Becoming Preferred

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 27

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred podcast, where we bring you the insights and strategies to help you elevate your business and become preferred. Today, we have a true expert of sales and entrepreneurship joining us.

Glenn Poulos is here to share his unparalleled wisdom on sales strategy, consumer behavior, and how to build truly successful companies. Get ready to take notes, because Glenn is about to drop some serious insights. Join me for my conversation with Glenn Poulos.

Guest Bio:

Glenn Poulos is the co-founder, Vice President, and General Manager of Gap Wireless Inc., a leading product and service distributor for the mobile broadband and wireless markets. With over three decades of experience in sales, he has spent thousands of hours in the field or on the phone with customers and working with salespeople to help create several very successful companies.

After entering the sales field in 1985 as a Technical Sales Rep, Glenn founded his first company, mmWave Technologies Inc. in 1991 and simultaneously served as President of Anritsu Electronics Ltd. for 9 years. Using his extensive knowledge and experience in the industry, he lectures groups on sales strategy, consumerism, and what motivates people at a raw emotional level.

Glenn lives near Toronto in Ontario, Canada, where he enjoys hiking, skiing, and playing pickleball.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://glennpoulos.com/
• Product Link: Never Sit in the Lobby
• Product Link: Profit Powerhouse

 Insight Gold Timestamps:

01:39 You wrote a great book called Never Sit in the Lobby

02:15 I got thrown out of the Canadian government for working too hard

04:20 There's three things that you need in order to become an entrepreneur

06:40 The reason you're hitting the wall and bouncing off is because you're scared

09:35 I've learned far more from my failures than I ever have my successes

12:08 Even if you do fail, it's not a permanent situation

16:13 I'm not a PhD in balance

18:06 I call it the $12 million problem

19:18 Until you can give it up and you can put the right person in the right seat, you can't scale the business

21:48 My mom had a saying, which was, 'Don't don't focus on what you lose. Focus on what you get to keep'

24:00 For me it's always about leverage

25:38 The area that you want to focus on is like process first, and then people second

29:19 Find the right person to head up that process and scale it

32:25 I invariably want to fall asleep reading legal documents

34:07 In the hands of the best person, you'll still get the better result

37:06 The one thing that I think will never change

38:25 People buy from people

40:59 W hen there's something in it for you, your ability to absorb information, goes up significantly

43:03 A lot of failing salespeople, they make the mistake...

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/glenn-poulos-45bab86/ 

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/glenn.poulos 

Twitter (X): https://x.com/GlennPoulos

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/glenn.poulos/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 26

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred podcast. The show that's dedicated to helping you become the preferred choice in your industry, and in your life. Today, we have a truly remarkable guest who embodies the spirit of a long term vision, profound transformation, and impactful leadership.

Our guest, David J. Greer, is a 40-year veteran of the entrepreneurial world. He joined a young software startup at just 22, and for two decades he helped build it into a global powerhouse. After a powerful exit, David embarked on a two year sabbatical, sailing 5000 miles in the Mediterranean with his family. A journey that reshaped his perspective on success and life. David is a highly sought after entrepreneurial coach and facilitator. He's a true expert on cultivating high performing cultures, empowering people and crafting strategic plans that lead to high growth businesses. Join me for my conversation with David Greer.

Guest Bio:

David J. Greer is a 40+ year entrepreneur. At 22, he joined a young software startup, stayed 20 years, becoming co-owner, while building the company into a global powerhouse. After selling out of that business, he and his wife took a break, commissioning a sailboat in the South of France and home schooling their three children for two years while sailing 5,000 miles in the Mediterranean.

Since then, David has been an angel investor, senior executive helping entrepreneurial friends of his, and since 2015 he has been an entrepreneurial coach and facilitator. David is an expert on culture, people, and strategic planning to create high performing and high growth businesses.

David has 15 years of continuous sobriety, which is why he focuses on helping entrepreneurs who struggle with alcoholism and/or addiction.

Resource Links:

• Website:  https://coachdjgreer.com/
• Product Link: https://coachdjgreer.com/book/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

03:03 That's the essence of marketing and selling

04:22 While sailing more than 5,000 miles, 10,000 kilometers in the Mediterranean

06:34 I'm all in or all out

07:26 I'm an alcoholic, and I'd been a daily drinker for at least 20 years

11:13 I wrote my book, Wind In Your Sails: Vital Strategies that Accelerate your Entrepreneurial Growth

14:39 We were incredibly customer focused

16:45 We found out there were 5 really common things that people had problems with

23:16 Go out 3 to 5 years and pick a future date. What is your business going to look like on that date?

24:56 People, strategy, execution, and cash

28:06 I think those of us who really get to a certain level of performance realize it's the calendar or nothing

29:19 Work always expands to the time we allow for it

29:56 It took you longer to procrastinate

30:43 Lets more employees say no to those things that don't matter

33:37 So go 10X where you can go 10X

35:41 At the end of the day, the customer experience is about what do they feel?

35:49 Branding is what do people feel about you, and what do they say about you, when you are not in the room?

37:24 Strategic planning is a hundred page binder that sits on a shelf and no one ever looks at it

40:33 I'm really strong on weekly meetings with my team

41:38 You don't have to be so serious

41:55 Everything in life and in business is an experiment

43:49 I want you to know there is always light at the end of the tunnel

45:14 The website is CoachDJGreer

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidgreer/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/djgreer

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachdjgreer/

Blog: https://coachdjgreer.com/blog/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 25

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred podcast, where we bring you the insights you need to stand out from the competition and thrive. Today, we have an incredible guest who has not only witnessed but actively shaped the evolution of marketing over the last few decades. From the very early days of the internet our guest has been at the forefront, adapting and innovating.

He's Gee Ranasinha, the CEO of KEXINO, an award-winning marketing agency that has been the secret weapon for over 400 startups and small businesses across 20 countries. Gee and his team help these businesses achieve the holy grail of success: growing awareness, reputation, trust and sales.

Prepare to extract some serious wisdom from a seasoned pro who understands exactly what it takes to become preferred in today's complex market. Join me for my conversation with Gee Ranasinha. 

Guest Bio:

Gee has been in marketing since the days of dial-up internet and AOL CDs. Today, he’s the CEO of KEXINO, an award-winning marketing agency. Over the past 16 years KEXINO has helped over 400 startups and small businesses in around 20 countries grow awareness, reputation, trust – and sales.

A Fellow of the Chartered Institute Of Marketing, Gee is also Visiting Professor at two business schools, teaching Marketing and Behavioral Economics to final-year MBA students.

Outside of work Gee loves to cook, listens to music on a ridiculously expensive hi-fi, and plays jazz piano very badly.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://kexino.com/
• Product Link: https://kexino.com/services/marketing/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

05:50 A differentiator at the beginning was that we would lead with a business problem

08:43 Nothing every dies, it just gets fragmented

11:04 The vast majority of our total addressable market is not ready to buy at that exact specific time

13:47 The marketers of their day understood how we as buyers considered and remembered brands at the point of purchase

15:00 Thinking Fast and Slow

18:49 One of the biggest obstacles we face is ignorance of what marketing is

21:11 Nobody spent any time on the single biggest factor of any website that drives conversion

25:08 The reason it sounds too good to be true is because it is too good to be true

29:18 A thing called the 'sunk cost fallacy'

31:54 Price isn't necessarily the deciding factor, as how buyers perceive value

34:20 I would say the lion's share of the reason why a B2B sale happens is not because you are selling the best product...

37:34 The biggest competition is sometimes is not doing anything

38:51 Four words: Talk to your customers!

39:08 Our customers are our biggest advocates

40:30 A fantastic question to ask an existing customer...

42:01 The best way people can find you if they wanna reach out to you is kexino.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ranasinha/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/kexino

Threads: https://www.threads.com/@wearekexino

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/Kexino

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearekexino

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 24

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred podcast. In today's dynamic business landscape, simply doing business isn't enough to stand out. To truly thrive, to become the preferred choice, you need a strategy that elevates your brand, optimizes your operations, and magnetizes your ideal clients. But how do you make that leap from overwhelmed entrepreneur to empowered CEO? How do you build a business that truly "rules" your market?

Today, we have an absolute master of business strategy joining us.Someone who has guided countless entrepreneurs and leaders to not just survive, but to profoundly succeed. She's the brilliant mind behind Your Biz Rules. A speaker, author, and an undeniable force in helping you transform your vision into a profitable, scalable reality. Get ready to unlock the secrets to become truly unstoppable. We're thrilled to welcome the incredible Leslie Hassler!

Guest Bio:

Leslie Hassler is the powerhouse behind Your Biz Rules, a consultancy firm transforming small businesses into freedom-generating machines. Leveraging 17 years of entrepreneurial experience and a strong background in marketing, finance, and leadership, Leslie guides businesses toward predictable profits and sustainable growth. Your Biz Rules offers comprehensive business audits, the Profitable Growth Incubator program, private consulting, and Fractional CFO services. The firm is celebrated for igniting transformative profitable growth, reshaping businesses to fulfill the owner’s vision, and enabling clients to break through financial barriers.

Leslie’s holistic approach prioritizes profitability and a balanced quality of life for business owners. She is the author of First This, Then That and the upcoming Scaling Rich™, Recognized on stages across the U.S., including NAWBO and WBENC, Leslie is also a Past President of NAWBO DFW and an alumna of the Goldman Sachs 10K Small Business program. A mother of two and avid traveler, Leslie brings a well-rounded perspective to her work. Her mission is to ignite the potential within business owners, empowering them to conquer challenges, unlock unprecedented growth, and build a life of abundance and balance.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://www.yourbizrules.com/
• Product Link: https://www.yourbizrules.com/fractional-cfo-services/
• Resource: https://www.yourbizrules.com/becoming-preferred-podcast/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

01:22 You have the domain yourbizrules.com

04:28 Your business does need rules

06:27 In order to scale, you are going to need some core element of scalability

06:55 Systems, processes, technology, and people are core

07:58 You do speak about having a crystal clear ideal client definition

09:50 This falls under the adage of 'a confused mind does not buy'

10:18 We focus on psychographics, not demographics

11:20 Clarity is what helps distinguish you from the next person

12:30 At the end of the day, people are trying to buy solutions, they're not trying to buy work

15:35 I find that 99.99% of the people out there do not feel like their numbers people

18:53 Nobody needs more work, we need more ease

20:01 What you'll see is, we get you, we've got you, we've gone through something similar

22:37 Basically, you are making a client promise

26:19 E very interaction should reinforce that brand's promise and personality

26:24 Inconsistency erodes magnetism

27:34 One of our values is generosity

31:50 How many of you send out thank you notes?

34:59 If you haven't done the work, the preparation to get there...

35:34 If I were to come in and double, triple, or quadruple your business today, what would break tomorrow?

38:55 How do you move that relationship along?

40:10 I n order to grow, you've got to let go

40:58 You have to have the clarity in order to be able to focus

43:51 I call it my CEO days

46:00 I think we need to embrace the trend to become less time bound

46:36 I learned a long time ago, I'm actually not in control

47:38 If you're playing by last year's rules, you'll get last year's results

48:43 We have a special page just set aside for your audience, itt's going to be at yourbizrules.com/preferred

49:45 The website's yourbizrules.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lesliehassler/

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/YourBizRules

Twitter (X): https://x.com/YourBizRules

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@LeslieHassler

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leslie.hassler/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 23

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to Becoming Preferred, the podcast dedicated to empowering business professionals and entrepreneurs to achieve their highest potential. Have you ever felt that true leadership extends beyond just strategies and spreadsheets? That there's a deeper, more profound dimension to unlocking peak performance and genuine impact? 

Today, our guest has dedicated decades to exploring exactly that. Dr. Ron Stotts is a three-time bestselling author, with a PhD in Psychology. Ron isn't just an academic; he's a transformational guide who has delved into ancient wisdom, cutting-edge neuroscience, and the very essence of human potential. He's supported thousands in navigating their toughest challenges and stepping into their greatness. Prepare to shift your perspective on what it truly means to lead, live, and become preferred. Join me now for my conversation with Ron Stotts.

Guest Bio:

Ron is a three times bestselling author with a PhD in psychology and a Dr. of Chiropractic. He’s explored the depths of ancient wisdom and the latest in psychological, neurological studies, and leadership as he guides entrepreneurs and executives into the highest levels of conscious leadership.

Ron spent the last five decades exploring the deepest caves and soaring heights of both personal and spiritual journeys. He is intimate with all aspects of the territory. As a transformational guide, he has supported thousands of others on their journey as they’ve moved through their most difficult challenges and developed their greatest potential.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://ronstotts.com/
• Product Link: https://ronstotts.com/leadership-books/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

03:10 Recognizing that the answers were within myself

03:56 It was the worst best year of my life

07:47 T he biggest problem I see in leadership

09:25 One of my mentors, Buckminster Fuller

12:44 Meditation is always about a single pointed focus

14:10 That's the art of life, is to use breathing as your indicator

15:18 All I have to do is breathe and be curious, and that allows me to be present and conscious

20:12 My ego's only job is to make sure that I'm breathing, being curious and present

22:00 When you breathe, you feel, and so I don't want to feel, so I'm going to quit breathing

24:36 Are you willing to be yourself? And most people, hell no!

25:42 Their leadership is about really bringing out the best in others

25:57 Your level of consciousness determines how you see, experience, and react to everything in your life

28:18 Are there typically catalysts with the people you work with?

28:29 They have to be afraid enough, or excited enough

31:05 You have to have meaning in your life as a leader

33:20 Celebrate where you are

35:20 The lobster story is...

36:59 Breathe, just breathe

37:59 I call it the Stop Process

38:08 If you don't stop and heal your past...

38:54 Start with your biggest challenge

39:34 Quiet your mind enough so you can access big mind thinking

40:22 I live my life breathing and being curious and present

42:18 The website is ronstotts.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-ron-stotts-14143236/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DrRonStotts 

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCNV6D59C3InwlZmpAOVls_g

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ronstottsofficial

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 22

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred Podcast! Today, we have a true titan in the world of digital marketing and growth—a master architect of scale renowned for transforming data into undeniable results. If you're a business professional or entrepreneur seeking your next breakthrough, looking to optimize customer acquisition, or aiming to understand the mechanics of sustainable scaling, you're in for a treat.

Our guest is the visionary founder of Round Barn Labs, a growth marketing agency that has been instrumental in scaling some truly impressive businesses. He is also the brilliant mind behind the "Always Be Testing" podcast and the insightful "Flywheel" blog on Beehiiv. He lives and breathes experimentation, data-driven decisions, and building lasting momentum. Join me now for my conversation with Tye DeGrange.

Guest Bio:

Tye DeGrange is the Founder and CEO of Round Barn Labs, a leading growth marketing agency specializing in affiliate and influencer marketing for top tech brands, including Grammarly, Nextdoor, Meta Quest, and Atlassian. With 20 years of experience in performance marketing, Tye has driven growth for startups and Fortune 500 companies across e-commerce, B2B SaaS, and Consumer Tech. A graduate of UC Santa Barbara with a degree in History, Tye began his career at Sequoia-backed AdBrite, one of the first ad networks. Under his leadership, Round Barn Labs has earned accolades such as Boutique Agency of the Year and recognition as a Top 30 Global Affiliate Marketing Agency. 

Based in Austin, TX, Tye is passionate about building growth-focused teams and identifying innovative revenue opportunities. Outside of work, he enjoys playing tennis, exploring Austin with his wife Blaine, and spending time with their two young children, Hayward and Gray.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://www.roundbarnlabs.com/
• Product Link: https://www.roundbarnlabs.com/services-2/affiliate-marketing-agency

Insight Gold Timestamps:

01:28 Your motto line, Elevate Trust and Embrace Influence

03:46 What's the evolution that you've seen and where do you see it moving to?

07:00 Are you monetizing effectively in a competitive way?

07:43 Is this juice worth the squeeze for you, all in, not just media costs

11:09 Your podcast is called Always Be Testing

14:08 First and foremost, you want to have kind of a solid tracking platform

14:18 Trust is really essential to everything we do

17:37 If it was taken away, would you have gotten that customer anyway?

18:06 Priced right is half sold

22:05 On paid search, is that still relevant

24:20 I also read Jim Collins' book, Good To Great

29:23 You might have a bigger impact than you realize

32:30 Affiliate tends to be a lot of cat herding, a lot of moving parts

34:28 You talk about embracing a culture of relentless experimentation and learning

36:10 The website is roundbarnlabs.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn Business: https://www.linkedin.com/company/round-barn-labs/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tyedegrange/

Twitter (X): https://x.com/RoundBarnLabs

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@AlwaysBeTestingPodcast

Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3bXEq0WGtkLiQn7K1PUVCh

Tye Degrange's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/always-be-testing/id1700913215

Blog: https://the-flywheel.beehiiv.com/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 21

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred podcast, where we look into the strategies and mindsets that drive success for business professionals and entrepreneurs. Today, we have an extraordinary guest who embodies justice, advocacy, empathy, and results: Tad Nelson.

Tad is a legal luminary with over 33 years of experience in criminal and family law. What sets Tad apart is his unique blend of sharp legal acumen and forensic science expertise, allowing him to transform daunting legal crises into pathways of empowerment. He’s not just about conventional representation; he’s about genuine advocacy with precision and profound understanding of the human experience. 

In this episode, we're going to extract invaluable lessons from his astounding 400 trials – a treasure trove of wisdom applicable far beyond the courtroom, to every high-stakes decision and challenge you face in your business and entrepreneurial journey. Get ready for some powerful insights! 

Guest Bio:

Step into the world of Tad Nelson, a renowned legal mind with a flair for turning daunting legal crises into pathways of empowerment and transformation.

Distinguished by his unique blend of legal acumen and forensic science, Tad's approach goes beyond conventional representation—it's about genuine advocacy with empathy and precision.

Whether unraveling complex divorce cases or high-stakes criminal defenses, Tad believes in empowering his clients through compassion, relentless dedication, and a profound understanding of the human experience. 

Discover Tad Nelson's unique perspective on law, life, and the quest for justice in a way that promises to captivate and engage every listener.

Resource Links:

• Website: https://tadlaw.com/
• Free Consultation: https://tadlaw.com/contact/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

02:40 I've always wanted to be a lawyer

03:28 The three most important things of being lawyer

04:06 You know, the biggest complaint with lawyers in the world, is communication

05:30 The reality of today's world, you can't make everybody happy

07:02 First thing, never make any assumptions

08:08 It takes 50% of the time to do 90% of the work

10:53 So many people don't realize that you can give too much information

13:53 People are good, by and large people are

16:36 The number one place that you find consensus

22:06 Whatever's going on in your business, can't affect your product

23:57 You need to establish boundaries

24:46 I don't live to work, I work to live

28:30 From our initial conversation, we lay out a path that we're gonna follow

28:40 The way you build up trust is, you do what you say you're going to do

29:36 Once they start trusting me for doing what I'm gonna do, then they'll start trusting my opinion

31:43 If there's something that you think that needs to be addressed, get it addressed

32:30 We use Otter AI, every conversation I have is recorded, summarized, and put in their digital file

35:59 The domain is tadlaw.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tad-nelson-437b63b/

Blog: https://tadlaw.com/blog/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 20

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred Podcast. In this episode, we have a true financial powerhouse in the studio, ready to illuminate the often-murky waters of cash flow and profitability 

Stephanie is not just a CFO; she's a business owner herself, giving her a unique, boots-on-the-ground perspective on the challenges you face every day. Through her company, New Light Financial Solutions, Stephanie has a knack for seeing right through the surface-level issues and identifying the core reasons why your business might be struggling with profitability and cash flow.

Stephanie doesn't just diagnose the problem; she provides a clear path to fixing it. If you've ever felt like you're working harder but not seeing the financial results you deserve, get ready to unlock the secrets to a healthier, more profitable business. Join me for my conversation with Stephanie Smith.

Guest Bio:

Stephanie Smith is a CFO and a business owner. She uses her financial background to help business owners take the one clear path to generating more cash in their business. Being in the financial world, she can look at a business and spot the underlying reasons why it is not profitable and has poor cash flow. And... more importantly, she knows how to fix it.

Resource Links:

• Website: www.newlightfs.com
• Product Link: https://newlightfs.com/resources/

Insight Gold Timestamps:

02:28 My favorite subject was calculus

02:44 If you feel like you need a "just in case thing", then maybe that's not the right path

06:01 We don't always take the time to evaluate how the cash is supposed to be moving through our business

07:30 Where to begin is really following the money

09:27 We actually do Profit First in our business for ourselves

10:48 Why a business can be profitable but still struggle with cash flow

13:26 It's cheaper to get a customer who already knows, trusts and has bought from you, to buy from you again

16:32 H ow much is it actually costing you to sell something?

20:47 I've heard people say, you know, set a a financial date with yourself, with your business

22:26 What every CFO does should be similar regardless of the size

24:33 It's a good idea to start talking with a financial planner about other things that you can do with the business' money

25:56 You should definitely not base all your decisions off of your bank account, or based on the profit number that you have on your financial statements

27:56 I have a podcast that I run called Getting to the Bottom Line

31:53 If they want to reach you, it's newlightfs.com

32:03 We also offer a free Cash Flow Strategy

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephanieporcellosmith/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/stephanieporcellosmith/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@newlightfs

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/newlightfs/

Stephanie's Podcast Link: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL5WTE9D35Qv2n46vqCoM7nW3EHd-ZuD5Z

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 19

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred Podcast. In this episode, we have not one, but two incredible minds joining us. A dynamic duo who have dedicated their careers to empowering business professionals and entrepreneurs like you to achieve remarkable success through the world of franchising 

Jack and Jill Johnson are the powerhouse co-founders of The Franchise Insiders! Together, they bring a wealth of experience and a proven track record in guiding individuals to build generational wealth and gain genuine professional freedom through strategic franchise ownership.

So, if you have ever dreamed of owning your own business, or want to explore the potential of franchise ownership and learn how to build wealth and freedom on your own terms, join me for my conversation with Jack & Jill Johnson.

Guest Bio:

Jack Johnson, Founder of The Franchise Insiders, has empowered over 600 executives to achieve franchise success, build generational wealth, and gain professional freedom. With a proven track record in franchising, Jack played a key role in building and selling Home Care Assistance for $130M, where he helped grow the brand into a global powerhouse with 200+ high-earning franchisees. As the owner of Pink's Window Services, he brings both franchisor and franchisee perspectives to his mentorship. His earlier leadership roles at MGM Resorts International, Brand Ltd., and ConnectedBrands have shaped his expertise in business development, marketing, and strategic growth. Alongside his wife, Jill, Jack provides personalized, data-driven franchise consulting backed by years of industry success and deep professional relationships. 

Jill Johnson, Co-Founder of The Franchise Insiders, has guided hundreds of entrepreneurs to achieve business ownership success through personalized, data-driven franchise consulting. With a strategic background in marketing, business development, and account management, Jill’s career spans leadership roles at top companies including IBM, Zeta Global, Power Efficiency Corporation, TakeLessons.com, and Wynn Las Vegas. At The Franchise Insiders, she and her husband, Jack, have built a trusted system to help clients find the perfect franchise match, leveraging extensive industry insights and personalized mentorship. Jill’s diverse experience, including franchise ownership and executive coaching, empowers her clients to make confident, informed investment decisions for long-term success.

Jack & Jill Johnson - Co-Founders of The Franchise Insiders - Together, Jack and Jill provide data-driven, personalized franchise consulting, leveraging deep industry connections to help clients make informed, confident investment decisions. This powerful duo is eager to speak about creating Generational Wealth Creation, having real freedom, and how to live life on your own terms through business ownership.

 Resource Links:

• Website: https://www.thefranchiseinsiders.com/
• Product Link: https://www.thefranchiseinsiders.com/howwehelpyou

Insight Gold Timestamps:

04:01 Franchise ownership is not passive, it is not a passive asset

06:11 The right franchisor can teach you so much about business ownership

07:24 Not everyone's cut out to be a business owner, and so franchising helps you be the business owner that you want to be

09:01 When a couple wants to start to get into a franchise

10:55 The All In podcast had the CEO of of Google on last week

13:12 You need to make sure you're well funded

17:08 The classic franchise investment mistake is this...

18:21 If you open up a franchise disclosure document and there is no item 19, close the franchise disclosure document

21:05 There's a great book, by the way, called The Wealthy Franchisee by Scott Greenberg

22:16 And so we work with some established brands that we love

23:48 What is the biggest challenge for employers? Employees!

26:08 A lot of people think that franchise fees are a profit center for the franchisor, and they're not

26:30 One of the most important questions you can ask is: How robust is your support team?

27:42 It's fun to work, when it's your business

28:14 Working on the business, not in it, is crucial

30:17 Is this person, someone that can play well with others and operate well within this sort of structured framework?

31:27 Franchise ownership is for people that like structure and support

32:17 One of the beauties of franchise ownership is if you try it and it's not for you, sell it

34:45 When you're looking at a business, ask yourself this question, Does somebody need this business?

36:40 The website's thefranchiseinsiders.com

Connect Socially:

Business LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefranchiseinsiders/

Jack's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thefranchiseinsiders/

Jill's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jillstrasserjohnson/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thefranchiseinsiders

Twitter: https://x.com/JackInsiders

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCi67lio6ORFwnN0DcZL_DmQ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thefranchiseinsiders/?hl=en

Jack & Jill's Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-franchise-insiders-inside-scoop-podcast/id1555258626

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/

SEASON: 5 EPISODE: 18

Episode Overview:

Welcome back to the Becoming Preferred Podcast. In this episode, I will be speaking with the incredible Brandi Heather. Brandi is an award-winning former college professor who has transformed into a leading voice on the science of play at work. With over two decades of experience across business, education, and healthcare, she now travels the globe, showing professionals how play can unlock mental wellness, genuine connection, and build resilience.

Brandi doesn't just talk the talk; she truly activates play in her engaging keynotes and training sessions, all grounded in fascinating neuroscience and physiology. So, get ready for some insights that might just change the way you work and live! Join me for my conversation with Brandi Heather. 

Guest Bio:

Brandi Heather is an award-winning former college professor, turned play scientist and thought leader on the science of play at work. With over 25 years of experience in business, education, and healthcare and making people smile, she speaks globally on how play fuels mental wellness, authentic connection, and resilience. But Brandi doesn’t just talk about play—she activates it. Her keynotes and training experiences, grounded in neuroscience and physiology, give professionals the tools to reset their stress response, restore their energy, and rethink how they lead, serve, and shine.

Brandi's talks are immersive, unforgettable experiences where audiences build personalized and collective solutions for burnout prevention, joy retention and innovation in real time. Side effects have included: spontaneous creativity, uncontrollable laughter, contagious enthusiasm, and unexpected conversations with fascinating humans. It’s the most fun you can have in a day of work. Come out and play.

 Resource Links:

• Website: https://www.brandiheather.com
• Product Link: https://www.brandiheather.com/product-page/minicourse-what-is-play

Insight Gold Timestamps:

04:37 W hen students were in play, they were learning more

05:50 T hey would get up at 7:00 AM with hangovers to come to my class

06:34 T he people who are really good at what they do, have an element of play to it

10:05 W hat kinds of things constitute play?

12:08 One of the highest sales activities you can possibly do if you're in professional selling, is to do something playful with a client

14:12 Simply ask, When you're not working 12 hours a day, what do you do for fun?

17:09 When was the last time you did something so good that you lost track of time?

17:38 So those three things for me is....

19:54 How does play facilitate deeper and more meaningful connections among colleagues and within our teams?

20:18 That's what play opens up, it opens up a curiosity

21:57 Play is directly connected to how we cope and how we take care of our mental health

25:12 How does play contribute to fostering creativity and innovative thinking within individuals and organizations?

27:44 Figure out what your play is first

28:05 What's one thing at work you could do all day?

30:42 There's 3 things that we can really do

32:38 You don't have to schedule it, you have to start by noticing it

35:05 You offer a mini course, which I thought was interesting, called What Is Play

36:06 People ask all the time, how do you play in such a serious world?

37:00 So my hope for the future of play and for understanding our playful intelligence is...

37:44 It's brandiheather.com

Connect Socially:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brandiheather/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ReturnToPlayToday/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/brandi__heather/

Email: [email protected]

Sponsors: 

Rainmaker LeadGen Platform Demo: https://bookme.michaelvickers.com/lite/rainmaker-leadgen-platform-demo

Rainmaker Digital Solutions: https://www.rainmakerdigitalsolutions.com/

Resources:  https://becomingpreferred-podcast.com/resources/