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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E144 - The Leadership Shift: Who You Must Become to Lead at the Next Level
11/17/2025
E144 - The Leadership Shift: Who You Must Become to Lead at the Next Level
Freedom isn’t found in automation—it’s found in evolution. In this final episode, Simone ties everything together and challenges you to become the leader your business now requires. Your business can only grow to the level of its leader. Key Takeaways Why scaling your company starts with scaling yourself. The five identity shifts from operator to visionary CEO. How AI keeps leadership clear, focused, and sustainable. The mindset that turns success into legacy. Start your leadership reset with the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at . THIS SERIES The Leadership Reset: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You Most business owners don’t have a time problem—they have a leadership problem. In The Leadership Reset, you’ll discover why your burnout, team issues, and stalled growth all trace back to one root cause: outdated leadership habits that no longer serve the business you’ve built. Over five powerful episodes, you’ll learn how to shift your identity from overworked operator to strategic CEO, use AI to install clarity and consistency, and build a culture that performs at the highest level—without your constant involvement. It’s time to stop working in the business and start leading beyond it. Get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at and start your leadership reset today.
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E143 - The Future-Proof Team: From Chaos to Culture
11/10/2025
E143 - The Future-Proof Team: From Chaos to Culture
Culture isn’t a vibe—it’s a system. Simone reveals how to design the frameworks and rhythms that make excellence automatic and teams self-managing. You can’t scale chaos—but you can scale culture. Key Takeaways The three frameworks every high-performance team needs. How clarity and consistency turn energy into engagement. Why rituals build culture faster than motivation ever could. Using AI to codify and sustain alignment across your company. Turn chaos into culture with the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at . THIS SERIES The Leadership Reset: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You Most business owners don’t have a time problem—they have a leadership problem. In The Leadership Reset, you’ll discover why your burnout, team issues, and stalled growth all trace back to one root cause: outdated leadership habits that no longer serve the business you’ve built. Over five powerful episodes, you’ll learn how to shift your identity from overworked operator to strategic CEO, use AI to install clarity and consistency, and build a culture that performs at the highest level—without your constant involvement. It’s time to stop working in the business and start leading beyond it. Get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at and start your leadership reset today.
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E142 - Gen Z Isn’t Lazy: They’re Leaderless
11/03/2025
E142 - Gen Z Isn’t Lazy: They’re Leaderless
Gen Z isn’t the problem—they’re the mirror. This episode unpacks why today’s workforce rejects confusion and chaos and how leaders can use clarity systems to unlock their drive, loyalty, and performance. They don’t need babysitting—they need structure. Key Takeaways The six things every Gen Z employee needs to thrive. Why “laziness” is really a leadership clarity issue. How AI helps you communicate, coach, and align across generations. Turning your team from reactive to responsible. Lead the next generation with clarity—get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at THIS SERIES The Leadership Reset: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You Most business owners don’t have a time problem—they have a leadership problem. In The Leadership Reset, you’ll discover why your burnout, team issues, and stalled growth all trace back to one root cause: outdated leadership habits that no longer serve the business you’ve built. Over five powerful episodes, you’ll learn how to shift your identity from overworked operator to strategic CEO, use AI to install clarity and consistency, and build a culture that performs at the highest level—without your constant involvement. It’s time to stop working in the business and start leading beyond it. Get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at and start your leadership reset today.
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E141 - The Illusion of Control: How Competence Becomes Your Cage
10/27/2025
E141 - The Illusion of Control: How Competence Becomes Your Cage
Your greatest strength may now be your biggest trap. In this episode, Simone challenges the high-performer’s mindset that equates control with quality—and shows you the path to scale without losing standards. Control doesn’t equal quality—it equals captivity. Key Takeaways Why competence creates dependency instead of freedom. The hidden cost of being “the best.” How to replicate excellence through systems, not supervision. Using AI to document and scale your standards. Use the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint to turn your genius into systems your team can run at . THIS SERIES The Leadership Reset: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You Most business owners don’t have a time problem—they have a leadership problem. In The Leadership Reset, you’ll discover why your burnout, team issues, and stalled growth all trace back to one root cause: outdated leadership habits that no longer serve the business you’ve built. Over five powerful episodes, you’ll learn how to shift your identity from overworked operator to strategic CEO, use AI to install clarity and consistency, and build a culture that performs at the highest level—without your constant involvement. It’s time to stop working in the business and start leading beyond it. Get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at and start your leadership reset today.
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E140 - The Burnout Loop: Why Working Harder Is Making You Weaker
10/21/2025
E140 - The Burnout Loop: Why Working Harder Is Making You Weaker
If you’re tired, overwhelmed, and wondering how you can keep this up—you’re not alone. In this kickoff episode, Simone exposes the hidden reason hard-working owners never escape the grind and how to break the burnout loop for good. You’re not burned out because you can’t handle it—you’re burned out because everything still depends on you. Key Takeaways Why overwork is a symptom of under-leading. The difference between being the hero and being the architect. How slowing down to install systems actually speeds up growth. How AI helps you turn leadership clarity into freedom. Break the burnout loop with the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at . THIS SERIES The Leadership Reset: How to Build a Business That Runs Without You Most business owners don’t have a time problem—they have a leadership problem. In The Leadership Reset, you’ll discover why your burnout, team issues, and stalled growth all trace back to one root cause: outdated leadership habits that no longer serve the business you’ve built. Over five powerful episodes, you’ll learn how to shift your identity from overworked operator to strategic CEO, use AI to install clarity and consistency, and build a culture that performs at the highest level—without your constant involvement. It’s time to stop working in the business and start leading beyond it. Get the $27 AI Business Scaling Blueprint at and start your leadership reset today.
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E139 - The Culture Multiplier: How to Turn Your Team Into a Growth Engine
10/06/2025
E139 - The Culture Multiplier: How to Turn Your Team Into a Growth Engine
Culture isn’t a poster on the wall or a team happy hour. It’s the invisible force that drives—or drags—your business every single day. Whether you design it intentionally or let it happen by default, culture dictates how your people show up, solve problems, and push your vision forward. In this episode, we reveal how culture is not just a “feel-good” idea but a performance multiplier. You can hire well, onboard well, retain well, and even build accountability—but if your culture is weak, it will quietly undermine all of it. A strong culture, on the other hand, attracts talent, keeps A-players engaged, and turns your business into a true growth engine. We’ll break down why most owners get culture wrong, what high-performance culture actually looks like, how to design it intentionally, and how AI helps you measure and reinforce culture at scale. Key Takeaways: Why culture exists whether you design it or not—and why default culture usually drags performance down. The 3 biggest mistakes small business owners make about culture. The hallmarks of a high-performance culture: shared mission, ownership mentality, psychological safety, continuous growth, and recognition. How to design culture intentionally by defining it, embedding it into systems, and modeling it as the leader. Why “culture is caught, not taught”—and how your habits set the tone more than your words. How AI can measure sentiment, spot risks, reinforce rituals, and keep culture aligned with your vision. If you’re ready to stop defaulting to culture and start designing it as your ultimate performance multiplier, grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint. Inside, you’ll find the systems and AI tools to build culture into every part of your business—hiring, onboarding, retention, and accountability—so growth becomes inevitable. Go to and start building a culture that runs your business—even when you’re not in the room.
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E138 - The Self-Managing Team: How to Build Accountability Without Micromanaging
09/29/2025
E138 - The Self-Managing Team: How to Build Accountability Without Micromanaging
Imagine a business where your team solves problems, makes decisions, and delivers results—without you chasing, reminding, or micromanaging. For most small business owners, that feels like a fantasy. In reality, they swing between two extremes: micromanaging every detail or abdicating responsibility altogether. Both approaches fail, leaving owners burned out and frustrated. In this episode, we reveal the true path to a self-managing team: building systems of accountability. Accountability isn’t about supervision—it’s about ownership. It’s about outcomes, not tasks. When you create clarity, decision rights, and visibility, your people stop waiting to be told and start owning results. We’ll unpack why most owners struggle with accountability, the 5 pillars of a self-managing team, and how AI makes accountability simple and scalable. Key Takeaways: Why most small business owners confuse accountability with supervision. The difference between accountability and control—and why both micromanagement and abdication fail. The 5 pillars of a self-managing team: clarity, outcomes, decision rights, feedback loops, and visibility. The mindset shift every owner must make: from problem-solver to system-builder. How AI creates role scorecards, tracks performance, automates reminders, and surfaces insights—so accountability is consistent without you chasing it. The ultimate payoff: a business that runs without you. CTA: If you’re ready to stop chasing your team and start leading a self-managing business, grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint. Inside, you’ll find the exact frameworks and AI tools to create accountability without micromanaging—and finally step into the CEO role your business needs. Go to and start building a team that owns results without you babysitting them.
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E137 - From Employees to A-Players: How to Keep and Grow the Talent You Worked So Hard to Find
09/22/2025
E137 - From Employees to A-Players: How to Keep and Grow the Talent You Worked So Hard to Find
Hiring and onboarding get people in the door. But the real challenge begins after that: keeping them engaged, motivated, and growing with your business. Too many small business owners assume that if someone is happy today, they’ll be happy forever. That’s not how it works—and it’s why turnover quietly drains capacity, profits, and morale. In this episode, we explore how to transform good employees into long-term A-players who stay, grow, and multiply your vision. Retention isn’t about perks or pay raises—it’s about creating clarity, recognition, development, and purpose. When you design an environment where people thrive, they won’t just stick around—they’ll drive your business forward. We’ll break down why people really leave, the growth flywheel that keeps them engaged, and how AI can help you scale retention without adding more to your plate. Key Takeaways: Why retention is even more critical in small businesses than in large corporations. The 4 real reasons people quit—and why money is almost never the top one. How to build a “Growth Flywheel” of clarity, development, recognition, and contribution. Why perks don’t create retention, and what does. The owner’s blind spot: how your stress and habits set the tone for your team. How AI can track engagement, flag disengagement early, and personalize development paths. If you’re ready to stop losing great people and start building a team that stays, grows, and multiplies your impact, grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint today. Inside, you’ll find the systems and AI tools to make retention predictable and scalable—without adding more to your workload. Go to and start building the team that grows with you.
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E136 - The Hidden Cost of Bad Onboarding: Why You’re Losing Your Best People Before They Even Start
09/15/2025
E136 - The Hidden Cost of Bad Onboarding: Why You’re Losing Your Best People Before They Even Start
You did it—you finally hired the right person. They’re smart, capable, and seem like the perfect fit. But just 90 days later, they’re gone. It’s not because of pay. Not because of competition. It’s because you lost them before they ever had a chance to succeed. In this episode, we uncover one of the most overlooked growth-killers in small businesses: bad onboarding. Hiring gets people in the door, but onboarding determines whether they stay, perform, and contribute to your vision. If your onboarding is rushed, unclear, or nonexistent, you’re not just wasting money—you’re sabotaging your own growth. This conversation will show you how to flip the script, create clarity from day one, and use AI to deliver consistent, scalable onboarding without adding more to your plate. Key Takeaways: Why almost half of new hires fail within the first 18 months—and many leave in the first 90 days. The 3 biggest mistakes small business owners make when onboarding new hires. The ripple effect of bad onboarding on morale, productivity, and your calendar. The 5 questions every new hire needs answered to succeed from day one. How to build onboarding systems that run without you. How AI can personalize, automate, and track onboarding so you don’t have to babysit it. If you’re tired of wasting money on hires who don’t last and ready to build a team that sticks, it’s time to grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint. Inside, you’ll find the proven systems and AI tools you need to stop the onboarding chaos and finally create a business that scales without you. Go to and start building onboarding systems that keep your best people.
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E135 - Why Your Hiring Isn’t Working: The Hidden Priorities That Actually Attract A-Players
09/08/2025
E135 - Why Your Hiring Isn’t Working: The Hidden Priorities That Actually Attract A-Players
Hiring shouldn’t feel like gambling—but for most small business owners, it does. You put out a job ad, interview a few candidates, and hope you find someone who sticks. More often than not, you end up disappointed, burned out, and right back in the hiring cycle. In this episode, we’re exposing the big lie about hiring: it’s not about filling seats. It’s about building the future of your business. If you’ve been focused on resumes, tasks, and perks, you’ve been missing the real priorities that attract and keep top talent. This conversation will help you shift from desperate hiring to intentional team-building—so you stop wasting money on the wrong people and start creating a pipeline of A-players who multiply your vision. Key Takeaways: Why most small business hiring is really just gambling—and how to stop playing that game. The “Hiring Mirage” that tricks owners into filling seats instead of building capacity. Why A-players don’t respond to task lists or perks—and what they actually want instead. The three non-negotiables of hiring: mission fit, values alignment, and capacity for growth. How to write job ads, design interviews, and position your business to attract true A-players. The role of AI in modern hiring—and how it gives you a massive edge in competing for talent. If you’re ready to stop gambling with hiring and start building a self-managing team that grows your business without you, grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint today. Inside, you’ll find the exact frameworks and AI-powered systems you need to attract, hire, and retain the right people. Go to and start building the team that gives you back your freedom.
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E134 - Burnout Is A Business Model Problem - Not A Personal One
09/08/2025
E134 - Burnout Is A Business Model Problem - Not A Personal One
In this episode, we tackle the silent epidemic plaguing high-performing business owners: burnout. But not from the usual angle. Because burnout isn’t caused by laziness, lack of motivation, or even overwork. It’s caused by building a business that can’t function without you. If you’re tired of carrying the weight of the business on your back, this episode will show you a new way forward—one built on systems, not stress. The most successful CEOs aren’t working harder. They’ve simplified, delegated, and systemized their way to freedom. And so can you. Discover... Why hustle isn’t the solution—it’s the trap How Fortune 500 CEOs operate (and why you should steal their model) The “3-decision week” that rewires how you lead Why burnout is a system design failure, not a personal flaw How AI becomes the key to escaping overwhelm—for good Ready to stop being the engine of your business and start building a machine that runs without you? Grab the and start leading like a real CEO.
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E133 - The Real Reason You're Burned Out (It’s Not What You Think)
08/25/2025
E133 - The Real Reason You're Burned Out (It’s Not What You Think)
In this episode, we’re blowing up the biggest myth about entrepreneurial burnout—and showing you how AI isn’t just a task tool, but the unlock to finally getting your business out of your head and into a self-sustaining rhythm. If you’re overwhelmed, drowning in decisions, and still somehow the glue holding your business together… this isn’t a systems problem. It’s a leadership structure problem. And fixing it starts now. AI won’t save you if you’re using it to work faster inside the same broken model. What you need isn’t more hustle—it’s structure and white space. This episode shows you how to get both. What You’ll Learn: Why you’re still stuck—even with a team and tools The 3 levels of AI use (and why most owners are trapped at Level 1) How to reclaim your time The mindset shift from reactive manager to strategic multiplier Real AI prompts you can use to think clearer, delegate smarter, and design your business differently Why burnout isn’t a sign of failure—it’s a signal to lead at the next level Ready to lead like the CEO your business needs? Grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint and start building the structure that sets you free: You’ve already started leading differently. Now let’s finish what you started.
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E132 - Burnout Is A Business Model Problem—Not A Personal One
08/18/2025
E132 - Burnout Is A Business Model Problem—Not A Personal One
In this episode, we tackle the silent epidemic plaguing high-performing business owners: burnout. But not from the usual angle. Because burnout isn’t caused by laziness, lack of motivation, or even overwork. It’s caused by building a business that can’t function without you. If you’re tired of carrying the weight of the business on your back, this episode will show you a new way forward—one built on systems, not stress. The most successful CEOs aren’t working harder. They’ve simplified, delegated, and systemized their way to freedom. And so can you. Discover... Why hustle isn’t the solution—it’s the trap How Fortune 500 CEOs operate (and why you should steal their model) The “3-decision week” that rewires how you lead Why burnout is a system design failure, not a personal flaw How AI becomes the key to escaping overwhelm—for good Ready to stop being the engine of your business and start building a machine that runs without you? Grab the and start leading like a real CEO.
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E131 - The Death of Personality-Driven Leadership
08/11/2025
E131 - The Death of Personality-Driven Leadership
In this episode, we unpack one of the most overlooked reasons small businesses stay stuck: the trap of personality-driven leadership. If your business only works when you're watching, reminding, or rescuing—it’s not your people that are broken. It’s your system. We explore how leadership systems—not superstar employees—are what make businesses scale. You'll learn why Gen Z isn't your problem (and what actually is), how AI can stabilize your operations even when motivation dips, and the mindset shift that will finally free you from being the bottleneck. This episode is for any business owner who's tired of babysitting their team and ready to build a business that thrives without them. What You’ll Learn: Why relying on “great people” is a leadership liability The truth behind Gen Z disengagement (and how to fix it) How to get consistent performance—even from B-players What to do when your team starts coasting during summer How AI replaces chaos with clarity (and you with systems) Ready to build a business that runs without you? Grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint now at:
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E130 - Why Saying Yes Is Sinking Your Business
08/04/2025
E130 - Why Saying Yes Is Sinking Your Business
Most business owners don’t realize it, but constantly saying “yes” isn’t a strength — it’s a leadership weakness. What feels like being a good, approachable leader is often the exact reason you’re stuck in operations, overwhelmed, and unable to grow. In this episode, we break down why saying yes too much traps business owners in burnout, disempowers their teams, and keeps their companies dependent on them. We’ll show you how learning to say no, installing the right systems, and leveraging AI tools frees you up to lead at the highest level — without sacrificing your business, your family, or your health. Key Takeaways: Why saying yes all the time is a symptom of weak leadership, not strength The hidden cost of “nice leadership” on your business, your team, and your personal life How saying no creates clarity, structure, and stronger team ownership How to retrain a team that’s used to depending on the owner for every decision How AI tools now make it easier than ever to install systems that support real leadership — without months of setup Ready to build a business that scales without depending on you? Go to and grab the simple AI tool that changes life and business.
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E129 - AI Will Not Save You - But It Can Set the Stage for What Will
07/28/2025
E129 - AI Will Not Save You - But It Can Set the Stage for What Will
AI is not your savior—but it can be your secret weapon. In this episode, we unpack the real reason most small businesses stay stuck even after adopting AI: they’re still operating instead of leading. Discover the three powerful ways AI, when used correctly, creates leverage—and why none of it matters unless you step up and lead at a higher level. AI won’t save your business—but it will eliminate every excuse you’ve had for not scaling. This episode is a wake-up call for overwhelmed business owners who are ready to ditch the busywork, activate their team’s genius, and finally build a business that grows without depending on them. You will discover: Why AI isn’t about clarity—it’s about capacity, and how to use that capacity to make better, faster strategic decisions. How to move your team from high activity to high ROI by aligning work with each person’s sweet spot. The role of AI in building systems that keep your team focused and accountable—without micromanagement. How to use AI not just to work faster, but to think better and break out of your “already always thinking.” The one thing AI can’t do: lead. Why your leadership is the final unlock in building a scalable business. Want to start turning AI into a true business multiplier? Grab the AI Business Scaling Blueprint at . Download it. Start implementing. And when you're ready to go further, reach out for next-level support. Let’s build a business that frees you to lead.
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E128 - Burnout Isn’t About Working Too Much — It’s About Working On The Wrong Things
07/21/2025
E128 - Burnout Isn’t About Working Too Much — It’s About Working On The Wrong Things
If you want to build a business that runs without draining your people — or you — this episode is your roadmap to creating alignment, clarity, and growth without the burnout spiral. Most people think burnout is about being overworked. But for many high-performing employees, the real culprit is misalignment. When work lacks meaning, challenge, or a clear connection to purpose, even light workloads can feel heavy. In this episode, we unpack the deeper causes of burnout — and reveal why better leadership, clear communication, and the smart use of AI can create a more energized, fulfilled, and high-performing team. Burnout isn’t just about doing too much — it’s about doing work that lacks meaning, challenge, or connection. Leadership failures — unclear expectations, poor role alignment, lack of feedback — are often the root cause. Millennials and Gen Z crave growth, purpose, and being part of something bigger. Without that, they disengage fast. Psychological safety, progress, and vision clarity are essential for a motivated, resilient team. AI can drastically reduce burnout by eliminating repetitive tasks and enabling people to focus on their zone of genius. Great leaders create cultures where people are energized, not exhausted — by providing clarity, care, and challenge. To leave the burnout spiral behind even when volume is high, go to
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E127 - Why Your Team Is Pretending to Work (And What to Do About It)
07/14/2025
E127 - Why Your Team Is Pretending to Work (And What to Do About It)
If nearly half your team is pretending to work, the real problem isn’t laziness—it’s leadership. When your mission is fuzzy, KPIs are unclear, and communication is inconsistent, your team isn’t engaged—they’re surviving. And most leaders make it worse by tightening control instead of building culture. In this episode, we break down how to fix the disengagement at its roots—starting with how you hire, how you lead, and how you design the systems your team runs on. You’ll also hear: How “productivity theater” forms—and how to stop directing it The hiring mistake that kills accountability from day one Why the 5 C’s are the missing link between clarity and ownership How Human Needs Theory reveals what your team is really missing Why AI isn’t here to replace your team—it’s here to give you back the bandwidth to lead them Ready to stop managing and start leading? Get the tools to build a self-led team at
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E126 - Confident But Clueless: Leading The Un-Coachable Employee
07/07/2025
E126 - Confident But Clueless: Leading The Un-Coachable Employee
In this episode, we tackle one of the most frustrating (and costly) leadership challenges: working with a team member who’s sure they’re performing… but everyone else sees the truth. This isn’t just about ego—it’s about the collision between inflated self-worth and a lack of self-awareness. And if you don’t know how to handle it? It can quietly drag down your entire team culture. We dig into the real danger of overconfident underperformers: why they resist feedback, how they confuse potential with performance, and what to do when coaching just isn’t working. You’ll also hear: --Why your highest-potential hire might be your biggest leadership risk --The 5-question “Coachability Test” that reveals whether someone can grow—or needs to go --How to stop giving feedback that bounces off, and start building systems that make expectations undeniable --The real cost of keeping someone who thinks they’re crushing it, but keeps missing the mark --How to use weekly scorecards, self-assessments, and alignment sprints to cut through the spin Bottom line: You can’t build a business on ego. And you can’t grow a culture that tolerates spin. But you can create clarity, coachability, and accountability—if you lead with structure, not just hope. Ready to implement the systems that make it possible? Visit /boost to scale your leadership and eliminate the chaos—for good.
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E125 - The AI Takeover — Tool Or Trap?
06/30/2025
E125 - The AI Takeover — Tool Or Trap?
Hey, here is the next one—wherever it fits in the lineup. Show Notes: The AI Takeover — Tool or Trap? In this episode, we pull back the curtain on the AI revolution—what it really means for small business owners, and why using it wrong could cost you far more than ignoring it altogether. AI isn’t just a tech trend. It’s a leadership shift. When used well, it creates white space—time to think, lead, and coach. When used poorly (or not at all), it traps you in the same reactive cycle you’ve been trying to escape. We explore the “AI paradox” in real-world terms: how AI can create your structure and automate your admin but will never replace your relationships, and why your human connection is now your biggest competitive advantage. You’ll also hear: Why Duolingo’s AI launch backfired—and what it teaches us about trust The 5 Cs your team needs to become strategic partners (and how AI can help you create them) How most business owners are burned out not from growth—but from doing what AI could have done for them The identity shift from operator to catalyst—and how AI makes that possible Bottom line: AI won’t lead for you. But it will give you the structure and thespace to finally start leading like you were meant to. Ready to see how it works in your business? Visit and learn how to scale your systems and your leadership—together.
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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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