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In this conversation, Rob Pene and Mark Santiago explore the transformative journey of men dealing with personal crises, particularly around relationships and self-identity. Mark shares insights from his Empowered Man program, emphasizing the importance of ownership, emotional intelligence, and the journey from victimhood to empowerment. They discuss the significance of personal growth, the challenges of navigating infidelity, and the necessity of understanding one's identity as a son before becoming a man. 

The conversation highlights the journey of healing and the potential for new, healthy relationships after personal transformation. In this conversation, Mark shares his journey of breaking free from toxic relationship patterns and embracing a healthier, more peaceful life. He discusses the importance of self-awareness in attracting the right partners and the challenges he faced during personal crises. Mark emphasizes the significance of taking ownership of one's journey and the role of community in men's empowerment. He also highlights the mission of Empowered Man, a platform dedicated to helping men heal and grow through practical tools and support.

Takeaways

✅ The last 12 months have been a journey of pruning.

✅ Pruning is essential for personal growth.

✅ Ownership is key to transformation.

✅ Men often feel guilty but need to take ownership.

✅ Healing involves uncovering the true self.

✅ Men need to articulate their emotions.

✅ Many men live quiet lives of desperation.

✅ You can't be a man until you become a son first.

✅ Successful relationships come from personal growth.

✅ God can use anyone for His purpose. Cycle through the same woman with a different face.

✅ Take ownership of what attracted toxic partners.

✅ Healthy relationships feel different and peaceful.

✅ Many are scared of peace and functionality.

✅ False narratives can cloud our reality.

✅ Navigating personal crises reveals our true selves.

✅ Taking back ownership is crucial for growth.

✅ Empowered Man helps men heal from trauma.

✅ Creating community support is essential for men.

✅ There's a significant need for men's empowerment.

Sound Bites

"Everything is my responsibility."

"You have to own your shit."

"Men live quiet lives of desperation."

"God could use anybody or anything."

"They didn't attract the same person."

"It's the same toxic traits."

"I needed to take back my kingdom."

Connect with Mark Santiago

• http://empoweredman.co
• https://www.youtube.com/@empoweredman

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In this engaging conversation, Rob Pene and David Keesee reconnect over their shared experiences in baseball and the transition to successful careers in sales. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the challenges of identity after sports, and the transformative power of coaching. 

The dialogue emphasizes the significance of community, resilience, and the mindset required for success in sales. They reflect on the differences in youth sports today compared to their own experiences and share valuable life lessons about communication, humility, and the importance of being unattached to outcomes.

Takeaways

✅ The transition from sports to sales can be challenging but rewarding.

✅ Mentorship plays a crucial role in personal and professional development.

✅ Sales is similar to baseball in terms of skill sets and competition.

✅ Transformation in mindset is essential for success in sales.

✅ Confrontation can be a form of love and support.

✅ Living with humility and non-attachment leads to personal growth.

✅ Effective communication requires understanding the listener's perspective.

✅ Youth sports have changed, with a focus on performance over resilience.

✅ Building a community is vital for personal and professional success.

✅ In-person learning and mentorship are irreplaceable experiences.

Sound Bites

"Confrontation is love."

"It's not about you."

"You can't own anything."

Chapters

00:00 Reconnecting Through Baseball Memories

05:37 Coaching and Mentorship in Sales

11:21 Building a Pipeline for Future Generations

17:05 Transformation in Sales and Business

22:34 Neutrality and Unattachment in Sales Success

27:21 Commitment vs. Attachment

32:57 Lessons from Mentorship

37:46 The Concept of Ownership

43:11 Reflections on Youth Sports

Connect with David Keesee

https://konect.to/davidkeesee

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In this conversation, Deirdre Tshien shares her entrepreneurial journey, discussing the evolution of her businesses, the challenges of maintaining product-market fit, and the creation of CapShow, an AI-powered tool for content creators. She emphasizes the importance of focus, collaboration, and customer service in navigating the competitive landscape of technology and entrepreneurship.

Key Takeaways

▶️ Product-market fit is an ongoing process, not a one-time achievement.

▶️ First mover advantage can lead to rapid growth but requires constant adaptation.

▶️ Transitioning from hospitality to tech entrepreneurship involves significant learning.

▶️ CapShow was born from the need to streamline content creation for podcasters.

▶️ Building a unique value proposition is crucial in a competitive market.

▶️ Collaboration with industry experts enhances product offerings and marketing strategies.

▶️ Customer service is a core value, ensuring users feel supported.

▶️ Navigating tech debt is a common challenge for startups.

▶️ Future projects depend on clear market strategies and audience identification.

▶️ Organic growth strategies can be effective, especially through partnerships.

Sound Bites

➥ "Product market fit isn't a one and done."

➥ "We were the first in the podcasting space."

➥ "We believe a lot in collaborations."

➥ "I always have really great ideas."

➥ "We never want to keep people in the lurch."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Deirdre Shen and Her Journey

02:51 The Evolution of Product-Market Fit

05:50 From Hospitality to Entrepreneurship

09:07 The Birth of CapShow and First Mover Advantage

12:00 Navigating Competition and Market Changes

14:51 Building a Unique Value Proposition

18:00 Growth Strategies and Customer Engagement

21:06 Challenges in Software Development

23:49 Future Aspirations and Customer Service

Connect with Diedre Tshien

https://www.capsho.com
https://www.instagram.com/capshohq
https://www.instagram.com/deirdretshien

Episode Sponsor

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In this engaging conversation, Rob Pene interviews Dr. Danny Brassell, a renowned educator and speaker, who shares his journey from overcoming personal challenges to becoming a motivational speaker and author. Dr. Brassell discusses the importance of adaptability, the significance of reading, and innovative strategies for parents to foster a love for reading in their children. He emphasizes the power of storytelling and the impact of positive role models in education.

Takeaways

▶️ Dr. Brassell's journey is marked by numerous pivots and adaptations.

▶️ Overcoming stuttering was a significant challenge that shaped his communication skills.

▶️ His college experience was transformative, leading him to unexpected opportunities.

▶️ Writing books about reading strategies became a passion for Dr. Brassell.

▶️ Engaging children in reading requires innovative and relatable approaches.

▶️ Parents play a crucial role in fostering a love for reading in their children.

▶️ The importance of reading aloud to children cannot be overstated.

▶️ Dr. Brassell's program emphasizes the significance of daily reading habits.

▶️ Success in reading is linked to the amount of time spent reading.

▶️ Dr. Brassell encourages parents to model positive reading habits for their kids.

Quotables

⭐ "Don't let anybody ever tell you what you cannot do."

⭐ "Failure is not an option."

⭐ "I want them to choose to do it because they love it."

⭐ "The average was just over 20 minutes a day."

⭐ "I always tell this to parents."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Danny Brassell

02:00 The Journey of Pivots and Adaptation

07:50 Overcoming Challenges: Stuttering and Communication

10:00 College Years and Early Influences

11:31 The Birth of a Writer: First Book and Motivation

13:58 Innovative Approaches to Reading Enrichment

24:03 Resources for Parents and Conclusion

Connect with Dr. Danny Brassell

http://freegiftfromdanny.com

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In this conversation, Rob Pene interviews marketing expert Jen Esparza, who shares her insights on marketing strategies for nonprofits and small businesses. They discuss the importance of community engagement, crafting clear messages, and the challenges faced by nonprofits in turning readers into donors. 

Jen emphasizes the need for patience and foundational planning in both nonprofit and small business ventures, as well as the role of AI in enhancing marketing efforts.

Key Takeaways

▶️ Procrastination can hinder personal and professional growth.

▶️ Nonprofits face unique challenges in marketing compared to small businesses.

▶️ Crafting a clear and compelling message is crucial for nonprofits.

▶️ Email marketing is more effective than social media for nonprofits.

▶️ Community engagement can significantly boost a nonprofit's visibility.

▶️ Understanding community needs is essential before launching a nonprofit.

▶️ Patience and planning are vital for long-term success in business.

▶️ Validating business ideas can save time and resources.

▶️ A solid marketing strategy is necessary for growth.

▶️ AI can be a valuable tool for brainstorming and refining ideas.

Sound Bites

- "Get out of my own way."

- "Double the marketing to do."

- "Refining their message is key."

- "Find the gaps in the community."

- "Patience is a virtue."

Contact Jen

https://thejenadvantage.com

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Marketing Insights

01:13 Personal Growth and Procrastination

02:34 Marketing Basics for Nonprofits

03:32 Challenges in Nonprofit Marketing

05:04 Turning Readers into Donors

06:22 Crafting a Clear Message

08:40 Effective Marketing Channels for Nonprofits

10:53 Community Engagement Strategies

14:49 The Importance of Community Needs Assessment

17:15 Foundational Steps for Small Businesses

18:52 Validating Business Ideas

19:59 The Role of Strategy in Business Success

21:43 Client Relationships and Referrals

23:51 The Impact of AI on Marketing

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In this conversation, Rob Pene and Kelly Schuknecht discuss the evolution of fractional marketing, the importance of thought leadership, and the challenges faced by women in the workplace. 

Kelly shares her journey of transitioning from a corporate job to starting her own marketing business, emphasizing the significance of quick decision-making and networking. They explore the services offered by Kelly's company, including thought leadership marketing and outsourced marketing, and the impact of her podcast aimed at empowering women authors. 

The discussion concludes with advice for those navigating career transitions and the importance of community support.

Takeaways

• Fractional marketing has become a relevant term in recent years.
• Building a marketing business requires understanding client needs.
• Thought leadership is essential for entrepreneurs and CEOs.
• Networking plays a crucial role in finding clients.
• Quick decision-making can help overcome career challenges.
• Women in leadership often lack visibility and support.
• Podcasts can be a powerful tool for refining messaging.
• Community support is vital for women authors.
• Outsourced marketing can provide a full team for businesses.
• Clarity in goals helps in making swift business decisions.

Sound Bites

• "We become this extension of their team."
• "I have a heart for just women in the workplace."
• "I want this to be a place for women."
• "I started working on my business immediately."
• "I had a two-year time period of knowing it was coming."
• "I just started making those decisions quickly."

Connect with Kelly

Author Power Circle:
https://kellyschuknecht.com/author-power-circle/

Websites:
www.kellyschuknecht.com
www.twomilehighmarketing.com
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyschuknecht

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In this conversation, Rob Pene interviews Cindy Baker, an expert in coaching professionals with ADHD. Cindy shares her personal journey from teaching to coaching, her insights on ADHD, and effective strategies for time management and productivity. 

The discussion emphasizes the importance of community support, overcoming procrastination, and the value of taking small, actionable steps towards success.

Takeaways

• Cindy Baker transitioned from teaching to coaching after 19 years in education.
• ADHD can manifest differently in adults, especially women.
• Time management strategies need to be tailored for ADHD individuals.
• Focus is more important than managing time for those with ADHD.
• Procrastination can be tackled by taking immediate action.
• Community support is crucial for individuals with ADHD.
• Breaking tasks into micro steps can lead to success.
• Understanding one's own brain wiring can lead to better productivity.
• Cindy offers a free course to help beat procrastination.
• Positive mindset and preparation are key to productivity. 

Sound Bites

• "Your mess can become your message."
• "ADHD is not necessarily a bad thing."
• "Managing focus is key for ADHD individuals."
• "Break it down into the tiniest little steps."
• "Time doesn't come back once it's gone."

Want to Connect with Cindy?

📌 Join the ADHD Entrepreneurs Community: Productivity for Profits Facebook Group
📌 Follow Cindy on Instagram: @cbc_cindybakercoaching
📌 Work with Cindy: CindyBakerCoaching.com
📌 Grab the Free Procrastination Course: WaitNoMore.net

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In this episode of "Nice to Meet You," host Rob Pene interviews Max Emma, a successful business owner and franchise expert. Max shares his journey from corporate accounting at Qualcomm to becoming the CEO of three franchise-related companies.

Key highlights from the episode:

• Max's background: Originally from the former Soviet Union, he came to the US 32 years ago. After working at Qualcomm, he left corporate life in 2002 to start his own businesses.
• Business evolution: He experienced both success and failure, including a construction business that went bankrupt during the 2008-09 housing crisis. This setback led him to start a bookkeeping business with his wife.

Current ventures:

1. A bookkeeping services company serving 100+ franchise brands nationwide
2. A bookkeeping franchise business (recently sold their 13th franchise)
3. A franchise brokerage helping people find and invest in franchises

Franchise insights:

• Max emphasizes the importance of persistence and consistency in business growth
• He discusses the advantages of franchising over starting from scratch (proven models, established systems)
• Current hot franchise sectors include pet services, senior care, and children's services
• Investment requirements vary widely ($35,000 to $1.5+ million)

Business philosophy:

• Believes in persistent follow-up until explicitly told to stop
• Emphasizes the importance of in-person connections
• Views past failures as stepping stones to future success

The episode provides valuable insights for anyone interested in franchising or business ownership. Max can be reached through his website https://franchisewithmax.com, which offers information about his three business verticals: franchise brokerage, bookkeeping franchise opportunities, and bookkeeping services.

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In this episode of "The Behind the Scene Stories of Busy Professionals," host Rob Pene interviews Evan Kuterbach, co-founder of Canyon Pickleball. The conversation explores Evan's journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, centered around his passion for pickleball and the outdoors.

Evan shares how he discovered pickleball during a difficult period after moving from Colorado to Florida and becoming a new parent. The sport helped him overcome depression by combining his lifelong love of outdoor activity with a welcoming community. What started as a personal interest evolved into a business opportunity when he met his future co-founder through a marketing mastermind group.

Despite having no manufacturing experience, Evan and his co-founder launched Canyon Pickleball in July 2023. The brand distinguishes itself through its National Parks-inspired designs and commitment to sustainability, including eco-friendly packaging and donations to the National Parks. While the business is still young, it has reached operational sustainability within eight months.

Key insights from the episode include:

• The importance of finding the right business partner based on aligned interests rather than pre-existing friendship
• How childhood creativity and willingness to fail can translate into entrepreneurial success
• The value of being vulnerable and sharing ideas to find like-minded collaborators
• The benefits of starting small and learning through trial and error

Looking ahead, Canyon Pickleball aims to expand beyond paddles into a broader outdoor lifestyle brand, with plans for new products including athletic wear and accessories. Evan also maintains a newsletter called "The Honest Hustle" where he shares insights about building purposeful businesses.

The episode concludes with both host and guest emphasizing the importance of community and content creation in encouraging aspiring entrepreneurs to pursue their ideas.

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In this episode of "Behind the Scenes Stories of Busy Professionals," host Rob Pene interviews Kathryn Ficarra, an expert in corporate executive leadership and cultural transformation. Kathryn shares her powerful personal journey and how it led to her current work helping executives develop authentic presence.

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Connect with Kathryn

https://www.instagram.com/thecgroupstudio
https://www.instagram.com/kathrynf__
https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathrynficarra
https://www.youtube.com/@thecgroupstudio

***

Kathryn reveals how losing her mother to cancer at age 19 led to unresolved trauma that she initially tried to escape by moving to Seattle. Despite achieving significant corporate success over 20 years, including executive positions in media, gaming, and e-commerce, she found herself engaging in self-sabotaging behaviors and feeling internally misaligned despite having "everything."

The turning point came when someone gave her the book "Breaking the Habit of Being Yourself." This sparked a period of deep introspective work that helped her understand how beliefs shape behaviors and how to break negative patterns. 

She developed the Impact Framework, a 13-week program that helps executives cultivate authentic presence through identity alignment, mindset mastery, persona identification, authentic communication, and transformative growth.

Key insights from the conversation include:

• The importance of understanding your personal paradigm and belief systems
• How to recognize and interrupt negative thought patterns using the "not today" technique
• The difference between operating from a "power state" versus a "primal state"
• The concept that "your presence is your power"
• How to build awareness of triggers and transform limiting beliefs
• The idea that you're "not excavating, but revealing" your authentic self

Kathryn is currently writing a book called "Your Presence is Your Power" and runs The C Group Studio, named after her children Chase and Camden. She can be found on LinkedIn, Instagram, YouTube, and Facebook, where she continues to share her message about personal transformation and authentic leadership.