Amplify Your Business

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we sit down with Ryan Brown, former Sales Manager and Partner at Integrity Waste Solutions, to explore how one company is raising the bar in an industry often overlooked. With a commitment to upfront pricing and ethical service, Integrity Waste Solutions proves that doing the right thing isn’t just good for customers—it’s good for business. Ryan also reflects on stepping away from the company and shares what values will guide his next venture.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we talk with Ryan Malloy, Managing Director at Liquid Software Corporation, about how entrepreneurs can modernize their operations without abandoning the systems they rely on. Ryan explains how Liquid’s EDGE-QL platform brings flexibility and functionality to legacy software, helping businesses reduce errors, boost productivity, and uncover hidden revenue. It’s a must-listen for anyone juggling multiple ventures or looking to scale without a total tech overhaul.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Julieta Miranda, CEO of Kid-Drop, shares her extraordinary journey from refugee to fearless founder. Faced with personal and professional setbacks, Julieta built Kid-Drop to solve a problem most busy parents know all too well—safely getting kids where they need to go. With in-vehicle cameras, uniformed drivers, and a focus on transparency, Kid-Drop is more than a ride—it's a lifeline for families juggling modern life. Tune in for a story of resilience, reinvention, and redefining what it means to serve your community.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we sit down with Jason Byrne, founder and CEO of Icon-IQ, to explore how Alberta companies are solving one of their toughest challenges: finding senior tech talent. Jason shares how Icon-IQ connects local businesses with vetted developers, engineers, and product managers from Latin America—bringing global expertise to Canada's doorstep. From pandemic pivots to a purpose-driven rebrand, this conversation is packed with insights for any business leader rethinking their hiring strategy.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Jonathan Fishbeck, the founder and CEO of EstateSpace. At a high level, EstateSpace is solving the problem of difficult estate management by simplifying it. In particular, EstateSpace deals with the non-financial asset management side of estate management, both from an operational perspective, as well as a portfolio perspective, by helping their clients to improve their economic outcomes. To learn more, visit https://estatespace.com/. 

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, two women are working to make every day brighter for all people. We’re joined by Danielle Bragge and Leanne Brownoff, co-founders of VR Pathways. The idea behind VR Pathways is leveraging Virtual Reality to change the brain and give people the relief they need to take them out of stressful situations and get them back to a place of fully functioning cognitive behaviour and cognitive thinking. VR Pathways offers personal, on-demand mental health support for cognitive behavioural therapy and phobia therapy through two distinct apps within the world of virtual reality. Their mission is to help reduce negative thoughts and feelings through creating new, positive pathways within the brain that deliver long-term results. To learn more, visit https://www.vrpathways.com/. 

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Lance sits down with Seth Temko—tech entrepreneur, seasoned strategist, and founder of Full On Strategy. With decades of experience navigating the highs and lows of the startup world, Seth brings a perspective forged in the fires of the dot-com era and sharpened by today’s digital demands. Seth doesn’t sugarcoat it: launching a business is both exhilarating and exhausting. But in his words, it’s also one of the most liberating decisions you can make. He shares the hard-won wisdom that comes from building under pressure—offering three transformative tips every entrepreneur should hear. His advice? Be patient, stay in your lane of passion, and don’t be afraid to delegate the energy-draining stuff. We also dive into the unique go-to-market playbook that powers Full On Strategy, where community and collaboration take center stage. Seth explains how he's building not just a client base, but a movement—connecting tech leaders, restaurateurs, and startup founders in a shared mission to scale smarter. 🎧 Tune in to hear why building a business might just be the best kind of hard—and how you can do it with intention, resilience, and strategy. 👉 Learn more about Full On Strategy at fullonstrategy.com

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson speaks with Joshua Monge, a fractional COO and expert in business strategy and operations. They discuss the challenges faced by service-based businesses, the importance of delegation, common operational mistakes, and the value of process mapping. Joshua shares actionable insights on how entrepreneurs can build resilient businesses and avoid the pitfalls of growth, emphasizing the need for clear processes and effective delegation to enhance operational efficiency. In this conversation, Joshua Monge discusses the complexities of business processes and the importance of documentation in optimizing operations. He emphasizes the need for businesses to map out their processes, understand the costs involved, and create a culture that embraces adherence to these processes. Monge also highlights the challenges that arise as businesses grow, particularly the unmanaged complexities that can lead to operational inefficiencies. He advocates for the use of AI to automate repetitive tasks, allowing CEOs to focus on strategic growth rather than getting bogged down in day-to-day operations.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we're joined by Erika Anderson from the picturesque landscapes of Spain. Erika shares her profound insights on entrepreneurship, the critical importance of vision, and the intricate journey of transitioning from full-time leadership to a semi-retired role. This conversation unveils the essence of entrepreneurial resilience, strategic decision-making, and personal growth. Erika Anderson is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founding partner of Proteus International, a company specializing in leadership development, executive coaching, and organizational transformation. With a career spanning over three decades, Erika has established herself as an authority on helping individuals and organizations clarify and move toward their aspired futures. She has authored a number of books focused on leadership and change management and currently splits her time between New York and Spain.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Amy Zuk Olsen, the owner of Safety Buzz Campus, who’s tackling the problem of safety awareness and culture in both individual and corporate settings. Safety Buzz educates businesses about areas requiring safety measures, mentors employees to create a safety-oriented culture, and emphasizes the importance of safety in building a positive workplace atmosphere. Additionally, it provides specific services, such as truck driver training and air chiller division services, to address safety challenges in those domains. With 20 years in business, Amy stresses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the value of a strong team, and cautious growth planning in today’s episode. In a letter to her younger self, Amy would advise her younger self to: "Get ready for the ride. It's going to be really tough.” There will be days when you just want to stay in bed - you can't. Amy’s got plenty of wisdom for other entrepreneurs and amazing offerings for businesses looking to elevate their safety. 

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Christa Jones, the founder of Rose City Professional Organizing. They tackle the overwhelming stress that clutter and disorganization can bring for those facing extreme clutter challenges, where cleaning up feels impossible. This extends to busy individuals juggling work, family, and emotional attachments to possessions, making decluttering a struggle. Additionally, they support those downsizing, packing, and moving, especially seniors and their families dealing with physical limitations and time pressures. Effective time management, adaptability in the face of change, a resilient spirit, a client-centric approach, and a strong foundation in financial literacy are a few vital components of long-term entrepreneurial success according to Christa. She also touched on the importance of learning to let go of control and be okay with delegating. In a letter to her younger self, she would advise little Christa to: “Be patient and realistic with yourself. Embrace growth and ambition, but also celebrate your progress and learning. Success isn't a fixed destination, so be kind to yourself and avoid being overly critical.”

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Kerri Davis, the co-founder and CEO of Fortress, a software solution that helps property management companies manage their assets and create efficiency in their operations. With a background in accounting and law, Kerri has leveraged her entrepreneurial spirit to build a successful business in the real estate and technology industries. Join us today as Kerri shares her insights on entrepreneurship and the importance of embracing failure, creating psychological safety, and surrounding yourself with the right people. She emphasizes the need to redefine success and view failures as stepping stones to success. Kerri also discusses the value of psychological safety in a risky entrepreneurial environment and the importance of commitment in team members. She highlights the benefits of diversity in the workplace and the power of different perspectives in driving innovation and success.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Rick Meekins shares his insights on entrepreneurship and the key factors for success. He emphasizes the importance of having systems and processes in place to scale a business while maintaining quality. Rick also highlights the significance of having the right people on board and creating a strong company culture. He advises entrepreneurs to be flexible, resilient, and willing to pivot when necessary. Rick's goal for his business, Aepiphanni, is to focus on teaching and training, allowing him to work on the aspects of the business that he enjoys the most.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we welcome Sophia Fairweather, a trailblazing entrepreneur who started her journey at just five years old. Now at 15, she’s the founder of Key Angels, a company dedicated to helping young entrepreneurs achieve financial stability through real estate. Her innovative model allows young business owners to live in one unit of a fourplex while rental income from the other units covers expenses—offering them the freedom to focus on their ventures without financial stress. Sophia shares her insights on overcoming age-related business challenges, the power of networking, and why teaching others about your product or service is one of the most important entrepreneurial skills. If you’re looking for inspiration, innovation, and real-world strategies from the next generation of business leaders, this is an episode you won’t want to miss!

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson sits down with Dennis Humphrey, owner of Eden Business Concepts, LLC. They explore the challenges family-owned and closely held businesses face when dealing with workforce-related crises and employee conflicts that hinder productivity and growth. Dennis shares his expertise in helping leaders gain clarity, improve decision-making, and create a positive workplace culture. Throughout the conversation, Dennis discusses the impact of self-awareness in leadership, the role of core motivations in shaping decisions, and strategies to reduce disruptive behaviors in management. He also reflects on his definition of success—seeing leaders thrive while ensuring the well-being of their teams.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews Theresa Caragol, founder and CEO of Achieve Unite, Inc. They discuss the importance of strategic partnerships in business growth, the role of trust in building successful collaborations, and the emerging trends in the partnership landscape. Theresa shares her journey from corporate success to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the need for a deliberate partnering strategy and the integration of AI in enhancing partnership effectiveness. The conversation also touches on the significance of diversity and inclusion in the workplace and the empowerment of women in business.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews Lillia Sanders, a fractional CFO and founder of Skillia Business Solutions LLC. Lillia shares her inspiring journey from overcoming homelessness to becoming a sought-after financial strategist. She discusses the importance of financial clarity for entrepreneurs, the differences between bookkeepers, accountants, and CFOs, and the key metrics that drive business growth. Lillia emphasizes the need for meticulous financial categorization and offers insights on common financial mistakes to avoid, ultimately guiding entrepreneurs towards achieving their business goals with confidence.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson speaks with business coach Scott King about the innovative barter exchange model being introduced in Edmonton through Exmerce. Scott explains the concept of modern barter, its advantages for businesses, and how it can help entrepreneurs leverage unused capacity. The conversation also covers the importance of networking, upcoming events, and the significance of founding members in building a successful community.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we interview Tammy Barlette, a former Air Force Pilot for 20 years and now a successful entrepreneur. She is the co-founder of Athena's Voice, a speaker referral business that aims to empower and inspire women in the military aviation community. Tammy is also the founder of Cross Check, a mental performance coaching business for aviators. Join us as Tammy shares her journey as an entrepreneur and the lessons she has learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of not going on the entrepreneurial journey alone as well as the need to anticipate and then overcome challenges. Tammy also highlights the significance of defining success on one's own terms and not conforming to societal expectations. Tammy encourages entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, prepare for obstacles, and seek help when needed. To learn more visit http://www.athenasvoiceusa.com 

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Emma Givera, the owner of Bushnel Construction S. R. L. Bushnel Construction was founded by Emma’s partner, and when she moved to the Dominican Republic from Toronto, the two realized that her outgoing personality, expertise, and connections to other expats could really ramp up their business. From a small development company, Emma and her partner have grown Bushnel into a business that’s poised to take over! 

In this week's episode of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Sophia Fairweather, the founder of Key Angels, and the youngest entrepreneur we’ve had the pleasure of chatting to for our Amplify Your Business podcast. Key Angels aims to support both entrepreneurship and home-ownership in the youth. Key Angels' core model involves living in one unit of a fourplex and having the income from the other three units cover expenses, effectively offering financial stability while allowing pursuit of entrepreneurial goals. This approach enables young entrepreneurs to dedicate themselves fully to their ventures without the added pressure of part-time jobs or immediate financial needs. The concept of "angels" is derived from traditional investment angels, however, it describes individuals who provide qualifying credit scores, ensuring access and stability rather than financial investment. There are many things that Sophia has learned along the way in her seven years of entrepreneurship, however, the one significant aspect that stands out to her is the importance of attending events: both for networking and for improving your communication skills. Particularly improving your ability to educate people about your product or service.  To learn more, visit https://key-angels.com/.   

In episode 266, Lance sits down with James Jackson, the founder and president of Spotz, a company that aims to be the "Airbnb for non-overnight community spaces." With a background in business and a passion for entrepreneurship, James has built a career around solving problems and finding innovative solutions. He brings a wealth of experience and a strong work ethic to his role at Spotz. In this interview, James Jackson, founder and president of Spotz, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of knowing yourself and your weaknesses, being prepared for the difficulties of entrepreneurship, and leaning on your network for support. Spotz is a platform that connects people with unique and rentable community spaces, solving the problems of awareness, accessibility, and tools for hosts. James discusses the strategic approach to building both the supply and demand sides of the market, as well as the importance of efficient funding and strategic outsourcing. He encourages entrepreneurs to have perspective, trust in themselves, and be open-minded to opportunities. To learn more about Spotz, visit the website at https://www.findspotz.com/.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews John Schell, Chair of Social Capital Partners, about the newly introduced Employee Ownership Trusts in Canada. The conversation explores the purpose of Social Capital Partners, the mechanics of employee ownership trusts, the challenges business owners face when considering this option, and the governance structure involved. John emphasizes the importance of communication and planning for business owners looking to transition their companies to employee ownership, highlighting the potential benefits for both owners and employees.

On this episode of Amplify Your Business, we feature Dan Rogers, an innovative entrepreneur with a transformative approach to business. The conversation unpacks the essential principles that entrepreneurs must prioritize to achieve meaningful and sustainable success. Central to the discussion, Dan, CEO and owner of WorkP2P, highlights the necessity of a well-defined, compelling vision as a cornerstone for business growth. Moving beyond traditional frameworks, he introduces the concept of designing businesses as societal systems rather than conventional corporate entities. This paradigm shift has propelled his own company to thrive on inbound interest, eliminating the need for outbound marketing. The secret? Cultivating trust and delivering value without the pressure of a hard sell. Discover more about WorkP2P and their game-changing approach by visiting WorkP2P.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson speaks with Jennifer Garrett, founder and CEO of Elevate Your Hustle and the Move the Ball brand. They discuss essential advice for entrepreneurs, the importance of understanding your audience, and the need for authenticity and vulnerability in business. Jennifer shares her journey into entrepreneurship, the challenges she faced, and how she built her brand while emphasizing the significance of networking and relationship-building. The conversation also touches on common branding mistakes and strategies for achieving business goals.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews David Wolf, founder of AuraVida Studios, discussing the evolution of podcasting and its impact on business success. David shares his journey from music production to podcasting, emphasizing the importance of authentic storytelling and audience engagement. He provides insights into the changing landscape of content creation, the keys to successful podcasting, and why business owners should consider starting their own podcasts. The conversation also touches on the debate between batch production and consistent releases for podcasts. 

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson welcomes Mark McFatridge, the visionary founder and CEO of Quade, an exclusive executive peer group community dedicated to CEOs and business owners. Mark’s journey from a successful career in banking to creating Quade reveals how transformative peer support can be for leaders facing the unique challenges of entrepreneurship.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Eunicia Peret, founder of Excelstra, explains the importance of cohesive wealth strategies for entrepreneurs. With nearly 20 years of experience, she delves into why entrepreneurs should adopt a holistic approach that spans tax strategies, investment portfolios, and legacy planning. Eunicia highlights the importance of asking the right questions, embracing outside expertise, and making financial decisions early to optimize long-term wealth growth.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Rick Meekins shares his insights on entrepreneurship and the key factors for success. He emphasizes the importance of having systems and processes in place to scale a business while maintaining quality. Rick also highlights the significance of having the right people on board and creating a strong company culture. He advises entrepreneurs to be flexible, resilient, and willing to pivot when necessary. Rick's goal for his business, Aepiphanni, is to focus on teaching and training, allowing him to work on the aspects of the business that he enjoys the most.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Jeff Sekinger shares his inspiring journey as a serial entrepreneur with multiple successful businesses. Jeff discusses the crucial lessons he learned along the way, including the importance of personal development and transitioning from working in the business to working on it. He also emphasizes the significance of product-market fit, leveraging data for business growth, and adapting to new technologies like AI. Packed with insights on leadership, mindset, and scaling up, this episode offers actionable advice for entrepreneurs at any stage of their journey.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson sits down with Lonnie Sciambi, also known as the "Entrepreneur’s Yoda." Lonnie brings over 30 years of entrepreneurial experience to the table, having successfully started, sold, and advised countless businesses. He shares invaluable insights into cash flow management, the importance of culture in business, and how identifying the right target market can make or break a venture. Whether you're navigating a startup or a seasoned entrepreneur, Lonnie's practical advice will help you on your journey.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews Brent Britton, a legal expert and entrepreneur, about his journey and insights into entrepreneurship. Brent reflects on his experience working with startups, emphasizing the importance of market validation and learning from failure. He also discusses the role of AI in the future of business, warning of the ethical implications and the need for a balanced approach to its adoption. This episode is packed with valuable lessons on how to navigate both legal challenges and technological shifts in today’s fast-evolving business landscape.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson interviews Doug McCullough, partner at Crady Jewett, McCullough & Huron LLP. Doug shares valuable insights on entrepreneurship, from overcoming the hesitation to take the plunge, to navigating legal pitfalls and startup team dynamics. He also discusses the complexities of cross-border expansion, especially for Canadian businesses eyeing Texas, and emphasizes the importance of legal counsel when entering new markets. Tune in to learn how to prepare for an exit strategy and embrace sales with personality.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, host Lance Johnson welcomes Imran Syed, the founder of Hatchproof, to discuss his insights on tackling one of the most pressing issues businesses face today—employee retention. Imran shares how his personal experiences, from growing up in the Middle East to becoming a tech entrepreneur in Silicon Valley, shaped his approach to leadership. The episode focuses on how Hatchproof integrates AI and behavioural science to revolutionise talent management and retention. Imran Syed’s fascinating entrepreneurial journey—from the Persian Gulf War to the bustling tech world of Silicon Valley—frames his innovative approach to solving talent retention challenges. In this episode, he explains how Hatchproof is using AI and behavioural science to align employees and managers for better retention and workplace happiness. The conversation also covers the broader future of work, how businesses should embrace AI as a tool to optimize human potential, and the power of courage, discipline, and adaptability in entrepreneurship.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Lance Johnson welcomes Coach Dan Gordon, an expert in transforming entrepreneurs' approaches to sales. Dan brings over two decades of experience in helping entrepreneurs break free from self-imposed limitations and achieve their full potential.  Lance and Coach Dan discuss the concept of "no douchebag selling," the importance of personal development, and how to build trust with potential clients. Dan also shares his unique sales strategies and tools that help entrepreneurs stay at the top of their game. Topics Covered: The philosophy behind "no douchebag selling" The importance of focusing on the client rather than the product The role of storytelling in sales The significance of personal development for entrepreneurs Techniques to manage stress and improve performance You can connect with Coach Dan Gordon on his website at Dan Gordon Enterprise, on LinkedIn as Coach Dan Gordon, and check out his podcast, For Badass Entrepreneurs Only.

In the latest episode of Amplify Your Business, Lance welcomes Yoni Kominsky, a luminary in the field of entrepreneurship with a vast array of experiences as the co-founder and CEO of Ekeala and Multiply Mii. Yoni's journey embodies the very essence of entrepreneurship, from taking the plunge into the business world to fostering growth through strategic focus and understanding the necessity of effective team management. Upon listening to this illuminating podcast, listeners will gather Yoni’s profound insights into starting an entrepreneurial voyage, the critical nature of measuring impact for business success, and the importance of honing focus to achieve set objectives. Amidst addressing the intricate balance of personal and professional life, Yoni also discusses how to navigate the complex nature of leading multiple business ventures simultaneously and the underlying strategies that bolster his success. To learn more about Multiply Mii, visit https://www.multiplymii.com/

Welcome to yet another engaging episode of Amplify Your Business. Today, we're privileged to have Corinne Mason, Partner at Summit Leadership Partners, who is committed to shaping leaders in mid-market businesses. Despite our usual focus on smaller ventures, this episode delivers invaluable leadership development insights that can benefit entrepreneurs of all scales. With a wealth of entrepreneurial experience spanning over a decade, Corinne emphasises the growth of leadership style, comprehending marketing and communications, fostering creativity, and maintaining focus on organisational expansion. In this enlightening conversation, she provides insights on the hurdles mid-market enterprises face, particularly those backed by private equity, and the immense pressures they cope with to achieve exceptional year-over-year growth. Our discussion focuses on building resilient leadership structures, where Corinne underscores their firm's focus on personal development, team efficacy, and considerations surrounding strategic human capital. The primary goal: to help leaders scale up and align with the quick-paced growth of their organisations. Besides demystifying what leadership entails in fast-growing, high-stakes business environments, Corinne offers timeless advice pertinent to all leaders, irrespective of the size or industry of their ventures. Dive into this absorbing conversation and discover the secrets of exceptional leadership that can catapult your enterprise towards exponential growth! Leadership Styles of Prominent Business Figures & Insights on Organisational Growth Delve into this exhilarating episode where we explore successful leadership secrets in diverse sectors. From emphasising emotional intelligence and discipline as leadership pillars, to highlighting common leadership pitfalls like failing to delegate or maintaining a singular vision. Furthermore, we elucidate on change in leadership styles as organisations grow, necessitating leaders to put faith and support in their executives. This episode also enlightens listeners on the pivotal role of systems and infrastructures in scaling a business, offering a unique perspective into the leadership styles of famous business personalities such as Elon Musk. From HR Specialist to Entrepreneur: Corinne Mason's Journey to Promote Equity in Leadership In this enlightening podcast episode, we are joined by Corinne Mason, PhD. Despite facing personal obstacles, Corinne decided to co-found her own venture? She aims to influence positive change and champion more equity, particularly for women in leadership roles. Reflecting on her journey, Corinne emphasizes the role of entrepreneurship as an agent for change and offers candid advice on effective team management and communication. If you wish to connect with Corinne, you can find her on the Summit Leadership Partners' website or LinkedIn. Get ready for a treasure trove of knowledge and inspiration from Corinne’s experiences and wisdom in leadership and entrepreneurship as you tune into this exceptional episode.

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we sit down with Dan Rogers, an entrepreneur who brings an entirely fresh perspective to the table. The conversation dives deep into the foundational principles every entrepreneur must consider to succeed truly.   In the heart of the discussion, Rogers, the CEO and owner of WorkP2P, emphasizes the importance of a clear and articulate vision, which he believes is crucial for a business's growth. Transitioning to the practicalities, the episode sheds light on the distinction between designing a company as a societal system rather than the traditional corporate model. Dan elaborates on the success of his own company, which stopped outbound marketing and now thrives on inbound interest thanks to a focus on building trust and adding value without a hard sell.   To learn more about WorkP2P, visit https://workp2p.com/   00:00 Intro 00:00 Three things every entrepreneur should know.  06:27 Why the traditional corporate model is flawed 09:42 WorkP2P and their mission to redeem work 12:23 How COVID-19 impacted business 14:00 Getting paid to practice beats working to get paid. 16:52 Sharing programs with smaller companies and individuals. 17:32 Stopping outbound sales as everything started coming inbound. 19:56 Trust and reciprocity are key in building relationships with customers. 23:48 Starting a consultancy business to help with sales & marketing 24:14 Dan Rogers explains the value of creating before taking 25:18 The importance of understanding how money moves 31:35 Pushing a business to its limits 32:17 The purpose of a societal system in developing community 36:19 Letting go of customers to align with the company's vision 38:05 Designing systems to incorporate essential elements 39:12 Importance of facing reality and accepting the truth 40:02 Pulling reality in rather than pushing it out 43:49 Outro

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we're joined by Erika Anderson from the picturesque landscapes of Spain. Erika shares her profound insights on entrepreneurship, the critical importance of vision, and the intricate journey of transitioning from full-time leadership to a semi-retired role. This conversation unveils the essence of entrepreneurial resilience, strategic decision-making, and personal growth.   Erika Anderson is a seasoned entrepreneur and the founding partner of Proteus International, a company specializing in leadership development, executive coaching, and organizational transformation. With a career spanning over three decades, Erika has established herself as an authority on helping individuals and organizations clarify and move toward their aspired futures. She has authored a number of books focused on leadership and change management and currently splits her time between New York and Spain.   To learn more about Proteus International, visit https://proteus-international.com/    00:00 Intro 00:57 The importance of having a clear vision for your business 02:23 Being a fair witness and maintaining objectivity as an entrepreneur 03:57 The significance of having enough capital for your business 05:10 Challenges of scaling a business and managing capital 08:57 Gathering data and testing market demand before developing a product 12:26 Summary of the book "Be Bad First.” 13:37 The three practice areas of Proteus 19:27 Erika's transition to semi-retirement and operating Proteus from Spain 22:10 Advice for transitioning and trusting partners 24:44 Importance of clear roles and regular check-ins 29:48 Identifying what you love about your work. 31:53 Erika’s biggest challenge 39:36 How to connect with Erika Anderson 40:01 Find Erika's books on Amazon 40:35 Outro

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, Lance engages with the CEO of Capital Raise, Carl Grant III, diving into Carl's rich entrepreneurial journey and discussing the intricacies of raising capital for businesses. Carl's vast experience presents a treasure trove of insights that are critical for entrepreneurs navigating the complex world of investments and growth.   In this interview, Carl opens up about the evolution of his career from his initial foray as an entrepreneur with his father to his eventual return to entrepreneurship after years in the corporate sphere. The discussion sheds light on the essence of capital investment and the strategies that can make or break the success of a startup. By delineating between the perils of being overly reliant on investment capital and the strength of revenue-focused businesses, Carl provides a nuanced look into the world of venture capital and private equity.   To learn more about Capital Raise, visit https://capitalraise.net.   00:00 Introduction 01:08 Three important things every entrepreneur needs to know 03:00 Background and experience in raising capital 07:43 Overview of Capital Raise and its services 11:57 Early experiences in the video streaming industry 12:32 The market crash in 2000 led to the downfall of a startup 13:18 The impact of 9/11 on a financial services company 14:17 Transitioning from corporate to entrepreneurship 19:26 Working with family in business and the importance of trust 21:41 The significance of revenue and profitability in business success 25:31 Uber's dominance in the market and strategy for success 26:13 TikTok's shift towards driving commerce and monetization 26:51 The importance of generating revenue and being profitable as a startup 27:26 The entrepreneurial strategy of selling to the government 28:28 Overview of the book "How to Live the Abundant Life" 29:27 Focusing on giving and helping others for personal and financial benefit 31:30 Achieving seemingly impossible goals through bite-sized tasks 34:06 Where to find Carl’s book "How to Live the Abundant Life" 35:50 Outro

In episode 268, Lance meets with Seth Temko, the founder of Full On Strategy, a go-to-market consultancy that helps companies achieve hypergrowth. With a background in entrepreneurship and startups, Seth has a wealth of experience in the technology sector. He has lived through the boom and bust of the dot-com era and has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with starting and scaling a business. In this interview, Seth shares his top three tips for entrepreneurs, including that he believes that starting your own business is both the hardest and easiest thing you can do. While it comes with financial strain and stress, it also gives you control over your own destiny. Seth emphasizes the importance of patience, as everything takes longer than expected. He advises entrepreneurs to focus on the things they enjoy and are passionate about, and to outsource or delegate tasks that drain their energy. Seth also discusses his go-to-market strategy for Full On Strategy, which includes building partnerships and creating a community of restaurant tech executives and founders.   To learn more about Full On Strategy, visit: https://fullonstrategy.com/    00:00 - Introduction 01:15 - Three things every entrepreneur should know 07:08 - Go-to-market strategy 09:24 - Helping companies achieve hypergrowth 10:33 - Applying the principles of his consultancy to his own business 12:47 - Defining the consultancy and choosing a niche market 13:19 - Focusing on hospitality technology and generating value quickly 13:54 - Massive potential market size in the restaurant industry. 16:22 - Partnerships with Branded Strategic and other consultants. 17:27 - Focus on selling, defining partnerships, and driving pipeline for growth. 20:58 - Creating a restaurant technology-focused event to connect industry players. 22:04 - Building community and peer support is key for long-term success. 24:07 - Communities can be monetized and lead to strong relationships. 28:32 - Naive thinking can propel young entrepreneurs forward. 29:45 - Lesson from the dot-com bubble: value delivery is key. 33:07 - Importance of good product and customers willing to pay. 36:26 - Outro

In episode 267, Lance sits down with Alex Mic Podar, the co-founder and CEO of Backyard Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping company that focuses solely on bookkeeping services. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Alex has built a successful business that is dedicated to providing high-quality bookkeeping solutions to clients. Alex is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs succeed and is constantly looking for ways to scale her businesses and create job opportunities.   In this interview, Alex Mick Podar shares her insights on entrepreneurship and the importance of financial literacy. She emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to have a good relationship with their finances and to understand the concept of good debt. Alex also advises entrepreneurs to be cautious when doing business with friends or family and to learn how to surround themselves with the right people. She discusses her plans to scale her bookkeeping company and the challenges she anticipates in acquiring other businesses. Alex also addresses the impact of AI on the bookkeeping industry and the importance of staying ahead of the technology. She emphasizes the value of systems and replicable processes in scaling a business and shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur.   To learn more, visit Backyard Bookkeeper at https://backyardbookkeeper.com/    0:00:00 - Intro 0:00:22 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know 0:02:26 - The importance of good debt in business growth 0:04:41 - Scaling a business through acquiring other businesses 0:06:03 - Backyard Bookkeeper's unique focus on bookkeeping services 0:08:32 - Plans to grow the team by acquiring other bookkeeping businesses 0:09:21 - Educating oneself and thinking outside the box for mergers and acquisitions 0:11:42 - Targeting retiring baby boomers to acquire their businesses 0:12:47 - The impact of AI on the bookkeeping industry and managing the risk 0:13:40 - The role of a good bookkeeper beyond data entry in the AI era 0:14:15 - Automation of data entry and the role of AI in accounting 0:15:21 - Working closely with AI developers to improve accounting AI 0:16:26 - AI empowering individuals to take on multiple jobs 0:17:37 - Alex's entrepreneurial journey and origins in Romania 0:20:58 - Importance of systems and hiring the right people 0:23:38 - The necessity of replicable systems for scaling a business 0:25:43 - Information about Amplify Your Business and upcoming symposium  

In episode 266, Lance sits down with James Jackson, the founder and president of Spotz, a company that aims to be the "Airbnb for non-overnight community spaces." With a background in business and a passion for entrepreneurship, James has built a career around solving problems and finding innovative solutions. He brings a wealth of experience and a strong work ethic to his role at Spotz.   In this interview, James Jackson, founder and president of Spotz, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of knowing yourself and your weaknesses, being prepared for the difficulties of entrepreneurship, and leaning on your network for support. Spotz is a platform that connects people with unique and rentable community spaces, solving the problems of awareness, accessibility, and tools for hosts. James discusses the strategic approach to building both the supply and demand sides of the market, as well as the importance of efficient funding and strategic outsourcing. He encourages entrepreneurs to have perspective, trust in themselves, and be open-minded to opportunities.   To learn more about Spotz, visit the website at https://www.findspotz.com/.   0:00:00 - Intro 0:01:11- Three things every entrepreneur needs to understand 0:02:58 - Building a strong network as an entrepreneur 0:06:34 - Overview of Spotz and the problem it solves 0:08:40 - The need for a centralized platform for renting non-overnight spaces 0:09:55 - Challenges in finding and renting different kinds of venues 0:10:23 - Potential benefits for organizations with empty spaces 0:11:50 - Building both sides of the market simultaneously 0:11:58 - Challenges of building a platform without an audience yet 0:13:18 - Strategic approach to building a community of hosts 0:14:21 - Metrics for monetizing spaces and marketing to end users 0:16:02 - Encouraging gatherings and creating community post-pandemic 0:17:22 - Funding challenges and efficient spending 0:21:38 - Learning from difficult situations and outsourcing certain roles 0:26:36 - James Jackson's entrepreneurial journey started at 15 with 47 different jobs. 0:30:48 - Advice on sustaining determination and overcoming challenges. 0:35:41 - Reflecting on personal growth and self-improvement 0:37:47 - Invitation to Entrepreneur symposium for business growth 0:37:47 - Outro

In episode 265, Lance sits down with Ashley McCarney, the founder and president of Involvi, an HR consulting firm. With a background in people operations, Ashley is passionate about improving employment relationships and helping leaders become better people leaders.  In this interview, Ashley shares her insights on what every entrepreneur needs to know, including the importance of valuing your time, being flexible and innovative, and understanding “your why” as an entrepreneur. She also discusses the services offered by Involvi, which include HR support, customized learning and development, and recruitment. Ashley emphasizes the importance of trust in her industry and how Involvi differentiates itself by providing customized solutions and working with clients to navigate the gray areas of compliance and legislation. She also shares her experience of scaling the business and the key factors that contributed to its success, including a strong team, intentional networking, and a focus on building trust with clients. To learn more about Involvi, visit https://involvi.ca/.  0:00:00 - Intro  0:00:47 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know 0:02:36 - Overview of Involvi and the problems it solves 0:03:56 - How Involvi stands out from other HR companies 0:06:35 - Ashley's motivation to start her own business 0:07:47 - Challenges and support during the early stages of the business 0:09:54 - Factors contributing to the success of Involvi 0:11:09 - Importance of networking and building relationships 0:12:49 - Focus on providing value and solutions to clients 0:14:44 - Advice for building a great team 0:16:01 - Importance of transparency and flat hierarchy within the team 0:17:45 - Challenges of maintaining open communication as the business grows 0:20:11 - Imparting vision and values through personal interactions 0:21:19 - Involving the team in creating the company's vision and values 0:22:26 - Intentionally separating the business from personal brand for scalability 0:24:02 - Considering options for future growth as an entrepreneur 0:25:09 - Transitioning from being the practitioner to scaling the business 0:29:37 - Building a business without going into debt 0:30:02 - Self-funding and wise spending to avoid unnecessary costs 0:32:28 - Advice for her younger entrepreneurial self 0:34:41 - Outro

In episode 264 of AYB’s Entrepreneur Podcast, Lance chats with Tino Mantella, the CEO of Turknett Leadership Group. With extensive experience in leadership and having previously served as the CEO of the Technology Association of Georgia, Tino is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and businesses develop effective leadership strategies.    In this interview, Tino shares his insights on effective leadership and offers advice for entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose and conducting thorough research before starting a business. Tino also highlights the need for entrepreneurs to understand their own skill sets and surround themselves with the right team. He stresses the importance of setting big goals and implementing measurable steps to achieve them. Tino also discusses the challenges of managing different generations in the workplace and the impact of remote work on company culture. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable and understand the motivations of their team members.   To learn more about Turknett, visit http://www.turknett.com    00:00 - Intro 05:01 - Discussion on "quiet quitters" and job market trends 08:05 - Leadership skills for different generations and remote work challenges 10:20 - Coaching for personal change and common challenges faced by leaders 13:39 - Understanding oneself and others is key to personal growth. 16:47 - Leading the transition back to the office requires clear communication. 19:58 - The future of work may involve a four-day workweek. 23:59 - Transitioning leadership can be smoother with open communication and mentoring. 26:34 - Understanding what is important to founders when working with them 29:21 - Advice for founders transitioning to the next growth stage 31:14 - Balancing the roles of the founder and CEO 31:58 - Questions founders should ask when hiring a CEO 32:40 - Letting go of control and empowering the CEO 36:02 - Different dynamics between boards and founders 36:28 - Importance of the CEO having an ownership stake in the company 39:44 - Importance of founders planning for the future of their company 40:15 - Owning a company until old age can be beneficial 40:55 - Advice to younger self: be patient and listen 42:48 - Outro

In Episode 263 of the Amplify Your Business Entrepreneur Podcast, Russ Law, CEO and co-founder of Verensics, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the importance of perseverance in starting a business. He discusses the roller-coaster nature of entrepreneurship and managing self-doubt. Russ also explains how Verensics addresses ethical evaluations of potential employees using their online smart questionnaire platform. He highlights the limitations of traditional background checks and the value of informed interviews and touches on challenges in partnerships and addressing team behavior.   To learn more visit https://www.verensics.com/    00:20 Introduction to Russ Law, CEO and co-founder of Verensics 01:12 What are the three things every entrepreneur needs to know when starting out? 04:13 Dealing with self-doubt as an entrepreneur 10:15 What problem does Verensics address? 11:11 The impact of hiring on organizational culture 12:39 How Verensics’ software helps improve the interview process 27:42 What advice would Russ give to his younger self? 28:46 Taking the leap into entrepreneurship is tough 30:05 What helps Russ persevere? 30:31 Pursuing passion makes a big difference in motivation

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we interview Tammy Barlette, a former Air Force Pilot for 20 years and now a successful entrepreneur. She is the co-founder of Athena's Voice, a speaker referral business that aims to empower and inspire women in the military aviation community. Tammy is also the founder of Cross Check, a mental performance coaching business for aviators. Join us as Tammy shares her journey as an entrepreneur and the lessons she has learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of not going on the entrepreneurial journey alone as well as the need to anticipate and then overcome challenges. Tammy also highlights the significance of defining success on one's own terms and not conforming to societal expectations. Tammy encourages entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, prepare for obstacles, and seek help when needed.   To learn more visit http://www.athenasvoiceusa.com    00:00 - Intro. 01:02 - Three important things for entrepreneurs: don't do it alone, don't give up, define success. 02:02 - Define success as making a positive impact and matching personal lifestyle. 03:50 - Introduction to Athena's Voice and its purpose. 06:11 - Introduction to Cross Check and its purpose. 09:46 - Overcoming challenges and applying mental performance principles. 11:28 - Advice for entrepreneurs: expect and tackle challenges, and solve problems. 12:43 - Framework for problem-solving and handling challenges. 16:24 - The importance of developing confidence and pushing out of comfort zones. 18:41 - The loneliness of entrepreneurship and the need for support. 20:16 - The challenge of analysis paralysis and decision-making. 21:13 - The importance of establishing personal core values. 24:15 - Redefining success and transitioning the first business model. 25:39 - The importance of mental performance training. 28:13 - Plans to expand beyond aviation in the future. 29:06 - The challenge of deviating from the niche too quickly. 30:53 - Potential applications of Tammy's course outside of aviation. 36:12 - Sacrifices of successful entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos. 37:06 - Realization of being in control of one's business and life. 38:07 - How to connect with Tammy Barlette for coaching and courses. 38:56 - Release date and motivation for completing a course. 39:39 - The importance of deadlines and motivation in achieving goals. 40:18 - Outro.

For Episode 260 of the Entrepreneur Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Richard Pro, the president and Chief Strategy Advisor at VRINetics LLC. With a background in physics, engineering, and business administration, Dr. Pro brings a unique blend of quantitative analysis and strategic thinking to his work, making this episode uniquely interesting as Dr. Pro shares his insights on entrepreneurship and strategy development. Emphasizing the importance of building a community of entrepreneurs who can offer advice and support, and highlighting the role of data analytics in creating and sustaining a competitive advantage are just a few topics Dr. Pro covers in the episode.  To learn more, reach out to Dr. Richard Pro at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardpro/    00:00 - Intro  01:14 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know  03:39 - An overview of VRINetics and its services  10:31 - Unique focus on data analytics in strategic consulting  14:04 - Importance of measuring and improving strategic execution  15:39 - Misuse of the term "competitive advantage" in strategy discussions  16:18 - The role of analytics in strategy  17:05 - Importance of assessing value, rarity, inimitability, and substitutability  17:51 - Why most strategies fail  18:41 - Applying strategy criteria to personal career development  19:35 - Lack of knowledge of strategy criteria among leaders  20:09 - Importance of tapping into the collective knowledge of other entrepreneurs  22:35 - Being vulnerable and authentic when seeking advice 24:12 - Generosity of entrepreneurs in sharing experiences and insights  26:09 - Importance of regular touch base meetings with fellow entrepreneurs  29:11 - Understanding effective digital marketing strategies  33:35 - The first five years are crucial for a startup's success.  34:37 - Giving first and making connections is effective marketing.

For Episode 259 of Amplify Your Business, we’re joined by Kerri Davis, the co-founder and CEO of Fortress, a software solution that helps property management companies manage their assets and create efficiency in their operations. With a background in accounting and law, Kerri has leveraged her entrepreneurial spirit to build a successful business in the real estate and technology industries. Join us today as Kerri shares her insights on entrepreneurship and the importance of embracing failure, creating psychological safety, and surrounding yourself with the right people. She emphasizes the need to redefine success and view failures as stepping stones to success. Kerri also discusses the value of psychological safety in a risky entrepreneurial environment and the importance of commitment in team members. She highlights the benefits of diversity in the workplace and the power of different perspectives in driving innovation and success. To learn more, visit https://fortresstech.io.        00:00  Intro 01:05  The importance of reframing success as an entrepreneur  02:45  Creating psychological safety for teams in a risky environment  04:37  Surrounding yourself with committed individuals  06:26  Hiring fast and firing fast to foster commitment  08:22  Not burdening overachievers with underachievers  09:47  Challenges in letting go of underperforming team members  11:00  The importance of acknowledging the 50-50 nature of hiring  11:34  Introduction to Fortress software solution for property management companies  12:15  Building Fortress to solve problems in property management  13:24  Importance of incubation and finding a champion for software development  14:29 Advice for finding a champion and creating a partnership 16:13  Importance of finding a company with the same problem  18:19  Whittling down features and agile development  21:15 Kerri Davis' background and unique experiences  23:02 Working in Iraq and transitioning to accounting and sales  25:20 Joining Elmington and overcoming fears of lack of knowledge  25:20 Kerri Davis talks about working in a small office space. 

For Episode 258 of Amplify Your Business, Christa Jones, the founder of Rose City Professional Organizing. They tackle the overwhelming stress that clutter and disorganization can bring for those facing extreme clutter challenges, where cleaning up feels impossible. This extends to busy individuals juggling work, family, and emotional attachments to possessions, making decluttering a struggle. Additionally, they support those downsizing, packing, and moving, especially seniors and their families dealing with physical limitations and time pressures. Effective time management, adaptability in the face of change, a resilient spirit, a client-centric approach, and a strong foundation in financial literacy are a few vital components of long-term entrepreneurial success according to Christa. She also touched on the importance of learning to let go of control and be okay with delegating. In a letter to her younger self, she would advise little Christa to: “Be patient and realistic with yourself. Embrace growth and ambition, but also celebrate your progress and learning. Success isn't a fixed destination, so be kind to yourself and avoid being overly critical.” To learn more, visit https://rosecityprofessionalorganizing.com/.        00:00 - Intro 00:37 - What are three things every entrepreneur should know? 03:41 - What problem is your business solving and who are you serving? 08:46 - What led to you starting Rose City Professional Organizing? 13:18 - What challenges have you faced in your business and how did you overcome them? 16:48 - What were the benefits of being raised by an entrepreneurial father? 19:22 - What growth-related obstacles are you expecting to face? 22:10 - What will be the last hat you wear as you delegate aspects of your business to others?   25:24 - What advice would you give your younger self in a letter?