Bulletproof Business Podcast
Welcome to the Bulletproof Startups Podcast, where we help business owners and CEOs become conscious leaders and build a power team so they can let go, get strategic, and know they are adding the most value possible to their company every single day. I am your host, Simone Janssen, and this podcast is about one thing only, becoming the real CEO of your business by building leveraged teams. You've built a great product or service, but although you have a team you are still in everything. Your time is spent in the weeds, and you are leaving money and opportunity on the table because you don't know how to establish clarity, shift responsibility, and create accountability. If you want to know how to change that, you are in the right place. All this information is 100% free, so please subscribe to and review our podcast.
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E124 - Broken Promises, Boiling Points, And Burnout: What Your Team’s Silence Is Really Telling You
06/23/2025
E124 - Broken Promises, Boiling Points, And Burnout: What Your Team’s Silence Is Really Telling You
In this episode, we pull back the curtain on why so many small business teams are disengaged—and what your leadership habits may have to do with it. Disengagement isn’t about lazy employees. It’s usually about broken systems, unclear expectations, and leaders who are running on fumes. We explore the real reasons teams stop trying, why yelling is a symptom—not the problem—and how to rebuild trust with systems that do the heavy lifting. If your team has gone quiet… this is the episode that explains why. You’ll also hear: Why toxic culture is the #1 reason employees quit (and it’s not what you think) The hidden cost of yelling, snapping, or reactive leadership How small, unspoken leadership promises quietly break trust and performance The 5 C’s framework that makes accountability feel like support—not pressure How AI-driven systems can make trust, clarity, and consistency automatic Ready to lead without chaos? Join us for our workshop "From Chaos to Control—Build a Business That Runs Without You The Plug-and-Play AI System That Frees You to Lead and Grow", June 25 5pm EST
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E123 - Why HR Is A Must Have And Why Waiting On It Could Cost You Your Business
06/16/2025
E123 - Why HR Is A Must Have And Why Waiting On It Could Cost You Your Business
In this episode, Simone and HR expert Katherine Hartvickson dive deep into one of the most misunderstood — and often avoided — parts of running a business: Human Resources. HR has a reputation problem. It’s often associated with getting written up, let go, or stuck in bureaucratic red tape. But the truth? Skipping HR is one of the most expensive mistakes a small business owner can make. Katherine unpacks real-world examples of legal and financial fallout when HR is ignored, and explains how proactive HR systems not only protect your business but help it grow faster and more sustainably. Key Topics Covered: Why HR gets a bad rap — and why that perception keeps owners from getting the help they need What happens when you wait too long: real-life legal issues that cost businesses tens of thousands When to bring in HR support (hint: it’s sooner than you think) Fractional HR vs. full-time HR — what small businesses really need Why platforms like Goco help, but aren’t the full solution How AI is both helping and hurting the hiring process The cost of bad hires — and how structured interviews can prevent them Legal traps most small businesses don’t even know they’re in Takeaway: HR isn’t just about compliance. It’s about protecting your time, your team, and your bottom line. If you’re serious about growth, it’s time to stop avoiding HR — and start using it strategically. To connect with Katherine, go to
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E122 - The 80% Shift: Why Doing Less Is The Key To Scaling More
06/09/2025
E122 - The 80% Shift: Why Doing Less Is The Key To Scaling More
You don’t need another time management hack. You need margin. Breathing room. Strategic space. That’s what today’s podcast episode is all about: the 80% Rule — and how it could save your sanity, scale your business, and finally get you out of firefighting mode. Here’s the hard truth I unpack: Most SBOs don’t have a time problem. They have a team problem. Which is actually a leadership problem. In this episode, you’ll learn: What the 80% Rule really means (and why it’s NOT about lowering your standards) The key shift top performers make to free up 20% of their time How to stop being the bottleneck so your team actually grows without you Why “delegating and developing” beats “delegating and hoping” every time Listen now and start the shift: [Listen to the episode] Then dive deeper with the — the system that helps you implement all of this, fast [>> Your future self — the one with margin, momentum, and mental clarity — will thank you.
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E121 - Leadership Beyond Fear: Inspiring The Next Generation Of Teams
06/02/2025
E121 - Leadership Beyond Fear: Inspiring The Next Generation Of Teams
This episode is all about leadership - the stark contrast between fear-based approaches and the type of inspirational leadership that truly drives results. As Simone shares, the old-school leadership styles that may have worked in the past are now falling flat, especially with the influx of younger Gen Z employees entering the workforce. The reality is that most workplaces today are still dominated by fear-based leadership. Leaders who rule through intimidation, micromanagement, and a fear of consequences. And the costs of this approach are severe - from high turnover and stifled innovation to a complete breakdown in psychological safety. But there's a better way. Simone walks us through her "Trust-Impact Leadership Model" - a framework built on five key practices that create an environment where people are genuinely inspired to go above and beyond. These include: 1--Replacing fear with psychological safety, where people feel safe to speak up, share ideas, and learn from mistakes 2--Building "empathetic accountability" based on mutual commitment, not just imposed consequences 3--Developing cross-generational communication skills to bridge gaps and tap into diverse perspectives 4--Balancing clear guardrails with genuine autonomy, empowering teams to think and act strategically 5--Leading with "compassionate candor" - framing feedback as an investment in someone's growth Simone shares how one of her clients transformed their entire culture using these principles, driving a 62% increase in Gen Z retention, a 47% boost in innovation, and an 18% jump in revenue per employee. The key takeaway is that this isn't about being "soft" - it's about creating the conditions for people to thrive. When you earn trust rather than demand compliance, you unlock creativity, commitment, and the kind of strategic thinking that helps your business scale and succeed. To learn more about our brand-new, AI driven platform that does all the heavy lifting for you to build an autonomous team that can run the business for you, go to
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E120 - Unlocking The Mindset Of Freedom And Wealth: From Operators To Entrepreneurs
05/26/2025
E120 - Unlocking The Mindset Of Freedom And Wealth: From Operators To Entrepreneurs
Simone and Nicky explore the journey from being business operators to becoming true entrepreneurs. The conversation underscores how authenticity in business creates both fulfillment and market success. By introducing Jung's archetypes, they offer a framework for entrepreneurs to connect with their true selves and communicate more effectively. Nicky introduces their innovative AI profiling tool for brand archetypes that's helping craft targeted marketing messages. For more info or to connect with Nicky go to:
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E119 - AI Isn't Optional Anymore: Why Small Business Owners Must Adapt or Fall Behind
05/19/2025
E119 - AI Isn't Optional Anymore: Why Small Business Owners Must Adapt or Fall Behind
AI is revolutionizing small businesses across all industries - from contractors to medical clinics to restaurants. What previously took weeks or months (accountability frameworks, hiring systems, org charts) can now be done in minutes with tools like the AI Business Scaling Blueprint, which combines AI efficiency with my 20+ years of leadership expertise. This isn't just about technology; it's about creating self-sustaining businesses that don't depend on owner micromanagement. Key competitive advantages for businesses embracing AI: • Automated decision-making processes • Higher team accountability • Scaling without additional hours or staff • Owners transitioning to true CEO roles • More strategic focus and less operational chaos The hesitation is understandable - learning curves feel daunting when you're already busy. But the cost of waiting grows daily as competitors pull ahead. The AI Business Scaling Blueprint addresses common pain points by transforming operational chaos into streamlined systems that reduce owner dependency and enable strategic growth. For more details go to
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E118 - Vision-Aligned Hiring: Beyond Skills to Find True Alignment
05/12/2025
E118 - Vision-Aligned Hiring: Beyond Skills to Find True Alignment
Looking for the right employees in today's market is challenging, especially for small business owners seeking qualified, accountable, and strategic talent. This episode explores why successful hiring goes beyond skills to find true motivational alignment. The most revealing interview question is simple: "Why do you want to work here?" The answer reveals what truly drives a candidate. Key insights about vision-aligned hiring: • Candidates with "selfish" answers often become your best employees • Someone who wants to develop leadership skills will work harder at becoming a leader • Personal motivation (like "I just bought a house") translates directly into commitment • The sweet spot is when personal ambitions intersect with business goals The traditional approach of focusing primarily on qualifications isn't enough. Before you can hire for alignment, you need crystal clarity about your own vision and values. What's the mountain you're climbing together, and what principles guide how you climb it? When personal goals align with company direction, that's when the magic happens. That's when a job isn't just a job, and an employee isn't just an employee. Next time you're interviewing, pay close attention when you ask, "Why do you want to work here?" The answer might reveal your next superstar—not because they have perfect qualifications, but because their personal journey aligns perfectly with your business vision. For more details and easy to use AI tools that make hiring MUCH easier go to
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E117 - Hiring Right: Navigating Growth Challenges
05/05/2025
E117 - Hiring Right: Navigating Growth Challenges
In this eye-opening conversation with hiring expert Corey Harlock from Key Hire, we dive into why so many small businesses struggle with talent acquisition and what you can actually do about it. The brutal truth? Most business owners make three critical hiring mistakes: Unclear role definition (what does success actually look like?) No defined hiring process (winging it doesn't work) Hiring for current revenue instead of future growth (playing small) Corey reveals why the "right people for the right duration" mindset beats trying to retain everyone forever. His 7 Candidate Driver Analysis tool helps businesses make smarter job offers that actually land top talent—even in this competitive market. We explore the uncomfortable reality that business growth often means outgrowing loyal employees. When deadlines get missed and arguments become common, it's time for tough decisions: mentor them up, move them sideways, or help them move on. The game-changer? Bringing in experienced professionals redefines what good leadership looks like, often exposing gaps in your current team. Yes, it takes humility to hire people better than yourself, but that's exactly how you scale. Key Hire specializes in helping businesses ($5-25M revenue) who feel overwhelmed with their talent strategy. Their 90% success rate comes from truly understanding a client's culture before recruiting—something traditional agencies rarely accomplish. Ready to double down on certainty during uncertain times? Building proper hiring structures might be exactly what your business needs right now. If you’d like to connect with Corey, find him at
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E116 - Asking For The Sale: Marketing And Copywriting For Scalability
04/28/2025
E116 - Asking For The Sale: Marketing And Copywriting For Scalability
Samantha and Simone discussed the critical role of copywriting and marketing in driving business growth and scalability: Salespeople need to be confident in asking for the sale, as effective copywriting can streamline the process. Audience education through low-ticket courses, etc. improves lead quality by helping customers understand value. Understanding sales psychology and focusing on customer needs (not just wants) is key for crafting converting copy. While AI can assist, it can't replace the human touch in writing - balancing AI with personal elements is crucial. Effective communication, whether through sales pages, educational content, or brand voice, is essential for scaling a business. The conversation highlighted the importance of finding the right balance between technology and the human element to truly maximize marketing and copywriting for business success. For more info and to connect with Sam:
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E115 - The Hiring Paradox: Why Your Dream Team Keeps Ghosting You
04/21/2025
E115 - The Hiring Paradox: Why Your Dream Team Keeps Ghosting You
The brutal truth? Most small businesses aren't "hiring ready." When 87% of owners can't find qualified candidates, it's time to look in the mirror. This podcast unpacks the Small Business Death Spiral: can't hire quality people → work yourself to exhaustion → no time to train mediocre hires → poor performance → lost customers → reduced profits → can't afford better talent → repeat. The solution? Three game-changers you can implement this week: The Reverse Interview: Answer what candidates really want to know The Mission-to-Metrics Bridge: Connect daily tasks to meaningful purpose Decision Architecture: Clarify exactly what decisions employees can make Stop blaming the market. A-players don't join disorganized companies—they join places where they can succeed and grow. You can become that company starting today. And to make your life MUCH easier and produce everything you need faster than ever possible before check out our brand-new $27 offer . There is ABSOLUTELY no reason anymore that you can’t get this done!!
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E114 - The Manager Effect On Employee Performance
04/14/2025
E114 - The Manager Effect On Employee Performance
In today's episode, we tackle the critical influence managers have on employee performance and business growth. While 70% of employees would quit over a bad manager, research shows managers can be the second most influential people in employees' lives—creating enormous potential for positive impact. Many small business owners fall into the "just hire managers" trap without building the systems to support their success. This leads to stressed managers, disengaged employees, and stalled growth. Effective management requires intentional infrastructure. To set your managers up for success: Redefine management success beyond hitting targets to creating environments where people thrive Build trust through consistent alignment between words and actions Cultivate empathy as a business practice through structured check-ins and support systems Create stability through honest, consistent communication—especially in uncertain times Implement operational systems like standardized meetings, performance frameworks, and leadership playbooks The key takeaway: Effective management is a system, not just a role. When you invest in leadership infrastructure, engagement increases, turnover drops, and you create sustainable paths to scaling your business. Your company will only grow as far as your leadership systems allow. To learn more go to
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E113 - Hacking The Watercooler: High Performance By Community
04/07/2025
E113 - Hacking The Watercooler: High Performance By Community
The modern office is a living social system, yet most fail to cultivate real connections. Over a third of employees would rather clean a toilet than ask a coworker for help - "social muscle atrophy" from remote work and impersonal tools. The result? Quiet quitting, disengagement, and a sense that work is just individual tasks, not shared endeavors. But the problem lies in the environments we've created, not the employees. Historically, the office was a public square to learn collaboration. Today, most prefer isolation or superficial relationships - traditional team-building won't cut it. Successful leaders take a more deliberate approach. They regularly practice social interactions, encourage dialogue, and weave relationship-building into daily work. By mapping silos, building bridges, and pairing disengaged with engaged mentors, they reshape workplaces into vibrant ecosystems where people feel empowered to collaborate. The preference for isolation isn't because people don't want to connect - it's because the environments we've built make it difficult. As a leader, transform your workplace into a space that fosters the human connections essential for innovation and success. For more details don’t miss our new training:
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E112 - When Passion And Purpose Drive Smart Growth
03/31/2025
E112 - When Passion And Purpose Drive Smart Growth
In this Episode, special guests Vicky and Jo from Canine Business Academy from the UK share how they help their typically operator focused clients become the leaders of successful dog training businesses. Listen to this fun, colored by British-isms episode as we discuss the importance of being the brand of your business and it reflecting who you are and at the same time not being all about you and done all by you. Key Takeaways: To build a business driven by passion and purpose it is essential to detach yourself from daily operations so it actually allows you to do more of what you love To really build a resilient brand nothing is more important than transparency and representing your personal and business values Being who you truly are is always more powerful than trying to be who you think your clients want you to be Focusing on being customer centric is essential to a profitable business If you’d like to connect with them or learn more go to
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E111 - Building a Profit-Focused Culture
03/24/2025
E111 - Building a Profit-Focused Culture
In this episode, host Simone tackles a critical issue for small business owners - establishing a profit-centric mindset throughout your entire organization. We'll discuss why every role in your company needs to be directly or indirectly driving profitability, and provide a strategic framework for instilling this profit-focused culture in your team. Key Takeaways: Aim for a 3-to-6 times return on investment for every role you add to your company Define clear profitability goals and metrics for each position Optimize your organizational structure and workflows to eliminate "dead-end" roles Hire team members who inherently understand the importance of driving profitable growth Involve your entire team in the vision, planning, and accountability around profitability Remember, the purpose of hiring employees is to grow your business, not just complete tasks Don’t miss our new training at !
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E110 - Coming Out On Top: Thriving In Change Fostering Resilience And Adaptability
03/17/2025
E110 - Coming Out On Top: Thriving In Change Fostering Resilience And Adaptability
In today’s fast-changing world, great leaders don’t resist change—they embrace it, pivot quickly, and lead with trust and empathy. In this episode we’ll explore: How to pivot quickly as a leader How to maintain trust in times of crisis How to lead with empathy during uncertainty By the end, you’ll have actionable strategies to become a more adaptable and resilient leader. Key Takeaways Adaptability is the #1 Leadership Skill – The best leaders stay curious, make quick decisions, and see change as opportunity. Pivoting Quickly – Adopt a growth mindset, plan for multiple scenarios, and use the 70% rule to make decisions faster. Building Trust in Crisis – Communicate early and often. Even if you don’t have all the answers, honesty and transparency build credibility. Leading with Empathy – Listen more, assume less. Check in with your team, support well-being, and lead by example. Action Step Choose one strategy and apply it this week—whether it’s checking in with a team member, making a faster decision, or communicating more openly. Want to learn more?
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E109 - Launch And Scale Without Wasting Your Money And Resources
03/10/2025
E109 - Launch And Scale Without Wasting Your Money And Resources
In this episode we are excited to talk with David Hirschfeld, owner of about the right way to start and scale without making the biggest mistake that costs founders precious time, money and momentum. Simone and David discuss the 4 main areas of focus: 1—How starting with the vision is only the beginning but may have to take the backseat in the process 2—Finding PMF before creating the product and why that is so important 3—For existing companies, figuring out where the bottleneck is that gets in the way time and time again 4—Especially for our audience who wants to exit, how to take tribal knowledge and codify this so that it becomes the intrinsic value of the company in one valuable playbook If you’d like to connect with David check out his website at To get more help in detail join us in our new training,
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E108 - Where Elon Musk Is Right And Wrong And How You Can Do Better
03/03/2025
E108 - Where Elon Musk Is Right And Wrong And How You Can Do Better
In this episode, we explores the CEO updates or the 5-15 concept. The podcast delves into the benefits of this approach for business owners, how to effectively implement it, and the importance of distinguishing its use in a business context versus a governmental one. Key Takeaways: Understanding the 5-15 Concept Helps business owners stay informed on employee progress and priorities Provides a record of successes and accomplishments Allows leaders to identify gaps and areas for improvement Helps identify employees who are not engaged or aligned with the company's goals Implementing the 5-15 Concept in Your Business Gain buy-in from the leadership team Communicate the purpose and benefits to employees Establish a consistent routine and format for the weekly updates Encourage open communication and follow-up on the information provided Applying the 5-15 Concept Effectively Approach it with a collaborative, not punitive, mindset Provide clear guidelines and expectations for your team Integrate the updates into regular management practices (e.g., team meetings, 1-on-1s) Use the information to drive meaningful discussions and improvements Limited time offer: work with us 1:1! If you are interested in this highest level of support check out this video:
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E107-Unsticking Your Leadership
02/27/2025
E107-Unsticking Your Leadership
As business leaders, we often know the changes we need to make to drive our organizations forward—delegate more, have difficult conversations, embrace innovation. Yet we find ourselves stuck in our "uncomfortably comfortable" routines, unable to take the necessary steps outside our familiar (but limiting) comfort zones. In this episode, we unpack the psychological and emotional factors that keep leaders paralyzed, even when they desperately want to grow and evolve. We then introduce the scientifically-proven WOOP method—Wish, Outcome, Obstacle, Plan—as a practical framework for overcoming these internal barriers and finally taking meaningful action. Through real-world leadership examples, you'll learn how to customize the WOOP process to address your specific challenges, whether that's delegating more effectively, having crucial performance conversations, or fostering a culture of innovation. Ultimately, you'll walk away with a roadmap for transforming your leadership dreams into concrete, achievable goals. Key Takeaways: --Why even the most successful leaders often prioritize day-to-day demands over long-term leadership development --How the "comfort zone trap" of familiarity and perceived control can actually prevent growth and progress --An introduction to the WOOP method and how it can help you overcome emotional obstacles to change --The importance of making leadership development a strategic priority, not just a "nice to have"
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E106 - Leading through uncertain times
02/17/2025
E106 - Leading through uncertain times
In this eye-opening episode, we dive deep into the real-world challenges facing minority/immigrant employees - and uncover concrete strategies small business leaders can use to guide their teams through turbulent times with empathy, trust, and a relentless focus on shared purpose. Key Topics Covered: Understanding the Struggles Your employees are dealing with far more than just work stress. Imagine the constant anxiety of not knowing if you'll be able to see your family again, or the strain of not fully understanding important instructions because they're only in English. These are the daily realities many of your team members face. Building Bridges of Trust and Community As the leader, you have the power to create a safe, supportive environment where your people feel truly seen, heard, and valued. This means breaking down barriers, communicating in their language, and celebrating cultural traditions. When employees know they can count on you, they'll be far more engaged and resilient. Maintaining Focus on Purpose and Progress Even in the midst of uncertainty, you have to keep your team's eyes on the bigger picture. Regularly reinforce your company's core mission and values. Break down big goals into bite-sized wins. Get creative with workplace rituals that boost morale and camaraderie. This helps your people stay motivated, productive, and moving in a positive direction. Additional Insights and Resources: • Source immigration legal services and community organizations to partner with • Focus on engaging agendas and activities for team meetings and cultural celebrations • Practice effective goal-setting and progress tracking For more details, check out our free training:
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E105 - The crisis of employee (dis)engagement
02/10/2025
E105 - The crisis of employee (dis)engagement
Employee engagement has hit a decade-low, with less than a third of employees feeling truly engaged at work. This crisis is driven by factors like rapid organizational changes, remote/hybrid work challenges, and a lack of clear priorities, consistent feedback, and accountability from leadership. In this episode, we'll cover 5 essential practices you can implement right now to revive engagement and position your business for long-term success. Key Takeaways: Define Your Culture and Vision - Clearly communicate your company's core values, purpose, and strategic direction so employees feel connected to the bigger picture. Hire (and Develop) Engagement-Driven Managers - Invest in finding and training managers who have a natural talent for people leadership and motivating teams. Foster Stronger Employee-Company Connections - Provide regular feedback, set achievable goals, and create growth opportunities so employees feel valued. Embrace Transparency and Accountability - Build trust by being transparent about priorities, expectations, and performance metrics. Prioritize Work-Life Balance and Well-Being - Offer flexibility, encourage time off, and promote physical/mental health to show you care about your people. Check out our brand-new free training for bite-sized, easy to implement action steps to revive inspired performance in your team:
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E104 - The Highest Cost In Business… Why Do Employees Really Quit Their Jobs?
02/03/2025
E104 - The Highest Cost In Business… Why Do Employees Really Quit Their Jobs?
Are you tired of feeling trapped in the endless cycle of firefighting and micromanagement in your business? In this episode, we dive deep into the single biggest factor holding your company back from explosive, sustainable growth - and it all comes down to empowering your team to think and act like entrepreneurs. We explore the proven strategies for cultivating a high-performance, owner-driven culture that unlocks your organization's true potential. Discover the mindset shifts, process overhauls, and leadership breakthroughs that have helped our clients generate over $1 billion in profits. Whether you're struggling with high turnover, disengagement, or just the constant feeling of being overwhelmed, this episode is packed with actionable insights to help you break free and transform your business. Key Takeaways: The #1 complaint I hear from frustrated employees: "I want to take ownership of my work" Why the biggest constraint on your company's growth isn't your competition, but your own leadership approach How to empower your team to think and act like entrepreneurs (hint: it's not about working harder) 5 proven strategies to cut bureaucracy, celebrate innovation, and give your people the freedom to thrive Why you can't afford to ignore the employee retention crisis - and the tangible costs of high turnover The mindset shift that unlocks explosive, sustainable growth for your business For more details and a free case study, go to
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E103 - Unleashing The Superpowers Of Gen Z: A Small Business Owner's Guide
01/27/2025
E103 - Unleashing The Superpowers Of Gen Z: A Small Business Owner's Guide
As a small business owner, you're probably all too familiar with the dreaded "Gen Z" workforce. The entitled, distracted, always-online youngsters who seem to have a completely different set of priorities and expectations than the generations that came before them. It's enough to make even the most seasoned entrepreneur want to pull their hair out in frustration. But what if I told you that the secret to unlocking your small business's full potential lies right in front of you - in the form of that very same Gen Z talent pool? Because believe it or not, these so-called "weaknesses" of the younger generation are actually superpowers in disguise. Superpowers that, when harnessed correctly, can drive innovation, boost your bottom line, and future-proof your company for years to come. On this episode of the Small Business Growth Podcast, we're going to reframe the narrative around Gen Z. Instead of complaining about what they lack, we'll dive into the unique strengths they bring to the table - and more importantly, explore actionable strategies for leveraging those strengths to supercharge your growth. Key Takeaways: Redefining the Gen Z "Weaknesses:" Unpack the common stereotypes about Gen Z workers - the job-hoppers with short attention spans Reveal how those "weaknesses" can actually be superpowers in disguise Highlight the digital fluency, hunger for growth, and feedback-driven nature of Gen Z. Unlocking Gen Z's Full Potential: Invest in comprehensive onboarding and training programs to instill your vision and values. Build dynamic, collaborative work environments that empower Gen Z to contribute ideas. Provide regular, structured feedback to keep them motivated and performing at their best. The Gen Z Transformation: Gen Z possesses an incredible array of superpowers that can revolutionize small businesses. The choice is yours - keep complaining or start tapping into their full potential... Need help? We got a killer new training out that will help you do EVERYTHING we just talked about. Don't miss this:
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E102 - Building the Right Team for Business Growth and Exit with Pete Mohr
01/20/2025
E102 - Building the Right Team for Business Growth and Exit with Pete Mohr
Guest: Pete Mohr, certified exit planner and Kolbe coach Key Topics Covered: The importance of having a clear external-facing "promise" for your business Using the Kolbe assessment to understand how your team naturally makes decisions and takes action Leveraging Kolbe insights to improve communication, alignment, and role fit within your team The value of starting exit planning early, even 3-5 years before a potential business exit Ways to Connect with Pete: Main website: Take the Value Builder assessment: Connect on LinkedIn:
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E101 - Stop Thinking About It: The One Thing Holding Your Business Back In 2025 (It's Not What You Think)
01/13/2025
E101 - Stop Thinking About It: The One Thing Holding Your Business Back In 2025 (It's Not What You Think)
Small business owners, it's time to decide that enough is enough. This year, in 2025, commit to breaking the cycle, empowering your team, and unlocking the growth and freedom you deserve. Take the first step by watching this video to identify where you're the bottleneck in your business. Visit to get started. We are all too familiar with the never-ending hamster wheel of firefighting, constant crises, and a feeling of being trapped in the daily grind. However, the root cause holding them back isn't the workload itself, but their inability to let go, empower their team, and focus on high-level strategy. This podcast episode provides a clear roadmap for small business owners to break free from the cycle, build a high-performing team, and unlock the growth, profitability, and freedom they crave. Key Takeaways: Diagnose the real problem: The "lack of time" excuse is just a symptom, not the disease. The true issue is an over-reliance on doing everything yourself, which robs you of the ability to work on your business, not just in it. Embrace the mindset shift: letting go of control and empowering your team may feel uncomfortable, but it's the only way to break free from the firefighting frenzy and become the visionary leader your business needs. Actionable steps: a. Conduct an honest assessment to identify bottlenecks and tasks you need to delegate b. Develop a comprehensive training and development plan to upskill your team c. Carve out dedicated, protected time to work on the business (not just in it) Check out our brand-new training for bite-sized, easy to implement actions that drive big results:
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E100!!! - Mastering the Art of Networking with Michael Forman
01/06/2025
E100!!! - Mastering the Art of Networking with Michael Forman
Guest: Michael Forman, author of "Networking Unleashed" and networking expert Key Topics Covered: The importance of quality over quantity when it comes to networking - being selective about the conversations you have Tips for introverts on how to approach networking events, including bringing a "wingman" to help facilitate conversations The step-by-step process for effective networking follow-up Use a CRM and drip marketing to stay top-of-mind with your networking connections long-term Key Takeaways: Quality connections are more valuable than collecting a pile of business cards Introverts can overcome networking challenges with preparation Following up effectively after an event is crucial to converting new connections into business opportunities Ways to Connect with Michael: Website: Download the "Networking Unleashed" PDF: Connect on LinkedIn:
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E99 - Time Thief Tracker: Reclaim Your Time, Accelerate Your Growth
12/17/2024
E99 - Time Thief Tracker: Reclaim Your Time, Accelerate Your Growth
As small business owners, we're often trapped in the day-to-day, unable to focus on strategic growth. The consistent roadblock to scaling and sustainable success isn't lack of skill or vision; it's lack of time. In this episode, you'll learn how to implement the Time Thief Tracker – a simple yet powerful system to identify and address your time-wasting activities, so you can reclaim your time and accelerate your business growth. Key Takeaways: Track your time in 30-minute increments for one week to uncover your top "time thieves" – activities that consume large chunks of your time without contributing to strategic growth. Evaluate each time thief through the lens of delegation and value – can this task be delegated, and is it the best use of your time as the business owner? Create an action plan to offload delegatable tasks, empowering your team and freeing up your time for high-impact, strategic initiatives. Committing to the Time Thief Tracker is non-negotiable for sustainable growth – it's the key to unlocking the freedom and focus you need to reach your 2025 goals. Need more help? Don’t miss our workshop. Register here!
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E87 - PIPs - Your Secret Weapon To Unlock Your 2025 Growth
12/09/2024
E87 - PIPs - Your Secret Weapon To Unlock Your 2025 Growth
Performance improvement plans (PIPs) often get a bad rap, but I'm here to tell you that when done right, they can be a total game-changer for hitting your 2025 growth goals. Traditional performance reviews simply aren't cutting it anymore. They lack the structure and accountability needed to drive real improvements in employee performance. But a well-designed PIP? That's a different story. Imagine having clear, measurable goals that are directly tied to your 2025 strategic objectives. Regular check-ins between your team members and their supervisors. Defined timelines so everyone knows exactly what's expected and by when. That's the kind of system that sets your employees up for success. And here's the best part - PIPs don't just benefit the underperformers on your team. When implemented effectively, they can uplift your entire organization. You'll have a group of empowered, accountable individuals who are laser-focused on helping you achieve your growth goals. Say goodbye to vague performance reviews that don't translate into real results. Instead, you'll see greater efficiency, fewer missed deadlines, and higher quality work across the board. It's the secret weapon you need to break through that plateau and unlock your full potential in 2025. So are you ready to make PIPs work for your small business? For more details, check out the framework here:
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Building a "Lean Profit Machine": Unlocking the Power of Six Sigma and Lean
12/02/2024
Building a "Lean Profit Machine": Unlocking the Power of Six Sigma and Lean
If you're a business owner or leader who's tired of constantly fighting fires and struggling to drive sustainable growth, this podcast episode is a must-listen. Simone Janssen reveals the powerful methodology they've used to help countless organizations break free from chaos and unlock new levels of operational efficiency and profitability. And it all comes down to the dynamic duo of Six Sigma and Lean. You'll discover: • The 5 essential steps of the Six Sigma DMAIC framework and how to apply them to identify and address the root causes of inefficiencies in your business. • How integrating Lean principles can amplify the impact of your Six Sigma efforts by empowering your frontline team, eliminating waste, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. • A real-life case study of a manufacturing client who used this approach to increase output by 28%, reduce cycle time by 35%, and drive $900,000 in extra profit in just 6 months. Simone makes it clear: Becoming a "lean profit machine" isn't a one-time fix - it's an ongoing journey. But with the right framework and mindset, you can transform your organization into an agile, efficient, and profitable juggernaut. Ready to get started? Time to book a call and get personalized guidance on how to implement these strategies in your business. Don't miss your opportunity to take your company to new heights - listen to the episode now and claim your spot before it's gone. For more info and to book:
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Your Exit Strategy… How Well Will You Do?
11/25/2024
Your Exit Strategy… How Well Will You Do?
In this episode, Simone and Joshua Monge, a fractional COO specializing in business optimization, discussed the critical steps business owners should take to prepare for a successful exit. They highlighted the importance of proper structuring, documentation, and maintaining a scalable business identity separate from the owner. The conversation covered topics such as the value of EBITDA, the role of certified professionals in business valuation, and strategies for addressing operational bottlenecks. The hosts emphasized the need to start the exit planning process early, get one's financial house in order, and document key processes to ensure a smooth transition and maximize the business's value. Next Steps for Business Owners: Clean up financial books and ensure accurate records for at least 3-5 years. Document key processes and systems to reduce dependence on any single individual. Identify and address operational bottlenecks that could lower business valuation. To access Joshua’s process mapping structure, go here:
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Right People, Right Seats: Hiring Your #2
11/18/2024
Right People, Right Seats: Hiring Your #2
Are you a founder or CEO looking to take your organization to the next level? The key might just be in your second-in-command. In this essential new episode, we dive deep into the power of the #2 role and how to navigate the opportunities and pitfalls of this critical hire. Join us as we explore: -The critical functions and responsibilities of a strong #2 leader -Common mistakes to avoid when bringing on a second-in-command -Proven strategies for a successful search, onboarding, and integration process -Real-life case studies and lessons learned from organizations who have been there before Whether you're a newer business or an established organization, the decisions you make around your leadership team can make or break your future success. Don't miss this chance to learn how set your #2 up for success--which means helping you truly step into the role of a business leader. Watch all the replays for the workshop here: If you want our help to integrate this into your business, book a call with us:
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