Beyond Business

The host of Beyond Business (Maddie Silk) breaks down Emotional Intelligence not as a buzzword, but as one of the most overlooked drivers of real business results. She shares how self-awareness, emotional regulation, and reading people in real time show up daily — in client conversations, tough feedback, rejection, and high-pressure moments.Pulling from her own experience in sales, leadership, and motherhood, she explains how constantly navigating emotions — both your own and everyone else’s — builds a level of adaptability and intuition you can’t teach from a textbook.Reframing Emotional Intelligence as a revenue-generating skill, she connects it to stronger client relationships, higher close rates, better retention, and the ability to lead with confidence instead of reaction.The takeaway: what feels like emotional weight is actually building capacity — and when you learn to use it intentionally, it becomes one of your biggest competitive advantages in business.

Hannah and Maddie discuss why many business owners don’t actually need more leads but need a better system for handling and converting the leads they already get, since leads often come in across multiple channels and get missed when life gets busy. They emphasize that today’s consumers expect fast responses, and the first 5–10 minutes after an inquiry is the highest conversion window, using examples like roofing and an HVAC emergency where companies failed to respond. They outline four essentials to improve conversion: (1) a centralized place for all leads (a CRM), (2) an immediate response system such as automated texts/emails that set expectations, (3) a structured multi-touch follow-up sequence with value-add touches and automation, and (4) clear next steps that explain the buying process and build trust through transparency. They note follow-up impacts both revenue and reputation and should be consistently maintained despite staff changes.nine2ohmarketing.comcentralvirginiamarketing.com01:34 Lead Problem Myth04:00 Speed to Lead Matters06:14 HVAC Follow Up Fail07:30 Customer Entry Points08:53 Simple Forms Win10:53 Four Part Lead System12:53 CRM for Every Lead13:31 Automation and Sync Issues15:03 Time Investment Payoff15:31 Automate the Mundane16:45 Speed to Lead Systems18:56 Meet Them Where They Are20:38 Follow Up That Converts24:37 Clear Next Steps27:05 Trust Through Transparency28:18 Reputation and Consistency30:53 Backend Process Checkup

The host of Beyond Business (Hannah Anderson) discusses “working mom whiplash,” the exhausting daily shift between parenting demands and professional expectations, using spring break childcare, early-morning routines, and sudden school nurse calls as examples. Reframing whiplash as a superpower, she connects it to “code switching,” describing how rapid identity and behavior shifts build elite adaptability, emotional intelligence, and the ability to read rooms quickly. She argues these traits make working parents more efficient, relatable, less shaken by rejection, and stronger leaders in sales and business, encouraging listeners to view the strain as stretching capacity rather than breaking it.centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com00:00 Beyond Business Intro00:39 Morning Setup and Context01:10 Motherhood Summit Invite02:39 Working Mom Whiplash03:24 Spring Break Reality Check07:17 The Mental Load Explained09:14 Code Switching Superpower11:03 Why It Helps in Business14:25 Reframe and Encouragement17:08 Wrap Up and Next Week17:18 Marketing Agency Outro

In this episode, I (Maddie) sat down with my three boys to get their take on business… and let’s just say, their answers did not disappoint. From what they think a business is, to what they think I do for a living, to their completely unfiltered commentary on why people are in business—this episode is equal parts hilarious and surprisingly insightful.It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest (and most honest) perspectives can make you think a little differently about what we do every day.A fun, lighthearted episode about business—through the eyes of kids.Enjoy!

Maddie and Hannah discuss shifting sales expectations, noting that traditional pushy tactics and “sales breath” no longer work because buyers are more educated, have more choices, and prioritize trust. They emphasize selling through relationship-building, authenticity, transparency, and honest expectation-setting, especially in long-term services like marketing. They describe modern salespeople as trusted advisors, connectors, and consultants who provide value, ask better questions, listen, and challenge surface-level positioning such as “family owned” by clarifying what it means for customers. They argue honesty builds lasting client relationships and prevents churn and buyer’s remorse, and they stress that entrepreneurs are always in sales. centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com00:00 Beyond Business Intro00:37 Weather Check Banter01:59 Snowed In Stories03:25 Sales Has Changed04:09 Trust Over Tactics06:01 Educated Modern Buyers08:36 Transparency Builds Trust09:47 Consultant Not Seller12:09 Value And Challenge14:52 Honesty For Long Term15:16 Tool Hype Reality Check16:32 Set Honest Expectations17:23 Plan Check In Pivot18:39 Sell What Fits Now19:50 Believe In Your Product21:25 People Buy People23:20 Relationship Intelligence26:04 Authenticity Self Awareness27:17 Sales And Entrepreneurship28:05 Marketing Partner Outro

Hannah and Maddie welcome photographer and business owner Leah O’Connell, creator of the weekly “Firefly Letters,” to discuss building a photography business from scratch and evolving it through major life seasons. Leah shares how an early passion for storytelling led from mall portrait studios and camp media work to mentoring opportunities in Hawaii after repeated rejections from a college program and an unplanned career shift. She explains how entrepreneurship required a growth mindset, willingness to look inexperienced, and raising her hand for opportunities, and how motherhood, moves, pregnancy/postpartum cycles, miscarriages, and financial ebb and flow shaped her definition of success. Leah describes choosing sustainability over constant scaling, managing creative energy, serving clients intentionally, and “tinkering” with small pivots rather than chasing novelty, emphasizing grit and not giving up. Connect with Leah: https://leahoconnell.com/centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com00:00 Beyond Business Intro00:39 Meet Leah O'Connell02:51 Photography Origins04:58 Hawaii Turning Point06:09 Mentorship And First Clients09:05 Paying It Forward10:12 Entrepreneur Mindset13:25 Motherhood And Business Seasons16:10 Scaling With Energy17:26 Redefining Success19:04 Flexibility Versus Stability21:16 Redefining Success Seasons22:43 Hardest Parts Entrepreneurship23:14 Grit And Tinkering27:29 New And Noteworthy28:44 Spring Photos Push30:45 Key Takeaways Recap33:33 Blending Life And Work34:53 Marketing Outro And CTA

Beyond Business hosts Maddie and Hannah interview David Vander Bloomen of the De Pere Chamber about his career pivots from music education to TV photojournalism, marketing, promotional products, law enforcement, and ultimately chamber leadership after injury, burnout, and stress-related health scares. David emphasizes a servant mindset, faith, and clarity of purpose as anchors through change, encouraging people not to settle and to remember their “why.” He discusses contentment, slowing down, and learning to say no, plus leadership lessons from hardship that help him support chamber members. David shares coaching youth baseball to build character, critiques current youth sports culture, and explains community-based chamber initiatives that connect residents and businesses through experiences. He advises new business owners to build a personal board of advisors and grow sustainably.00:00 Beyond Business Intro00:39 Meet David 01:38 From Music to Media02:27 Marketing and Recession Pivot03:08 Calling to Law Enforcement04:04 Injury and Burnout Wakeup05:01 Finding Home at Chamber05:57 Mindset Through Curveballs09:05 Purpose Over Money10:07 Slowing Down for Joy12:10 Leadership Lessons and Coaching16:04 Building Center Valley Baseball16:59 Parents and Youth Sports Pressure19:26 Winning the Game of Life20:25 Advice for Small Businesses22:06 Community and Business Ecosystem23:04 Reinventing Chamber Events25:32 Serving Through Faith28:47 Pursuit Adventure Group Mission31:05 Time Management and Saying No34:53 Key Takeaways Recap38:01 Where to Find DavidDe Pere Chamber: https://deperechamber.org/Connect with David: www.davidvanderbloomen.comnine2ohmarketing.comcentralvirginiamarketing.com

In this episode of Beyond Business, Maddie and Hannah discuss the complexities of balancing professional responsibilities with personal life, particularly in the context of parenthood. They address the challenges posed by unexpected events such as snow days and personal illnesses, and the importance of maintaining a flexible mindset. The conversation highlights the need for positive self-talk, realistic goal-setting, and providing grace to oneself and others. They emphasize that success is not only about meeting rigid expectations but also about adapting to life's unpredictable circumstances. The episode concludes with a call to support fellow parents and professionals, recognizing the shared struggles and triumphs.00:00 Introduction: Beyond Business00:38 Starting the Conversation: Real Life Interruptions01:07 Pregnancy and Parenthood: The Real Talk02:46 Episode 12: Life Updates and School Closures04:41 Work-Life Integration: The Ongoing Challenge06:52 Managing Expectations and Productivity12:10 Flexibility and Fairness in the Workplace20:46 Grace and Understanding: Personal and Professional Balance23:29 Conclusion: Juggling It All24:57 Outro: Marketing Support for Business Ownerscentralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

In episode 11 of Beyond Business, hosts Maddie and Hannah delve into the life and career of Sam, a top-producing realtor from Green Bay. Sam shares her inspiring story of being a single mom, her transition from the health and fitness industry to real estate, and how she navigated her career during the unpredictable times of COVID. The discussion highlights the importance of being intentional and effective in both personal and professional realms, the challenges of balancing motherhood with a demanding career, and the significant role of community support. Sam also shares how her new season of partnership and marriage has positively impacted her life. The episode is a blend of personal anecdotes, professional insights, and practical advice for anyone feeling overwhelmed by the demands of balancing business and personal life.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Business00:43 Meet the Hosts and Special Guest01:33 Sam's Journey: From Fitness to Real Estate03:08 Balancing Motherhood and Career05:14 Navigating the Real Estate Industry17:58 The Importance of Support Systems21:38 Key Takeaways and Final Thoughts30:06 Closing Remarks and Contact InformationConnect with Samnine2ohmarketing.comcentralvirginiamarketing.com

In this episode of 'Beyond Business,' we talk to Jennifer Muse, a former teacher turned children's book author. Jennifer opens up about her personal and professional journey, including having a stroke at 39 weeks pregnant, leaving teaching and entering the construction industry. Despite the setbacks, Jennifer found a new sense of purpose by writing a children's book inspired by her experiences. The conversation touches on the importance of aligning work with personal values, dealing with life’s unexpected challenges, and finding fulfillment in meaningful moments. Jennifer also shares how she processes and copes with the gap between expectations and reality, emphasizing the importance of being present and connecting with others.Connect with Jen: Jennifer Musenine2ohmarketing.comcentralvirginiamarketing.com

In this reflective and relatable podcast episode, the hosts reconnect after the holidays to share highlights from family time, travel, and the realities of motherhood during a busy season. They discuss how the end of the year prompted deeper reflection on work-life balance, personal growth, and what it means to be present both at home and in their careers.The conversation naturally transitions into New Year intentions, with one host choosing the word sustain and the other focusing on consistency as guiding themes for 2026. Together, they unpack lessons learned from the past year, the mental load of motherhood, and how intentional goal-setting can support long-term growth rather than burnout.The episode wraps with excitement for the year ahead, meaningful connections, and a preview of inspiring guests and conversations coming next on the podcast—centered on motherhood, leadership, entrepreneurship, and navigating life with purpose.Cheers to 2026!nine2ohmarketing.comcentralvirginiamarketing.com

In this episode of Beyond Business, host Hannah introduces a new series focusing on marketing insights. The episode dives into the concept of personal branding, challenging the notion that business owners don't need a personal brand. Hannah explains the importance of personal branding as a launch point for all marketing efforts and how it helps build a relatable and trustworthy image. She emphasizes the significance of authenticity and urges listeners to reflect on their real selves versus their personas.Using examples like Fiji water and Kim Kardashian's brand, Skims, Hannah illustrates the impact of strong personal branding. The episode culminates in a practical exercise to create a unique two-word personal brand and how to leverage it in marketing strategies. Resources from branding expert Chris Do are also highlighted.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Business00:34 Meet Your Hosts and New Series Announcement01:26 The Importance of Personal Branding03:00 Understanding Brand Value Through Examples05:03 Defining Brand and Personal Brand07:16 The Real You vs. The Persona13:15 Creating Your Two-Word Personal Brand20:06 Practical Steps to Build Your Personal Brand23:54 Conclusion and Final Thoughtscentralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

In Episode 7 of Beyond Business, we dive into the complexities and misconceptions of scaling a business with special guest Jennifer Bryerton. The conversation challenges the assumption that growth always equates to success. Jennifer shares her journey through entrepreneurship and motherhood, highlighting the importance of intentionality, balance, and prioritizing impact over expansion. Key topics include setting realistic goals, the discipline required to say no, and the power of choosing creative freedom over profit margins. The episode also touches on building a reliable team and maintaining focus on what truly matters. Essential books like 'Company of One' and 'Essentialism' are discussed as valuable resources for entrepreneurs seeking to align their business growth with personal values.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Business00:39 Welcoming Special Guest: Jennifer Bryerton00:53 The Concept of Scaling in Business06:09 Jennifer's Entrepreneurial Journey09:11 Balancing Growth and Personal Values15:09 The Importance of the Right Team17:34 Books and Philosophies for Business Success21:24 The Challenges of Business Ownership21:33 Evaluating Lead Quality Over Quantity22:08 The Value of Time and Breakthrough Ideas23:33 Entrepreneurs as Creators24:45 Leveraging Skills and Building Systems26:20 The Power of Saying No28:14 Balancing Commitments and Mental Load34:32 Scaling Smartly and Setting Goals36:12 Jen's Projects and Final Thoughtshttps://virginiasummercamp.com/Contact Jen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jbryerton/centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

In this episode of 'Beyond Business,' hosts Maddie and Hannah discuss the intricate balance between business and personal success. They explore how the mindset behind juggling both spheres is crucial, and emphasize the importance of purposeful marketing over mere strategy. The episode features real-life anecdotes from business owners burned by ineffective marketing tactics and discusses how campaigns tied to clear objectives can truly make a difference. Maddie and Hannah share their four-phase approach to marketing: defining the purpose, planning, selecting the right platforms, and ensuring measurable results. Listeners will also gain insights into common mistakes in marketing and the significance of understanding one's audience. The episode emphasizes the need for ongoing and transparent communication between business owners and marketing consultants to achieve optimal, long-term results.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Business01:03 The Maddie and Hannah Episode01:29 Challenges in Marketing04:28 Defining Marketing Goals06:22 Common Marketing Mistakes11:43 Phases of a Marketing Campaign15:31 Understanding Your Audience16:20 Identifying Your Target Audience17:35 The Importance of Secondary Audiences18:20 Transparency in Marketing Strategies20:40 The Four Pillars of Ad Relevancy22:22 The Role of AI in Modern Marketing24:35 Measuring Marketing Success28:48 The Value of In-Depth Conversations31:42 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsFind us at:centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

In this episode of Beyond Business, hosts Maddie and Hannah chat with special guest Erica Gregory, founder of Three Cheers Marketing. Erica shares her inspiring journey from corporate marketing to starting her own business while balancing the responsibilities of motherhood. She discusses the pivotal role her children played in motivating her to pursue entrepreneurship, the importance of having a supportive partner, and the value of integrating work and family life. Erica also highlights the evolution of her business and the crucial support of her business partner. This episode is a must-listen for anyone feeling torn between pursuing their dreams and being present for their family.03:47 Introducing Erica Gregory05:23 Erica's Journey to Entrepreneurship10:22 Balancing Motherhood and Business21:17 Balancing Parenthood and Business Ownership22:14 The Importance of Family Support23:38 Navigating the Challenges of Entrepreneurship26:26 Creating Systems for Flexibility and Autonomy26:45 The Role of a Supportive Business Partner28:21 Staying in Your Zone of Genius29:14 Work-Life Integration Strategies33:01 The Hustle vs. Faith Paradigm38:53 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneur Parents41:37 Conclusion and Contact InformationConnect with Erica

In episode four, Maddie and Hannah discuss the challenges and techniques of capturing, saving, and organizing information and ideas while on the move. They share personal experiences, strategies, and tools such as the notes app, screenshots, voice memos, and color-coded systems to keep track of ideas. They emphasize the importance of identifying the best times for creative thinking and offer insights into how successful people manage their ideas. The episode also touches on the concept of reverse engineering and how self-awareness and time management can enhance productivity.00:00 Introduction and Greetings00:16 Episode Four: Excitement and Reflections00:28 The Importance of Capturing Ideas01:17 Strategies for Capturing Ideas on the Go03:06 Tools and Techniques for Idea Management05:23 Personal Approaches to Idea Management10:32 Reverse Engineering for Success16:34 Time Management and Productivity Tips22:37 Final Thoughts and Audience EngagementFind us at: centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

Hosts Maddie and Hannah dive into a conversation with Susan Doughty-Smith, founder of Talent Advancement Professionals. They discuss Susan's insights on leadership, 'happenstance career theory', culture, and employee engagement. Susan shares her journey from TV news to HR and ultimately entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of humility, continuous growth, and building a cohesive culture within organizations. The episode highlights practical advice on creating an engaging work environment and the critical role of both leaders and employees in fostering a positive organizational culture.00:00 Casual Catch-Up: Hockey Season and Halloween Plans04:01 Introduction to Beyond Business04:49 Meet Susan: A Journey Through Leadership07:31 The Happenstance Career Theory09:03 Leadership and Organizational Development15:13 The Role of Emerging Leaders18:06 Building a Culture of Engagement30:00 Final Thoughts and Contact InformationSusan Doughty-SmithTalent Advancement Professionals

In this episode of Beyond Business, hosts Maddie and Hannah challenge the conventional concept of work-life balance and advocate for a more realistic approach: work-life integration. They discuss how entrepreneurs, leaders, and working parents can blend their professional and personal lives seamlessly to reduce stress and increase fulfillment. They also share practical strategies, including setting priorities, understanding self-awareness, and aligning personal values with professional goals. The episode includes insightful anecdotes, audience engagement exercises, and an exploration of sustainable practices for maintaining a harmonious life and career.00:00 Introduction to Beyond Business00:39 Technical Difficulties and Banter01:37 Episode Two: Work-Life Balance02:57 Debunking the Myth of Work-Life Balance04:01 The Concept of Work-Life Integration05:18 Practical Tips for Work-Life Integration08:37 The Shoe Analogy and Work Evolution11:52 Prioritizing and Integrating Life Roles15:56 The Smoothie Analogy for Integration16:29 Integrating Personal and Professional Life18:17 Self-Awareness and Its Impact18:57 The Influence of Personal Life on Work20:51 Flexibility in Work-Life Integration23:15 Setting Priorities and Values27:21 Creating an Ideal Schedule30:07 Final Thoughts on Work-Life IntegrationFind us at:centralvirginiamarketing.comnine2ohmarketing.com

In this debut episode of Beyond Business, hosts Hannah Anderson and Maddie Silk introduce their new podcast dedicated to exploring life beyond the boardroom. They discuss their background as marketing strategists, share personal stories of how their careers and lives have pivoted, and explain the podcast's core values: consistency, vulnerability, excellence, and curiosity. The hosts also highlight the types of guests and topics they plan to explore, touching on business strategies, leadership, mindset, and parenthood. Tune in to learn more about balancing personal and professional lives while striving for continuous growth and improvement.