The Freedom Experience with Jean Moncrieff

Private equity isn’t the only path forward. And selling isn’t the only definition of success. Dr. Greg Toback is the founder and CEO of Resolute Dental Partners, a doctor-led family of practices built to preserve clinical autonomy and long-term legacy in dentistry. With more than 25 years as a periodontist and business mentor, Greg saw consolidation sweeping through healthcare and chose to build a different model. In this episode, Greg shares how the rise of Dental Support Organizations changed the industry, why many legacy doctors feel forced to sell, and what it takes to build a scalable company without losing ownership or values. He breaks down the realities behind “clinical autonomy,” why most partnerships fail, and how Resolute is creating true equity partnerships designed to last for generations. This is a conversation about ownership, culture, succession, and designing a business that is built to endure. We talk about: 🔹 Why private equity rapidly consolidated the dental industry 🔹 How rising education debt reshaped practice transitions 🔹 The hidden pressures behind “clinical autonomy” 🔹 Why most dental partnerships fail 🔹 The difference between transactional deals and true partnerships 🔹 The three KPIs that matter most: patient experience, team health, profitability 🔹 How to scale with intention instead of ego 🔹 What freedom really means when you are building for legacy Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “Owners behave differently.” 💬 “If we want to be partners, we have to act like partners.” 💬 “We’re not building this to flip it.” 💬 “Freedom means doing what I love for as long as I can.” Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Clarify why you want a partner before drafting agreements ✅ Align expectations early to avoid transactional relationships ✅ Measure what truly matters in your business ✅ Protect culture while scaling operations ✅ Design succession intentionally, not reactively ✅ Build something that can transfer to the next generation Resources from this episode: → Resolute Dental Partners: https://resolutedentalpartners.com/ → Connect with Greg on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregory-toback-dmd-ms-533068137/ → Resolute LinkedIn page: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resolute-dental-partners/ Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more business owners build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, ownership, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com  

Fear isn’t the enemy of leadership. Getting stuck in it is. And if you’re still leading from urgency, reactivity, or overcorrection, you’re already limiting your clarity. Beck Sydow is the founder of Humankind Business Leaders and a leadership coach helping founders, CEOs, and senior teams become People Hearted and Business Minded. With a background in psychotherapy, Buddhist psychology, and years of operational leadership as COO and CEO of StickerGiant, Beck brings a grounded, deeply human approach to modern leadership. In this episode, Beck breaks down why leaders lose clarity when fear takes over and how most organizations end up over-indexing on either the hard edge of business or the soft edge of caring for people. They share a simple but powerful practice for shifting from fear into curiosity, insight, and presence — a framework that helps leaders hold tension instead of collapsing into extremes. We talk about: 🔹 Why fear causes leaders to double down on one side of the business 🔹 The People Hearted and Business Minded model for modern leadership 🔹 How fear shuts down clarity and drives reactive decision-making 🔹 The Two-Hand Practice for creating space and regaining perspective 🔹 Why leadership breakthroughs come from 1 percent shifts 🔹 How your nervous system shapes your entire organization 🔹 What freedom really means in the leadership journey 🔹 How to hold tension without burning out or disconnecting Whether you’re navigating growth, uncertainty, or the pressure to get everything right, this conversation will give you a new way to think about leadership, fear, and the inner work required to lead with wisdom. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “If you can hold two things at once, you can lead with wisdom.” 💬 “Fear narrows your world. Curiosity opens it.” 💬 “We’re not trying to balance. We’re learning to hold.” 💬 “Freedom comes from knowing where you are and choosing how to respond.” Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Practice the Two Hand method to shift from fear into curiosity ✅ Notice where you over-index on people or business when stressed ✅ Use small, consistent 1 percent moves to change your leadership ✅ Ground your nervous system before making key decisions ✅ Stay in inquiry when tension rises instead of collapsing into extremes ✅ Lead with clarity by holding both edges of leadership at the same time Resources from this episode: → Humankind Business Leaders: https://www.humankindbusinessleaders.com/about  → Connect with Beck: https://www.linkedin.com/in/becksydow/  → Grounding practices available under Resources on Beck’s website → Diagram download: https://drive.google.com/file/d/1AnP-9dMZEfh3f_rqN9a7yPsymCuoKLjW/view  Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, clarity, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com 

From Fighter Jets to Boardrooms: The Power of Debriefing Most leaders say they want freedom. But as Christian “Boo” Boucousis puts it, freedom doesn’t come from doing less; it comes from leading better. Boo is a former Australian fighter pilot turned CEO of Afterburner, a global leadership consultancy trusted by Microsoft, McDonald’s, Pfizer, Zurich, Lenovo, and even the NBA. Diagnosed with an autoimmune disorder that ended his flying career, Boo rebuilt his life by transforming the fighter pilot mindset into a blueprint for high-performing teams and intentional leadership. In this episode, Boo and Jean explore what happens when military precision meets purpose-driven leadership. They unpack the OODA loop and how it helps leaders move from chaos to clarity, and dive into the art of debriefing, a simple but powerful practice that turns mistakes into learning and teams into problem-solvers. You’ll walk away seeing leadership through a new lens, one grounded in structure, reflection, and freedom. We talk about: 🔹 How Boo went from fighter jets to boardrooms 🔹 The OODA loop and what it teaches leaders about decision-making 🔹 Why debriefing is the secret to continuous growth and accountability 🔹 How intentionality shapes culture and performance 🔹 Why most meetings are broken and how to turn them into debriefs 🔹 What “freedom” really means for today’s leaders 🔹 How small, daily improvements compound into big results 🔹 The three dimensions of leadership: mindset, method, and moments Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “Freedom isn’t doing whatever you want. It’s knowing your team can deliver, even when you’re not in the room.” 💬 “Discipline creates freedom, not the other way around.” 💬 “Most leaders don’t need more people. They need more clarity.” 💬 “Debriefing is where growth happens. It’s where we learn how to lead better tomorrow.” Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Turn every meeting into a 15-minute debrief ✅ Start asking “What are we trying to deliver?” instead of “What are we doing?” ✅ Build a culture where reflection is routine, not rare ✅ Use the OODA loop: Observe, Orient, Decide, Act ✅ Remember, intentionality is your greatest competitive edge Resources from Boo: → Learn more about Afterburner: https://www.afterburner.com  → Connect with Boo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianbooboucousis  → Get Boo’s book The Afterburner Advantage: https://www.amazon.com/Afterburner-Advantage-fighter-transformed-companies/dp/1600052908 Resources from Jean: → Visit Jean’s website for all episodes: https://www.jeanmoncrieff.com  → Connect with Jean on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanmoncrieff  → Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jean.moncrieff  → Subscribe to the newsletter: https://www.jeanmoncrieff.com/newsletter  → Explore Jean’s masterclass: https://emerge.scoreapp.com  → Join the Small Giants Community: https://smallgiants.org  Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, growth, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com .

Building a purposeful culture isn’t something that happens by accident — it’s built through intentional leadership, transparency, and trust. Deanna C. Walker, CEO of Venturity , has spent over 35 years in finance, from investment banking to leading one of the most culture-driven accounting firms in the U.S. Under her leadership, Venturity has embraced open-book management, employee ownership, and a people-first approach that’s transforming how accounting firms think about culture and growth. In this episode, Deanna and Jean dive into what it takes to lead with purpose, create a culture of ownership, and empower teams to think — and act — like leaders. From navigating leadership transitions to aligning values in hiring and feedback, Deanna shares how intentional culture work builds both stronger teams and better businesses. We talk about: 🔹 How to build a vibrant, people-first culture in accounting 🔹 Why employee ownership fuels engagement and accountability 🔹 The power of open-book management in driving transparency 🔹 Navigating leadership transitions with clarity and communication 🔹 The role of mentorship in developing future leaders 🔹 How values alignment shapes hiring and performance 🔹 What freedom means from the CEO’s seat Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “We are the people business.” 💬 “We have to model the way.” 💬 “It’s a work in progress.” Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Foster transparency through open-book management ✅ Encourage employees to think like owners ✅ Align hiring and performance around core values ✅ Communicate openly during leadership transitions ✅ Invest in mentorship as a driver of culture and growth Resources from this episode: → Learn more about Venturity: venturity.com  → Connect with Deanna on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/deannacwalker  Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review — it helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, ownership, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com

Startups don’t beat giants by inventing new technology — they win by focusing on one sliver of the customer value chain and doing it better than anyone else. Thales Teixeira is a former Harvard Business School professor, co-founder of Decoupling.co, and author of the bestselling book Unlocking the Customer Value Chain. His groundbreaking research shows how companies like Uber, Airbnb, and Dollar Shave Club disrupted entire industries — not by building flashy tech, but by solving the specific customer frustrations incumbents ignored. In this episode, Thales and Jean unpack what he calls the “fourth wave of disruption.” From unbundling to disintermediation to decoupling — and now AI — he explains why customer dissatisfaction is the true driver of disruption, and how leaders can use AI to enhance real value instead of chasing shiny tools. We talk about: 🔹 Why customer dissatisfaction — not technology — drives disruption 🔹 The three waves that shaped modern business (and the fourth wave powered by AI) 🔹 How startups succeed by focusing narrowly on one activity in the customer value chain 🔹 Why established companies struggle to innovate and scale new ideas 🔹 How to apply AI strategically to enhance customer value drivers 🔹 The biggest mistake leaders make with AI (hint: it’s not about chatbots) 🔹 Why freedom in business — and life — comes from having options Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Freedom is the ability to choose." 💬 "Customers, not technology, disrupt markets." 💬 "Focus on one use case — prove it first." 💬 "Don’t try to scale too soon. Build the system before you automate." Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Map your customer value chain and identify weak links ✅ Narrow your focus to one “sliver” and do it better than anyone else ✅ Apply AI only to core value drivers, not side tasks ✅ Test manually before scaling or automating ✅ Remember: innovation is incremental — small wins compound into disruption Resources from this episode: → Learn more about Thales: www.decoupling.co  → Read Unlocking the Customer Value Chain: www.amazon.com → Connect with Thales on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/thalesteixeira  Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, disruption, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com 

“Success” isn’t always what it seems — especially when the cost is burnout, misalignment, and a broken workplace culture. Meghan French Dunbar is an entrepreneur, speaker, and author of This Isn’t Working: How Working Women Can Overcome Stress, Guilt, and Overload to Find True Success. As the co-founder and former CEO of Conscious Company Magazine, Meghan interviewed over 1,000 of the world’s most values-driven business leaders, only to find herself facing the very burnout she was trying to solve. In this episode, Meghan and Jean unpack the systemic causes of burnout and why it’s not an individual failure but a cultural one. They explore how shifting from shareholder supremacy to stakeholder capitalism can create healthier organizations, and why authentic leadership — not assimilation — is the key to building workplaces where people truly thrive. We talk about: 🔹 Why burnout is a systemic issue, not a personal weakness 🔹 How misalignment with your values accelerates exhaustion and stress 🔹 Why women face harsher performance reviews and steeper leadership hurdles than men 🔹 The role of small businesses in reshaping capitalism 🔹 Why leaders impact employee mental health as much as a spouse 🔹 The danger of assimilated leadership and the power of authenticity 🔹 Simple but powerful leadership practices that build cultures of appreciation 🔹 How redefining success creates healthier leaders, families, and companies Whether you’re a CEO, an emerging leader, or simply trying to navigate the demands of modern work, this conversation will challenge your view of success — and give you a path toward something healthier and more sustainable. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Burnout isn’t a personal failure — it’s a systemic problem." 💬 "Leaders impact mental health as much as a spouse does." 💬 "Our jobs are actually killing us." 💬 "The woman who is even marginally productive in this system is a warrior." Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Align your personal values with your workplace to prevent burnout ✅ Build a culture of appreciation through regular, specific feedback ✅ Protect your boundaries (and model them for your team) ✅ Practice authentic leadership instead of assimilating into toxic norms ✅ Remember: business is the largest aggregator of human potential — use it for good Resources from this episode: → Learn more about Meghan: https://www.meghanfrenchdunbar.com  → Book: This Isn’t Working: https://www.meghanfrenchdunbar.com/book  →Connect with Meghan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meghanfrenchdunbar/  Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, culture, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com

AI isn’t the enemy — it’s a mirror. And what it reflects back is forcing us to ask the deeper question: What does it really mean to be human? Jeff Burningham is an entrepreneur, venture capitalist, former Utah governor candidate, and now the author of The Last Book Written by a Human: Becoming Wise in the Age of AI. Having built billion-dollar companies and taught thousands of students, Jeff has spent the last few years reflecting on what matters most: moving from human doing to human being. In this episode, Jeff shares why AI isn’t just a technological shift — it’s a transformation point for humanity. From disruption and reflection to transformation and evolution, Jeff lays out the hero’s journey we’re all being called into. He argues that business must return to its original purpose — serving human flourishing — and why slowing down, reconnecting with nature, and embracing presence are the most radical choices leaders can make in the age of intelligent machines. We talk about: 🔹 Why AI is a cosmic mirror reflecting our humanity back to us 🔹 The shift from the “old game” (chasing money and speed) to the “new game” (purpose and awareness) 🔹 The 4-part cycle: disruption → reflection → transformation → evolution 🔹 How fear of AI can paralyze leaders — and what to choose instead 🔹 Why institutions like business, religion, and education must evolve for human connection 🔹 How to guide the next generation through uncertainty and change 🔹 Why slowing down is essential in a world that’s speeding up 🔹 What freedom means in the age of AI Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "AI is a cosmic mirror. It reflects who we are — and who we’re becoming." 💬 "The old game of chasing money and speed is over. The new game is purpose." 💬 "As machines become more intelligent, it’s on us to become more wise." 💬 "The purpose of business is to serve humanity — not just profit." Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Don’t resist AI — learn to see it as a mirror for your own growth ✅ Reframe business decisions through the lens of human flourishing ✅ Create space in your life for reflection: meditation, nature, stillness ✅ Recognize that disruption can be the doorway to transformation ✅ Step into your own heroic journey — and help others do the same Resources from this episode: → Learn more about Jeff: https://www.jeffburningham.com/ → Connect with Jeff on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeff-burningham-15a01a7b/ → Get the book The Last Book Written by a Human: https://www.amazon.com/Last-Book-Written-Human-Becoming/dp/1637634560 Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, AI, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com

Your business will only grow as much as you do. And if you’ve hit a plateau in revenue, fulfillment, or clarity — the answer probably isn’t a new strategy. It’s you. Marina Suholutsky is the founder of Purpose Built and a former IBM executive who left the corporate world to help high achievers navigate major life and leadership transitions. From burnout to boredom, from “should” to self, she helps leaders uncover the inner shifts that unlock the next chapter. In this episode, Marina shares why personal growth and business growth are inseparable — and how to move through the transition moments that test your courage. She unpacks her Four Directions model (mind, body, heart, spirit), the role of cultural context in leadership, and why vulnerability creates more capacity than grit ever will. We talk about: 🔹 The “trust fall” moment that launched Marina’s business 🔹 Why burnout is your body telling the truth 🔹 The hidden blind spots created by trauma (big and small) 🔹 How to uncover your intrinsic drivers — and let go of “shoulds” 🔹 The Four Directions model for navigating growth 🔹 How cultural context shapes leadership styles 🔹 Why wholeness is the key to true freedom Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “Your business only grows to the extent that you grow.” 💬 “The body tells the truth.” 💬 “Wholeness is freedom.” 💬 “Capacity starts with knowing where you’re at — and saying it out loud.” Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Pause regularly to ask if what mattered 5 years ago still matters today ✅ Check in with your “capacity” before overcommitting ✅ Listen to your body as a source of truth, not an obstacle ✅ Identify and challenge “injected drivers” — the shoulds you’ve inherited ✅ Embrace wholeness as the foundation for lasting freedom Resources from this episode: → Connect with Marina: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marina-suho/ → Learn more about Purpose Built: https://purposebuilt.io/ → Sign up for Marina’s newsletter, The Pause for Entrepreneurs: https://purposebuilt.io/newsletter Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, growth, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com

AI isn’t just a tool — it’s a leadership skill. And if you’re still treating it like a fancy assistant, you’re already falling behind. Geoff Woods is the founder of AI Leadership and author of The AI-Driven Leader, the #1 bestselling book on strategic AI for executives. As former Chief Growth Officer of Jindal Steel & Power, Geoff helped grow the company’s market cap from $750M to $12B in four years — not by outsourcing AI, but by rethinking how leaders lead. In this episode, Geoff breaks down why AI isn’t about tech — it’s about mindset. He shares a powerful daily habit that’s helping CEOs think bigger, lead smarter, and unlock new levels of strategic clarity. From creating an AI-powered “board of advisors” to reshaping how leadership teams think about growth, Geoff lays out a practical playbook for becoming an AI-driven leader. We talk about: 🔹 Why most leaders are using AI wrong — and how to shift 🔹 The CRIT framework for writing smarter, more strategic prompts 🔹 How to use AI as your thought partner, not just a task-doer 🔹 The mindset shift from 10x to 250x growth 🔹 Why leaders can’t delegate AI — and what happens if they try 🔹 How to create your own AI board (and why Geoff put Steve Jobs on his) 🔹 Why AI is a liberator, not just a disruptor 🔹 The five human skills that matter more than ever in the age of AI Whether you’re running a billion-dollar company or just starting to explore AI, this conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, growth, and your future. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "You are the thought leader. AI is your thought partner." 💬 "Most CEOs aren’t asking the wrong questions — they’re not asking any at all." 💬 "Don’t delegate the future of your company to IT. Lead it yourself." 💬 "What if the thing that’s holding you back isn’t the tech — it’s how you think?" Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Use the CRIT framework: Context, Role, Interview, Task ✅ Write one AI prompt every day — even just on a sticky note ✅ Stop focusing on 80% tasks and start thinking strategically ✅ Surround yourself with thinkers who challenge your vision ✅ Remember: the leader, not the tool, creates the competitive advantage Resources from this episode: → Connect with Geoff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/geoff-woods-8534774 → Learn more about AI Leadership: https://www.aileadership.com → Get the book The AI-Driven Leader: https://www.aileadership.com/book Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more leaders build for freedom, not just scale. 🎧 For more conversations on leadership, AI, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com

Kevin B. Jennings is a business coach, speaker, and personal brand strategist who helps creatives and leaders turn their ideas into impact. As the CEO of Junction 32, he’s worked with influential voices like Oprah Winfrey, Tony Robbins, Dave Ramsey, and more — helping them build trust, serve better, and scale smarter. In this episode, Kevin breaks down how trust, reputation, and personal branding all stem from one thing: how you show up for people, day after day. From the way we repair mistakes to the moments we empower our teams, trust is the foundation of growth, especially in uncertain times. We talk about: Why marketing is an act of service, not persuasion The difference between a personal brand and a platform How “bids” — small signals of connection — are the true currency of trust What leaders can do when trust breaks down Why consistency and clarity matter more than being perfect How empowering employees builds faster trust with customers What to focus on during times of uncertainty Kevin’s powerful definition of freedom — and why it’s tied to impact Whether you're leading a team, growing your business, or refining your reputation, this conversation will challenge how you think about branding, marketing, and what it really means to build trust. Quotes from the Episode: "Perfection's not the goal. Trust is." "People buy your reputation before they buy your product." "A brand is just a reputation that scales."  "Empower your team to meet the bids — that’s where trust lives."  "Freedom is using your gifts to make the world better." Actionable Takeaways: Shift your view of marketing from selling to serving Build your personal brand by earning trust, not attention Watch for “bids” — those small signals that matter most to customers and teams When things go wrong, don’t panic — repair with care Double down on what works instead of chasing new trends Lead with credibility, clarity, and courage during uncertainty Empower your team to act without waiting for approval Resources from this episode:→ Learn more about Kevin: https://www.kevinbjennings.com→ Connect with Kevin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinbjennings→ Explore the Small Giants Community: https://www.smallgiants.org

Freedom isn’t just about money — it’s about how you build the place you spend half your life. Most founders miss what true ownership can unlock until they’re already stuck. Carl Erickson started Atomic Object after a failed startup imploded. He turned it into one of the most admired software consultancies out there by making employees owners from day one. Over twenty years, Carl pushed extreme programming, radical pairing, and direct ownership, building a company designed to last a century. In this episode, Carl breaks down how Extreme Programming rewired their culture, why he rejected ESOPs for a more direct model, and how “Give a Shit” and “Own It” became more than just slogans — they transformed employees into real owners. We talk about: 🔹 Why extreme programming transformed more than just software quality 🔹 How pairing goes beyond developers — even Atomic’s co-CEOs are a pair 🔹 The hidden cost of ignoring culture in fast-growing companies 🔹 How Carl created a direct employee ownership plan that builds wealth for non-founders 🔹 Why hiring for cultural fit is essential — and how Atomic avoided “cowboys” and prima donnas 🔹 What it takes to protect a 100-year vision in the face of outside offers 🔹 How freedom after exit means choosing how you spend your days with purpose Whether you’re building a consultancy, scaling a startup, or planning your own exit, this conversation is a masterclass in creating a culture and ownership structure that outlasts you. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Extreme programming isn’t just coding faster — it’s building trust, quality, and culture." 💬 "Give a shit. Own it. Those are the two most important things we look for in people." 💬 "Companies become reflections of their founders — for better or worse." 💬 "Freedom is flexibility: the ability to do what you care about, without worrying about money." Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Don’t wait to codify your values — they’re already there in how your team behaves ✅ Consider direct ownership plans if you want employees to truly act like owners ✅ Focus on strategic principles like “Great, Not Big” instead of arbitrary growth targets ✅ Build your company’s culture intentionally — it’s easier than fixing it later ✅ Remember: growth should be a byproduct of excellence, not the goal itself Resources from this episode: → Connect with Carl: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-erickson → Learn about Atomic Object: https://atomicobject.com → Carl’s blog “Great Not Big”: https://greatnotbig.com Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more founders build freedom-first companies. 🎧 For more conversations on culture, ownership, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.  

Purpose isn’t a destination — it’s how you show up. And most leaders are looking for it in all the wrong places. Davin Salvagno is a bestselling author, speaker, and executive coach known for helping leaders reconnect with why they started — and who they’re becoming. He’s the co-founder of The Purpose Summit and author of Thieves of Purpose: Overcoming the 12 Mindsets Robbing You of Your Potential, a powerful guide to identifying what’s stealing your motivation. In this episode, Davin shares how leaders can rediscover purpose in both life and business — and why reconnecting with your “why” starts with your “who.” We talk about: 🔹 Why purpose is plural and momentary, not one big life goal 🔹 The difference between purpose and motivation 🔹 Why comparison, envy, and distraction rob us of fulfillment 🔹 How to reframe purpose to match the needs around you 🔹 What CEOs can do to reignite purpose in their teams 🔹 Why doubling down on purpose is the smartest move in a crisis Whether you’re feeling stuck, scaling your company, or leading through uncertainty, this conversation is a reminder that purpose isn’t something to find — it’s something to live. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Your purpose didn’t disappear. You just lost your why." 💬 "Purpose is who you are. Your why is what gets you moving." 💬 "Comparison invites envy. Gratitude brings you back to joy." 💬 "Ask your people why they chose to work for you — the answers will reignite everything." 💬 "Purpose is simple to pursue, but hard to sustain." Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Stop chasing job titles — focus on your gifts and the needs around you ✅ Reflect on who inspired you to start (that’s your who) ✅ Replace comparison with gratitude to recover lost motivation ✅ Reconnect your team with why they joined, not just what they do ✅ In a crisis, lead with purpose, not fear Resources from this episode: → Connect with Davin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/salvagno/ → Get the book Thieves of Purpose: https://www.amazon.com/Thieves-Purpose-Overcoming-Mindsets-Potential/ → Learn more about The Purpose Summit: https://www.thepurposesummit.com Like what you heard? Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more business owners build freedom-first companies. 🎧 For more conversations on purpose, people, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

AI isn’t just another tool — it’s a multiplier. But most business owners are missing the mark completely. Jeff MacPherson is a three-time tech founder, the creator of the first Instagram DM chatbot (yes, the one that handled nearly a billion messages), and now the co-founder of XnGen AI. He helps businesses turn their internal IP into scalable AI systems that drive real profit. In this episode, Jeff shares how business owners can stop chasing shiny tools and start building real leverage — even if they have no clue where to begin with AI.  We talk about:🔹 Why AI is an intern, not a savior🔹 The DNA framework: Data, Nurture, Automation🔹 How to build your own internal “AI Cloud”🔹 The mistake of plugging AI into broken systems🔹 How to train AI to onboard your next hire🔹 Where most founders get stuck (and how to break free) Whether you’re curious, cautious, or already experimenting, this is the conversation to help you build smarter and buy back your time. Quotes from the Episode:💬 "AI is an intern, not a magic bullet."💬 "Build your own AI cloud — not someone else’s tool."💬 "Freedom isn’t working less. It’s working on what matters."💬 "Most businesses don’t have an AI problem. They have a friction problem."💬 "You can’t train AI without training your team first." Actionable Takeaways:✅ Start with your internal knowledge: SOPs, values, mission, strategy✅ Centralize it in a simple tool like Airtable or build your AI cloud✅ Train AI on real business data, not prompts off the internet✅ Assign someone to own AI on your leadership team✅ Focus on one workflow. Get results. Then scale. Resources from this episode:→Connect with Jeff: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffmacai/→ Learn about XnGen AI: https://www.xngen.ai/→ Matt Farmer AI: https://www.instagram.com/mattfarmerai Like what you heard?Subscribe wherever you get your podcasts and leave a review. It helps more business owners build freedom-first companies.  🎧 If this episode made you rethink how to use AI in your business, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more conversations on purpose, people, and building companies that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

When your business disappears and the customer doesn’t blink, that’s a problem. Bill Mills is the CEO of Executive Group and author of Breakthrough: The Power of Conscious Conversation. He’s helped countless business owners build companies their customers can’t live without. In this episode, we talk about what separates good companies from great ones — and what it takes to become indispensable. We talk about: 🔹 Why execution isn’t your real problem 🔹 The difference between vision and distraction 🔹 What conscious conversation looks like in practice 🔹 The power of role complexity in scaling 🔹 How to build a company no one wants to leave 🔹 Why culture drives customer loyalty If you’re serious about building something that lasts — and creating freedom along the way — don’t miss this one. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "If 80% of your priorities get done, the 20% you missed probably held all the value." 💬 "When your business disappears and the customer doesn’t blink, that’s a problem." 💬 "Freedom is when you own the business — it doesn’t own you." 💬 "You don’t have an execution problem. You have a friction problem." 💬 "You can’t chase two rabbits. Focus is the difference-maker." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Executive Group: https://executivegroup.com 📘 Breakthrough: The Power of Conscious Conversation 🎓Elliot Jaques & Tom Foster on Complexity and Role Fit📊Gallup & University of Toronto Research on Manager Impact📈 The 10x CEO Study (via Inc. Magazine)  Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Diagnose the Gap: Use a force field analysis to identify what’s driving results — and what’s holding your team back. ✅ Stop Being Replaceable: Build a business your customers can’t imagine living without. ✅ Share the Wheel: Real power-sharing builds trust and drives scale. ✅ Build Around One Problem: Nail the one thing you solve better than anyone else — and scale from there. ✅ Rethink Execution: It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing the right things — all the way through. 🎧 If this episode made you think differently about leadership, growth, or freedom, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more conversations on purpose, people, and building businesses that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Elizabeth Glasbrenner — CEO of Smiley Technologies, a family-owned business providing core banking software to community banks and financial institutions. Elizabeth’s story is one of courage, clarity, and people-first leadership. After co-founding the business in 2002 with her brother Vance and father Walter, she stepped into the CEO role in 2016 — not just to scale the company, but to rebuild trust, reshape the culture, and guide the business through a period of rapid growth. In this conversation, Elizabeth opens up about what it took to make that transition. From navigating imposter syndrome to balancing extreme personal challenges — including her husband’s Everest expedition and her daughter’s life-threatening health issues — she shares what it really looks like to lead with empathy and authenticity, even when the stakes are high. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Leadership Shift Why the leader who starts the business isn’t always the one to scale it — and how Elizabeth found her own leadership voice. 🔹 Building Trust from the Inside Out How Elizabeth rebuilt trust in the organization after stepping into her brother’s shoes — and why listening was her first strategy. 🔹 Leading Through Personal Crisis Balancing high-stakes leadership with an intense family situation — and the strength that came from showing up fully in both. 🔹 Quiet Strength Why vulnerability, empathy, and consistency became her edge — and how that reshaped the culture at Smiley Technologies. 🔹 Freedom and Leadership What freedom means when you're responsible for others — and how Elizabeth learned to lead in a way that aligned with her values. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "You don’t need to know all the answers. You need to ask the right questions." 💬 "Trust is everything. Without it, nothing moves." 💬 "I thought I had to prove myself. What I really needed to do was show up as myself." 💬 "Listening was the most powerful thing I did as a new CEO." 💬 "Freedom is finding calm in the chaos." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Smiley Technologies: https://www.smileytechnologies.com 📲 Connect with Elizabeth: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-glasbrenner/ 📚 Books Mentioned – The Speed of Trust by Stephen M.R. Covey – Dare to Lead by Brené Brown – Quiet by Susan Cain Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Step Into the Role: You don’t need to be the same kind of leader as your predecessor — just the one your business needs next. ✅ Lead with Empathy: Listening is often more powerful than directing. ✅ Rebuild from Trust: Sustainable growth starts inside the team. ✅ Embrace Your Season: Life and business don’t happen in separate lanes — lead with full presence. ✅ Redefine Success: It's not about doing more — it's about doing what matters most. 🎧 If this episode made you think differently about leadership, growth, or freedom — subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more conversations on purpose, people, and building businesses that last, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Ken Sanginario—turnaround expert, value growth strategist, and founder of CVM, The Value Growth Company. Ken spent nearly two decades being parachuted into distressed companies by investors, banks, and private equity firms, tasked with answering one brutal question: Can this company be saved, or is it time to shut it down? Today, Ken helps business owners see what most miss — the hidden weaknesses holding their businesses back — and shows them how to double or even triple their company's value without chasing endless revenue. We dive into Ken’s fascinating journey, the patterns he discovered working inside distressed and healthy businesses alike, and why building a sustainable, transferable company is the real measure of success. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: Fragility in Business: Why most businesses are only one shock away from distress — even if they seem healthy today. Value Over Revenue: How chasing top-line growth without infrastructure can actually destroy company value. The Eight Functional Areas of Strength: Ken’s framework for building sustainable, scalable businesses that attract premium buyers. Turnarounds and Core Competencies How identifying your true core strength can unlock new growth opportunities — and save a struggling business. Building for Transferability Why owner-dependent businesses aren't businesses at all—and how to fix it before it's too late. Preparing for Due Diligence How to avoid the "due diligence slaughterhouse" and keep control of your exit. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Most companies could double their value without increasing revenue or profit — just by strengthening their foundation." 💬 "Revenue is an output, not an input." 💬 "If your business can’t survive without you, you don’t own an asset — you own a job with overhead." 💬 "Every company has blind spots. The sooner you find them, the stronger you get." 💬 "Freedom comes when your business no longer needs you to survive." Links & Resources Mentioned:🌍 Ken’s Website: https://www.corporatevalue.net/ 📘 Learn about the Value Opportunity Profile (VOP) and Certified Value Growth Advisor (CVGA) Program 📲 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ksanginario/ 📚 Books Mentioned The Goal by Eliyahu M. Goldratt – foundational for understanding the theory of constraints and business systems. Finish Big by Bo Burlingham – critical reading for business owners preparing for an exit. Traction by Gino Wickman – referenced during the conversation around building operational discipline. Buy Then Build by Walker Deibel – mentioned during discussions around acquisition, entrepreneurship, and value growth. Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Build Value, Not Just Revenue: Strengthen your business before chasing growth. ✅ Identify Blind Spots: Know where your company's true weaknesses are hiding. ✅ Focus on Core Competency: Your real opportunity lies in mastering your best capability. ✅ Prepare Early for Exit: Build a company that's transferable — even if you’re not selling today. ✅ Redefine Freedom: True entrepreneurial freedom comes when your business thrives without you. 🎧 If this episode shifted how you think about business value, growth, or freedom—subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more conversations on freedom, leadership, and legacy, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Lloyd James Ross—entrepreneur, investor, international speaker, and host of the hit podcast Money Grows on Trees. Lloyd has built multiple seven-figure businesses, earned a Two Comma Club Award from ClickFunnels, and holds the Legacy Club Millionaire title with Isagenix. But beyond the accolades, what truly sets Lloyd apart is his approach to time. In this conversation, we explore the concept of becoming “time rich,” and how business owners can stop trading time for money—and start building systems that buy their time back. We also dive into Lloyd’s fascinating backstory, including how watching his father lose and rebuild a business empire shaped his purpose. Plus, we get a sneak peek into his upcoming book, Become Time Rich, and why this message is more relevant than ever for entrepreneurs craving freedom. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 Time Over Money Why financial wealth is incomplete without time freedom—and how to pursue both intentionally. 🔹 Systems Create Freedom The real reason most entrepreneurs stay stuck—and how to build systems that run without you. 🔹 Lessons from Loss How Lloyd’s father lost a $50M business overnight, and the lessons Lloyd carried forward from that experience. 🔹 The Power of Partnerships Why A-player partners, not employees, have been the key to Lloyd’s business success. 🔹 The Four Laws of Being Time Rich Lloyd introduces the four key principles that underpin his philosophy of time richness. 🔹 Redefining Real Estate and Wealth Why Lloyd doesn’t invest in real estate—and how shares, liquidity, and business equity drive greater flexibility and cash flow. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "The busier you are, the poorer you get." 💬 "I want to be free financially." 💬 "Real estate's boring." 💬 "You want to be the arranger of things." 💬 "I’ve never written an SOP in my life." 💬 "The busy man has no time to make money." 💬 "It's about getting rid of commuting." 💬 "I love to give the wisdom that I have." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Lloyd’s Website: https://www.lloydjross.com 📘 Pre-order Become Time Rich on Amazon 🎧 Podcast: Money Grows on Trees 📲 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lloydjamesross/ 📚 Books Mentioned Secrets of the Millionaire Mind by T. Harv Eker The E-Myth Revisited by Michael E. Gerber - a major influence on Lloyd’s thinking about systems, business structure, and creating leverage. He quotes the line: "Pretend that your business is a prototype for 5,000 more just like it."  Buy Back Your Time by Dan Martell - Lloyd references this but says he intentionally waited to read it until after writing his book, Become Time Rich. The core concept aligns with his theme of time leverage.  The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry by John Mark Comer - cited by Lloyd as a pivotal book that helped him rethink overscheduling and hustle culture.  Elon Musk by Walter Isaacson - was mentioned by Lloyd as a source of inspiration, pushing him to operate at a higher level. Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Buy Back Your Time: Systems, leverage, and great people are the true wealth multipliers. ✅ Stop Glorifying Busy: If your calendar is always full, you're not winning—you’re trapped. ✅ Build to Exit, Even If You Don’t Exit: Create businesses that run without you. ✅ Get Strategic with Wealth Creation: Diversify into shares and scalable business models. ✅ Define Your Version of Freedom: Align your business with the lifestyle you actually want. 🎧 If this episode sparked a new way of thinking about time, systems, or success—subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more conversations on freedom, leadership, and legacy, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Kelly O’Finnell—President of EFS ESOP Consultants, author of The ESOP Coach, and one of the leading voices in employee ownership and business succession planning. With over four decades in the field, Kelly has helped countless business owners transition their companies into ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans), creating incredible wealth and preserving company culture. In our conversation, we explore how ESOPs aren’t just an exit strategy—but a powerful tool to build legacy, drive alignment, and close the wealth gap for employees. Kelly shares real-world stories, including one about a mailroom employee who walked away with over $4 million, and lays out why ESOPs are increasingly relevant in today’s world of aging business owners and cultural misalignment with third-party buyers. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Power of ESOPs ESOPs aren’t just retirement plans—they're a wealth creation vehicle that protects employees, sustains culture, and offers business owners full value without sacrificing legacy. 🔹 Succession Without Selling Your Soul Kelly explains how ESOPs serve as an internal transition strategy that allows owners to stay involved while rewarding the people who built the business with them. 🔹 Tax Benefits & Financial Strategy We break down the two major tax advantages of ESOPs, including how 100% ESOP-owned S-Corps can operate tax-free. 🔹 Creating Cultural Alignment Why culture is one of the most vulnerable parts of a traditional sale—and how ESOPs ensure continuity and employee engagement for the long haul. 🔹 Keys to Successful Implementation From employee education to communication plans and feasibility studies, Kelly shares what it really takes to make an ESOP thrive. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "ESOPs can change lives." 💬 "It's a way to exit without selling your soul." 💬 "An ESOP can close the wealth gap." 💬 "You can't be Gordon Gekko just focused on yourself." 💬 "You have a fiduciary obligation to run this business." 💬 "You can operate your business without tax consequences." 💬 "Cultural alignment is crucial to ESOP success." 💬 "When employees become owners, everything changes." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Kelly’s Website: https://www.efsconsultants.com 📚 Book: The ESOP Coach – Available on Amazon 🔗 Connect with Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyofinnell/ Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Think Legacy: ESOPs give you a way to exit while preserving the identity and values of your company. ✅ Explore Your Options: Selling to private equity isn’t your only path—consider internal transitions. ✅ Invest in Education: ESOP success depends on consistent employee communication and engagement. ✅ Plan Ahead: Start with a feasibility study to see if your company is the right fit. ✅ Shift Your Mindset: From owner to steward—align your leadership with a new generation of employee-owners. 🎧 If this episode inspired you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on leadership, succession, and building a legacy of freedom, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Amy Courter—former national commander and CEO of the Civil Air Patrol, where she led 61,000 volunteers as a two-star Major General. Amy's leadership journey is nothing short of extraordinary, from the Pentagon to tech startups, from taking a company public to coaching leadership teams as an EOS Implementer. We explore why vision is a leader’s most important compass, the power of vulnerability-based trust, and how healthy conflict builds strong, resilient teams. Amy shares how her parents shaped her entrepreneurial spirit, what it means to lead with values, and why your front-line employees' micro-decisions reveal the real culture of your business. If you’re leading a team, navigating a career transition, or building a values-driven business—this episode is packed with lessons you won’t want to miss. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes 🔹 Leading with Vision & Values Amy reveals why vision isn’t optional—it’s essential. If leaders can’t clearly define and live the vision, neither will their teams. 🔹 Vulnerability-Based Trust & Healthy Conflict Learn how high-performing teams create space for tough conversations and why trust is the foundation for real accountability. 🔹 From Corporate to Entrepreneurial Leadership Amy shares how growing up with entrepreneurial parents influenced her career—from massive corporations to agile coaching today. 🔹 Micro-Decisions & Organizational Culture The decisions made by frontliners—often unconsciously—reflect whether your company truly lives its core values. 🔹 Intentionality & Saying “No” In a world of endless opportunity, Amy explains why “No” is a whole sentence—and a critical one for staying focused and free. Quotes from the Episode 💬 "Vision is important—and if I don't believe in it, I walk away." 💬 "We need to have healthy conflict." 💬 "Team health really is an important part of leadership." 💬 "Freedom for me is that ability to make choices." 💬 "Storytelling is how we bring the vision to life." 💬 "No is a whole sentence." Links & Resources Mentioned 🔗 Connect with Amy Courter on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amycourter 📘 Book Mentioned: Shine by Gino Wickman & Rob Dube 📘 Book Mentioned: The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni 📘 Book Mentioned: The 6 Types of Working Genius by Patrick Lencioni Actionable Takeaways ✅ Lead with Vision – Set and share a compelling direction for your team. ✅ Build Vulnerability-Based Trust – Foster open, honest conversations without fear. ✅ Pressure Test Your Core Values – Do your decisions match your words? ✅ Watch the Micro-Decisions – Culture is shaped by how everyday choices get made. ✅ Say “No” More Often – Protect your time, energy, and freedom by staying focused. ✅ Keep Climbing – Success isn’t the end—there’s always another mountain ahead. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help us bring more real conversations and actionable leadership insight your way. For more resources and expert interviews, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Joel Trammell—Chairman and Founder of CEO-S, author of The CEO Tightrope and The Chief Executive Operating System, and a seasoned entrepreneur who has spent over three decades in the CEO seat. Joel shares hard-earned wisdom from scaling startups to leading a billion-dollar public company. We dive into the unique mindset shifts that CEOs must make as their companies grow—from wearing every hat in a 20-person startup to leading a functional executive team in a 150+ person organization. Joel introduces his Triangle of Tension framework, explains how CEOs can unlock clarity and communication, and explores why emotional intelligence and self-awareness are vital in the pursuit of personal and entrepreneurial freedom. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Triangle of Tension Joel breaks down the constant balancing act CEOs must perform between customers, employees, and shareholders—and why ignoring any one of them can lead to failure. 🔹 Scaling the CEO Role From 1 to 150 employees, the CEO job transforms radically. Joel outlines the three key growth phases and what founders must do to avoid becoming the bottleneck in their business. 🔹 Clarity and Communication Joel emphasizes why clarity in roles, KPIs, and communication is the true superpower of a successful CEO. We also explore how a CEO User Manual can help build stronger leadership teams. 🔹 Understanding Personality Types You can’t lead everyone the same way. Joel shares how tools like DiSC and CliftonStrengths help leaders tailor communication and improve team dynamics. 🔹 Emotional Intelligence & Self-Awareness Leadership isn’t just about strategy. Joel explains why mastering your inner game is critical to thriving in the CEO seat—and why entrepreneurship is as much a path to freedom as it is a challenge in resilience. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "CEOs are actually weird." 💬 "The organization ran like crap." 💬 "The job is totally different." 💬 "What do I do Monday morning?" 💬 "It's a constant balancing act." 💬 "Don't read between the lines." 💬 "Communication is what the audience hears—not just what you say." 💬 "You have to functionalize." 💬 "There is a solution." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Joel’s Website: https://www.theceooperatingsystem.com 📚 Books: The Chief Executive Operating System | The CEO Tightrope 🔗 Connect with Joel on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joeltrammell/ Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Embrace the Transition: Understand how your role evolves from startup leader to enterprise CEO. ✅ Clarify Roles & KPIs: Create clear metrics and responsibilities for your executive team. ✅ Balance the Triangle: Stay strategic in managing stakeholder tension. ✅ Communicate with Intention: Tailor your leadership style to different personality types. ✅ Prioritize Personal Growth: Emotional intelligence and self-awareness are foundational to success. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on leadership, growth, and reclaiming your freedom, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Garth Jemmett, Founder and CEO of We Explain Stuff™️, a consultancy that helps businesses articulate powerful value propositions that drive sales and simplify marketing. Garth shares his journey from creative director to business owner and how he helps founders and teams distill their value propositions into clear, visual sales collateral. We explore why so many businesses unknowingly hold themselves back by selling features instead of outcomes, and how niching down can increase authority and reduce sales friction. If you’re struggling to communicate your business value, or if your sales team needs better tools to close deals, this episode is packed with actionable insights to sharpen your message and unlock growth. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes 🔹 The Importance of a Clear Value Proposition Garth explains why businesses often fail to communicate the transformation they offer, leading to confusion and lost sales opportunities. 🔹 Niching Down for Authority & Simpler Sales Learn how narrowing your focus positions you as an industry expert, builds trust, and makes it easier to close deals. 🔹 From Complexity to Clarity – Visualizing Value Discover Garth’s “From, To, Through” framework to simplify complex offerings and help clients quickly understand the benefits. 🔹 How to Align Your Sales Team Why your team struggles to sell without a unified message and how to create simple, outcome-focused sales collateral that actually works. 🔹 Entrepreneurial Freedom & Sustainable Growth Garth shares how refining your value proposition can remove the founder from being the bottleneck and create more freedom while scaling. Quotes from the Episode 💬 "Value sits at the heart of what you do." 💬 "You need to be able to visualize that value." 💬 "Sales is where the rubber hits the road." 💬 "Value creation is about transformation." 💬 "You can't have a blunt spear." Links & Resources Mentioned 🌍 We Explain Stuff Website: https://www.weexplainstuff.com/ 🔗 Connect with Garth on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garthjemmett/ Actionable Takeaways ✅ Simplify Your Value Proposition – Focus on the transformation you offer, not just features or benefits. ✅ Niche Down to Stand Out – Specializing boosts your credibility and helps reduce friction in sales conversations. ✅ Visualize Your Value – Use simple, one-page frameworks and clear visuals to articulate your offer. ✅ Align Your Team – Create sales collateral that your entire team can confidently use. ✅ Continuously Evolve – Regularly refine your value proposition based on market changes and client feedback. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help us bring more top-tier insights to you. For more resources and expert interviews, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Josh Leatherman, Chief Marketing Officer at Service Express, who has played a pivotal role in scaling the company from $30 million to over $350 million in revenue. Josh shares how he built a high-performing marketing team, why revenue operations is the "Switzerland" between sales and marketing, and how experimentation, accountability, and specialization drive scalable business growth. We explore his R&D mindset—"Rip Off & Duplicate", the importance of aligning marketing and sales, and why marketers must be insatiable learners to stay ahead. If you're struggling with marketing ROI or trying to build a predictable revenue engine, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes 🔹 The Power of "Rip Off & Duplicate" (R&D)Josh explains why you don’t need to reinvent the wheel — instead, learn from industry leaders, implement what works, and focus on one channel at a time to drive revenue. 🔹 Revenue Operations: The Bridge Between Sales & Marketing – Josh shares why RevOps serves as a neutral, objective team that ensures alignment between sales and marketing, eliminating friction and creating a data-driven system for scaling revenue. 🔹 Accountability at Every Stage of the Funnel - Marketing and sales must own their roles — every lead, every account, and every stage of the funnel should have clear accountability to ensure conversion. 🔹 The Ideal Team Player: Humble, Hungry, Smart – Josh reveals how he builds high-performance teams by hiring curious, adaptable, and driven people who thrive in a fast-moving environment. 🔹 Mastering One Marketing Channel Before Expanding – Instead of spreading your budget thin, get exceptionally good at one channel (SEO, intent marketing, paid search, etc.), optimize it for ROI, then scale. 🔹 Identifying & Hiring Natural Learners - Josh discusses why hiring naturally curious and self-driven marketers leads to long-term success, and shares how he identifies high-potential talent in interviews. Quotes from the Episode 💬 "Rip off and duplicate—someone else has already figured it out." 💬 "Revenue operations is the Switzerland between sales and marketing." 💬 "Fail fast, learn faster, and scale what works." 💬 "Marketers must be insatiably curious." 💬 "If you don’t know what good looks like, how can you hold others accountable?" Links & Resources Mentioned 🌍 Service Express Website: https://www.serviceexpress.com 🔗 Connect with Josh on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshleatherman Actionable Takeaways ✅ Adopt an R&D Mindset – Learn from industry leaders instead of reinventing strategies. ✅ Leverage Revenue Operations – Use RevOps to align sales and marketing for predictable growth. ✅ Master One Channel First – Specialize before expanding into multiple marketing platforms. ✅ Encourage Small Experiments – Fail fast, learn fast, and scale proven marketing efforts. ✅ Hire for Curiosity – Seek out marketers who are lifelong learners and adaptable. 🎧 Enjoyed this episode? Subscribe, share, and leave a review to help us bring more top-tier insights to you. For more resources and expert interviews, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.

Matt’s journey started in 2004 as a summer intern. Today, he leads an 80-person civil engineering firm ranked among the Top 5 Best Firms to Work For in the nation—not by accident, but through a deliberate approach to leadership, decision-making, and ownership. We dive into the unique decision-making filter that guides every major move at Choice One, their employee ownership model, and how they’ve built a company that grows for opportunity—not just for the sake of growth. Matt shares how Choice One’s flat structure, intentional hiring, and commitment to culture have created a business that isn’t just successful but one that employees are proud to be part of. If you’ve ever wondered how to create a thriving business without chasing growth for growth’s sake, this episode is for you. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 Decision-Making That Aligns with Purpose Matt shares how Choice One runs every major decision through a structured filter—ensuring alignment with their core purpose, vision, and values before taking action. 🔹 The Difference Between Growth for Opportunity vs. Growth for Growth’s Sake Matt explains why blindly chasing revenue targets is a trap, and how Choice One has built a strategy around opportunity-driven growth instead. 🔹 An Ownership Model That Engages Employees Instead of a traditional ESOP, Choice One developed a custom ownership structure that gives employees a real stake in the company—without diluting leadership clarity. 🔹 Clarity, Culture, and Long-Term Thinking From monthly all-hands meetings to a 10-year vision, Matt discusses how transparency and intentional strategy drive sustained success. 🔹 Building a Business That Lasts for Generations Choice One isn’t looking for an exit—it’s building an evergreen company that will outlast its current leadership while staying true to its core values. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "We don’t grow just because we feel like we have to. We grow because an opportunity aligns with our purpose." 💬 "Ownership shouldn’t be something you’re handed—it should be something you choose to invest in." 💬 "The best leadership isn’t about pulling people toward your vision, but guiding a group toward a shared vision." 💬 "Success isn’t about revenue goals—it’s about building a business people love working for." Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Choice One Engineering: https://choiceoneengineering.com/ 🔗 Connect with Matt Hoying on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthoying/ Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Run decisions through a filter—define your purpose, vision, and values to guide growth. ✅ Be intentional about hiring—culture-fit matters more than speed when building a team. ✅ Design ownership structures that align with your business—don’t assume ESOPs are the only option. ✅ Plan for the long term—think in 10-year cycles, not just quarterly results. ✅ Create a business that serves people—employees, customers, and the community. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a thriving, intentional business, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com. 📢 Subscribe & ReviewIf you enjoyed this episode, please take a moment to follow the show and leave a rating or review on your favorite podcast platform. Your support helps us reach more business owners like you and continue bringing impactful conversations to The Freedom Experience!

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Tracy Bech, founder of 60 Minute CFO and author of 60 Minute CFO: Bridging the Gap Between Business and Finance. Tracy shares her journey from being a web developer to a multi-million dollar e-commerce entrepreneur and how she learned the critical financial lessons that now empower entrepreneurs to master business finance without being overwhelmed. We dive deep into why so many business owners struggle with cash flow despite showing profitability on paper, the importance of understanding the balance sheet, and how financial ratios can fine-tune your business engine. Tracy also breaks down her framework for navigating the four phases of business growth: Wonder, Blunder, Thunder, and Plunder. If you've ever wondered why your P&L looks great, but your bank account tells a different story, this episode is for you. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 Profit vs. Cash FlowTracy explains why a healthy profit and loss statement doesn’t always translate to cash in the bank. She shares her own hard-earned lessons on inventory management, reinvestment, and cash flow pitfalls that many entrepreneurs face. 🔹 Mastering Financial RatiosUnderstanding and using key financial ratios can provide a clearer picture of your business's health. Tracy reveals the 12 essential ratios that every business owner should track to make informed decisions. 🔹 The Four Phases of Business GrowthTracy introduces the four stages of business growth—Wonder, Blunder, Thunder, and Plunder—and how to navigate each one effectively. Learn how to avoid common financial mistakes that could lead to business decline. 🔹 Financial Fluency for LeadersBecoming financially fluent empowers leaders to make better business decisions. Tracy emphasizes why business owners need to understand their financials even before hiring a CFO. 🔹 Finding the Right Financial SupportTracy shares insights on how to hire the right bookkeeper, controller, and CFO and why financial advisors should be more than just “reporters of the news” but strategic partners in growth. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 "Profit on paper doesn’t mean cash in the bank. Understanding the balance sheet changes everything."💬 "If you can’t measure it, you can’t manage it. Financial ratios are the dials on your business engine."💬 "Business growth phases are inevitable—recognize them early to navigate them effectively."💬 "Become financially fluent before hiring out. If you don’t know what good looks like, how can you hold others accountable?" Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Tracy's Website: https://www.60minutecfo.com📚 Book: 60 Minute CFO: Bridging the Gap Between Business and Finance🔗 Connect with Tracy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracybech Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Understand Your Financials: Master the 12 key financial ratios to make informed business decisions.✅ Separate Profit from Cash: Realize the difference between profitability and cash flow to avoid financial pitfalls.✅ Plan for Growth Phases: Anticipate and navigate through Wonder, Blunder, Thunder, and Plunder phases.✅ Build the Right Team: Know the difference between a bookkeeper, controller, and CFO, and hire strategically.✅ Stay Financially Fluent: Learn to read your financials before outsourcing to maintain control and vision. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on mastering business finance and building a resilient company, visit www.jeanmoncrieff.com.    

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with John Abrams, founder of South Mountain Company and a pioneer in employee ownership. John transitioned his company into a worker cooperative in the 1980s—long before employee ownership became a mainstream conversation. Now, with his upcoming book, From Founder to Future: A Business Roadmap to Impact, Longevity, and Employee Ownership, he’s on a mission to help more business owners build companies that endure. We explore what it really takes to transition a business from founder-led to employee-owned, the risks of private equity takeovers, and why sharing ownership creates stronger, more resilient companies. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Shift to Employee OwnershipJohn shares his journey of converting South Mountain Company into a worker cooperative and the unexpected benefits it brought—not just for employees but for the company’s long-term success. 🔹 Protecting Your Business from Private Equity TakeoversMany business owners assume selling to private equity is their only option, but John explains how alternative ownership models like ESOPs, worker co-ops, and employee ownership trusts can preserve a company’s mission. 🔹 The Five Transitions to a CommonWealth CompanyJohn introduces the concept of CommonWealth Companies and the five critical transitions—Ownership, Leadership, Mission, Governance, and Impact—that can help a business thrive beyond the founder. 🔹 Aligning Business with a Bigger PurposeJohn discusses how business owners can shift their mindset from chasing short-term growth to creating an enduring company that serves employees, customers, and the community. 🔹 The Future of Employee OwnershipWith millions of baby boomer business owners retiring, we talk about why employee ownership is gaining traction and how it can reshape the economy by reducing wealth inequality. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “The mentality of ‘they’ll have to drag me out of here feet first’ is a path to disaster. These transitions take planning.”💬 “When employees have a stake in the business, they think and act like owners—and that changes everything.”💬 “Selling to the wrong buyer can leave founders with fat wallets and broken hearts. Employee ownership offers another way.” Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 John’s Website: https://abramsangell.com📚 From Founder to Future (Book): https://bit.ly/3C6vyQt🔗 Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-abrams-3bb94683/🌍 Project Equity (Employee Ownership Resource): https://project-equity.org/ Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Start planning your business transition before you're ready to retire—separate ownership transition from leadership transition.✅ Explore alternative ownership models (worker co-ops, ESOPs, EOTs) to see what best aligns with your values and long-term goals.✅ Think beyond short-term profit—companies that prioritize purpose and shared ownership tend to thrive in the long run. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a business that lasts, visit jeanmoncrieff.com.  

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Bo Burlingham, celebrated author of Small Giants, The Great Game of Business, and Finish Big, to discuss what it really takes to build a business that lasts. Bo has spent decades observing and writing about businesses that prioritize greatness over growth. In our conversation, we explore the principles of Evergreen companies, the importance of mojo, and why businesses with a clear purpose stand the test of time. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Principles of Evergreen CompaniesBo breaks down the seven core principles that define Evergreen companies—from Purpose to Perseverance—and explains why these timeless qualities contribute to long-term success. 🔹 Mojo: The Magnetic Force of Great BusinessesDiscover the concept of mojo and how it creates a magnetic pull that draws in employees, customers, and partners who genuinely care about the business. 🔹 The Purpose Behind ProfitWhy great companies view profit as a byproduct of serving their customers exceptionally well, rather than the ultimate goal. 🔹 Long-Term Thinking in a Short-Term WorldBo shares why Evergreen businesses adopt a long-term perspective, resisting the pressures of short-term gains and focusing instead on enduring impact. 🔹 Ownership Structures That Build LegacyWe explore how family-owned and employee-owned businesses preserve their core values across generations, ensuring that the company's legacy lives on. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “Growth for growth's sake isn't the answer. Great companies know what matters most and stick to it.”💬 “Mojo is like charisma for a business—it makes people want to be part of your story.”💬 “Evergreen businesses aren’t afraid to go against the grain. They prioritize people and purpose over short-term profits.” Links & Resources Mentioned: 🌍 Small Giants Community: https://smallgiants.org📚 Another Way: Building Companies That Last (Book): https://a.co/d/c0kvE4Z🔗 Connect with Bo Burlingham on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bo-burlingham Actionable Takeaways: ✅ Identify the core purpose that drives your business beyond profit.✅ Evaluate your business through the lens of the seven Evergreen principles.✅ Foster a sense of ownership and purpose across your team to build long-term resilience. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a purpose-driven, enduring business, visit jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Cate Zoltan, Founder and CEO of the Undo app, to explore a radically different approach to meditation. Cate shares how Natural Meditation helps people reconnect with their bodies, process unresolved emotions, and move away from rigid, goal-oriented techniques that often don’t work. We discuss the disconnect between the mind and body, why traditional meditation methods might not serve us in today’s world, and how true healing comes from feeling, not fixing. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 Why Traditional Meditation Might Not Work for YouCate explains why most meditation techniques rely on external structures that don’t address individual needs—and why reconnecting with your body is the key to real transformation. 🔹 Natural Meditation vs. Yogi-Based TechniquesShe breaks down the difference between Natural Meditation, which is body-based and intuitive, and technique-based meditation, which often imposes a structure that might not align with your personal experience. 🔹 The Body-Mind ConnectionHow stress, anxiety, and even physical pain are signals from the body—not just mental conditions—and how listening to these cues can lead to deep healing. 🔹 Releasing Emotional and Physical TensionCate shares how unresolved emotional experiences manifest in the body as tension and how meditation can help release these built-up pressures. 🔹 Meditation for the Modern WorldWhy trying to adopt a monk-like practice in a fast-paced, modern life isn’t practical—and what to do instead. 🔹 Freedom Through Self-AwarenessCate talks about the role of meditation in self-discovery, emotional resilience, and creating a life that aligns with who you truly are. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “Meditation isn’t about being calm, it’s about feeling how you actually feel.”💬 “Your body is always trying to heal itself—you just have to listen.”💬 “We’ve been taught to suppress and distract from our feelings, rather than process them.” Links & Resources Mentioned: 📱 Undo App: Undo App (where to download the app)🔗 Connect with Cate Zoltan on LinkedIn: Cate’s LinkedIn🧘‍♀️ Quiet Retreats (where to find the meditation retreats🎥  Matthew’s Youtube🤔  Our mental fitness quiz Actionable Takeaways: ✔️ Start by paying attention to how your body feels—without trying to change it.✔️ Question whether your meditation practice is actually serving you, or if you’re just following a technique without results.✔️ Experiment with different meditation styles to find what feels natural and sustainable. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on creating a fulfilling and balanced business and life, visit jeanmoncrieff.com.          

Episode Description: In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Peter Koehler, founder of Lumo Group, to explore alternative ownership models that help businesses endure beyond their founders. Peter shares his journey from the startup world to becoming a leader in employee ownership trusts and perpetual purpose trusts. We discuss the risks of traditional venture capital, the challenges of scaling with integrity, and how business owners can transition ownership while preserving their company’s values. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: 🔹 The Pitfalls of Traditional Capital:Peter shares his experience in a startup where investor expectations clashed with business sustainability, leading him to explore alternative ownership structures. 🔹 Employee Ownership Trusts vs. ESOPs:He breaks down the differences between ESOPs (Employee Stock Ownership Plans), Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs), and Perpetual Purpose Trusts (PPTs)—and which structure best aligns with different business goals. 🔹 Designing Your Ownership Transition:What should business owners consider when planning a transition? Peter explains how trust-based models can align business longevity with employee well-being. 🔹 The Leadership and Cultural Shift:Transitioning to an ownership trust isn’t just about financials—it requires a shift in governance, leadership, and company culture. 🔹 Financing the Transition:How can businesses fund an ownership transition? Peter discusses self-financing, external debt, and hybrid models that enable a smooth transition. 🔹 Why More Business Owners Are Considering Trust Models:With millions of business owners over 55 facing succession challenges, Peter explains why more founders are looking at ownership trusts as an alternative to private equity or strategic sales. Quotes from the Episode: 💬 “If you don’t design your ownership transition, someone else will do it for you.”💬 “A trust structure allows a business to exist beyond its founder, preserving its mission and protecting employees.”💬 “Freedom is about ownership and autonomy—having control over how your day unfolds.” Links & Resources Mentioned: Learn more about Lumo Group: Website link Peter’s conversation on 21 Hats: Podcast link Connect with Peter Koehler on LinkedIn: LinkedIn link Actionable Takeaways: ✔️ Start by clarifying your goals—what do you want your business to stand for after you step away?✔️ Understand the different ownership models and how they impact governance, leadership, and culture.✔️ If you're considering an ownership transition, engage with an expert early to map out your options. 🎧 If this episode resonated with you, subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a purpose-driven business, visit my website at jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I’m joined by Dominic Monkhouse, a business growth expert who has scaled two UK technology companies from zero to £30 million in less than five years. Dominic shares his proven strategies for creating high-performing teams, building intentional company cultures, and turning hiring into a competitive advantage. From his unique hiring techniques (think crayons and pictures!) to insights on why scaling requires CEOs to shift from basketball to football-style leadership, this conversation is packed with actionable insights for ambitious business leaders. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe! Key Themes: From Basketball to Football: Leadership EvolutionDominic explains why founders must shift from leading like basketball players to managing like football coaches to scale beyond 70 employees. Hiring A-Players and Building a Magnetic CultureLearn how Dominic built world-class teams by being intentional about hiring, creating an employer brand, and designing an office culture that attracted top talent. Accountability at ScaleDiscover why CEOs must stop managing through one-to-ones and empower their leadership teams to take full accountability. Intentionality in LeadershipDominic shares his personal definition of freedom and the intentional decisions he’s made to align his business with his values. Quotes from the Episode: “Would I enthusiastically rehire my team? If not, do something about it.” “Scaling is about eliminating poor players—not just building around the great ones.” “You don’t get a world-class team by accident; it requires intentionality.” “The CEO’s job is to make themselves redundant—so the business can scale.” Links & Resources Mentioned: Dominic Monkhouse: Website | LinkedIn Mind Your F**cking Business: Book Why Startups Play Basketball and Scale-ups Play Football (Soccer): Blog Why you need to ditch one-to-one meetings with your team: Article Actionable Takeaways: Audit your team: Ask, “Would I enthusiastically rehire each person?” Invest in your employer brand: Your workplace culture should attract A-players. Stop doing one-to-ones and let your leadership team take accountability. If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on leadership and scaling businesses, visit jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Patrick Thean, an international speaker, CEO coach, and bestselling author, to explore his remarkable journey and the powerful lessons shared in his new book, The Journey to CEO Success: 7 Practices for High Growth Leadership. From building Inc. 500 companies to guiding CEOs through high-growth challenges, Patrick shares his unique insights into leadership, execution, and cultivating curiosity as a driver of success. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube. Don’t forget to subscribe! Key Themes: Leadership Through CuriosityPatrick explains how curiosity, paired with humility, enables CEOs to build stronger connections, adapt to cultural differences, and uncover hidden opportunities. Execution Over StrategyDiscover why execution often outshines strategy in high-growth companies and how prioritization is the key to avoiding entrepreneurial burnout. Building and Aligning World-Class TeamsPatrick discusses why hiring for core values and fostering a culture of alignment leads to long-term success. The Role of Purpose in LeadershipPatrick shares his passion for purpose-driven work, from supporting Samaritan’s Feet to inspiring CEOs to reignite their dreams. Quotes from the Episode: “Replace fear with curiosity. What is it you don’t know about AI or the challenges your business faces?” “When you say yes to one thing, you are inadvertently saying no to others. Prioritization is the foundation of execution.” “Freedom is waking up every day with maximum joy for what you do.” Links & Resources Mentioned: Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn The Journey to CEO Success: 7 Practices for High Growth Leadership by Patrick Thean Rhythm Systems (Website) Samaritan’s Feet (Website) Actionable Takeaways: Audit your priorities—identify what you will NOT do this quarter. Practice visualization: Define what success looks like and align your team around it. Explore the intersection of AI and strategy in your business operations.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, Jean Moncrieff speaks with Bruce Eckfeldt, a seasoned entrepreneur, coach, and expert in agile development and strategic growth. Bruce shares his unconventional journey from architecture to founding a successful agile software development company and the valuable lessons he learned along the way. This conversation dives deep into the critical elements of scaling a business, preparing for an exit, and overcoming the personal challenges that often accompany these transitions. Bruce offers actionable insights into aligning business goals with personal values, building a sellable business, and navigating life after an exit. Whether you're just beginning to think about your exit strategy or actively preparing to sell, this episode is packed with valuable lessons to help you master the journey. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS: Understanding Your Why:Bruce explains why aligning personal and professional goals is the foundation of business success. Without a clear "why," scaling or exiting a business can feel meaningless and unfulfilling. Preparing for an Exit:Successful exits are built years in advance. Bruce highlights the importance of cleaning up financials, building a strong leadership team, and telling a compelling story to potential buyers. Freedom Through Choice:Freedom is about creating options. Bruce emphasizes how business owners can design their lives and careers around the choices that matter most to them. Links and Resources: Connect with Bruce Eckfeldt on LinkedIn Check out Bruce’s Amazon Vinyl Wishlist: Link Bruce's website: Link Watch all episodes of The Freedom Experience on YouTube

Welcome to this week’s edition of The Freedom Experience! In part two of this special year-end review, I reflect on three powerful themes that emerged from my conversations with incredible guests over the past year. These insights are designed to help you refine your strategy and set yourself up for success in 2025. 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! If you missed last week’s episode, be sure to check it out—we tackled escaping the CEO Doom Loop, aligning with your purpose, and building a strong leadership team. This week, we’re diving into three more game-changing themes: The importance of getting the right people in the right seats. The power of focus to eliminate distractions and drive progress. How long-term thinking can slow down time and create intentionality. Key Takeaways: People: The right people in the right roles create a winning team. Attracting A-players means offering more than just paychecks—it’s about purpose, culture, and alignment. Focus: Staying laser-focused on your top priorities means learning to say no to shiny objects and distractions. Long-Term Thinking: A 10-year vision reduces stress, creates clarity, and aligns short-term actions with long-term goals. Action Steps: Audit your team to ensure you have the right people in the right seats. Revisit your core values to guide hiring and decision-making. Identify your top 3-5 priorities for the year ahead and eliminate projects that don’t align with your goals. Block time to write your 10-year vision and share it with your team to create alignment and buy-in. Links & Resources: Learn more about the One-Page Personal Plan: jeanmoncrieff.com Book Recommendation: Can’t Hurt Me by David Goggins Connect with Paul Spiegelman’s Circle of Growth insights If you enjoyed today’s episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with an entrepreneur who could benefit from these insights. Your support helps us bring more value to entrepreneurs like you!

In this solo episode of The Freedom Experience®, host Jean Moncrieff reflects on key insights from past conversations and shares strategies for business owners to regain momentum as the new year approaches. Jean delves into three critical areas: escaping the CEO Doom Loop, the transformative power of purpose, and building high-performing leadership teams. With actionable advice and real-world examples, this episode equips entrepreneurs to break free from stagnation and lead their businesses with clarity and intention. 🎥 Watch this episode on YouTube, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Topics Covered: CEO Doom Loop: How reactive leadership traps CEOs in a cycle of firefighting. Recognizing the signs of over-dependence on yourself as a leader. Breaking free with strategic focus and empowered delegation. The Power of Purpose: Why core purpose acts as a North Star for your business. How to align daily operations with long-term goals. The importance of purpose in attracting and energizing top talent. Leadership for Growth: The key to building a leadership team smarter than yourself. Why emotional intelligence is a cornerstone for cohesive teams. Celebrating wins and learning from failures to drive momentum. Episode Highlights: “The CEO Doom Loop is like a black hole, pulling you deeper into reactive operations unless you actively step out of it.” “Purpose is your invisible leader—always guiding decisions and aligning your team with a common mission.” “Great businesses aren’t built by one genius—they’re built by teams of A-players who are empowered and aligned.” Action Steps: Evaluate your leadership team and make tough decisions where necessary. Revisit your core purpose and integrate it into daily decisions. Delegate operational tasks to focus on strategic initiatives. Foster a culture of emotional intelligence and collaboration. Celebrate both successes and failures to maintain energy and momentum. Links & Resources: Listen to the episodes mentioned: Richard Bryan, Paul Spiegelman, Glen Dall, Zach Mercurio, Eric Rieger, and Tom Walter.

Catherine Dahl is the former CEO of Beanworks, a fintech company specializing in accounts payable automation. Under her leadership, the company scaled from early struggles to a $100M exit. Today, she focuses on supporting early-stage fintech companies and mentoring women entrepreneurs. 🎥 Watch this conversation on YouTube, and don’t forget to SUBSCRIBE! Key Topics Covered From Accountant to CEO: Catherine’s unconventional path to leading a tech company and the lessons she learned as a non-technical founder. Building a Growth System: How systems like Metronomics helped Beanworks scale from $300,000 to $7 million in recurring revenue. Core Values in Action: The transformative impact of aligning leadership and team culture with core values. Navigating the Exit: Lessons from selling Beanworks for over $100 million and transitioning to life beyond the business. Advice for Founders: The importance of hiring the right leaders, creating clear accountability, and focusing on what you do best. Key Takeaways Systems are Essential: "You need a growth system if you want to scale fast with the least amount of pain." Culture Drives Success: Embedding core values into hiring and team processes ensures alignment and builds a thriving company culture. Hire for Growth: Finding the right leaders who can scale with the company is critical—“It took me seven tries to get it right.” Memorable Quotes "Freedom means choice—the ability to make decisions about how you spend your time, money, and energy." "If your core values aren’t baked into your hiring, you’ll struggle to create alignment." "The right team and the right systems are the key to scaling without unnecessary pain." Links & Resources Mentioned CEO & Leadership Team Cohort Coaching with Catherine Dahl & Matt Dion Learn about Beanworks: beanworks.com Explore Metronomics: metronomics.com Book Recommendation: Steve Jobs by Walter Isaacson Actionable Takeaways Create a scorecard for every senior hire to ensure clear expectations and accountability. Bake core values into hiring and onboarding processes to strengthen your culture. Use systems like Metronomics or Scaling Up to bring clarity and structure to your business strategy. If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, share it with your network, and leave a review. For more on building high-performing businesses, visit jeanmoncrieff.com.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Eric Rieger, Founder and CEO of WEBIT Services, to discuss his inspiring journey from making t-shirts to building a purpose-driven, employee-owned tech business. Eric opens up about the challenges of entrepreneurship, the lessons learned from early failures, and his commitment to addressing systemic issues like income inequality through innovative business practices. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Themes: The Entrepreneurial Journey: Eric reflects on his unconventional path to becoming a business owner, starting with his father’s bold advice to "use your credit card and go for it." He shares how resilience, resourcefulness, and a people-first approach helped him navigate early struggles and create lasting success. Employee Ownership and Income Inequality: Discover how Eric’s decision to transition WEBIT Services to employee ownership aligns with his mission to tackle income inequality. He dives into the challenges of implementing an ESOP, why purpose-driven leadership is essential, and how businesses can balance profit with social impact. The Importance of Visionary Leadership: Eric explains the delicate balance between having big dreams and building systems that align your team around them. He shares how frameworks like EOS and open-book finance have helped him focus his visionary style while empowering his team to thrive. Mental Health and Self-Awareness: Vulnerability is strength. Eric shares his personal journey of transformation, including the importance of therapy in addressing trauma, maintaining self-awareness, and building a sustainable leadership style. Quotes from the Episode: “Freedom is being your authentic self and having the resources to take care of your basic needs. Once you have that, you can pursue love, belonging, and purpose.” “Private equity is about making money make more money. Employee ownership is about helping people.” “If you don’t know your values, someone will buy them. And that’s not a price I’m willing to pay.” Links & Resources Mentioned: Learn more about WEBIT Services: webitservices.com Book recommendation: The Great Game of Business by Jack Stack Learn about the Entrepreneurial Operating System (EOS): eosworldwide.com More on Employee Ownership: nceo.org Actionable Takeaways: Reflect on your personal values and how they align with your business. Explore frameworks like Metronomics, EOS, or Great Game of Business to enhance team alignment and transparency. If you're a business owner or leader, consider how therapy or coaching can support your personal and professional growth. If this episode resonated with you, please subscribe, share, and leave a review. For more insights on building a purpose-driven business, visit my website at jeanmoncrieff.com.  

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Carl Saunders, the founder of VORUM, a pioneer in prosthetic and orthotic technology. Carl shares his journey from bootstrapping his business to scaling it into a global impact player. We discuss the lessons he learned from navigating growth plateaus, the importance of purpose-driven leadership, and how adopting systems like Metronomics transformed his business. Our conversation also touches on the decision to sell the company, the impact of distraction on business, and the necessity of building a strong sales team. Ultimately, Carl emphasizes the importance of growth and the willingness to adapt and seek coaching to achieve success. Whether you're an entrepreneur 'riding the tiger' or seeking clarity on your next growth phase, Carl's story offers valuable insights on leveraging purpose, building empowered teams, and making the leap from chaos to intentional growth. Key Takeaways: Ride the Tiger Strategy: Early in his journey, Carl and his partner embraced a reactive, opportunistic strategy, which brought energy and profitability but eventually led to a plateau and burnout. Transitioning to intentional growth through structured systems was a game-changer. The Power of Purpose: Defining VORUM’s purpose—to improve the quality of care for prosthetic and orthotic patients globally—became a rallying point for the team and a driver for their big, hairy, audacious goal (BHAG). Scaling with Systems: Adopting Metronomics helped Carl empower his team, reduce decision-making bottlenecks, and build a culture of accountability. The introduction of daily huddles and one-on-ones enabled better alignment and faster problem-solving. Learning from Failure: An attempted sale of the company highlighted the importance of having the right exit strategy and a leadership team capable of maintaining business momentum. Growth Requires Growth: A key insight from Carl’s story is that companies must grow to provide opportunities for their people. Stagnation risks losing top talent and ultimately jeopardizes the business. Quote of the Episode: "Our purpose wasn’t about revenue—it was about how often we could improve patients' lives globally. That’s what motivated us." – Carl Saunders Links & Resources: Learn more about Metronomics and business team coaching 🤯 VORUM’s impact story: From 120 seconds to a patient fitted every 62 seconds Connect with Carl Saunders on LinkedIn Connect with Us: Subscribe to The Freedom Experience on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or your favorite platform. Watch this episode on YouTube. Follow Jean Moncrieff on LinkedIn and Instagram.

Richard Bryan stepped into leadership at age 28, inheriting a struggling $120M family automotive business in the UK facing $3.5M in annual losses. Through radical decision-making and cultural transformation, he turned the company around by prioritizing mentorship, transparency, and building high-performing teams. Today, as a keynote speaker and executive coach, he helps business owners master succession planning and create sustainable enterprises that thrive without their constant presence. In our conversation, we explore the challenges of turning around a failing business, the importance of radical transparency in leadership, and the critical role of succession planning beyond just the CEO position. We discuss how removing toxic high performers can actually improve company culture, the significance of developing future leaders, and the unexpected challenges of finding purpose after a successful exit. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Quick, decisive action is crucial in business turnarounds True leadership means having the courage to seek help when needed Transparency with employees drives engagement and cultural change Sometimes, removing 'top performers' can improve overall performance Succession planning should encompass all key positions Creating growth opportunities is crucial for retaining top talent Freedom comes from building a business that runs without you Post-exit transition requires careful planning for personal fulfillment ⚡ KEY MOMENTS: 00:00 Intro 00:23 Family Business Background 02:42 The Distress Call from Home 04:37 First Critical Decisions 06:54 Bringing in Expert Help 12:12 Radical Business Changes 15:07 Creating Transparency 21:23 Building A-Player Teams 26:08 Succession Planning Journey 31:10 Developing Future Leaders 34:05 Managing Family Shareholders 38:52 Leadership Lessons 42:17 Life After Exit 43:46 Defining Freedom 💡 POWERFUL QUOTES: "The plan is we're going to make decisions every day and execute on them. As long as we get more right than we get wrong, we'll be fine." "We're going to change people or change people - either change their mindset or they're not right." "My superpower was actually convincing really smart people to come and work for me." "The best thing about it is I'm pretty sure I'm the dumbest person in the room." "Freedom means being able to stay in bed longer because my business runs fine without me." 📚 ABOUT RICHARD: Richard J. Bryan is a speaker, executive coach, and business advisor who specializes in: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Leadership Development Succession Planning Business Transformation Family Business Dynamics After successfully turning around and selling his family's automotive business, he now helps other business owners create sustainable enterprises and successful transition plans. 🔮 WHAT'S NEXT: Connect with Richard for speaking engagements and executive coaching opportunities 🔗 CONNECT WITH RICHARD: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Richard's website LinkedIn 📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Being Frank: Real Life Lessons To Grow Your Business and Yourself  🎧 LISTEN ON: iTunes, Spotify

Rob Dube's entrepreneurial path revealed a powerful truth: sustainable success starts from within. After building imageOne into a Forbes Small Giant, he discovered meditation and mindfulness weren't just personal practices - they transformed his leadership. Today, through the 10 Disciplines, his books "Shine" and "donothing," and his leadership retreats, Rob helps driven entrepreneurs find that elusive balance between remarkable business results and inner peace. His approach shows how slowing down, through practices like meditation and ten-year thinking, actually accelerates meaningful success. In our conversation, we explore the complexities of leadership, the journey to finding one's true self, and the importance of long-term thinking in entrepreneurship. We discuss the fears that leaders often face, the impact of societal expectations, and the significance of embracing the messy path of personal and professional growth. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Your true self is unshaped by societal expectations and professional roles Ten-year thinking helps slow down time and make better decisions Every business goes through predictable cycles over 10 years Being still is essential for connecting with your true self Understanding your "100%" is crucial for sustainable leadership Making decisions from love rather than fear transforms leadership What appears as "messy" is actually a beautiful process of growth ⚡ KEY MOMENTS: 00:00  Navigating Leadership Fears03:02  The Journey of Entrepreneurial Freedom06:00  Understanding the True Self08:54  The Impact of Societal Expectations11:47  The Weight of Secrets in Leadership15:06  10-Year Thinking: A Long-Term Perspective17:47  Embracing the Messy Path21:12  Finding Clarity in the Present Moment24:02  Lessons from Entrepreneurial Journeys31:18  Defining Company Values and Culture36:04  Navigating Leadership Transitions38:59  Shifting Perspectives on Business Ownership42:17  The Importance of Being Still51:16  Letting Go of Identity and Embracing Change 💡 POWERFUL QUOTES: "We oftentimes don't want people, especially in leadership roles, to recognize that we're actually afraid right now..." "In a ten-year cycle, you're going to have two great years, six really decent years, and two years that could literally put you out of business." "We're all unique, but one thing we all need is to be still. We have to let our minds and our bodies settle. We have to let our souls, our true self, catch up." 📚 ABOUT ROB: Rob Dube is an author, speaker, and entrepreneur whose company imageOne has been recognized as: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> One of Forbes' 25 Top Small Giants in America An Inc. Magazine Best Place to Work The #1 Top Workplace in Michigan He's the author of "Do Nothing" and co-author of "Shine" with Gino Wickman, focusing on helping entrepreneurs find true freedom through inner work. 🔮 WHAT'S NEXT: Explore Rob's 10 Disciplines program and group coaching opportunities 🔗 CONNECT WITH ROB: Rob's website LinkedIn 📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> "Shine: How Looking Inward is the Key to Unlocking True Entrepreneurial Freedom" by Rob Dube and Gino Wickman "Do Nothing" by Rob Dube The 10 Disciplines Program True Self Assessment Small Giants Community 🎧 LISTEN ON: iTunes, Spotify

 🎙️ THE FREEDOM EXPERIENCE - Episode 29 The Hidden Truth About Purpose at Work with Zach Mercurio In this powerful conversation with Zach Mercurio, we explore why purpose isn't just about having a mission statement - it's about creating environments where people truly feel they matter. Zach shares insights from his research and upcoming book about how leaders can build cultures of significance in their organizations. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Purpose exists in every role - it's about connecting work to human impact Creating purpose statements is only 1% of the work - implementation is key Leaders need specific skills to help people see their significance The future of work is moving toward a relationship economy Less than 1% of people receive formal education in listening skills Psychological safety, meaningfulness, and availability are key predictors of engagement Digital communication is eroding our human connection skills ⚡ KEY MOMENTS: [03:28] Zach shares the poem that changed his perspective on purpose [05:27] Why your job isn't your purpose [12:54] How embedded purpose serves as a storyline for organizations [17:03] The NASA story - how to show people their work matters [20:30] Rethinking job descriptions through a purpose lens [26:01] The two fundamental truths about employee engagement [36:08] How the Industrial Revolution disconnected us from purpose [46:09] Why purpose statements alone aren't enough 💡 POWERFUL QUOTES: "Your purpose is not out there waiting to be found. It's right where you are waiting to be acknowledged and seen." "It's impossible for something to matter to someone who doesn't first believe that they matter." "When you have an embedded purpose, it serves as that storyline. But when you don't have that purpose, you get a lot of wasted energy and a lot of confusion." 📚 ABOUT ZACH: Zach Mercurio, PhD, is a researcher, author, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership and positive organizational psychology. He works with organizations worldwide, including: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Delta Airlines J.P. Morgan Chase Marriott International The Government of Canada The National Park Service As a Research and Teaching Fellow at Colorado State University's Center for Meaning and Purpose and one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors, Zach brings both academic rigor and practical application to his work. 🔮 WHAT'S NEXT: Pre-order Zach's new book "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance" (Coming May 2025) 🔗 CONNECT WITH ZACH: Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/ 📚 RESOURCES MENTIONED: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> "The Invisible Leader" by Zach Mercurio "Everything Else in the World" poem by Stephen Dunn "Song of Significance" by Seth Godin 🎧 LISTEN ON: iTunes, Spotify  

Art Saxby is the founder and CEO of Chief Outsiders, a company revolutionizing how mid-sized businesses access executive talent through fractional leadership. From his early days as a "born nomad" to leadership roles at Frito-Lay, Kellogg's, and Coca-Cola, Art has mastered the art of thriving in new situations. At age 50, driven by necessity during the 2009 recession, he founded Chief Outsiders, which now boasts over 130 battle-tested marketing and sales executives helping companies reignite growth. In this dynamic episode of The Freedom Experience, Art shares his proven "Growth Gears" methodology and reveals why even the best-run companies sometimes struggle to grow. Whether you're plateauing, seeking new market opportunities, or preparing for the economic upswing predicted for 2025, this conversation offers invaluable insights for business leaders ready to accelerate growth. Watch the Episode on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Takeaways: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> The Three Growth Gears: Art breaks down the essential components of sustainable growth - Insights, Strategy, and Execution - and why they must work in harmony Market-Based Leadership: Learn why looking outward at market dynamics is crucial for breaking through growth plateaus Culture as Strategy: Discover how purpose-driven culture can be strategically designed to deliver business results Future-Ready Leadership: Understanding how AI, flexible work arrangements, and economic cycles are reshaping business opportunities Resource Optimization: Why the future belongs to companies that can flexibly access world-class talent rather than trying to own every resource Resources and Links: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Connect with Art Saxby on LinkedIn Visit Chief Outsiders at chiefoutsiders.com Books Mentioned: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Growth Gears by Art Saxby and Pete Hayes Stop Random Acts of Marketing by Karen Hayward Good to Great by Jim Collins Organizations Referenced: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Vistage C12 ITR Economics Want to prepare your business for the growth opportunities ahead? Don't miss Art's practical insights on building market-driven organizations that can quickly adapt and scale.

Paul Spiegelman is the co-founder of the Small Giants community, a peer group of purpose-driven business leaders. As the former chief culture officer of Stericycle and co-founder/former CEO of Beryl Health, Paul has pioneered approaches to building culture-first organizations. His journey from founding a medical alert business in the mid-1980s to selling Beryl Health for 22x EBITDA demonstrates how purpose-driven leadership can create exceptional business value while prioritizing people. In this episode of The Freedom Experience, Paul and I explore the connection between purpose, culture, and business success. We discuss how putting employees first creates sustainable growth, the challenges of maintaining culture through transitions, and the personal journey of finding purpose after a successful exit. If you're interested in building a business that makes a difference while delivering exceptional results, this conversation is for you. Watch the Episode on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Takeaways: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> The Circle of Growth: Paul explains his proven model where focusing on employees first drives customer loyalty, which generates profit that can be reinvested in people. Culture as Competitive Advantage: Learn how Beryl Health commanded 20-30% premium pricing while achieving 5-6x higher profitability than competitors by prioritizing culture. Navigating Transitions: Paul shares insights on protecting company culture through growth and acquisition, including his decision to reject private equity offers. Finding Purpose: We discuss the ongoing search for purpose, managing mental health as a leader, and maintaining fulfillment after a successful exit. Next Generation Leadership: Valuable advice for emerging leaders on building relationships, staying patient with career development, and seeking mentorship. Resources and Links: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Connect with Paul Spiegelman on LinkedIn Join the Small Giants Community at www.smallgiants.org Contact Paul directly at [email protected] Books by Paul Spiegelman: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Small Giants Why is Everyone Smiling? Patients Come Second Mentioned in this episode: &]:mt-2 list-disc space-y-2 pl-8"> Beryl Health Stericycle Small Giants Community Leadership Academy Would you like me to make any adjustments to better match your style or add any additional elements?

Mike Jones is the founder of Better Happy, an award-winning consultancy that helps businesses thrive by focusing on happiness and high performance. Drawing from his diverse background—including five years of military service, time spent in monasteries in Nepal and Thailand, and building his own businesses—Mike brings a unique perspective on what it takes to create sustainable success. He is also the author of The Happy Business Revolution, now available, which offers a fresh take on building businesses aligned with well-being and fulfillment. In this episode of The Freedom Experience, Mike and I discuss how fulfillment, not just profit, drives long-term success. We explore the dangers of toxic productivity, the importance of employee engagement, and his Core 4 Model for balancing the needs of owners, employees, customers, and the business. If you’ve ever wondered how to grow a business without burning out, this conversation is for you. Watch the Episode on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Takeaways: Happiness vs. Success: Mike contrasts Eastern and Western mindsets, explaining how fulfillment—rather than material success—is the key to long-term happiness in business and life. Employee Engagement Matters: We discuss how confident, fulfilled employees drive engagement, retention, and, ultimately, business performance. The Core 4 Model: Mike outlines his framework for balancing the needs of owners, employees, customers, and the business to build sustainable enterprises. Avoiding Burnout: Drawing from personal experience, Mike highlights the dangers of toxic productivity and emphasizes the need to set intentional goals to maintain a healthy work-life balance. Resources and Links: Connect with Mike Jones on LinkedIn. Learn more about Better Happy at betterhappy.co.uk for larger companies. Explore the Happy Business Club at betterhappybusinessclub.com for small businesses. Mike’s book, The Happy Business Revolution. Books mentioned in this episode: The Happiest Man on Earth by Eddie Jaku $100M Offers and $100M Leads by Alex Hormozi Access free tools and workshops on the Better Happy website.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience® Podcast, I sit down with Ryan Tansom, founder of Independence by Design, to explore his journey of turning around his family business and creating his ownership framework. Ryan opens up about the gut-wrenching experience of "eating glass" during the five years he spent turning around a $21 million business, navigating the emotional toll of payroll struggles, and managing cash flow. He also discusses the pivotal moment when they sold the company to a competitor and how that '10-year therapy session' reshaped his understanding of business and life. Through his experiences, Ryan created the Independence by Design framework to help other business owners avoid the same pitfalls. His mission is to teach business owners how to shift from a CEO mindset to an owner mindset, regain control over their time, and build a business that serves their personal and financial goals. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Takeaways: The Emotional Rollercoaster of a Business Turnaround: Ryan describes the intense pressure of managing a family business, the fear of missing payroll, and the mental toll it took on him. The Importance of Shifting from CEO to Owner: Ryan emphasizes that true freedom for business owners comes from shifting their mindset from being an operator to being a true owner, which allows them to regain control over their time. Cash Flow vs. Equity: Ryan explains the critical trade-offs between focusing on immediate cash flow and building long-term equity, and why business owners must find a balance that works for them. Building an Ownership Team: Ryan advocates for assembling a team of experts, much like private equity firms do, to help navigate complex business decisions and drive sustainable growth. The Reality of Selling a Business: Ryan shares the difficult decision to sell the family business to a competitor and the emotional impact of watching something he helped build get dismantled. Sound Bites: "I was just like, I'm young, I'm eating glass. This is all going to be valuable at some point in my life." "Freedom means independence over my time." "We were running a $21 million business, but it felt like a noose around our necks." "I felt just unbelievably trapped, and my dad felt trapped too." "It’s all about understanding the game of ownership." Chapters: 00:00 – Introduction and Background03:00 – The Shift from CEO to Owner06:35 – Balancing Cash Flow and Equity09:24 – Managing Payroll and Cash Flow19:28 – Feeling Trapped in the Family Business28:03 – The Challenges of Financing38:39 – Selling the Business41:24 – Post-Exit Reflections and Lessons Learned44:41 – Ryan’s Mission to Help Business Owners49:45 – The Game of Ownership52:16 – Choosing the Right Game for Your Business56:10 – Finding Joy and Purpose After the Exit Resources: Connect with Ryan Tansom on LinkedIn. Learn more about Independence by Design at ryantansom.com.

Howard Blake is a serial entrepreneur who’s built over 20 companies across four continents. Starting from humble beginnings—selling shirts out of the trunk of his car—he went on to scale businesses in diverse industries, from call centers to digital finance. Blake’s journey is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the power of bootstrapping, offering valuable insights into entrepreneurial growth without a safety net.

In this episode of The Freedom Experience® Podcast, I sit down with renowned entrepreneur and author Shannon Byrne Susko. Shannon, the creator of the Metronomics framework and author of several best-selling books, has revolutionized how businesses execute their growth strategies. Widely recognized for her leadership and innovation, she has earned accolades, including being named one of Canada's Top 100 Most Powerful Women multiple times. In our conversation, we explore her journey from being a desperate CEO to achieving multiple life-changing exits and how those experiences inspired the creation of Metronomics and the 3HAG (Three-Year Highly Achievable Goal). A system that unites teams and drives business success. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! Key Takeaways The Power of FocusShannon highlights how staying focused on what you want—both personally and professionally—is crucial for success. It’s this focus that guided her and her team through periods of desperation and toward strategic growth. Coaching as a Game ChangerShannon attributes much of her success to the coaches who guided her throughout her career. She emphasizes the importance of being coachable and having a support network to remove blind spots and push you to grow. 3HAG Brings Strategy to LifeShannon introduces the concept of the Three-Year Highly Achievable Goal (3HAG), explaining how this framework makes long-term goals tangible and keeps teams focused on actionable steps. It turns abstract ideas into realistic milestones that drive growth. The Human Side of StrategyBeyond strategy and execution, Shannon talks about how leadership and culture must align with the company's vision. A cohesive team that learns together wins together. This human element is what makes the 3HAG so effective. Cash System & Financial ClarityShannon underscores the importance of a clear cash system within Metronomics, helping businesses understand how to generate the necessary cash flow through strategic decisions and forecasting. Resources Connect with Shannon Susko on LinkedIn Learn more about Metronomics at metronomics.com Books Mentioned: The 3HAG Way by Shannon Susko Good to Great by Jim Collins Rapid Transformation by Ben Hardy

In this episode of The Freedom Experience, I sit down with Mackey McNeill, a trailblazing entrepreneur and financial expert, to explore the challenges faced by business owners and the critical role of financial planning in business success. Mackey shares her unique journey of building a successful business, the importance of intention in achieving business goals, and how fear can drive poor decision-making for entrepreneurs. As the founder of Mackey Advisors, a CFO firm for fast-growing businesses and those striving for intentional growth, Mackey brings more than just numbers to the table—she brings heart, purpose, and decades of experience helping business owners thrive. A CPA, PFS, and the award-winning author of The Prosperity Playbook and The Intersection of Joy and Money, Mackey has guided thousands of entrepreneurs through the ups and downs of building a successful business. Her insights have appeared in INC Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times, and Money, to name a few. Mackey Advisors isn’t just another financial firm. It was one of the first certified B Corps in its region, a four-time Real Leaders Impact Award winner, and even earned a place on the INC 5000 in 2022. In 2023, they added the INC Power Partners award to their accolades—a testament to their commitment to helping businesses grow with intention. When she's not helping others find prosperity, Mackey is living hers—spending time at her permaculture homestead, RedSunflower Farm, where she loves to cook straight from her garden, wander the woods, and cherish moments with her grandchildren. In this episode: Mackey introduces her innovative framework that empowers entrepreneurs to make data-driven decisions through integration and strategic planning. She also emphasizes the importance of building a team capable of running a business independently. She shares how this allowed her to step away from daily operations and focus on long-term growth. The conversation touches on leadership, succession planning, and maintaining core values in scaling a business. Key Takeaways: Intention and financial planning are critical for business success. Fear-driven decisions often lead to poor outcomes. Integration of financial data with strategic planning helps entrepreneurs make informed decisions. Building a team that operates independently fosters sustainable growth. Transparent communication and education around financials build stronger teams and better results. Connect with Mackey: LinkedIn: Mackey McNeill Website: Mackey Advisors

In this episode of The Freedom Experience® Podcast, I sit down with Tom Walter, Founder, CEO, and Chief Culture Officer at Tasty Catering. Tom is a true serial entrepreneur, having grown Tasty Catering from its humble beginnings as a Chicago hot dog stand into one of the top four catering companies in Chicago, with group revenues surpassing $85 million. Tom's story is one of transformation, driven by a deep belief in the power of relationships, culture, and people. In this conversation, we dive into the cultural revolution that took place at Tasty Catering in 2005, when two young employees challenged Tom’s leadership style. Their call for change was the catalyst for a complete turnaround, resulting in a more people-centered, values-driven company that continues to thrive. Tom shares how hitting rock bottom, both personally and professionally, forced him to rethink how he led the business. With a renewed focus on fostering an entrepreneurial spirit within the team, Tasty Catering went from $2-3 million in revenue to $85 million today. The driving force? Tom's emphasis on understanding people’s skills, creating a values-based culture, and removing workplace "disruptors" that prevent employees from performing at their best. One of the standout concepts we discuss is the idea of "entangled employees"—people who are deeply woven into the fabric of the company and who think and act like owners. Tom shares how empowering his team to take responsibility for their own areas of work and decision-making has led to innovation and incredible growth, especially during challenging times like COVID-19. Key Takeaways: The Power of Culture: Building a company culture based on core values can transform both the business and the people within it. Tom’s 2005 cultural revolution was the turning point for Tasty Catering. Discretionary Effort: The average employee only gives 4% of their 60,000 daily thoughts to their employer. By removing disruptors and fostering a positive, values-driven workplace, Tom has helped his employees unlock their full potential. Circle of Discipline: Tom shares how freedom within a framework allows employees to take ownership of their roles, empowering them to innovate and drive the business forward. Entangled Employees: Beyond engagement, entangled employees are those who care deeply about the company's success and contribute extra discretionary effort. During COVID-19, Tom felt like he had 60 CEOs in the room, all working together to find solutions. Resources: Connect with Tom Walter on LinkedIn Explore Tasty Catering and learn about its unique culture Read more about Tom's leadership philosophy in It's My Company Too! This episode is a must-listen for any entrepreneur or business leader looking to transform their company culture and foster an environment where employees thrive and contribute at their highest potential. Books: "Good to Great" by Jim Collins – This book is central to the cultural change that took place at Tasty Catering, with the team using its principles to shape core values and drive growth. "The 8 Steps of Change" by John Kotter – Though Tom initially didn’t know about Kotter’s framework, the change process at Tasty Catering followed Kotter's 8-step model of transformation. "It's My Company Too!" – Co-authored by Tom Walter, this book explores what makes small companies great, with a focus on employee engagement and culture. "Creating a Culture of Accountability" (Gravitas Impact Monograph) – Though not mentioned directly, this is related to the principles Tom discussed about accountability and leadership. "The Great Game of Business" by Jack Stack – Tasty Catering uses the financial transparency and open-book management principles from this book to involve all employees in the company’s success. "The Big Hairy Audacious Goal (BHAG)" from Good to Great – This concept was part of the culture-building at Tasty Catering, shaping its long-term vision. Thought Leaders: Jim Collins – Author of Good to Great, Collins’ work on core values and the BHAG (Big Hairy Audacious Goal) concept significantly influenced the cultural shift at Tasty Catering. John Kotter – His 8-step process for leading change was mirrored in Tasty Catering's transformation, even though Tom wasn’t initially aware of it. Edgar Schein – A renowned thought leader in organizational culture, Schein’s "pyramid model for culture" deeply influenced how Tasty Catering embedded values into the company. Immanuel Kant – Tom references Kant’s philosophy of freedom within discipline, which shaped Tasty Catering’s "Circle of Discipline" approach to employee empowerment. Ari Weinzweig – Co-founder of Zingerman's Deli and a fellow Small Giants leader, Tom mentions that Weinzweig personally teaches his company's culture courses, inspiring Tom’s approach at Tasty Catering. Bo Burlingham – Author of Small Giants, Bo’s work on great companies that prioritize values over size also influences Tom’s business approach. Sue Funkhouser – An organizational development specialist who spoke at a Small Giants gathering, Sue provided insights into the impact of culture on discretionary effort and employee engagement. These books and thought leaders play a significant role in shaping Tom Walter's leadership philosophy and the culture at Tasty Catering.

In this Episode Glen Dall shares his journey from working on an assembly line to becoming the CEO of a publicly traded company. Starting in the automotive industry, he faced setbacks, returned to school, and transitioned into the food marketing industry. As CEO, he turned the company around by focusing on customers, supporting the sales team, and cutting costs, but eventually left due to conflicting visions with new investors. Glenn then became a business consultant and scaling-up coach, helping other CEOs avoid the CEO Doom Loop—a cycle of poor decisions and micromanagement driven by fear and lack of accountability. Recognizing signs like taking over tasks and lack of communication, CEOs can build strong leadership teams, focus on vision, core values, and culture, and use clear business frameworks, peer groups, and coaches to navigate challenges and drive growth. Key Takeaways The importance of perseverance and continuous learning in career growth The impact of setbacks and unexpected opportunities in shaping one's career path The significance of having a clear vision and strategy for business success The value of having a supportive network and trusted advisors as a CEO The CEO Doom Loop is a pattern where CEOs get stuck in a cycle of fear and poor decision-making. Recognizing the signs of slipping into the doom loop, such as micromanaging and lack of accountability, is crucial for CEOs. Building a strong leadership team and focusing on sales effectiveness can help break free from the doom loop. The softer side of the business, including vision, core values, and culture, is essential for long-term success. CEOs should have a clear business framework, join a peer group, and work with a coach to navigate the challenges of the doom loop.    Resources Find Glen on LinkedIn or at Apex North Coaching Glen co-authored “The CEO Playbook” He is also a contributing editor to the book "ROCK & SAND PREMIUM EDITION: A Practical Insight to Business Growth His expertise in accountability is captured in another book he contributed to, "Creating A Culture of Accountability: A Gravitas Impact Monograph.". If you want to assess your company's Sellability, take our Exit Readiness Assessment   

Graham Steven, CEO and co-founder of bizval discusses the importance of business valuations for small business owners and how bizval aims to make valuations more accessible. He shares his personal journey to entrepreneurship and the inspiration behind creating bizval. Watch this conversation on YouTube. And SUBSCRIBE! The Freedom Experience Show Valuations are crucial for small business owners to understand their company's current value and strategically plan for future growth and success. The five pillars of a valuable business are: developing owner independence, establishing effective systems and processes, focusing on cash profits and sustainable growth, having a deep understanding of the customer, and managing working capital efficiently. How bizval integrates three valuation methods—discounted cash flow, earnings multiples, and net asset value—to deliver a comprehensive and precise business assessment. Partnering with bizval offers business owners valuable insights and guidance on how to enhance their business's value and optimize it for future opportunities. How partnering with Bizval provides business owners with valuable insights and guidance to enhance their business's value and prepare for future opportunities.  Resources:  Learn more about bizval Connect with Graham on LinkedIn  

Procrastination has plagued us since the dawn of time. In this episode, I share some insights on understanding why we procrastinate and tips for taming your procrastination demons. If you enjoy this episode and it inspired you somehow, I’d love to hear about it and know your biggest takeaway.   In this episode, you’ll hear: Why we procrastinate and why procrastination isn't necessarily a bad thing The root causes of procrastination Tips for taming your procrastination demons Resources: To get my FREE Business Exit Strategy Guide, click here. The Marketing 360 a simple marketing assessment Read the full article of this episode Read about the instant gratification monkey  Explore the mind of a master procrastinator How psychologists Solomon and Rothblum defined procrastination  Bill Clinton was a “chronic procrastinator” a 1994 Time magazine article  Who Not How by Dan Sullivan and Dr. Benjamin Hardy The 1-3-5 rule Join Emerge Insights, our newsletter, for weekly tips on scaling your business  Assess Your Company's Scalability Socre here   Connect with me on:  LinkedIn Instagram YouTube Facebook