The Rundown with Ramon - Ramon Ray - small business podcast for entrepreneurs

Hiring a virtual assistant can create leverage, but only when the owner provides a clear role, a workable process, and realistic expectations. In this episode, I’m going to show you how to identify the right tasks, choose three starting responsibilities, define decision boundaries, test candidates with paid work, and onboard the right person over 30 days.I’ll also discuss worker classification, account security, confidentiality, and why the cheapest candidate may not create the greatest value. Most importantly, we’ll look at what you should do with the time you recover. Delegation only helps when you redirect that capacity toward selling, serving, creating, leading, or living.Watch or listen with your current task list nearby. By the end, you should be able to identify one task to document today and a practical next step toward hiring support.

What does it really take to build a company that lasts for 15 years? And where is AI actually going beyond chatbots and search?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, I sit down with Eddie Kim, cofounder of Gusto, to talk about the lessons he has learned from building the company, why mission matters, what changes as you scale, and why cofounder relationships need the same kind of investment as any long-term partnership.We also go deep on Gusto Cofounder and the future of AI for small business. Eddie explains what he calls the “blank canvas problem” with many AI tools and why the real opportunity is not just asking AI questions, but having AI actually get work done.We talk about:How Gusto started and the problem Eddie personally wanted to solveWhy passion and mission matter in entrepreneurshipThe difference between using AI as a search tool and using it to execute real business processesHow AI can handle the “work before the work”Why the future of software may mean less clicking and more delegationWhat founders need to learn as their companies growWhy hiring and delegation become critical at scaleHow Eddie, Josh Reeves, and Tomer London have maintained their cofounder relationship for 15 yearsWhy entrepreneurship may become an even bigger part of the future of workIf you’re a business owner, founder, entrepreneur, or simply trying to understand where AI is taking the way we work, this conversation gives you plenty to think about.Subscribe to The Rundown with Ramon for more conversations with entrepreneurs, business leaders, and innovators who are building what’s next.https://www.Gusto.comhttps://www.ZoneofGenius.com/subscribehttps://www.RamonRay.com

Your biggest competitor may be the customer’s decision to do nothing. Let's talk about why this familiar problem often feels safer than change, how to make the cost of inaction visible, reduce decision friction, address real risk, and create urgency without manipulation or pressure.Brought to you by Bitdefender, Small Business Security - BeMoreSecure.com - be more secure for free. No excuses.Brought to you by Grow Your Solo - Ramon's free guide to grow your solo business GrowYourSolo.com

More revenue, customers, employees, or locations do not automatically create a better business—or a better life. Ramon Ray challenges entrepreneurs to measure growth through profit, cash, customer experience, team health, owner time, and personal fulfillment, then choose growth their company can responsibly absorb.Powered by Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security - BeMoreSecure.com and Ramon Office Hours Coaching to grow your business - RamonOfficeHourse.com

Should you call yourself an AI expert—or use AI to become even better at what you already do?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray speaks with entrepreneur and e-commerce expert John “Colder Ice” Lawson about why business leaders should stop chasing broad AI labels. Instead, they should apply AI to the industries, customers, and business problems they already understand.John also shares a personal shift that comes with experience: moving from nonstop hustle toward wisdom, focus, and better decision-making.In this conversation, you’ll learn:• Why your industry expertise matters more than mastering every AI tool• How to use AI to solve real business problems• Why human judgment remains essential• How experience can lead to smarter, more focused leadership• Why the next stage of success may require wisdom—not more hustleIf you’re an entrepreneur, executive, consultant, or business leader trying to make practical use of AI, this conversation will help you focus on what matters.Check out John Lawsonhttps://www.colderice.comhttps://coldericekits.com/Subscribe for more conversations about entrepreneurship, leadership, branding, technology, and business growth.Learn more from Ramon Ray: https://ramonray.comRead more business insights: https://zoneofgenius.com#ArtificialIntelligence #Entrepreneurship #BusinessLeadership #JohnLawson #RamonRay #TheRundownWithRamon

Advice can sharpen a decision - or help you avoid one. Ramon Ray explains how entrepreneurs get trapped in endless opinion gathering, how to ask better questions, set an advice limit, choose relevant advisors, and turn guidance into a small experiment that produces real evidence.Plus input and discussion with the LIVE audience on Breakfast with Champions on Clubhouse.Don't let cybercriminals get through - Brought to you by Bitdfender Ultimate Small Business Security - https://BeMoreSecure.com Powered by Grow Your Solo - download your guide to growing your solo business - https://GrowYourSolo.com

AI is making competent output faster and cheaper. Ramon Ray explains why entrepreneurs should stop competing on routine production and build premium value around judgment, trust, proprietary knowledge, human connection, accountability, and meaningful customer outcomes. Includes a practical value-after-AI audit for your current offer.

Who loses when you keep waiting, polishing, hiding, or refusing the next responsible step? Ramon Ray challenges entrepreneurs to examine the wider cost of playing small—without glorifying recklessness or growth for growth’s sake. Identify who benefits from your courage and choose one visible action to take within 48 hours.This episode powered by the BeMoreSecure small business cybersecurity challenge - BeMoreSecure.com

What is the difference between confident urgency and sales desperation? Ramon Ray breaks down the subtle behaviors customers notice, how a weak pipeline distorts judgment, why qualification beats convincing everyone, and how clear follow-up, boundaries, and pricing create a calmer and more credible sales experience.Sponsored by Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security - BeMoreSecure.com

Marketing keeps changing—but the fundamentals still workThis conversation powered by Verisign's YourDot.comIn this Marketing 101 conversation, Ramon Ray, small business expert and keynote speaker sits down with social media expert Mari Smith to discuss the marketing essentials every entrepreneurial leader should understand.Mari explains why a strong marketing strategy still begins with an email list, a credible website, a professional domain, focused social media activity, and genuine human connection. She also shares how leaders can use AI as a thought partner without allowing technology to replace their judgment or unique voice.In this interview, you’ll learn:• Why email remains an essential marketing channel• How a professional domain builds credibility• Why your company doesn’t need to post on every social platform• How to connect social engagement to business results• Why advertising should deliver a measurable return• How AI can support better ideas, content, and analysis• Why phone calls, direct mail, and live events still matterThe big lesson: Marketing tools will continue to evolve, but trust, clarity, consistency, and relationships remain at the center of business growth.This conversation was sponsored by Verisign, the registry operator of .com.Ge to know Mari Smith more at https://www.MariSmith.comRead more insights for entrepreneurial leaders at [https://zoneofgenius.com](https://zoneofgenius.com)Connect with Ramon Ray:[https://ramonray.com](https://ramonray.com)Subscribe for more conversations about marketing, leadership, entrepreneurship, personal branding, and business growth.What is one marketing fundamental your company needs to strengthen? Share it in the comments.#Marketing101 #MariSmith #RamonRay #DigitalMarketing #SocialMediaMarketing #EmailMarketing #AIMarketing #Entrepreneurship

Nobody owes your business a click, view, listen, or reply. Ramon Ray explains why that is an opportunity—not an insult. Learn how tension, specificity, strong points of view, honest packaging, consistency, and audience participation can turn valuable but invisible work into attention that becomes trust.Powered by Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security - join the campaign - BeMoreSecure.com

Are you keeping prices low to serve customers—or because you are afraid to charge what the work requires? Ramon Ray examines the hidden cost of underpricing, why margin supports better service, how to offer accessible choices without weakening your flagship offer, and how to connect price to meaningful customer outcomes.Protect your business from Cybercriminal s with Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security - BeMoreSecure.com

Is your network full of relationships—or merely names? Ramon Ray challenges entrepreneurs to examine the difference between recognition and trust, stop networking only when they need something, follow up with greater intention, and protect the credibility behind every introduction. You will leave with a practical five-person relationship reset you can begin today.

If customers cannot quickly understand what you sell, more marketing may only send more people into confusion.Ramon Ray presents a practical 15-minute exercise for clarifying your business offer. Identify the specific customer, name the problem in their language, explain the result and solution, remove jargon, communicate your difference, and make the next step obvious.Brought to you by BeMoreSecure.com - take the challenge and secure your business.

What important business or personal decision have you been postponing while waiting for someone else’s approval?Ramon Ray explores the difference between preparation and avoidance, why confidence often follows action, how to distinguish reversible experiments from high-risk decisions, and how to identify your “minimum courageous action.”Stop waiting for perfect certainty. Choose one meaningful move and begin.

Is your business losing customers after they’ve already shown interest?Ramon Ray examines the friction that prevents attention from becoming revenue—from unclear offers and competing calls to action to slow responses, mysterious pricing, weak trust signals, and complicated checkout processes.You’ll learn how to mystery-shop your own business and identify one unnecessary step you can remove immediately.

Would you hire yourself to run your business?Ramon Ray challenges entrepreneurs to conduct an honest personal performance review. This episode explores reliability, preparation, coachability, communication, leadership energy, and the difference between staying busy and doing the work your company genuinely needs.You’ll leave with a practical scorecard and one important question: What must the next version of you do differently?Powered by Bitdefender Ultimate Small Business Security - BeMoreSecure.com and Genius Talks Mastermind - GeniusTalksMastermind.com

Are you building a durable business—or creating a demanding job for yourself?Gusto’s 2026 New Business Formation Report found that building financial stability or a future asset has surpassed being your own boss as founders’ leading motivation.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray explains how entrepreneurs can evaluate owner dependence, document essential systems, delegate responsibility, protect customer relationships, develop predictable revenue, and build a company that can function without their constant involvement.You’ll also learn the two-week test for measuring business independence and a practical 90-day challenge for turning your daily work into a more valuable business asset.There is nothing wrong with remaining a solopreneur. The goal is to understand what you are building—and ensure it supports the future you actually want.

How do you grow from 15,000 to 70,000 followers on LinkedIn—and turn that attention into real business opportunities?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray explores the strategies creator Marina Mogilko used to expand her LinkedIn audience. Discover why focused content, consistent publishing, event-based networking, active conversations, visual storytelling, and smart use of AI can accelerate your growth.You’ll also learn why followers alone don’t equal success—and how to turn online visibility into trusted relationships, speaking opportunities, clients, and revenue.

What can AutoZone teach entrepreneurs about building a powerful brand? Quite a bit.After my car battery died, AutoZone didn’t simply sell me a replacement—the team helped solve my problem by installing it with a smile. That experience reminded me that branding isn’t just about logos, colors or slogans. It’s about how customers feel when they need your help.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, I share how small businesses can become trusted, go-to resources, reduce customer frustration, use strategic referrals and create memorable experiences that generate loyalty.Whatever you sell, don’t just deliver the product. Help your customers reach the finish line.

What can the FIFA World Cup teach us about business and life? A lot more than you might expect.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray explores powerful lessons from the world’s biggest soccer tournament—from the tension that keeps audiences watching to the teamwork behind every winning goal.You’ll discover why your breakthrough may not happen until “extra time,” how emotion builds authentic connections, why clear rules create trust, and what to do when life or business delivers an unfair call.Most importantly, Ramon reminds us that one loss does not erase your legacy. Value your team, create memorable experiences, control what you can control—and stay in the game until the final whistle.Remember to subscribe to this podcast so you don't miss out.Sponsored by Bitdefender Small Business Security - https://www.bitdefender.com/pages/consumer/en/new/vsb-ramon

OpenAI Codex is much more than a coding tool. It represents a major shift from simply asking AI questions to assigning AI real work.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray breaks down what Codex is, why entrepreneurs and business owners should pay attention, and how it can be used for research, scheduled tasks, workflow automation, reporting, data analysis, document creation, app development, and much more.You’ll learn how Codex can help you move faster, reduce repetitive work, test new ideas, and build repeatable systems inside your business. Ramon also shares practical best practices for using AI agents responsibly, including setting clear instructions, protecting sensitive information, testing the work, maintaining human oversight, and knowing when an expert is still needed.Codex is not magic, it is not automatically accurate, and it should not operate your business without boundaries. But when used wisely, it can become a powerful digital assistant that helps you turn ideas into action.In this episode:What OpenAI Codex really isWhy it is much more than a coding toolHow Codex can conduct research and create reportsHow scheduled tasks and recurring automations workWays entrepreneurs can use Codex in their businessesHow reusable AI skills can improve consistencyThe importance of security, testing, and human approvalWhat Codex can do—and what it should never be trusted to do aloneThe future of business will not only belong to people who know how to code. It will belong to leaders who know how to clearly define outcomes, create strong systems, and responsibly direct AI agents to get meaningful work done.Brought to you by Bitdefender Small Business Security - BitDefender.com/RamonPowered by Genius Talks Mastermind - peer-to-peer insights for entrepreneurs and small business owners. www.GeniusTalksMastermind.com

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon Show, Ramon Ray unpacks what it really takes to rebound after you mess up. Whether you made a bad decision, disappointed someone, lost an opportunity, or failed publicly, the key is not pretending it didn’t happen — it’s owning it, learning from it, and getting back up with wisdom.Ramon shares why rebounding requires humility, honesty, apology, better systems, and the courage to keep moving forward. Your mistake may be part of your story, but it does not have to be the end of your story.Brought to you by Bitdefender small business security - www.Bitdefender.com/ramon

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray shares how small teams can move faster, stay focused, and create real momentum. He talks about hiring smart, versatile people, finding an operations leader you can lean on, protecting your calendar, delegating well, and knowing the key activities that drive your business forward.You will also hear why content creation should be treated like a business asset, how to build a trusted circle around you, and why the goal is not to do everything yourself.A small team can do big things when the right people are focused on the right work.Sponsored by Bitdefender Small Business Security - www.Bitdefender.comSponsored by Genius Talks Mastermind - www.GeniusTalksMastermind.com - networking and insights for entrepreneurs

How can you get away from your office for a few days and still get work done? How can you go on vacation or go on an extended business trip and still serve clients, be there for your staff and ensure your business operations smoothly?Ramon shares his best tips for how he does it and you can too. Because you're away from the office doesn't mean your business has to stop or stumble.Powered by Bitdfefender Small Business Security - www.Bitdefender.com Partnership with Genius Talks Mastermind - www.GeniusTalksMastermind.com - powerful experiential networking for entrepreneurs See less

Your network is more than followers, contacts, and LinkedIn connections. It is a community of people you can learn from, support, collaborate with, and grow alongside.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray shares how to get more value from your network by first adding value to it. Learn why it is important to segment your contacts, reconnect with people intentionally, respond to genuine DMs, leave meaningful comments, meet people in person, make introductions, and become known as someone who gives back.The goal is not to collect the most contacts. The goal is to build stronger relationships with the people already in your world.Be sure to FOLLOW this episode on Spotify or Apple.Sponsored by Bitdefender.com - security solutions for small businessesGenius Talks Mastermind - curated networking for entrepreneurs - GeniusTalksMastermind.com

What is the thing you do better than most people around you?You do not have to be the best in the world to have a gift that creates real value. Maybe you are a great connector, communicator, problem-solver, leader, encourager, creator, or salesperson. The key is recognizing where you are strongest and choosing to lean into it.Yes, keep learning new skills. Improve your weaknesses enough so they do not hold you back. But do not spend your whole life trying to become average at everything while ignoring the thing that could make you exceptional.When you focus on your greatest strengths, you can provide value that others cannot provide as naturally or as effectively. Your gifts can become your career advantage, your business differentiator, and part of the impact you make in the world.In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray talks about how to identify what you do best, stop comparing yourself to everyone else, build confidence without arrogance, and use your unique talents to serve others at a higher level.Sponsored by Bitdefender - security for your small business - www.Bitdefender.com/ramon

Who is pushing you toward greatness, and who is simply adding noise to your life?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon Show, Ramon Ray explores the voices we allow to influence us. The right people do more than cheer from the sidelines. They challenge us, offer honest feedback, see potential in us, and want to watch us win.Ramon also discusses why not everyone deserves an equal vote in your life, how to recognize feedback that comes from care versus jealousy, and why surrounding yourself with true teammates can help you get unstuck and move forward.The conversation also touches on AI image creation, protecting your personal brand, entrepreneurship, capitalism, community, and the power of helping someone take their first brave step.Key takeaways:Choose people who challenge you because they believe in your potential.Not everyone who speaks into your life deserves equal influence.Constructive feedback is a gift when it is rooted in care and experience.True teammates help you grow, not just applaud when things are going well.Do the thing that scares you, knowing your first attempt does not have to be perfect.Brought to you by Bitdefender Small Business Security - BitDefender.com/Ramon and ZoneofGenius.com

Did you know that self-promotion is a good thing. But it's an underused tool in your brand toolkit that can help enhance your credibility, build your brand and increase sales buy leverage your personal brand.Here's why self-promotion is a good thing and how to do it the right way, without being a jerk.Brought to you by Bitdefender Small Business Security - BitDefender.com/Ramon and ZoneofGenius.com See less

When something goes wrong, it is easy to call it a failure and walk away. But before you quit, ask a better question: What did you learn?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon Show, Ramon Ray shares a real-time lesson in adapting when plans do not go perfectly. Broadcasting from a coffee shop in Midtown Manhattan before a Genius Talks Mastermind event, Ramon explores preparation, prioritization, betting on yourself, pivoting with purpose, and how to tell the difference between a bad idea and poor execution.This conversation is for entrepreneurs, creators, leaders, and anyone working toward a goal that has not yet gone exactly as planned.Key TakeawaysPerfection is rarely available, but purposeful preparation helps you make the best decision with what you have.A setback does not automatically mean you failed; it may reveal what needs to change.Separate the idea from its execution before deciding whether something does not work.Ask whether the right people know your offer exists, understand it clearly, and actually want it.Pivoting toward a better path is not quitting; it is learning, adjusting, and moving forward with wisdom.

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon Show, Ramon Ray explores one of the toughest questions in relationships, business, leadership, and life: when conflict happens, how do you know whether the issue is you, them, or a little of both?Ramon shares practical ways to examine recurring patterns, receive feedback without becoming defensive, set reasonable boundaries, and seek input from people you trust. He also discusses showing up professionally through your LinkedIn profile, personal brand, speaking style, and even your business email address.Key takeaways:Look for repeated patterns: when the same issue comes up with different people, it may be time for honest self-reflection.Ask for specific evidence and examples instead of reacting only to feelings or assumptions.Learn to own your part without accepting blame for everything.Healthy feedback comes from people who want the best for you and can explain concerns clearly.You do not need to become someone else to improve; be yourself while staying open to growth.

Ramon is tired, overworked, and drained — and in this season, that might be expected.When you are building something new, expanding a vision, launching a project, or pushing something important forward, there are moments when the work gets heavier. For Ramon, that season is connected to growing Breakfast with Champions. But the bigger question is for all of us: are we willing to go through a season of extra effort, hustle, grind, and imperfection to build something meaningful?In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon talks about the reality of building in a new season. Sometimes tired does not mean you are failing. Sometimes it means you are stretching. Sometimes imperfect does not mean something is broken. Sometimes it means something is being built.This conversation is not about celebrating burnout. It is about understanding the difference between reckless hustle and purposeful hard work. It is about giving yourself grace, building smarter systems, asking for help, resting wisely, and staying connected to the bigger mission.If you are launching something, growing something, rebuilding something, or stepping into a new season of leadership, this episode will encourage you to keep going — but to keep going with purpose, wisdom, and care.Brought to you by Bitdefender Small Business Security - be more secure - www.Bitdefender.com/ramonGet help for your business with Ramon, in Ramon Office Hours - www.RamonOfficeHours.comJoin us in Genius Talks Mastermind - www.GeniusTalksMastermind.com

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray speaks with Jean Moncrief, the new owner of Small Giants, a community of business owners who believe in building companies that are intentional, meaningful, profitable, and people-centered.Jean shares his own journey as an entrepreneur who once chased revenue growth from $5 million to $20 million, only to realize that growth without intention can leave teams confused, cultures strained, and owners exhausted. He explains the heart of the Small Giants philosophy: choosing to be great rather than simply chasing size.The conversation explores why entrepreneurs often resist help, how community can change the way business owners lead, and why vulnerability is one of the most powerful tools for sustainable growth. Jean also shares the importance of hiring the right people, building around clear values, and creating a business that can thrive without becoming a burden.Ramon and Jean also discuss leadership, purpose, the power of the business “flywheel,” and Jean’s book, Finding Freedom, which focuses on building companies that are valuable, transferable, and healthy for owners, employees, customers, vendors, and communities.Key Takeaways:Great businesses are not always the biggest businesses. Intentional growth matters more than growth at all costs.Entrepreneurs need community, coaching, and trusted peers because no business owner knows everything.The right team is essential. Business is a team sport, and values matter as much as performance.Hiring “A players” only works when those people fit the company’s culture and values.A valuable business should be transferable, sustainable, and built with strong leadership at the center.

What if your next big idea does not need to start big?On this episode of The Rundown with Ramon Show, Ramon Ray talks about the power of creating a small version of your idea, testing it with real people, learning from the feedback, and improving as you go.You do not always need the perfect website, app, course, event, service, or business model before you begin. Sometimes you need to launch something simple, see if it creates value, and then decide whether to improve it, monetize it, pivot, or start over.This is a conversation about action, experimentation, value creation, honest evaluation, and building smarter without waiting for everything to be perfect.

Do all relationships need to be deep, intentional, and purposeful?Some people crave deep friendships. Others are perfectly fine with lighter, more casual connections. And sometimes, without meaning to, we may offend someone because we were not as intentional, present, or purposeful as they expected us to be.On this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray explores the difference between surface relationships and deep friendships, why both can have value, and how to better understand what people may need from us relationally.We’ll talk about friendship, business relationships, emotional expectations, networking, and the importance of being human — without forcing every relationship to become something it is not.Join Ramon for a thoughtful conversation about connection, expectations, and how we show up for people.This is The Rundown with Ramon Show, powered by Bitdefender small business security and Genius Talks Events

Is your passion keeping you from profit?In this episode, Ramon Ray, small business expert, talks about the tension many entrepreneurs, creators, coaches, and leaders feel: you want to serve, help, give, and make an impact — but you also need to make money, build a real business, and protect your time.We’ll unpack the difference between a nonprofit, a business, a mission, and volunteer work — and why making money and doing good are not enemies.Passion is powerful. But passion alone is not a business model.If you’ve ever felt guilty charging, said yes when you should have said no, or confused being busy with being profitable, this conversation is for you.Watch the episode and ask yourself: is my mission sustainable, or am I serving from exhaustion?#Entrepreneurship #SmallBusiness #PurposeDrivenBusiness #Profit #Leadership #RamonRay

So many business owners are running hobbies, but they're not running business. Many business owners are running a passion project, which is costing them money.But are they focused enough on running a successful and profitable business.This live discussion and special edition of The Rundown with Ramon was amazing.

- Is it time to create an app just for your needs?- Google's task minions are changing search- Are you being paid for your work?- You thought the team meeting went well, but it didn't- Advertising is flooding ChatGPT is that good or bad?- Don't blame AI for bad things like firing someoneThe Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender - https://Bitdefender.com/ramon - small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind - join us across the country - https://GeniusTalksMastermind.com See less

- UFC at The White House - lessons for your business- Agent Opus Clip is NEXT LEVEL video making- American Airlines and Starlink - no downtime anywhere?- Rise in podcast networksThe Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender - https://Bitdefender.com/ramon - small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind - join us across the country - https://GeniusTalksMastermind.com See less

Powerful topics that impact your business, insights and tips to help you get better and better - with Ramon- Is Bernie Sanders right? Is AI our demise?- How to build a company that withstands any era | Eric Ries, Lean Startup author- The Satya Nadella Playbook - The ruthless realpolitik of Microsoft’s “re-founder.”- Remaking Google's Search Engine - Don't miss out- Stop being safe, says Jason FeiferThe Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender - https://Bitdefender.com/ramon - small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind - join us across the country - https://GeniusTalksMastermind.com

Welcome to a brand new show, The Rundown with Ramon Show.- Why is it so important to celebrate you? To celebrate your wins?-Google's slew of NEW announcements, some really important to know, others meh- They fired their HR staff, what a mistake - IMHO- Airbnb expands to luggage storage and car rentals - what can YOUR business learn from this?The Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender - https://Bitdefender.com/ramon - small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind - join us across the country - https://GeniusTalksMastermind.com

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, I sit down with Sara Nay, CEO of Duct Tape Marketing, to talk about her journey from intern to CEO, the importance of strategy over tactics, and how AI is reshaping the future of marketing. We also dive into leadership lessons from working in a family business and what’s next for one of the most trusted brands in small business marketing.Key Topics Covered:Sara Nay’s journey to CEOThe evolution of Duct Tape MarketingWhy strategy beats tactics every timeFractional CMO and modern marketing structuresLeadership lessons from working with familyVisionary vs integrator roles in businessThe future of marketing with AIMarketing Leadership as a Service

Kevin Hart's absence - is it affecting his agency? Lessons for all of us in the importance of leadership and active involvement in our companies.How can you get people to say YES to your ideas, these 4 tips from Jason Feifer, executive editor of Entrepreneur will help.Going alone is not a badge of honor says Marina Middelton, CEO of Create and Cultivate.Also, Alexandria Nicole ask a powerful question about the importance of CONTENT - my answer - every business must think like a publisher. Content helps you get awareness and builds trust for your brand.The Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind.

Why hiring an operations manager is often the next hire for a growing business. We've used virtual assistants, your still overwhelmed, doing too much and not delegating enough. An operations manager can help you scale.- You need to hire an operations manager- Is it ok to call someone without a schedule- Valley Girl says be more productive- FIFA knows about entertainment - do you?- Googlebook - worth buying this new gadget?- AI shopping brings security risksThe Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind.

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, I sit down with Jessica Johnson Cope, CEO of a third-generation security firm, to talk about legacy, leadership, and scaling a business through relationships and resilience. From inheriting a struggling company during the 2008 financial crisis to growing it into a multi-state operation, Jessica shares powerful lessons on mindset, community, and the importance of doing the work.Key Takeaways:Why business is simple—but requires real workHow relationships and community drive long-term growthThe importance of showing up consistentlyWhy your vision is probably too smallHow to build systems that allow you to scaleThe truth about working with large organizations and procurementHow mindset shifts unlock bigger opportunitiesThe balance between family and business in legacy buildingWhy scaling is no longer optional—it’s necessaryHow to think beyond today and build for future generations

Be careful of assumptions. Mak Cuban learned a valuable lesson in this when he sold his basketball team, the Mavs. He's got billion-dollar regrets, and we all can avoid regrets. But give yourself grace, each time.- Tiger moms vs BETA moms (what kind of leader are you?)- Barnes and Noble, is it coming back (resilience)- AI dictation tools (pros and cons)- Licensing deal goes wrong? Lessons from Kevin Hart- And more that can help YOU live your best life or grow your businessThe Rundown with Ramon Show is powered by Bitdefender small business security and Genius Talks Mastermind. See less

Every business owner feels the pressure to keep up with technology, but what really matters and what is just hype? In this powerful episode of The Rundown with Ramon Ray, we dive into a candid conversation with the Vice President of Sales and Operations of Verizon, Mike Caralis, on how customer experience, AI, connectivity, and cybersecurity are reshaping modern business.The discussion breaks down why technology is no longer optional, how AI is helping teams work smarter, and why seamless customer experiences are now the biggest competitive advantage. You’ll also hear practical advice on avoiding common tech investment mistakes and how the right partnerships can simplify complex decisions.If you’re a small business owner, entrepreneur, or leader trying to stay competitive in a fast-moving digital world, this conversation offers real insights you can actually use.Watch the full interview to learn how smart technology adoption today can fuel growth tomorrow.

In this powerful and deeply personal episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon Ray takes you behind the scenes of five major events in five weeks—sharing real lessons from the stage, backstage, and everywhere in between. From hosting high-profile conferences to stepping into the unseen role of an “armor bearer,” Ramon unpacks what it really means to lead, serve, and grow in your zone of genius.This episode isn’t just about being seen—it’s about understanding the value of being unseen. Ramon shares how doing the hidden work, serving others at a high level, and leaning into where you are wanted can unlock new levels of opportunity and fulfillment.You’ll also hear practical insights on asking for what you deserve, capturing testimonials, handling pressure in real-time, and pushing forward even when things feel uncertain. Whether you're an entrepreneur, speaker, or leader, this episode will challenge you to step up, serve deeper, and pick yourself first—imperfectly but boldly.Key Takeaways:The most powerful leaders aren’t just on stage—they know how to serve behind the scenes with excellence and intentionBeing an “armor bearer” means anticipating needs, protecting others, and delivering value without needing recognitionDon’t wait to be noticed—ask for testimonials, opportunities, and visibility when you’ve earned itLean into the people and spaces where you are valued instead of chasing environments that tolerate youYour greatest strength may not be something you planned—it’s something you discover and choose to own fully

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, Ramon shares a powerful, real-time reflection after returning from Social Media Marketing World and speaking at the inaugural My Small Business Conference. But this isn’t about tactics or marketing hacks—it’s about something deeper: the courage to start before you’re ready.Ramon breaks down the behind-the-scenes reality of launching something new—the excitement, the imperfections, and the lessons that only come from doing. Through the story of first-time conference creators who chose to build their own stage instead of waiting for one, he delivers a clear message to entrepreneurs: stop waiting to be chosen and start choosing yourself.From business headlines like Spirit Airlines’ shutdown to bold (and questionable) moves like GameStop attempting to buy eBay, Ramon ties it all back to a central truth—success belongs to those who take action, not those who wait for perfect conditions.If you’ve been hesitating, overthinking, or waiting for validation, this episode is your push to move.Key Takeaways:You must take the first step, even when it’s messy, imperfect, or uncertainWaiting for someone else to “pick you” delays your growth and opportunityFirst-time efforts are supposed to have flaws—that’s where real learning happensCelebrate starting, not just success—doing it once is already a winMomentum is built through action, not planning alone

In this episode of The Rundown with Ramon, I talk with Judy Name, head of LinkedIn Small Business, about how entrepreneurs can simplify growth by leveraging smarter tools, better outreach strategies, and consistent visibility. We break down how to save time, build real relationships, and use AI without losing your authenticity.Entrepreneurs are overwhelmed—simplification is the new growth strategyCentralized tools can save 5–7 hours per weekAI should enhance your work, not replace your voiceThe best outreach strategy is still “be human and helpful”Personalized messaging beats generic automation every timeConsistent posting builds visibility—even without engagementMost people are watching your content silentlyHiring is a process—start simple and refine as you goNetworking remains the most powerful growth leverAuthenticity is your biggest advantage in a world of automation