In our latest Schmidt List episode, we chatted with Gray MacKenzie, co-founder of Zen Pilot. If you’re aiming to elevate your agency’s operations, this is an episode you don’t want to miss! Here are some highlights:


Top Insights from Gray MacKenzie:

1. Essential Resources:
- 🌐 [ZenPilot.com](https://zenpilot.com) for services and consultations.
- 🔗 [Gray’s LinkedIn](https://linkedin.com/in/graymackenzie) for updates.
- 📺 [YouTube Channel](https://youtube.com/zenpilot) with 100+ tutorial videos.

2. Proven Engagement Process:
Zen Pilot starts with a two-week blueprint process, including a team benchmark survey and a thorough assessment of your project management infrastructure.

3. Scalable Packages:
Post-blueprint, they offer scalable engagement packages starting at $4K per month, tailored to maximize your ROI.

4. Achieving ROI:
Agencies can see potential profitability improvements of up to half a million dollars in the first year, with 30-40% of this realized within the same period.

5. Emphasis on Cultural Change:
Gray underscores the importance of team buy-in and cultural alignment to make new processes stick.

6. Addressing Operational Challenges:
From capacity management to forecasting, Zen Pilot provides strategic solutions to common agency hurdles.

7. Confidence in Pricing:
Gray offers practical advice on positioning and confidently raising your rates to reflect your expertise.


🔗 Quick Links:
There is too much Schmidt to List!
Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.   

Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group  

Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
 
New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  
 
Follow us on all the things!
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/  
https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

I'm thrilled to share our latest Schmidt List episode with the incredible Matt DeWolf from MK Quinn Media! 🎤 We delve into the world of podcasting and its immense value for businesses in content creation and strategy.

In this episode, we explore:

• -Integrating podcasting into a comprehensive content strategy.
• -The need for consistency and a personal touch in your content.
• -The numerous benefits of podcasting, from community building to revenue generation.

💡 3 Key Takeaways*:

- Consistency Matters: Use an editorial calendar to maintain regular and reliable content.
- Be Human: Relax and connect genuinely with your audience.
- Start Small: Don’t overcomplicate the technical side; begin with the basics and grow from there.

Discover how Matt has shifted from video to podcasting, boosting engagement and creating new opportunities, especially within the B2B space.

Visit Matt:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattsdewolf/
https://www.mkquinnmedia.com/

There is too much Schmidt to List!
 
Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.   

Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group  

Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
 
New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  
 
Follow us on all the things!
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/  
https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList


Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

🔒 Welcome to another insightful episode of the Schmidt List Podcast! In this episode, host Kurt Schmidt sits down with Chris Cathers, co-founder of Octelient, a Twin Cities-based cybersecurity firm. They dive deep into the intricacies of balancing security and productivity in business environments. If you are a business owner, entrepreneur, or someone interested in information security, this podcast episode is packed with valuable insights and practical advice. 💼

Key Takeaways:

1. 1. Security in Business: Chris Cathers discusses the importance of having a robust security strategy for businesses of all sizes. Learn how to manage cyber risks effectively.
2. 2. Balancing Productivity and Security: Gain insights on how to strike the right balance between keeping your business secure and maintaining high productivity levels.
3. 3. Incident Response: Understand the importance of having a well-thought-out incident response plan and clear communication strategies within your organization.
4. 4. Common Security Mistakes: Identify and rectify common security mistakes that could put your business at risk.
5. 5. Role of AI in Security: Explore the growing role of Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning in cybersecurity.
6. 6. Virtual CISO and Security Advisors: Discover how hiring a Virtual Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) or a cybersecurity advisor can help small and medium-sized businesses.

Topics Covered:

- Fundamentals of information security
- Security for manufacturing, SaaS organizations, and law firms
- Why communication is crucial in security strategies
- Prevention vs. Detection in cybersecurity 
- Managed detection and response (MDR)
- Common misconfigurations and how to avoid them
- Importance of data backups and recovery plans
- Effective internal communication strategies during a security breach
- How to get started with security auditing
- Impact of AI on cybersecurity
- Proactive vs. Reactive security measures
- Importance of multifactor authentication (MFA)

Chris Cathers is the co-founder of Octelient, a cybersecurity firm dedicated to helping organizations that are often underserved in the market when it comes to security. With his extensive experience in the field, Chris provides valuable insights into how businesses can protect themselves from cyber threats while maintaining productivity.

Follow Chris Cathers and Octelient:
- LinkedIn: [LinkedIn Profile](https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriscathers/)
- Octelient Website: [Octelient.com](https://www.octelient.com)

There is too much Schmidt to List!
Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.   
Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group  
Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
 
New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  


Follow us on all the things! https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/  https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/  https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

🚀 Excited to share the latest episode of Schmidt List featuring the incredible Anais Wittrock-Roske! 📈 From her inspiring journey from nursing to UX design, the episode is packed with insights and inspiration for anyone looking to make a significant career transition.

📌 Key Takeaways:

• Embrace Career Shifts with Courage: Anais shares her journey from nursing to UX design, highlighting the importance of betting on yourself and diving in fully to new career paths.
  
  
• The Power of Storytelling in Design: Successful UX work isn't just about the technical skills—it's about being a compelling storyteller who can rally diverse teams behind a shared vision.
• Balancing Fundamentals and Innovation: Staying grounded in the basics while keeping an eye on emerging technologies can lead to more thoughtful and impactful design solutions.

Anais also talks about the valuable work done by UXP Minnesota, a fantastic resource for anyone in the UX field looking to grow and connect with like-minded professionals. 🌟

🔗 Tune in to the full episode to get inspired and learn how to drive your career forward with purpose and creativity. And don't forget to check out UXP Minnesota (uxpamn.org) if you're interested in leveling up your UX game.


There is too much Schmidt to List!
Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info.   

Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group  

Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
 
New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  
 
Follow us on all the things!
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
 https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/  
https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

In this episode, hosts Kurt Schmidt and Nate Tower dive into the strategic use of AI tools in the workplace. Nate Tower, President of Perrill, a digital marketing agency, explains how AI can boost productivity and support strategic projects while preserving human creativity.

Key Topics:
- Intentional AI Adoption: Integrating AI tools methodically and purposefully.
- Evaluating ROI: Ensuring AI implementation leads to meaningful work and time savings.
- AI in Digital Marketing: Benefits for SEO, ads management, social media, and content marketing.
- Regulated Industries: Handling AI use in finance and healthcare.
- Client Reactions: Varied client perspectives on AI use.

Why Listen?
- AI Automation: Automate tasks like alt text for images and meta descriptions, boosting efficiency.
- Focus on Creative Work: AI frees time for strategic and creative tasks.
- Internal AI Teams**: The role of internal teams in evaluating AI tools.
- Employee Perspectives: Stories of employees shifting from AI skepticism to AI use.

Episode Highlights:
- AI in MSAs: Handling AI use in contracts.
- Efficient AI Use: Streamlining processes with AI tools.
- Client Interactions: Different client reactions to AI.
- Professional Networks: Using LinkedIn and Slack for AI trend updates.
- Hands-on AI: Learning through personal experience with AI tools.

Tune to Schmidt List to learn how intentional AI can transform your organization through enhanced productivity and digital innovation!

---

Nate on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/nate-tower/
Perrill - https://www.perrill.com/

---

There is too much Schmidt to List!

Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info. 
 
Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group
 
Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader.  https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  

Follow us on all the things! 
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/
 https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

Explore branding complexities with Brad Flowers, co-founder of Bullhorn, on this compelling episode of the Schmidt List Podcast. Discover the transformative impact of digital innovation and AI on brand naming strategies.

Brad discusses the evolution from domain-driven naming to the creative freedoms introduced by new domain extensions and social media influences.

In this episode, we learn how generative AI reshapes the art of naming in branding, enhances traditional processes with innovative tools for generating names, and ensures legal compliance.

Highlights include:
- Evolving branding practices with digital and social media influences.
- Differences in naming strategies between B2B and B2C markets.
- Practical uses of AI in brand strategy and name generation.
- Insights into contemporary challenges in brand naming.

Subscribe for more insights, and hit the bell for notifications. Check the description for links to Brad's work and book, "The Naming Book."

🔗 Useful Links:
- Bullhorn Creative: bullhorncreative.com
- Buy "The Naming Book":https://amzn.to/3R2JiQN
📩 Contact Brad Flowers: [email protected]
Follow Bullhorn Creative: @BullhornCreative

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

Discover the secrets to becoming a Chief Marketing Officer (CMO) with insights from marketing expert Alan Gonsenhauser on an enlightening episode of the Schmidt List podcast. Hosted by Kurt Schmidt alongside Gonsenhauser, this episode uncovers the pivotal strategies necessary for ascending the marketing ranks to secure a coveted CMO position.

In this episode, you'll explore diverse topics, including:
- Leaping to a marketing career from varied backgrounds
- The essential skills needed for a CMO role
- The critical role of mentorship and broad networking in advancing one’s career
- Staying ahead of the curve with technological innovations, especially the integration of AI in marketing strategies

With his rich background in various CMO roles and an eclectic professional journey, Alan Gonsenhauser imparts priceless wisdom for those aiming to lead in the marketing realm. He emphasizes the importance of leveraging technology, like AI, and the value of diverse experiences across different business sectors, offering a wealth of knowledge for anyone in marketing.

Tune into the Schmidt List podcast for further expert discussions on marketing leadership, career progression, and the embrace of innovation within the marketing sphere.

For more on Alan Gonsenhauser's expertise, visit [DemandRevenue.com](http://demandrevenue.com).

There is too much Schmidt to List!

Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info. 
 
Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group
 
Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR  

Follow us on all the things!
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/
 https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

Join us on this enlightening episode of the Schmidt List Podcast, where host Kurt Schmidt engages in an engaging conversation with Tricia Dege, a leadership development expert and coach. This episode is a must-watch for professional women, mainly working mothers, seeking effective personal and professional growth strategies.

🔹 What's Covered:
- Tricia Dege shares her journey from being a chief financial officer in healthcare to discovering her passion for leadership development.
- Insights into working moms' unique challenges and how leadership coaching can help.
- The benefits of the cohort model in leadership training and its impact on professional growth.
- Practical tips on managing work-life balance, reducing workplace stress, and navigating career advancement as a working mother.
- Strategies for businesses to support the career development of working moms and promote female leadership.
- Discussion on combating imposter syndrome and building confidence among professional women.

🔹 Key Highlights:
- Discover how leadership development can transform your career and personal life.
- Learn about the importance of community and coaching for professional women.
- Understand the real meaning of workplace flexibility and how it can be effectively implemented.
- Gain insights on the importance of having allies and mentors in career advancement.
- Explore practical steps working mothers can take to balance their professional and personal responsibilities.

🔹 Who Should Watch:
- Working mothers looking for strategies to juggle career and family.
- HR professionals and business leaders want to understand how to support female employees better.
- Women in leadership roles seeking community and validation.
- Anyone interested in personal development, leadership coaching, and organizational culture.

Connect with Tricia:www.mommastermind.comwww.linkedin.com/in/tricia-mason-dege/www.linkedin.com/company/mom-mastermind/www.instagram.com/mom_mastermind/www.facebook.com/mommastermind 

There is too much Schmidt to List!

Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info. 
Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group
Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter
New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR 

Follow us on all the things!
https://twitter.com/Schmidt_Listhttps://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

Do you feel like networking is just a business card exchange game? Get ready to rethink your approach with this week's enlightening Schmidt List episode featuring the incredible Susan Rylance!

🔗 Episode Highlights:

Beyond Business Cards: Dive deep with Susan and Kurt as they dissect the conventional misnomers around networking. Discover how genuine connections outshine mere business transactions and learn how to transform your networking into meaningful events.- **Values in Action:

Susan shares her intentional networking strategy, which is aligned with her core company values — supporting women-owned organizations and ESOPs. Kurt underscores the vital importance of aligning actions with values, especially regarding empowerment, diversity, and inclusivity.- 

From Interaction to Impact:

Learn how Susan’s approach to meeting new people and nurturing relationships led to creating the successful "Women in Wine" group — a testament to the strength of focused networking based on shared interests and values.- 

Masterful Event Planning:** Take a page from Susan's playbook on organizing panel events that resonate with authenticity and purpose. Plus, find out how turning a profit from these events into charitable donations can amplify attendance and impact.- 

Empowering Women in Tech:

You will gain practical advice on navigating networking events in male-dominated industries, making them more accessible and comfortable for women, and leveraging male allies for support.


Connect with Susan!
https://www.linkedin.com/in/susanrylance/
https://intuitivetech.com/about-us/

There is too much Schmidt to List!

Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info. 

Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group

Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter

New Book! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D2C61THR
 
Follow us on all the things!

https://twitter.com/Schmidt_List
https://www.instagram.com/schmidtlistpodcast/
https://www.facebook.com/schmidtlist/ 
https://www.youtube.com/c/SchmidtList

Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.

In a captivating episode, hosts Kurt Schmidt and Katharine Kelly discuss the transformative power of understanding consumer insights for business strategy and sales success.

The hosts dive into the birth of Katharine’s business, Inquisitive, in the wake of the pandemic’s onset in 2021. With a focus on qualitative over quantitative research, Inquisitive aims to decode the reasons behind customer behavior to enrich businesses with deeper understanding.

They highlight the pitfalls companies face when they neglect the dynamic needs of their customer base. Particularly vulnerable are growing businesses that may lose touch with their market without thorough research, often relying on outdated or superficial data.

The intersection of sales and consumer research is crucial. Katharine underscores that while salespeople are important custodians of customer relationships, they must work in tandem with research teams to generate nuanced insights, mindful of inherent biases.

The episode reveals the significance of continuously gathering diverse customer feedback to fuel innovation and maintain trust. The hosts advocate for curiosity-driven enterprises that prioritize customers’ evolving perceptions as the key to remaining nimble and successful in a competitive market.

In closing, both Kurt and Katharine reflect positively on how the pandemic has altered their approaches to business, viewing these shifts as openings to capture human behavioral insights more effectively. Katharine shares her contact details for listeners interested in Inquisitive Insights.

This episode not only highlights the indispensability of connecting with customers on a deeper level but also serves as an instructional guide for those seeking to integrate these insights into their corporate culture for enhanced decision-making and business growth.

Find Katharine here!
Website: https://www.inquisitiveinsights.com/
Insta: https://www.instagram.com/inquisitive_insights/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katharinekelly/

There is too much Schmidt to List!
Check out https://www.kurtschmidt.me for more show info. 
Visit Kurt’s coaching site at https://schmidtconsulting.group
Subscribe to The Road Map Newsletter and unlock the secrets to achieving a harmonious work-life balance as a leader. https://bit.ly/RoadMapNewsletter



Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/schmidt-list-business-insights--2664825/support.