Hey there! You're in for a treat with today's #MeetCoolPeople episode. I got to chat with Stacy Eleczko - and let me tell you, this conversation was gold for anyone looking to nail their brand messaging.

Here's what I love about Stacy's story - she kind of fell into copywriting by accident! She started in education, but her curiosity and willingness to take chances led her down this totally different path. Now she's a brand messaging strategist and website sales copywriter, helping impact-driven businesses find their voice and stand out in the crowd.

During our chat, we dove deep into what makes a business's messaging really work. You know those companies that just seem to "get it" with their marketing? Stacy broke down exactly how they do it - and better yet, how you can do it too.

🎯 Key Takeaways:

• Brand Story Magic: Okay, this blew my mind - your brand story isn't what YOU say about your business, it's what OTHER people say when you're not around! Stacy shared how to shape that narrative in a way that actually sticks.
• Mission, Vision & Values (Yes, They Actually Matter!): Whether you're a one-person show or running a bigger operation, these aren't just fancy words for your website. They're like your business's GPS - keeping you on track and helping you make better decisions every single day.
• Speaking Your Customer's Language: Stop trying to sound fancy! Stacy emphasized that the best messaging comes from literally using your clients' own words when they talk about their problems and how you helped solve them. 
• Core Values That Actually Mean Something: We had such a great discussion about how core values like kindness and respect aren't just feel-good fluff - they're your secret weapon for building genuine connections and growing your business authentically.
• Evolution Is Good: Your messaging should grow as your business does. What worked last year might not hit the mark today, and that's totally okay!

🔗 Connect with Stacy:

* Find her on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/copybystacy

* Check out her website: https://stacyeleczko.com/

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients?

Watch the free training at ConvertMoreClientsNow.com

Welcome back to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the pleasure of sitting down with the Noelle Labrie. Noelle is the owner and founder of Tri-Skill Consulting, and she shared some amazing experiences and insights into leadership and personal growth.

Noelle’s journey from getting kicked out of college to running a successful consulting firm is a fun one and it actually opened up a lot of other side topics for us to get into. We covered a lot of ground in this conversation, including her passion for servant leadership and the importance of effective communication in nurturing young leaders.

Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation:

• Clear, Consistent, and Concise Communication: Noelle emphasized the need for leaders to communicate their expectations clearly, consistently, and concisely. This helps in building trust and ensures that everyone is on the same page.
• Servant Leadership: Leading by serving others was a central theme. Noelle believes in empowering her team members to reach their full potential, which in turn helps the entire organization thrive.
• Embrace Personal Growth: Noelle’s story of overcoming challenges and building resilience underlines the importance of personal growth. She shared how understanding oneself and continuously improving are crucial for effective leadership.
• Ask for Help: A sign of strength and not weakness, asking for help and seeking mentorship can significantly impact one’s leadership journey. Noelle highlighted the importance of being open to guidance and learning from others.
• Lead by Example: She underscored the need for leaders to model the behavior they wish to see in their teams. Traits like kindness, respect, and compassion are essential for creating a positive and productive work environment.

For anyone interested in connecting with Noelle and learning more about her approach to leadership, you can visit her website at: https://www.tri-skillconsulting.com/

Make sure to download her self-assessment tool available on her site to kickstart your journey toward better leadership.

----

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at www.convertmoreclientsnow.com

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had the pleasure of chatting with Dave Gieselman. Dave is the founder of Limitless Flow Breathwork and a former professional chef who transitioned from high-stress kitchens to mastering stress and communication for business professionals through the power of breathwork.

If you’ve heard of doing breathwork before, imagine leveling that up several steps, and THAT is what Dave is doing! I can say from personal experience that it’s a whole new level.

;)

Dave shared his journey from dealing with overwhelming stress in Los Angeles kitchens to discovering the scientific underpinnings of breathwork. This fascinating conversation covered how specific breathing techniques can boost team communication, productivity, and even creativity, particularly by achieving a flow state.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

• The Science of Breathwork for Stress Management: By controlling respiration, you can influence your heart rate and brain function, which aids in managing stress and improving performance.
• Achieving Flow State: Known as transient hypofrontality, this state enhances cognitive abilities, fosters emotional release, and triggers creative breakthroughs.
• Breathing Techniques for Daily Stress Relief: Specific methods like the "Physiological Sigh" and "Clarity Breath" can quickly reduce anxiety and prepare you for challenging situations.
• Saturday Breathwork Sessions: Dave offers 90-minute breathwork sessions every Saturday at 10 AM Pacific, both in-person in Los Angeles and virtually. These sessions aim to provide self-awareness and insights without specific interventions.

Be sure to connect with Dave and join one of his breathwork sessions at www.ConnectToFlow.com. 

In fact, Dave was kind enough to give us a chance to see his work in action during a complimentary session!

Here’s how to sign up:

1. Go to https://www.ConnectToFlow.com
2. Click on “Join A Limitless Flow session - In-person or live on Zoom”
3. Once there, pick your day, add your ticket to checkout
4. Use the promo code "coolpeople1" 

This is a fantastic way to spend your Saturday morning, and I highly recommend it.

Thank you, Dave, for an enlightening conversation. And to our listeners, thanks for tuning in to the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! If you have feedback or suggestions for improvement, we’re always eager to hear from you.

=========

Interested in learning more about how my team and I can assist you in converting casual connections into clients? Don't forget to check out our free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/.

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had a great conversation with Joshua Wathen, the COO of Triad Infosec, a serial entrepreneur, and a former Green Beret. Joshua and I met at the Badass Business Summit in Fort Worth last September and had a short but solid chat. Today’s conversation went in a few directions… From the challenges of cybersecurity to the importance of discipline, and then we landed the ship on the value of genuine relationships in business.

Joshua shared several great lessons from his military background, emphasizing the importance of discipline and accountability in both personal and professional life. We discussed how honesty and the ability to admit mistakes can build stronger relationships with clients, a principle we both firmly believe in. We also talked about the importance of mastering the basics and having core values that truly matter.

Here are a few key takeaways from our conversation:

• Admitting Mistakes Builds Trust: Being honest about your mistakes can strengthen your client relationships by showcasing transparency and respect.
• The Role of Discipline in Success: Discipline is crucial for entrepreneurship, whether it’s maintaining a consistent exercise routine or managing daily tasks. It’s about embracing discomfort and staying consistent.
• Genuine Relationships Over Transactions: Personal connections are often more valuable than technical skills. Building rapport and genuine interactions are key to long-term success.
• Core Values Are Fundamental: Identify and stick to your true core values like honesty, integrity, and empathy. These should be real values you're willing to stand by, even in challenging situations.

Joshua Wathen is definitely a guy you want to get to know. Be sure to connect with him on LinkedIn at:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-wathen

------

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients?

Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had a great conversation with Austin ARM Brands. Austin is the host of the "Millionaires Are Made" show, a serial entrepreneur, and a growth coach with a wild background spanning business ventures, athletics, and finding great places to live!

Austin and I first met at the Million Dollar Mastermind event in Dallas, and as I’ve watched him evolve since we met, I knew this would be an awesome conversation. From managing multiple businesses to relocating to the Virgin Islands, Austin shared his journey and how it has shaped his approach to business and life. He emphasized the importance of reflecting on the simplification of life and making a big impact, making this episode a great listen for anyone looking to grow personally or professionally.

Here are a few of the key takeaways from our conversation:

• Embrace Minimalism in Business: Austin suggests that aspiring entrepreneurs reduce materialistic dependence and adopt a lean approach to living, which can lead to significant cost savings and streamline business operations.
• Commit to Your Mission, Vision, and Core Values (MVCV): Austin highlighted the importance of defining personal and professional MVCV for growth and aligning with them consistently, which can help one stay focused and authentic in their pursuits.
• Opportunities in the Virgin Islands: Austin explained the benefits of relocating to the Virgin Islands, such as tax incentives and the potential for easier access to other great benefits, making it an attractive option for businesses and individuals alike.
• Effective Networking and Business Growth: Austin has extensive experience in networking and focuses on helping small businesses grow through branding initiatives under "Millionaires Are Made." His advice on using effective networking to leverage business opportunities is insightful.

Be sure to connect with Austin and let him know you heard him on the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast!, You can find him on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, and YouTube as “Austin ARM Brands”

https://www.facebook.com/AustinARMBrands

======

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! I'm Ely Delaney, and this is a special episode where I talk about what "Meet Cool People" really means. As we celebrate the 58th episode, I take you back to the origins of this show, sharing the journey and insights that have shaped this podcast. We also dive into some recurring themes from past episodes, highlighting the importance of genuine connections and making a positive impact.

The “Meet Cool People” concept originated from my travels as a speaker, where I noticed the power of meeting amazing people. Over time, it has evolved into a platform that showcases some of the coolest entrepreneurs, artists, creatives, and changemakers who are making a difference in the world.

Here are the key takeaways from this episode:

• Genuine Connections Matter: Throughout the show, a recurring theme is the value of forming genuine connections. Authenticity and sincerity in our interactions go a long way in building lasting relationships.
• Making a Positive Impact: The guests on the podcast are not just successful in their fields but are also focused on making a positive impact in their communities and beyond.
• Be Intentional: Whether it's business networking or casual social interactions, being intentional about adding value to others’ lives can create meaningful engagements.
• Embrace Virtual Connections: With the shift to virtual events, building a strong network doesn't require physical presence. Being adaptable and maintaining virtual connections can still provide immense personal and professional growth.
• Celebrate the Small Gestures: Simple acts, like sending a quick birthday video or checking in with a friend, can make someone's day and reinforce bonds.

To connect with me, Ely Delaney, feel free to visit https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/. You can watch a free training video to see how my team and I can help you convert your casual connections into clients.

Thank you for listening, and don't forget to subscribe to the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast for more episodes featuring inspiring individuals who are making a difference. Have a great day, and go out there and be cool people!

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, I had a great conversation with Melissa Cohen, a personal branding and LinkedIn strategist who transitioned from a 30-year career in the fashion industry to helping others amplify their presence on LinkedIn. This episode is packed with practical advice on leveraging LinkedIn for business growth, networking, and personal development.

Melissa shared her journey, starting from the fashion industry, where she managed product development and production, to losing her job during the COVID-19 pandemic. She used this pivotal moment to reinvent herself, leveraging LinkedIn to build a successful consultancy helping people optimize their LinkedIn profiles.

Here are the key takeaways from our chat:

• LinkedIn Premium Benefits: Melissa explained how LinkedIn Premium enhances your profile's visibility, aids in networking, and provides access to extensive learning resources and exclusive events featuring thought leaders and industry experts.
• Personalized Connection Requests: Emphasizing the importance of personalized messages when sending connection requests, Melissa noted LinkedIn’s data showing higher acceptance rates with personalized notes. 
• Profile Enhancement Tips: Melissa underlined the importance of having a professional and updated LinkedIn profile, suggesting a clear headline that serves as a quick elevator pitch about who you are and what you do. She also stressed the necessity of a recent and professional photo.
• Engagement through Comments: Building relationships on LinkedIn goes beyond just posting content. Engaging through comments can be more impactful, echoing Dan Roth's sentiment on the importance of interactive comment sections.
• Maximizing LinkedIn’s Free Features: Before diving into LinkedIn’s paid tools like Sales Navigator, Melissa advocates for fully leveraging free features to make the most of what the platform offers.

Be sure to connect with Melissa Cohen on her LinkedIn here:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissa-beth-cohen

Also, be sure to visit her website at:

https://www.melissabethcohen.com.

Thank you for tuning in! If you enjoyed this episode and want to learn more about converting your casual connections into clients, don’t forget to check out the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/.

Welcome to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, we had a meaningful conversation with Zoe Martin. Zoe is an amazing photographer and the host of the "Heart of North Texas" podcast. This episode covers so much more than just her career; we explore her heartfelt Legacy Project, designed to help others cherish and preserve their memories.

Zoe has a rich history in photography, drawing initial inspiration from Anne Geddes and eventually establishing her own studio. She moved to Dallas following her husband’s job promotion, which opened new avenues and connections in the Dallas-Fort Worth area. Zoe’s deep commitment to her community shines through her podcast and her active involvement with local nonprofits.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

• Personal Brand and Presentation: Both in photography and videography, Zoe emphasizes the importance of properly fitting clothes, involving photographers in outfit selection, and using techniques to enhance visual appeal through layering and background choices.
• Client Comfort: Zoe provides a comprehensive experience for her photography clients that includes relationship building, wardrobe consultations, and complimentary hair and makeup services, ensuring they feel comfortable and confident.
• Networking Power: Zoe firmly believes in the power of genuine relationships over transactional interactions. Networking, as she puts it, can open doors to unexpected opportunities through mutual connections.
• Nonprofit Support: Her podcast, "Heart of North Texas," aims to connect volunteers with nonprofits and encourage community contributions.
• Legacy Matters: Zoe’s Legacy Project, in memory of her sister, offers services like photo restoration and family history recording. This initiative underlines the importance of preserving legacies, not just as end-of-life projects but as a part of everyday life.

Be sure to reach out to Zoe and let her know you heard her on the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast: https://thezoemartin.com/

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome back to the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! Today, we had the privilege of having a conversation with Erika Andresen, a business continuity expert with a rich background in both corporate law and military emergency management. If you’re a small business owner or an entrepreneur (of ANY SIZE), this episode is a must-listen as it provides practical strategies to help maintain business operations during crises.

Erika shared the importance of creating contingency plans and the critical role small businesses play in community recovery post-disaster. We discussed the need for backup plans, the significance of local collaborations, and the impact of preparedness on mental health and business continuity.

Here are the key takeaways from our conversation:

• Preparation Agreements Are Essential: Just like estate planning, having agreements in place can significantly reduce stress during crises. Proactively setting up these plans ensures that business operations can continue smoothly.
• Backup Plans for Solopreneurs: It’s crucial for small businesses and solopreneurs to have contingency plans, especially in regions prone to natural disasters. Whether it’s having alternatives for virtual assistants or backup communication platforms, preparedness is key.
• Utilizing Free Resources: Many free resources are available, such as fire department consultations and training, which can greatly enhance business preparedness. Never underestimate the value of asking for help and using available resources to your advantage.
• Community and Collaboration: Small businesses are vital for community recovery after a disaster. Connecting with local resources and creating effective communication strategies can make a huge difference in disaster response and recovery efforts.
• Cultural Shift in Preparedness: There’s a noticeable lack of disaster preparedness among small businesses compared to large corporations. Developing disaster preparedness plans and strategies is critical for maintaining business continuity and ensuring resilience.

Be sure to connect with Erika and let her know you heard her on the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast via email at [email protected].

Be sure to get a copy of her book as well: https://amzn.to/3VkwpDO

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Welcome back to another episode of the #MeetCoolPeople Podcast! This episode is a special one for me as it marks a year since I launched this podcast as a birthday present to myself. Recording from my daughter's spare bedroom in Idaho, I reflected on this amazing journey and the incredible people I've had the pleasure to connect with and introduce to you.

One year, 55 episodes, and countless cool conversations later, I am thrilled to share a bit of the story behind #MeetCoolPeople. From Adam Hommey, my first guest who also happens to be a longtime friend, to a slew of fantastic individuals like Steve Gamlin, Lisa Manyon, and Bravis Brown, this podcast has truly been a tapestry of amazing human connections.

We discussed how much these interactions mean to me and how important it is for all of us to meet and connect with new people. My guests come from various backgrounds, but all share a common thread: their ability to bring something unique and valuable to the table.

Here are some key takeaways from this reflection episode:

• Commitment Matters: Most podcasts don't make it past five episodes. Commitment and showing up consistently are key to building something significant.
• Importance of Networking: The people we meet can lead us to opportunities we never imagined. Don’t underestimate the power of connecting with someone new.
• Sharing and Supporting: Giving value first and helping others succeed creates a ripple effect that ultimately brings value back to you.
• Personal Growth: Putting projects on hold until the right moment can make a huge difference in the quality and impact of your work.
• Celebrate Small Wins: Each connection and conversation is a victory. Recognize and appreciate them.

For anyone interested in connecting with some of the amazing guests mentioned in this episode or learning more about this journey, feel free to explore the previous episodes. Every conversation is packed with unique experiences and insights.

Want to see how my team and I can help you convert more of your casual connections into clients? Watch the free training at https://convertmoreclientsnow.com/

Thank you all for being a part of this journey. Keep meeting cool people and making those crucial connections!