Behind the Boost

In this third and final installment, Nic Padilla sits down again with Juve Hernandez to explore what entrepreneurship looks like across cultures—and what never changes. What begins as a lighthearted reflection on adapting from coastal Mexico to snowy Utah unfolds into a deeper conversation  about identity, reinvention, and the shared spirit that connects entrepreneurs worldwide.Juve opens up about cultural transition, perspective shifts, and the surprising beauty of learning to love new environments. From there, the conversation turns practical. Nic shares insights gathered from traveling internationally with Boostability, observing that true entrepreneurs, regardless of geography, carry the same curiosity, generosity, and desire to grow. Together, they unpack what it means to educate prospects effectively, why fundamentals matter more than shiny tactics, and how experience, not just tools, creates lasting results in digital marketing.Chapters[Start] From Ocean to Mountains: Adapting to Utah: Juve talks about learning to appreciate new environments after moving from Cabo San Lucas to Utah.06:01 What All Entrepreneurs Have in Common: Nic shares observations from traveling internationally, describing the shared traits of entrepreneurs.09:24 Educated Prospects and SEO Fundamentals: A nuanced discussion on the difference between being informed and being distracted, and why core SEO principles still win.13:20 Traffic vs. Conversions: The hosts explore why traffic alone does not equal revenue and what metrics really matter.16:08 Tools vs. Experience: The Electrician Metaphor: Nic explains the difference between having powerful tools and knowing how to use them effectively, highlighting Boostability’s value beyond software platforms.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityNic Padilla on LinkedInJuve Hernandez on LinkedIn

In part two of this three-part conversation, Nic Padilla and Juve Hernandez go deeper into the turning point that changed everything. Juve shares the emotional reality of starting over in a new country, carrying childhood trauma, and believing he wasn’t smart enough to succeed.What shifted wasn’t circumstance—it was mindset. From taking an online IQ test that challenged his self-doubt to learning internet marketing from scratch, Juve explains how belief unlocked skill, and how skill unlocked opportunity. The conversation moves into resilience, retention, medical tourism, and why positioning yourself as a profit center, not just a service provider, changes the entire game.Chapters[Start] The Turning Point: Juve shares the emotional story behind leaving Mexico and rebuilding in the United States.04:11 The Mindset Shift: How one IQ test changed Juve’s belief about his own intelligence and why that mattered.08:54 Learning How to Learn: Nic and Juve discuss resilience, self-belief, and why quitting isn’t an option.10:32 From Agency to Profit Center: Juve explains his SaaS-style model, medical tourism niche, and why retention drives everything.17:04 Growth in Mexico & AI’s Impact: The opportunity in medical tourism and why AI feels like the next internet revolution.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityNic Padilla on LinkedInJuve Hernandez on LinkedIn

In this opening segment of a three-part conversation, Nic Padilla is joined by Juve Hernandez to talk about his entrepreneurial journey. Juve shares what it was like to grow up in an immigrant culture and how that shaped his mindset for starting a business. The two uncover what it’s like to live between different cultures, and Juve shares his personal experience growing up.Part 1 of this episode explores the adversities that shaped Juve’s entrepreneurial spirit, driving him to start a company. His story is one that shows how important it is to believe in yourself, even if no one else does. That is the first and most important business decision you could ever make.Chapters[Start] Culture and Belonging: Nic and Juve discuss growing up between cultures and navigating two worlds.01:48 Learning English: Juve shares about growing up in Mexico and his journey to learning to speak English.06:38 Life in Mexico: Juve shares his experience growing up in Mexico and how it has shaped his identity in the United States.13:20 Why Boostability?: Nic and Juve have a discussion about the benefits of using Boostability.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityNic Padilla on LinkedInJuve Hernandez on LinkedIn

Nic Padilla sits down with digital marketer Josh Sanderford for a conversation about modern online business. Together, they look at how curiosity and confidence can shape the future of one’s entire career. Josh shares how a childhood love for photography and design led him into the world of marketing. This came with asking for opportunities and not being afraid of people “above” or “below” him, which became a defining trait in his business.Josh then shares about his journey building sustainable digital businesses in an era of constant platform change. From running Google Ads and SEO to creating automated SaaS systems, he explains why simplicity, relationships, and consistency matter in the long run. Nic and Josh highlight the long game of trust—showing up when no one is watching, building human connections, and being known for doing one thing well. This conversation shows what it takes to grow in marketing without losing the human side of the work.Chapters[Start] From Small Town to Big Opportunities: Josh reflects on how his growing up drove him to curiosity, which led him toward marketing.02:46 Discovering Marketing: How a college prep presentation sparked a career in digital advertising.10:25 Building a Life Around Systems: Learning to transition to a life of running digital businesses from home.15:40 SaaS, Automation, and Community Building: The importance of simplifying software and showing up daily to create trust and sustainable growth.22:58 Consistency for the Long Haul: Using commitments, relationships, and focus to build credibility over time.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInJosh Sanderford on LinkedIn

Continuing from part 1, Nic Padilla and Ryan Cook, the founder of Ghostbird, dive deeper into the strategic decisions that create standout agencies. Together, they explore why niching down has become more important than ever, building trust, clarity, and long-term business growth. Ryan shares how the rise of AI is reshaping content and marketing, but also how genuine human writing is becoming more valuable.The conversation also talks about Ryan’s decision to pivot fully into ghostwriting. From hitting new revenue milestones to building an audience-first growth engine on LinkedIn, Ryan outlines what sustainable traction actually looks like when you commit and play the long game. With reflections on patience, conviction, and choosing a “hill worth dying on”, Ryan reminds us that meaningful businesses aren’t built quickly, but intentionally.Chapters[Start] The Importance of Niching Down: Nic and Ryan discuss the struggles in business when you try to do everything, vs agencies that specialize themselves.03:42 Pivoting to Ghostbird: Ryan shares the moment that pushed him to rebrand and fully commit to ghostwriting.07:46 Growth, MRR, and Sustainable Momentum: A look at hitting new revenue milestones and what realistic growth timelines look like.11:33 A Hill You’re Willing to Die On: Ryan reflects on patience, conviction, and why long-term success requires doing what others won’t.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInRyan Cook on LinkedInGhostbird on LinkedIn

In this episode, Nic Padilla sits down with Ryan Cook, founder of Ghostbird, to explore the quieter truths behind entrepreneurship. Ryan shares his journey from teaching marketing at BYU to eventually owning his own agency. Rather than chasing overnight success, Ryan shares his insights on building habits, relationships, and consistency; things that are often overlooked in determining long-term achievements. Ryan also shares his philosophy on modern authority building through writing and LinkedIn. He reframes visibility as a long game rooted in authenticity and generosity by ghostwriting books which create deep trust. He uses this to help executives turn dormant networks into active growth engines. Nic and Ryan talk about the importance of showing up and embracing the awkward early stages of growth. This episode sets the stage for more to come in part two.Chapters[Start] Meeting Ryan Cook: Ryan introduces his background and shares his journey to entrepreneurship.03:07 The Secret to Success: A conversation about habits, relationships, and long-term commitments in entrepreneurship.07:15 Creating Ghostbird: Ryan’s pivot from general marketing services to a focused ghostwriting business.09:51 LinkedIn as a Relationship Engine: Ryan shares advice on using LinkedIn intentionally through all stages of business growth.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInRyan Cook on LinkedInGhostbird on LinkedIn

Host Nic Padilla sits down with Jarrell Hibler, founder of Premier Marketing, for a conversation about business fundamentals and the evolving world of digital marketing. Jarrell shares his journey from earning a degree in kinesiology to building a full-service marketing agency in Charlotte, North Carolina. The discussion highlights how adaptability, curiosity, and a willingness to learn can open doors to unexpected opportunities.From the importance of foundational marketing assets to staying grounded amid technology and SEO changes, the conversation reinforces a simple but powerful message: fundamentals matter. Jarrell’s perspective underscores the value of discipline and resilience; things that truly matter in what makes a business genuinely different. Chapters[Start] Meeting Jarrell Hibler: Nic introduces Jarrell and traces his path from kinesiology into digital marketing.02:42 Building Marketing Foundations: Jarrell discusses website platforms, service offerings, and the importance of branding.08:15 Staying Ahead of Change: How Premier Marketing adapts to evolving technology and search behavior.10:35 Life Lessons from Jarrell: Jarrell reflects on how his upbringing and athletic career shaped his leadership style in business.14:51 Standing Out from the Crowd: Insights on how to get customers and stay ahead of the competition.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityPremier MarketingConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInJarrell Hibler on LinkedInPremier Marketing on LinkedIn

In this final installment of our three-part series, host Nic Padilla wraps up his conversation with Bruce Rowe, founder of Sebo Marketing. This episode traces the origin story of Bruce’s digital marketing career, beginning with a cross-country move, a chance warehouse job, and a broken e-commerce site that launched him into the world of SEO and paid search long before most businesses knew what those terms meant. Through personal stories and early career lessons, Bruce recounts how curiosity, experimentation, and a commitment to solving real problems shaped the foundation of his agency.This episode shares what it takes to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving industry, and offers a grounded and transparent look at why some agencies endure while others disappear. Nic and Bruce discuss the myths surrounding digital marketing expertise, how easy access to information has changed people’s willingness to learn, and why shortcuts, especially in SEO, create more harm than value. Bruce emphasizes the power of principles over hacks, teamwork over isolation, and quality content over AI-driven volume.Chapters[Start] Choosing a Place to Build a Life: Bruce shares how he and his wife used a paper map and a list of priorities to choose Heber City as their new home.03:45 From Warehouse Worker to Accidental Digital Marketer: A broken website, Overture ads, and a massive sales jump lead Bruce to discover digital marketing and eventually launch Sebo Marketing.06:15 Principles Over Tactics: Nic and Bruce discuss honesty, long-term thinking, and the importance of building on a solid foundation, whether in SEO or any other part of business.07:30 Staying Sharp in a Changing Industry: Bruce explains how teaching at BYU, surrounding himself with smart people, and staying curious help him keep pace with evolving SEO trends.10:45 Why People Stick With Bad Habits: A surprising story about a student’s boss highlights how stubbornness, convenience, and lack of visible consequences shape decision-making.12:20 AI, Content, and the Quantity Trap: Bruce weighs in on AI-generated content, Google’s quality signals, and why volume can’t replace usefulness or expertise.14:45 Final Reflections and Gratitude: Nic closes the series by recognizing Bruce’s longevity, integrity, and commitment to doing SEO the right way.Links and ResourcesBoostabilitySebo MarketingConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInBruce Rowe on LinkedInSebo Marketing on LinkedIn

In this second episode of our three-part series, Nic Padilla continues his conversation with Bruce Rowe of Sebo Marketing. Together, they unpack the complexities of marketing attribution. They discuss why it matters, why it’s messy, and why so many businesses still struggle with marketing touchpoints and results. Bruce shares a behind-the-scenes look at how a world reliant on last-click attribution leaves marketers guessing more than strategizing. Through relatable examples from conferences and client journeys, Nic and Bruce spotlight how real-world interactions intersect with digital insights to shape growth.This episode explores the cultural and business environment of Utah, where collaboration often outweighs competition. Bruce highlights the power of authenticity and transparency in an industry that is often criticized for being too open. The conversation underscores what makes long-standing agencies like Sebo Marketing and Boostability resilient: a focus on doing things with integrity.Chapters[Start] Attribution in the Real World: A breakdown of how last-click attribution works and why it is one of marketing’s biggest challenges.03:23 Why Utah Breeds Collaboration: Bruce reflects on Utah’s unique business culture and the mindset that fosters cooperation rather than competition.08:13 The SEO “Voodoo” Myth: Bruce shares an encounter with a deeply skeptical business owner.12:42 Doing the Right Work the Right Way: A conversation about longevity, integrity, and how agencies like Sebo Marketing have stayed relevant by focusing on real impact.Links and ResourcesBoostabilitySebo MarketingConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInBruce Rowe on LinkedInSebo Marketing on LinkedIn

Host Nic Padilla sits down with Bruce Rowe, founder of SEBO Marketing, to explore the evolution of search engines, SEO, and paid advertising over the last two decades. Bruce shares rare insights that illuminate how the industry came to be and how it continues to change at breakneck speed. Nic and Bruce’s conversation gives an engaging, spoiler-free look at how early search engines worked, why Google overtook competitors, and how pay-per-click truly began. Bruce uses his firsthand experience to show just how dramatically digital marketing has transformed.This episode is part one of a two-part series featuring Bruce Rowe. Stay tuned for part two, where the discussion dives deeper into the future of organic search.Chapters[Start] Welcome & Introductions: Nic introduces Bruce and sets up the conversation by exploring Bruce’s background and agency history.01:41 The Early Days of Search Engines: Bruce recounts how Yahoo began as Jerry and David’s directory and how search worked before algorithm-based engines.04:12 Birth of Pay-Per-Click: A deep dive into Bill Gross’s pioneering PPC system, second-price auctions, and how early bidding worked before Google refined the model.08:49 The Story Behind SEBO Marketing: Bruce explains the origin of his agency’s name and reflects on building a business that has lasted more than two decades.11:52 Algorithm Updates: Bruce tells the story of 2013’s Penguin update and why SEO manipulation, not SEO itself, always dies.Links and ResourcesBoostabilitySebo MarketingConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInBruce Rowe on LinkedInSebo Marketing on LinkedIn

Nic and Cameron continue their conversation in this episode, talking about personal identity, leadership, and resilience. Cameron reflects on his experiences navigating diverse social circles and how those years taught him to build intentional relationships and connect with others. Those same skills now shape the way he leads Kinley Consulting.Nic and Cameron dive into the realities of scaling agencies and service-based businesses. They explore how different stages of growth require different hiring philosophies and how a great team member can dramatically alter the trajectory of a business. Through humor, honesty, and shared wisdom, this episode delivers both inspiration and real-world guidance for any agency founder navigating the difficulties of business and life.Chapters[Start] Identity and Connection: Cameron shares how growing up in contrasting school environments taught him to build connections with intention.04:21 Outsourcing vs. Hiring In-House: A practical breakdown of how Cameron guides clients through deciding when to outsource and when to hire internally.06:32 Balancing Business, Travel, and Family: Cameron and Nic discuss routines, structure, and the small daily habits that keep them grounded.12:08 Strategies Every Founder Needs: Cameron gives advice to listeners about how to avoid tax surprises and capture critical savings opportunities.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityKynli Consulting WebsiteConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInCameron Williams on LinkedInKynli Consulting on LinkedIn

Nic Padilla sits down with Cameron Williams, founder of Kynli Consulting, for a look at how he built a financial consulting agency tailored to the fast-moving world of marketing agencies. Their conversation unpacks the story of Cameron’s professional journey and the evolution of his company.Cameron shares the milestones and the pivots that ultimately led him to entrepreneurship. He explains the importance of choosing a niche and the financial challenges marketing agencies often face. He shares how his own business, Kynli Consulting, evolved from simple bookkeeping to a sophisticated CFO-level strategic service. This episode lays the foundation for part two, where they will continue their conversation.Chapters[Start] Guest Introduction: Nic introduces Cameron and Kynli Consulting.01:42 Choosing a Niche: Cameron explains how mentorship guided him into the marketing-agency space, and how he settled on a specific niche.03:02 What to Expect: A breakdown of how Kinli Consulting evaluates new clients and helps them build financial systems.07:00 The Biggest Problems Agencies Face: Cameron shares some of the most common problems he sees in startup agencies today.10:53 How Cameron Got to Where He is Today: Cameron shares how his background and upbringing shaped him into who he is now.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityKynli Consulting WebsiteConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInCameron Williams on LinkedInKynli Consulting on LinkedIn 

In this second installment of host Nic Padilla’s conversation with Tom Shipley, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of the CEO M&A Summit, the focus turns to legacy and leadership. Tom unveils his next big mission: helping entrepreneurs create exit strategies that multiply their enterprise value and transform years of hard work into generational wealth. Drawing from decades of experience in acquisitions and scaling, he breaks down why so many small business sales fail, how to reverse-engineer a successful exit, and the new platform he’s building to unite founders ready to sell with those ready to scale.But this episode goes beyond strategy. Tom opens up about his approach to leadership, such as why he hires slowly, builds teams with high expectations and low pressure, and empowers rising talent to become leaders themselves. He shares stories about his team, including a former NASA engineer turned right-hand woman, and how he cultivates loyalty through vision, integrity, and mentorship.Chapters[Start] The Future of Exits: Tom outlines his vision for a new platform that helps entrepreneurs merge, grow, and sell their businesses together for greater long-term value.04:45 The Ripple Effect: Tom shares why only a small percentage of small business owners successfully exit—and how collaboration can create exponential wealth for more founders.05:30 Building a Dream Team: Tom discusses his leadership philosophy of “high expectations, low pressure,” explaining how it fosters creativity and long-term commitment.09:00 Finding the Right People: A closer look at how Tom attracts extraordinary talent, including Valerie, a former aerospace engineer, and how he nurtures their entrepreneurial potential.10:50 Connecting with Tom: Tom shares how to connect with him directly and details the next CEO M&A Summit for entrepreneurs ready to learn the acquisition playbook.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityTom’s WebsiteTom’s Email: [email protected] with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInTom Shipley on LinkedIn

In this first installment of a two-part conversation, host Nic Padilla sits down with Tom Shipley, entrepreneur, investor, and founder of the CEO M&A Summit, to explore the mindset and mechanics behind building multi-million-dollar businesses through mergers and acquisitions. Tom shares how his early life lessons in resourcefulness and resilience, from his time in the military to scaling his first online business, shaped his unique approach to entrepreneurship.Listeners will gain insight into how acquisitions can accelerate business growth, why “no money” isn’t a roadblock to buying a company, and how to find leverage in today’s fast-changing business environment. Tom also discusses his mission to help entrepreneurs reduce risk, compress time, and expand their impact through structured M&A strategies. The conversation reveals not just the business tactics behind his success but also the human side of leadership: his commitment to family, balance, and the importance of proximity to like-minded visionaries.Chapters[Start] The Power of Presence: Nic introduces Tom and discusses how genuine connection and attentiveness have been a foundation in both Tom’s family life and business relationships.03:40 M&A for Entrepreneurs: Tom breaks down what mergers and acquisitions really mean for small and mid-sized business owners.07:10 From Near Collapse to Breakthrough: Tom recounts his journey through early business challenges, including running out of cash, and how an unlikely acquisition saved his company.15:00 Building the DealCon Community: Tom shares his passion project: a mastermind-style summit where entrepreneurs learn to structure acquisitions, reduce risk, and multiply their business value through systems-based M&A.23:30 Resilience, Resourcefulness, and Family: Tom opens up about his upbringing, his military experience, and the principles of grit and resourcefulness that continue to guide his life.Links and ResourcesBoostabilityTom’s WebsiteTom’s Email: [email protected] with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInTom Shipley on LinkedIn

In the final segment of their conversation, Nic and Lyn share their thoughts and opinions about the importance of overcoming obstacles. Lyn shares many of the personal challenges he has faced in his life, and how they have shaped his work ethic and business into being successful. Nic and Lyn also talk about the importance of family and relationships to help give us the drive to work hard, no matter what challenges we may encounter.Chapters[Start] Company Wins: Lyn shares the difference between a winning team, and a losing team, and talks about his experience with working with both types.The Importance of Family: Lyn shares the importance of being a father and having his family by his side.Overcoming Obstacles in Life: Lyn shares obstacles his family has faced and how they have helped him to grow into a more resilient individual. Pushing Past the Mental Block: Lyn believes that we are the only thing holding ourselves back and encourages us to push past our mental blocks in order to turn our “no” into “yes.”Links and ResourcesBooostabilityLyn's WebsiteConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInLyn Askin on LinkedIn

In this episode, Nic and Lyn continue their conversation from last week, discussing how a near-death experience led to Lyn’s discovery of the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS). Lyn shares how this discovery and implementation changed not only his career, but also his life.This discussion between Nic and Lyn covers topics of teamwork, leadership, trust, hard work, and overall human connection. Lyn highlights the importance of authenticity in both personal and professional settings, in order to create a business model that makes you and your team happy.Chapters[Start] EOS Implementation: Lyn continues his story about how EOS changed his work and his life to become more free and filled with less stress.Six Key Components: Lyn shares Six Key Components to help reframe your mindset about work, helping you have better business and a better life.The Power of Human Connection: Lyn talks about the difference between AI and human connection. He highlights the importance of authenticity with a story about a plumber he interacted with.Right People, Right Seats: Lyn gives the phrase “Right People, Right Seats” as a way to highlight the importance of finding people who care and are good at their job.The Five Dysfunctions of a Team: Insights are shared from Patrick Lencioni’s book The Five Dysfunctions of a Team. Lyn shares the value of trust when working together.Links and ResourcesBooostabilityLyn's WebsiteThe Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni Connect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInLyn Askin on LinkedIn

Host Nic Padilla is joined by Lin Askin in this episode as they discuss the value of authenticity in today’s business world. Lyn shares his upbringing and personal challenges that helped shape his business model of today. Together, Nic and Lyn talk about the importance of gratitude, struggle, and the lessons you can learn from humble beginnings.Chapters[Start]: Introducing Lyn Askin: Nic introduces Lyn Askin, certified EOS implementer.2:09: Small Town Roots: Lyn talks about his childhood, highlighting his small town upbringing which gave him opportunities he otherwise might not have had.5:29: Drive to be Successful: Lyn continues to share about his life, sharing the hard struggles he faced as a kid, which led to his long-lasting work ethic.8:00: Early Entrepreneurship: Lyn talks about his early career in tech and his eventual switch into EOS, which came due to a near-death health situation.Links and ResourcesBooostabilityLyn's WebsiteConnect with:Nic Padilla on LinkedInLyn Askin on LinkedIn

In the final part of this powerful interview, Mike and AJ reveal the deeper “why” behind Agency Coach: to help entrepreneurs design businesses that serve their lives, not consume them. From DJ sets and ska bands to desert hikes and family vacations, they talk openly about what freedom looks like for them, and how they help others achieve it.They also discuss their tactical workshop approach, building community through events, and why Tucson is more than just hot summers and Sonoran dogs. This episode is a reminder that running an agency isn’t just about revenue, it’s about reclaiming your time, your energy, and your purpose.Chapters[Start] Scalability and Lifestyle: How business systems unlock time and energy02:52 Why Sales Support Matters: Using partners to set expectations and scale sustainably03:56 Designing Better Conferences: Hands-on workshops, not just inspiration07:06 Life Beyond the Laptop: Music, nature, tacos—and why freedom is the end goalLinks and ResourcesAgencyCoach.comBoostabilityConnect with:Mike Schmidt on LinkedInAJ Rivera on LinkedInNic Padilla on LinkedIn 

Mike and AJ continue the conversation with a deeper dive into the three foundational pillars of building a successful agency: lead flow, effortless conversions, and delivery you can scale. They explore what makes an irresistible offer, how to delegate fulfillment without sacrificing results, and why most agency owners fail to scale due to self-doubt or broken processes.The duo also share the power of “first-class offers” and their framework for diagnosing what's holding your agency back—plus what to do about it. From coaching systems to fulfillment partnerships, this episode delivers the exact roadmap to grow your agency without burning out.Chapters[Start] Always Hot Leads: How to systemize lead gen so you never run dry00:58 Effortless Conversions: Fixing the awkward sales process and learning to ascend clients02:16 Delivery Without Burnout: How to scale fulfillment without trading more time04:22 Traffic Light Framework: Diagnosing and improving the three core agency leversLinks and ResourcesAgencyCoach.comBoostabilityConnect with:Mike Schmidt on LinkedInAJ Rivera on LinkedInNic Padilla on LinkedIn

In this candid and high-energy episode, host Nic Padilla sits down with Mike Schmidt and AJ Rivera, the dynamic duo behind Agency Coach. From Southern California and Tucson roots to launching a multimillion-dollar agency, Mike and AJ open up about their early days, their partnership, and how they shifted from grinding solo to building a scalable team-based business.They also share how a single job post changed AJ’s trajectory, how they approached recurring revenue, and why so many agency owners fall into the trap of “owning a job, not a business.”Chapters[Start] The Origin Story: How Mike and AJ got their start and became partners04:06 Launching Agency Coach: Why they built it—and the gap it fills for agency owners07:24 The Trap of Doing It All: Why most agency owners stay stuck and how to escape it11:01 Selling Strategy and Scaling Systems: What they teach new agency owners to get unstuckLinks and ResourcesAgencyCoach.comBoostabilityConnect with:Mike Schmidt on LinkedInAJ Rivera on LinkedInNic Padilla on LinkedIn

In Part 2 of our conversation with Alex Schlinsky, we go deeper into the mindset, mission, and meaning behind his work. Alex reflects on the challenges of coaching, why even the best support systems can’t force people to act, and what it really takes to create sustainable transformation for your clients and yourself. Through personal stories, including how a coaching investment he ignored taught him a critical lesson, Alex reveals the emotional and strategic layers behind building a high-impact coaching community.The conversation also turns deeply personal, as Alex opens up about his journey into fatherhood, the health scare that changed his life, and how he’s learning to navigate the tension between being a present dad and a committed entrepreneur. It’s a powerful blend of candor, wit, and practical advice for anyone leading a team, building a business, or trying to be better for their family.Chapters[Start] Forcing the Camel to Drink: Starts with Alex's philosophy on coaching and how he learned the hard way what it’s like to not follow through, even on paid programs.02:06 Loudest in the Room: A Calling to Lead: Covers Alex's upbringing, sibling dynamics, and how confidence pushed him toward coaching and public speaking.07:59 Fatherhood, Health, and Perspective: A powerful reflection on prioritizing family while being honest about work-life imbalance.15:00 Sponsorship with Intention: Why Boostability: The final segment focuses on how Alex selects event sponsors and why Boostability met his bar for trust and value. Links and ResourcesProspecting On Demand: prospectingondemand.com“The Anti-Hustler’s Handbook” by Alex Schlinsky

In Part 1 of this two-part series, we sit down with Alex Schlinsky, founder of Prospecting On Demand, longtime agency leader, and unapologetically bold marketer. From watch-losing antics to poop emoji costumes at legal marketing events, Alex blends high-energy storytelling with practical strategies for standing out in saturated spaces. This episode kicks off with his personal philosophy on authenticity, confidence, and transparency in sales, and why he believes audacity (done right) is one of the most underused marketing tools in the industry.Beyond the humor, Alex unpacks how to spark conversations at conferences, how to use events to scale a niche business, and why creating genuine community matters more now than ever. He also opens up about the origins of his own POD (Prospecting On Demand) event, what it’s like to lead a room of diverse agency owners, and why he believes community, both online and in-person, can be a business owner’s most powerful asset.Chapters[Start] Lost Watches & Icebreakers: Alex opens with a hilarious story, and segues into why being real is more powerful than being polished when building connections.03:26 The Three Pillars of Selling: Alex breaks down the foundation of his sales success: authenticity, confidence, and transparency, even at high-stakes legal marketing events.07:36 Costumes, Gold Shoes, and Audacity: How a poop emoji costume helped land clients, and why standing out in a sea of booths is more science than luck.09:19 Building POD and Finding Belonging: Alex shares the deeply personal roots of his coaching event, POD, and what it means to create spaces that blend leadership, vulnerability, and growth.Links and ResourcesProspecting On Demand: prospectingondemand.com“The Anti-Hustler’s Handbook” by Alex Schlinsky

In this third and final part of our interview with Joshua Johnston, the conversation turns toward legacy. Joshua opens up about the power of relationships in business, how small acts of generosity turn into lifelong connections, and why “relational equity” is the foundation behind his most successful ventures, including his growing conference series.He also shares what’s next for his consulting firm, Hydra, including plans for agency roll-ups and minority equity partnerships in the lead gen space. Alongside business talk, Joshua talks about personal transformation as he prepares to become a first-time father and discusses how that shift is reshaping his priorities.Chapters[Start] Building Conferences that Matter: Joshua breaks down the intentional approach behind his events.04:07 Scaling Through Equity and Roll-Ups: A look into Hydra’s future: equity-based partnerships, agency consolidation, and the math behind a smarter exit strategy.08:20 Becoming a Girl Dad: Joshua shares what preparing for fatherhood looks like while managing a fast-growing business.10:41 The Power of Small Gestures: Why your personal brand is built on how you treat people. Links and ResourcesJoshua Johnston on Instagram: @joshykobyashiJoshua Johnston on LinkedInHydra Consulting – workwithhydra.com

In part 2 of our interview with entrepreneur and agency consultant Joshua Johnston, he shares more of his journey, from selling a multi-million dollar e-commerce agency to building a consulting firm focused on helping others achieve the same success. While Part 1 covered the origin story, this episode digs into what happens next: scaling new ventures, building trust in a saturated market, and learning how to play the long game in business.Joshua opens up about the early challenges of consulting, why lead generation is more about consistency than tactics, and how he’s helped agencies grow from scrappy startups to seven-figure powerhouses. He speaks candidly about his personal philosophies on content creation, delayed gratification, and what it really takes to grow something meaningful over time.Chapters[Start] Bootstrapping to a $4.5M Exit: Joshua reflects on building and selling his first agency in the D2C space.03:16 Case Studies That Matter: He shares real-world examples of how Hydra helped clients scale to multi-six and seven-figure revenues.05:54 The Lead Gen Myth: Why “everything works” in lead generation if you're willing to commit, and how most agency owners sabotage themselves by giving up too early.09:57 Humanizing Your Marketing: Joshua explains why live events, personal brand, and building trust are more powerful today than yet another funnel or VSL.Links and ResourcesJoshua Johnston on Instagram: @joshykobyashiJoshua Johnston on LinkedInAlex Hormozi – Entrepreneur known for “value stacking” and his book, $100M OffersRussell Brunson – Co-founder of ClickFunnels, credited with popularizing modern online sales funnelsClickFunnels – Online sales funnel builder

In this first episode of a three-part series, Joshua Johnston shares the unexpected journey that took him from personal training and bootcamp fitness to building and selling a multimillion-dollar eComm agency. He reflects on his upbringing in metro Detroit, early lessons in small business from his dad, and the turning point when a friend introduced him to “internet money.” What started as a part-time social media side gig turned into a cross-country move and the launch of a life-changing career.Joshua opens up about his fitness background, the transition to operations and marketing, and why most early success is less about strategy and more about grit. This episode lays the foundation for how he went on to scale a business worth millions, and why the mindset behind it matters more than the tactics.Chapters[Start] Nashville, Tacos, and Conference Serendipity: Nic and Joshua recount how they met at a less-than-stellar event and bonded over shared vibes and tacos.04:06 From Detroit to Grand Rapids: Joshua shares his Michigan roots, his dad’s businesses, and how Detroit’s transformation parallels his own.09:00 Scaling Fitness, Learning Business: How working for FitBody Bootcamp introduced Joshua to leadership, operations, and personal development.11:50 From Gym Floors to Internet Money: The story of Joshua’s first $2K/month social media gig and how it became the stepping stone to his agency career.Links and ResourcesJoshua Johnston on Instagram: @joshykobyashiJoshua Johnston on LinkedInHydra Consulting – workwithhydra.com

Host Nic Padilla speaks with Stefanie Kim, founder of ASA Marketing Solutions, about her powerful transition from corporate marketing veteran to systems-focused agency owner. With nearly three decades in the industry, Stefanie shares how losing her voice to spasmodic dysphonia forced her to reinvent her identity, embrace the backend of business operations, and build a scalable agency rooted in strategy, automation, and service.Stefanie unpacks how AI can supercharge marketing, but only when trained correctly, and why most businesses miss the mark by skipping strategy and personalization. She also dives into her virtual employee model for service providers, her belief in visibility-first marketing, and the value of time freedom as a single mom of five.Chapters[Start] From Corporate to Entrepreneur: Stefanie shares how a career shift and personal loss led her to launch her own agency.03:06 Building Smart Systems: She explains how automation and AI free up business owners to focus on what they do best.06:38 Finding Her Voice Again: A vulnerable look at Stefanie’s voice disorder and how it shaped her personal and professional journey.11:28 Lead Gen and Virtual Support: Stefanie outlines her agency’s services—from SEO to AI-powered virtual employees.16:54 Family, Freedom, and Motorcycles: She reflects on balancing motherhood, work, and joy—with road trips and open roads.Links and ResourcesConnect with ⁠Stephanie Kim⁠Check out her agency on ⁠LinkedInASA Marketing Solutions

(00:00:00) Silos, Empathy, and Shared Lunches (00:06:40) AI Overload and the Innovation Gap (00:09:22) SEO Culture and the Old-School Roots (00:15:03) Music, Mission, and Marketing with Purpose In the conclusion of this two-part conversation, host Nic Padilla and Raycheal Proctor dive into the deeper challenges, and opportunities, within the marketing world. Raycheal shares how cross-department collaboration can make or break a strategy, why empathy and curiosity matter in agency work, and how creativity remains a marketer’s best advantage, especially in the age of automation and AI.From account-based marketing to omnichannel campaigns, opens up about her goals for the next five years, bridging her musical roots with her marketing skills, and advocats for equity in the arts and healthcare. If you're a marketer looking to create more human-centered, effective campaigns—or just need inspiration for leading with heart—this episode delivers.[00:00] Silos, Empathy, and Shared LunchesRaycheal shares how breaking down agency walls and creating cross-team dialogue transformed results—and company culture.[06:40] AI Overload and the Innovation GapShe offers a candid take on the current state of AI in marketing and why automation alone isn’t a strategy.[09:22] SEO Culture and the Old-School RootsForum link-building, Reddit threads, and what’s been lost in the evolution of digital marketing communities.[15:03] Music, Mission, and Marketing with PurposeRaycheal discusses her vision for marrying music, advocacy, and marketing into a holistic, purpose-driven future.Connect with ⁠Raycheal Proctor⁠Check out Unlimited Mixed Marketing: ⁠unlimitedmixedmarketing.com

In this first part of a two-part episode, host Nic Padilla sits down with Raycheal Proctor, Marketing Director at Unlimited Mixed Marketing, to talk about her unconventional path into the world of digital marketing. From her roots in music composition to managing one of the final Blockbuster stores, Raycheal's journey into SEO and strategy is anything but traditional. Her early experiences shaped a creative, people-first mindset that continues to guide her work today.Raycheal shares how she stumbled into SEO by way of grassroots reputation management, her deep love of broadcast storytelling, and why marketing should never be siloed. The two also reflect on how they met at BrightonSEO, the power of intentional connections, and why good marketing always starts with understanding people. It's a conversation filled with wit, insight, and a clear reminder: your story is your strategy.[00:00] BrightonSEO & a Well-Timed TrollRaycheal and Nic recall their first meeting—and how a musically targeted joke turned into a lasting connection.[04:13] From Music Major to Marketing MindsetRaycheal reflects on her journey from composing saxophone scores to managing Blockbuster and discovering digital marketing.[07:32] First SEO Gig & the Blockbuster-to-Backlinks PipelineHer pivot into agency life, learning SEO on the fly, and why early grassroots marketing gave her an edge.[11:10] Brighton, Community, and Losing Her PhoneRaycheal shares the story behind her BrightonSEO speaking experience, building community across oceans, and why omnichannel matters.Check out Unlimited Mixed Marketing: ⁠unlimitedmixedmarketing.com

Get a behind-the-scenes look at our podcast and the people who power it. Hear how we highlight the journeys of marketers, entrepreneurs, and agency leaders who share our mission of helping small businesses succeed online.