B*U Live

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast | EP 33 | Harnessing the "WE": Transforming Leadership and Business Culture with Kyle McDowell

Original Publish Date: November 7, 2024

Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/gWE1trRb6gA

Welcome back to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast!

In this episode of Bootstrapped Unicorns, host Josh Pies of C47 Digital Studios speaks with Kyle McDowell—an author, speaker, and consultant—about the importance of culture in business. Kyle shares his "10 WEs," guiding principles that foster a collaborative and high-performing work environment and effective leadership. They discuss the challenges and rewards of implementing these principles, ensuring organizational success and personal growth. Tune in to learn actionable steps to transform your business culture and drive sustained success!

Discover more about Kyle at his website: https://kylemcdowellinc.com/

Find Kyle's bestselling book, "Begin With WE," wherever books are sold.

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest from the BU Podcast: https://youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

Join the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.BootstrappedUnicorns.com

https://www.C47Films.com

00:00 Introduction to Bootstrapped Unicorns

00:51 Setting the Stage: Studio Updates and Sponsorship

02:06 Meet Kyle McDowell: Author and Culture Expert

03:40 Kyle's Journey: From Corporate America to Author

09:28 The 10 "WEs": Principles of Leadership

27:07 Commitment to Team Values

27:33 Grounding Challenges in Data and Experience

28:10 Embracing and Overcoming Challenges

28:58 Obsessing Over Details

29:52 Implementing the "WE" Principles

31:07 Self-Reflection and Leadership

32:14 Consistency in Leadership

35:30 Personal Transformation

37:03 Influence of Professional Athletes

43:26 Trader Joe's Example of Leadership

48:40 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurshippodcast #bootstrappedunicorns #entrepreneurship101 #leadership #leadershipinspiration #beginwithwe

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast | EP 32 | Blueprint for Business Growth: Innovative Architecture, Entrepreneurship, and Empathy with Nathan Aleskovsky and Frank Davi, Jr 

Original publish date: July 2024

Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/3tsdvxxXI6Y

Thanks for tuning in to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast! Welcome!

Join us in this compelling episode of Bootstrapped Unicorns, where host Josh Pies interviews Nathan Aleskovsky and Frank Davi, Jr. from Aleskovsky Architecture and Interiors. Discover their holistic approach to architecture and design, which balances large-scale and small-scale projects through a full-service model that fosters client relationships and upfront investments. Learn about the dynamics of their partnership, the role of empathy in business, and strategies for navigating industry challenges. We also delve into the practicalities and future trends of home elevators, their tactics for sustainable growth, and the significance of maintaining a strong company culture. Packed with valuable insights, this episode is a must-watch for those interested in quality, trust, and transparency in architecture and entrepreneurship.

To connect with Aleskovsky Architecture & Interiors:

https://aleskovsky.com/

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest from the BU Podcast: https://youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

Join the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.C47Films.com

00:00 Introduction and Apology for Delay

00:15 Meet the Reluctant Entrepreneur

00:58 Welcome Back to Bootstrapped Unicorns

01:10 Exploring Architecture and Full-Service Design

06:59 The Importance of Pre-Construction Planning

18:39 Building Trust with Clients

21:23 The Visionary and the Integrator

29:58 Ethical Business Practices and Client Care

36:08 Honest Client Communication

36:57 Feasibility Studies and Budget Alignment

38:40 Personal Experience with Budget Overruns

40:34 Sponsorship Shoutout

41:49 Client Retention and Copyright Policies

44:04 Navigating Contractor Relationships

47:35 Seamless Design Build for Smaller Projects

01:05:16 Future Growth and Expansion Plans

01:10:53 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurshippodcast #bootstrappedunicorns #entrepreneurship101 #businesspartner #businessgrowth #AleskovskyArchitecture

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast | EP 31 | Entrepreneur's Edge: How Coach Pete's Playbook Elevates Small Businesses

Original publish date: June 2024

Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/C1JiyVNUNtU

Welcome to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast!

In this episode of Bootstrapped Unicorns, host Josh Pies talks with business and performance coach Pete Sackel about the profound impact of business coaching, particularly for small business owners and entrepreneurs. They discuss overcoming limiting beliefs, the pitfalls of traditional business plans, and the importance of having a coach to help with planning, accountability, and focusing on the right tasks. Coach Pete introduces his unique 21-point performance mapping system and shares insights on why every high-performing business owner can benefit from coaching. The discussion emphasizes the necessity of investing time and resources into business coaching to unlock higher levels of success and personal growth.

To connect with Coach Pete:

https://sackelpg.com

Subscribe on YouTube for the latest from the BU Podcast: https://youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast 

Join the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.C47Films.com 

00:00 Gaining Control by Delegating

00:37 Introduction and Sponsor Message

01:03 The Importance of Hiring a Virtual Professional

01:54 Welcoming Coach Pete

03:01 The Value of Business Coaching

04:43 Identifying Coachable Moments

11:05 The Role of Accountability in Coaching

15:53 Performance Mapping and Business Planning

24:59 The Growing Field of Business Coaching

27:27 Helping Entrepreneurs: The Mindset Challenge

29:03 Delegation and Trust in Business Growth

31:19 The Role of a Coach in Business Success

33:46 Viking Bags Sponsorship Shoutout

34:53 Entrepreneur vs. Business Owner: Key Differences

39:16 The Value of a Fractional Business Partner

48:19 Investing Time in Coaching for Business Growth

51:20 Final Thoughts and Call to Action

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #bootstrappedunicorns #CoachPeteSackel

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast | EP 30 | Barry Botwin's Altitude Adjustment: From Flights to Home Financing

Original publish date: June 2024

Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/SDIeml9K3pU

Welcome to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast!

In this episode of Bootstrapped Unicorns, host Josh Pies interviews his friend Barry Botwin, a former commercial airline pilot for Northwest Airlines who transitioned into a successful career in the mortgage industry.

They explore Barry's journey from flying aircraft like the Boeing 727 and Airbus A320 to helping families achieve homeownership. Barry discusses the similarities between aviation and the mortgage industry, highlighting the importance of structure, diligence, and dedication. The conversation covers the impact of the 2008 financial crisis, current mortgage market trends, and refinancing strategies. Viewers will also learn about the financial preparation required for home purchases, the significance of timing, and the benefits of having a reliable advisor. Personal anecdotes, challenges of entrepreneurship, and the value of family and presence in life are also shared. From cockpits to closing costs, Barry's story is one you won't want to miss.

To connect with Barry:

Call or text the office 7 days a week, 7am–7pm at 407.768.3242

Email: [email protected]

Website: https://crosscountrymortgage.com/Team-Botwin/Barry-Botwin/

For the latest from our podcast, subscribe on YouTube @BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

Join the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.C47Films.com

https://BootstrappedUnicorns.com 

00:00 Introduction and Episode Kickoff

00:43 Meet Barry: From Airline Pilot to Mortgage Guy

01:27 Sponsor Shout-outs

03:04 Barry's Journey in Aviation

05:21 The Life of a Commercial Pilot

18:35 Transitioning to Mortgages

24:50 Balancing Career and Family

34:11 Transitioning from Airlines to Mortgages

34:33 Facing the Challenges of a Commission-Only Industry

36:49 Navigating the Aftermath of 9/11

39:01 Learning the Mortgage Business

41:40 The Impact of the 2008 Financial Crisis

44:22 Back to Basics: Adapting to Market Changes

49:02 The Importance of Consistency in Real Estate

59:50 Current Market Trends and Predictions

01:06:03 Advice for Entrepreneurs and Homebuyers

01:09:48 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #bootstrappedunicorns #BarryBotwin #mortgage

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast | Episode 29 | A Life of Serial Entrepreneurship With Carey Sobel

Original publish date: June 2024

Link to video podcast episode: https://youtu.be/2VB0GgVVtZo

Welcome back to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast!

Join host Josh Pies as he explores the world of serial entrepreneurship with Carey Sobel, a dynamic guest -- who lives the life of a serial entrepreneur without claiming that title, by the way -- who has transitioned from DJ and marketer to business broker and CMO. Carey candidly shares his experiences across various business ventures, the emotional complexities of selling a business, and the lessons learned from both his successes and failures. This episode is brimming with insights and advice for entrepreneurs at any stage. Don't miss this inspiring conversation about risk-taking, empathy, and the essence of entrepreneurship.

To connect with Carey, find him on social media as Carey Sobel, and visit https://careysobel.com and https://bossgi.com/

Entrepreneurs, join the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group! https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://C47Films.com

https://BootstrappedUnicorns.com 

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #bootstrappedunicorns #serialentrepreneur

LINK TO YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/lnYoAp9VHdY

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: May 2024

RELEASE DATE: October 2024

EPISODE: 28

SHOW NOTES:

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast Episode 28 |  Designing An Ideal Life: Blueprints for a New Beginning with guest Jeanne Collins

This episode of Bootstrapped Unicorns features Jeanne Collins, a former executive who transformed her career and life by becoming an entrepreneur in the interior design industry after being let go from a corporate job. Jeanne discusses her journey, the challenges of starting a new career, her approach to wellness-led interior design, and her book, 'Two Feet In.' Additionally, she shares insights on starting a business, hiring virtual professionals, and the value of utilizing a business coach. Host Josh Pies and Jeanne also discuss the importance of books like 'Comeback Careers' and 'Profit First' in guiding entrepreneurs, and the pivotal role of networking and mentorship. Jeanne's story emphasizes finding inner peace, redefining success, and leveraging entrepreneurship to design a fulfilling life.

00:00 A Designer's Journey: From Presentation to Approval

00:34 Welcome to Bootstrapped Unicorns: A New Chapter with Jeanne Collins

01:30 Sponsored Segment: The Power of Virtual Professionals

02:48 Diving Deep into Interior Design with a Wellness Approach

06:13 The Creative Path: From Corporate America to Entrepreneurship

10:50 Embracing the Pivot: From Corporate VP to Interior Design

12:03 Navigating Career Transitions: Insights and Inspirations

20:55 Launching a New Venture: Strategies and First Steps

29:12 The Art of Personalizing Spaces

29:56 Launching a Career in Interior Design

30:14 The Game-Changing Impact of a Business Coach

30:51 Mastering the Business Side of Design

43:36 Expanding Horizons: From Design to Lifestyle Brand

46:34 The Entrepreneurial Journey and Community Building

53:30 Reflections and Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

To connect with Jeanne:

https://www.jermarinc.com/about

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.C47Films.com

Find the Bootstrapped Unicorns: Entrepreneurship & Marketing Facebook Group here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns/

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #entrepreneurship101 #newcareer #BootstrappedUnicorns #JerMarDesigns

LINK TO YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/PdAeEbiyybQ

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: April 2024

RELEASE DATE: October 2024

EPISODE: 27

SHOW NOTES:

Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast Episode 27 |  Crafting Your Exit: For Business Owners Looking Ahead with guest Laurie Barkman 

Ever wondered what it takes to master the art of mergers and acquisitions? No matter where you are in your entrepreneurial journey, this episode of the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast can provide you with valuable insight. Host Josh Pies welcomes Laurie Barkman, a seasoned expert in mergers and acquisitions (M&A), to unravel the mysteries of M&A and how it's a game-changer for entrepreneurs. Don't miss out on learning from the best in the business (of business sales)!

Laurie, The Business Transition Sherpa®, and author of The Business Transition Handbook, discusses the importance of preparing businesses for sale or acquisition. She highlights the common issues faced by businesses when selling, underscores the necessity of understanding enterprise value, and suggests strategies for enhancing business valuation. Laurie also touches on the emotional aspects of selling a business, the impact of financial performance on valuation, and she shares personal anecdotes to illustrate these points. Further, the conversation delves into ageless entrepreneurship, showcasing the potential for starting or scaling businesses later in life. Key takeaways include the role of ageless entrepreneurs in mentoring and the importance of having an exit plan regardless of the business size or the entrepreneur's age.

00:00 Understanding Main Street Businesses and Their Market

00:30 Welcome to Bootstrapped Unicorns: Diving into Entrepreneurship and M&A

00:49 Meet Laurie Barkman: A Master of Mergers, Acquisitions, and Entrepreneurial Growth

02:21 Lori's Journey: From Marketing Expert to M&A Advisor

03:27 The Emotional and Technical Sides of Business Transitions

05:43 The Importance of Planning for Business Transition

11:13 Tactical Advice for Entrepreneurs: Assessments and Value Improvement

19:21 Exploring Financial Performance and Business Valuation

24:23 Navigating the Emotional Landscape of Business Sales and Acquisitions

28:22 Exploring Exit Options and Buyer Types

29:37 The Power of Recurring Revenue and Business Transformation

31:14 Understanding Business Valuation and Buyer Perspectives

33:12 Demystifying Mergers and Acquisitions for Small Businesses

36:52 Real-World M&A Challenges and Success Stories

42:21 Empowering Ageless Entrepreneurs: A New Beginning at Any Age

To connect with Laurie:

https://thebusinesstransitionsherpa.com/

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.BootstrappedUnicorns.com

https://www.C47Films.com

The BU Entrepreneurship and Marketing Private (FREE) Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns/  

#BootstrappedUnicorns #businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #LaurieBarkman #TheBusinessTransitionHandbook #M&A

LINK TO YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/aeLqPKlmACQ

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: April 2024

RELEASE DATE: October 2024

EPISODE: 26

SHOW NOTES:

The Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast Episode 26 | The Cure Within: Finding Your Unique Remedy for Success and Fulfillment with guest Markus Kaulius

Join host Josh Pies as he invites Markus Kaulius, performance coach, private investor, successful serial entrepreneur, and author of "Play a Bigger Game," to share his insights on personal and professional growth. Marcus discusses the importance of discovering one's authentic self and taking action to fulfill one's unique purpose in the world. He emphasizes the power of self-discipline, intentional parenting, and how adopting a mindset of growth and purpose can lead to a fulfilling life. The conversation covers Marcus's journey from starting and selling businesses, to finding peace and joy in life's next chapters, and offers actionable tips and challenges to listeners seeking to elevate their lives and careers.

00:00 Unlocking Your Unique Cure for the World

00:49 Meet Markus Kaulius: Author, Investor, and CEO

06:26 The Power of Authenticity and Finding Your Purpose

22:43 Parenting with Purpose: Discipline, Communication, and Tech Limits

33:00 Budget-Friendly Family Adventures

33:31 A Memorable Trip to New York City

35:56 The Wolverine Name Story

43:38 Embracing Faith and Purpose

51:28 The Power of Action and Growth

01:00:37 Finding Your Book and Taking Action

For more from Markus:

https://www.instagram.com/markuskaulius/

https://playabiggergame.com/

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.BootstrappedUnicorns.com

https://www.C47Films.com 

The BU Entrepreneurship and Marketing Private (FREE) Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns/  

#BootstrappedUnicorns #businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #leadershipinspiration #MarkusKaulius

LINK TO YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/gQAjzYiil-A

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: April 2024

RELEASE DATE: September 2024

EPISODE: 25

SHOW NOTES:

Welcome to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast! In this episode, host Josh Pies sits down with Scott Rammage, the founder of HireVP. They dive deep into the need for a new type of staffing in the business world, focusing on virtual professionals over traditional virtual assistants. Scott details his journey from realizing the limitations of standard VAs to creating a successful business that places high-level remote staff in companies, significantly impacting operations and growth. They discuss the shift in branding from Media Machine to HireVP, the importance of storytelling in business, and how changing business models can lead to greater success. Scott also highlights the ethical and motivational aspects of hiring from places like the Philippines, addressing common misconceptions about overseas staffing. The conversation is peppered with insights into entrepreneurial growth, the power of delegation, and the importance of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

To connect with Scott: https://www.facebook.com/scott.rammage.7

00:00 Discovering a New Business Need

00:50 Welcome to Bootstrapped Unicorns with Josh Pies

01:25 Introducing Scott Rammage and HireVP

01:59 The Evolution of Business and Staffing Solutions

02:29 Personal Growth and Business Challenges

04:39 Embracing the 'Who, Not How' Philosophy

11:19 Expanding the Scope of Virtual Professionals

23:36 The Impact of Virtual Staffing on Global Workforce

29:02 Redefining Business Priorities and Work Ethic

30:03 The Millennial Workforce Dilemma

30:44 Evaluating Employee Loyalty and Mindset

31:15 The Importance of Stellar Service in Business

31:39 Leveraging Loyalty and Efficiency for Business Growth

32:27 Navigating the Challenges of Modern Employment

34:53 The Evolution of Hiring: From VAs to Virtual Professionals

39:02 The Journey of Brand Evolution and Business Growth

48:59 Embracing Change and the Future of Business

54:09 Concluding Thoughts on Business Transformation

Subscribe on YouTube to get our latest podcast episodes and more: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.BootstrappedUnicorns.com

https://www.C47Films.com

The BU Entrepreneurship and Marketing Private (FREE) Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns/  

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #BootstrappedUnicorns 

LINK TO YOUTUBE: https://youtu.be/N6HiV1tauGA

YOUTUBE CHANNEL: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

ORIGINAL RELEASE DATE: April 2024

RELEASE DATE: September 2024

EPISODE: 24

SHOW NOTES:

Welcome back to the Bootstrapped Unicorns Podcast! We are thrilled this time around to welcome James Keyes to the show. He is a bona fide celebrity in the business world, and we are so grateful to have him share his time with us!

If you didn't already know, James Keyes is the former CEO of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven, as well as a pilot, and author of "Education Is Freedom." In this discussion, he shares his insights on business, change as an opportunity, and the power of education with host Josh Pies.

The conversation starts with the evolution of Blockbuster and 7-Eleven under Keyes' leadership, emphasizing convenience and the strategic use of data. He introduces the concept that "change equals opportunity (CEO)" and argues for the necessity of continuous learning and adapting in business. Additionally, Keyes talks about his book "Education Is Freedom," advocating for lifelong learning and the importance of education in achieving personal freedom and sustaining democracy. He debunks myths around the affordability of college education and stresses the importance of soft skills alongside formal education. The conversation also touches on the significance of internships for young people, the role of big data in modern businesses, and how businesses have a responsibility to contribute to social good.

Join us for this dynamic conversation on the intersection of change, opportunity, and education in both business and in life!

For more from James Keyes, visit: https://www.jameswkeyes.com/

00:00 The Evolution of Blockbuster: Beyond DVD Rentals

00:30 Celebrity Guest: The Man Behind Blockbuster and 7-Eleven

01:50 Redefining CEO: Change Equals Opportunity

05:05 Leveraging Data for Business Success: The 7-Eleven Transformation

10:18 Big Data in Action: The 7-Eleven Coffee Cup Election Poll

13:48 Corporate Responsibility and Social Good

15:17 The Power of Education and Internships

17:35 Navigating the Education vs. Experience Debate

22:37 The Power of Broad Knowledge in the Age of AI

23:42 The Ongoing Debate: Is College Necessary?

25:58 The Importance of Liberal Arts and the Challenge of Rising Education Costs

28:02 Debunking the Myth of Prohibitive College Costs

32:21 The Universal Value of Lifelong Learning

36:33 Soft Skills: The Unspoken Gap in Today's Workforce

39:50 The Blockbuster Story: Lessons in Business and Convenience

42:07 Looking Ahead: The Freedom of Knowledge and the Joy of Flying

Subscribe on YouTube to get our latest podcast episodes and more: https://www.youtube.com/@BootstrappedUnicornsPodcast

For more about our podcast, or to become a guest, visit:

https://www.BootstrappedUnicorns.com

https://www.C47Films.com

The BU Entrepreneurship and Marketing Private (FREE) Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/bootstrappedunicorns/  

#businesspodcast #entrepreneurmindset #entrepreneurship101 #BootstrappedUnicorns