Get Off The Treadmill Podcast

Most business owners believe their job is to manage people. But what if that belief is exactly what’s keeping them stuck on the treadmill? In this episode of Get Off The Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Henry McCrory to challenge one of the most ingrained habits in business: management. Together, they unpack why managing people creates dependency instead of ownership—and how shifting to a participation-based model transforms your team from employees into engaged contributors who think, decide, and act like owners. Henry shares real-world insights on what happens when you stop trying to control outcomes and start building an environment where people are trusted, accountable, and aligned around a clear mission. This conversation brings core 3to5 Club principles to life, showing how moving away from management and toward ownership is the key to building a business that produces both time and money. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why managing people keeps you stuck on the treadmill The difference between employees and owners How to create an environment where people choose to engage Why control limits growth, and trust unlocks it The role of mission, clarity, and expectations in building ownership How participation-age thinking transforms your business If you’re tired of being the one who has to push, remind, and oversee everything, this episode will challenge your assumptions and show you a better way to lead. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to stop managing people, and start building a business of owners. ----more---- About Henry McCrory Henry McCrory is the business development lead at Creative 3 and the guy who turns conversations into clients. With years of experience in sales, partnerships, and commercial growth, he focuses on building relationships, spotting opportunities, and making sure the right deals get done. Known for being direct, likeable, and relentless about doing things properly—not just quickly—Henry works closely with brands to understand what they really need, then helps shape the offer, pitch, and plan to drive revenue. If you’ve ever wondered how great marketing becomes real business, Henry is the bridge.

Most businesses say they have a mission. But very few actually run on it. In this episode of Get Off The Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman unpacks what it really means to become a mission-centered organization and why this shift is essential if you want to build a business that runs without you. Because if the mission isn’t the boss… then you are. And that’s what keeps you stuck on the treadmill. Chuck explains how businesses operating in the Participation Age replace personality-driven leadership and top-down control with something far more powerful: a clear, lived mission that drives every decision, behavior, and outcome. This isn’t about writing a mission statement and putting it on the wall. It’s about building a business where the mission becomes the filter for everything, so your team can think, decide, and act without waiting on you. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most mission statements fail to impact the business What it actually means to be mission-centered (not just mission-driven) How a clear mission helps you get off the treadmill Why the mission, not the owner, should be the boss How mission alignment creates clarity, consistency, and accountability The role of mission in building a Participation Age organization If you’re tired of being the bottleneck in your business and ready to build something that runs on purpose, not personality, this episode lays the foundation. 🎧 Listen now and start building a business where the mission leads and you’re no longer the one holding everything together.

What does it really mean to own a business, not just run one? In this episode of Get Off The Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Andrew Rowland to explore the mindset and systems required to move from operator to true business owner. Andrew shares how his journey, from operations management to launching and growing his own home care company, shifted when he stopped focusing on transactions and started building a business rooted in relationships, trust, and long-term thinking. This conversation brings key 3to5 Club principles to life, showing how business owners can step off the treadmill by building systems, leveraging partnerships, and creating a company that grows beyond their daily involvement. In this episode, you’ll learn: The difference between running a business and truly owning one Why relationship-first thinking drives sustainable growth How to move from day-to-day operator to long-term owner The role of systems and partnerships in scaling your business Why chasing transactions keeps you stuck on the treadmill How to build a business that grows without constant oversight If you’re ready to stop doing everything yourself and start building a business that works for you, not because of you, this episode will give you a practical and powerful perspective shift. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to own your business and grow it with purpose. 👤 About Andrew Rowland Andrew Rowland is a Minnesota-based entrepreneur and founder in the home care industry. After building a strong career in operations management, he launched his own company in 2018 to make a meaningful impact in his community. Through strategic partnerships and a successful merger, he’s grown his business by focusing on relationships over transactions. A husband, father of four, and community-minded leader, Andrew is passionate about creating growth—for his business, his clients, and the people around him. 📌 Connect with Andrew: 🌐 promisecareinc.com 📧 [email protected] 📺 New here? Catch Andrew’s first episode here: Episode #58: How To Do Business Development the Right Way

“Empowerment” has become one of the most overused and misunderstood words in business. In this episode of Get Off The Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman challenges the idea that leaders can give power to people. Instead, he makes a compelling case that true ownership doesn’t come from empowerment, it comes from engagement. Because here’s the reality: You can’t empower people. You can only create an environment where they choose to engage. Chuck breaks down why traditional management models built on control, hierarchy, and permission, actually prevent people from thinking, deciding, and acting like owners. And he explains how shifting to a participation-based operating system unlocks initiative, accountability, and creativity at every level of the business. If you want a team that acts like owners instead of employees, it starts by rethinking your role as a leader and the system you’ve built around them. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why empowerment is often a disguised form of control The critical difference between empowered people and engaged people How traditional management keeps people dependent instead of responsible What it takes to create true ownership inside your business Why engagement, not authority, drives long-term performance How participation-age thinking helps you get off the treadmill If you’re tired of trying to “motivate” people and ready to build a business where people naturally take initiative, this episode will challenge your assumptions and give you a better way forward. 🎧 Listen now and discover why engagement, not empowerment, is the real key to building a business that runs without you.

In this episode of Get Off The Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman sits down with returning guest Cassie Morris to challenge one of the biggest myths in business—that you need the perfect plan before you take action. Instead, they unpack why waiting for clarity keeps you stuck on the treadmill… and how creating a bad plan can actually be the fastest way to build momentum, gain clarity, and move toward your Business Maturity Date. Cassie shares her real-world experience building multiple businesses and how embracing imperfect action helped her simplify decisions, reduce overwhelm, and focus on what actually matters. Together, they explore what it looks like to stop overthinking, start executing, and build a business that produces both time and money. Here’s what you’ll learn in this episode: ✅ Why “perfect planning” keeps business owners stuck ✅ How bad plans create clarity faster than good intentions ✅ The role of action in getting off the treadmill ✅ How to simplify decision-making in your business ✅ Why momentum—not perfection—is the real goal ✅ How to align your actions with your Business Maturity Date If you’ve been waiting for the “right” plan before making your next move, this episode will help you let go of perfection—and start building a business that actually works for you. 🎧 Listen now and take the first imperfect step forward. 👤 About Cassie Morris Cassie Morris is an entrepreneur based in Denver, CO, and the founder of Clover Communications and Strategy, where she helps business owners streamline operations and improve processes. She’s also the owner of Dilly Dally Donut Bar in Bozeman, MT—a business rooted in authenticity, community, and connection. 🔗 Connect with Cassie: 🌐 clovercommunicationsandstrategy.com 🍩 dillydallydonutbar.com 📺 New here? Catch Cassie’s first episode: Episode #56: How Lifetime Goals Shape Your Business

Most businesses don’t have a people problem. They don’t have a strategy problem. They don’t even have a motivation problem. They have an operating system problem. In this episode of the Get Off The Treadmill Podcast, Chuck challenges the common instinct to fix broken businesses with surface-level solutions, new incentives, new org charts, new software, new accountability systems, without addressing the deeper issue underneath. Because when your foundational operating system is flawed, adding improvements is just putting lipstick on a pig. Chuck unpacks why so many organizations stay stuck in the Industrial Age model of control, management, and hierarchy, and what it actually takes to transform the core system so people can think, decide, and create value at every level. If you’ve ever felt like you’re working harder but not getting healthier as a business, this episode will help you diagnose the real issue. In this episode, you’ll discover: Why most “fixes” don’t fix anything The difference between optimizing a bad system and transforming it How outdated management models keep people disengaged What a healthy operating system actually looks like Why real transformation starts at the foundation—not the surface If you’re serious about getting off the treadmill, stop tweaking tactics and start transforming the system that drives everything. 🎧 Listen now and learn why you don’t need more polish,  you need a new operating system.

Most business owners stay stuck on the treadmill because they treat every customer the same—pitching harder instead of listening better. In this episode, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Valerie Reid, CEO and Founder of Simple Cremation USA, to break down why understanding how your customer thinks matters more than what you’re selling. Drawing from her experience advising Fortune 100 companies at Deloitte and scaling a national B2B/B2C platform, Valerie shares how slowing down, asking better questions, and abandoning the “dog and pony show” helps business owners build trust, close deals, and make more money in less time. You’ll learn: Why no two customers buy for the same reason The two questions that instantly clarify what matters to a buyer How listening replaces selling in relationship-based growth When saying “this isn’t a fit” actually strengthens your business How 3to5 thinking helps you get off the treadmill and serve better If you’re tired of chasing prospects and ready to build a business around trust, clarity, and real relationships, this episode will change how you approach sales forever. 🎧 Listen now and learn how to stop selling and start serving. ----more---- 👤 About Valerie Reid Valerie Reid is a strategic, results-driven leader with deep experience in business growth, team leadership, and innovation. After spending more than a decade at Deloitte advising Fortune 100 and 500 companies, she founded Simple Cremation USA, a national online platform connecting families with trusted funeral homes. Valerie is passionate about building value, scaling ideas that matter, and helping businesses serve people better. 🔁 Also listen to Valerie’s first appearance on the podcast: Episode 54 – How We Can Stop Hunting Trees by Finding Lumberjacks

The industrial-age workplace is breaking down and that’s good news. In this episode, Chuck Blakeman introduces the concept of the Participation Age, a new way of working that replaces top-down control with trust, ownership, and shared responsibility. It’s about rehumanizing the workplace by giving everybody their brain back. This episode kicks off a series exploring what it really takes to build a business where people fully participate, decisions are made where the work happens, and leaders stop managing people and start leading adults. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the Participation Age is and why it’s replacing the industrial-age factory system The two defining hallmarks of participation-age companies: participation and sharing Why imposed hierarchy and traditional management hold businesses back The difference between employees and stakeholders and why language matters How distributed decision-making leads to better, faster results Why mission becomes the boss in modern organizations How principles outperform policies, bureaucracy, and rulebooks If you’re tired of running your business or your career inside a system that treats people like replaceable parts, this episode will challenge everything you’ve been taught about work. 🎧 Listen now and discover how participation-age thinking helps you get off the treadmill and build work that actually works for humans. ----more---- 🔗 Explore More: 🎥 Watch Chuck’s TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewA2BqbWhUQ 📘 Get the book — Rehumanizing the Workplace: Giving Everybody Their Brain Back: https://www.amazon.com/Rehumanizing-Workplace-Giving-Everybody-Their/dp/1734486902

Most business owners avoid hiring for one simple reason: They don’t want to manage people. In this episode, Chuck sits down with Brandon Rains to challenge that assumption and show why the right hiring process eliminates the need for management altogether. Brandon shares how he built a thriving estate planning firm with a high-performing team by hiring for culture, beliefs, and talent before skills and experience. Drawing from his years inside the 3to5 Club and real-world hiring success, this conversation reframes hiring as a long-term investment instead of a risky gamble. In this episode, you’ll learn: Why most hiring fails before the first interview even happens How hiring for culture first prevents future management headaches The difference between people who want a job and people who want meaningful work Why resumes and experience often hide the most important indicators How a multi-step hiring process causes the wrong candidates to self-select out Why starting with trust, not control, changes everything If you’re tired of micromanaging, constantly fixing mistakes, or feeling trapped by your team, this episode will help you rethink hiring from the ground up and build a business that runs on ownership instead of oversight. ----more---- 👤 About Brandon Rains Brandon Rains is an estate planning attorney who founded his firm in 2016 and has grown it to serve hundreds of clients with a team of attorneys and staff. A longtime member of the 3to5 Club, Brandon focuses on helping families pass on not just financial wealth, but also their stories and values, so inheritances become true blessings for future generations. 📧 Email: [email protected]

What if the fastest way to improve productivity, profit, and retention wasn’t tighter control—but giving people their time back? In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman challenges the outdated belief that managing time equals managing performance. Drawing from real-world business examples and decades of leadership experience, Chuck explains why autonomy, trust, and outcome-based leadership consistently outperform micromanagement and rigid schedules. This episode reframes time as one of the most powerful (and misunderstood) leadership tools—and shows how freeing people from unnecessary control unlocks better results for everyone. In this episode, Chuck explores: Why managing time is a losing strategy for modern businesses How focusing on outcomes—not hours—drives higher performance The hidden cost of supervision, micromanagement, and “seat time” Why trust is a measurable business advantage, not a soft skill How giving people autonomy increases engagement, retention, and ownership What leaders must let go of to build a truly scalable business If you want people who act like owners instead of employees and a business that grows without burning everyone out this episode will challenge how you think about time, leadership, and results. 🎧 Listen now and discover why giving people their time back may be the smartest business decision you make.

What does it really take to start and grow a business when you don’t have all the answers? In this energizing conversation, Chuck sits down with Jessica Agopian, founder of 33 Services & Consulting and multi-center Sylvan Learning franchise owner, along with 3to5 Club facilitator Mark Bellestri, to unpack what it means to lead with action instead of anxiety. Jessica shares how she went from employee to owner, opened her first Sylvan center, expanded to a second location, and continues to scale, all without waiting for perfect conditions. The discussion dives into why momentum matters more than mastery, how systems beat hustle, and why most of business success has far less to do with industry expertise than people think. Together, Chuck, Jessica, and Mark explore the mindset shift that separates stalled business owners from builders who keep moving forward, especially when things feel uncertain, messy, or unfinished. If you’ve ever felt stuck waiting to be “ready,” this episode will challenge that thinking and remind you why movement creates clarity, confidence, and growth. In this episode, you’ll hear: Why you don’t need everything figured out before you start The difference between being a craftsperson and being a business owner How systems, culture, and leadership drive scalable growth Why execution beats perfection every time How confidence is built after action—not before ----more---- About Jessica Agopian Jessica Agopian is the founder of 33 Services & Consulting and a multi-center Sylvan Learning franchise owner. Known for culture-driven growth, community engagement, and connection-based sales, she helps teams thrive while building businesses that scale through systems, not hustle. Jessica is passionate about intentional leadership, strong processes, and creating organizations that change lives. Connect with Jessica: [email protected]

Gratitude may not sound like a business strategy, but science says otherwise. In this thought-provoking solo episode, Chuck Blakeman takes a purposeful left turn to explore how gratitude directly impacts business performance, leadership effectiveness, and long-term success. Backed by neuroscience and real-world data, Chuck breaks down why emotional intelligence (EQ), not IQ or technical skill, is the true predictor of business success, and how gratitude is one of the fastest ways to grow it. You’ll learn why: 90% of top performers have high EQ—not high IQ EQ drives over half of job performance and long-term success Gratitude practices measurably improve health, resilience, joy, and income But here’s the twist: Chuck explains why traditional gratitude lists don’t actually make us more grateful—and what does work instead. This episode introduces a powerful, neuroscience-backed gratitude practice focused on receiving gratitude, not just expressing it. Chuck walks you through a simple, repeatable method that can be done in just a few minutes a week and can literally reduce stress, inflammation, threat detection, and burnout while increasing clarity, meaning, and joy. 🎧 Tune in and discover why gratitude isn’t “soft” it’s a serious competitive advantage.

Most business owners don’t lose sales because of pricing, competition, or skill, they lose them because they don’t follow up. In this powerful and energizing episode, Chuck reconnects with Lynn Whitbeck, CEO of Petite2Queen, host of Claim Your Career Crown, and widely known as the Queen of Joyful Sales, to unpack the real reason follow-up fails and how you can fix it starting today. Lynn shares the staggering truth: 80% of all sales are made by the 20% of people who follow up. If you’re not in that 20%, you’re giving business to someone else. Together, Chuck and Lynn dive into: How follow-up builds real relationships (not pressure) The mindset traps that stop people from reaching out What to do when you think “it’s been too long” How to deliver value so you never sound pushy Lynn’s simple, proven follow-up system that actually gets responses Creative follow-up touches that make you stand out (yes… even fax!) Why “no” usually means “not right now” — and how to stay top of mind Chuck and Lynn also share real-life stories of long-term follow-up that turned into major opportunities, reminding us why consistency, recency, and frequency win in sales every time. If you’ve ever felt awkward, inconsistent, or unsure about following up, this episode gives you a practical, joyful roadmap to do it well and close more clients by genuinely serving them. Listen now and become part of the 20% who actually win the business. Get Lynn’s Free Resource: Download her Get More Clients Checklist at petite2queen.com/checklist  New here? Catch Lynn’s first appearance on the podcast: Making Sales Joyful — scroll back and listen!

Why do so many business owners work harder and harder… yet never seem to get ahead? In this solo episode, Chuck breaks down one of the most powerful mindset shifts in entrepreneurship: intending to make more money in less time. Drawing from decades of experience building 13 businesses on four continents, Chuck explains why most owners stay trapped on the treadmill and how a single shift in intention can change everything. This is not theory. It’s a simple, actionable framework you can apply today. Inside this episode, you’ll discover: ✅ Why you get what you intend—not what you hope for ✅ The three essential resources every entrepreneur must manage: time, money, and energy ✅ Why “making money” is not a goal (and what to focus on instead) ✅ How to design a business that produces both income and freedom ✅ The mindset shift Chuck used to reclaim two days a week, a week each month, and a month each year ✅ How clarity, intentionality, and a future-focused plan help you finally “get a life” through your business Chuck also shares the key question every entrepreneur must ask: “What do I actually want from my business?” And he walks you step by step through defining your ideal lifestyle, reversing it into a practical plan, and taking the next one simple action to get there. If you're tired of running faster just to stay in place, this episode will give you the clarity and the permission you need to build a business that works for you, not the other way around.

Why does business development feel so exhausting for so many business owners? Because most of us were taught to do it the wrong way. In this episode, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Andrew Rowland to unpack what real business development actually looks like and why it has nothing to do with chasing strangers, pitching at networking events, or collecting business cards you’ll never use. Andrew shares his journey from hustling alone (and burning out) to building a business that grows through relationships, community, and intentional connections. He explains how just a handful of the right people, your “multipliers”, can create more business growth than years of traditional sales tactics. Together, Chuck and Andrew dive into: ✅ Why “stabbing people with business cards” never creates real opportunities ✅ The mindset shift from transactions to transformational relationships ✅ How three to five genuine connections can become your strongest business pipeline ✅ Why you get what you intend and how to set intentions that attract the right clients ✅ How 3to5 Club helped Andrew escape isolation and build a business he actually loves ✅ Why relational business development works for introverts, extroverts, and everyone in between If you're tired of random hope marketing and want a business development system based on trust, generosity, and consistency, this episode will show you what’s possible. 💡 Get ready to rethink how you grow your business—one real relationship at a time. ----more---- About Andrew Rowland Andrew Rowland is a Minnesota-based entrepreneur and founder in the home care industry. After building a strong career in operations management, he launched his own company in 2018 to make a meaningful impact in his community. Through strategic partnerships and a successful merger, he’s grown his business by focusing on relationships over transactions. A husband, father of four, and community-minded leader, Andrew is passionate about creating growth—for his business, his clients, and the people around him. Contact Andrew: 🌐 promisecareinc.com 📧 [email protected]

What if you could stop chasing clients and start attracting them instead? In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman breaks down The Lumberjack Buying System, a proven four-stage process that replaces traditional selling with relationship building. Used by thousands of business owners worldwide, this system helps you leave behind cold calls, endless networking, and transactional sales for something far more effective: relational business development that actually works. Chuck explains why the old “sales treadmill” keeps most small business owners stuck and how to build a Steady Stream of Potential Clients by shifting from hunting strangers to collaborating with trusted connections — your “Lumberjacks.” Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: ✅ Why networking is a great way to start—but a terrible place to stay ✅ How to season relationships and build trust before asking for business ✅ The four key stages of the Lumberjack Buying System ✅ How to stop selling one customer at a time and build a system that brings you many ✅ Why serving beats selling every single time If you’ve ever felt exhausted by traditional sales tactics, this episode will show you a better way — one built on relationships, generosity, and long-term success. And if you haven’t yet, go back and listen to Episode 27 – Stop Networking and Start Building a Network Instead! Listen here.

What really drives you to get out of bed every morning and how does that shape the way you do business? In this inspiring conversation, Chuck Blakeman sits down with entrepreneur Cassie Morris to explore the concept of the Big Why, the lifetime goal you can never check off, but that gives meaning to everything you do. Cassie shares her journey from a career in sales to launching two businesses, Clover Communications and Strategy and Dilly Dally Donut Bar and how discovering her Big Why transformed not just her work, but her life. Together, she and Chuck unpack what it means to live authentically, how clarity creates power, and why knowing your “why” is more important than any business plan. You’ll discover: ✅ Why a lifetime goal matters more than any short-term milestone ✅ How authenticity and freedom can redefine success ✅ Why clarity in your “why” makes every decision easier ✅ How the 3to5 Club helps entrepreneurs align their life and work If you’ve ever felt stuck chasing the next goal or wondering what your business is really for—this episode will help you find your deeper motivation and build a business that serves your life, not the other way around. ----more---- About Cassie Morris: Cassie Morris is an entrepreneur based in Denver, CO, and the founder of Clover Communications and Strategy, a consultancy helping business owners improve operations and streamline processes. She’s also the owner of Dilly Dally Donut Bar in Bozeman, MT, a business built on her passion for authenticity, community, and connection. Connect with Cassie: 🌐 clovercommunicationsandstrategy.com 🍩 dillydallydonutbar.com

Why does selling feel so uncomfortable—for both sides? In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman flips the script on traditional sales thinking and reveals why nobody wants to be sold, but everybody wants to buy. Chuck unpacks four timeless principles that help you stop pushing products and start building relationships that naturally lead to business. You’ll learn how to move from transactional to relational selling and create conversations that make people say, “Oh, you get me.” Here’s what you’ll discover in this episode: ✅ The four core principles that transform selling into serving ✅ Why consistency builds trust—and how to make it practical ✅ How to “meet people where they are,” not where you wish they were ✅ Why listening (not pitching) is your greatest business development tool ✅ How to create real connections that make people want to buy If you’ve ever dreaded “selling,” this episode will help you rethink everything you know about business development—so you can stop selling and start serving. 💡 Listen now and learn how to flip the script for good.

How can small business owners grow faster without chasing one client at a time? In this inspiring conversation, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Valerie Reid to unpack a powerful mindset shift — stop hunting trees, and start finding lumberjacks. Valerie shares how the concept of “lumberjacks”; strategic partners who already have trusted relationships with your ideal clients, has transformed her approach to marketing, partnerships, and growth. Together, they explore what happens when you stop competing and start collaborating, and how to build win-win relationships that multiply opportunity for everyone involved. You’ll learn: ✅ The difference between “hunting trees” and “finding lumberjacks” ✅ Why trust, not money, is your greatest business asset ✅ How collaboration with competitors can actually scale your business ✅ Practical ways to identify and nurture your own network of lumberjacks If you’ve ever felt exhausted by chasing leads, this episode offers a smarter, more sustainable way to build your business through authentic relationships and mutual growth. 🔗 Want to go deeper into the concept of Lumberjacks? Check out Episode 27 – Stop Networking and Start Building a Network Instead! ----more---- About Valerie Reid Valerie Reid is the CEO and Founder of Simple Cremation USA, a national online platform connecting families with funeral homes. A strategic and results-oriented leader, Valerie brings over a decade of experience advising Fortune 100 and 500 companies during her time at Deloitte. She’s passionate about innovation, collaboration, and helping others build scalable businesses rooted in trust and purpose. 🌐 Website: simplecremationusa.com 📞 Phone: 1-866-333-5130

How do you stay top-of-mind with the people who matter most to your business without feeling like you’re “selling” to them? In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into the power of a Drip System, a relationship-driven approach to marketing that keeps you consistently connected with potential clients and your key referral partners (what Chuck calls “Lumberjacks”). Chuck lays out practical principles for creating a drip system you’ll actually enjoy doing for years, focusing on serving, not selling, while building the trust that fuels long-term success. Whether you’re a solo entrepreneur or running a team, this episode will help you: Design consistent, energizing touchpoints with your audience Use recency and frequency the right way, without being pushy Pace yourself for long-term success instead of short-term sprints Build relationships that naturally turn into clients and referrals 🔗 New to the term “Lumberjacks”? Go back to Episode 27: Stop Networking – And Start Building a Network Instead! for the full backstory. This is the roadmap to growing your business through authentic, relationship-based marketing, one steady drip at a time.

What if you could grow your business without “selling” at all? In this episode, Chuck sits down with Carey Lindeman to unpack the radical (and freeing) idea of Serve, Don’t Sell. Carey shares how shifting from transactional sales to relational service has transformed her business and how principles like finding “lumberjacks,” hosting catalyst events, and asking the right questions can help you build trust, attract clients, and enjoy the process instead of dreading it. Together, they explore practical strategies from the FasTrak framework that show why focusing on relationships, not transactions, is the path to sustainable growth. If you’ve ever hated the idea of selling, this conversation will give you a fresh mindset and real-world steps to build your business in a way that feels natural, fulfilling, and effective. 🔗 Carey also joined Chuck earlier in Episode 28 – The Power of Moving From Rugged Individualism to Living in Business Community. Don’t miss that one for even more insights into building community in business! ----more---- Learn more about Promise Care: https://promisecareinc.com/  Get a hold of Carey at [email protected] 

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives deep into the art and science of lasting personal change and why it’s fundamental for business owners who want to keep growing. Chuck unpacks the four essential questions we all face around change: Can we change? Should we change? Will we change? And if so, how? Along the way, he explores how our nervous system is wired for transformation, why knowledge alone won’t move the needle, and why true change comes from identity shifts, community, and attachment. You’ll also hear practical insights about learning agility, reframing stress as growth, and the simple but profound truth: “If you want something to change, you have to change something.” If you’ve ever struggled to make change stick or wondered how to grow without burning out, this episode will give you the mindset and tools to create permanent transformation in both life and business.

Sometimes, the biggest obstacle to success isn’t failure—it’s waiting for the “perfect” plan. In this milestone 50th episode, Chuck welcomes back Jennifer Stapleton to explore why having a bad plan is often far better than no plan at all. Jennifer shares her insights from the FasTrak program, including how creating a simple “bad plan for success” helped her break through analysis paralysis, build consistency, and drive real results. Together, they unpack practical ways to design a plan you can actually execute, how accountability tools (like giant paperclips!) can keep you on track, and why movement—not endless planning—creates clarity. Jennifer Stapleton is the founding partner of Fire & Bliss, a communications and marketing firm serving philanthropies and nonprofits. With decades of experience as a strategist, advocate, and senior communications executive, Jennifer has helped organizations achieve major legislative wins, secure funding, and land coverage in top publications. Her unique mix of creativity and strategy continues to empower mission-driven businesses and nonprofits to thrive. If you’ve ever found yourself overthinking, stuck in planning mode, or waiting for the perfect conditions to start, this episode will help you take action—because even a bad plan can lead to great outcomes. 🔗 Learn more about Jennifer’s work at fireandbliss.com  🔗 Connect with Jennifer on LinkedIn ----more---- For more from Jennifer, go back and listen to her first guest episode: Episode #26: Serve, Don’t Sell: The Path to Sustainable Success Listen here

As entrepreneurs, we’d never dream of blowing off an appointment with a client—so why do we so often blow off the appointments we set with ourselves? In this episode, Chuck sits down with Mark Bellestri—a seasoned entrepreneur, 3to5 Club facilitator, and Crankset leader—to explore why honoring your own calendar may be the most important discipline in business ownership. With a diverse career spanning real estate, insurance, banking, consulting, and business ownership, Mark has successfully grown companies in the locksmith, healthcare, and education sectors. Drawing from his wide-ranging experience, he shares why keeping appointments with yourself isn’t just a productivity hack—it’s a long-term strategy for freedom, balance, and abundance. Together, Chuck and Mark unpack: The difference between signal vs. noise and why most of us get stuck in the noise. How “playing office” keeps us busy but not productive. The one thing you can do each week to create permanent momentum in your business. Why your strategic work needs a different place than your tactical work. How keeping appointments with yourself leads to less stress, more impact, and lasting freedom. If you feel trapped by the tyranny of the urgent, this conversation is for you. Learn why your own calendar is the first place to start—and how committing to yourself can change your entire business trajectory.

What if you could look at your business like a map—one that clearly shows where you are today and how to get to the life you actually want? In this powerful conversation, Chuck sits down with Bryan Farley, President of Association Reserves Colorado, to unpack the Seven Stages of Business Ownership—a framework that shifts the focus from just growing a business to building one that truly serves you. Together, they break down the journey from startup to freedom, share the pitfalls of getting stuck in “Stage Four” (where your business makes money but steals your time), and reveal the mindset shift that moves you toward a company that thrives even when you’re not there. Whether you’re in survival mode, chasing stability, or ready to design your ideal lifestyle, this episode gives you the clarity and direction to move forward with intention. 🔗 Learn more about Bryan Farley and Association Reserves at reservestudy.com 🎧 Don’t miss Bryan’s first guest appearance in Episode 18: Unlocking Freedom in Business: The Power of Freedom Mapping — Listen here.

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman challenges one of the most deeply held beliefs in business: the idea that you have competition. What if competition doesn’t exist? Chuck shares how adopting a scarcity mindset—where business is a zero-sum game—leads to fear, stress, and toxic culture. But when you embrace an abundance mindset, everything changes. You stop chasing other people’s success, and start building something truly your own. You’ll hear: ✅ Why “competition” is a distraction, not a threat ✅ How copying other businesses leads to mediocrity ✅ Why abundance-minded leaders build more successful (and joyful) businesses ✅ Real stories from Microsoft, Apple, and Chuck’s own journey that illustrate the difference ✅ How to focus your time and energy on your unique value instead of playing defense 💡 “You weren’t built to chase someone else’s dream. You were built to create your own.” If you’ve been looking over your shoulder, measuring your value by someone else’s success, this episode is your wake-up call.

How do you create consistent results in your business while stepping further out of the day-to-day? In this powerful follow-up episode, Chuck sits down again with Stacy Voss to unpack the real-world impact of Freedom Mapping—a system Stacy uses to empower her remote team, improve client experience, and eliminate the need for constant management. Together, they explore why documenting your core business processes (even if you're a solo entrepreneur) is a game-changer, how it fosters consistency and trust, and the mindset shift that allows business owners to move from control to collaboration. You’ll also hear practical ways to begin Freedom Mapping and how it ties directly to your company’s core values and mission. If you're tired of feeling like the bottleneck in your business and want to build something that thrives without your constant oversight, this episode is your roadmap. 🔗 Learn more about Stacy Voss and her work at northstargrantwriting.com  🎧 And if you missed Stacy’s first appearance on the show, go back and catch it—it’s a brilliant look at her journey from solopreneur to business owner with freedom. Check out Episode 22 here.

In this episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into one of the most counterintuitive truths about business ownership: You shouldn’t try to fix your weaknesses. Chuck outlines three powerful reasons why working on your business weaknesses not only wastes time—it actually limits your success. You’ll learn: ✅ Why trying to be great at everything is a dangerous myth ✅ How focusing on weaknesses creates codependence and kills freedom ✅ Why doubling down on your strengths makes your business—and life—more effective and fulfilling Chuck also introduces the Apex Profile—a groundbreaking tool designed specifically for business owners to identify their unique strengths and lead accordingly. If you’ve ever felt stuck or overwhelmed trying to “do it all,” this episode will set you free. 🔗 Check out the Apex Profile at ApexProfile.com 🎁Plus—listen in to catch an exclusive discount code for GOTT Podcast listeners!

In this episode, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back business strategist and wellness educator Vanessa Emerson, founder of The Evolving Expert. Together, they explore why most business plans fail—and how a simple, dynamic two-page strategic plan can transform the way you run your business. Vanessa and Chuck share how this living document keeps you focused on what truly moves your business forward—helping you move past the tyranny of the urgent and toward long-term significance. 🎧 You’ll discover: ✅ The difference between a static business plan and a rolling strategic plan ✅ Why the best strategic plan impacts what you do today ✅ How to separate tasks that change your business forever from those that just keep it running ✅ The importance of revisiting your plan daily or weekly ✅ Real-life stories of entrepreneurs who used this process to double revenue and reclaim their time 💡 “If your strategic plan doesn’t impact your daily actions, it’s just shelf help.” ----more---- 📍 Connect with Vanessa Emerson: Website: theevolvingexpert.com Email: [email protected] 👉 Missed Vanessa’s first guest episode about life vision and the big why? Listen here → Episode 16

In this special solo episode, Chuck Blakeman explores why moments of tension, discomfort, and even chaos are not something to run from—but the very moments that spark our deepest growth. Drawing from music, Chuck illustrates how rhythm, melody, harmony, dissonance, and discord mirror our personal and business lives—and why leaning into what feels uncomfortable can lead us to new breakthroughs and richer, more meaningful experiences. 🎧 You’ll hear: ✅ Why we don’t grow in our flow—we produce there ✅ How dissonance and discord act as invitations to transformation ✅ The difference between reacting to life vs. responding with intention ✅ What it means to find freedom within your circumstances—not from them ✅ How music teaches us to embrace life’s off-notes as part of a bigger harmony 💡 “Circumstances don’t make me who I am. How I respond to them does.”

In this energizing roundtable, Chuck Blakeman, John Heenan, and Henry McCrory explore the powerful link between daily routines and long-term success—not just in business, but in life. From morning habits and mindset shifts to setting your priorities with intention, this episode offers practical takeaways for entrepreneurs who want more than just productivity… they want significance. 🎯 You’ll discover: ✅ The simple principles behind building a meaningful daily routine ✅ Why your inputs—books, people, and environment—shape your future ✅ How to lead yourself first before leading your business ✅ Why getting grounded daily helps overcome the tyranny of the urgent ✅ Tools like vision boards, gratitude, and breathing that actually work 💡 “What you do daily reflects what you truly value—whether you admit it or not.” — Recorded on the road in Spain. Chuck shares fresh insights while traveling to a live event—proof that business (and breakthroughs) don’t wait for perfect timing.

Is “work-life balance” even real—or just a leftover idea from the factory era? In this candid and energizing conversation, Chuck Blakeman, John Heenan, and Henry McCrory unpack what it really means to live an integrated life—where work and personal priorities aren’t constantly at war, but intentionally woven together. Together, they challenge the outdated notion of balance and offer a refreshing perspective on how to build a business and life around purpose, not pressure. 🎧 You’ll hear: ✅ Why traditional “balance” creates rigidity, not freedom ✅ How integration gives you more control over your time and energy ✅ The one question that helps you focus on what truly matters ✅ Why managing tasks isn’t the same as leading your life ✅ How to schedule your days around values—not just obligations 💡 “What will I be glad I did today—10 years from now?” — Recorded on the road in Spain. Chuck shares fresh insights while traveling to a live event—proof that business (and breakthroughs) don’t wait for ideal conditions.

What if your company’s culture is running on an outdated operating system—and no one even realizes it? In this insightful conversation, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Josh Allan Dykstra, CEO of The Work Revolution and one of today’s most respected thought leaders on the future of work and human energy. Together, they explore the idea that company culture functions like an operating system—often invisible, but massively influential. Josh challenges us to move beyond default behaviors and start designing intentional, energizing systems that empower people to thrive—while freeing business owners from the daily grind. 🎧 You’ll discover: ✅ Why most company cultures happen by accident (and how to fix that) ✅ How to spot outdated “factory system” beliefs running in the background ✅ The power of creating a shared “Culture Book” to make values tangible ✅ How input equals ownership—and leads to lasting buy-in ✅ Why working on your system frees you from working in the chaos “People only support what they help create. If you want your team to own the culture, they need a voice in building it.” — Josh Allan Dykstra If you’re ready to stop running on autopilot and build a more intentional, human, and high-energy workplace—this episode is your blueprint. Missed Josh's first appearance on the show? Check it out here: Episode 14: Human Energy in the Workplace 🔗 Connect with Josh and request a copy of his Culture Book: joshallan.com 📺 Watch Josh’s TED Talk for more on energy-based leadership systems

Are you spending more and getting less from your marketing? It might be time to ditch the noise and go where the gold is. In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman breaks down the Four Quadrants of Marketing—from high-cost advertising to the underused strategy that consistently delivers results for small business owners: Relationship Marketing. Whether you’re overwhelmed by ad budgets, tired of cold outreach, or just want to build a more human business, this episode gives you the clarity to choose the right marketing strategy for your size, stage, and values. 🎯 You’ll discover: ✅ Why small businesses struggle with Quadrant 1 (and why that’s okay) ✅ The difference between shotgun marketing and laser-focused direct outreach ✅ Real-world examples of how PR can drive big results with small budgets ✅ Why Relationship Marketing is the #1 growth strategy for small businesses ✅ Chuck’s personal favorite metric: “The closer you are to a hug, the more likely you are to sell something.” 💡 “In a small business, you don’t ‘have to’ build relationships—you ‘get to.’” If you want more leads, less pressure, and better long-term ROI, this episode is your blueprint.

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Lynn Whitbeck, the queen of joyful sales, to explore how shifting your mindset from “selling” to “serving” can transform your business—and your happiness. Lynn shares how worthy intent, authenticity, and a simple sales plan can make sales not only effective, but fulfilling. If you’ve ever said “I hate selling,” this episode is for you. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ Why “worthy intent” creates genuine client connection ✅ The power of showing up authentically (no scripts, no sleaze) ✅ How to build a sales strategy that feels natural—and scalable ✅ What to do when a prospect isn’t a good fit (hint: it’s still a win) ✅ How joy in the process leads to better clients and longer relationships 💡 “When you lead with service, joy follows—and so do your ideal clients.” ----more---- 👤 About Lynn Whitbeck: Lynn Whitbeck is the Queen of Joyful Sales. Business owners and entrepreneurs hire Lynn to ignite winning sales—because most fail to connect, capture, and close their ideal clients. She is the Founder and CEO of Petite2Queen, and host of Claim Your Career Crown and the Get More Clients Show streaming on Amazon Fire, Roku, and Apple TV. Lynn loves visiting national parks, cooking, and playing Pokémon Go. 📌 Connect with Lynn & Explore More: 🔹 Website: https://petite2queen.com 🔹 Facebook: @petite2queen 🔹 Instagram: @petite2queen 🔹 YouTube: Petite2Queen Channel 🔹 Get More Clients TV Show: Watch Here 🔹 LinkedIn: Lynn Whitbeck 🔹 Grow Your Business Masterclass 🔹 Fortune 500 Sales Secrets eBook 🔹 Get More Clients Checklist

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman tackles a question most business owners never stop to ask: Why are we still selling to strangers—and what if we didn’t have to? Drawing from his decades of entrepreneurial experience, Chuck breaks down the outdated, industrial-age mindset that still drives most sales strategies today—and introduces a far better alternative. The episode explores how building trust and connection before the sale can eliminate the awkwardness, pressure, and inefficiency of chasing cold leads. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ Why “the closer you are to a hug, the more likely you are to sell” ✅ How to build a steady stream of warm prospects (without cold calls) ✅ The second and third degree of separation strategy to unlock your network ✅ Why relationship-based selling beats transactions—every time ✅ A mindset shift that makes business more human (and more fun) 💬 “It’s not about selling harder. It’s about connecting deeper.” If you’re tired of chasing cold leads, awkward closes, and old-school sales tactics—this episode will show you how to grow through trust, not transactions.

In this powerful follow-up conversation, Chuck Blakeman sits down once again with Allison Harvey—founder of Benediction Counseling—and business advisor Mark Bellestri to explore what it really takes to get your business finances right-side up. Allison shares candidly about a time when she was on the brink: maxed out loans, dipping into personal savings, and carrying the emotional weight of protecting her team. With help from outside eyes and a strategic shift in mindset, she rebuilt her business on a foundation of clarity, accountability, and sustainable growth. 🎙️ You’ll discover: ✅ What to do when your business is bleeding cash ✅ The “3 or 4 major levers” that affect profitability ✅ How mindset shifts around money and leadership changed everything ✅ Why knowing your break-even number is a game-changer ✅ How moving from “employer” to “stakeholder” culture helped her team thrive 💡 “Profit isn’t greedy—it’s what makes the risk of ownership sustainable.”

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into a game-changing mindset shift for small business owners: how to get more referrals without ever asking for them—at least not in the way you've been taught. Chuck introduces a powerful, proven question that flips the referral process on its head. Instead of centering yourself, you'll learn how to engage clients by focusing on how they can help their friends. He unpacks the psychology behind why traditional referral requests often fail and shows you how this one simple, intentional question can lead to stronger client trust and more business. Plus, Chuck breaks down the four best moments to “not ask” for a referral—including one that might surprise you: when you’ve messed up. If you’re tired of awkwardly asking for referrals or feeling salesy, this episode is your blueprint for authentic growth through real relationships. 🧠 Key Takeaway: “Do you know one other person who might benefit from the experience you’re having?”

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Liz Daeninck, Founder of Valentis Wellness, to explore the simple—but powerful—principle that drives sustainable business growth: consistency. Chuck and Liz break down why doing what you say you’ll do isn’t just good ethics—it’s the ultimate marketing tool. They explain how consistency builds trust, why it’s cheaper and smarter to keep a client than chase new ones, and how a simple, structured plan can lead to higher referrals and better client relationships. Whether you’re in wellness, business coaching, or selling chairs, the truth is universal: clients refer those they trust—and trust starts with consistency.

In this solo episode, Chuck Blakeman dives into what he calls a counter-logical approach to filling your appointment calendar—one that starts with how you lead, not how you sell. He unpacks why most sales processes break down before the pitch even starts and shows you how to create a steady stream of potential clients using the Proximity Principle (aka the Hug Principle). Chuck revisits the Four Walking-In Commitments and the Four Buying Questions, then breaks down the four types of marketing quadrants—explaining why relationship marketing gives small business owners an “unfair advantage.” You’ll learn a practical, proven system to schedule appointments with ease and confidence, helping you stand out as a leader, not just another salesperson. If you're tired of chasing leads and want a strategy that actually fills your calendar, this episode is for you. Key Takeaways: ✅ Why being a leader starts with how you schedule appointments ✅ The "Proximity Principle" and why it works ✅ A two-step appointment-setting system that increases responses ✅ The surprising quadrant where most small business owners should focus their energy ✅ How to use polite persistence with multiple mediums (text, email, call) without being pushy 📌 Listen now and learn how to make your sales process work before the sales conversation even begins.

In this episode of Get Off the Treadmill, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Jeff Krommendyk, former owner of Security First Insurance Agency, to dive deep into how small business owners can build intentional company cultures—no matter their size. Jeff shares his inspiring journey from the grind of startup life to creating a freedom-based business model, and eventually selling his successful agency. Together, Chuck and Jeff explore the concept of a stakeholder mindset—how rethinking roles, language, and responsibility can transform a traditional "employee culture" into one rooted in ownership, dignity, and trust. Jeff shares practical strategies like rewriting the employee handbook, reshaping job postings, and redefining decision-making through the powerful “above and below the waterline” framework. This episode is packed with wisdom for any business owner looking to empower their team, elevate their culture, and get off the treadmill of working in the business instead of on it. Take the next step and grab a copy of Chuck’s new book, Sell Less Earn More: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1642011819 

In this episode, Chuck Blakeman reveals how to shift from traditional selling to serving with his Four Buying Questions approach. Discover how to build deeper client relationships, earn trust, and guide them to make informed decisions — all without pushing a sale. Key Insights: 🔑 Principles Behind the Four Buying Questions Serve, Don’t Sell: Focus on your client’s needs, not your product. Meet Them Where They Are: Understand their present situation, not where you want them to be. Seek to Understand: Listen to your client’s challenges before offering solutions. 🔑 The Four Buying Questions Framework Past Question: “How did you get started in your business?” Future Question: “What’s your vision for the next 3, 5, or 10 years?” Present Question: “What’s the one thing you can do today to move forward?” Customer Profile Question: “Who is your ideal customer?” 🔑 The Four Walking In Commitments Prioritize their long-term best interest. Only discuss your business when invited. Focus on cultivating relationships, not immediate sales. Always make an offer, even if it’s unrelated to your service. Stop selling and start serving. By asking thoughtful questions instead of delivering pitches, you build trust, clarify your client’s needs, and create lasting success.

In this episode of the Get Off the Treadmill Podcast, host Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Ben Kimball, co-owner of Kimball Productions and COO, Senior Editor, Producer, and Screenwriter. Ben shares insights from his journey in shifting his business mindset, inspired by Chuck’s book, Making Money is Killing Your Business. Key Points Discussed: Starting with the End in Mind: Defining your desired outcome to guide decisions. From Survival to Intention: Shifting from just “paying the mortgage” to building a self-sustaining business. Leadership vs. Management: The importance of effective delegation and avoiding abdication. Parallel Lessons in Fatherhood: Investing time upfront for long-term efficiency. Five-Question Process: Clarifying goals, timelines, roadmaps, obstacles, and actionable steps. Check our special offer for the Making Money is Killing Your Business: https://bit.ly/m/3to5Club  Take the next step and grab a copy of Chuck’s new book, Sell Less Earn More: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1642011819

Most business owners hate selling—but what if you never had to sell again? In this episode, we’re tackling commission breath—that desperate energy potential clients can sense a mile away. We'll share how Chuck unknowingly fell into this trap and the four simple commitments that completely transformed his buying conversations.   Key Takeaways:   ✅ How commission breath silently kills your sales. ✅ The three foundational principles that shift you from selling to serving. ✅ The Four Walking-In Commitments that ensure clients seek you out. ✅ Why NOT talking about your business can actually increase sales.   🚀 Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of chasing clients and feeling like sales is a necessary evil, this episode is for you. These commitments will change the way you approach business development—helping you build relationships instead of forcing transactions.   💡 Host’s Takeaway:   Once I stopped focusing on closing deals and started focusing on serving, my business flourished. The Four Walking-In Commitments allowed me to attract more clients naturally, without feeling pushy or desperate.   🎯 Don’t just listen—take action. "You get what you intend, not what you hope for."   🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:   📖 Sell Less, Earn More by Chuck Blakeman – Available on Amazon HERE 🌐 Connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com 📩 Get Chuck’s business growth guide at for a limited price of $2.99 here   Try these four commitments in your next client meeting and see the difference for yourself. Have you ever experienced commission breath? Drop a comment or send me a message—I’d love to hear your thoughts!

What if the best businesses weren’t planned, but discovered? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman sits down with Carey Lindeman, founder of Promise Care, to discuss how an unexpected volunteer experience led her to create a thriving home care business—and why she’s now transitioning into a new role as a business community leader.   💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ How Carey stumbled into entrepreneurship by filling a need in the senior care industry ✅ The importance of business communities and why every entrepreneur needs one ✅ The four building blocks of a successful business and how they create sustainable growth ✅ Why simplicity in strategic planning is key to long-term success   🎧 About Our Guest:   With nearly two decades of entrepreneurial experience, Carey Lindeman built Promise Care, a boutique senior care company focused on dignity and relationships. Now, she’s stepping into a new role as a co-facilitator of business communities, helping entrepreneurs build businesses that serve their lives—not the other way around.   Why This Episode Matters:   Many entrepreneurs struggle with isolation and uncertainty. Carey’s story highlights how being in a structured business community provides clarity, support, and fresh perspectives. Whether you're starting out or scaling up, having outside eyes on your business is a game-changer.   Host’s Takeaway:   "Entrepreneurs don’t need more complexity—they need clarity and community. Carey’s journey proves that success comes from movement, not over-planning. If you’ve ever felt stuck in your business, this episode is for you."   👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Find a community, simplify your strategy, and start building a business that gives you freedom!   👉 Links & Resources Mentioned:   Learn more about Promise Care: https://promisecareinc.com/ Discover 3to5 Club and how it helps business owners thrive: www.3to5club.com Book recommendation: The Wisdom of Crowds by James Surowiecki   🎙 Stay tuned for more episodes on building businesses that give you freedom, not just money!

Most business owners have been told that networking is the key to growth. But what if that’s a myth? What if traditional networking is actually keeping you trapped in an endless cycle of chasing customers—rather than building a thriving business?   In this episode, Chuck Blakeman challenges the conventional wisdom around networking and reveals three powerful reasons why successful business owners don’t waste time at networking events. Instead, they focus on building strong, strategic relationships that drive long-term success.   💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ Why traditional networking keeps small businesses small ✅ How to replace transactional sales with a relational business model ✅ The secret to finding “lumberjacks” who bring you the right clients—without endless networking ✅ How to shift from hunting one customer at a time to leveraging powerful connections ✅ Why building a network (instead of just networking) leads to more freedom and profitability   🎧 About Our Host: Chuck Blakeman is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and business transformation expert. With 13 businesses under his belt, Chuck has helped thousands of business owners break free from outdated strategies and build companies that run beyond them. His latest book, Sell Less, Earn More, dives deep into the mindset shift that turns struggling entrepreneurs into thriving business leaders.   🚀 Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of handing out business cards, chasing leads, and feeling stuck in a never-ending sales cycle, this episode will help you shift your approach. By focusing on a few key relationships rather than countless surface-level connections, you’ll gain more time, more revenue, and more freedom.   💡 Host’s Takeaway: Networking might be a great starting point, but it shouldn’t be your long-term strategy. The most successful business owners don’t rely on endless networking—they build real, high-value relationships with just a few key partners. When you make this shift, your business will grow exponentially while requiring less effort.   🎯 Don’t just listen—take action. Start building your network today and move from being an income producer to a true business owner.   🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned: 📖 Sell Less, Earn More by Chuck Blakeman – Available on Amazon HERE 🌐 Connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com 📩 Get Chuck’s business growth guide at for a limited price of $2.99 HERE     "Successful business owners don’t go to networking events. And if you’re spending too much time networking, you might actually be holding your business back. In this episode, I’ll show you why—and what you should be doing instead." —Chuck Blakeman

In this episode, we dive into a game-changing business philosophy: Serve, Don’t Sell. Chuck sits down with Jennifer Stapleton, founding partner of Fire & Bliss, to explore why leading with service—not sales—creates better outcomes for businesses and clients alike.   💡 Here’s what you’ll learn:   ✅ Why serving clients’ true needs leads to long-term success ✅ How to align your business with your values and ideal clients ✅ The power of referrals and trust in building a sustainable brand ✅ How fear-based decision-making can hold you back—and what to do instead   🎧 About Our Guest: Jennifer Stapleton is a communications strategist, business owner, and artist who brings a unique blend of creativity and strategy to the world of marketing. Through Fire & Bliss, she has helped advocacy organizations achieve major policy wins, supported nonprofits in fulfilling their missions, and landed hundreds of stories in major U.S. publications.   🚀 Why This Episode Matters: Too many entrepreneurs focus on closing the next sale instead of building lasting relationships. This episode challenges that mindset, showing you how generosity and service can actually drive more business success.   💡 Host’s Takeaway: The best businesses aren’t built on pressure tactics—they’re built on trust. When you prioritize the long-term success of your clients (even if that means referring them elsewhere), your own business will thrive in return.   👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Click play now and find the path to sustainable success!   Links & Resources Mentioned:   Website: www.fireandbliss.com  Jennifer Stapleton's LinkedIn: @jenniferbcstapleton Chuck Blakeman's new book: Sell Less, Earn More: PREORDER HERE     What happens when you stop trying to “sell” and start genuinely serving? Jennifer shares a powerful real-world example of how putting others first can lead to unexpected business growth.

What if you could truly lead your business instead of just managing it? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman continues the discussion on business maturity dates (BMD) and how to take intentional steps toward achieving a business that serves your ideal lifestyle. If you’re stuck on the stability treadmill, it’s time to break free and build a business that works for you—not the other way around.   💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ The 50% Rule: Why business leaders must spend at least half their time leading, not managing ✅ How to create unscheduled and unavailable time to focus on growth instead of daily fires ✅ The five essential steps to designing a business that fuels your ideal lifestyle ✅ Why setting a Business Maturity Date (BMD) is one of the most important decisions you’ll ever make   🎧 About Our Guest: Chuck Blakeman is a serial entrepreneur, best-selling author, and business transformation expert. His insights have helped thousands of business owners escape the grind and achieve freedom.   🚀 Why This Episode Matters: Too many business owners let their companies dictate their lives. This episode gives you a roadmap to shift from managing to leading, helping you reclaim time, money, and control over your future.   💡 Host’s Takeaway: Setting a Business Maturity Date (BMD) isn’t just about making a plan—it’s about making a commitment. Chuck’s approach is both practical and inspiring, and his own journey proves that failing to set a date is the real failure.   👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Set your BMD, go public, and start working toward real freedom. Click play now!   🔗 Links & Resources Mentioned:   📘 Rehumanizing the Workplace by Chuck Blakeman 🌍 Join a 3to5 Club to connect with like-minded business owners (www.3to5club.com) ✍️ Map out your ideal lifestyle goals with Chuck’s online resources   In future episodes, we’ll dive into freedom mapping, strategic planning, and the mindset shifts that will transform how you run your business. Stay tuned!

What if you could run your business without it running you? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman welcomes back Clayton Achen, the visionary behind Achen Henderson, a modern virtual CPA firm dedicated to small business success. Together, they dive deep into Freedom Mapping, a game-changing approach to scaling a business while gaining more time and freedom.   💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ What Freedom Mapping is and why it’s the key to stepping off the treadmill ✅ How mapping the right processes can help you delegate, scale, and take Fridays off ✅ The crucial difference between process mapping and freedom mapping ✅ Why mapping only what’s broken (or about to break) can transform your business   🎧 About Our Guest: Clayton Achen is a CPA, tax ninja, and small business advocate. As the founder of Achen Henderson, he’s on a mission to help entrepreneurs succeed through cloud accounting, process optimization, and leadership development. He also runs a 3to5 Club Mastermind, guiding business owners to earn more in less time while building sustainable businesses.   Why This Episode Matters: If you’re tired of being the bottleneck in your business and want to scale without burnout, Freedom Mapping is your roadmap to more time, money, and autonomy. Chuck and Clayton break it down into actionable steps so you can start implementing today.   Host’s Takeaway: Mapping might not sound sexy, but the freedom it creates is life-changing. The businesses that systematize win. The ones that don’t stay stuck. It’s that simple. 👉 Don’t just listen—take action. Click play now and start mapping your way to freedom!   Links & Resources Mentioned: Clayton Achen’s Website: https://achenhenderson.ca  Email Clayton: [email protected] Join a 3to5 Club: Learn more about mastermind groups at www.3to5club.com Chuck Blakeman’s Book: Making Money Is Killing Your Business – Discover the seven stages of business ownership and how to reach true freedom. Get your copy here: https://bit.ly/specialoffer-mmikyb    🎧 Stay tuned for future episodes where we break down the tools and strategies to help you scale your business while working less!

What if you could build a business that truly sets you free—financially and personally? In this episode, Chuck Blakeman introduces the concept of the Business Maturity Date (BMD) and shares how intentionality can transform your entrepreneurial journey.       💡 Here’s what you’ll learn: ✅ The two key markers of a mature business. ✅ Why setting a Business Maturity Date (BMD) is a game-changer. ✅ How intentionality drives clarity, urgency, and results. ✅ Inspiring real-life examples of business owners achieving freedom.   🎧 About Our Host: Chuck Blakeman is a successful entrepreneur, author, and founder of Crankset Group. He’s helped thousands of business owners around the globe break free from the grind by building businesses that work for them—not the other way around. Chuck’s insights are based on real-world experience, and his actionable frameworks have reshaped how people think about business and freedom.   Why This Episode Matters: Too many business owners are stuck on the treadmill—earning money but sacrificing their time and freedom. This episode isn’t about growing a big business or selling it; it’s about designing a business that funds a life you love. 👉 Don’t just dream of freedom—claim it! Click play now and learn how to take your first steps toward a business that works for you.   Links & Resources Mentioned: Making Money is Killing Your Business by Chuck Blakeman – the book that started it all. Click here to get a copy: https://bit.ly/specialoffer-mmikyb  Learn more about 3to5 Club and connect with Chuck at www.3to5club.com    Stay tuned for the next episode, where Chuck reveals how to measure freedom at your Business Maturity Date and introduces the 50% rule.