Business Origin Stories for Entrepreneurs, Coaches, and Leaders

Send us Fan MailWhat changes when leadership decisions carry real consequences?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I sit down with David Fivecoat, a former U.S. Army Colonel turned executive coach and founder of The Fivecoat Consulting Group. After more than two decades leading soldiers in some of the world's most complex and high-stakes environments, David now works with executive teams to help them lead with clarity, discipline, and accountability.This conversation explores what happens when leaders are removed from conference rooms and placed in environments where decisions mattered immediately and visibly. David shares how experiential leadership, historical battlefields, and shared adversity create a level of alignment and trust that traditional training never reaches.We also talk about grit, goal-setting, and why most leaders quit on meaningful change long before results appear. David explains why identity, sacrifice, and consistency matter more than motivation, and how leaders can build habits and accountability systems that actually stick.In this episode, we discuss:Why experiential leadership changes behavior faster than theoryWhat business leaders can learn from historic battlefields like Normandy and the AlamoHow grit is built through identity, not willpowerWhy most goals fail and what leaders must give up to succeedHow shared challenge creates long-term accountability inside teamsIf you’re leading through growth, crisis, or transformation, and you’re tired of leadership development that fades the moment people return to work, this conversation will stay with you.Connect with David: https://www.thefivecoatconsultinggroup.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailMost people don’t struggle with the desire to give. They struggle with knowing how.In this episode, Elena Fracchia shares what she has learned working across nonprofit management, fundraising, and wealth strategy. After seeing both sides of philanthropy, she identified a consistent gap. People are surrounded by financial advice, but no one is helping them connect their values to meaningful impact.Elena built The Good Philanthropist to fill that gap.She works with individuals, families, corporations, and nonprofits to clarify what giving should actually look like. Not just from a tax or compliance standpoint, but from a purpose and legacy perspective.Inside this conversation, she explains why so many people hesitate to give, what’s missing in traditional advisory conversations, and how to approach philanthropy in a way that feels both practical and personal.Key insights from this episode:Why billions of dollars sit unused in donor-advised fundsThe real reason people avoid conversations about givingHow to identify your personal “lane” of impactThe difference between program-based giving and trust-based philanthropyHow businesses can structure giving for both strategic impact and employee engagementWhy legacy should be treated as an active practice, not a final decisionElena also reframes a common misconception. Philanthropy is not reserved for the ultra-wealthy. At its core, it simply means love of humanity. That opens the door for anyone to participate, regardless of income level.For business owners, this conversation adds another layer. Giving is not just generosity. It is part of brand, culture, and long-term positioning. When done well, it strengthens both internal alignment and external impact.This episode is a practical guide to making generosity intentional instead of reactive.Connect with Elena:Website: https://www.thegoodphilanthropist.com/LinkedIn: Elena Fracchia Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailMost companies wait too long to develop their next generation of leaders.In this episode, Amy sits down with Randy Hain, executive coach, author, and founder of Serving Partners, to talk about the gap most organizations ignore: investing in early-career professionals before they become senior leaders.Randy brings over 30 years of experience as a senior executive and now coaches leaders across Fortune 10,000 companies. Through that work, he has seen a consistent pattern. Organizations pour time, money, and energy into senior leaders, but often leave younger professionals to develop “by accident.” His latest book, Practical Virtue, challenges that approach. It combines leadership skills with the disciplined practice of values like kindness, patience, vulnerability, clarity, and candor. Randy draws a clear distinction between values and virtue. Values are what you believe. Virtue is what you practice consistently enough that it becomes who you are. The conversation also explores what Randy is seeing in Gen Z professionals today. Contrary to common assumptions, he describes a group that is eager to learn and wants to be developed, but often struggles with confidence, curiosity, and relationship-building in professional environments. Amy and Randy discuss what leaders can do about it, including a simple but structured approach to mentorship through Randy’s “One Plus Three Project.”In this episode, you’ll hear:Why leadership development often happens too lateThe difference between values and virtue in leadershipWhat younger professionals are actually asking forWhy confidence and curiosity are showing up differently in Gen ZHow to implement simple, structured mentorship inside your companyThis episode is especially relevant for founders, CEOs, and senior leaders who want to build stronger teams and avoid future leadership gaps.ConnectGuest: Randy HainCompany: https://www.serviampartners.com/Book: Practical VirtueInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailThe path from college to career is not working the way it used to.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, the founder of YoPro shares what he’s seeing firsthand after working with more than 70 young professionals trying to land jobs in today’s market. His perspective comes from 25 years in marketing working with Fortune 100 and Fortune 500 companies, followed by a layoff that pushed him to start his own business.YoPro focuses on helping college students and recent graduates navigate what he calls a “hostile job market.” Through one-on-one coaching, his team helps students build confidence, develop a clear story, and learn how to network and interview effectively.What makes this conversation especially relevant is the gap he highlights between what colleges teach and what employers expect. Students are often strong in academics but lack the skills needed to communicate their value, build relationships, and stand out in interviews.You’ll hear how his program works, including how they:Help students identify what makes them unique and turn it into a compelling elevator pitchBuild resumes that align with that positioningTeach practical networking strategies, including outreach to people they’ve never metPrepare students for different types of interviewers through simulation and practiceHe also shares what he’s seeing across this generation. Many young professionals are rethinking their relationship with work after watching their parents experience layoffs and instability. At the same time, companies are struggling to adapt to their communication style and expectations.This episode also explores what employers need to understand if they want to successfully hire and retain this generation, especially as AI continues to reshape entry-level roles.If you are a CEO, parent, or leader responsible for hiring, this conversation will give you a clearer picture of what is actually happening and what needs to change.Connect with Chris: https://www.theyopro.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-a-greene/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the traits that made you successful start working against you?In this episode, Claudia Beck, founder of Better Together Group, shares her journey from a 30-year corporate career to coaching senior executives on conscious leadership. After reaching senior leadership and experiencing a forced exit, Claudia was confronted with a fundamental question: who do you want to be when you are no longer operating at full speed?Claudia now works with highly intelligent, high-performing leaders who want to improve their relational capacity and lead more intentionally. Her work focuses on helping leaders move from automatic behaviors like control, perfectionism, or shutdown into conscious choice.This conversation explores the tension many leaders face today. Organizations reward results, speed, and competition. But as AI accelerates execution and automation, the differentiator is shifting toward human connection, awareness, and emotional intelligence.Claudia also shares the personal realities behind her transition into entrepreneurship, including grief, identity loss, and the mindset shifts required to trust uncertainty without a steady paycheck.Inside this episode, we cover:What “conscious leadership” actually means in practiceWhy high achievers struggle to slow downThe difference between automatic behavior and intentional choiceHow AI is reshaping the role of human connection in leadershipThe emotional and psychological transition from corporate to entrepreneurshipPractical ways leaders can reconnect with their inner wisdomClaudia introduces a progression from intellectual intelligence to emotional intelligence to what she calls systems intelligence, where leaders understand how their behavior impacts others and the broader environment.She also shares simple but powerful practices, including questioning your first thought, reconnecting with your body, and learning to say no to what is not aligned.This episode is for leaders who are successful on paper but sense that something deeper needs to change.Connect with Claudia Beck:Website: bettertogethergroup.coInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the number you’re chasing in business isn’t actually the number you need?In this episode, Amy sits down with Carrie Veatch, who helps entrepreneurs build time, location, and financial freedom in a way that is grounded in their real life, not arbitrary goals.Carrie’s work starts with a simple but often avoided question: what do you actually need? Instead of chasing external benchmarks, she guides clients to define their personal version of financial freedom and build a roadmap that aligns income, time, and lifestyle.Her path into this work was not linear. It began with curiosity, a desire to create independence, and early exposure to ideas from Tim Ferriss. Over time, that evolved through real estate investing, living abroad for five years, and building a co-hosting business in the short-term rental space.In this conversation, Carrie shares both strategy and lived experience, including the internal challenges that come with money, identity, and leadership.You’ll hear:Why most financial goals are disconnected from realityHow to calculate your true “freedom number”Where people get stuck when facing debt and financesWhat co-hosting is and how to start with little to no riskWhy networking is still one of the most effective growth strategiesWhat happens when you achieve freedom and still feel stuckCarrie also opens up about the emotional side of entrepreneurship, including navigating identity shifts, unmet expectations, and redefining success after reaching initial goals.This episode is both practical and reflective. It gives you clear entry points into new income streams like co-hosting, while also challenging you to rethink what you are actually building toward.If you’ve ever felt like you’re chasing numbers without clarity, this conversation will help you reset your approach.Connect with Carrie: https://setyourselffreellc.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailMost leaders don’t think about HR until something breaks. But by then, it’s already costing time, energy, and momentum.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, Neil Katz shares how his fractional HR firm helps companies remove the operational burden of people management so leaders can focus on growth.Neil works with businesses ranging from five to five hundred employees, helping them navigate everything from hiring and onboarding to performance management and compliance. His core belief is simple. Leaders should not spend their time solving problems that experts can handle faster and more effectively.He explains how his team gives leaders back 4 to 12 hours per week by managing the “drama and trauma” that comes with people operations.But this conversation goes beyond systems and efficiency. Neil shares the mindset shifts that shaped his journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship, including the moment he took a risk without knowing the outcome and the role his wife played in pushing him forward.Inside this episode, we cover:Why waiting for HR problems makes them harder and more expensive to solveHow fractional support creates access to expertise without full-time costWhat actually builds trust between founders and external expertsWhy growth requires discomfort and how to approach mistakesHow to identify what your people truly enjoy and where they perform bestThe role of AI in business and why human connection still mattersNeil also breaks down how he helps leaders think differently, not by directing them, but by asking better questions and creating space for better decisions.If you are leading a growing company and feel pulled into areas outside your expertise, this episode will help you rethink how you use your time and where to bring in support.Connect with Neil Katz:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilkatzhrWebsite: https://exceptionalhrsolutions.comInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailAI is no longer optional. But rushing into it may be the most expensive mistake your business can make.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, Matt Murphy shares what he’s learned from deploying AI inside real companies and why most of those efforts fail.With 30 years in technology and the last five focused on AI, Matt has worked across ERP, cloud, HRIS, and enterprise systems. Today, as CEO of The Faction Group, he helps businesses implement AI in a way that actually works.His biggest insight: AI doesn’t fail. Businesses fail to prepare for it.Matt breaks down what “AI readiness” really means and why two factors consistently determine success or failure:Data readinessPeople alignmentHe explains how messy data leads to scaled chaos, and why ignoring your team’s experience can stop adoption entirely. In one example, a fully functional AI solution failed simply because it removed a task employees actually enjoyed doing.This episode also explores the hidden reality of “shadow AI,” where employees are already using AI tools without company oversight, creating both opportunity and risk.Beyond readiness, Matt shares how AI is changing the nature of work itself. Tasks are being automated, but leadership, orchestration, and decision-making are becoming more important than ever.You’ll also hear how Matt applied AI inside his own business by building an internal AI agent named Bertha. Acting as a chief of staff, Bertha manages priorities, reviews daily performance, and keeps the business aligned to its goals.This shift led to a major transformation:Four companies reduced to oneClear product focusIncreased operational clarityStronger business momentumIf you’re trying to figure out how to approach AI without overwhelming your team or risking your business, this conversation will give you a practical framework.Connect with Matt Murphy:LinkedIn: Matt Murphy (CEO, The Faction Group)Social: @gofaction / @gofactiongrouphttps://gofactiongroup.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailMany founders imagine that selling their company will be the finish line. But for many leaders, the exit is actually the beginning of a new identity crisis.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, Amy Schutte sits down with Peter Corbett, former agency founder turned executive coach, to explore what happens after entrepreneurial success.Peter built a digital agency that grew to roughly 100 full-time employees and another 150 contractors in a given year before selling the company to a public organization at age 36. Like many founders, his life had been completely centered on the business. When the sale closed, the sudden absence of that role created what he describes as a form of ego death.The phone stopped ringing. The conferences stopped. The context that had defined his identity disappeared.Instead of immediately launching another venture, Peter took a very different path. He trained in a Zen hospice program in New York and spent nine months working with sick and dying patients in a hospital. That experience reshaped how he thinks about leadership, value, and the human side of success.Today, Peter works as an executive coach primarily with founders and CEOs. His coaching practice blends business strategy with personal development, relationships, spiritual inquiry, and even biological health metrics. He believes many high achievers reach a point where the traditional markers of success no longer provide meaning.In this conversation, Peter shares how that shift happens and what leaders can do about it.Inside this episode, you’ll hear:What it actually feels like after selling a companyWhy many founders struggle with identity after an exitHow Peter’s hospice training changed how he views leadership and valueThe role presence and self-awareness play in sustainable leadershipWhy burnout and awe cannot coexist in the nervous systemHow Peter now works with founders through coaching, retreats, and immersive experiencesPeter also shares the story behind his unusual workspace inside the historic Domino Sugar Factory in Brooklyn, where he hosts conversations and tea ceremonies inside a lotus bell tent designed to encourage deeper dialogue.For leaders navigating transition, burnout, or the next chapter after success, this conversation offers a thoughtful perspective on what sustainable well-being can actually look like.Connect with Peter: Website: https://stillrush.coInstagram / LinkedIn: Corbett3000Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhen a leader walks into a struggling organization, the instinct is often to fix things fast. But Mark McFatridge learned early in his career that real turnaround work begins with listening.After earning his first bank president role, Mark relocated from Indianapolis to Springfield, Missouri to lead the worst performing banking group in the company. He didn’t know the team, the community, or the culture. What he did know was that walking in with a heavy hand would fail.Instead, he spent his first 30 to 45 days engaging the organization. He walked the halls, sat in break rooms, and asked employees two questions:What do we do well?What do we suck at?From those conversations he built a report he called “The Good, the Bad, and the Ugly.” That process eventually shaped the leadership framework he would later formalize as the Four E’s:Engagement — Listen first. Understand the culture and identify what works and what does not.Education — Clarify the vision and help the team understand how the business actually works.Empowerment — Give people the authority and tools to act on that vision.Execution — Create accountability so the team follows through.Mark used this framework repeatedly during his banking career as he turned around multiple struggling regions.Later, after retiring from banking in 2017, he launched Quaid, a peer community designed specifically for CEOs, founders, and entrepreneurs. The model brings small groups of leaders together in “circles” of eight to ten members who meet regularly to challenge each other, share experiences, and hold each other accountable.The idea came from Mark’s own experience joining a CEO peer organization earlier in his career. That community changed the way he approached leadership, and he wanted to create that same level of support for others.Inside this conversation, we explore:What leaders should do during their first 30–45 days in a struggling organizationWhy culture change begins with listening rather than directivesThe structure Mark uses to facilitate CEO peer groupsWhy leadership challenges almost always come back to peopleMark also shares one principle that guides both his leadership and his work facilitating CEO circles: listen to understand, not to respond.If you lead a company, manage a team, or are responsible for fixing something that isn’t working, this episode offers practical insight into how strong leadership actually shows up.Connect with MarkWebsite: www.quadecircle.comLinkedIn: Mark McFatridgePodcast: Igniting the CEO WithinInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when leaders measure their value by how busy they are?For many nonprofit and government leaders, the pressure to respond to every crisis becomes a badge of honor. The calendar fills up, the phone never stops, and the mission feels too important to slow down.But that approach comes with a cost.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, Julie Jakopic joins Amy Schutte to talk about leadership, worthiness, and the dangerous habit of living in constant urgency.Julie works with nonprofit and government leaders who want to create meaningful impact while still having a life they love. Through retreats, coaching, and leadership development, she helps leaders ask better questions, identify what is actually theirs to carry, and make intentional decisions about how they spend their time.Earlier in her career, Julie lived the same pattern she now helps others break. In environments where there was always more need, she pushed herself to solve every problem. Eventually she realized something critical: her misery was not helping anyone. In fact, it was making things worse.That insight changed how she approached leadership.Instead of reacting to every crisis, Julie began focusing on better questions, personal responsibility, and helping leaders recognize their own worthiness outside of their roles.In this conversation, you’ll hear Julie share the exercises and frameworks she uses in her retreats to help leaders clarify what they truly want and begin building a plan to pursue it.Inside this episode:Why leaders often measure their importance by busyness and crisisThe hidden cost of living in constant urgencyHow asking better questions changes leadership decisionsWhy worthiness is often the real barrier to changeThe exercise Julie uses to help leaders identify what they truly wantJulie also explains why creating space for reflection and community with other leaders can unlock clarity that busy schedules often prevent.If you’ve ever felt trapped by your calendar or unsure how to balance impact with personal life, this conversation offers a practical starting point.Connect with JulieWebsite:thewomenwholead.comMore information:ileadstrategies.comInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever looked around online and thought, “What’s working for everyone else, and why doesn’t it work for me?” this episode is for you.In this conversation, Amy sits down with Macy Robison, a longtime friend from the StoryBrand Guide community, to talk about why so many experts get stuck chasing shiny strategies and how to come back to the way you are actually wired to lead.Macy helps experts and thought leaders transform their wisdom into resonant thought leadership that feels authentic, creates impact, and builds sustainable success. Her central idea is simple and disruptive: most people aren’t failing because they’re not talented. They’re exhausted because they’re forcing themselves into strategies that don’t fit.Inside this episode, you’ll hear:The story that changed Macy’s trajectory, including a moment at an Amy Porterfield event where she realized she could build courses for others but could not create one for herselfMacy’s “core resonance” model, built around the four Es: essence, experience, expression, and embodimentThe archetype assessment Macy created to measure how you naturally express ideas and guide transformationA breakdown of several archetypes, including Resonant Orator, Wisdom Writer, Digital Learning Architect, Strategic Advisor, and Category CreatorWhy voice and frequency matter in leadership and marketing, plus Macy’s unforgettable opera story about the “singer’s formant” and cutting through noise without a microphoneHow to stop trying to productize yourself the wrong way and instead design offers and platforms that work with your strengthsMacy also shares why this work matters beyond business: owning your impact is a deliberate choice, and the “size of your stage” is something you can decide over time.ConnectWebsite: macyrobison.comTake the quiz: macyrobison.com/quizPodcast: Own Your ImpactInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhen the old leadership model stops working, most leaders assume the problem is external. The market. The team. The generation. The culture.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, Amy Schutte sits down with Traci Philips, founder of the Innate Coach and an executive leadership and performance coach working with high performers in major transition, especially in the mergers and acquisitions space. Traci supports leaders navigating uncertainty, ambiguity, and rapid change, where decisions impact entire teams and cultures.Traci explains a pattern she sees repeatedly in high-performing leaders: they often build success on uncomfortable pressure. Not healthy pressure, but fear-driven intensity. The fear of losing control. The fear of falling behind. The fear of not surviving. Over time, that fear becomes the engine behind their edge.But what happens when that same model starts to break?Amy and Traci talk about what it means to move from a survival paradigm to a thrive paradigm. Survival leadership focuses on scarcity and control. Thrive leadership builds from alignment, groundedness, and transparency. Traci shares a recent experience speaking at a leadership summit in Salt Lake City for a private equity-backed organization, where a new CEO modeled transparent leadership by welcoming hard questions, acknowledging mistakes, and leading forward anyway.In this conversation, you’ll hear:Why fear-based leadership can quietly drive both performance and burnoutWhat grounded leadership looks like in times of uncertaintyWhy “don’t let them see you sweat” no longer builds trustHow Traci uses Human Design as a framework for understanding innate traits and alignmentWhy collaboration is becoming essential to the future of leadershipTraci also shares her book, Looking In: Discover to Find and Align the True Value of Your Life, Leadership, and Legacy, and invites leaders to stop pretending they have to know it all.ConnectConnect with Traci Philips on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/traci-philips/Explore her book and work: https://theinnatecoach.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when women are taught to be palatable instead of powerful?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I sit down with Sophie Jane Lee, CEO and founder of Electric Peach, to talk about her debut book, Beyond Palatable—a bold, compassionate manifesto for women who are tired of shrinking, apologizing, and silencing themselves to fit in.Sophie shares her deeply personal journey, from growing up undiagnosed neurodivergent and struggling with addiction, to reclaiming her voice and helping thousands of women do the same. We explore why women silence themselves, why women silence each other, and how centuries of conditioning still show up in modern spaces like social media, leadership, motherhood, and visibility.This conversation dives into:Why “being seen” still feels dangerous for so many womenHow shame, perfectionism, and burnout keep women smallThe difference between women being silenced and women silencing themselvesWhat community, ritual, and cycles can teach us about coming home to ourselvesWhy using your voice will always invite resistance—and why that’s a sign it mattersThis episode is honest, expansive, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt like you were too much, not enough, or afraid to take up space, this conversation will meet you exactly where you are.Sophie’s book Beyond Palatable is available for pre-order now, with release on International Women’s Day.Buy the book: https://beyondpalatable.com/Connect with Sophia: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophieturton/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the business gets hard and there’s nowhere to hide?In this episode of Business Origin Stories,  I sit down with executive coach Steve Smith for a grounded, honest conversation about leadership when comfort zones collapse, money gets emotional, and identity is forced to change.Steve has spent over 16 years coaching leaders across industries, from startups to Fortune 500 companies, and what he brings to this conversation is refreshingly real. We talk about what’s actually at stake when leaders avoid discomfort, why financial clarity is a leadership skill, and how business owners can move forward after a year marked by layoffs, pivots, or loss of momentum.This is not a conversation about manifesting your way out of reality. It’s about discipline, responsibility, emotional maturity, and choosing to lead even when the numbers hurt and the path forward isn’t obvious.In this episode, we cover:- Why comfort zones quietly erode leadership over time- How money avoidance damages both businesses and families- What leaders owe their teams during uncertain seasons- How to rebuild after a hard year without pretending it didn’t happen- Why identity shifts, not tactics, determine long-term successIf you’re a founder, executive, or business owner entering a new year carrying the weight of the last one, this conversation will meet you where you are and challenge you to step forward anyway.Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachstevejsmith/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailLeadership problems rarely start at the top. They start in the middle.In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I sit down with Keith Repko, a former healthcare executive who spent decades leading one of the largest VA medical systems in a five-state region. Over his career, Keith oversaw thousands of employees, multiple hospital campuses, and complex operational systems, and what he learned is simple and uncomfortable: most organizations promote people into leadership roles without teaching them how to lead.We talk about why bad managers drive great people out the door, why younger generations are increasingly opting out of leadership roles altogether, and what actually works when it comes to developing strong, relational leaders inside complex organizations.Keith shares real-world stories from healthcare, practical frameworks leaders can use immediately, and why relationship-first leadership is not “soft,” but operationally essential.In this episode, we explore:Why most leadership training comes too lateThe real cost of promoting high performers who aren’t ready to leadHow poor management accelerates burnout and turnoverPractical ways leaders can build trust and cohesion across teamsHow organizations can create leadership pathways without forcing people into managementWhether you lead a hospital system, a growing company, or a small team, this conversation will change how you think about leadership development and what it truly takes to build teams that last.Connect with Keith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keith-repko-a0b80684/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the real leadership crisis isn’t burnout — but never having time to work on what truly matters?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I sit down with Frederick Buskey, a former assistant principal turned leadership coach, to explore how leaders — especially in education — can escape the constant pull of urgency and reclaim their time, priorities, and humanity.Frederick shares his powerful framework for helping principals, assistant principals, and leaders stop living at the mercy of emails, interruptions, and endless to-do lists — and instead design their days around values, big priorities, and long-term impact.We talk about:Why “being busy” has replaced real leadershipHow leaders can escape the gravitational pull of urgencyThe matrix that helps leaders own their day instead of reacting to itWhat changes when schools (and businesses) align systems with valuesHow to protect your priorities when pressure comes from the topWhy creativity, humanity, and connection matter more than ever in an AI-driven worldThe future of education — and what must remain humanWe also dive into the role of creativity in leadership, including a meaningful conversation about The Artist’s Way, and why reclaiming creative energy isn’t optional — it’s essential.This episode is for educators, leaders, founders, and anyone who feels like their days are being hijacked by urgency instead of intention.If you’ve ever ended a day wondering how you worked so hard — yet didn’t move the needle — this conversation is for you.Connect with Frederick: https://www.frederickbuskey.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the way we work is the very thing that’s breaking us—and what if there’s another way?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I’m joined by Olivier Egli, a business guide who stands at the intersection of leadership, neuroscience, psychology, and spirituality, offering a radically different blueprint for work—one that breaks from our traditional, toxic approaches to success.Olivier’s work invites leaders, founders, and parents to reconsider everything from productivity and ambition to abundance, intuition, and peace. His perspective is deeply informed by lived transformation—moving through identity death, uncertainty, and “winter seasons” to arrive at a regenerative, fertile model of business and life.In our conversation, we explore:What a fertile, sustainable business actually looks like in practiceWhy intuition is becoming a non-negotiable leadership skillThe identity shifts required to trust abundance and reciprocityHow hustle culture and optimization-based coaching are burning people outWhy darkness, grief, and uncertainty are essential parts of real growthWhat it means to measure success by peace—not performanceHow we raise children for a world that no longer follows old rulesThis episode is not about tactics or scaling faster.It’s about becoming the kind of leader—and human—who can build something life-giving.If you feel called to create work that honors nature, nervous systems, and the soul—this conversation will resonate deeply.Connect with Olivier: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dohappywork/www.belikeanappletree.comInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when family, business, legacy, and pressure collide?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I sit down with Scott Gingold, a self-described family business therapist who helps founders, owners, and multi-generational companies untangle conflict, rebuild trust, and move forward without blowing up the business, or their relationships.Scott’s path to this work is anything but typical. From surviving life-or-death moments as a first responder to building, exiting, and reinventing multiple businesses, his approach to leadership and resilience is grounded in perspective, accountability, and humanity.In our conversation, we explore:- Why most family businesses stall (and what actually gets them unstuck)- How fear, guilt, and unspoken expectations quietly sabotage growth- The real difference between "talking at each other" and "working with each other"- Why resilience is the defining leadership skill right now- What successful founders do differently when the world shifts- How to redefine success beyond revenue, titles, or exits- Why CEOs and business owners need confidential space to think out loudWe also talk about creativity in uncertain markets, resisting doom-scroll culture, human-to-human connection in sales, and why building a meaningful life alongside_a successful business isn’t optional—it’s the point.This episode is for:- Family-owned and multi-generational businesses- Founders and CEOs feeling stuck or overwhelmed- Leaders navigating growth, conflict, or transition- Anyone redefining success beyond hustleConnect with Scott: https://www.gingoldadvisors.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the biggest thing holding women back isn’t a lack of opportunity—but the quiet agreements we make with ourselves to wait?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, I’m joined by Emily Lampkin, longtime Washington, D.C. power broker, global speaker, and author of the upcoming book White Lies and Duct Tape. Emily has spent decades working inside politics, government, corporations, and global organizations—and studying one question closely:Why do some women thrive, while others slowly abandon their dreams?Emily breaks down the three fundamentals she’s seen in women who build fulfilled, powerful lives—whether they’re CEOs, elected officials, entrepreneurs, or managing hotels, households, or communities:Selling You: How women must learn to articulate their value, advocate for themselves, and communicate differently in male- and female-dominated environmentsWidening the Circle: Why access—to people, information, and relationships—is everything, and how to build a dynamic, useful network without performative networkingGoing Now: The cost of waiting for the “right time,” and how women unknowingly become their own dream-slashersWe also talk about the real story behind White Lies and Duct Tape—a phrase that perfectly captures how women hold everything together while postponing what matters most to them. Emily makes a powerful case for why every woman deserves her own strategic plan, not someday—but now.This conversation is honest, sharp, and deeply liberating. It’s for women who are done waiting for permission, perfect timing, or imaginary milestones—and ready to build lives and careers that actually fit.Connect with Emily: https://www.emilylampkin.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if your next career move isn't about finding the perfect job—but finally becoming the most unapologetic version of yourself?Executive coach Jennifer Speciale joins host Amy Schutte for a raw conversation about career reinvention, owning your story, and stepping into your power without apologizing for it.Jennifer opens up about her own pivots: moving to Italy, realizing she was massively underutilized, and rebuilding her career from scratch with clarity and zero regrets. Now she helps executives, emerging leaders, and anyone feeling stuck turn their experience into visibility, confidence, and intentional next moves.If you're navigating a transition, craving more meaning at work, or struggling to tell your story as a leader—this episode will give you the tools, the permission, and the push you need.What we cover:How to spot when you're being underutilized (and what to actually do about it)The mindset shifts that help leaders stop shrinking and start owning their spaceWhy storytelling isn't fluffy—it's essential for career growth and getting noticedHow to identify the wins, metrics, and moments that make you stand outWhat career pivots really require (for entrepreneurs and executives)How to prep for your next level before you're readyWhy so many women leave the workforce mid-career—and how to come back strongerThe art of taking credit, being visible, and ditching the self-minimizing habitIf you've ever thought, "There has to be more for me than this"—start here.Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn or at https://www.jenniferspeciale.com/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhy do we resist change, even when we want it?How do leaders move from fear into possibility when the world around them is evolving faster than ever?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with Andi Simon, a blue ocean strategist, author, and leadership advisor who helps organizations reinvent themselves, rewrite their internal narratives, and navigate the identity shifts required for growth.Together, they explore:Why humans cling to old stories and how to gently unhook from themThe psychology of change — and what actually helps people cross the threshold into something new How to spot or create your own blue ocean in any industryWhy AI and emerging technologies trigger fear, and how leaders can move from panic to possibility The mindset traits that make transformation sustainable, both personally and organizationally How rewriting your story (or a team member’s) opens doors to confidence, adaptability, and innovationAndi also shares beautiful insights about work, purpose, and the overlooked transition many leaders face between mid-career and retirement, and why that season might be one of the greatest blue oceans of all.If you’re navigating a transition, building something new, or feeling the pull toward your next chapter, this episode will expand your perspective and give you tangible tools to step forward with clarity and courage.Connect with Andi at https://www.simonassociates.net/ or on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andisimon/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat happens when the thing you’ve built your identity on… stops being the thing the world needs from you?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with Michael Landers — global leadership and culture consultant, author, and founder of Culture Crossing — for a raw, honest conversation about AI, identity, purpose, and what remains when everything around us changes.Together, they explore:How 20+ years of expertise in leadership and culture suddenly felt shaky in the face of rapidly advancing AIWhy so many of us tether our worth to productivity, titles, and credentials — and what happens when those are stripped awayThe idea of an “existential vacuum” and why AI layoffs and disruption may intensify questions of meaning and purposeViktor Frankl’s framework of creative, experiential, and attitudinal values — and how it can guide us through identity shiftsJungian psychology’s concept of the “second adulthood” and why so many people in their 30s–50s feel like the life they built no longer fitsWhy Michael believes AI will increase the need for authentic interaction, community, and shared experienceHow leaders, founders, and organizations may need to reinvent the playbook for leadership in a world where expertise is increasingly commoditizedWho are you if you’re not your job?What remains when your expertise becomes obsolete?And how do we navigate this shift with more self-awareness, humanity, and hope?If you’re a leader, founder, or high-achiever who feels like your identity is in motion, this episode will give you language, frameworks, and a sense that you’re not alone in the “lab.”Website: culturecrossing.netLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaellandersculturecrossing/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to create visual content for some of the world's biggest brands—and sustain that success for over two decades?In this episode, director and photographer Stewart Cohen pulls back the curtain on the creative industry, sharing insights from his extensive portfolio working with American Airlines, AT&T, Coca-Cola, MGM Resorts, and Frito-Lay through his production company, SC Pictures.In this conversation, you'll discover:The evolution of brand storytelling – How visual campaigns have shifted from ultra-polished productions to embracing authentic, user-generated aestheticsWhat actually works in short-form content – Stewart's approach to creating compelling six-second ads that capture attention and drive engagementAI's impact on creative work – An honest look at how artificial intelligence is changing photography, video production, and the future of creative careers (spoiler: it's not all doom and gloom) How to land corporate clients – Stewart's networking strategies, including why airplane conversations have led to some of his best opportunities The patience principle – Why thinking in 20-year increments, not two-year plans, is the key to building a sustainable creative business Behind major campaigns – Insights into the creative process for everything from Super Bowl commercials to tourism campaignsBuilding in the licensing space – How Stewart became an influential player by acquiring SuperStock and expanding to manage 26 million visual assetsPerfect for: Creative entrepreneurs, marketers, photographers, videographers, business owners looking to scale, and anyone curious about the intersection of creativity and commerce in the digital age.Stewart's philosophy? "Framing life in its best light" while staying nimble, authentic, and always marketing—even at 30,000 feet.Connect with Stewart Cohen:  Stewart Cohen | Dallas, TX | Commercial Video Production | PhotographyWant help clarifying your message and telling stories that actually connect? That's what we do. Visit hudsonandco. co to learn more.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if one tiny decision—like choosing a local salt over a supermarket staple—could help change your food system, your family life, and your business?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with Sarah McElrae, the founder of Summa Salts and the beloved “Salt Lady” of Jacksonville, Florida. Sarah went from a chaotic childhood and a career in education to building a fast-growing, values-driven product-based business rooted in local food, regenerative farming, and really fun salt blends (hello, Vampire Killer and Lava Head crew 🥵).She shares how a deeply personal health journey led her to rethink food quality, why she believes nature still has the best blueprint for how we eat, and how one small choice—like visiting your farmers market—can genuinely move the needle for local growers and makers. We also get into the real talk of scaling a product-based business, bringing her husband into the company, homeschooling their daughter, and filtering every big decision through the lens of family balance.Listen in to learn:How Summa Salts went from a home kitchen and farmers markets to a legal commercial kitchen and a growing e-commerce brandThe mindset shifts Sarah made to move from “just making a product” to leading a mission-driven local food movementPractical ways anyone can support regenerative food systems without needing a full homestead or giant gardenWhat she’s learned about trust, vulnerability, and relationships from authors like Dr. John Gottman and Brené Brown—and how that shapes her family and businessWhy playful branding (like Vampire Killer and Lava) + strong values is such a powerful combo for standing out onlineIf you’ve ever dreamed of turning your “little” product idea into a real, profitable brand—or you just want to eat better, live more locally, and make one meaningful decision a day—this conversation will inspire you to start right where you are.Buy your own salts: https://summasalts.comFollow Sarah on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/summasalts/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailAre you making big decisions from a place of clarity—or chaos?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with executive coach and decision-making expert Michael Walker to unpack why so many founders and leaders feel stuck, second-guess themselves, or unintentionally throw their teams into whiplash with constant pivots.Drawing on years of research, coaching, and real-world leadership experience, Mike breaks down:Why decision-making is a teachable skill, not a personality trait you either have or don’tHow to understand your decision-making style (gut-decider, slow processor, community processor, etc.) and actually work with itWhat neuroscience reveals about how our brains choose, and why we often feel fear or resistance around big movesThe hidden role of values and identity in every major business decisionHow better decisions can save your company time, money, and team burnoutSmart ways to use AI as a critical-thinking partner (not just a “yes-bot”) to pressure test your ideasIf you’re a founder, executive, or leader who’s tired of decision fatigue, chaos, or “winging it,” this conversation will give you language, frameworks, and hope.Tune in to learn how to make more aligned, effective decisions—for your business, your team, and your life.About Michael Walker: Michael Walker brings over 30 years of leadership experience in independent and international schools, with a deep understanding of mission-driven organizations. Born in Australia, raised in Mexico City, and having raised his family in Hawaii, he has lived, studied, and worked in three countries and six U.S. states—giving him a broad perspective on culture and organizational dynamics. Michael holds a doctorate in the neuroscience of decision-making and earned his executive coaching certification from the Berkeley Executive Coaching Institute. Through his practice, Dynamic Decisions Coaching, he helps leaders see possibilities, navigate transitions, and make decisions with intention and confidence.Website: https://go.dynamicdecisionscoaching.com/executive-coachingLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-walker-ed-d-5089a870/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat would change if you—and your team—worked from your strengths every day?Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and ICF PCC Jennifer Doyle Vancil, M.Ed. joins Amy to break down CliftonStrengths (formerly StrengthsFinder) and show leaders, founders, and professionals how to align work with what people naturally do best. After 25+ years in higher ed as an advisor and career coach, Jennifer shifted into private practice to help individuals, executives, and teams increase performance, engagement, and retention—by design, not accident.In this episode, you’ll learn:The “Name it, Claim it, Aim it” framework to turn results into real-world actionWhy strengths can be both superpower and snag—and how to spot the differenceThe “dominant-hand” exercise that instantly sells the case for strengths-based rolesThe Bring / Need lens leaders can use to reduce turnover and boost moraleHow to coach and manage to the person, not to your own styleWhy you should be hired for your strengths, not in spite of themAbout Jennifer:Jennifer Doyle Vancil, M.Ed., is a strengths-based coach and trainer based in Northern Colorado, Expert Contributor on Practical Strengths: Career Success, and a Gallup-Certified Strengths Coach and ICF Professional Certified Coach. She works with private career clients, leaders, teams, and other coaches who want to help people work from their strengths. She’s currently writing a book of real-world stories on how people leveraged strengths to make work better.Connect with her at www.communicatingstrengths.com or www.linkedin.com/in/jennifervancilInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever stared at your phone wondering, “What do I even post on Stories today?” — this episode is going to feel like a deep exhale.In this conversation, I’m joined by business coach and mentor Gabrielle Forleo, who helps women make serious money online by refining their marketing, messaging, sales strategies, and relationship with money. After 17 years as a global sales leader, meditation teacher, and keynote speaker at the Chopra Center with Deepak Chopra, Gabrielle took her intuitive nudges seriously and built a thriving online business of her own.Inside the episode, we dive into:Why Instagram Stories is the most powerful sales platform for online business ownersGabrielle’s Stories That Make You Money method (including the Inspirational/Educational Anchor you can post every single morning)How to use embodiment, proof, and celebration to turn silent story views into paying clientsThe truth about curating your feed, muting accounts, and staying authentic on social mediaWhat “following the nudge” actually feels like — and how Gabrielle used intention, intuition, and side hustling to transition out of her 9–5 without panicWhy now is the best time for good-hearted women to have a lot of money (and what they do with it)If you’re ready to use Instagram Stories to sell out your offers — without back-to-back sales calls or performative posting — this episode will change the way you show up online.Connect with Gabrielle here: https://www.gabrielleforleo.com/Follow Gabrielle on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielleforleo/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailTired of feeling stuck, overwhelmed, or trapped in a cycle of overthinking? What if you could make bold, confident decisions without guilt, fear, or second-guessing?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with Jessica Frew, a bold decision coach and author of the new book "Shove Your Shoulds." Jessica shares her powerful personal story and unveils her three-part framework—Be Gentle, Be Humble, Be Bold—designed to help ambitious women reconnect with their intuition.Listen in to learn:The surprising signs that you're stuck in decision paralysis (and how to break free).Why "shoving your shoulds" is the first step toward building a life and business that feel true to you.Actionable steps to stop self-sabotage, release judgment, and start trusting your gut.How to build the muscle of decision-making, even when the choices feel overwhelming.If you’re ready to stop letting outside noise dictate your life and start making choices that feel deeply aligned and empowering, this conversation is for you. Tune in to discover how to move from stuck and tired to bold and unstoppable.Connect with Jessica: https://www.instagram.com/heyjessicafrew/Get the book: https://shoveyourshoulds.com/freebookInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailAre we preparing our children for a world that doesn't even exist yet? As artificial intelligence reshapes our society, parents and educators are facing a critical question: how do we teach the next generation to thrive in the age of AI without sacrificing critical thinking and discernment?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte is joined by Cameron Fugate—a former teacher, parent, and leader in the AI space—for a crucial conversation about the intersection of AI and education. They explore why avoiding AI in schools is a missed opportunity and discuss practical ways to teach children how to use these powerful tools responsibly.Listen in to discover:How to talk to your kids about AI in a way that fosters curiosity and critical thinking.The difference between automating tasks and elevating human potential in business and life.Practical strategies for using AI to assess bias, check facts, and navigate a complex digital world.Why teaching with discernment is key to preparing students for the jobs of the future.If you're a parent, teacher, or business leader curious about the role of AI in shaping the next generation, this is an episode you can't afford to miss. Tune in to learn how we can all be part of building a better, human-first future.Connect with Cameron here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cameron-fugate/Grab her amazing Ai freebie: https://go.magneticlifesystems.com/ai-for-real-life Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if one single pin could bring consistent traffic, leads, and sales to your business — for months or even years — without spending a dime on ads?In this episode of Business Origin Stories, host Amy Schutte sits down with Pinterest strategist Gwendolyn Griffin for a mini masterclass on how to turn Pinterest into a sustainable marketing machine for your business. Gwendolyn breaks down her simple, organic approach that helps small business owners, coaches, and creatives grow without burnout.You’ll learn:✨ How Pinterest actually works as a visual search engine (not social media)✨ The difference between short-term content and long-term discoverability✨ Why one well-designed pin can quietly drive traffic for months or years✨ The step-by-step process Gwendolyn uses to optimize Pinterest profiles for SEO✨ How to find and use keywords that help your ideal clients discover you✨ What consistency really looks like on Pinterest — and how often to post✨ Why Pinterest is still an untapped goldmine for organic leads in 2025If you’ve ever felt frustrated pouring time and money into social media with little return, this conversation will show you a simpler, smarter way to grow your brand.Because when done right, Pinterest doesn’t just give you traffic — it gives you time back.Get Gwendolyn's Pinterest Quick Start Guide Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gwenspinfluence/LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/gwendolyn-griffin-633a71366/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailGrief in leadership is real—and most entrepreneurs don’t get a playbook for it. In this powerful conversation, TEDx speaker and transformational coach Dr. Lynda Reid joins host Amy Schutte on Business Origin Stories to talk about navigating grief, burnout, and big life pivots while still leading teams and companies with clarity.Drawing on neuroscience, Positive Intelligence® (saboteurs vs. sage) and her M.O.R.E. framework (Meaning, Owning, Relationships, Emotions), Dr. Reid shares how to move from the reflexive “yeah, but…” to a confident “hell, yes.” She also offers grounded practices for staying present in hard seasons, supporting grieving colleagues, and rebuilding momentum in your business after loss.You’ll learn:Why grief isn’t “stages”—it’s a lifelong companion and how to work with it, not against itThe most common leadership saboteurs and how to quiet them in real timeA simple tactile exercise to reset your nervous system during tough meetingsHow founders can hold results loosely (and still hit goals)M.O.R.E.: a practical lens for meaning, identity, relationships, and emotional fluency in businessLanguage shifts that change pricing confidence (e.g., “I receive” vs. “my price is”)If you’re an entrepreneur or leader navigating loss, change, or uncertainty, this episode will meet you with honesty—and real tools to keep going.Website: https://drlyndareid.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drlyndareidLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drlyndareid/Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if an AI agent could give you back 10+ hours a week and save six figures this year? In this solo episode, host Amy Schutte shares how she quietly tested and built AI systems for small businesses—and the exact agent that’s projected to save a client $100,000+ in 12 months. You’ll hear Amy’s two strongest (and slightly spicy) opinions about AI, why it must be handled with care, and how to make your business fertile and sustainable—not burned out.Amy also reveals a striking response from ChatGPT to the question, “How do humans survive when AI takes over?”Spoiler: the win isn’t man vs. machine—it’s human + machine.You’ll learn:What AI agents can actually do for small businesses (with real examples)How to reclaim time by automating admin, content, and customer serviceThe Fertile Business lens: systems that nourish your brand (not drain it)The #1 mindset shift for pricing and value when using AI in your workflowGuardrails and ethics: how to adopt AI without losing your brand’s soulMini use cases: a bakery freeing hours from captions & inbox, a realtor closing more deals with instant follow-ups, and a coach turning expertise into a consistent content flywheel.If you’re ready to stop drowning in busywork and start building a business that’s alive—this episode is your roadmap.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the way you show up in your clothes could transform how you lead, work, and live?In this episode, I sit down with stylist and coach Ellie Steinbrink, who shares her journey from 20 years in marketing to building a business rooted in authenticity and style. After losing her job during the pandemic,Ellie leaned into her lifelong passion and discovered that style can be a doorway into self trust, empowerment, and the freedom to break the rules.We talk about: 👗 How Ellie’s career pivot revealed a deeper calling around style and authenticity 👗 The role meditation played in giving her clarity and courage 👗 Why imposter syndrome shows up when we follow a new path, and how to work through it 👗 Practical ways to rewrite the “rules” we’ve absorbed about how women should dress 👗 How self trust in style translates into leadership, confidence, and everyday lifeIf you’ve ever felt stuck in old narratives about what you should wear or who you should be, this episode will remind you that standing out is the goal — not fitting in.---Connect with Ellie:elliesteinbrink.comInstagram: @style.decodedLinkedIn: @elliesteinbrinkOr grab a copy of Ellie's Style Mindset Reset to find out what you may need to let go of in order to make an incredible and lasting style transformation.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if showing up on video didn’t have to feel overwhelming — and could actually become the easiest way to grow your brand?In this episode, I’m joined by Ed Troxell, personal brand coach and video strategist, who helps entrepreneurs stand out online without getting lost in the tech, the hustle, or the self-doubt. Ed shares how he went from dreading video to launching his own daily talk show, and how that experience shaped the simple system he now teaches his clients.We talk about: 🎥 Why video is the fastest path to building trust and visibility 🎥 The most common excuses holding people back and how to move past them 🎥 Ed’s “Just 15” method for showing up consistently without burning out 🎥 How to reframe your self-talk so you actually enjoy hitting record 🎥 Real client results (including doubling business in just six months)Whether you’re a realtor, coach, or creative entrepreneur, this conversation will help you ditch the perfectionism, show up as yourself, and finally put video to work in your business.---Connect with Ed:edtroxell.comInstagram: @edtroxellcreativeigLinkedIn: @edtroxell👉🏻 And don't forget to grab Ed's Free Visibility Plan — the first step to marketing your business in just 15 minutes a day.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the key to growing your business wasn’t just marketing harder, but learning how to share your story with credibility and trust?In this episode, I’m joined by Jennifer Kaplan, founder of Evolve PR and Marketing and one of the top voices in the PR world today. Over the past 20 years, Jennifer has built the largest PR firm in Arizona, serving more than 100 clients across industries — and she knows what it takes to create visibility that actually moves the needle.We dive into Jennifer’s journey from starting her company at age 30 to scaling a thriving agency, and she shares powerful insights every entrepreneur can use to strengthen their reputation and brand presence.You’ll hear: ✨ Why PR, branding, and marketing are different, and why you need all three ✨ The surprising power of earned media (and how to leverage it long after it airs) ✨ How to know when your business is ready for PR ✨ Creative ways to use awards, rankings, and recognition to build credibility ✨ What business owners need to understand about reputation in a world where impressions matter more than everWhether you’re brand new to PR or considering your next big visibility move, this conversation will help you think differently about how to show up, share your story, and build lasting trust with your audience.---Connect with Jennifer:www.evolveprandmarketing.comInstagram: @evolveprandmarketingLinkedIn: @jennifer-kaplan-b331948Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if building a business didn’t mean climbing the corporate ladder, but creating one that actually fits your life as a mom?In this special throwback episode, I’m joined by Crystalee Beck — mom of four, serial entrepreneur, and founder of The Mama Ladder and Comma Copywriters. Crystalee has been paving the way for women at the intersection of motherhood and entrepreneurship, showing us what it looks like to grow thriving companies while honoring our values, families, and energy.Her wisdom in this conversation sparked more emails and DMs from listeners than any other episode I’ve recorded — and for good reason. Crystalee is transparent, practical, and deeply inspiring.We talk about:✨ How she built two businesses from scratch while raising little ones✨ The hard but powerful decision to pause her passion project during COVID✨ What it looks like to design a “life first” business and team culture✨ Why protecting your time and energy is the most sustainable growth strategy✨ The story behind The High Five Grant for Moms and how you can applyWhether you’re just starting your business with babies at home or you’re ready to scale with intention, this conversation will encourage you to step into your own version of success.🎧 Listen in — and if you’re a mom with a business who’s made at least $10K in revenue, apply for the High Five Grant at https://themamaladder.com/grant. Applications are open through September 30, 2025!Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailLeadership gets talked about in terms of strategy and performance, but the truth is, it always comes back to people. That’s the heartbeat of my conversation today with Rick Harris.Rick is the CEO of the Association of Proposal Management Professionals (APMP), a 30+ year nonprofit leader, and a former radio DJ with an incredible story to share. What I love most about Rick is how he leads with connection to create teams and communities that thrive because relationships come first.In this episode, we talk about: Rick’s surprising leap from radio into association leadershipWhy authentic conversations matter more than endless emails and Slack messagesHow trust, transparency, and equal pay build retention and loyaltyPractical networking tips you can use whether you’re leading a team or growing your businessRick reminds us that personal connection fuels both healthy culture and sustainable business at the same time.If you’re ready for a fresh perspective on leadership, relationships, and what it really takes to build something that lasts, this conversation will encourage you and give you plenty to put into practice.---Connect with Rick:Website: http://www.apmp.orgLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/apmpInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to go from bootstrapping a beauty business in your spare bedroom… to running two growing brands and leading a team of 60?This week, I’m joined by Jen Beyers — founder of Evrmore Extensions and co-CEO of Rare Bird Beauties, a Chicago-based bridal hair and makeup agency. Jen started out doing hair for friends on the weekend and built her career one client (and one apartment salon) at a time.Now, she’s known for both her artistry and her systems. Her companies serve hundreds of clients each year, and she’s carved out a niche that didn’t exist before by creating high-quality, color-matched extensions that solve a major pain point for stylists and brides alike.Inside the episode, we talk about:How Jen spotted a gap in the market and turned it into a thriving product lineWhat it really looks like to run two companies (with 60 contractors and five kids)Building a business with your romantic partner, and keeping work and life separate when things get hardThe repair process that saved her co-founder relationshipHow radical candor and clear roles keep their team aligned and their vision strongWhy business valuation matters - and what she learned the hard wayThis one is full of gold for anyone navigating business partnerships, building something from scratch, or leading while holding a lot. Jen is smart, grounded, and generous, and this conversation will leave you thinking about how to grow with intention, not urgency.---Connect with Jen:evrmoreextensions.comInstagram: @evrmoreextensionsInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the thing you do for fun held the key to a more aligned and sustainable business?This week, I’m joined by Michelle Pecak: pricing expert, operations strategist, and founder of My Vibe, a business community built on healing, connection, and reciprocity. After 25 years in supply chain and pricing for billion-dollar companies, Michelle took a leap. She walked away from the boardroom to build something that didn’t just pay the bills, but actually lit her up.In this episode, we talk about:How Michelle rebranded “quantum operations” to make pricing feel powerful againThe moment she realized she was more than a cog in the corporate wheelWhy your joy doesn’t have to be your job, but it can be your safety netWhat it means to build reciprocal business communities that nourish everyone involvedHow she blends deep operational knowledge with healing, Human Design, and intuitionMichelle’s story is a reminder that you don’t have to abandon what you’re good at to build something new. And sometimes the most secure move isn’t the most traditional one — it’s the one that lets you bring your full self to the table.---Connect with Michelle:myvibecommunity.comInstagram: @michellepecakLinkedIn: @michelle-pecakInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhen life feels too comfortable, growth can feel unnatural.In this solo episode, I’m sharing what’s been on my mind lately: how convenience shapes the way we live, work, and lead — and what we might be missing when everything is designed to make things easier.I’m not talking about burnout or over-efforting. I’m talking about the quiet spaces where growth gets stalled, simply because it’s unfamiliar. When we’re used to optimized routines, even small shifts can feel like massive disruptions. But that discomfort? It matters. And it’s often where something new is trying to take root.**Inside this episode, I talk about:**- Why transformation often feels worse before it feels better- The hidden cost of outsourcing the “hard parts” of life- A moment when expert advice didn’t align with my truth and what I did instead- The 4Rs framework I use to navigate micro-transformations (especially in messy seasons)- How to move when every part of you wants to freezeThis one’s a gentle gut check, and a reminder that sometimes the most powerful thing you can do is choose discomfort on purpose.Come say hi on Instagram @amyschutte_. If you're listening in real time, I’m wandering through Italy, gelato in hand, and sharing the behind-the-scenes as I go.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if your most ordinary, slice-of-life moments were actually the key to becoming a more magnetic storyteller?This week I’m joined by Seth Donlin, storytelling coach, podcast guesting expert, and the kind of person who can turn a trip to the grocery store into a masterclass on authenticity. Seth teaches entrepreneurs how to turn everyday experiences into engaging narratives that build trust, connect with audiences, and convert.He’s also one of the most thoughtful voices I’ve met when it comes to story strategy. Not just how to tell a story, but how to recognize it, refine it, and repurpose it so it lands.Inside the episode, we talk about:🎙 Why “relatable” stories often perform better than dramatic ones 🎙 The difference between authenticity, transparency, and oversharing 🎙 How Seth uses a “story seed” journal to capture and organize moments worth telling 🎙 What to do when you don’t think you have any good stories to share 🎙 The exact process he teaches for connecting everyday stories to business lessons (plus how AI can help)We also explore how podcast guesting builds trust faster than almost any other marketing strategy and why preparation is the secret to sounding unscripted.If you’ve ever wondered what makes a story powerful or want to be the kind of guest people actually remember, this one’s for you.---Connect with Seth:awenaf.comInstagram: @seth.donlinLinkedIn: @sethdonlinInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailThis week, I’m joined by Katie Lantukh — messaging strategist, copywriting genius, and one of the sharpest, most thoughtful voices I know when it comes to saying the thing… without saying it like everyone else.Katie’s one of the voices I trust most when it comes to brand messaging. She helps founders find the right words, and more importantly, the right platforms to communicate what they do in a way that feels aligned, strategic, and clear.In this episode, we talk about:What “messaging” actually means (and why so many people misunderstand it)Why LinkedIn has become a powerful brand-building toolHow to use AI to generate better content ideas without sounding roboticKatie’s favorite way to build trust on LinkedIn (even if you never send a cold DM)What she’s learned from posting consistently for over a year and how it changed her website, her strategy, and her referral networkWe also get into the difference between thought leadership and sales copy, the surprising power of lurkers, and what it really looks like to market your business in a way that matches your energy.Plus: Katie shares the unexpected way her business grew alongside her daughter — and why her origin story starts with pie.---Connect with Katie:murphy.marketingLinkedIn: @katielantukhInstagram: @KatieLantukhOr check out these on-demand resources and live LinkedIn workshopsInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat does it take to build a creative business that actually feels like you?This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Jenny Losee, a luxury, documentary-style wedding and brand photographer whose work is both stunning and soulful. She’s photographed celebrity weddings, been featured in Vogue and People Magazine, and was recently named one of the top 30 wedding photographers in the U.S.But what I love most about Jenny isn’t just her eye — it’s the intentional, intuitive way she moves through the world. She’s built a business that honors her creativity, energy, and the season she’s in. And she’s done it all without rushing the process or compromising what matters most.Inside the episode, we talk about:📸 The leap from side hustle to full-time creative📸 How Jenny helps clients feel grounded and seen (not just styled) in front of the camera📸 What it’s like to be a Reflector in Human Design, and why honoring her energy changed everything📸 The mindset shifts, systems, and rituals that support her creativity📸 Letting go of over-efforting and trusting slower seasons📸 What it really means to build a business around intuition and joyThis conversation is full of perspective shifts, and it’s also just really fun! Jenny brings so much depth, honesty, and laughter. I know you’re going to love this one.---Connect with Jenny:jennylosee.comInstagram: @Jennylosee_Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailHow do you create more income, impact, and integrity without burning out or selling yourself short?In this solo episode, I’m breaking down why so many service-based entrepreneurs find themselves overworked and undervalued, and what shifts when you build a high-ticket offer that truly reflects your skill, experience, and depth of transformation.A true high-ticket offer goes far beyond just adding a zero to your price tag. It asks you to step fully into the identity of a leader who holds clear boundaries, delivers real results, and attracts clients ready to meet you at your highest level.Inside the episode, I share:✨ What a high-ticket offer really is (and why it’s not just about the number)✨ The sneaky fears and mindset traps that keep you stuck in low-paying work✨ How to stop over-delivering and start curating an exquisite client experience✨ My 3-part framework for building a high-ticket offer that aligns with your gifts✨ The identity work that changes everything + the messaging shifts that help you sell transformation, not deliverablesIf you’re ready to protect your capacity, elevate your revenue per client, and design a business that nourishes both you and your clients, this episode will give you the clarity (and permission) to raise your standard.If this sparked something for you, come say hi — send me a DM on Instagram: @amyshutte_ with the word high ticket, or connect with me at hudsonanco.co. Let’s build the offer that matches who you’re becoming.Instagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat do opera and HR have in common?According to Vicky Brown, more than you'd think.In this week's conversation, I sit down with the founder of Idomeneo Enterprises to talk about what it really takes to build a business that supports both your people and your vision. Vicky has been running her HR company for nearly 25 years, but her path here wasn’t linear, which is exactly what makes her story so powerful.We talk about:How an opera singer became one of the most trusted HR voices in small businessWhat most entrepreneurs get completely wrong when it comes to hiring and complianceWhy misclassifying contractors could cost you big (especially if you're in California)The mindset shift required to lead a growing teamHow to attract high-performing employees in a market that values transparency and purposeWhy your vision is your most underutilized leadership tool, and how to actually use itWhether you’re hiring your first team member or leading a team of twenty, this episode is full of both practical guidance and permission to lead in a more grounded, human way.Plus: Vicky shares why creative CEOs need space for unstructured thinking, and why that’s not wasted time: it’s essential strategy.✨ Listen in, and don’t forget to grab Vicky’s free HR resource bundle for business owners at vickybrownhr.com/podcastgiftYou can also connect with Vicky at:idomeneoinc.comInstagram: @leadersjourneytv_vickybrownLinkedIn: @vicky-brown-idomeneo-hrInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailHow do you build a fulfilling life when your calendar is already overflowing?This week I’m joined by Corina Sanchez, systems strategist, coach, and founder of Moms Who Leverage, where she helps working moms move out of survival mode and into something more sustainable (and actually joyful).Corina brings the kind of perspective shift we all need: a reminder that productivity isn’t the goal — capacity is. We talk about what it really takes to create more space in your life when the plates just keep spinning, and why the systems that support you don’t need to feel rigid, overwhelming, or like one more thing to manage.Inside the episode, we talk about:✨ The sneaky belief that says joy has to be earned, and how Corina unhooked from it✨ How her “Me, We, They” method helps you delegate without guilt✨ Systems that actually support your values (not just your calendar)✨ Real-life ways she’s structured her week around meals, movement, and meaningful time✨ What changed when her husband stopped resisting systems and started seeing the upside✨ How she’s helping women reclaim capacity in work and motherhoodIf your brain is tired, your list is long, and you keep wondering how everyone else is managing dinner, this one’s for you. Corina’s work is rooted, clear-eyed, and refreshingly generous — and this conversation will leave you feeling resourced in the best way.---Connect with Corina:momswholeverage.comInstagram: @momswholeverage LinkedIn: @corinaasanchezOr grab a copy of her Delegation Playbook for Working MomsInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if healing was actually about returning to what’s true?This week on the podcast, I’m joined by Christy Nault: root cause health practitioner, founder of Microflow, and someone whose story will shift the way you think about your body, your business, and your nervous system.After years of chronic illness and burnout, Christy went on a deep journey of healing that included microdosing, trauma work, and a complete reinvention of how she approaches wellness, leadership, and life itself.We talk about:How trauma, stress, and unprocessed grief show up in the body (especially for high-achieving women)What “being resourced” actually looks and feels like—and why it matters more than productivityThe most common reasons perimenopause feels so overwhelming (and what to do about it)Why microdosing is not a trend, but a trauma-informed tool for reconnectionHow to build a business that doesn’t dysregulate your systemChristy also shares the surprising truth about what keeps so many women from fully healing, and how her own rock bottom helped her come home to herself.If you’re craving a more sustainable way to do life, work, and wellness, this one’s for you.---Connect with Christy:christynault.comInstagram: @itschristynaultJoin The Hormone Glow UpVisit the MicroFlow shopInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailWhat if the secret to selling more wasn’t a better pitch — but a better story?In this solo episode, I’m sharing something I’ve never broken down this clearly before: the three types of stories I use to build trust, sell with confidence, and unlock the next level in my business.You’ll hear how a delayed flight and a middle seat led to an unexpected (and ideal) client — and why she said yes before ever seeing my website. I’ll walk you through the exact storytelling framework I used in that moment, and how you can start building your own story bank today.We’re talking about:The founder story that builds connection and credibilityThe problem story that creates resonance and demandThe transformation story that lets your client see themselves in the “after”If you’re tired of selling strategies that feel forced or complicated, this episode will show you a simpler, more human way forward that's rooted in real connection.✨ Want my free guide, The 8 Origin Stories Every Brand Needs? Download it at: hudsonandco.coInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co

Send us Fan MailIf you’ve ever felt frustrated by scam texts, robocalls, or shady debt collectors, this episode is going to blow your mind (in the best way).I’m joined by Chris Roberts, a nationally recognized class action attorney who helps everyday consumers fight back (and sometimes get paid in the process). Chris has taken on predatory companies of all kinds, from illegal telemarketers to deceptive lenders, and he’s here to share how you can protect yourself using little-known consumer laws.In this conversation, we dive into:Why one robocall could be worth up to $500, and what to do if you get dozensWhat actually works to stop spam calls and texts (hint: it’s not complaining to the FTC)The legal mistake businesses make with SMS marketing that could cost them bigChris’s personal journey from representing debt collectors to holding them accountableThis one is packed with powerful, actionable info — especially if you’re someone who wants to be an empowered consumer and an ethical business owner.Chris was generous, sharp, and fascinating to talk to. I think you’re going to walk away from this one with a whole new way of looking at those “annoying” calls and what they could really mean.---Connect with Chris:www.classactionguru.comTikTok: @‌classactionlawyerInstagram: @theclassactionlawyerLinkedIn: @classactionlawInstagram: @amyschutte_Work with us: www.hudsonandco.co