By Aaron Walker & Kevin Wallenbeck
A podcast for growth-minded Christian business men who desire momentum and accountability in their business, their family, their finances, their faith, and their personal wellness. Each week Big A
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The podcast currently has 105 episodes available.
Should you turn your hobby into a business? Jim Cockrum joins us on today's episode to give us a fresh, Biblical perspective on whether or not you should follow your passion–and his countercultural answer will probably surprise you!
Jim is convinced that the key to business success is explicitly much easier than you think, although it might ruffle some feathers. Hint: It's not about whether your passionate about your business or not.
Key Takeaways:
Join us for an enlightening session as we explore a countercultural way of doing business with our guest, Jim Cockrum, who wrote Silent Sales Machine 9.0. He provides a wealth of wisdom on navigating this transformative journey from hobby to business (or not?) in order to be successful.
Our conversation boldly questions conventional ways of creating a business idea, proposing that true fulfillment in business emerges from a much different angle than the world comes at it. Through compelling stories and real-life examples, we share how passion often follows one key idea which Jim reveals in today's episode.
In the final chapter of our discussion, we challenge you to rethink the role of passion in your professional lives.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Jim Cockrum:
Jim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimcockrum/
Jim's Free Business Owners Community: https://silentjim.com
Silent Sales Machine 9.0 Book: https://www.amazon.com/Silent-Sales-Machine-9-0-Cockrum/dp/0692516603
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.com
The ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletter
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
"Most people are looking to cut–how can we make just a little money? It's all about the bottom line." Are you running yourself into the ground every day to make things work? Most business guys are working overtime to make the extra dollar and 10x their financial situation by the end of the year. Some are overworked just to make ends meet.
How can these guys 10x their lives? How did Big A succeed in having several successful businesses by the age of 50? Today's episode is all about making the most of your life–and how to do it when you're in the trenches.
Key Takeaways:
These counterintuitive strategies aren’t just business tips; they’re life-changing methods to enhance personal satisfaction and family life. We challenge the conventional 10X growth mindset, urging you to aim for holistic improvement as a businessman, husband, and father.
By prioritizing what truly matters and minimizing distractions, you can achieve a deeper impact.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.com
The ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletter
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
"You’re okay to go bankrupt for the sake of helping somebody?" For Tony, our mystery operations manager, the answer is, unfortunately, yes.
Tony is waging war against himself in this episode of THE FORGE. His employees aren't showing up for work, his "compassion" is running the show, and his customers are suffering for it.
How can he fire people he wants to help? Isn't compassion worth the cost of quality control? Him and the business he works for is in a cycle of indecision and conflict avoidance because Tony desires to help guys in rough situations and provide them with a job... but what happens when these guys don't show up?
Key Takeaways:
We tackle the complexities of aligning personal preferences and skills with job responsibilities, especially within family-owned businesses. This episode is packed with practical advice on decision-making, personal growth, and the power of open communication, all aiming to help you overcome procrastination and conflict avoidance to achieve a fulfilling and balanced life.
Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/community
Connect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.
Connect with Bret Barnhart:
Barnhartexcavating.com
Bret’s Calendar Link
Bret’s Linkedin
Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge
Do you have what it takes to be a solopreneur? Distractions in this day and age can derail your progress more than ever, and if you aren't practicing the right traits, you'll soon get burned out. So how do you do maintain a successful business as a solopreneur?
If you've ever wondered what is truly necessary to make it successfully as a solopreneur, take it from two guys who scaled their companies from the ground up to multi-million dollar companies: these four must-have traits need to be at the top of your list.
Key Takeaways:
Drawing wisdom from our mastermind group, we highlight the value of setting boundaries and prioritizing family time. Sometimes, stepping back to take care of your health and relationships can actually propel you forward faster. We'll also show you how a strong support network can keep you on track and help maintain your focus.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://isibrotherhood.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://isibrotherhood.com
The ISI Newsletter: https://www.isibrotherhood.com/newsletter
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
“If you want time and freedom, you have to lead others to get there.” Seth Buechley joins us to define the crux of business failure and crappy leadership. There is truth that you can faster alone, but you can go farther together.
Today we talk about practical positives to delegating and how to delegate WELL. We need to create systems and processes, define specific Key Result Areas for our employees, and cultivate a mindset that serves the success of everyone. We cannot scale without empowering our people well.
Discover how effective delegation can prevent burnout and transform your business from merely surviving to truly thriving. For solopreneurs and small business owners, we address the tricky balance between managing revenue growth and navigating the risks of hiring and delegation, sharing personal strategies and anecdotes for transitioning to effective leadership and management.
Finally, we delve into building a business that operates independently of its founder. Drawing on principles from John Warrillow's "Built to Sell," we discuss structuring your business with the potential for future sale in mind, even if selling isn't your immediate goal.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Seth Buechley:
Seth's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-buechley/
Seth Buechley is a serial entrepreneur and business founder who has achieved several multi-million dollar exits. He is the host of the Business Done Right Podcast, which seeks to help faith-driven entrepreneurs build valuable businesses. His book, "Ambition: Leading with Gratitude," was written as a leadership manifesto to help driven people understand why they struggle to find satisfaction and what they can do about it.
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
Do you know how to celebrate? On our 100th episode, we share transformative stories about significant financial windfalls that taught us the power of celebration. Discover why celebrating your wins, big or small, can skyrocket your motivation and satisfaction in both business and personal life.
Raised to remain humble and private, we initially found it challenging to share our successes openly. However, joining communities like Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) helped us embrace a culture of celebration and transparency that spurred on us to true success.
Key Takeaways:
We delve into how supportive environments can uplift each other, making it easier to share even smaller, meaningful victories. Reflecting on cultural norms and personal upbringing, we discuss how shifting our mindset about celebration can positively impact our overall happiness.
From repairing strained relationships to achieving business milestones, celebrating wins isn't just about the big moments. We explore practical ways to commemorate your successes and promote a generous attitude of giving back through personal gestures and charitable contributions.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
"You've been selling to the kitchen table, and you need to be selling to the board room." When the real estate market came to a grinding halt during the COVID-19 pandemic, Bobby, a seasoned real estate developer, faced unprecedented challenges. Listen to his raw and emotional recount of navigating through financial turmoil, making tough decisions like laying off a lot of his staff, and the immense weight of responsibility he felt for his employees and their families.
Bobby's story isn't just about a business struggle; it's a heartfelt journey of resilience and leadership in the face of adversity.
Key Takeaways:
Despite exhausting initial investor funds, Bobby underscores the importance of maintaining momentum and refining strategies to attract private equity investors. He shares the significance of building a robust investor base and the challenges of transitioning from small to larger investors, all while staying true to mission-driven goals.
Get valuable insights on the delicate balance between mission and profit, the art of crafting a compelling elevator pitch, and the nuances of investor relations in this episode of THE FORGE.
Join the Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
Connect with Anthony Witt: witthouse.com or anthonywitt.com
Anthony Witt is a professional licensed counselor and a business owner with a deep understanding of how entrepreneurship impacts personal health and those around them. Having bought, sold, and started multiple businesses, he has gained valuable
experience at the intersection of personal health and business. His belief that "a healthy business owner creates a healthy business" underscores his approach to helping entrepreneurs thrive.
Connect with Bret Barnhart:
Barnhartexcavating.com
Bret’s Calendar Link
Bret’s Linkedin
Bret Barnhart, Jr. is the fourth generation in his family to start his own excavation company. He began Bret Barnhart Excavating (BBE) in 2002 with $1,500, a single backhoe and truck, and a trailer. Since then, BBE has grown to an entire fleet of heavy machinery and trucks, averages just under 20 employees, and grosses $4mil annually. Being specialized, along with having a personal mentor and joining a mastermind, has helped shape not only Bret's company but also himself as well. Bret and his wife Crystal have been married for 16 years and have two children, Cole and Adelyn.
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
What Do I Want Challenge: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/whatdoiwantchallenge
"Work to find the truth." Do you ever harbor bitterness or apathy toward your wife for not giving support in building your business? Is she often more afraid for the future when discussing business ventures?
Big A and Wally recount times in both their lives when their wives didn't want anything to do with the business–and how they got through those seasons. Big A confesses a frustrating disagreement with Robin that left him unable to focus on his business, while Wally explains how Sonia's last-minute stress before his travels affected his crucial client meetings.
We dig deep into how personal growth and faith journeys shape our experiences, highlighting the importance of acknowledging the unseen efforts of our spouses. Whether your partner is a homemaker or a career individual, their role is indispensable.
Key Takeaways:
Join us as we turn the tables and reveal how your marital strife may be the hidden culprit behind those off days at work. We underscore why cultivating a strong, supportive relationship at home could be the ultimate productivity hack for your business success.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
"If you’re facing financial problems, relationship problems, starting your business… what do you do to simplify your life?" Charlie Cichetti shares his transformative, chaotic journey from a tech start up to a successful business exit. How did he simplify his life from starting his business to selling it?
Key Takeaways:
Charlie opens up about his battles with cash flow issues and toxic partnerships, sharing how mentors and the Iron Sharpens Iron (ISI) community provided crucial support. He teaches us about resilience and the power of staying focused on our unique paths amidst FOMO.
Our discussion wraps up with insights into creating financial security, setting clear boundaries, and building a leadership team that shares your company's vision. Don't miss this episode filled with practical strategies for achieving entrepreneurial success and personal growth!
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Charlie Cichetti:
Green Building Matters Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-green-building-matters-podcast-with-charlie-cichetti/id1346854349
Charlie's Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/charliecichetti/
Charlie advocates for LEED and the green building movement to thousands of people monthly as they tune in to listen to his weekly podcast, Green Building Matters. Charlie Cichetti is truly a green social entrepreneur who is motivated by elevating people and the industry to be the best they can be!
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
"It’s not too late going forward, just focus on what’s ahead of you, not what’s behind you." Guys think about four things: sex, finances, time, and relationships. We're skipping over sex today to discuss HOW to think about the other 3 on the list to become a successful man who adds significance and value to the world around him.
Hear firsthand how regular conversations and planning with your wife can reduce stress, foster harmony, and reveal unexpected opportunities for more time for what matters.
Key Takeaways:
We reflect on the early, challenging days of starting a business, and the powerful role of faith and community support. A heartwarming story of family prayer and an anonymous act of generosity highlights the importance of prioritizing relationships and time. We delve into strategies for balancing personal time, nurturing relationships, and achieving both success and significance. Tune in for actionable insights and join our ISI Iron Sharpens Iron community for ongoing support and engagement.
Iron Sharpens Iron Community: https://go.viewfromthetop.com/community
LinkedIn Group: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/group
Connect with Big A and Wally:
View From The Top Website: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/
The Climb Newsletter: https://www.viewfromthetop.com/climb
Big A’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaronwalkerviewfromthetop/
Wally’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevinwallenbeck/
Episode 50: Is a Sexless Marriage Really a Marriage?: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/view-from-the-top/id1649249589?i=1000628482116
The podcast currently has 105 episodes available.
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