How can companies effectively leverage AI to drive digital transformation and enhance client experience? West Stringfellow is a product and technology visionary with a knack for driving innovation and a track record that includes top roles at Amazon, PayPal, Visa, and Target. He's also the founder of HowDo, a company dedicated to coaching and consulting businesses on how to leverage data and technology for growth.Join Scott and West as they explore: * Getting everyone to agree on the current state of the business, which is crucial for successful innovation. * Creating a safe space for vulnerability and failure, which is essential for fostering innovation. * Communicating wins and celebrating progress throughout the innovation process. * The concept of zero-to-one innovation. * How companies can leverage AI to drive digital transformation. * Establishing a robust data strategy for implementing AI. * Building an AI-ready team. * How education will soon focus on empowering individuals to use AI effectively. Chapters for this episode: (03:39) West's Journey of Data and Innovation (07:32) Achieving Transformative Innovation (10:40) The Power of an Innovative Culture (17:56) Zero-to-One Innovation (21:31) Leveraging AI for Digital Transformation (27:59) Data Strategy in AI Implementation (39:20) Innovation for Meaningful Impact (47:47) The Future of Education and AI Thanks to West Stringfellow for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with West on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/weststringfellow/ Learn more about HowDo and get free training from some of the world’s top companies: https://howdo.com/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together,
How can business owners plan and execute a successful business exit? This episode offers expert insights on planning for a lucrative business exit, including building a strong succession plan, identifying and filling value gaps, and protecting your business during economic downturns. Wayne Zell, a seasoned business transaction expert, shares invaluable advice and real-world examples, emphasizing the importance of starting early and having the right team in place. Meet Wayne Zell, a CPA and attorney who has been the mastermind behind hundreds of successful business transactions, saving his clients millions of dollars and guiding them towards a smooth and profitable exit. Join Scott and Wayne as they explore: * The importance of planning your business exit from the very beginning. * Understanding the role of a revocable trust in protecting your assets. * Exploring the benefits and implications of a dynasty trust for wealth preservation. * Building a solid management succession plan to ensure business continuity. * Steps to ensure your employees are taken care of during and after a business sale. * Common red flags and mistakes to avoid when preparing to exit your business. * The emotional and psychological aspects of exiting a business for entrepreneurs.Chapters for this episode: (07:10) Wayne Zell's Journey to Becoming a Business Expert (08:54) The Importance of Exit Planning (15:28) Revocable Trusts and Dynasty Trusts (29:32) Increasing Business Value for Sale (34:13) Exiting in a Potential Downturn (36:35) Protecting Employees During a Sale (42:54) Exiting a Business: High Net Worth vs. Smaller Business Owners (48:26) Red Flags and Mistakes to Avoid Thanks to Wayne Zell for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Wayne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wayne-zell-5aa1147/ Get Wayne’s book: Your Multimillion-Dollar Exit: The Entrepreneur's Business Success(ion) Planner: A Blueprint for Wealth Guide: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0C2F2R753 Schedule a free business exit assessment with Wayne: https://www.aspiretoexit.com/get-started BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business....
How can entrepreneurs use AI and tech-driven platforms to solve real world problems? Have you ever met a tech startup expert who also dabbles in filmmaking, music, and writing? Meet Jason Sherman, the award-winning filmmaker turned tech entrepreneur who's here to inspire you to embrace innovation and achieve your most audacious goals. Jason is also the CEO of Vengo AI and the Spinnr app. Join Scott and Jason as they explore: * The power of artificial intelligence and tech-driven platforms in changing the way we interact, solve problems, and create value. * The importance of iteration, adaptation, and customer feedback in building successful products. * Using data in making informed business decisions. * The value of mentors and advisors in guiding entrepreneurs. * The importance of crafting a compelling story when pitching to investors. * Successfully attracting the right investors. Chapters for this episode: (03:00) From Filmmaking to Tech Startup Expert (11:00) The Power of AI in Business (17:30) The Future of AI (28:30) Advice for Entrepreneurs (37:30) Building Deeper Client Relationships with AI (46:30) Attracting the Right Investors (50:30) The Importance of PersistenceThanks to Jason Sherman for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Jason on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonsherman76/ Learn more about Vengo AI and boosting your sales: https://vengoai.com Learn more about the Spinnr app: https://spinnr.app/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge,...
Why do some companies continuously innovate while others struggle to keep up? Also, as an entrepreneur, how can you foster innovation within your business? Nick Jain, CEO of IdeaScale, is a leading innovator and business leader with a passion for helping organizations build a culture of innovation. With experience working with clients like NASA, Comcast, and Doctors Without Borders, Nick brings a wealth of knowledge to the table. Join Scott and Nick as they explore: * The three types of innovation: doing something better, doing it in a dramatically different way, and orthogonal innovation. * Building a culture of innovation in a company. * The challenges large organizations face in fostering innovation. * The importance of an idea meritocracy, where the best ideas win regardless of their source. * Practical strategies for implementing and incentivizing innovation. * Measuring the success of innovation efforts. * The impact of innovation on employee engagement and company culture. Chapters for this episode: 03:59 Nick Jain's Journey to IdeaScale11:50 The Three Types of Innovation18:26 Why Big Companies Struggle with Innovation25:28 Building a Culture of Innovation33:56 Idea Meritocracy and Continuous Improvement39:02 Understanding Finance in Innovation43:38 Practical Steps to Improve InnovationThanks to Nick Jain for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Nick on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickjain Learn about IdeaScale: https://ideascale.com/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and high-impact...
As an entrepreneur, are you leaving money on the table?In this episode, Scott sits down with James D. Wilton to discuss strategies for monetizing products and services. James shares insights on company objectives, pricing models, and the importance of perceived value. James D. Wilton is a pricing expert and the founder of Monovate. He has over 12 years of experience helping companies implement creative pricing strategies.Explored in this episode: * Pricing strategies should be guided by company objectives.* Communicating your product's value is key to capturing revenue.* Companies often underprice their products.* Founder-based pricing is common in startups.* Good, better, best pricing models are the most common in B2B SaaS.* Modular pricing models are more common in mature companies.* Companies should raise prices by appealing to fairness.* Usage-based pricing is trendy but not right for every business.* Generative AI is changing the world of pricing.Chapters for this episode: (03:12) James's Background and Entry into Pricing Strategy(07:01) Common Pricing Mistakes of Startups(14:17) Tailoring Pricing Strategies to Company Objectives(19:20) Determining Customers' Willingness to Pay(27:59) Packaging Strategies: Good, Better, Best, and Modular(31:34) Raising Prices Without Alienating Customers(40:38) Usage-Based Pricing and Its Challenges(54:20) Balancing Revenue and ProfitabilityThanks to James D. Wilton for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with James on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamesdwilton Learn more about turning payments into power via Monavate: https://www.monavate.com/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their
What role does a company's culture play in talent acquisition and retention? Also, what strategies can leaders use to build trust in a fast-growing company?Today’s guest is Jen Thornton, a talent strategy wizard with over 20 years of experience in leadership development and organizational growth. She’s not your typical HR professional; Jennifer has a knack for aligning business goals with the right talent, helping companies thrive in competitive environments.Join Scott and Jen as they explore: * The importance of aligning talent strategy with business objectives.* How to avoid the "talent cliff" in fast-growing companies.* Using fractional hires to fill high-level roles affordably.* The addiction to being right and its impact on leadership.* Strategies for building trust in teams during periods of change.* Effective communication methods to streamline business operations.* The evolution of company culture as businesses scale.* The significance of clear and concise communication in leadership.* Using a talent strategy to drive measurable business outcomes.Chapters for this episode: 02:30 - Diving into Talent Strategy 08:00 - Understanding the Talent Cliff 15:00 - Developing a Culture that Scales 22:00 - Smart Hiring: Fractional and Full-time Solutions 28:30 - Leadership Challenges and Overcoming Bias 34:00 - The Future of Communication in Business 40:00 - Evolving Company Culture During GrowthThanks to Jen Thornton for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Jen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferrthornton/ Learn more about Jen via 304 Coaching: https://304coaching.com/about/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and...
How can teaching business and economics to middle schoolers prepare them for real-world challenges?Today’s guest is John Rock Foster, the founder of Middle School MBA, where he’s revolutionizing the way kids learn about business, economics, and entrepreneurship. With a background in engineering and corporate strategy, he now dedicates his time to empowering young minds through fun, real-world business lessons.Join Scott and John as they explore: * The Middle School MBA program teaches students real-world skills, such as negotiation, through hands-on activities.* The importance of making complex topics like economics engaging and understandable for young students.* John’s curriculum helps students understand the world of commerce and transactions.* The role of teachers in customizing the curriculum to their students’ needs.* Why learning to handle failure is a crucial part of the program.* The program teaches life skills beyond business, including communication and relationship-building.* John shares how parents see a change in their relationships with their kids through the program.* The importance of introducing business education early, even as young as fourth grade.Chapters for this episode: 02:30 - John Foster’s Background and the Start of Middle School MBA07:45 - Why Teaching Business to Middle Schoolers is Important15:45 - Real-Life Skills Kids Gain from Business Education25:00 - Failure and Negotiation Lessons30:15 - The Role of Teachers in Delivering Business Curriculum38:00 - Impact of Business Education on FamiliesThanks to John Rock Foster for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Learn about Middle School MBA: https://www.middleschoolmba.com/ Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-rock-foster-12813341/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to
What are the key steps to transitioning from an operator to an owner in your business? How do you build a team that can run your business without you?Pete Mohr is a business owner turned coach who’s passionate about helping entrepreneurs break free from the daily grind. He’s the founder of Simplifying Entrepreneurship and has mastered the art of moving from operator to owner. Join Scott and Pete as they explore: * Transitioning from operator to owner and gaining business freedom.* Pete’s 5P Framework: Promise, Product, Process, People, Profit.* The importance of moving from “detail” to “dashboard” in your business.* Common roadblocks entrepreneurs face when trying to step back from operations.* The 5 D’s of unplanned business exits and how to prepare for them.* Why sharing financial numbers with your management team is crucial.* Building a team that can make decisions without you.* Real-life success stories from entrepreneurs who have implemented these frameworks.Chapters for this episode: 06:20 - Pete’s Journey as an Entrepreneur12:35 - From Operator to Owner: Why the Shift Matters21:45 - The 5 D’s of Unplanned Business Exits32:49 - Building a Strong Management Team46:28 - Pete’s 5P Framework for Business Success56:33 - The Importance of Communication, Process, and AccountabilityThanks to Pete Mohr for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Pete on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/petemohr/ Learn more about Pete and Simplifying Entrepreneurship:https://simplifyingentrepreneurship.com/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual masterminds and leadership retreats: https://MePlusUltra.com Me Plus Ultra is a place where visionary entrepreneurs come together, not just to network, but to forge lasting connections, inspire one another, and grow their businesses with confidence and purpose. With exclusive access to industry-leading knowledge, personalized growth strategies, and...
What are some practical ways entrepreneurs to authentically use Linkedin for business growth? Colin Hirdman is an expert on growth marketing who has started numerous companies, and now focuses on helping people succeed on LinkedIn. Join Scott and Colin as they explore: * Colin talks about starting a company despite having no business background, building software, and embracing a high failure rate. * The importance of LinkedIn for B2B businesses for building relationships and driving leads.* Using LinkedIn’s Sales Navigator for audience building and identifying prospects.* Being authentic in messages and providing value in messages.* Common mistakes on LinkedIn, such as being lazy in audience building and not providing enough value.* Leveraging LinkedIn live streams as an easy way to identify and engage with audiences.* Colin’s philosophy of prioritizing relationships over financial success and the benefits of having a peer group.* Colin’s recommendations for aspiring entrepreneurs to consider bringing in a partner they trust and to join a peer group for support.* Colins plans for Monkey Island Ventures, focusing on productized services and leveraging AI tools.* Adopting a growth-oriented mindset.Chapters for this episode: 6:04 Colin’s Entrepreneurial Journey 15:22 LinkedIn as a Business Tool 23:28 Building and Engaging with LinkedIn Audiences 24:57 Common Mistakes and Best Practices on LinkedIn 45:09 Balancing Business and Personal Relationships Thanks to Colin Hirdman for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Connect with Colin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colinhirdman/ Learn more about how Rainmaker can help you network on LinkedIn and drive more leads and revenue: https://www.rainmakergrows.com/ As mentioned in this episode, remember to reach out to Colin via LinkedIn or Rainmaker to get his one-pager about leveraging LinkedIn livestreams. BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path to ultra-success.ME PLUS ULTRA Transform your business and redefine your world with Me Plus Ultra virtual...
It’s crucial for entrepreneurs, business owners, and sales teams to transform complex content into captivating visual stories that resonate with our audience. But how do we do that? In this episode, Scott and his guest discuss actionable tips that you can integrate into your presentations so that they both inform and inspire. Emily Schneider is a visual storyteller who enhances business communications by designing expert presentations for clients. Join Scott and Emily as they explore: * Scott’s acknowledgement that sometimes he and his team have used sales decks that contained good content, but they didn’t tell a story, and they didn’t motivate or inspire clients or prospects. * Emily shares her early experience with design, starting with a poorly designed sweet 16 invitation.* The importance of collaboration and understanding the client's story to create effective PowerPoint presentations.* Simplifying complex information to make it easy to understand and more engaging.* Why "less is more" with effective presentations. * The role of branding in presentations and the importance of aligning visual elements with the brand.* Tips for creating presentations that are relevant and engaging for various audience types.* Common mistakes in PowerPoint presentations and how to avoid them.* Emily’s experience with using AI for content generation and brainstorming.* The limitations of AI in creating visually appealing presentations and the importance of human connection.Chapters for this episode: 4:58 Emily's Journey into PowerPoint Design 8:08 Impact of Well-Designed Presentations 17:28 Key Elements of Effective PowerPoint Presentations 24:35 Tailoring Presentations for Different Audiences 36:23 Overcoming Common Pitfalls in PowerPoint Presentations 41:11 AI in Visual Storytelling Thanks to Emily Schneider for being on Business, Bourbon & Cigars. Learn more about Emily’s visual storytelling services: https://www.iamemilyschneider.com/ Connect with Emily on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyschneider719/ BUSINESS, BOURBON & CIGARSBe sure to subscribe so you don’t miss any episodes. * Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3SN2fHn * Spotify: https://spoti.fi/49EwtTo * YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MePlusUltraNetwork/podcasts Business, Bourbon & Cigars is the preeminent resource for ambitious leaders who want a backstage pass to the top. Each episode, we sit down with ultra-successful executives and industry leaders who share their insider strategies for growth and success. And of course, we may even sip on some of the finest bourbon and light up our favorite cigars while we chat.Each week, we bring you in-depth interviews with high-level executives and industry leaders who have a proven track record and in-depth understanding of what it takes to grow a business. They’ll share their no-nonsense approach, the challenges they faced on their journey to the top, and the strategies that helped them overcome obstacles and forge their own path