What if the secret to building a thriving business isn’t about being everywhere, but about showing up where it matters most?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Michelle Thames—brand strategist, podcast host, and digital ecosystem architect—to uncover the real blueprint for standing out, attracting clients, and turning your passions into profit.

Michelle’s journey is a masterclass in reinvention and resilience. She reveals why visibility is more than just posting online, how to craft a customer journey that converts, and the mindset shifts every entrepreneur needs to succeed. Whether you’re just starting or ready to scale, this conversation will challenge what you think you know about branding, marketing, and making your mark.

What You'll Learn:

• Visibility starts with knowing your audience—down to their deepest motivations.

• Focus on platforms where your ideal clients actually spend time, not everywhere at once.

• Build a customer journey: nurture leads, create trust, and guide them to conversion.

• Monetize your expertise through digital products, audio courses, coaching, and more.

• Messaging and follow-up are the secret weapons for turning followers into paying clients.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Michelle’s Reinvention: Why It’s Never Too Late to Start Over

• 00:39 – The Visibility Blueprint: Where to Show Up and Why

• 02:44 – The Biggest Mistake Entrepreneurs Make (and How to Fix It)

• 06:55 – Monetizing Multiple Passions: From Digital Products to Paid Speaking

• 10:12 – The #1 Fix for Struggling to Convert Your Audience

• 12:59 – Three Practical Steps to Boost Visibility and Revenue Today

• 14:48 – Michelle’s Dream Business Beyond Marketing (and Her Love for Matcha)

Guest Links:

• Website: https://thingsmediasolutions.com

• Website: https://michellethames.com (coming soon)

• Instagram: https://instagram.com/michelleLthames

• LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/michellethames

• Facebook: https://facebook.com/michellethames

• YouTube: https://youtube.com/@michellethames

This episode is your invitation to rethink visibility, embrace your expertise, and start building a brand that truly stands out.

What if losing everything was the spark you needed to build your dream life?

In this episode, Michelle Thames reveals how being fired from her healthcare job became the catalyst for a radical reinvention. Discover how she transformed a side hustle into a thriving business, built a digital marketing agency with her husband, and became a sought-after speaker and podcast host.

Michelle’s story is a masterclass in betting on yourself, embracing your passions, and turning setbacks into your greatest advantage.

What You'll Learn:

• Why getting fired can be the best thing that ever happened to you

• The power of starting small and building one client at a time

• How to balance multiple passions without losing focus

• The mindset shift every woman over 40 needs to thrive in business

• Why you don’t need to be everywhere to build visibility

Timestamps:

• 00:02 — Fired & Fearless: Michelle’s turning point

• 02:10 — From Side Hustle to Full-Time: The birth of a business

• 04:30 — Building a Brand: Lessons from a multi-million dollar startup

• 07:15 — Betting on Yourself: The moment Michelle went all in

• 10:00 — Balancing Passions: Strategies for multi-passionate entrepreneurs

• 13:20 — Reinventing After 40: Advice for late bloomers

• 16:00 — Quickfire: Biggest leap, mindset shifts, and visibility mistakes

Guest Links:

• Website: [Michelle Thames Media Solutions](#)

• LinkedIn: [Michelle Thames](#)

• Instagram: [@michellethames](#)

• Book: The Big Leap by Gay Hendricks

What if everything you know about marketing is wrong?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Joshua Ramsey, the Fractional CMO who’s helped countless businesses slash costs and skyrocket results. Joshua pulls back the curtain on the real reasons most marketing budgets fail—and shares the science, stories, and strategies that separate the winners from the wasted.

Discover the emotional journey behind every marketing decision, the power of perception, and why data—not gut feeling—should drive your next campaign. Whether you’re a founder, marketer, or just curious about what really works in 2025, this episode will change how you see your brand, your budget, and your business.

What You'll Learn:

• The “Law of Thirds”: Why understanding your true cost per acquisition is the first step to smarter marketing.

• Perception is everything: How your brand’s reputation is built (or broken) by what people see—not what you say.

• The funnel decoded: Why every business must master inbound before chasing trends like AI.

• Real-world hacks: From mall surveys to Google AdWords, Joshua shares actionable tactics for any budget.

• Fact vs. feeling: The surprising reason most business owners miss out on their best marketing opportunities.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Hidden Costs of Marketing: Joshua’s eye-opening story of a roofer who stopped all marketing (and what happened next)

• 04:20 – Hollywood’s Secret: What movie trailers can teach you about ramping up your brand

• 06:54 – Leverage Marketing: How to double down on what works (and cut what doesn’t)

• 10:27 – Fact vs. Feeling: The data-driven mindset that changes everything

• 17:17 – 2025’s Top Marketing Trends: Why AI is overhyped and what really matters

• 20:27 – Where to Invest First: Joshua’s no-nonsense advice for new businesses

• 23:48 – Three Quick Wins: Citations, real feedback, and the $250 AdWords hack

Guest Links:

• Website: jrcmo.com

• LinkedIn: Joshua Ramsey on LinkedIn (search “Josh Ramsey marketing”)

• Instagram: @josh_ramsey_cmo (suggested handle, verify for accuracy)

• Book: “The Agile Marketing Plan” (placeholder—replace with actual title if available)

Are you burning money on marketing agencies and still not seeing results?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Joshua Ramsey, a fractional CMO with 20+ years of experience and 80,000+ campaigns under his belt, to expose the hidden truths behind agency relationships—and how business owners can finally take control.

Joshua shares raw stories of frustration, costly mistakes, and the emotional rollercoaster of trusting the wrong partners. Discover the mindset shifts, strategies, and KPIs that separate thriving businesses from those stuck in a cycle of disappointment. If you’re ready to stop wasting money and start scaling smarter, this episode is your wake-up call.

What You'll Learn:

• Why most business owners set themselves up for disappointment with agencies—and how to break the cycle.

• The single most important question to ask before hiring any marketing partner.

• How to set KPIs that actually drive results (and what to do when they’re not met).

• The power of agility: why sticking to a failing plan is the costliest mistake of all.

• Programmatic advertising explained: the future-proof channel you can’t afford to ignore.

Timestamps:

00:00 – The Hidden Frustration: Why Most Agency Relationships Fail02:26 – The Unique Selling Proposition: What Really Makes You Stand Out?05:33 – Setting KPIs That Matter: The Secret to Agency Accountability10:26 – Should You Hire a CMO? The CEO’s Dilemma13:56 – When to Cut Your Losses: The “Good Money After Bad” Trap16:54 – Agility or Die: The Real Secret to Surviving in Marketing20:26 – The One Channel Joshua Would Bet His Career On

What if the key to your business growth isn’t more ads, but more authenticity?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson—live video strategist, digital stage pioneer, and founder of Take One Tech—to reveal the untold truths behind building a magnetic brand in the digital age.

Alec shares the real reason live video transforms strangers into superfans, the overlooked tech upgrades that instantly boost your presence, and the emotional journey of turning online connections into lifelong relationships.

Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or just starting out, Alec’s story will challenge what you think you know about content, connection, and confidence. Get ready for actionable insights, honest confessions, and a roadmap to monetizing your passion—without losing your soul.

What You'll Learn :

• The simplest live video setup that anyone can start with—no fancy gear required

• Why audio quality matters more than video (and the affordable mic Alec swears by)

• The “confidence monitor” trick that instantly levels up your on-camera presence

• How to turn casual viewers into loyal clients—Alec’s secret to building trust

• The #1 mistake that kills engagement (and the new tools that fix it for good)

**Timestamps:**

• 00:01 — Why Live Video Is a Game Changer for Entrepreneurs

• 01:05 — The Beginner’s Setup: Start Simple, Sound Great

• 03:20 — Level Up: The Two Upgrades That Transform Your Production

• 06:34 — The Real Secret to Audience Engagement (and What Most Get Wrong)

• 12:26 — From Streams to Sales: Turning Viewers into Clients

• 15:35 — Monetization 101: The First Step Alec Wishes He Took Sooner

• 18:57 — Dream Locations, Real Connections: Alec’s Vision for the Future

**Guest Links:**

• Website: takeonetech.io

• YouTube: [Take One Tech 2](https://www.youtube.com/@TakeOneTech2)

What if the only thing standing between you and your audience is a single moment of courage?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Alec Johnson, founder of Take One Tech and creator of Digital Stage Academy, to uncover the raw truth behind building confidence, clarity, and connection in the world of live video. Alec reveals the hidden fears, the power of community, and the game-changing mindset shifts that separate those who merely show up from those who truly command the digital stage.

Whether you’re a creator, entrepreneur, or someone terrified of hitting “Go Live,” this conversation will challenge your assumptions and inspire you to embrace imperfection, authenticity, and growth. Discover why your first live stream is never as scary as you think—and how the right support can turn your biggest mistakes into your greatest strengths.

What You'll Learn :

• Confidence is built through repetition, authenticity, and embracing imperfection.

• The Ecamm Live community’s support is a game-changer for creators at every level.

• Your first live stream is rarely watched—so use it as a safe space to grow.

• Mistakes and tech failures are not setbacks; they’re opportunities for real connection.

• Start simple: focus on your message, not the gear, and let your skills evolve naturally.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Alec Johnson’s Journey: From One-Take Videos to Digital Stage Mastery

• 03:44 – The “Aha” Moment: Why Authenticity Beats Perfection Every Time

• 08:00 – The Biggest Fear: Is Anyone Really Watching Your First Live Stream?

• 10:45 – When Tech Fails: Turning Bloopers into Unbreakable Confidence

• 12:35 – The 3 Cs: Clarity, Confidence, and Connection Explained

• 14:52 – Scuba Diving & Live Video: Staying Calm When Everything Goes Wrong

• 19:58 – The Most Ironic On-Camera Blooper (and What It Taught Alec)

Guest Links:

• Website: Take One Tech (placeholder)

• LinkedIn: Alec Johnson on LinkedIn (placeholder)

• Instagram: @takeonetech (placeholder)

• Book: Digital Stage Academy (placeholder)

What if the secret to lifelong health isn’t a radical overhaul, but a series of tiny, consistent steps?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with renowned wellness coach Tess Cheng, whose journey and coaching philosophy are reshaping how we think about self-care. Tess reveals the science and stories behind building habits that last, sharing why “starting small” is the most powerful tool for transformation.

From the influence of “Atomic Habits” to the real-life micro-habits that keep busy people thriving, Tess opens up about her own struggles, breakthroughs, and the emotional side of wellness. Whether you’re overwhelmed by change or searching for practical ways to prioritize yourself, this conversation will leave you inspired to take action—one small step at a time.

What You'll Learn:

• Why starting with just 10 minutes can change your life—and your brain.

• The hidden power of hydration and movement for busy professionals.

• How to “habit stack” for effortless self-improvement.

• The #1 strategy for disease prevention and long-term vitality.

• Tess’s personal chapter title: “Sharing my knowledge with others is the most beautiful thing on earth.”

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Power of Small Steps: Tess’s approach to sustainable wellness

• 01:07 – Atomic Habits: How James Clear’s book shaped Tess’s coaching

• 03:03 – Meditation & Breathing: Why less is more for beginners

• 04:28 – Micro-Habits for Busy Lives: Hydration, movement, and brain breaks

• 06:29 – The Longevity Secret: Movement as medicine for mind and body

• 08:20 – Scheduling Self-Care: Making wellness non-negotiable

• 10:46 – Tess’s Chapter Title: The beauty of sharing knowledge

Guest Links:

• Website: Glow with Tess

• LinkedIn: Not provided

• Instagram: Not provided

• Book: Not provided

This episode is your invitation to start small, stay consistent, and discover the joy of lifelong wellness—straight from a coach who’s living proof that tiny habits can spark massive change.

What if your family’s health history could become your greatest source of strength?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Tess Cheng, a certified health and wellness coach with over 13 years of experience and a master’s in clinical nutrition from NYU.

Tess’s journey from navigating hypoglycemia and a family legacy of diabetes to empowering others with practical, science-backed wellness strategies is as inspiring as it is actionable.

Discover how Tess transformed personal adversity into a mission to help others reclaim control over their health. She shares the mindset shifts, daily habits, and science-driven insights that make wellness achievable—even for the busiest lives. If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by the idea of change, Tess’s story will show you that small, consistent steps can lead to lifelong transformation.

What You'll Learn:

• Your genes are not your destiny—prevention and mindful choices can rewrite your health story.

• Sustainable wellness starts with one small habit at a time, not an all-or-nothing overhaul.

• Sleep is the secret weapon for better health, weight management, and decision-making.

• Mindset matters: treat your health like a long-term investment, not a quick fix.

• Support, education, and self-compassion are the keys to lasting change.

Timestamps:

• [00:00] Meet Tess Cheng: From family health struggles to wellness authority

• [01:11] The wake-up call: Discovering hypoglycemia and taking control

• [04:06] How clinical nutrition shaped Tess’s coaching philosophy

• [06:35] The real reason we sabotage our sleep—and how to fix it

• [09:48] Overcoming overwhelm: Tess’s step-by-step approach to building habits

• [11:26] The mindset shift that changes everything: Health as a long game

• [13:50] Where to find Tess and start your own wellness journey

Guest Links:

• Website: GlowWithTess.com

• (No LinkedIn, Instagram, or book links provided in this episode. For more, visit Tess’s website.)

If you’re ready to take the first step toward a healthier, more empowered life, this episode is your blueprint.

What if the secret to building an audio empire is listening, not talking?

In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Charlie Birney—co-founder of Podville Media, author of The Tao of Podcasting, and the “Chief Listening Officer”—to uncover the surprising journey from golf courses and property management to the heart of the podcasting revolution.

Charlie shares how embracing change, following curiosity, and prioritizing connection over content transformed his career and the industry.

Discover the philosophy behind podcasting’s most intimate moments, the power of internal podcasts, and why the best studios are built on empathy and service. This is a masterclass in reinvention, creativity, and the art of truly listening.

What You'll Learn:

• Why “intimacy” is the secret ingredient that makes podcasting so powerful—and how to harness it.

• The story behind Podville Media’s evolution from “Podcast Village” and the rise of video in audio spaces.

• How Charlie’s background in real estate and philanthropy shaped his approach to building creative businesses.

• The philosophy and inspiration behind “The Tao of Podcasting”—and why every podcaster needs a moment of silence before the sound.

• How music, family, and hobbies fuel creativity and keep the entrepreneurial spirit alive.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – Meeting at Podfest: The serendipity that sparked a creative partnership

• 04:30 – From Golf Courses to Podcast Studios: Reinventing a career through curiosity

• 10:15 – The Birth of Podville Media: Why video changed everything

• 17:40 – The Tao of Podcasting: Philosophy, art, and the “yin-yang microphone”

• 25:05 – The Power of Internal Podcasts: Connecting companies from the inside out

• 32:20 – Music, Community, and Giving Back: How folk music and charity shape a life

• 39:00 – Lightning Round: Favorite mics, dream guests, and the “boredom boogie” song

Connect with Our Guest:

• Website: https://podvillemedia.com

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliebirney/

• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/podvillemedia/

• Book: The Tao of Podcasting (Amazon) – https://www.amazon.com/Tao-Podcasting-Charlie-Birney/dp/B0C5YJ8K9F

What if the secret to thriving isn’t about being the toughest in the room, but the most adaptable?In this episode, Junaid Ahmed sits down with Rand Selig—veteran investment banker, author of "Thriving," and master of intentional living—to uncover the hidden strategies behind building a life and career filled with purpose, energy, and fulfillment.

From turning down a giant corporate offer to redefining what it means to be successful, Rand shares raw stories and practical tools for anyone ready to break free from society’s expectations. Discover how resilience, relationships, and a service mindset can transform setbacks into opportunities—and why your only real competition is the person in the mirror.

What You'll Learn:

• Why resilience is about bouncing back, not just being tough—think rubber ball, not metal.

• The power of saying “no” to deals that don’t align with your values, even when Goliath comes knocking.

• How to stop letting society define your success and start living by your own standards.

• The three pillars of a thriving mindset: service, intentional relationships, and relentless positivity.

• Why your greatest growth comes from evolving past your former self—not outshining others.

Timestamps:

• 00:00 – The Rubber Ball vs. The Metal Ball: What True Resilience Looks Like

• 04:15 – David vs. Goliath: Turning Down a Giant and Winning Your Freedom

• 10:30 – Redefining Success: Are You Living for Yourself or for Society?

• 16:45 – The Man in the Mirror: Competing with Your Former Self

• 21:20 – The Power of Mentorship and Building Your Support Circle

• 26:00 – Three Tools for Thriving: Service, Relationships, and Positivity

• 32:10 – Star Trek, Beekeepers, and the Secret to Attracting Opportunity

**Guest Links:**

• Website: randselig.com

• LinkedIn: Rand Selig on LinkedIn

• Book: "Thriving" by Rand Selig on Amazon

• Instagram: @randselig