business? When (because it will) disaster strikes, how you respond and manage your team and your business can make the difference between success and failure. Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton as they share tips […]
The post Planning for, Surviving and Thriving During Disasters – Small Business Show 264 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the difference between being addicted to productivity and being a workaholic? How can you embrace extreme productivity without blowing up the rest of your life as a Small Business owner? Join us today on this episode of the Small Business Show to discuss how to ramp up your productivity […]
The post Productivity and the Art of Efficiency – Small Business Show Episode 263 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What type of people are the best employees? Does experience outweigh education? How important is personality? Are there certain traits that you can look for that can predict success within your Small Business when hiring? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they answer these questions and share […]
The post What Type of People Make the Best Employees? – Small Business Show 262 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being successful with one Small Business is a great accomplishment. Once you have some success, do you focus on your existing business, or challenge yourself to try something new? Joining us today, Henry Lopez is a serial entrepreneur that has bought and sold businesses as well as starting brand new […]
The post Interview with Henry Lopez – Serial Entrepreneur and Host of The How of Business – Small Business Show 261 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
All of us at one time or another have thought of a product that would make our lives easier, something we could use ourselves and maybe even offer for sale to other people. Most of these ideas are just that, ideas that don’t go anywhere. Today we have a couple […]
The post Interview with Michelle and Jake Sendowski of Souper Products – Small Business Show 260 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Credibility and trust are a critical part of Small Business success. Potential customers need to know that your business is trustworthy and that your employees are working on the customer’s best interests. A Credibility Funnel is a path used to build trust with potential customers and to remove any concerns […]
The post Building a Credibility Funnel for your Small Business – Small Business Show Episode 259 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s a new year full of new opportunities for you and your Small Business! Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they discuss the Consumer Electronics Show and how pre-show planning is the key to having a successful and profitable event. Listen in to episode 258 of the […]
The post Planning for Trade Show Success – Small Business Show Episode 258 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You have a successful Small Business, but want to increase revenue, expand your brand awareness and create new revenue streams. This week on the Small Business Show, your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton talk about ways to expand your business, your brand and your income. Listen in and then […]
The post Expanding Your Brand and Increasing Revenue Streams – Small Business Show 257 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Happy New Year, everyone! As we take a day to enjoy celebrating the beginning of the new year with our families, we share one of our favorite episodes from 2017 with you. Happy New Year everyone! Are you a Closer? On the Small Business Show, we often say that all business […]
The post Best of SBS – Interview with Hardcore Closer, Ryan Stewman – Small Business Show 256 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As we enjoy Christmas Day with family and friends, we bring you one of our favorite episodes from 2017. Merry Christmas to you and yours! What’s more difficult? Starting up a new company or taking over and changing the culture of a 4th generation small business? Join us today on […]
The post Best of SBS – Interview with Rick Stuart of Listo Corp – Small Business Show 255 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As the saying goes: “All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.” The same can be said of Small Business owners. If you don’t give yourself the time and permission to relax, regroup and re-energize, you are going to limit your performance and impact your Small Business in […]
The post Why and How Downtime is Important for Small Business Success – Episode 254 Small Business Show appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Defining what success means to you is a critical part of developing a system to achieve what you want, both in your Small Business and personal life. On this episode of the Small Business Show, join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they discuss how to develop a […]
The post To be Successful, First Define What Success Means to You – Small Business Show 253 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As we wrap up another awesome Small Business year, it’s time to revisit those tasks and opportunities to take advantage of before we close out December. On this episode of the Small Business Show, your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton share their strategies for closing out the year on a high […]
The post 2019 Small Business End of Year Tasks – Small Business Show 252 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Hundreds of Small Business owner guests on the Small Business Show have been asked this same question: What is the best mistake you have ever made? A mistake that taught you the most, something you remember to this day? Join us for Part Two of the Small Business Show where […]
The post Best Mistake Show – Part Two. Small Business Show Episode 251 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Hundreds of Small Business owner guests on the Small Business Show have been asked this same question: What is the best mistake you have ever made? A mistake that taught you the most, something you remember to this day? Join us for episode 250 of the Small Business Show where […]
The post Best Mistake Show – Part One. Small Business Show Episode 250 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today on the show, we are fortunate to have a successful reseller as well as a builder of communities to support other sellers. Dominic Carone is known as the Prime Time Treasure Hunter on YouTube, with over 8,000 subscribers that come to him for advice and support. As well, Dominic […]
The post Interview with Dominic Carone – Prime Time Treasure Hunter – Small Business Show 249 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You have heard your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean repeatedly discuss the power of optimism, of creating your own Success Story and embracing the power of yes to create a system of success. But what about failure? Are we shortchanging ourselves and other business owners by neglecting to focus […]
The post The Power of a Failure Resume – Small Business Show 248 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Simple marketing messages resonate with your potential customers. They allow you to connect with a customer and promote your brand. But the power of simplicity goes way beyond just marketing. Today on the Small Business Show, your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean, discuss three areas that benefit dramatically from […]
The post Simplicity Sells and Creates a Cycle of Success – Small Business Show 247 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today on the Small Business Show to learn how to manage a one-way contract situation. Dave Hamilton shares his experience when negotiating a vague contract and why you might not want to help make the contract better. Listen in as Dave uses Pacing and Leading persuasion techniques to […]
The post One Way Contracts and the Power of Story – Small Business Show 246 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton are traveling this week so we are bringing you one of our favorite episodes from 2017 with the owners of Tanglefree Waterfowl. There’s a lot to learn from this one! What’s the best way to build your companies brand and create fans that […]
The post Tanglefree Waterfowl Interview– Small Business Show 245 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
One of the most frequently repeated pieces of advice that we give on the show is to get involved with a board of advisors and to connect with other business owners. Connecting with a group of diverse business owners and executives is a powerful way to build relationships and to […]
The post Paul Witkay – Alliance of CEOs – Small Business Show 244 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today on the show, we’re fortunate to have David Dawson with us, owner of The Instant Print Shoppe. David is going to talk all about printing as well as his journey as a small business owner. Regular listeners of the Small Business Show will know that we are passionate about […]
The post Interview with David Dawson of Instant Print Shoppe – Small Business Show 243 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We all know how powerful saying No is. In fact, we’ve done shows where we discuss just that – focusing your power by saying no. But what if you are on the other side of that no? How do you work around being shut down? What techniques can you use […]
The post Turning No into Yes – Small Business Show 242 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We often talk about outsourcing with off-shore companies on the Small Business Show. Back in April, we focused on using outsourcing as a resource for delegating and on last weeks episode, Dave shared some of his frustrations about being impatient and expecting perfection when using outsourcing for a project. Today, […]
The post Outsourcing Secrets with Curt Zweier of C3S Software – Small Business Show 241 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Should your Small Business make loans to employees that are in a bind and if so, what policies and procedures do you need to put in place to protect yourself? And creating your own reality is great, but what about the reality of not being able to pay your bills? […]
The post Listener Questions about Employee Loans and Alternative Finance Sources – Small Business Show 240 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Every Small Business moves through cycles. From Creation, launch, growth and the grind, are you ready to adapt your skill set to each cycle? On this episode of the Small Business Show, we will explore each of these business cycles and more while we highlight the opportunities and pitfalls of […]
The post Adapting to Business Cycles – Small Business Show 239 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What is Intentional Tension and how can you use it to achieve more with your Small Business? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean for this episode of the Small Business Show to hear why introducing Intentional Tension to your company culture can increase productivity and produce higher quality […]
The post Intentional Tension and When People Quit! – Small Business Show 238 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As regular listeners know, we recently welcomed Mint Mobile on to the show as a sponsor. What they don’t know is before those sponsor spots started, we met with Mint Mobile’s Chief Marketing Officer, Aron North and we were so impressed with the story of Mint and how it began […]
The post Mint Mobile: Chief Marketing Officer Aron North on Small Business Show 237 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today as we welcome Garry VonMyhr, Co-Founder of Tech Defenders, Mobile Defenders and Genius iPhone Repair to discuss his journey starting and running multiple businesses in the mobile electronics space. We all know that mobile devices, phones, laptops, and tablets are critically important in the business and educational […]
The post Interview with Garry VonMyhr from Tech Defenders – Small Business Show 236 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Mastering accountability for yourself is critically important for the success of your Small Business. Now it’s time to teach the same skills to your employees and contractors to create a culture of accountability that will lead to your inevitable success. Part 2 in our series on Accountability, today on the […]
The post Teaching Employee Accountability – Small Business Show 235 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Have you found the Small Business Show useful? You can give a little love back to the show by leaving a quick review for us. It has a tremendous impact and could be the most powerful thing you do today. Thanks! Being focused on accountability is a powerful way to […]
The post Accountability Leads to Success – Small Business Show 234 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
For Small Businesses, making the sale is only half the battle. How we handle things after the sale is crucial to developing customer loyalty and encouraging repeat buyers. Today on the Small Business Show, your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton discuss four after-sale situations where you have a chance […]
The post Building Customer Loyalty and Repeat Buyers – Small Business Show 233 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
One of the most challenging times when developing a new product or service or when starting a new business is when you are close to being ready to launch. You are at the 80-90% completion point, but you just want to make a few changes, add another feature, run one […]
The post Delivering a Minimally Viable Product – Small Business Show 232 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you maxing out rewards programs for hotels, airlines and credit card companies for your Small Business? You should be and today on the Small Business Show we share a few examples of why you’re missing out on some big benefits if you ignore these programs. Join your hosts Shannon […]
The post Rewards Programs, Vetting Potential Partners, and Sexual Harassment – Small Business Show 231 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Continuing with our series on subscription-based businesses, we’ve been fortunate to meet some very smart folks that have started or transitioned to a subscription model for their product or service. This week, we get to learn from a founder that created a business to help others succeed in the software […]
The post Interview with Christian Owens Co-Founder of Paddle – Small Business Show 230 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The post Creating a Habit Stack – Small Business Show 229 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are Podcasts a good marketing tool for your Small Business? Can you connect with your customers on a different level by hosting your own Podcast and if so, how do you get started? Join us today on this episode of the Small Business Show to find out about this topic […]
The post Using a Podcast as a Marketing Tool – Small Business Show 228 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We constantly talk about maximizing our time on the Small Business Show and how using our time wisely is one of the key aspects of being successful as a Small Business owner. Automating processes and using tools to manage repetitive actions is part of a system to increase your productivity […]
The post Interview with Greg Scown of Smile Software – Small Business Show 227 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s in a name? Everything when it comes to your company or brand! As founders, owners, and stewards of Small Businesses, we all know how important your company or brand name is. Joining us today on the Small Business Show, Mike Pile, Founder of Uppercase Branding discusses his own business […]
The post Branding and Naming Strategies with Mike Pile of Uppercase Branding – Small Business Show 226 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Using persuasion techniques when working with customers and your employees can help everyone get the results they want. Specifically, using Pacing and Leading can help you build empathy and create a connection between people that then allows you to achieve a positive outcome. “Pacing builds trust because people see you […]
The post Positive Influence by Pacing and Leading – Small Business Show 225 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being proactive when communicating with your customers helps to build trust and credibility. What happens when your customers find out about bad news before you tell them? Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton for this episode of the Small Business Show to hear a great example of what […]
The post Communicating with Customers and Cross Promoting – Small Business Show 224 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We all have an inner judge that can help us or hold us back. Our subconscious mind is constantly absorbing information and playing it back to us, sometimes reminding us of our successes, but often replaying our failures and sabotaging our success. Can we focus the power of our subconscious […]
The post Focusing Your Subconscious to help you succeed – Small Business Show 223 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
There’s a procrastinator in all of us. When it comes to Small Business, putting things off can create problems, but it can also create opportunities. Join us today for episode 222 of the Small Business Show to hear how you can overcome this natural tendency and take advantage of the […]
The post Overcoming and Finding Opportunities in Procrastination – The Small Business Show 222 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Marketing your business online, whether on search engines or social media can be challenging. There are so many platforms, where do you focus most of your energy? How do you measure results and what tactics have the biggest impact with a limited marketing budget? Today on the Small Business Show, […]
The post Interview with Kirk La Sala – Digital Marketing Expert – Small Business Show 221 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Continuing our series of shows about Coaching and Mentoring, today we’re joined by Chris Prefontaine, Founder of Smart Real Estate Coach. Chris and his family have been in the Real Estate business for over 25 years and after building 100’s homes and buying and selling over 80 million in properties, […]
The post Interview with Chris Prefontaine of Smart Real Estate Coach – Small Business Show 220 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Starting a business, creating revenue streams and building wealth are topics we discuss on the Small Business Show every week. It can often seem like a daunting task: what to start first, where to focus your energy and how to develop a system based approach to achieve what you want. […]
The post Interview with Monica Shah, Founder of Revenue Breakthrough – Small Business Show 219 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you’re a Soloprenuer, there’s no one to delegate to. But, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t be delegating tasks outside of your core competency. Join us today for this episode of the Small Business Show as we discuss methods to use outsourcing to delegate so you can win the 10/1000 […]
The post Delegating by Outsourcing, Dispute Resolution, and Boomerang Employees – Small Business Show 218 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Having the fortitude to power through adversity is one of the keys to Small Business success. Every guest we’ve had on the Small Business Show has a story (usually more than one) about how getting through rough times has made them a better business owner. What strategies work best when […]
The post Overcoming Adversity – Bryan O’Connell from Meras Water Solutions – Small Business Show 217 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We had a great response to our last episode and the concept of keeping a To-Did list. Lots of emails, questions, and comments in the Small Business Support Group. A number of comments were made about the importance of tracking what you DIDN’T do – a To-Didn’t list, if you […]
The post Prioritizing, Delegating and Outsourcing – Small Business Show 216 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
On this episode of the Small Business Show, your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss how to build a reward system for volunteers or interns at your Small Business, managing your time and making connections at events and using a twist on the to-do list to see how your […]
The post What’s on Your To-Did List? Small Business Show 215 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being the owner of a single small business is challenging in itself. Owning multiple, successful businesses that you remotely manage and eventually selling them is something to be proud of. Today we’re joined by a longtime friend and business colleague, Joseph Stewart, former owner the Mac Outlet in Colorado and […]
The post Remote Small Business Management – Interview with Joseph Stewart – Small Business Show 214 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you’re selling products, logistics is a critical part of the equation and being logistics-smart can mean the difference between making a profit or losing money on a product. Should you be handling your own shipments, using Amazon’s fulfillment services or perhaps a 3rd Party Fulfillment company to get your […]
The post Interview with Kelan Raph of Optimum Supply Chain – Small Business Show 213 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Have you added a recurring income stream to your Small Business? Are you selling subscriptions, service plans or other passive income as part of your business model? Creating a recurring income stream is a powerful way to increase profits as well as creating a more lasting relationship with your customers. […]
The post Adding Recurring Revenue to your Small Business – Small Business Show 212 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We all aspire to greatness. Marketers have used this urge to be a better person, to own the best thing, to achieve the most and to be unique to create iconic brands that we all recognize. Just what is aspirational marketing and is there a way to use to in […]
The post What is Aspirational Marketing and How Can You Use it in Your Small Business? – Small Business Show 211 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We often talk about travel being one of the huge benefits of owning a Small Business. Being able to expand your world with travel is certainly a big part of living the Charmed Life of a Small Business owner. Today, we get a chance to talk with someone who’s been […]
The post Interview with Gilbert Gautereaux of HotelsVillasDirect.com – Small Business Show 210 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The only constant in business is change. Every Small Business goes through various cycles in its lifetime and you’ll need to learn to adjust your management style, your activities and your attitude to match whatever cycle your are in. How many cycles will you encounter? It really depends on the […]
The post Adapting to Business Cycles – Small Business Show 209 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Chances are, you’ll be attending a Conference or Trade Show related to your Small Business at some point. How do you maximize your time and have the best possible experience from attending a Conference or Trade Show? Join us for episode 208 of the Small Business Show to find out! […]
The post Attending Conferences and Trade Shows Like a Pro – Small Business Show 208 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When starting a Small Business, there’s a few different ways to go. You can start from scratch on your own, work with a partner to create something new, buy an existing business or purchase a franchise. We’ve talked about the first 3 many times on the show, but not much […]
The post Interview with Nick D’Agnillo of Nexus Property Management – Small Business Show episode 207 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We’re fortunate to discover so many diverse skill sets with all of the Small Business owners we get to meet on the Small Business Show. This week we are joined by Nick Zadrozny, founder and CEO of One More Cloud. We’re excited to have Nick as a guest today so […]
The post Interview with Nick Zadrozny of One More Cloud – Small Business Show Episode 206 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you a confident Small Business owner? Has showing that confidence helped build your business? Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton today on episode 205 of the Small Business Show to hear learn how your own confidence can inspire confidence in your employees and your customers – leading […]
The post Confidence is a Key Factor in Success – Small Business Show 205 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us this week as your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean discuss resolutions for your Small Business, how being productive is a great motivator to propel you forward and how focusing on efficiency can start your New Year off strong. We then jump into a discussion of using Debt […]
The post Small Business Cashflow, Crisis and Efficiency – Small Business Show 204 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
This week, while Dave and Shannon enjoying spending time with their family and friends for the Christmas holiday, we revisit one of our favorite episodes with Paul Downs, author of Boss Life and Small Business contributor to the New York Times and Forbes. This was a very special episode. If […]
The post Paul Downs author of Boss Life – Revisiting a Favorite. Small Business Show episode 203 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you’re a Small Business owner, chances are you like things to be done a certain way – that may be why you don’t work for someone else, doing things their way. This is a powerful trait that can push you to succeed – but, it can also turn you […]
The post Stop Micromanaging and Start Persuading – Small Business Show 202 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Most of us create businesses to support our lifestyle, but there’s some people that live a lifestyle that seems to lend itself to starting businesses. Today we’re going to talk to Jeff Anderlite, a serial business owner that has travelled the world, in what looks like to us, like a […]
The post Interview with Jeff Anderlite of Baja Llama and Ignite360 – Small Business Show 201 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today for the 200th episode of the Award Winning Small Business Show! We’re thrilled to have been ranked as the #1 Small Business Podcast by Feedspot for 2018 and we couldn’t have done it without our listeners. Your Co-Hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean thank you! Today we are […]
The post Why Collaboration is the Key to Personal and Small Business Success – Small Business Show 200 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Technology changes quickly and one of the problems we all deal with is finding a home for your old laptop, phone or tablet when you upgrade. How many of us have an old iPhone in a drawer or MacBook sitting on a shelf somewhere? Today we get a chance to […]
The post Interview with Brian Burke Founder of SellYourMac – Small Business Show 199 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We hope you are enjoying the Thanksgiving holiday with family and friends! That’s what Dave and Shannon are doing this week, so we bring you one of our favorite interviews from last year with Gurjit Sing and Kevin Chou from the Gentleman’s Garage, a Turo based Small Business that focuses […]
The post Small Business Show 198 – From the Archives: Gentleman’s Garage on Turo interview appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Let’s face it, not every decision you’ll make for your Small Business is going to be a good one. What can you do to avoid bad decisions in the first place and how can you quickly recover from the ones that slip through? Join us today on episode 197 of […]
The post Bad Decisions in your Business – How to Avoid and Recover – Small Business Show 197 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
From time to time we discuss the tools we use to run our own Small Businesses and why we couldn’t live without them. Join us today for our second installment of Tools for Small Businesses to hear from your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton about their favorite business products. […]
The post Small Business Tools for Success – Small Business Show 196 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We love answering listener questions. Not only does it make us feel much smarter than we actually are, it also allows us to connect with our listeners and help them solve problems. Send your questions to be featured on the Small Business Show! On this episode, we hear from Louis […]
The post Listener Questions: Domains, Lawsuits and Selling Your Business – Small Business Show 195 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Change is coming for you and your Small Business! How you manage change and how you integrate change into your company culture is an important part of your long term success. Join us today for episode 194 of the Small Business Show as we take a deep dive into welcoming […]
The post Embracing Change for Small Business Success – Small Business Show 194 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How important is creating content to share with your existing and potential customers to your Small Business success? And what are some of the keys to being successful with a content marketing plan? Join us today for episode 193 of the Small Business Show to hear how your co-hosts Shannon […]
The post Small Business Content Creation and Marketing – Small Business Show Episode 193 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever thought of starting a Small Business from your hobby? We often hear about home beer brewers taking the leap and launching a company built around their love of beer, but what about Cider makers? Join us today as we talk with Ben Schroeder, founder of Santa Barbara Cider! Many […]
The post Interview with Santa Barbara Cider Founder Ben Schroeder – Small Business Show 192 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to handle conflict when things go wrong with a customer, partner or employee? Join your hosts Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton for this episode of the Small Business Show to hear about their experiences in managing, resolving and de-escalating conflicts that will inevitably try to ruin […]
The post Managing Conflict with Customers and Partners – Small Business Show 191 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Start a business and you become a leader. Not just for employees, but to your customers, suppliers and other partners. What type of leadership style creates the most successful Small Businesses? Join your hosts Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean today to learn about different leadership styles and why you’ll need […]
The post What Type of Leadership Leads to Small Business Success? – Small Business Show 190 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Getting paid might be the most important task for your Small Business. Processing payments quickly for your customers, avoiding fraud and managing your cash are all critical and daily tasks. Today’s guest on the Small Business Show has a wealth of experience in the payments processing business and is currently […]
The post Bill Ready Paypal COO Interview, Funds Now and Customer Experience – Small Business Show 189 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Time is arguably our most important asset as Small Business owners. You can’t create more of it, but you can increase your efficiency and hack how you use time each day to make it work in your favor. Today on episode 188 of the Small Business Show, your hosts Dave […]
The post Time Management Tips and Tricks for Small Business Owners – Small Business Show 188 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Everyone knows that coffee is an important part of every Small Business startup, right? With 400 million cups enjoyed every-single-day in the United States, this seems like a great opportunity for a Small Business. But, how do you get your voice heard in this crowded market? How do you create […]
The post The Business of Coffee: Café Rica Founders Interview – Small Business Show 187 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Being persistent is a critical part of making your Small Business succeed. From the very start, you will face obstacles that you’ll have to break through and go around to create something from nothing. Some of these will be mental, some physical and some logistical. Join us today for episode […]
The post Persistence is Key to Small Business Success – Small Business Show 186 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s more important for your Small Business, profits or cashflow? If you’re a regular listener of the Small Business Show, you know what we think! Join us today as we dig deep into to the importance of managing your available cash and how to get through the inevitable cash-crunch when […]
The post How To Manage Your Cashflow – Small Business Show 185 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Getting customers to spend their hard earned dollars at your Small Business is tough, right? How about if you had to convince them to eat insects to get those dollars into your bank account? Join us today as we visit with James Rolin of Cowboy Cricket Farms and hear how […]
The post Small Business Interview with James Rolin of Cowboy Cricket Farms – Small Business Show 184 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
A common misconception is that it’s the great idea that makes a Small Business successful. Join us today on the Small Business Show to hear us dispel that myth and discuss taking Action to propel your business to success. Don’t wait. You’ll hear that message over and over again on this […]
The post Moving from Idea to Action – Get Started Today With Your Small Business – Small Business Show 183 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you own a Small Business, it’s bound to happen: a long-time employee drops a bomb by telling you they are leaving to take a position at another company. How you react can have a dramatic impact both inside and outside your business. Your actions will send a message to […]
The post Loyalty, Losing Key Employees, and Managing Change at your Small Business – Small Business Show 182 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Creating a lifestyle business that funds your Charmed Life is a goal for many Small Business owners. Today on the Small Business Show, we’re joined by Kimanzi Constable, business owner, author, consultant and coach who has created a lifestyle business that we can all learn from. Shannon Jean and Dave […]
The post Interview with Kimanzi Constable: Corporate Consulting and Coaching – Small Business Show 181 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Keeping focused while dealing with multiple tasks can be a challenge for any Small Business owner. Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they discuss how they keep focused on the critical parts of their businesses each day. You’ll also learn about the power of taking a break, how to […]
The post Are you Focusing on the Right Things for your Small Business? Small Business Show 180 for July 18, 2018 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us this week on the Small Business Show for a discussion about current news that could impact your Small Business. Listen in and hear our thoughts about the new Supreme Court ruling regarding online sales tax rules, Amazon’s new Prime delivery business opportunity and our thoughts about mixing […]
The post Small Business News Roundup for July 2018- Small Business Show episode 179 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us this week on the Small Business Show for an insightful interview with Winemaker Tony Biagi to hear his story of moving from being employed by wineries to starting his own consulting business and eventually creating his own wine label, Patria. During this episode, you’ll learn about how Tony […]
The post Interview with Winemaker Tony Biagi – Small Business Show 178 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Hiring the right person for your Small Business is critically important. Hire wrong and you could be making a very expensive mistake. Join us today on the Small Business Show as we discuss the where, when and how of hiring. Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have hired hundreds […]
The post Hiring for your Small Business – Small Business Show episode 177 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, building and keeping trust with potential and existing customers is critical to our success. Join us today on the Small Business Show for an interview with Bjorn Burnett, a Small Business owner in the insurance and financial planning field. Bjorn has transitioned to a 2nd career […]
The post Building Trust and Using Referrals to Grow Your Small Business – Bjorn Burnett Interview– Small Business Show 176 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Getting started with your Small Business can be challenging. Finding the initiative to power through obstacles is a critically important step on your path towards Small Business world domination. Join us today to hear our tips on startup initiative as well as steps to keep initiative going when you get […]
The post Finding and Keeping Initiative for Your Small Business – Small Business Show 175 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What happens if your Small Business partnership fails? What is the best way to handle ending a partnership to avoid a major battle and to keep your focus on the continued success of your company? Join us today on the Small Business Show to hear how Shannon Jean and Dave […]
The post How to End a Small Business Partnership – Small Business Show 174 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Why are systems more important for your Small Business than goals? Join us today for episode 173 of the Small Business Show to learn more about this awesome technique to accelerate your success. After the systems discussion, we jump into details of the recently enacted GDPR privacy […]
The post Small Business Systems vs. Goals and Complying with GDPR – Small Business Show 173 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What essential Small Business Tools can you not live without? Join us today on the Small Business Show to hear from Shannon Jean and Dave Hamilton about the hardware, software and more they use to make their businesses run smoothly each day. Check the show notes below for a list […]
The post Essential Tools for Small Business Owners – Small Business Show 172 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The strength of your relationships with vendors and suppliers is critically important for the success of your Small Business. What’s the best method and when is the right time for you to start these relationships? Join us on episode 171 of the Small Business Show to hear our tips about […]
The post Forging Small Business Relationships with Vendors and Suppliers – Small Business Show 171 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Should you cut corners to speed up starting a new business? If so, what corners can you safely cut that won’t create problems for you in the future? Join us today on the Small Business Show to get our take on what you should cut and what you should not! […]
The post Removing Obstacles to Your Small Business Success – Small Business Show 170 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Longtime listeners know that we believe that saying Yes more can help your personal brand and your business, but is there a point where saying No becomes more important? We think there is, and that part of your own Success Cycle is knowing when to say No and how it […]
The post The Power of Saying NO – Small Business Show 169 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Running your Small Business is not always glamorous and full of inspiration. There’s going to be days (weeks, months) that you have to resign yourself to slogging through the muck, solving what may seem like insurmountable problems, all the while keeping yourself and your team motivated to make it through […]
The post Powering Through the Daily Grind of Running Your Small Business – Small Business Show 168 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the secret to living a Charmed Life and using your Small Businesses as fuel to create it? Join us today on the Small Business Show to learn how Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have founded a multitude of Small Businesses over their lifetimes to bring them much more than […]
The post Enriching Your Life Beyond Profits With Your Small Business – Small Business Show 167 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Is all business risk bad? Searching for “small business risk” online and you’ll find most articles and resources are focused on minimizing or avoiding risk. Listen in to today’s episode of the Small Business Show to hear why we believe that taking risks is part of the “secret sauce” of […]
The post How Much Risk is Right for Your Small Business? Episode 166 of the Small Business Show appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever been frustrated when you’re waiting for a service provider to show up or a product to arrive and they/it are late? Today we turn the tables and discuss this problem as it relates to your Small Business performance and the importance of setting, then meeting (ideally exceeding!) your customers […]
The post Setting Customer Expectations and Empowering Employees to Solve Problems – Small Business Show 165 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When there’s a disagreement with a customer, supplier or someone else, what is the best way to resolve the problem while keeping your Small Business running strong? Have you been sued or are you contemplating suing someone? Join us today on the Small Business Show where we discuss Alternative Dispute […]
The post Small Business Mediation Tips, Tricks and Advice from Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean – Small Business Show 164 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If your business includes shipping products, having a strong relationship with a packaging and logistics company is critically important – In our experience, you can “leak” a tremendous amount of your cash out through your packaging and shipping costs. To talk more about the importance of this topic, we’re thrilled […]
The post Small Business Interview with Caitlin Corkill of Paq-Source Packaging and Logistics – Small Business Show #163 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What does it take for your Small Business to rank high on search engines when customers are looking for your products or services? Should you be allocating most of your ad budget to search, or are there better methods for your particular business to connect with customers? Join us on […]
The post Search Engine Strategies for your Small Business – Small Business Show 162 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
With just about a week to go before tax filings are due for LLC and S-Corp Small Businesses, it’s time to discuss what to do when your NOT ready to file and the repercussions of missing a tax filing deadline. Join us for episode 161 of the Small Business Show […]
The post Small Business Tax Tips for Filing your Tax Returns – Small Business Show 161 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Does your Small Business rank high for “Near Me” searches on Google, Siri and Bing? Join us on this episode of the Small Business Show for tips and tricks to be sure you are optimizing your website, your address and your business map records to steer more customers to your […]
The post Optimizing your Small Business for Near Me Searches – Small Business Show #160 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Does your website communicate in ways that potential customers can quickly grasp your story, what your services or your product line are? How do you simplify your message to capture the short attention span and should you rely on your Terms and Conditions to “protect” you from your customers? If […]
The post Website Feedback, Simplifying Your Message, Acquisition Deal Sponsors and more: Small Business Show 159 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you ready to be acquired? Is your Small Business in a position to deal with a larger company that is interested in buying you for your products, your technology or your service revenue? Join us today on the Small Business Show to hear from an expert in mergers and […]
The post Interview with Mihir Shah, CEO of Drobo – Small Business Show 158 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Need help with your Small Business Online presence? How about branding, marketing, search engine optimization and the overall look and feel of your company website? Listen in to today’s episode of the Small Business Show to hear how Corey Gauteraux of G4 Design House created a company to help Small […]
The post Interview with Corey Gauteraux from G4 Design House – Small Business Show 157 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s time for a Grab Bag episode of the Small Business Show! Tips and short topics that Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean have been waiting for an open episode to share with you. Join us today while we talk about: Why attending conferences and business events can have a huge […]
The post Attending Conferences, Referred Trust, Pricing Tactics and More– Small Business Show 156 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Have an online business? Want to know how to protect yourself against copyright claims, privacy policy litigation and more? Join us today on the Small Business Show as we talk with Richard Chapo, an attorney that specializes in internet businesses, small and large. Richard has been practicing law for over […]
The post Keeping Your Online Business Legal – Interview with Attorney Richard Chapo – Small Business Show 155 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The very essence of business success is all about finding a solution to a problem. When Ladan Davia was searching for employment, she found the process of using online employment websites frustrating and the results less than useful. Like any good Entrepreneur, Ladan founded Beeya.com to make things right. Recently, […]
The post Leveling the Playing Field in Employment with Ladan Davia from Beeya.com – Small Business Show 154 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We’re starting a brand new business year with a brand new tax reform act that will impact your Small Business. Get yourself ready by listening in to this episode of the Small Business Show! On the Small Business Show, we believe that you are a better steward of your money […]
The post How will the 2018 Tax Reforms Impact Your Small Business? Small Business Show Episode 153 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Everyone is an expert…at something. Listen to this episode of the Small Business Show for tips about using your expertise to start a consulting Small Business that can help you transition from an employee to an employer. Listener James B. asks some great questions about starting his technical support consultant […]
The post Consulting as a Small Business – What you need to know – Small Business Show 152 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us for our last episode of 2017 where we share Small Business tips from our favorite shows of the past year. Dave and Shannon both have their favorite guests, topics and advice from episodes of the Small Business Show that aired during the year. We hope you’ve been able […]
The post The Small Business 2017 Year in Review – Small Business Show 151 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s your first year in business and with just a couple of weeks left in the year, what tasks should you be working on? Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean for this episode of the Small Business show that is dedicated to helping new Small Business owners close out their […]
The post First Year Small Business End of Year Checklist – Small Business Show 150 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Timing plays a critical role in the success of your business. When you launch your products, when you hire new employees, and in the case of Jarie Bolander, when you publish your book. Join us this week on the Small Business Show as we meet Jarie to discuss his new […]
The post The Entrepreneur Ethos – Interview with Jarie Bolander and Mihir Shah – Small Business Show 149 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s that time of year! With just a few weeks left before the end of the year, there are some important tasks to take care of for your Small Business. Join us on episode 148 of the Small Business Show to hear our take on what you should be doing […]
The post End of Year Small Business Tasks to Complete – Small Business Show 148 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Location, location, location. You’ve heard it before – but there’s much more to picking the right spot for your Small Business than just the location. Join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean on this episode of the Small Business Show to hear their experiences and tips for choosing the right place. […]
The post Finding the Best Location for your Small Business – Small Business Show 147 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How important are the benefits that you offer to your employees? Are they valued more than cash? And how do you keep your benefit expenses down while maximizing the impact to your employees? Join us on episode 146 of the Small Business Show for all this and more! Benefits, beyond […]
The post Small Business Employee Benefits – Maximize Impact and Minimize Cost – Small Business Show 146 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Many Small Business owners would agree, it’s not “if” but “when”. Will you have someone file a frivolous lawsuit against your company, or perhaps have a disagreement with a supplier that winds up in court. Or maybe a disgruntled employee feels like they were mistreated and they want to be […]
The post What to do When Your Small Business gets Sued – Small Business Show 145 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When the time comes to let an employee go, what are some best practices to keep your Small Business running smoothly during the transition? Should you worry about how it will impact other employees? Are there rules about how you go about firing someone in your state? Should you apologize […]
The post How to Handle Layoffs, Firings and Exits from your Small Business – Small Business Show 144 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When is it time to turn a labor of love into a real Small Business? And what pitfalls do you have to watch out for during the process? Dave and Shannon try to answer those questions and more on episode 143 of the Small Business Show! Join us today as […]
The post Podcasts as a Small Business – Sponsors and Where to Invest for the Biggest Impact – Small Business Show 143 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever have problems getting paid by your clients in a timely manner? We’ve all been there – that’s why it’s worth joining us today on the Small Business Show for tips and tricks that can improve your cash-flow by getting you paid on-time and in full. Oh, and there’s also […]
The post Tips for Choosing an Online Bank and How to Get Paid on Time – Small Business Show Episode 142 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever dream of driving an exotic sports car? How about having a dozen of them parked in your garage, all being paid for by your rental customers? This week Shannon and Dave meet two entrepreneurs who have built a fast-growing and successful Small Business using the Turo car rental platform. […]
The post Building a Rental Car Small Business on the Turo Platform – Small Business Show 141 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever been surprised by the small print in a contract that you signed for your Small Business? Join us today for episode 140 of the Small Business Show for tips on how to respond when companies try slip egregious terms and conditions into their contracts, how to shut down automatic […]
The post Small Business Contracts and Getting Paid on Time – Small Business Show 140 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best Small Business phone system? Join Dave and Shannon today on episode 139 of the Small Business Show to hear about options ranging from pricey PBX systems, to Voice Over IP services like Phone.com, RingCentral and Grasshopper. During the discussion, Shannon spends some time pointing out how critical […]
The post Small Business Phone Systems – PBX, VOIP and Mobile – Small Business Show 139 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How important is it to understand and review your Small Business Balance Sheet, Profit and Lose Statement and Cash Flow Statement and how often should you be doing it? Join us today on episode 138 of the Small Business Show for our thoughts on these issues and more! Your financial […]
The post Mistakes to Avoid and Tips about Small Business Financial Statements – Small Business Show 138 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Should you be worried about only using a .COM domain name for your Small Business? How do you deal with coming up with a domain name if your Small Business name is not available as a .COM web address? Join us for episode 137 of the Small Business Show to […]
The post Small Business Website Names and the Exciting World of Credit Card Merchant Processing – Small Business Show 137 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Do you take the time out to attend Small Business conferences and trade shows? Would you like to make some powerful connections, meet some great people and renew your energy? Listen in to episode 136 of the Small Business Show to find out how you can have all this and […]
The post Why You Should be Attending Small Business Conferences and Let’s Get Vulnerable – Small Business Show 136 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Do you run your Small Business from your home? Are you tempted to wear sweatpants everyday and move your desk close to the refrigerator for convenience? Join us today on the Small Business Show to get some great tips on how to stay motivated and disciplined while working from home. […]
The post Tips for Running Your Small Business from Home – Small Business Show 135 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to build your companies brand and create fans that are passionate about your products? Cory Fosket and Doug Butcher took a company focused on a single product line and expanded it over the last 13-years into a trusted brand for waterfowl hunters and outdoor enthusiasts. Along […]
The post Small Business Show Interview with Cory Fosket and Doug Butcher of Tanglefree Waterfowl – Small Business Show 134 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best method for naming your Small Business? Go with your instincts, listen to friends and family or use an online tool? Listen to this episode of the Small Business Show for tips to come up with a great name for your business and avoid some common mistakes with […]
The post Tips for Naming Your Small Business + Listener Questions – Small Business Show 133 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Do you know the signs that tell if a person is an Employee, Self-Employed or an Entrepreneur? Join Dave and Shannon for this episode of the Small Business Show to find out! During today’s episode, we get to spend time dissecting personality types so you can understand who would make […]
The post Employee, Self-Employed or Entrepreneur – who makes the best partners? Small Business Show 132 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s the best way to find real value in attending Trade Shows, Conferences and Workshops? Do you sit in the back row and head right back to the hotel after the event? You can probably guess what your Small Business Show co-hosts would say about that. Join us for this […]
The post Being Productive at Conferences, selling on eBay and Motivation vs. Discipline – Small Business Show Episode 131 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Could you make the leap from dog walker / poop-picker-upper to creating a software platform for service related Small Businesses? Well, Britt Alwerud did just that, creating the Handlr Business Management suite of tools to help manage your employees or contractors, communicate with customers, generate reports and perhaps most importantly, […]
The post Brittany Alwerud from Handlr Business Management – Small Business Show Episode 130 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you making a living with your Podcast? We need to talk. Join us today on the Small Business Show and learn about the business of podcasting. Specifically, what’s happening in the world of Podcast advertising, what are sponsors looking for and how is success being measured. Dave shares his […]
The post The Business of Podcasting – Small Business Show Episode 129 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What is the most important thing to remember when selling your business? Today on the Small Business Show, we continue our discussion about selling your business with advice from Abbi Vakil, inventor of the U-Socket USB wall plug. Listen in to hear us discuss cash-flow vs. profits and which is […]
The post Selling Your Small Business – Interview with Abbi Vakil of U-Socket– Small Business Show 128 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What happens when you realize that you’re NOT the best owner for your Small Business? Join us today for episode 127 of the Small Business Show to hear the story from one of your co-hosts that made just such a discovery after 13-years of being at the helm of TechRestore. […]
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Longtime listeners of the Small Business Show know that we embrace optimism with a passion. However, today we’re talking about failure. Specifically, why Small Businesses fail and how to avoid it. Dave and Shannon jump right into today’s Small Business Show with a discussion of your ROE, or Return on […]
The post How to keep your Small Business from joining the 50% of companies that fail within 5-years. Small Business Show episode 126 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality are popular buzzwords we read and hear about a lot these days. Much of it sounds like it “will be” great someday, but what about Small Businesses that are in the VR/AR space and creating businesses TODAY? Joining us for episode 125 of the Small […]
The post Small Business Interview with co-founders of GrowpoVR and GoVRed – Small Business Show episode 125 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You know the name, you’ve accepted the payment method. But, did you know that Paypal has a team of people focused solely on Small Business advocacy and public policy? Joining us today on the Small Business Show is Paul Disselkoen, Paypal Public Relations Specialist. Paul is charged with getting the voices […]
The post Interview with Paul Disselkoen of the Paypal Small Merchant Advisory Board – Small Business Show 124 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you a Closer? On the Small Business Show, we often say that all business owners are in the Customer Service business – but, we’re also in the Sales business. Wether you’re selling a product or service, you’ve got to sell to make your business grow. This week on the […]
The post Small Business Show Interview with Ryan Stewman, Founder of HardcoreCloser.com – Small Business Show episode 123 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s your Exit Strategy? You have one, right? That’s the question a business mentor asked of Kyle Baccus a few years ago that led to the eventual sale of one of his businesses. Today on the Small Business Show, Kyle joins us for a second guest spot to discuss the sale […]
The post Selling Your Small Business and Developing Multiple Revenue Streams – Kyle Baccus of KCTool Revisits – Small Business Show 122 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Stop for a moment. Think about your day. Are you doing work that should be delegated to your employees or contract workers? Small Business owner Robert is feeling overwhelmed and looking for tips to save time and increase his profits at the end of each month. Would you be surprised […]
The post Delegating more in your Small Business, learning to say no and surviving the $15 minimum wage increase – Small Business Show 121 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You’ve got questions about your Small Business and we’re here to help! Join Shannon and Dave today on the Small Business Show to hear their thoughts on setting up data sharing for a virtual office and the pros and cons of freelancers vs a business partner that has the skill set […]
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Have you used outsourced talent for specific tasks in your Small Business? Ever run into quality problems? We thought so. Neil Napier ran into so many problems outsourcing that he realized there was a business opportunity to minimize headaches and increase the quality of the talent pool and thus, JobRack was born! […]
The post Small Business Interview: JobRack Founder Neil Napier on Outsourcing – Small Business Show 119 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s as simple as it is powerful. If we were using clickbait headlines, this one would read: This One Tip Will Make Your Customers Love You! But, since we don’t do that stuff on the Small Business Show, join us this week as we dive in deeper to the Two […]
The post How to change the conversation when solving customer service problems in your Small Business – Small Business Show 118 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Can you work from anywhere? Is your dream to create a business that can be managed from Thailand, Europe, Florida and anywhere in-between? If so, you need to meet the folks from Jumpanzee. Join us on episode 117 of the Small Business Show! After spending years working for Ginormous Corp, […]
The post Small Business Interview with David Denning Co-Founder of Jumpanzee – Small Business Show 117 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We’re strong proponents of finding something you love to do and creating a business around it. Lance Lewsader had such a great time getting out of an escape room attraction a couple of years ago that he decided to create his own and Bolt NWA was born! Bolt NWA is […]
The post Small Business Interview with Lance Lewsader of Bolt NWA – Small Business Show 116 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you using video to market your Small Business? What problems does it solve and how about problems it can create? Join us today on the Small Business Show where we meet Adam Rahn of Droi Media to find answers to these questions and learn about Adam’s journey from freelancer to […]
The post Using Video to Promote Your Small Business – Adam Rahn from Droi Media – Small Business Show 115 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Have you been trained in Human Resource management? Things like legal hiring practices, at-will employment, harassment policies and employee manual development? We didn’t think so. HR issues can plague small businesses of all sizes, especially once you hit the magic 50-employee number that activates all kinds of regulations and requirements. […]
The post Small Business Human Resource Interview with Kelly Loudermilk of BuildHR – Small Business Show 114 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
In your Small Business, do you value being told when you are wrong? Would you like to have a Revenue Stack that generates cash from multiple sources? Do you know what the Scotty Principle is? Join us on Episode 113 of the Small Business Show for these topics and more! […]
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We often ask our guests on the Small Business Show to tell us about their biggest mistake in business, as well as what advice they would have given themselves if they could go back to when they were just getting started. A very common response: Better accounting, better bookkeeping! On […]
The post Small Business Interview with Justin Sisley of Digidern Bookkeeping – Small Business Show 112 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today on the Small Business Show, we discuss the launch of the Apple Market Forum, Dave’s new business venture with longtime colleague, Paul Kent. Shannon gets a chance to quiz Dave about the impetus for starting AMF and some of the juicy details behind the concept for the event that […]
The post Dave Launches Apple Market Forum, Partnerships and Embracing Apprehension – Small Business Show 111 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s in a name? Everything when it comes to your company or brand! As founders, owners and stewards of Small Businesses, we all know how important your company or brand name is. Joining us today on the Small Business Show, Mike Pile, Founder of Uppercase Branding discusses his own business […]
The post Small Business Interview with Mike Pile of Uppercase Branding – Small Business Show Episode 110 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
We began episode 109 of the Small Business Show with a plan to chat with Bob LeVitus about his new book, Working Smarter for Mac Users. We talked about the book of course, but we also covered a treasure of information about being a “Solopreneuer” for 20+ years and how creating […]
The post Small Business Interview with Bob LeVitus – Managing Distractions and Being Disciplined for Success – Small Business Show episode 109 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Problems – we all work on solving them every-single-day. Maybe the solution to a problem is the entire reason for your business to exist in the first place? Today on episode 108 of the Small Business Show, join Dave Hamilton and Shannon Jean as they focus on problem solving for your […]
The post Effective Problem Solving with Your Customers and Suppliers – Small Business Show 108 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What if you were tasked with taking a thriving brick and mortar business with an established clientele and transitioning it to an ecommerce business selling a completely different product line to a new demographic? How would you handle the stress of trying to keep existing customers happy while attracting new […]
The post Small Business Interview with Sara Beznicki of A Gilded Leaf – Small Business Show 107 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How many tasks are you “managing” at one time? How effective are you while doing those things and how does multitasking impact your creativity? Join us this week on episode 106 of the Small Business Show and find out how your hosts deal with the urge to instantly respond to Slack […]
The post Evil Multitasking or Powerful Spotlighting to Manage Your Time – Small Business Show 106 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
The thought of even pretending to fail is anathema to your hosts on the Small Business Show. However, Dave came across the concept of the Pre-Mortem and the guys go all-in today to see how it works. “A pre-mortem — also known as a premortem — is a managerial strategy […]
The post Planning for failure? Use the Pre-Mortem technique to test your project or business concept– Small Business Show 105 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
If you had the choice, would you continue the traditions of a multi-generational business that provided decades of support for those that came before you? Or would you turn things upside down and commit to growing the business and challenging yourself (and your company) to embrace new technology, new customers […]
The post Small Business Interview with David Oliva of RD Appliance Service – Small Business Show 104 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Jay Gentile has a passion for saving time, his clients as well as his own! What began as a mobile product repair business, led to SEO and web design and finally into application development and the BoosterBots family of marketing apps. Join us today on the Small Business Show and learn […]
The post Small Business Interview with Jay Gentile of BoosterBots – Small Business Show Episode 103 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
When Tyler Merritt noticed that his good friend was running a growing appliance repair business with no software to track accounting, schedules or workers, he did what good friends do: he offered to help build a customized application for the business. The guys spent about a year putting together the […]
The post Small Business Interview with Tyler Merritt from Field Harmony – Small Business Show Episode 102 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s more difficult? Starting up a new company or taking over and changing the culture of a 4th generation small business? Join us today on the Small Business Show with our guest Rick Stuart from Listo, a company founded in 1921! How would you handle taking over and managing employees […]
The post Managing and Stewarding a 4th Generation Small Business – Rick Stuart from Listo Corp – Small Business Show 101 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to the 100th episode of the Small Business Show! As they begin 2017, Dave and Shannon take a look back at some of the highlights from last year in the advice and how-to categories. Your hosts revisit tips and tricks from 8 of their favorite episodes and wrap up the […]
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As we wrap up 2016 with our last Small Business Show episode of the year, Dave and Shannon take a look back at some of the highlights of their favorite interviews from the past 12-months. Join us today we we revisit some of these moments that stuck with us! Chapters/Timestamps: […]
The post The Best Small Business Owner Interviews of 2016 – Small Business Show 99 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What would happen if a favorite business that you visit often suddenly began introducing political comments in the mix of their marketing or posting political signs in their store. Would you respect their right to do so, even if you disagreed with their politics? Join Dave and Shannon on episode […]
The post Politics and Your Small Business – Should you mix them? – Small Business Show episode 98 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, we have a duty to uphold. That duty, to our employees, partners, suppliers and service providers is to communicate in a timely manner and pay our bills on time, among other things. What happens when we fail at this? Well, that depends on how you handle […]
The post What happens when a small business owner doesn’t solve problems and lets employees down? – Small Business Show 97 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Think you can do it better? The jobs at your company, that is. Do you remember when you did every job at your business? If it’s been awhile since that time, join us today on the Small Business Show as we discuss how this “job swap” can energize you, allow […]
The post Do Your Employees Job to Gain Some Valuable Insight – Small Business Show 96 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us today on the Small Business Show to listen in on our conversation with Steve Baines, Co-Founder of Forcivity, a software development firm focused on simplifying how you access your data in cloud based applications like SalesForce. Steve’s years of experience working with data as both a consultant and […]
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One of the most trusted people in your life can be a huge help with your Small Business success – your spouse! But, there’s some important details to work out to insure success when working together. In this episode of the Small Business Show, Dave and Shannon share their experiences […]
The post Find Success Working With Your Spouse in your Small Business – Small Business Show Episode 94 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Has your Small Business lost it’s edge? Has your past success enabled people to slow down the pace of work? How do you beat back complacency and invigorate your team to take on new challenges and grow your Small Business? Maybe hiring a consultant will do the trick – someone to […]
The post Fighting Complacency and Regaining your Small Business Edge – Small Business Show 93 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to episode 92 of the Small Business Show! On today’s show, we spend some time getting updated on Shannon’s social media business experiment that he started back in June. The goal was to start a new business solely using social media and selling apps on an iPhone. No computer […]
The post Social Media Small Business Success, Finding Suppliers and Delighting Your Customers – Small Business Show Episode 92 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How do you find topics for your Small Business blog and social media posts? Would you like to be able to tie in your content with what people are already searching for online? Sounds pretty cool, but maybe expensive? Yes, and no. It is cool and it’s free! Dave and […]
The post Using Google Trends for your Small Business Content and easier ways to Get Things Done – Small Business Show 91 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
You’ve heard us talk about the flexibility vs. freedom of being a Small Business owner many times on the Small Business Show. But what if you actually did have the freedom? Freedom as in “I just sold my business, and now what?” kind of freedom? Our guest last week, Harald […]
The post Prioritizing Family and Keeping a Positive Outlook as a Small Business Owner – Small Business Show episode 90 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How easy was it for you to make the transition from doing the day-to-day work in your Small Business to teaching others to do it so you could focus on the business? Harald Sinow, co-founder of MacStation in Vancouver, realized that he needed to change his focus from being the best […]
The post Transitioning from Worker to Teacher – Small Business Interview with Harald Sinow of MacStation and Creo Development : SBS 89 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Are you involved in every decision that your employees make? Would you like to grow your business, decrease headaches and free up some much needed time? We thought so. Today on the Small Business Show, Dave and Shannon discuss how “not to be in charge” all the time and empowering […]
The post Empowering Employees and Effective Customer Communication – Small Business Show Episode 88 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
On this episode of the Small Business Show, Dave and Shannon talk about the development of the Small Business Facebook Group, what went wrong at the beginning and what is going right with the Group after making some (much needed!) changes. We discuss how Small Business owners are using the new group […]
The post Building a Facebook Small Business Group – Small Business Show episode 87 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As we all enjoy the Political Theatre that is our current Presidential Election, Dave and Shannon decide to focus this week’s topic on Politics and how it can (and will) impact your Small Business. Join us as we discuss Dave’s “crazy theory of politics”, looking at the “why” instead of […]
The post Politics vs. Bureaucracy and how both impact your Small Business – Small Business Show 86 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, when posting to public social media, what are some things you should look out for? What comments could come back (maybe years later) to cause you headaches, legal problems and money? Dave and Shannon discuss some examples of what NOT to post on social media […]
The post Turning Small Business Mistakes Into Profitable Opportunities – SBS 85 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to episode 84 of the Small Business Show! Join us this week as we spend some time following up with our recent interview with Small Business owner, NYTimes.com blogger and author, Paul Downs. Dave and Shannon then jump into a discussion about being “patently unemployable” and how identifying yourself […]
The post Boss Life Author Follow-up, the benefits of being unemployable appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How prepared are you for the challenges of running your small business? What energizes you to make it through tough times and just how transparent are you (and should you be) to your employees and everyone else that you discuss your business with? If you felt like your business was about to […]
The post Paul Downs, author of Boss Life and NYT Small Business Blogger Interview – SBS 83 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
As Small Business owners, we’re always hustling and sleep can often be a casualty of the “up late, up early” workflow. What do you do when your brain just won’t shut down long enough to get some much needed sleep? Listener Elias asks Dave and Shannon for advice about disconnecting […]
The post Adjusting Your Sleep Schedule, Recognizing Your Expertise and Planned Obsolescence – Small Business Show 82 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How to you stay healthy and keep your energy level up while you are hustling to make your Small Business a success? Join Dave and Shannon for episode 81 of the Small Business Show to hear about how these two have managed while starting and growing multiple small businesses. Before […]
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Join us today for episode 80 of the Small Business Show where we spend some time discussing our recent interview with Greg Mercer of JungleScout! Dave and Shannon both agree that Greg is a “career escape artist” and has created a unique business to take advantage of missing data and […]
The post Failure, Success, a Business in Your Pocket and New Books! Small Business Show episode 80 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today on the Small Business show we are joined by Greg Mercer of JungleScout! Greg shares his story of “escaping employment” to become a small business owner, first by selling wholesale products on Amazon, then developing private labeled goods to distinguish his company with quality products and customer service. Along […]
The post Escaping Employment – Small Business Interview with Greg Mercer of JungleScout appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us for this week’s edition of the Small Business Show! Dave and Shannon spend some time going over their interview with Tim Cote of Commonwealth Foreign Exchange from the last episode and then quickly jump into some of their core beliefs about how to succeed with your Small Business: […]
The post Small Business Rock Stars, Wish Lists and Making Your Own Reality – SBS 78 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How many business ideas have come from a group of people sitting around over a few beers? Must be thousands, maybe millions, right? But when you look beyond the idea stage and see how many of those folks actually executed on one of those ideas, the numbers drop exponentially. This […]
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Welcome to episode 76 of the Small Business Show! This week, Dave is back from Europe and shares some time saving strategies that are good for travel as well as in your daily business. We then get an update from Shannon about his social media business experiment (spoiler alert: it’s […]
The post Community Banks, Social Media Small Business and Finding Suppliers – SBS 76 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
On this week’s episode of the Small Business Show, one of our hosts is starting a new business. But, there’s a twist! They have vowed to do things completely different than they have in the past by focusing solely on social media for promotion and to sell their products only […]
The post Starting a new Small Business using Social Media – SBS 75 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s time for a Rant! Specifically, Small Business Show co-host Shannon Jean has had it with a new bank that does a poor job of managing customer expectations. After Dave calms Shannon down, we dig deeper into ways to manage your customers expectations so you can be a hero to your clients […]
The post Managing Customer Expectations for your Small Business – SBS 74 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
How often are you getting patted on the back as a Small Business owner? Not enough, we know. On episode 73 of the Small Business Show, Dave and Shannon discuss developing a “Success List” that you can refer to when things get tough (because they always do), to remind yourself […]
The post Remind Yourself of your Successes – Small Business Show 73 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What’s your small business story? Do you promote your geographic location as a strength? Do you promote your authenticity? How do you find the influencers to help you grow your Instagram presence? Join us for episode 72 of the Small Business Show to find the answers to these questions and more! John […]
The post Authenticity and Small Business Success with John Moran from Vaya Island – SBS 72 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What technology products and services does your Small Business need to succeed? Computers, phones, software and more – essential tools for starting and running your business. Join Dave and Shannon on episode 71 of the Small Business Show to learn more! For the first time, both of your hosts are […]
The post Small Business Technology – Hardware and Software For your Small Business – SBS 71 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Welcome to Episode 70 of the Small Business Show! This week we do a quick follow up on Facebook advertising with comments from Dave about ads for the Gig Gab podcast and their interview with Jan Hammer. You’ll hear about some inexpensive ways to get started with Facebook ads and […]
The post The Impact of Change on You and Your Small Business – SBS 70 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Join us this week for episode 69 of the Small Business Show! Dave and Shannon talk about Dave’s new business venture and then they jump right into part 2 of their series of tips about managing the tricky relationship that your business has with the IRS. Things like the importance […]
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This week on the Small Business Show, we start off by revisiting the concept of not setting financial goals for your business, but rather, developing systems that you can continually achieve success with and adjust for mistakes over time. Dave and Shannon have been using this concept for years, but it […]
The post The IRS Show – How you and your business should interact with the IRS – SBS 68 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Do you compartmentalize your business? How do you keep things in perspective when solving problems? We discuss the importance of AMF (always moving forward!) when tackling problems with your small business as well as setting up triggers to help keep you accountable. We then move into a discussion of the new […]
The post Salaried vs Hourly Employees, Facebook ads and more! – SBS 67 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Does everything always go right with your small business? We didn’t think so. Dave and Shannon have had a bad week and no amount of their patented optimistic self-delusion will get them through without spending some time on the Small Business Show sharing their stories and talking through ways to […]
The post Small Business Highs and Lows. Overcoming Adversity and Powering Through Problems – SBS 66 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
What happens to your well thought-out Small Business plans if you become incapacitated? Who steps in to handle the myriad of details that you take care of each day. Dave and Shannon have discussed the more formal ways to setup a succession plan, such as disability insurance and Key Man […]
The post Small Business Planning for the Worst and Scott Adams Book – SBS 65 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever have a crazy idea? Of course you have. Exploring those ideas can be the thing that leads to the next business opportunity. And that next business opportunity might eventually be the thing that puts food on your table. You need to pay attention to those crazy ideas, but you also […]
The post Crazy Ideas vs. Managing Your Time and Naysayers – SBS 64 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Any growth for your small business is good and the faster the better, right? Bryan O’Connell, co-founder of Meras Engineering would disagree! Bryan joins us today on the Small Business Show to talk about managing growth, choosing business partners, finding an advisory group that holds you accountable and more. We also […]
The post Managing the Growth of your Business with Bryan O’Connell of Meras Engineering – SBS 63 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Kelan Raph has built a career helping people get their products from point A to point B. With his current venture, Grand Canal Solutions, he and his team have developed Optimize, a service that automatically identifies enhancements and optimizations to your product shipments, warehousing and more. Kelan talks to Shannon […]
The post Optimizing your Small Business & Your Time: Kelan Raph of Grand Canal Solutions – SBS 62 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever thought about selling your business? We thought so! Bob Grewal of Seapoint Business Advisors sells businesses for a living, and he deals with all kinds of issues you haven’t even considered yet. Recasting financials, dealing with your employees, reducing the perception of risk and distributing revenue are all things you’ll […]
The post When and How to Sell Your Small Business – Seapoint Business Advisors – SBS 61 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
In 1995 it was predicted that the Internet would kill “the middleman.” Here we are a couple decades later and not only are middlemen still in business, they’re the norm. In fact, as Dave and Shannon discover, everyone is a middleman, even if only for themslves, and that’s OK. Add in […]
The post Small Business Middleman – thriving in the internet age? – SBS 60 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Shannon and Dave put on their kevlar vests – and tinfoil hats – and tackle the topic of a rising minimum wage as it relates to small business. Do you hire entry level employees or summer workers? Who will benefit from this? Who will get special exemptions with the government? How […]
The post Would a $15 Per Hour Minimum Wage Impact Your Small Business? – SBS 59 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Long-time technology journalist Jason Snell spent 17 years writing, editing and managing teams at Macworld magazine before leaving that behind to start his own small business publishing company, SixColors.com. Along the way, Jason also created and managed various Podcasts like The Incomparable, TV Talk Machine, and Upgrade. Jason joins Shannon and Dave to talk […]
The post Jason Snell from Six Colors: From Magazine Editor to Small Business Publisher– SBS 58 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Shannon and Dave have both run virtual (or semi-virtual) companies for decades and have used all manner of electronic communication tools to keep their various teams in sync. These days they both make use of Slack (among other tools) to organize their lives and make teams feel like teams. Hear […]
The post Using Slack to manage your Small Business Team and More – SBS 57 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever sit on the beach and have a great idea? Paul Goodman and his business partner did, bought 400 bracelets from cart vendors, traveled home and PuraVida bracelets was born! They sold their first batch, ordered more, started and now they sell 50-100 thousand bracelets each week. Paul tells Shannon and […]
The post Paul Goodman & PuraVida Bracelets Execution on an Idea – SBS 56 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Episode 55 means it’s a perfect time to discuss what your two favorite business geeks have learned from watching Sammy Hagar over the years. You might be surprised to hear the revelations that Shannon and Dave have. Then it’s on to reviews. Every business gets reviews, even those that don’t think […]
The post Small Business Customer Reviews – Managing the positive and negative – SBS 55 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Your two favorite business geeks are about to celebrate their one year anniversary of podcasting together and to celebrate … they interview each other. Hear Dave and Shannon ask one another about their starts, their stops, their transitions and more!
The post Dave and Shannon Interview Each Other – Small Business Show 54 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
It’s mailbag day today! Shannon and Dave answer two of your questions this week, the first is about crafting your public persona. No one is better equipped to represent your business than you are, and that means you have to get comfortable putting yourself out there, too. But you don’t […]
The post Small Business and your personal privacy, how to set prices and more – SBS 53 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Today’s small business show takes us through some of the bigger-picture stuff you can do to grow your small business. What would it take to grow your business to be ten times its size? What would you change if you were running your business like you intended to sell it? If […]
The post Grow Your Small Business, Executive Summaries and the Beer Test! – SBS 52 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Shannon and Dave talk about the impact that small business owners feel when competing for employees with new, well-funded startups (aka those that can hire people their cash flow doesn’t afford!). Shannon found a great article about how on-demand businesses have created a new era of entrepreneurship — and how attractive that […]
The post How Small Business Competes for Employees with Well Funded Startups – SBS 51 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Rob Gautereaux started JustLuxe.com in 2004 as a site with product articles and classified ads. Within 2 years he realized there was better value to the JustLuxe readers – and JustLuxe themselves – if they were a true publication business. Since then JustLuxe has grown significantly by creating their own […]
The post Luxury Small Business Success Story: Justluxe.com – SBS 50 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Shannon and Dave dig in today, talking about naming your business (and theirs!) as well as reward credit cards. How do you go about picking a good name for a business and what message does it send to your customers? Your favorite business geeks are also rewards credit card geeks […]
The post Naming Your Business and Credit Card Rewards – Small Business Show 49 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Cash is king. You hear it all the time, but have you ever sat down and thought about what it means for your small business? Your two favorite business geeks have and they share their thoughts about how to manage – and even get – cash the right way. Profits […]
The post The Small Business Cash Flow Show – SBS 48 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
While cash might be king, your employees are queen… and this is one of those cases where the queen needs to win. Shannon and Dave talk about what it takes to not only motivate your employees, but also to keep your team happy. Starting with a discussion about salespeople, the […]
The post Motivating and Pleasing Your Employees – SBS 47 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Bruce Linde is the quintessential service provider, always looking to do whatever he can to support his clients. In fact, he even considers the websites he builds for his clients to serve them after he’s finished; the goal being to have the site “turn interest into a client.” Bruce wryly shares […]
The post Small Business Tips from 5 Happiness Webmaster – SBS 46 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
This week on the Small Business Show, we continue the discussion about small business marketing with Shannon and Dave talking about the value of marketing via social media as well as offline marketing. Strategies for authenticity are the core, including specific discussions about Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, offline marketing and more!
The post Small Business Marketing Stories – Part 2 – Small Business Show 45 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Shannon and Dave share their own thoughts about marketing as it relates to their businesses. In Part 1 of the Small Business Marketing show, advertising is a focus with discussions about pay per click, display ads, podcasts and reviews. What marketing methods have worked for you? Share your story with […]
The post Small Business Marketing – Our Stories. Part 1 – SBS 44 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
Ever had a million-dollar idea? Shannon and Dave discuss what that actually means and the realities behind bringing an idea to fruition. Kickstarter is a big part of that discussion, from both good and bad angles. But first, your two business geeks share a little tax talk about what you should be […]
The post Kickstarter, the Value of Ideas and Taxes – Small Business Show Episode 43 appeared first on The Small Business Show.
With just a few weeks left before the calendar ticks over to 2016, it’s time to start thinking about a few things: what to do for your employees? What do do for your customers? What to do for yourself? Taxes, health insurance, gifts, bonuses and more are the seeds for […]
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Shannon and Dave dig into the mailbag today to answer a trio of questions from folks dealing with departing employees. Various reasons and scenarios led to the departures, and those each play a huge part in the advice and thoughts shared by your two favorite business geeks. On top of […]
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Mick Guinn started Mick’s Macs ten years ago and has learned a lot about being a small business owner during that time. He has always made sure to keep a focus on what his employees actually need, being careful not to project his own desires onto others. He also shares […]
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David Sparks, long time attorney and long-time geek left the practice he had been with for decades to branch out on his own. Using his geek skills to build the foundation for his nascent practice’s infrastructure, David is able to better service his clients and carve out that valuable time […]
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Juan Collao from My Auto Home discusses home automation as a business. His company helps customers dissect and decipher the best way to automate their specific homes, right down to which light switch to use. Juan’s business is new and he’s already a very astute businessperson. Some great insights in this […]
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Shannon and Dave talk through the benefits of having someone unrelated to your business act as a sounding board. Almost like creating your own, mini Board of Directors, it’s valuable to have a trusted confidant or two who can give you honest advice, even if it’s from outside your business, […]
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Marilyn Weinstein, founder and CEO of Vivo, says “When you’re the owner, you don’t have the confidence that somebody else’s money gives you.” One trick is building a small business management team so that you’re the “other person” with the money, and delegating those decisions to someone else. Having a partner […]
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Brian Friss joins us today on the Small Business Show. Brian co-founded DIGISTOR back in 2001 and one of the first things he did was to throw away the business plan he had. Instead he followed and guided his business through an evolution reflective of his marketplace, even changing his […]
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Kyle Baccus, founder of KC Tool, America’s number one German tool distributor joins Shannon and Dave on the podcast today to talk about how he started his business. He talks through a number of things he’s learned, including how it pays off to be thoughtful before you start, considering how […]
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A good chunk of Shannon’s business revolves around selling in various marketplaces like eBay and Amazon. As such, he’s learned a few tricks over the years that can help anyone selling in these marketplaces, large and small. Learn why it might be good to diversify your public brand in each […]
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Doug Sassaman of RepriceIt.com joins Shannon and Dave today to talk about how solving his own problem of repricing the items he was selling on Amazon led to quitting his day job and solving the same problem for others. Doug talks a lot about maintaining the work/life balance and ensuring […]
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Shannon and Dave intentionally run with no agenda today and the result is them discussing the intangible benefits of running a small business. Some of the best benefits don’t appear on your profit and loss statement, at least not in an obvious way. Opportunities like travel, attending special events, writing […]
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What small business shopping cart is right for you? What type of business insurance do you need? Learn this and more on the Small Business Show today. Plus Shannon Jean & Dave Hamilton, your two small business advisors & hosts, talk about their most productive times of the day. Stuff […]
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Tim Cox from ZingPR joins Shannon and Dave today to talk about what it’s like to tell other people’s stories while still making sure to tell his own. That, plus what it’s like taking over a business from one’s spouse! All of this and more in today’s Small Business Show!
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Every business will encounter “disaster” scenarios. The real question is about how you, the business owner, handles them? Shannon and Dave have been through them and talk through some of their favorites, using war stories as a basis for sharing the lessons they’ve learned. Communication is the key to solving […]
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Listener Stephan asks which accounting package is right. Shannon and Dave talk about why double-entry accounting isn’t scary (and explain what it is!), and discuss Account Edge, QuickBooks, Freshbooks and more for you.
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Formal agreements are helpful in that they allow you to document your ideas, goals and parameters at a moment in time. What gets interesting is when one of the parties either interprets it differently from the others or wants to change it entirely. This can be a good time for […]
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Shannon and Dave let loose on their favorite pricing secrets, and then let loose on customers who don’t want to follow them (except they really do!). You might agree or disagree with what your two favorite business geeks have to say, but you’ll definitely want to listen!
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Business banker Paul Knowlton joins Shannon and Dave today to talk business banking, including how relationship transparency is important… as well as the Beer Test. Learn why it’s important to create a paper trail for your business early on, and learn how to be realistic when heading in to talk […]
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Delegation is probably the most important thing you need to do in order to grow your business. Problem is, it doesn’t come naturally to most anyone who has what it takes to start a business. With that in mind, Shannon and Dave talk through their experiences (successes … and failures!) with […]
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Mike DeGoey originally bought Mendocino Glove through business broker, BizBen.com. Since then, though, he’s really made the business his own, and now is going through a rebranding process to call it Workman Glove and Safety, better reflecting what his business does now. We learned some great things from Mike, including […]
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Digging into the mailbag this week, Shannon and Dave answer YOUR questions. How best do you handle cold-calling? Is that a necessary part of growing one’s business? And then it’s on to what to look out for when heading into a joint venture. Do you need an attorney and what […]
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Jon Barretto at FullyLaced.com joins Shannon and Dave today to tell all his stories and share his secrets to success. Learn just how far the skill of building relationships can take you… and learn when to stash your cash! You can learn more about Jon and follow FullyLaced on Twitter, Instagram and […]
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Three very difficult — and unnatural — tasks for any small business owner involve the hiring, firing and wage-setting for employees. Shannon and Dave talk through their experiences they’ve encountered going through all of this. Hear about the pitfalls and, yes, even some success stories they’ve had, too. Even more […]
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RJ Waldron from Northwind Outfitters joins Shannon and Dave tonight to talk about his fishing and hunting guide business. As always, the conversation turns to the little things that matter, and RJ delivers with some great stories about customer service trumping all. Well, that and Quicken. Listen for details and […]
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Today Shannon and Dave dig into the mailbag and answer a listener’s email about getting started. What’s the quickest way to accept money from clients in the name of your new company? How should one go about getting incorporated? What structures are there? Consider this a survey course in all […]
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Having a partner can be key to the success of you and your business. Someone to keep you accountable and someone else to do the work that you can’t makes great sense. But there’s a flipside, too, and not all of it is pretty. Hear from two serial partners about […]
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In perhaps their most revealing episode thus far, Shannon and Dave tell their stories about fear; how it’s motivated them, paralyzed them and eventually gotten them further along the path of life. Your two hosts learned something from each other in this show, and you get to hear all about it. Plus […]
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Shannon and Dave are joined today by John Gautereaux, email list expert extraordinaire, to talk promoting your business the right way (and making sure you don’t do it the wrong way!). Listen to these three chat about all things lists and beyond… plus a quick sneak peek at next week’s topic!
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Episode lucky number 13 starts out with Shannon and Dave talking about how easy it is to let the fear of the known paralyze you and your business, and what to do about it. Dave shares an anecdote about Comscore (spoiler, he hates it) and why it was valuable to spend […]
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Shannon and Dave come together today to talk about setting goals, the importance of it as well as how hard they find it to do some of the time! The episode itself is a meta example of why it’s sometimes important to abandon one’s goals and go with the flow. […]
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Long-time Apple-industry veteran, Abbi Vakil, joins Shannon and Dave today to talk small business. Abbi shares some great stories with some fantastic lessons he’s learned from decades of running some very successful businesses. Learn why the good stuff is accidental, the importance of doing math in your head, and even moreso […]
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Shannon and Dave celebrate April 15th by sharing their favorite tax anecdotes (yes, they have favorites!) as well as some of the lessons they’ve learned over the years. You don’t need to check with your accountant before you listen, but you almost certainly will want to do so after.
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Today Dave and Shannon talk through the benefits and techniques of telling your story all the time. Customers (existing and future) want to know who you are, what you do and what makes both you and your business interesting. Don’t be afraid to share, and always share with comfortable confidence.
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Shannon and Dave hit the ground running and don’t stop. They both tell some great stories with some even better anecdotes. Listen to hear how you can learn the true purpose of your business from your customers that will help you find your niche. We also talk about how important it is […]
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Internships can be a great thing for your business on many levels, and are great for your interns, too. Shannon’s not only a user of internships at his business, but is a product of an internship himself. Listen to him and Dave talk through the benefits and how to get […]
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Shannon and Dave start today with a quick lesson for credit card-taking merchants on dealing with — and avoiding — fraud. Then it’s on to detachment, this time in a good way: what it takes to detach from the process and let your employees own the path to their results. Send […]
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Today Dave and Shannon talk through the benefits of using credit cards, both as a consumer and a merchant. GREAT stuff to digest and comment upon here. Stuff mentioned: SPG AmEx Card Flyertalk Credit Cards AmEx Plum Card AmEx’s 4 card limit Discount Rate Paypal Merchant Account
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Shannon and Dave dive deep today, first talking about their logo and then chatting through a few life experiences about making sure you notice when your business is changing. Good stuff here, folks! Stuff mentioned: Fiverr 99 Designs Elance MLB Advanced Media (streaming spinoff) Asana came from Facebook
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Shannon and Dave dig in today and nail down a name for the show. Then they talk about compartmentalization, which spins off into several other, fun topics.
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