Changemakers Collective

We’re taking a little holiday break to rest, reset, and reflect – but in the meantime, we’re counting down your favorite episodes of 2025! This one took the top spot. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the Changemakers Collective this year.It’s no secret that many kids are slipping through the cracks of the education system, but with the right engagement, we can turn this ship around. In this episode, David Spellmon Jr. shares how his organization, Positive Archer Solutions, solves this problem through hip-hop music. Yes, you read that right: David connects with students through music to build social and emotional learning skills to set them up for success in school and in life. This episode is an incredible case study on turning your passion into purpose and using it to solve a problem and maximize impact.David Spellmon Jr. is an education advocate and Founder of Positive Archer Solutions, which creates student success by focusing on the whole child by incorporating Hip Hop Pedagogy, social and emotional learning, service learning, and building social capital. Through speaking, program facilitation, and workshops, David brings an innovative approach to improving academic and behavioral outcomes for students and improving school climate. ​​Some key takeaways from this episode include:How David’s upbringing in a military family taught him the power of connection across culturesThe lightbulb moment that cued him into using hip-hop as educational curriculumDavid’s mission to create more connection to our students in the educational system to boost literacy ratesBehind the scenes of creating and monetizing your own educational frameworkWhy it’s our job as entrepreneurs to challenge the status quoYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

We’re taking a little holiday break to rest, reset, and reflect – but in the meantime, we’re counting down your favorite episodes of 2025! This one took the top spot. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the Changemakers Collective this year.Anybody can point out problems and call out what’s not working, but fewer people actually take the time to meaningfully solve those problems. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being a problem solver, not a problem identifier. This includes the necessity of leadership humility, which involves listening to team members, embracing their ideas, and sharing decision-making authority. We also offer insights on effective hiring practices to build a dynamic team aligned with your organization’s values. If you’re ready to stop being the bottleneck in your business by empowering your team to solve problems as they see them, this episode is for you!In this episode, we cover:How you as the business owner might be discouraging problem-solvingTeaching your team how to take responsibility for problems they noticeCoaching your team vs. consulting for your teamLearning not to hold on too tightly to all the decision-making in your businessInterview questions to help you build your problem-solving teamEncouraging collaboration among team members to increase creative problem solvingYou started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

We’re taking a little holiday break to rest, reset, and reflect – but in the meantime, we’re counting down your favorite episodes of 2025! This one took the top spot. Thank you for listening, sharing, and being part of the Changemakers Collective this year.What happens when your dream job isn’t hiring, AI’s doing half the work, and your degree feels outdated before your student loans kick in? In this episode, we sit down with recent college grad Kailyn Kelly to talk about the job hunt in the age of automation, and how today’s young professionals are making big choices in a fast-changing world. Kailyn Kelly is a digital content producer at Novice Studios who blends sharp marketing instincts with a Gen Z superpower: knowing how to make AI work for people, not the other way around. A Clemson grad and natural connector, she’s passionate about creating space for curiosity, creativity, and growth - in work and in life.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Career paths are not linear, and that is okay. Informational interviews are underrated and invaluable.The environment you work in matters as much as (if not more than) the salary.You don’t have to have it all figured out… at 22 or at 42.AI is changing everything, but there’s power in learning how to work with it, not fear it.You started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Growth can be intoxicating… until it threatens the very thing that made your business meaningful in the first place. In this episode, we unpack what it looks like to scale without losing your identity, whether you’re transitioning leadership across generations, bringing in a partner or investor, or simply expanding your reach. We talk about impact thesis vs. revenue thesis, how to communicate culture shifts, and how to let how you go to market evolve without compromising why you’re in business at all.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why identity loss happens when scaling (and how to avoid it)The difference between pivoting and losing your identityHow a clear impact thesis protects culture during transitionsReal‑world challenges of family business successionWhat to communicate (and when) to your team during big changeYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

When you’re the leader, everyone’s looking to you – even when you’re barely holding it together. You can’t avoid the storm, but you can prepare for it. In this episode, we’re getting real about what happens when the pressure ramps up, the team’s looking at you for answers, and you feel like everything’s on fire. From stress-testing your business to slowing yourself down in the middle of chaos, we’re sharing how we’ve learned (the hard way) to stay strategic and grounded when things feel anything but calm.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why “fighting fires” isn’t a strategy, and how real firefighters can teach you somethingThe self-awareness shift that keeps leaders from spiraling under pressureHow your calm (or chaos) sets the tone for your team’s trustTactical ways to pressure-test your business and prepare your peopleWhat we’ve learned from real-life breakdown moments – and how to lead through themYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

You’re stuck -- too big to keep doing it all yourself, too small to afford full-time executive hires. So you Google a “fractional CFO” or lean on a buddy who used to consult… and still find yourself doing most of the heavy lifting.That’s the trap of misfiring on your leadership gap. And in this episode, we’re naming it. Fractional doesn’t mean part-time advice. It means rolling up sleeves, sharing responsibility, and building a business that runs without burning you out. Let’s pull back the curtain on what real fractional leadership looks like -- and what it absolutely doesn’t.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why most consultants fall short, and what makes a true fractional leader worth the investmentHow to vet a fractional hire beyond the resume: shared values, willingness to implement, and day-one team fitThe mindset shift leaders must make: from telling people what to do to aligning around shared goalsWhy you must onboard fractional leaders like employees -- and still retain strategic and legal controlThe real goal: not just plugging a hole, but multiplying your capacity and preparing for a full-time hireYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Fear doesn’t clock out. When fear enters the workplace, whether from immigration raids, racial tension, or political rhetoric, leaders face a choice: ignore it, or lead through it. In this episode, we’re sharing raw, personal insights on how the current immigration enforcement climate is impacting employees across industries, and what it looks like to lead with clarity, compassion, and courage when your team needs it most.Some key takeaways from this episode include:How immigration enforcement is directly impacting employee wellbeing, safety, and attendanceWhy “just doing your job” isn’t enough when fear enters the workplaceHow to have hard conversations about politics, race, and religion with empathy and boundariesWhat it means to lead with compassion, even when your beliefs differ from your team’sThe role of business leaders in standing up for dignity, safety, and humanity at workYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Being your own boss sounds like freedom – until the burnout kicks in. You’re doing the work and finding the work. Managing invoices and building systems. Serving clients and planning the next move. There’s no room left to grow, much less rest. That’s the hidden trap of solopreneurship – and in this episode, we break down why collaboration is the only way to scale your mission sustainably. We unpack the mindset shift required to move from solo to syndicate and share actionable steps to find the right collaborators who can multiply your message and unlock new momentum. If you’ve hit a ceiling in your impact or income and know something’s got to change, this episode is your roadmap out. Links mentioned:Just Add a Zero by Chad JenkinsSome key takeaways from this episode include:The real reason most solopreneurs cap out at ~$200K/yearHow collaboration unlocks capacity and increases client reachChoosing the right partners based on values, audience, and aligned goalsTurning competition into co-creation through shared problem-solvingWhy building in community makes you a better leader, fasterYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

You’re showing up early, staying up late, and still feeling behind. What if the grind isn’t the answer, and never was? In this episode of Changemakers Collective, we call out hustle culture and make a bold case for a better strategy: wisdom. From time-blocking to team-building, we challenge the myth that being busy means being effective. A surprise guest appearance from Kristen Stegall of Novice Studios brings the conversation to life with a powerful real-time coaching moment that is full of real-world insights about burnout, business growth, and learning to lead with intention.Kristen Stegall is the founder of Novice Studios, a podcast agency that helps business owners align their content efforts with broader brand and revenue goals. She’s known for making clients feel seen, heard, and confident on camera.Connect with Kristen:LinkedInNovice Studios’ WebsiteEpisodes mentioned:44. Escaping the Legacy Trap | What If You Only Had One Year Left?Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why being busy isn’t the same as being effectiveHow to stop measuring success by effort and start measuring it by impactThe difference between hustling hard and hustling smartWhy time-blocking and strategic thinking beat endless hoursHow growth without process breaks the business before it builds itYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

What if the scariest boss you ever had didn’t just haunt your memories, but quietly shaped how you lead today? In this special Halloween episode, we dive into our real leadership horror stories, from intimidation and gas‑lighting, to passive‑aggressive culture and fear‑driven control. What’s behind the fear? Lessons you need as a leader: how to read the room, lead with humility, build psychological safety, and stop letting ego or fear drive your decisions. This one’s part confessional, part gut‑check, and and 100% about how self‑aware leadership doesn’t have to be scary.Episodes mentioned:38. A Boomer, A Millennial, & A Gen Alpha Walk Into a Meeting… | Cross-Gen Leadership That Protects The Mission44. Escaping the Legacy Trap | What If You Only Had One Year Left?Books mentioned:The Carpenter by Jon GordonStrength to Strength by Arthur C. BrooksJust Add a Zero by Chad JenkinsSome key takeaways from this episode include:How the boss you hated taught you how not to leadWhy self‑awareness is the first defense against leadership that scares instead of servesThe difference between confidence and control, and why fear‑driven leadership kills innovation and trustWhat true psychological safety sounds like -- and how it’s the platform for growthThe mindset shift that turns a one‑time volunteer into a lifelong advocateYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

What would change about your leadership, your life, or your business if you only had one year left to leave your mark? In this episode, we challenge you to zoom out from the day-to-day grind and rethink success through the lens of legacy. From redefining success beyond money and milestones, to exposing the fear-based decisions that keep us small, this episode is a mindset shift for impact-driven leaders who are stuck in the tension between growing a business and living a life of meaning.Books mentioned:Who's Holding Your Ladder? by Sam ChandFrom Strength to Strength by Arthur C. BrooksEpisodes mentioned:Episode 40: Do You Really Need A Strategic Plan?Some key takeaways from this episode include:The critical question that clarifies the problem you’re truly here to solveWhy chasing dollars alone can cost you the impact you care aboutThe difference between adding accomplishments and uncovering the masterpiece that’s already in youWhy fear-driven decisions shrink your leadership - and your legacyHow a “reverse bucket list” realigns your business with your purposeYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

What if your leadership habits are quietly holding your team back? In this episode, we unpack the subtle ways even the best-intentioned leaders can erode trust, stifle innovation, and slowly drain morale. If you’ve ever promoted a top performer who flopped, avoided tough conversations with toxic team members, or shrugged off feedback because you were overwhelmed, we see you. These moments compound over time, and the ripple effects are real. But the good news? They’re totally fixable. This episode walks you through the mindsets and behaviors to shift now, and includes a FREE Leader Self-Audit Checklist, a practical diagnostic tool to help you reflect and take immediate action with your team.Links mentioned:The Leadership ChallengeDownload the FREE Leader Self-Audit ChecklistSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why high performers don’t always make great leadersHow leaders unintentionally discourage innovation and ownershipWhat real feedback sounds like (and what it requires of you)The difference between showing empathy and getting walked overWhy trust is built slow, and lost fastYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

We've all been in one: the meeting after the meeting. It’s where real opinions surface and decisions get rehashed, often outside the room where they belong. In this episode, we break down why it happens and how leaders can eliminate it for good. If you're tired of the side conversations, unclear agendas, and “Was I supposed to know that?” moments, this one’s for you. These breakdowns aren’t just annoying; they're expensive. But the fix isn’t more structure. It’s better leadership.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why the meeting after the meeting signals deeper leadership issuesHow to build trust and clarity into your meeting rhythmsThe simple “no-fail meeting” checklist every team should useWhy storytelling can derail (or deepen) a productive meetingWhat real psychological safety looks like in decision-makingYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

You’ve probably left a strategy meeting feeling fired up, only to watch progress stall a few weeks later. It’s not a people problem. It’s a rhythm problem. In this episode, we unpack the essential difference between strategic planning (the long-term vision) and agility planning (the short-term execution engine). If you lead a team, run a nonprofit, or are building an impact-driven business, this conversation will show you how to create a plan that’s actionable, adaptable, and aligned with your mission.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why your strategic plan keeps stalling outWhat agility planning actually looks likeThe culture shift that makes daily stand-ups worth doingHow one word (“unless…”) can change the whole roomWhat visionary leaders often miss (and how to fix it)You started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Strategic planning is something leaders talk about all the time. But when priorities shift, tech disrupts the market, and teams change, how useful is a long-term plan? In this episode, we challenge outdated models and unpack how to make strategic planning relevant, agile, and truly transformational for your business. Whether you're a startup founder or leading a legacy org, this one’s for you.Links mentioned:Rhythm: How to Achieve Breakthrough Execution and Accelerate Growth by Patrick TheanSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why 3-5 year plans are obsolete (and what to do instead)How to use "stepping stones" to climb your own EverestThe importance of psychological safety and diverse voices in the roomWhy the right facilitator can make or break your planning processHow to create alignment between vision, mission, and daily executionYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

What happens when your dream job isn’t hiring, AI’s doing half the work, and your degree feels outdated before your student loans kick in? In this episode, we sit down with recent college grad Kailyn Kelly to talk about the job hunt in the age of automation, and how today’s young professionals are making big choices in a fast-changing world. Kailyn Kelly is a digital content producer at Novice Studios who blends sharp marketing instincts with a Gen Z superpower: knowing how to make AI work for people, not the other way around. A Clemson grad and natural connector, she’s passionate about creating space for curiosity, creativity, and growth - in work and in life.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Career paths are not linear, and that is okay. Informational interviews are underrated and invaluable.The environment you work in matters as much as (if not more than) the salary.You don’t have to have it all figured out… at 22 or at 42.AI is changing everything, but there’s power in learning how to work with it, not fear it.You started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

10,000 Americans turn 65 every day in 2025 and hundreds of CEOs are retiring. What does this historic leadership shift mean for your business? From Boomers to Gen X, Millennials to Gen Alpha, we break down how each generation leads, communicates, and clashes – and what your organization can do to bridge the gaps with clarity and cultural intelligence.What do Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, and Gen Alpha actually expect from leadership? How do you build a culture that serves all of them and still gets stuff done? Let’s talk about the new leadership challenge (and opportunity) of our time.Links mentioned:Forbes: The Leadership Crisis Is Here – And Most Companies Aren’t ReadySome key takeaways from this episode include:Why leadership isn’t a one-size-fits-all strategy across generationsHow to create meaningful mentorship that passes down values, not just skillsThe shift from traditional strategic planning to agile, real-time forecastingWhy Gen Alpha expects flexibility and how legacy leaders can adaptTools and tactics to unify your culture across generations and experience levelsYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

AI isn’t the future. It’s already changing everything from payroll to people management, whether we’re ready or not. As leaders, we’re facing a choice: let the pace of innovation pull us off course, or build organizations that use AI without losing our soul. In this episode, we dig into what it really means to lead with heart and purpose in a world where automation and technology are speeding ahead. We unpack what integrity looks like in the face of automation, and how to lead through this disruption with clarity, care, and courage.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why AI is a tool and cannot substitute for real critical, creative, or strategic thinkingHow to let your mission and values drive how you adopt new tools and techThe truth about automation replacing your team’s humanityWhy you cannot wait to retrain and retool and need to prepare your people nowBusinesses fail more often from growing too fast than from not growing at allYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Some weeks feel like a sprint on a treadmill with a broken slow down button! In this Wind Down episode, it’s just me, Steff, joined by podcast strategist and Novice Studios founder, Kristen Stegall. We’re talking about what happens when life floods your carefully time-blocked calendar (or your kid’s daycare) with chaos – and how to lead through it anyway.If you’re a solopreneur, a parent-preneur, or a small team leader juggling real-life emergencies with client expectations, I hope this episode reminds you: your humanity isn’t a liability – it’s part of your leadership.Kristen Stegall is the founder of Novice Studios, a marketing agency that helps business owners align their podcasting efforts with broader content and sales strategies. She’s known for making clients feel seen, heard, and confident on camera. Connect with Kristen:LinkedInNovice StudiosKristen’s Media Makeover ServiceSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why clear communication systems beat “powering through” every timeWhat trust in your systems and team actually looks like under pressureThe importance of building your “village” before you need itHow transparency builds stronger client relationships – and when to draw boundaries tooThe mindset shift from doing it all, to leading with intentionYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

This week, we’re unpacking a question we ask every client and ourselves: What would break first if everything went right? If your business doubled tomorrow, would your systems hold up? Would your team? We talk through what it looks like to pressure test your business for growth, not just survival, and why too many founders plan for failure but not for success. Because if you’re serious about scaling impact, you’ve got to get honest about your fault lines.Some key takeaways from this episode include:What we mean by “pressure testing” a business (and why we do it with every client)The common blind spots that show up when success hits faster than expectedWhy your P&L won’t tell you if you’re ready to scale, but your processes willThe surprising reason we ask clients what would break if everything went rightHow to know when it’s time to leave your 9–5 and bet on your own businessYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Every changemaker has a few bloopers. Our first workshop flopped. The website said too much. And yes, we paid way too much for software we barely used. In this episode we’re looking back at Silverback Ventures’ early missteps that helped shape who we are—and how we lead. If you’ve ever launched something that fell flat or second-guessed your strategy after the fact, this one’s for you. You’re not alone — and we’ve been there, too.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why our first-ever workshop launch didn’t land — and what it taught us about visibilityWhy your personal network isn’t the same as a customer baseThe tragic tale of our way-too-long elevator pitchHow bloated messaging buried our brandThe costly mistake of skipping strategy and overspending on tools we didn’t needYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

In this episode of The Changemakers Collective, Scott and Steff dive deep into the foundational role of core values in building sustainable, purpose-driven businesses. They challenge the idea that values are just buzzwords on a wall, and instead reveal how they are practical guardrails for decision-making, hiring, leadership, and company culture. Drawing from personal stories and real-world client experiences, they unpack why your core values must align with your personal beliefs and how to ensure they remain actionable, not aspirational.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Your real values don’t show up on paper—they show up under pressureA surprising place to start when defining your company’s culture (hint: it’s not the team)How your hiring decisions might be sabotaging your mission—without you realizing itWhy alignment—not perfection—is the real secret to growing a values-led businessYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

It’s easy to treat mission statements like decorative plaques—nice words tucked away and rarely revisited. But what if your mission statement was your daily compass, shaping every decision, client interaction, and team conversation?In this episode, Scott and Steff break down how to craft (and actually live) a mission statement that fuels your organization’s journey. Whether you’re leading a nonprofit, scaling a business, or just starting your impact path, this conversation will help you ground your purpose in practice.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why your mission, vision, and values only work when they work togetherThe one test that reveals if your mission is just a statement—or how you really show upHow your mission can help you find the right clients (and ditch the wrong ones)What most orgs get wrong about writing a mission—and how to avoid mission creepWhen it’s time to rewrite your mission—and how to do it without losing your wayYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

You’ve heard Scott and Steff talk strategy before… but this time, we’re switching it up.In this episode, Steff sits with Kristen Stegall to pull back the curtain for a candid conversation about the realities of being a woman entrepreneur, provider, and powerhouse in today’s business world.From making more than your partner to unlearning productivity guilt, they talk through the often unspoken experiences of leading with heart and ambition. This isn’t about fitting into the mold — it’s about giving yourself permission to do it your way.Kristen Stegall is the founder and CEO of Novice Studios, a creative agency helping brands show up with clarity and consistency through story-driven content.Connect with Kristen:LinkedInNovice StudiosLinks mentioned:Fair Play: A Game-Changing Solution for When You Have Too Much to Do (and More Life to Live) by Eve RodskySome key takeaways from this episode include:Why being a woman entrepreneur still comes with invisible weightHow to navigate the shifting power dynamics when you earn more than your partnerWhy redefining leadership as a woman starts with unlearning what we’ve been taught to proveWhy building in “me time” isn’t selfish, it’s essentialThe tradeoffs, truths, and takeaways from women who’ve lived itYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Everyone talks about the breakthrough. But the truth is, the in-between is where grit is built.In this episode, Scott and Steff unpack what it really means to have grit in business - and how it’s often not about pushing harder, but staying present. Grit is what carries you through the pain of progress. It’s what keeps you going when you don’t feel strong, but you are faithful. And it’s what reminds you that just because it hurts… doesn’t mean you’re doing it wrong.If you're somewhere between breakdown and breakthrough, this episode is for you.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why grit is not just grinding 24/7 (and what it really is instead)The difference between stubbornness and perseveranceHow to build a culture of resilience inside your teamWhat it means to “look back to move forward”Why every founder needs a circle of truthtellers to help them up when they’re tiredYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

When you’re over-capacity, stuck in the weeds, and questioning your value - you don’t need a productivity hack. You need a new perspective.In this episode, we sit down with Novice Studios founder Kristen Stegall to talk about the quiet burnout that crept up on her, how she almost disqualified herself from doing Prepping for Everest… and why going through it ended up changing everything. Kristen shares what it was like to step into the role of strategist, reimagine her business model, and face the voices in her head that told her she wasn’t experienced enough to lead.This conversation is honest, powerful, and a real behind-the-scenes look at what Prepping for Everest can do for entrepreneurs who are ready to scale - but stuck in survival mode.Kristen Stegall is the founder of Novice Studios, a marketing agency that helps business owners align their podcasting efforts with broader content and sales strategies. She’s known for making clients feel seen, heard, and confident on camera. Kristen is redefining what it means to be a producer - and stepping into a visionary role in her business.🏔️ Learn more about Silverback Ventures on our website.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Why Kristen thought she wasn’t ready for Prepping for Everest - and why she was wrongThe hidden costs of pushing through burnout without pausing to reevaluateHow Prepping for Everest gave Kristen a framework to confidently stepping into strategyWhat shifted when Kristen stopped seeing herself as a podcast producer and started owning her role as a marketing leaderHow a single question (“Why double your revenue?”) changed the way she sets goalsYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

You’re making bold moves, chasing growth, and doing the hard work to get better… but what if the “progress” you’re pushing for is actually doing more harm than good?In this episode, we’re diving into the difference between healthy discomfort and damaging decisions. Scott and Steff introduce the OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), a powerful decision-making model adapted from fighter pilots that helps you evaluate risk, respond to changing inputs, and avoid strategic injury. They explore how to know if you’re stuck in decision paralysis, why surrounding yourself with truth-tellers matters, and how to check whether your progress is actually aligned with your vision.Some key takeaways from this episode include:How to tell if your progress is purposeful — or just piling on pressureWhat the OODA loop is and how it helps you act with intentionThe difference between acting and over-correcting before a decision can play outWhy you need truth-tellers in the room (not just cheerleaders)You started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

There’s the pain of being broken, and the pain of getting better. One leaves you stuck, the other moves you forward. But both can hurt. In this episode, Scott and Steff unpack the difference between pain that signals something’s wrong, and pain that means you’re healing. Whether it’s the slow work of rebuilding a team or the brutal honesty of realizing you can’t fix it alone, this conversation goes deep on the mindset shift required to move from broken to better. Because avoiding pain doesn’t make it go away - it just makes it permanent.Progress isn’t painless. But it’s worth it.Some key takeaways from this episode include:The surprising reason your pain points (like high turnover or low cash flow) are symptoms of broken systemsWhat happens when you finally admit you need helpThe difference between pain that traps you and pain that frees youWhy real healing happens one hard, humble,  step at a time - and why small steps are enoughYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Anybody can point out problems and call out what’s not working, but fewer people actually take the time to meaningfully solve those problems. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being a problem solver, not a problem identifier. This includes the necessity of leadership humility, which involves listening to team members, embracing their ideas, and sharing decision-making authority. We also offer insights on effective hiring practices to build a dynamic team aligned with your organization’s values. If you’re ready to stop being the bottleneck in your business by empowering your team to solve problems as they see them, this episode is for you!In this episode, we cover:How you as the business owner might be discouraging problem-solvingTeaching your team how to take responsibility for problems they noticeCoaching your team vs. consulting for your teamLearning not to hold on too tightly to all the decision-making in your businessInterview questions to help you build your problem-solving teamEncouraging collaboration among team members to increase creative problem solvingYou started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

When we ask business owners and teams what they need to get closer to their mission and vision, 99% percent of the time they all say “money.” And 99% percent of the time, that’s not actually what they need. In this episode, we explain why more money isn’t going to solve your problems, and why crafting a clear vision and aligning your existing financials to that vision is going to take you way further than a $10 million windfall.Links mentioned:Watch Episode 22: Scaling to 7-Figures Through Collaboration and Connection with Brian BoanWatch Episode 10: The Nuts & Bolts of Starting a BusinessVision Map by Joel MalmSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why more money is not going to solve your problemsThe magic question we ask our clients to unveil their pain pointsThe terrifying moment you decide to go all in… and what’s waiting for you on the other sideHow to think like an investor to make the most out of the money you canGetting out of survival mindset and into growth mindsetYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Are your board and staff working together harmoniously… or are they butting heads at every turn? In our experience, it’s usually the latter, so in this episode, we’re sharing how you can take steps to create more harmony between your staff and board. From getting aligned on the same vision to making sure the right people are in the right seats, this episode has everything you need to ensure your people are working hand-in-hand to achieve your mission.Links mentioned:Watch our Interns vs. Volunteers vs. Board Members seriesBook a Preparing for Everest vision casting session with the Silverback Ventures teamSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why having clear roles and responsibilities for your staff and board members is key for efficiency - and harmonyGetting clarity around your vision so board and staff are alignedMaking sure the right board members are connecting with the right staff membersLeveraging your board for way more than fundraisingTrusting your board members to be subject matter experts that will guide your staff to their highest and best useWhy you should be wary of board members who are on several boards that aren’t all solving the same problemYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Change is hard, but changes in leadership are another beast altogether. In this episode, we’re diving into how to navigate leadership changes in your organization in a way that keeps everyone aligned on the big picture vision. Plus, we share some behind the scenes intel on our Leadership Challenge workshop and how it facilitates a smooth and exciting leadership transition.Links mentioned:Vision Map by Joel MalmHow to Work With Silverback VenturesSome key takeaways from this episode include:The challenges that arise from changes in leadershipThe step-by-step of joining a new leadership role in your organizationWhat NOT to do during a leadership transitionBehind the scenes of a Leadership Challenge with Silverback VenturesWhy starting with a strong vision statement saves you a ton of headaches during leadership transitionsYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

It’s no secret that many kids are slipping through the cracks of the education system, but with the right engagement, we can turn this ship around. In this episode, David Spellmon Jr. shares how his organization, Positive Archer Solutions, solves this problem through hip-hop music. Yes, you read that right: David connects with students through music to build social and emotional learning skills to set them up for success in school and in life. This episode is an incredible case study on turning your passion into purpose and using it to solve a problem and maximize impact.David Spellmon Jr. is an education advocate and Founder of Positive Archer Solutions, which creates student success by focusing on the whole child by incorporating Hip Hop Pedagogy, social and emotional learning, service learning, and building social capital. Through speaking, program facilitation, and workshops, David brings an innovative approach to improving academic and behavioral outcomes for students and improving school climate. ​​Some key takeaways from this episode include:How David’s upbringing in a military family taught him the power of connection across culturesThe lightbulb moment that cued him into using hip-hop as educational curriculumDavid’s mission to create more connection to our students in the educational system to boost literacy ratesBehind the scenes of creating and monetizing your own educational frameworkWhy it’s our job as entrepreneurs to challenge the status quoYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Can a cup of coffee change the world? A product-based business can absolutely be impact-driven, and Bryan Boan’s coffee company, Rock Hill Coffee, is living proof of that. In this episode, Bryan shares the wild stories behind starting and scaling his company, how keeping collaboration and connection at the forefront has supported his growth, and his vision to make a global impact with Rock Hill Coffee.Connect with Bryan:Rock Hill Coffee WebsiteRock Hill Coffee IGBryan’s InstagramLinks mentioned:Vision Map by Joel MalmSome key takeaways from this episode include:Building a company that’s truly community focused and impact drivenHow Bryan got buy-in from his advisors and stakeholders for his vision even when they were unsure of the “how”Behind the scenes of scaling a business from $800 revenue months to almost seven figures in annual revenueLeveraging collaborations to scale your businessThat one time Bryan got a call from the secret service 👀Why treating your staff exceptionally well is more important than calling them “family”Bryan’s vision to open a coffee farm in Uganda and to empower the community around itYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Having an advisory board or a board of directors for your organization can multiply the impact of your organization’s mission… but only if you have the right people in the right seats. In this episode, we discuss the legal requirements for a board, our hot take on pay-to-play boards, and how to serve on a board if you want to make an impact for a cause you care about.Links mentioned:Oakworth Capital Bank | Central CarolinasTowneBankNo Fail Meetings by Michael HyattSome key takeaways from this episode include:Non-profit board requirements vs. for-profit board requirementsThe difference between advisory boards vs. boards of directorsHow to choose who should be on your boardSteps you should take to find and join a boardWhy we believe boards shouldn’t be pay-to-playHow long you should serve on a boardYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Have you ever showed up to an event as a volunteer, ready to put some time and energy into a cause you’re excited about, only to arrive and be unsure of what to do? We’ve all been there, and it’s not only a bad look for the organization, it’s also a lost opportunity to make an impact. In this episode, we discuss how to lead your volunteers to success, protecting yourself and your volunteers legally, and the limits of what volunteers can and can’t do.Links mentioned:Fact Sheet #14A: Non-Profit Organizations and the Fair Labor Standards ActCongress.gov: Volunteer Protection Act of 1997Some key takeaways from this episode include:Where to find labor laws around volunteers for your stateProtecting yourself if your paid staff wants to volunteer their timeGiving back to your volunteers without violating labor lawsOutlining clear tasks and expectations for volunteersExamples of volunteer events done well… and some not-so-stellar examplesWhy you should get to know your volunteersThe limits of what volunteers can do for your organizationYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

If we had a dollar for every time we heard someone say “we’ll just hire an intern to do that,” we’d be living on the beaches of Tahiti right now. So many people see interns as unpaid (or cheap) laborers that will solve all the problems in their business. In this episode, we’re breaking down some of the myths about interns, what an intern can and can’t do in your organization, and how to build an internship program full of the impact and integrity we know you want to keep at the forefront of your business.Links mentioned:Fact Sheet #71: Internship Programs Under The Fair Labor Standards ActSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why unpaid interns are counterproductiveThe actual requirements to have an internWhen it makes sense to have an intern vs. a part-time employeeHow to set clear (and reasonable!) expectations for your internsEnsuring your work needs meet your intern’s work requirementsCreating an internship program with responsibility and integrityYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

We wanted to end our financial literacy series by sharing the weekly practice that helped Steff and her husband pay off credit card debt, build savings, and maintain their financial gains. Having a weekly budget might not sound fun or glamorous, but it’s the key to making financial changes that will set you up for less stress, big future purchases, and a stronger relationship with your spouse. That sounds pretty fun to us!Watch the rest of the series:Part 1: These Habits are Keeping You BrokePart 2: Taking Control of Your Financial Future in Uncertain Economic TimesSome key takeaways from this episode include:Why we need to get comfortable talking about moneySteff’s wake up call that her family needed to get their finances togetherHow she changed her approach to credit cards and budgeting immediatelyThe link between weekly planning and saving moneyHow to plan for big future expenses or purchasesReframing your budget as an opportunity to reduce stressYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

There is a lot of uncertainty about the economy right now and how it will impact people personally and in their businesses. Some good news: you still have control over your financial future. In this episode, we discuss the ways you can take control of your financial future through intentional tax planning, building up savings accounts, and making smart (emphasis on smart) investments that will set you up for future purchases and retirement.Some key takeaways from this episode include:Paying taxes as a W-2 employee vs. a self-employed individualThe importance of financial recordkeeping (and having a finance team)Making strategic investments with the money you have left overHow to discern if an investment is putting your financial future at riskBalancing living on a budget with enjoying some of the finer things in lifeYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Talking about money can be difficult, especially if you grew up in a family that never talked about it. That’s why we’re running a financial literacy series on the podcast to help you understand the basics, starting with our money stories, how (and why) we tend to rack up debt, and our own experiences of financial hardship and how we worked through it. This series was inspired by Scott’s young adult mentees and their questions, but you might be surprised by some of the insights we cover!Links mentioned:Budget spreadsheetIn this episode, we cover:Calculating your assets and liabilities, and personal cash flowHow our upbringings affected how we viewed finances as an adultShifting your money mindset to planning for the future instead of living for right nowGetting clear about your financial prioritiesMaking a budget that feels empowering instead of dreadfulThe right way to use credit cards for rewards without racking up tons of debtHow Steff and her husband paid off debt and changed their relationship with moneyYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Team inefficiencies can be incredibly frustrating for you, your customers, and your team members. In this episode, we’re sharing how to spot those team inefficiencies and remedy them through strategic operational shifts. If you’re ready to get your team aligned on their roles, responsibilities, and processes so you all have more time and less frustration, this episode is for you!Links mentioned:Ready to stop being the bottle neck? Watch Episode 5: How to Be a Problem Solver, Not a Problem IdentifierNo-Fail Meetings by Michael HyattSome key takeaways from this episode include:The sneaky signs of inefficiencies in your operationsWho’s at fault for inefficiencies in your organizationThe importance of getting systems out of someone’s head and into a documentHow to get started with documenting your processesReducing time spent in meetings for more efficiencyPlanning for scalability instead of scrambling during growth seasonsYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Entrepreneurship and leading a company is such a fun ride, but man… It gets lonely sometimes. In this episode, we’re speaking directly to that feeling. Whether you’re just now starting your business, or you’ve led a company for decades, you’ve probably felt that loneliness at one point on your journey. In this episode, we’re talking through how to cope with those feelings, surround yourself with people who "get it," and put your mental health first as an entrepreneur.Links mentioned:Silence the Imposter by Gary FryeIn this episode, we cover:Why entrepreneurship - and leadership - can feel so lonelyThe difference between networking groups and coaching environmentsAvoiding unloading your stress onto your staffHow to find fellow business owners that you trust to help youWhy you need several business confidants instead of one default personRecognizing the value of having diverse perspectives on your business challengesThe impact of good ideas vs. good leadershipYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Figuring out what to charge for your products and services is one of the trickiest tasks for many entrepreneurs. Looking at what your competitors are charging is just one piece of the puzzle - and not even a helpful piece at that! In this episode, we dig into exactly what to include in your pricing, how to factor in unexpected expenses, and raising your prices with existing customers in a way that feels good for everyone.In this episode, we cover:Why being the cheapest on the market is hurting your salesEverything you need to factor into your pricingWhat to do when unexpected costs of supplies come upStructuring offers that truly address the wants and needs of your customersLearning to see the value of your time and expertiseConfidently asking for what your product or service is worthThe best way to raise your prices for existing customersGetting real about when your product is cost prohibitiveYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us: WebsiteSilverback Ventures LinkedInScott Woods LinkedInSteff Thomas LinkedInYouTube

Faith can be a very divisive topic, but it is a core value of our business at Silverback Ventures. It doesn’t have to be in yours, but if you’re curious about what it looks like in our business, we’re sharing how we balance being open about being Christian without becoming street preachers, why surrounding ourselves with people with different beliefs is important, and how you are bringing faith to work whether you know it or not.Some key takeaways from this episode include: Everyone is welcome at our table, regardless of your religion. Not only is that exactly what our Christian faith tells us to do, we genuinely believe that coming together leads to more positive impact. We are unapologetically Christian, and our faith is clearly stated in our values and vision statement. But the true embodiment of those words is in the compassion we infuse into the work we do with our clients and community. You are bringing your faith to work with you whether you’re intentional about it or not. The question is whether you are exemplifying your faith’s teachings while you’re at work.You started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

As a consulting firm specializing in impact-driven businesses, we work with a lot of nonprofit organizations to help them scale their mission. Nonprofits tend to get really good at doing more with fewer resources, so in this episode, we’re passing some of those skills onto you as a for-profit business owner. If you feel held up because you don’t have enough team members, capital, or some other tangible resource, this episode is for you!Links mentioned: Episode 10: The Nuts & Bolts of Starting a BusinessSome key takeaways from this episode include: What non-profit owners must STOP doing to be successful Finding channel partners to collaborate with Scott’s story of securing a game-changing contract without a huge marketing budget Why managing less money now will serve you well once you have more Our “multiply without addition” philosophy explained Building an infrastructure for your business while you’re small, so you’re ready for growth when it comesYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

Starting a business can feel overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, we break down the most critical - and commonly missed - elements of starting a strong business. We use concrete examples throughout so you can see exactly what each step looks like in practice. We cover a ton of strategies in this episode, but we created a free resource for the logistical steps so you’re fully covered with action items!➡️Click here to download our free Business Formation Checklist to save time, money, and stress so you can start making an impact today.Links mentioned: Todd Greene, CPA, PLLC Scarlett’s Web | Website Design & DevelopmentIn this episode, we cover: Things to consider before you choose a business name When to spend money, and when to do things yourself for free Where and how to register your business Business banking must-haves Beginning with impact and problem-solving in mindYou started your business to solve a problem and leave a lasting impact in the world, but now the inertia of your business has taken over and you’re too busy and burned out to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you accelerate growth and multiply impact through servant leadership.Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

If we asked you what your vision statement is, could you tell us right this second, or would you have to look it up? If your vision statement isn’t strong enough that you have it ready to share at all times, it probably isn’t strong enough to align your team on the impact you want to have. In this episode, we share how to overcome the common pitfalls of crafting a vision statement so you can maximize your impact through a shared company vision. In this episode, we cover: What organizations get wrong about vision statements The perfect length for a vision statement (it’s much shorter than you think!) How often you should revisit your vision statement Your role as a leader in articulating the vision The key elements of a great vision statement You started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership. Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

If there’s one thing we can agree on about work-life balance, it’s that it doesn’t exist. That being said, prioritizing time for family and self-care shouldn’t always feel like an uphill battle. In this episode, we discuss the unique challenges entrepreneurs face when it comes to spending time with their family while growing their business. We cover strategies from time blocking to boundary setting to help you avoid burnout and strengthen your personal relationships while you scale your business. In this episode, we cover: Why “work-life balance” is a myth Time management strategies to get you home at a good time Building a foundation of financial literacy to avoid overworking How your quality of life directly impacts your business The importance of surrounding yourself with mentors who exemplify putting their family first You started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership. Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

In an ever-growing business world, it might feel difficult to find a competitive advantage, especially if you’re in a saturated market. Your competitive advantage is the thing you do better, differently, or more targeted than anyone else, and it’s what can propel your business forward at lightning speed. In this episode, we talk through how to find your competitive advantage, then how to communicate it clearly to find your ideal clients. Some key takeaways from this episode include: Your competitive advantage can come from the unique problem you’re solving with your product or service. What product features are you delivering that no one else is? You have to be ready to pivot and evolve to keep up with changing markets and consumer habits. Your competitive advantage is still yours, but be willing to change how you deliver that unique advantage to meet your customer’s needs. Even if you’re in a saturated market, your client delivery experience, branding, messaging, or niche can all set you apart. That’s why it’s so important to spend enough time working on your business so you’re devoting time to honing these until they’re consistently attracting the right clients. You started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership. Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube

Anybody can point out problems and call out what’s not working, but fewer people actually take the time to meaningfully solve those problems. In this episode, we discuss the importance of being a problem solver, not a problem identifier. This includes the necessity of leadership humility, which involves listening to team members, embracing their ideas, and sharing decision-making authority. We also offer insights on effective hiring practices to build a dynamic team aligned with your organization’s values. If you’re ready to stop being the bottleneck in your business by empowering your team to solve problems as they see them, this episode is for you! In this episode, we cover: How you as the business owner might be discouraging problem-solving Teaching your team how to take responsibility for problems they notice Coaching your team vs. consulting for your team Learning not to hold on too tightly to all the decision-making in your business Interview questions to help you build your problem-solving team Encouraging collaboration among team members to increase creative problem solving You started your business to make an impact in the world, but now you’re too busy and burned out on the day-to-day operations to serve your community. That’s where we come in! Hosted by Scott Woods and Steff Thomas, the team behind Silverback Ventures, the Changemakers Collective podcast is here to help impact-driven business owners like you to accelerate their growth through servant leadership. Connect with Us:  Website Silverback Ventures LinkedIn Scott Woods LinkedIn Steff Thomas LinkedIn YouTube