KCBC season 1 veteran Heather Snyder returns to the show to talk about her new, revolutionary AI-powered marketing company, ProMode.ai!

Heather's experience working with hundreds of B2B companies as Director of Strategy at a digital marketing agency makes her uniquely equipped to know what great B2B marketing is made of and how the marketing agency model is broken. High turnover in agencies, antiquated pricing models and mediocre deliverables drove Heather to seek out a partner to build a better way to serve B2B businesses.

As a career salesperson and strategist, Heather understands the differences between vanity metrics like clicks and site views and qualified leads that result in revenue. Reverse engineering the B2B sales cycle is Heather's method of choice for arriving at a winning marketing strategy. That method is woven into the fabric of ProMode.ai.

We had a great time further unpacking her origin story, the problems with using generative AI for professional purposes, RAGs, LLMs, machine learning, and ProMode.ai really works. They are up, fully operational, and have already seen strong results for the companies they serve!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview

03:01 Heather Snyder's Journey into Marketing

05:35 The Evolution of Marketing and Sales Skills

08:14 The Launch of Pro Mode AI

11:04 Challenges Faced by Marketing Agencies

13:42 The Role of AI in Marketing

15:50 Understanding Pro Mode AI's Unique Approach

18:07 The Importance of Content Creation

20:53 How Pro Mode AI Works

23:52 The Future of Marketing with AI

49:51 Podcasting Journey and Inspiration

49:54 The Value of Podcasting for Business Owners

52:17 Pro Mode: Revolutionizing Content Creation

59:20 Navigating Conservative Media Buying

01:02:44 Final Thoughts and Future Directions

01:05:46 Outro

Connect with Heather, book a free demo for your business, and learn more about ProMode.ai:

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#b2bmarketing #digitalmarketing #AI #contentcreation

Emily Linhardt, Owner of Silverstone Bookkeeping provides monthly bookkeeping solutions for individuals and businesses. An early supporter of the show, and bookkeeping provider for several small businesses we know personally in the KC metro, Emily is an absolute pro. She is also very candid about her experience and the experience of newer smaller businesses in our area.

Her professionalism, transparent style of communication, and genuine drive to help business owners in her community succeed makes her one to definitely follow and support in Kansas City. During this conversation, we discussed her origin story, the importance of being real and seeking community as a business owner, the role of technology, and future plans for SFS.

Based in Kansas City, and able to help from abroad through QuickBooks Online, her team provides expert guidance with a personal touch. If you are a bookkeeping professional looking to go out on your own, or a small business owner that has been bogged down by bookkeeping (or lack of!) in your business, definitely listen to this episode!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Overview of Silverstone Financial Solutions

10:39 Emily's Origin Story and Journey into Bookkeeping

17:17 The Importance of Community and Support in Business

27:17 Navigating Challenges and Staying Present as a Business Owner

34:25 The Role of Technology and AI in Accounting

40:47 Future Plans for Silverstone Financial Solutions and Advisory Services

01:00:59 End

Hire Silverstone Bookkeeping:

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “Hackers” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#bookkeeping #accounting #womanownedbusiness #smallbusiness

A good friend and long-time supporter of the show, Emily Franchett, runs ENF’s Design Studio, an interior design consultancy here in the Kansas City metro. She will get you thinking about things in a new way. She will also challenge you to re-think your approach to designing, decorating, and arranging your own home! We have personally witnessed the result of her work and heard testimonials from her clients. She is the real deal.

An artist by trade, a stylist by nature, she cultivates creativity in partnerships with her clients. Whether you are thinking about hiring an interior designer or not, and especially if you think you can’t afford the luxury or don’t want to prioritize it for your own home, we encourage you to listen and hope you will find inspiration in this conversation!

We discussed trends and how they can disempower homeowners, the power of red, the safety of beige, sustainable design, “second life” items, and so much more. Emily communicates the principles of interior design and the power of designing your home the way you want to. It can literally change your life!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

01:28 Becoming an Interior Designer

02:23 Creating Homes that Make You Feel Good

03:39 The Role of Emotions in Design

06:30 The Power of Intentionality in Design

13:48 Embracing Individuality and Avoiding Trends

19:09 The Impact of Trends on Design

23:29 Childlike Wonder and Ownership of Space

28:29 Sustainability in Design

34:28 Sustainability and Quality in Interior Design

37:50 Bringing Life and Calmness with Plants

44:35 Being Authentic and True to Oneself

01:05:21 Subscribe!

Follow and book a free consultation with Emily:

• ​https://enfsdesignstudio.com/
• ​Instagram: www.instagram.com/enfs_designstudio or @enfs_designstudio
• ​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ENFsDesignStudio?mibextid=LQQJ4d or ENF’s Design Studio
• ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-franchett-a1590a159/

KCBC Info:

• ​Support us with $ monthly through the link at the bottom of every episode. This helps us pay for subscription fees, hardware, and studio equipment. We appreciate you!
• ​Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook
• ​Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913
• ​KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv
• ​YouTube: @KCBCtv
• ​Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast
• ​Apple Podcasts – Kansas City Business Cast
• ​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816
• ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbc913
• ​Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “The Vault” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, books, albums, companies, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you or your favorite whomever out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#interiordesign #artist #colortheory #texture #aligneddesign

William Fondren II is a husband, father, US military veteran, beekeeper, & business owner here in the Kansas City region. A longtime supporter of the show and someone we’ve sought to bring on since we started this whole thing, we are very proud of how this conversation turned out!

What started as a fascination with bees has now become a business with bees as his business partners. Learn about how he found his first home for the bees while the hive was on the way, the challenges that come with beekeeping, the fascinating facts about bees, and what its really like transitioning from military to business-owner after over a decade in service.

William has seen his bees’ honey make it into local food and special brews in collaboration with Vine Street Brewing and Casual Animal Brewing here in Kansas City. We are excited to see him continue to expand, get more hives, get certifications, and grow Hive+Harvest as a business to watch here in Kansas City!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:24 The Importance of Beekeeping

04:52 William's Journey into Beekeeping

08:15 Challenges and Lessons in Building a Beekeeping Business

17:19 The Power of Networking

24:44 Certifications and Building a Legit Business

27:48 Upcoming Events and Markets

29:28 Transitioning from Military to Civilian Life

31:14 The Support and Opportunities for Veterans

35:31 The Influence of Mentors and Influencers

41:55 The Power of Networking and Building Connections

46:08 Resilience: Overcoming Challenges and Achieving Success

53:23 Introduction and Background

54:00 Desire for Business Structure and Processes

55:22 Building a Legacy and Creating Something Lasting

56:22 Expanding and Replicating Success

57:36 Ensuring Consistent Quality and Experiences

59:20 Legacy and the Importance of Leaving Something Behind

01:00:07 Involving Children in Entrepreneurship

01:01:27 Teaching Valuable Skills to Children

01:02:17 Pricing and Business Lessons for Children

01:03:42 The Role of AI in Business

01:05:43 The Benefits of AI in Business

01:12:06 Efficiency and Human Energy

01:16:00 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

01:16:38 Subscribe!

Support William, buy some honey, and catch him at a pop-up:

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “Lost Soul” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, books, albums, companies, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you or your favorite whomever out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#beekeeper #bees #honey #localhoney #apiculture #apiary #hive

She’s got jokes, a potty mouth, and a heart of gold! Megan Colwell’s approach to niching down on pet pyrography and helping business owners design their social media presence is inspiring!

From 5 years of living in her camper on the road across the United States, she created a career for herself as a virtual assistant in the real estate industry. Always an artist, she also perfected her craft in pyrography, AKA “free-hand wood burning.” As she sought out creative opportunities to grow and provide for herself consistently, she now serves as the Director of Design at Fun Love Media. She sells fully custom, hand crafted pet portraits through her Instagram account, Happi Camper KC.

Megan shares invaluable insights about pushing through self-doubts on social media, personal branding, stumbling into new opportunities by saying “YES”, and the importance of racking up 10,000 hours before deciding to quit something worthwhile!

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

03:34 From Hobby to Business: Megan's Journey as a Digital Creator

08:47 Overcoming Self-Doubt: Leaning into Your Cringe

13:21 Building a Personal Brand: Authentic Storytelling

17:53 The Power of Niche: Wood Burning Pet Portraits

20:51 Finding Joy in Your Work: Staying True to Your Passion

28:46 Preventing Burnout: Taking Breaks and Doing Passion Projects

30:59 Navigating the Journey of a Digital Artist

35:41 Balancing Creativity and Financial Needs

41:59 Becoming a Speaker and Putting Yourself Out There

48:30 Setting Goals and Not Giving Up

Support Megan:

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “O-Ren” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#contentcreator #pyrography #marketingstrategy #socialmediamarketing

Cassidy Wheeler is amongst the top 40 real estate agents under 40 years old here in Kansas City. She has been validated by her peers as an expert negotiator, exceptional communicator, and committed advocate for her clients.

She is also one of the kindest, most well-connected networkers we know. We have watched her make meaningful connections amongst business owners that aren’t even operating in the real estate industry. She joked on this episode that no matter what someone needs, she’s “got a guy” she can refer them to. Even better, all of the people she refers to have either helped her personally in the past, or have credentials to validate themselves as experts in their fields.

It is an honor to have her be the first real estate professional on the show in KCBC history! She runs Scout Homes & Design along with her husband, Kyle. We talked about her upbringing, values, profound lessons she learned from her family, and how she helps her clients have a luxury experience at every price point (whether they’re buying a $100,000 or $2 million home).

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:43 Defining Scout Homes and the Journey to Real Estate

09:26 Lessons from the Housing Market

16:31 Education and Myths for Buyers and Sellers

24:58 Ideal Clients and Core Values

31:22 Lessons and Advice for New Agents

36:28 Building Trust and a Strong Team

37:56 Finding Work-Life Balance and Creating a Home Oasis

42:16 The Power of Networking and Connecting People

44:51 The Future of the Real Estate Market in Kansas City

Contact her to buy or sell homes in Kansas and Missouri:

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

Music: “Androids & Sentient Beings” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, books, albums, companies, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you or your favorite whomever out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#realestate #kansascityhomes #housingmarket #renovation #reinvestor #homedesign #building #residential

Ryan Newton is a new guest on KCBC, but has been part of our tribe since its inception in the summer of 2023. Part of the Referral Madness group which Michael and other guests have mentioned numerous times, we have watched him hone his business acumen and grow his own solar company.

Based on his extensive experience as a sales and regional management executive, his knack for research, and leverage of social media platforms, we envision him becoming a leader in Kansas City’s solar industry.

Rynori is more than just a solar company; they are dedicated to making a positive impact on the environment. They will collaborate closely with you to determine the best solar system tailored to your unique needs, considering factors such as location, energy usage, and budget.

We discussed Ryan’s origins as a solarpreneur, facts about solar panels, huge customer wins, and how to run a successful business, especially in its early stages.

Chapters:

00:00 The Journey

08:14 The Benefits of Solar Energy: Cost Savings and Reliability

15:35 Solar Energy: A Sustainable Solution for the Future

22:38 Personalized Consultations: Is Solar Energy Right for You?

26:20 Assessing Shading, Roof Direction, and Roof Space

28:55 Alternative Energy-Efficient Options for Homeowners

31:24 Installation Process and Quality Control

40:23 Favorite Jobs and Success Stories

45:30 Growth of Rynori

45:57 The Importance of Personal Habits and Mindset

50:55 Staying Up-to-Date with Industry Knowledge

56:58 Building Relationships and Helping Others in Business

Support Ryan:

​YouTube: https://youtube.com/@rynori

​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RynoriKC?mibextid=LQQJ4d

​TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@rynori_?_t=8nky3rGLU90&_r=1

​Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rynori_solar or @rynori_solar

​Website: https://rynori.com

• 

• KCBC Info:
• ​Support us with $ monthly through the link at the bottom of every episode. We appreciate you!
• ​Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook
• ​Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

​KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv

​YouTube: @KCBCtv

​Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast

• ​Apple Podcasts – Kansas City Business Cast
• ​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816
• ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbc913
• ​Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc
• 

• This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.
• 

• Music: “Menace” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.
• 

• Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, books, albums, companies, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you or your favorite whomever out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#greenenergy #solar #kansascitysolar #midwestsolar #sunpower

Chase Forsyth is the co-founder of Hardwear Clothing LLC, a professional bodybuilder, and fitness coach (for all people, all shapes, all sizes, all goals). He runs Hardwear along with 3 other bodybuilders located here in the Midwest.

We discussed injuries, setbacks, bodybuilding, and the innerworkings of Hardwear on this episode.

He also busted a few myths about bodybuilders, described what it is like to prepare for a competition, the pros and cons of the bodybuilding industry, educating others, and what’s coming up next for Hardwear.

Support Chase via the links below, and stay hard!


Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:36 The Birth of Hardwear LLC

05:16 Catering to the Fitness Community

12:48 The Importance of an Oversized Fit

18:23 Overcoming Injuries and Challenges

24:23 Physical Therapy and Mobility

25:27 How Bodybuilding Saved My Life

29:56 The Sacrifice and Determination of the Bodybuilding Lifestyle

40:43 The Supportive Community at Beastified

41:22 The Negativity and Insecurity in the Fitness Industry

42:04 Understanding the Dedication and Hard Work of Bodybuilders

46:39 Goals for the Future of Hardware

48:17 The Challenges of Finding the Right Shirts

50:06 The Process of Screen Printing

51:00 Dedication and Determination in Bodybuilding

53:40 The Power of Showing That You Care

58:07 The Sacrifices and Risks of Pursuing Bodybuilding

01:11:02 End credit

Support Chase, his team, & buy some Hardwear:

​Instagram: @hardwearclothingllc or https://www.instagram.com/hardwearclothingllc & @chasengainz or https://www.instagram.com/chasengainz

​TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@hardwearclothingllc

• ​Website: https://www.hardwearclothing.shop
• ​The dudes of Hardwear Clothing LLC: Brad Jacobs @bradjacobsss, Kenneth @kenny2classic, & Bryan An @buff_bison
• 

• KCBC Info:

​Support us with $ monthly through the link at the bottom of every episode. We appreciate you!

​Media Inquiries: direct message us on Instagram, LinkedIn, or Facebook

​Instagram (our main page): https://www.instagram.com/kcbc913

• ​KCBCtv (our sponsoring network): https://www.instagram.com/kcbctv
• ​YouTube: @KCBCtv
• ​Spotify: Kansas City Business Cast
• ​Apple Podcasts – Kansas City Business Cast
• ​Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kcbc913816
• ​LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/kcbc913
• ​Hire VAS LLC Business Coaching: https://www.linkedin.com/company/vasllc
• 

• This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.
• 


Music: “The Enemy Method” by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, books, albums, companies, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you or your favorite whomever out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#bodybuilding #heavylifting #kansascity #podcast #menshealth

You need to hear this. Tell a friend to tell a friend!

Bump Jonas is a creative at his core. Everything he does comes from his confidence, conviction, and compassion to connect with others and bring awareness to the awesomeness happening here in Kansas City AKA “the KardiaC”, as he calls it.

He is the host of the Sprinkle Sum Salt podcast, co-founder of ThraxX Pastry (a cannabis-based edibles service led by his wife), & founder of his own clothing company, Everyone Moves Together.

Listen to his origin story, perspective on business & family priorities, personal growth journey, and how he is working to build community and confidence in other creatives here in the KardiaC.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Background

02:26 Sprinkle Some Salt Podcast

05:27 Conversations from the Cardiac

09:43 The Mecca and Supporting Local Creatives

14:55 Lessons Learned and Gaining Confidence

21:21 Kansas City as the New Mecca

25:08 The Intersection of Creativity and Business

28:36 Shifting the Business Narrative

31:31 Rediscovering Wonder and Embracing Change

35:38 Fighting for Your Vision

45:47 Including Family in Creative and Business Endeavors

53:16 Prioritizing ThraxX Pastry

01:00:48 Roles and Responsibilities in ThraxX Pastry

01:14:20 Educating People about Edibles in Various Spaces

01:16:53 Dispensary Edibles vs. Homemade or Street-Level Edibles

01:32:14 The Strengths and Weaknesses of Kansas City

Support Bump:

Sprinkle Sum Salt Podcast:

Everyone Moves Together apparel:

ThraxX Pastry: @thraxx.pastryog on Instagram or https://www.instagram.com/thraxx.pastryog

KCBC Info:

This interview was recorded @kcbctv studio, and the guest’s own studio environment.

“Mutants of Technology” - Music by Karl Casey / White Bat Audio @whitebataudio on YouTube and Instagram.

Content mentioned during the episode:

We don’t tag the folks, authors, restaurants, books, etc. mentioned as we did in Season 1 (first 24 episodes). You will just need to listen to hear if we call you out!

The information and opinions presented by our guests do not reflect the opinions of Kansas City Business Cast (KCBC), Kansas City Business Cast Network (KCBCtv), or its affiliates & sponsors. Sometimes we talk about finance, health, wellness, philosophy, history, the economy, religion, and other topics. This episode, as with all of our episodes, is intended for educational purposes.

#KansasCity #Podcaster #Entrepreneurs

Charon Thompson is our season 1 finale guest and we could not be more pumped about this conversation! This man is a legend in KC and one to know if you don’t already!

Charon is a God-fearing husband, father, entrepreneur, nonprofit leader, heavy equipment operator, and co-founder of Black Drip Coffee & The Porterhouse KC. We talked about his origin story, hobbies, music, philosophy on entrepreneurship, and how he & Dan Smith started BDC and PHKC.

He brings enthusiasm, creativity, ingenuity, and welcoming sense of humor to everything he does. Order some Black Drip Coffee and support The Porterhouse KC – they have been and will continue to make big moves for emerging entrepreneurs in Kansas City (and beyond!).

We also discussed leadership, mentoring, how to stay motivated, comic books, the recent Royals stadium vote, parenting children in today’s world, how awesome Kansas City is for entrepreneurs, the future for BDC, PHKC, and even KCBC. Be inspired and lift others up!

Support Charon & Team:

Businesses and Good People named in this episode (Instagram tags):

KCBC Info:

Credits:

#Entrepreneur #KansasCity #Coffee