Unscripted Small Business

Unscripted Small Business

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Unscripted Small Business episodes

  • Cari McGee: How Personality Type Influences Marketing Choices & More

    In this conversation, Jeremy Rivera interviews Cari McGee, a seasoned Washington real estate agent & Broker, about her journey in the industry since 2004. They discuss the evolution of digital marketing, the importance of social media, and the power of storytelling in real estate. Cari shares her experiences with clients, emphasizing the emotional aspects of buying and selling homes.

    She also highlights her community engagement through the Rockstar Rewards Program and the significance of local connections. The conversation touches on the balance between technology and personal interaction in real estate, as well as the insights gained from nonverbal communication during client interactions. In this conversation, Cari McGee and Jeremy Rivera explore the intricate dynamics of real estate transactions, emphasizing the importance of understanding human cues and personality types.

    They discuss how these elements influence communication and marketing strategies, particularly in the context of digital marketing. The conversation also delves into the differences between residential and commercial real estate, the impact of seasonality on sales, and the significance of maintaining a proactive mindset in the industry. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the need for realtors to adapt their approaches based on client personalities and market conditions.

    • Cari has been a real estate agent since 2004.
    • Having a personal website gave Carrie an early advantage.
    • Facebook became Carrie's primary social media platform.
    • Storytelling is crucial in connecting with clients.
    • The Rockstar Rewards Program fosters community engagement.
    • Building local connections enhances business success.
    • Technology cannot replace the human touch in real estate.
    • Nonverbal communication is key in understanding clients.
    • Maintaining relationships with clients is essential for long-term success.
    • The cost of acquiring new clients is higher than retaining existing ones. Understanding human cues is crucial in real estate transactions.
    • Client interviews can provide valuable insights for marketing strategies.
    • Different personality types require tailored communication approaches.
    • Digital marketing should consider personality types for effective content.
    • Residential and commercial real estate attract different personality types.
    • Seasonality affects real estate sales; awareness is key.
    • Proactive mindset is essential for realtors during slow seasons.
    • Realtors must adapt their strategies based on client needs.
    • The human aspect of real estate cannot be overlooked.
    • Cari McGee emphasizes the importance of her website for connections.
    • 41 min
    • Mario Wissa: Mastering Communication Starts with How You Talk to Yourself

      In this conversation, Mario Wissa shares his journey towards mastering communication, emphasizing the importance of self-communication and empathy in building meaningful connections. He discusses how effective communication is essential in management and creating a culture of transparency and inclusivity in the workplace. Mario highlights that communication is a continuous process that involves understanding oneself and others, and he provides insights on how to foster a supportive environment for personal and professional growth.

       Epic Quotes From the Episode: 
      • "Once you find your it, there's no turning back."
      • "Show them better, and they will do better."
      • "We do not see how things are. We see them how we are. When we mindfully and intentionally share our imperfections and flaws, that actually brings us together and creates a more cohesive work environment."
      • "You have to be mindful of the "have-to's" you use on yourself to grow and explore your unlimited potentials."
      • Three Fundamental Types of Communication:

        There are three fundamental types of communication that everything else falls under. First is interpersonal communication – one-on-one interaction. Second is group communication, which involves three or more people and can include organizational communication, hierarchy communication, and strategic communication. The third represents more than 50% of Mario's research, intrapersonal communication – how we converse with ourselves. This is the bedrock of all other communication types. If we want to create meaningful connections with others, it starts with having a happy, relaxed, and fun connection with ourselves.

         

        Curious about your communication style type? Take the quiz here! 

         

        Other Resources Mentioned: 

        Brené Brown- The Power of Vulnerability

        The Power of Your Subconscious Mind

        Mario's book:  Empowering Communication Unleashed

        1 hr 5 min
      • Nicky Billou: Reframing Sales as Service

        In this conversation, Nicky Billou shares his inspiring journey from being an immigrant in Iran to becoming a successful entrepreneur and thought leader. He emphasizes the importance of freedom, human connection, and reframing sales as service. Nicky discusses the challenges of navigating the digital age while maintaining authentic relationships and outlines essential qualities for business success. He also defines thought leadership and its significance in the business world.

        Key Takeaways:
        • Nicky's journey from Iran highlights the value of freedom.
        • Entrepreneurs must champion freedom to thrive.
        • Sales should be reframed as service to help others.
        • Human connection is vital in business, especially post-COVID.
        • Digital marketing is noisy; authentic connections matter more.
        • Successful business owners must be decisive and committed.
        • Investing in personal development is crucial for success.
        • Thought leaders are known for their unique insights and contributions.
        • Building relationships creates opportunities for business growth.
        • Loving the process is essential to achieving desired results.
        •  Interested in working with Nicky? Click here! 
          Want to read even more thought-provoking material? Purchase one of his books here! 
          22 min
        • Max Emma: Investing in the Right Franchise
          In this conversation, Max Emma and Abbey Crane sit down and talk about Max's journey from immigrating to the United States to becoming a successful entrepreneur and CEO of multiple businesses in the franchising industry. They discuss the various challenges he has faced, including personal bankruptcy, and how these experiences shaped the way he runs his businesses today. Max also shares more information on the process of franchising, including the legalities involved and the need for thorough market research. If you have ever been interested in what owning a franchise could look like and mean for you as a business owner, you won't want to miss this episode!
           
          Inspiring Quotes From the Conversation:
           
          "Don't have your mind set on one thing because it's in your business plan or it's in your head. Be open because you don't know where the road is gonna lead you."
           
          "Success isn't just about the business – it's about creating a life you love while building something meaningful."
           
          "With a franchise, you're getting proven systems and processes."
           
          "I was always either dwelling on past mistakes or dreaming about the future until I realized I couldn't control either. What I can control is the present moment."
           
          "I don't want anybody to buy a job – this is an investment in your future."
           
          Work with Max here! 
          49 min
        • Rachel Smalling: From Motels to Cocktails in Cookeville

          In this engaging conversation, Rachel Smalling shares her journey as a small business owner in Cookeville, Tennessee. From launching the Lakeside Inn during the pandemic to expanding her portfolio with the Sportsman's Lodge and the 1854 Cocktail Bar and Lounge, Rachel discusses the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. She emphasizes the importance of community support, digital marketing, and maintaining quality in her offerings. Rachel also provides valuable insights for aspiring entrepreneurs, highlighting the significance of passion, market research, and building a strong network.

          • Rachel Smalling has multiple small businesses in Cookeville, TN.
          • The Lakeside Inn was purchased during the COVID pandemic.
          • Running a motel involves constant availability and mental challenges.
          • Building a reliable team is crucial for small business success.
          • The Sportsman's Lodge was a partnership with her partner's parents.
          • Digital marketing is essential but can be overwhelming for small businesses.
          • The 1854 Cocktail Bar was inspired by a trip to New York.
          • Quality ingredients are prioritized in the cocktail offerings.
          • There's companies like  Save Fry Oil that can help save costs in commercial kitchens.
          • Networking and community support are vital for entrepreneurs.
          • Aspiring business owners should focus on authenticity and market needs.
          • 36 min
          • Kelli Jones: Are You in Danger of Losing Your Brand?

            In this conversation, Abbey Crane interviews Kelli Jones, a trademark and contract lawyer, discussing the importance of trademarking for businesses, the differences between trademark and copyright law, and the impact of AI on legal practices. Kelli shares insights on the risks of not trademarking, the costs involved, and the necessity of having well-drafted contracts. The discussion emphasizes the need for legal protection in business to ensure growth and sustainability.

            Key Takeaways:

            • Trademarking is essential for brand recognition and protection.
            • An LLC does not provide ownership of a brand name.
            • The first to file a trademark has the strongest rights.
            • AI-generated content may not be legally owned by the user.
            • Contracts should address all potential scenarios to avoid disputes.
            • Trademark registration can take over a year to complete.
            • Legal advice is crucial for effective contract drafting.
            • Budgeting for legal needs is important for business planning.
            • Rebranding due to trademark issues can be costly.
            • Understanding the difference between trademarks and copyrights is vital for business owners.
            • Interested in working with Kelli or want access to her templates? Click here! 

              30 min
            • Doug Johnson: What Every Business Needs to Know About Their Taxes

              In this conversation, Doug Johnson, a CPA, shares his journey from corporate accounting to entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of accessibility and partnership in accounting. He discusses the challenges of starting his own firm, the significance of understanding business structures, and common misconceptions about tax deductions. Doug provides valuable insights on when to hire an accountant, strategies for optimizing taxes, and the importance of tracking expenses. He concludes with advice on personal taxes and the key considerations for scaling a business.

               
              Key Takeaways:
               
              • Small businesses often lack the processes of larger companies.
                • Accessibility is key in providing accounting services.
                  • Hiring an accountant makes sense when net profits reach around $100K.
                    • Many believe they need an LLC to deduct expenses, which is a misconception.
                      • Buying items solely to reduce tax bills is not a sound strategy.
                        • Estimated tax payments help avoid tax sticker shock.
                          • Keeping receipts is crucial for substantiating deductions.
                            • Taking risks is essential for building the life you want.
                            •  

                              Interested in working with Doug? Check out his website here! 

                              39 min
                            • Sal Tirabassi: Unlocking the Power of Fractional CFO Services

                              In this conversation, Jeremy Rivera and Sal Tirabassi discuss the role of fractional CFO services in modern businesses, particularly in the context of remote work and digital transformation. Sal explains how fractional CFOs provide high-quality financial strategy services to emerging businesses, emphasizing the flexibility and cost-effectiveness of these services. They explore the importance of analytics in CFO work, the challenges faced by businesses in financial distress, and the impact of digital marketing and AI tools on financial operations. Sal shares insights on the priorities for new clients and the satisfaction derived from delivering actionable insights that transform client perspectives.

                              Notable Quotes From the Conversation:

                              "Remote work has changed the landscape. Now businesses aren't limited by geography - they can access world-class financial expertise from anywhere."

                              "The most exciting part is seeing clients go through that 'aha moment.' When data validates their business instincts, it completely transforms how they make decisions."

                              "Building trust with clients isn't just about numbers - it's about delivering insights that change their perspective and elevate their business."

                              "In emerging businesses, we have the opportunity to shape the entire financial story. We can help founders turn their vision into measurable success."

                              "AI and machine learning aren't just tools - they're giving smaller businesses access to the same sophisticated financial analysis that was once only available to large corporations."

                              Learn More From Sal:

                              Find him on LinkedIn under Sal Tirabassi, visit his website at CFO Pro Analytics.com, or read his technical articles on Substack at salvatoretirabassi.substack.com

                              43 min
                            • John Cousins: How to Use AI and Automation to Your Benefit

                              In this conversation, John Cousins shares his journey from being an engineer to becoming a successful entrepreneur and investor. He discusses the challenges of partnerships, the impact of AI on the future of work, and the potential for automation to reshape industries. The conversation emphasizes the importance of adapting to change and leveraging technology to enhance productivity and creativity. He discusses the importance of pivoting in business, the necessity of continuous learning and adaptability in a rapidly changing world, and the significance of financial literacy through accessible education. John emphasizes the value of side hustles and the need to embrace failure as a part of the learning process, encouraging listeners to take action and refine their ideas through experimentation.

                               Top Quotes from the Episode:

                              • "There's really two things I think that businesses do. Either they solve some pain that we have , or they bring us some sort of delight, some sort of joy. And in both those ways, I think that AI can help us."

                              • "In entrepreneurship, it's persevere or pivot."

                              • "I think everybody should have a couple of side hustles, a couple of side businesses that they're working on, some sort of plan B- like an inflatable sail boat in case you lose your main source of income."

                              • " Find out how you learn, so that when the time comes, if you ever have to quickly scramble and learn something new, you have the habits and the skill sets to be able to do that."

                              • " Thinking about our lives is kind of like a business. Business skills, just some business skills are good for everybody."

                              • "Try something and then be ready for feedback."

                              • "Courage is not being fearless, but acting in the face of fear."

                              • "Perfection is the enemy of good enough."

                              • "If you're not embarrassed by your product launch, you've waited too long to launch."

                              • "You have to fail to succeed."

                                Download John's book on the topic of focus here! 

                                Register for MBA A$AP here!

                                1 hr 22 min
                              • Dr. Andy Neillie - Manager vs. Leader: Which One Are You REALLY?
                                In this conversation, Abbey Crane and Dr. Andy Neillie explore the key differences between managers and leaders. Dr. Andy shares insights from his journey into leadership, emphasizing the importance of passion, character, and competence. They discuss the challenges new managers face, especially in today’s evolving workplace, and how leaders must adapt to retain top talent.
                                 
                                Dr. Andy introduces his framework of the four leadership necessities—conviction, competence, character, and covenant—and highlights how communication and personal connections are crucial in remote work environments. They also touch on balancing outcomes with team needs, investing in leadership development, and the importance of self-care for leaders. 
                                 
                                Resources Mentioned:

                                The Golden Principles: Life Lessons from Man's Best Friend by Dr. Andy Neillie

                                Dr. Andy's 20 Leadership Books for 2024

                                The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership by John Maxwell

                                The Discipline of Market Leaders by Michael Treacy and and Fred Wiersema

                                Practicing the Way by John Mark Comer

                                Culture Making: Recovering Our Creative Calling by Andy Crouch

                                Click here to work with Dr. Andy!

                                49 min

                              About Unscripted Small Business

                              From the publisher's feed

                              Our Unscripted Collaborative hosts Keith Bresee, Zaneta Chuniq, Keiron Bailey & 17 year SEO industry expert Jeremy Rivera are having unscripted interviews small business owners, founders and…