🧨 THE PROBLEMS 

1. Tech Overload and Integration Issues
   The rapid influx of new technologies—from AI-driven analytics to mobile ordering systems—can overwhelm franchise owners. Integrating these tools can be expensive, time-consuming, and confusing without the right guidance.
2. Consumer Behavior is a Moving Target
   Customers today expect instant gratification, personalized experiences, and ethical practices. Keeping up with evolving expectations is like trying to catch a fish with your bare hands—slippery and frustrating.
3. Labor Challenges Aren’t Going Away
   Attracting and retaining talent in retail is becoming harder with rising wage demands, changing employee expectations, and a shift toward remote and flexible work environments.
4. Supply Chain Uncertainty is the New Norm
   From shipping delays and raw material shortages to import tarfs, unpredictable supply chains are throwing wrenches into day-to-day operations, affecting inventory and customer satisfaction.
    

🚀 THE POSSIBILITIES 

1. AI and Automation Can Save Time and Money
   When used effectively, AI tools can streamline operations, optimize inventory, and even improve customer service with data-backed insights.
2. Customer Experience is Now a Competitive Weapon
   Franchises that embrace personalization, loyalty programs, and ethical branding are winning customer hearts and wallets.
3. Franchise Models Are Becoming More Flexible
   Micro-franchising, ghost kitchens, and mobile units are creating new formats that reduce overhead and adapt to local markets.
4. Sustainability and Community Ties Matter More Than Ever
   Emphasizing eco-friendly practices and local engagement not only boosts your brand but strengthens customer loyalty.
    

📚 THE PRINCIPLES 

1. Adaptability is the New Stability
   Businesses that pivot quickly to change—whether it’s tech, trends, or customer needs—will thrive.
2. People First, Tech Second
   Technology should empower your team and customers, not replace or alienate them.
3. Brand Integrity Over Brand Popularity
   Stay true to your core values and mission, even when the trends change.
4. Data-Informed, Not Data-Obsessed
   Use data to support decisions—but don’t forget the human touch.
    

🛠️ THE STRATEGIES 

1. Audit Your Tech Stack
   Take inventory of your current tools and ditch what doesn’t serve your goals. Add platforms that save time and reduce manual work.
2. Create a Future-Ready Hiring Plan
   Focus on flexible scheduling, strong culture, and digital onboarding to attract today’s workforce.
3. Run Trend Experiments Monthly
   Try new ideas on a small scale—whether it's TikTok ads or menu tweaks—and measure results.
4. Host Community-Driven Events
   Reinforce your brand locally by supporting causes or creating small events that align with your values.
    

✅ THE ACTION PLAN (Est. time: 4 minutes)

1. Block Out Time Monthly to Review Trends
   Schedule one hour a month to explore tech updates, customer trends, and franchise news.
2. Train Staff on One New Tool Each Quarter
   Keep it simple. Focus on one upgrade at a time and build team confidence.
3. Launch a Customer Feedback Loop
   Use surveys or social media polls to ask what your customers want more (or less) of.
4. Set One “Futuristic” Goal Every 6 Months
   Whether it’s installing new tech, improving sustainability, or launching a new product, make future-thinking a habit.

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🚨 The Problem: The Challenges of Scaling a Franchise

Scaling a franchise sounds exciting, but it’s filled with challenges that can trip up even the most ambitious owners. Here’s where many franchise owners struggle:

1. Financial Strain & Cash Flow Issues – Expansion requires capital, and poor financial planning can lead to debt or failure.
2. Operational Inconsistency – Maintaining quality and service across multiple locations is tough without the right systems.
3. Leadership Gaps – You can’t be in two places at once—scaling requires a strong team that can operate independently.
4. Market Saturation & Location Selection – Expanding too fast or in the wrong area can cannibalize sales from your existing stores.

🌟 The Possibilities: The Benefits of Smart Franchise Scaling

Imagine this: You own multiple franchise locations, each running like a well-oiled machine. You have the right people in place, revenue is climbing, and you’re no longer tied to the daily grind. Here’s what happens when you scale the right way:

1. Increased Revenue & Profitability – More locations mean more income streams and greater financial security.
2. Stronger Brand Presence & Market Share – Expanding smartly helps you dominate your region and build brand authority.
3. A Team That Runs the Business for You – With great systems and leadership in place, you can step back and focus on big-picture growth.
4. Opportunities for Further Expansion – Once you master multi-unit operations, you open doors for even bigger growth—regional, national, or even international!

📖 The Principles: Key Foundations of Scaling a Franchise

Scaling successfully isn’t about luck—it’s about following proven principles. Here are the essentials:

1. Financial Preparedness is Everything – You need a solid financial plan, access to capital, and a realistic budget for expansion.
2. Systems & Processes Make Scaling Possible – Standard operating procedures (SOPs) ensure every location runs smoothly and consistently.
3. People Drive Growth – Strong leadership and training programs create a team that can handle multiple locations effectively.
4. Market Research Matters – Never expand blindly—analyze demand, competition, and location viability before committing.

🚀 The Strategies: How to Scale Your Franchise Successfully

Scaling isn’t about opening locations as fast as possible—it’s about smart, sustainable growth. Here’s how you can do it:

1. Start with One Strong, Profitable Location – Before expanding, make sure your current franchise is financially solid and running efficiently.
2. Build a Rockstar Leadership Team – Train managers who can operate new locations without you being there daily.
3. Use Data-Driven Site Selection – Research foot traffic, demographics, and competition to find the best location for growth.
4. Secure Financing & Expansion Capital – Whether through franchisor support, investors, or business loans, make sure you have the funds to scale without financial strain.

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✅ The Action Plan: Steps to Start Scaling Your Franchise

Scaling your franchise doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Here’s your action plan:

1. Evaluate Your Current Business Health – If your first location isn’t thriving, fix the issues before expanding.
2. Develop an Expansion Blueprint – Plan out the financials, staffing, and operational structure before opening new locations.
3. Strengthen Training & SOPs – Document everything so new locations can replicate your success.
4. Execute & Monitor Closely – Once you open a new location, track key performance indicators (KPIs) and make adjustments as needed.

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🚨 The Problem: Marketing Challenges in Franchise Ownership

Marketing a franchise comes with some unique hurdles that can make it tough to stand out. Here’s what franchise owners struggle with:

1. Corporate Marketing Isn’t Always Local-Friendly – National campaigns are great, but they don’t always connect with local customers.
2. Limited Marketing Control – Many franchisees feel restricted by corporate guidelines, making it hard to get creative.
3. Competition is Fierce – You’re not just competing with other businesses—you’re competing with other franchise locations of your own brand!
4. Marketing Budgets Can Be Tight – Many franchise owners have limited funds for local marketing, making it tough to reach new customers.

🌟 The Possibilities: The Power of Innovative Franchise Marketing

Imagine this: Your franchise location is the talk of the town. People know your brand, engage with your content, and your sales are climbing. Here’s what happens when you market smart:

1. Stronger Local Brand Recognition – Customers recognize and choose your location over competitors.
2. More Customer Loyalty & Engagement – Creative marketing builds strong relationships with your audience, keeping them coming back.
3. Increased Foot Traffic & Sales – The right strategies bring new customers through your doors consistently.
4. A Competitive Edge – Even if you’re part of a national brand, unique marketing makes your franchise the go-to spot in your area.

📖 The Principles: Core Foundations of Franchise Marketing

Marketing success isn’t about luck—it’s about following key principles that work across industries:

1. Know Your Local Audience – Corporate marketing is broad, but you need to understand what your specific customers want.
2. Consistency is Key – A one-time marketing effort won’t cut it. Build a strategy that keeps your brand visible.
3. Engagement Over Promotion – Customers don’t want to be sold to all the time; they want value, entertainment, and connection.
4. Track & Measure Everything – If you’re not tracking results, you’re guessing. Use data to refine and improve your marketing efforts.

🚀 The Strategies: Innovative Marketing Tactics for Franchise Owners

Marketing doesn’t have to be expensive—it just has to be smart. Here are some innovative ways to market your franchise:

1. Hyper-Local Social Media Marketing – Go beyond corporate’s social posts. Create content about your local area, highlight customers, and engage with community groups.
2. Leverage User-Generated Content (UGC) – Encourage customers to share their experiences on social media. Feature their posts and build a loyal community.
3. Host Local Events & Collaborations – Partner with nearby businesses, schools, or influencers to create in-person events that draw crowds.
4. Invest in Local SEO & Google My Business – Optimize your online presence so that when people search for your product or service, your franchise location appears first.

✅ The Action Plan: Steps to Supercharge Your Franchise Marketing

You’re ready to take your franchise marketing to the next level! Here’s your action plan:

1. Audit Your Current Marketing Efforts – Identify what’s working and what’s not. Where can you improve?
2. Choose One New Strategy to Implement This Month – Start small! Pick one strategy (social media, events, SEO) and execute it well.
3. Track & Adjust – Set key performance indicators (KPIs) and measure results to see what’s driving the best returns.
4. Create a Marketing Calendar – Plan your promotions, content, and events in advance to stay consistent and organized.

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Culture is like the air in your business—you don’t always see it, but you feel it. And when it’s bad, everyone suffers. Here are the biggest culture-killers:

1. Toxic or Negative Work Environment – Employees dread coming to work, leading to low morale and poor customer service.
2. Lack of Clear Values & Mission – If your team doesn’t know what your business stands for, they won’t feel connected to it.
3. High Employee Turnover – Bad culture leads to constant hiring and training, which drains time, money, and energy.
4. Disconnection Between Leadership & Employees – When owners or managers don’t engage with their teams, it creates a "them vs. us" mentality.

🌟 The Possibilities: The Power of a Strong Franchise Culture

Imagine walking into your franchise and seeing employees who are actually happy to be there. Customers notice the difference, and your business thrives. Here’s what a great culture can do:

1. Increased Employee Retention & Engagement – People stick around when they feel valued and supported.
2. Better Customer Experience – Employees with positive energy create a welcoming atmosphere that keeps customers coming back.
3. Higher Productivity & Teamwork – When people enjoy working together, efficiency skyrockets.
4. Stronger Brand Reputation – A great culture attracts top talent and loyal customers, making your franchise a go-to destination.

📖 The Principles: The Foundations of a Thriving Franchise Culture

A great franchise culture isn’t accidental—it’s built on these foundational principles:

1. Lead by Example – Culture starts at the top. If you’re not embodying the values you want to see, your team won’t either.
2. Open & Honest Communication – Employees should feel safe sharing feedback and ideas without fear of backlash.
3. Recognition & Appreciation – A simple "thank you" or shout-out can do wonders for morale.
4. Consistency & Integrity – Say what you mean, follow through on commitments, and treat everyone with respect.

🚀 The Strategies: How to Build a Robust Franchise Culture

Culture isn’t just words on a mission statement—it’s built through daily actions. Here’s how you can create a culture that sticks:

1. Hire for Attitude, Train for Skill – Skills can be taught, but the right mindset and attitude are priceless.
2. Create Team Rituals & Traditions – Weekly team meetings, fun incentives, or special celebrations build a sense of community.
3. Encourage Employee Growth – Offer training, mentorship, or opportunities for advancement to show you invest in your people.
4. Foster a Fun & Supportive Workplace – People perform better when they enjoy their work. Create a culture where fun and professionalism coexist.

✅ The Action Plan: Steps to Strengthen Your Franchise Culture

You’re ready to build a strong franchise culture! Here’s your action plan:

1. Assess Your Current Culture – Get honest feedback from employees and customers about the current work environment.
2. Define Your Core Values – Make sure your team understands what your franchise stands for and how it impacts daily work.
3. Implement Small Changes This Week – Pick one strategy (recognition, communication, or fun traditions) and start using it today.
4. Hold Yourself & Leadership Accountable – Culture starts at the top, so commit to leading by example and staying consistent.

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🚨 The Problem: Struggles with Leadership in Franchise Ownership

Leadership sounds great—until you’re actually in charge. Here’s why it can be tough:

1. Managing vs. Leading – Many franchise owners get stuck in the day-to-day operations and forget about actually leading their teams. If you’re always in the trenches, who’s setting the vision?
2. High Turnover & Employee Motivation – Employees leave bad management, not bad jobs. If you can’t keep a strong team, your franchise will struggle.
3. Balancing Corporate Expectations with Team Needs – Your franchisor has policies, but your employees have real-world challenges. Striking that balance is an ongoing battle.
4. Fear of Delegation – Many franchise owners try to do everything themselves, which leads to burnout. Spoiler alert: You can’t do it all alone!

🌟 The Possibilities: What Great Leadership Can Do for Your Franchise

Picture this: Your team is motivated, customers love your service, and you actually have time to focus on growing the business. That’s the power of great leadership!

1. A Thriving, Loyal Team – When you lead well, employees stick around longer and perform better. Less turnover means less stress.
2. A Business That Runs Without You – The best leaders build systems so the business doesn’t fall apart if they take a day off.
3. Stronger Customer Relationships – Happy employees create happy customers, and that means repeat business and better reviews.
4. More Freedom & Growth – With a well-led team, you can step back from daily tasks and focus on expansion and new opportunities.

📖 The Principles: Core Leadership Traits for Franchise Owners

Great leaders aren’t born—they’re built. Here are the core principles of leadership in franchise ownership:

1. Lead by Example – If you want employees to work hard and provide great service, you have to set the standard. Your team is watching.
2. Emotional Intelligence is Everything – Understanding your employees’ needs, motivations, and challenges will make you a stronger leader.
3. Communication is a Two-Way Street – Great leaders don’t just give orders—they listen. Create an open environment where employees feel heard.
4. Consistency Builds Trust – Employees need to know what to expect from you. Be reliable, set clear expectations, and follow through.

🚀 The Strategies: How to Build Your Leadership Skills

You don’t need an MBA to be a great leader. Here are some actionable strategies you can start using today:

1. Delegate Like a Pro – Trust your team with responsibilities. Give them ownership of tasks and watch them rise to the occasion.
2. Have Regular One-on-Ones with Employees – Checking in with your team individually builds trust and helps you address problems before they escalate.
3. Develop a Recognition Culture – People work harder when they feel appreciated. Celebrate wins, big or small.
4. Invest in Leadership Training – Read books, attend workshops, or find a mentor. Continuous learning is key to growing as a leader.

✅ The Action Plan: Your Leadership Development Roadmap

Ready to level up your leadership game? Here’s your action plan:

1. Assess Your Leadership Style – Take an honest look at your strengths and weaknesses. Ask employees for feedback (if you’re brave enough!).
2. Implement One Leadership Strategy This Week – Pick one thing—delegation, communication, recognition—and put it into practice.
3. Schedule a Monthly Leadership Check-In – Set a time each month to reflect on your progress and adjust your leadership approach as needed.
4. Find a Leadership Mentor or Peer Group – Connect with other franchise owners or business leaders to learn from their experiences.

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🚨 The Problem: The Challenges of Franchise Ownership

Owning a franchise can feel like playing a game where someone else makes the rules—except the rulebook is 500 pages long and constantly changing. Let’s talk about the major roadblocks:

1. Limited Control, Maximum Responsibility – You have to follow the franchisor’s guidelines, which can limit your creativity and decision-making. But guess who’s still on the hook for making sure everything runs smoothly? Yep, you.
2. Corporate vs. Local Conflicts – The franchisor might roll out marketing strategies that don’t fit your local market. Ever tried selling pumpkin spice lattes in Florida in July? Not fun.
3. Financial Pressures & Fees – Royalty fees, marketing fees, supply costs—these can all eat into your profit margins fast.
4. Employee & Customer Expectations – Your employees expect leadership, and customers expect consistency. But balancing happy employees, quality service, and corporate expectations? That’s a juggling act.

🌟 The Possibilities: The Rewards of Franchise Ownership

Imagine this: You walk into your store, and everything is running like a well-oiled machine. Your team is thriving, your customers are happy, and your profits are climbing. This is the dream, and here’s how it can happen:

1. Brand Recognition & Built-in Customer Base – Unlike starting a business from scratch, you’re tapping into a name people already trust. That’s a massive advantage.
2. Franchisor Support & Training – Many franchises provide strong training programs and resources to help you succeed. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
3. Scalability & Growth – If you master one franchise location, you can expand into multiple locations and build real wealth.
4. Community Impact & Leadership – You get to be a leader in your community, create jobs, and make a real difference—all while running a profitable business.

📖 The Principles: Key Foundations of Franchise Success

Success in franchise ownership isn’t about luck—it’s about following a solid game plan. Here are the guiding principles:

1. Know the Franchise Inside and Out – Read the fine print, understand the contract, and know exactly what you can and can’t do. Surprises aren’t fun in business.
2. Financial Discipline is Key – Budget for fees, prepare for slow seasons, and always keep an emergency fund. A little planning goes a long way.
3. Leadership Over Management – Great franchise owners don’t just enforce rules; they inspire teams. Build a strong culture, and everything else becomes easier.
4. Adapt, But Stay Consistent – Follow corporate guidelines while making small, smart adjustments to fit your local market. Find the balance.

🚀 The Strategies: How to Overcome Franchise Challenges

It’s time to roll up our sleeves and get tactical. Here’s how to handle the biggest challenges:

1. Master Corporate Relations – Build a good relationship with your franchisor. Be proactive, attend meetings, and give feedback—don’t just complain.
2. Localize Your Marketing – Even if corporate runs national ads, supplement them with local events, social media, and community engagement.
3. Optimize Your Operations – Streamline schedules, cross-train employees, and use technology to improve efficiency and cut costs.
4. Develop a Strong Team Culture – Invest in training, recognize hard work, and create a positive environment so employees stick around.

✅ The Action Plan: Steps to Franchise Success

You’re ready to take control of your franchise journey. Here’s your action plan:

1. Audit Your Franchise Operations – Take a hard look at what’s working and what’s not. Make a list of areas for improvement.
2. Create a Financial Game Plan – Set a budget, review fees, and track your numbers weekly. Financial awareness is everything.
3. Engage with Corporate & Community – Strengthen your relationship with both corporate leaders and local customers. Find ways to bridge the gap.
4. Train & Empower Your Team – Invest in your employees. The better they perform, the smoother your operations will run.

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Imagine you’re at a buffet with every kind of food imaginable. You pile your plate with everything, only to realize nothing actually goes together. That’s what picking the wrong franchise feels like—you end up with a mess that doesn’t suit your taste, lifestyle, or goals.

Here’s why finding the right franchise is such a struggle:

• Analysis Paralysis – With thousands of franchise options, many people freeze up, unsure which one is right for them.
• Hidden Costs & False Promises – Some franchises look amazing on paper but come with hidden fees and unrealistic expectations.
• Mismatch with Skills & Interests – A franchise might be profitable, but if it doesn’t match your strengths, you’ll end up hating it.
• Lack of Proper Research – Many jump in without truly understanding the business model, leading to costly mistakes.

The Possibilities:

Picture this: You walk into your franchise location, and it just feels right. The customers are happy, the business is booming, and you’re actually enjoying your work. Instead of dreading Mondays, you’re excited about the opportunities ahead.

Here’s what happens when you find the perfect franchise:

• You wake up excited to work, not dreading it. Passion drives success!
• Your business grows faster because you’re playing to your strengths. The right fit means less struggle and more wins.
• Financial stability comes easier. A franchise that aligns with your market and expertise leads to profitability.
• You build a legacy, not just a job. The right franchise can become a long-term asset, even something to pass down.

The Principles:

Let’s say you’re picking a car. You wouldn’t just buy the flashiest one—you’d check the mileage, safety, and whether it actually fits your lifestyle. Finding the right franchise works the same way.

Here are four key principles to follow:

• Know Yourself First – Understand your strengths, weaknesses, and what you actually enjoy doing.
• Research Like a Detective – Dig into franchise financials, talk to existing owners, and read the fine print.
• Assess Market Demand – A great franchise in the wrong location is a recipe for disaster.
• Evaluate the Support System – Strong franchisor support can make or break your success.

The Strategies:

Imagine buying a house without ever stepping inside—crazy, right? But that’s exactly what some people do when choosing a franchise. Here’s how to avoid that mistake and find the right fit.

• Make a “Must-Have” & “Dealbreaker” List – List what you need in a franchise (flexibility, profitability, etc.) and what you won’t tolerate.
• Talk to Franchisees, Not Just Franchisors – Existing owners will give you the real scoop on challenges and profits.
• Test the Waters – Visit locations, experience the business as a customer, and even work a shift if possible.
• Hire a Franchise Consultant – A pro can help you sort through the noise and find franchises that align with your goals.

The Action Plan:

Think of this like assembling IKEA furniture. You have the tools, now you just need the step-by-step instructions to put it together.

Here’s how to take action today:

1. Define Your Goals & Strengths – Write down what you want in a business and what you’re good at.
2. Create a Shortlist of Franchises – Narrow your search to 3-5 franchises that match your criteria.
3. Interview Franchisees & Attend Discovery Days – Get real-world insights before making a decision.
4. Review Financials & Legal Documents – Don’t sign anything until you fully understand the costs and obligations.

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1. The “No One Can Do It Like Me” Syndrome – Many owners believe that if they want it done right, they have to do it themselves, leading to micromanagement and exhaustion.
2. Lack of Trust in Employees – Fear of mistakes or poor execution often prevents franchise owners from handing over important responsibilities.
3. Time Investment in Training – Teaching someone else to do a task properly takes time and effort, which many owners feel they don’t have.
4. Losing Control Anxiety – Handing off tasks can feel like losing control, making owners uneasy about business operations running smoothly.

The Possibilities: The Benefits of Mastering Delegation

1. More Time for Growth – Freeing up time lets owners focus on expansion, marketing, and strategy instead of daily operations.
2. A More Motivated Team – Employees thrive when they feel trusted and valued, leading to higher job satisfaction and retention.
3. Better Work-Life Balance – Effective delegation allows owners to take breaks, recharge, and avoid burnout.
4. Scalability and Long-Term Success – A business that runs smoothly without the owner’s constant involvement is set up for sustainable growth.

The Principles: The Core Concepts of Effective Delegation

1. Trust, But Verify – Delegation doesn’t mean abdication; implement accountability systems to ensure tasks are completed correctly.
2. Clear Communication is Key – Provide detailed instructions, expectations, and feedback to ensure a seamless handoff.
3. Empower Through Training – Invest in staff development so they feel equipped and confident in their roles.
4. Let Go of Perfectionism – Accept that tasks might be done differently but can still be effective; progress is better than perfection.

The Strategies: How to Delegate Like a Pro

1. Start Small – Begin with minor tasks to build confidence in delegation and ease the transition for both owner and employees.
2. Use the 80/20 Rule – Identify the 20% of tasks that generate 80% of results and delegate lower-impact responsibilities first.
3. Match Tasks to Strengths – Assign duties based on employee skills and interests to ensure higher efficiency and engagement.
4. Set Up a Feedback Loop – Regular check-ins and constructive feedback ensure tasks stay on track and improve over time.

The Action Plan: Steps to Implement Delegation Today

1. List Your Daily Tasks – Write down everything you do in a day and identify which tasks can be handed off.
2. Select the Right People – Choose employees who show reliability and capability to take on more responsibility.
3. Create Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) – Document step-by-step instructions for tasks to ensure consistency.
4. Step Back and Observe – Resist the urge to jump in; let employees prove they can handle their tasks while providing guidance when necessary.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

The Problems – Why Scaling Can Crush Your Culture (5 min)

1. New hires don’t “get it.” The more people you bring in, the harder it becomes to ensure they truly understand and embrace your company values.
2. Process over people. As businesses grow, they often shift their focus to efficiency and forget about the human touch that made them special.
3. Communication breakdown. With more layers of management, it becomes harder to keep everyone aligned on the mission.
4. Franchisees doing their own thing. Independent franchise owners might stray from the culture, creating inconsistencies that weaken your brand.

The Possibilities – What Happens When You Get Culture Right? (5 min)

1. A team that “just gets it.” When culture is embedded deeply, new hires naturally align with the mission from day one.
2. A brand that customers recognize and trust. Strong culture creates consistency, and consistency builds customer loyalty.
3. Leadership that leads with purpose. When values are clear, decision-making becomes easier and more impactful.
4. Happier, more engaged employees. People thrive in businesses where they feel connected to something bigger than just a paycheck.

The Principles – The Core of a Scalable Company Culture 

1. Define Your Core Values Clearly – Make them simple, actionable, and easy for every employee to understand and embody.
2. Hire for Cultural Fit, Not Just Skill – Prioritize attitude and alignment with your company’s mission over technical abilities.
3. Build Systems That Reinforce Culture – From onboarding to daily operations, create processes that reinforce your values at every level.
4. Lead by Example – Your leadership team must live and breathe the culture; employees take cues from the top.

The Strategies – How to Grow Without Losing Your Culture

1. Codify Your Culture in a Playbook – Create a culture guide that outlines your mission, values, and expectations for all employees.
2. Train Leaders, Not Just Managers – Invest in leadership development so they can spread the culture at every level.
3. Use Technology to Stay Connected – Implement communication tools that keep teams engaged across multiple locations.
4. Celebrate and Recognize Culture Champions – Regularly highlight employees who embody company values to reinforce the right behaviors.

The Action Plan – Keeping Your Culture Intact as You Grow

1. Audit your current culture. Identify what’s working, what’s not, and where gaps exist.
2. Define your core values clearly. Write them down, communicate them often, and integrate them into everything you do.
3. Implement a training and reinforcement strategy. Make sure your team is continuously educated and engaged in your culture.
4. Hold leadership accountable. If those at the top don’t model the culture, no one else will either.

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Hey there, fellow productivity seekers! Ready to kick your daily routine into high gear? In this newsletter, we're diving deep into habits that can transform your average day into a powerhouse of productivity. From morning rituals to evening wind-downs, we've got 10 essential habits to share that'll supercharge your day. Let's dive in and make every moment count!

Habits that will make your day more productive.

1. Rise and Shine: The Power of Morning Rituals: Start your day off right with purposeful morning rituals that set a positive tone.Early Bird Gets the Worm: Wake Up with Purpose: Rise and shine with intention! Whether it's setting goals or practicing gratitude, starting your day with a clear mindset can set the stage for success.

2. Mastering Time Management: Key to Productivity: Time is precious—learn how to manage it effectively for maximum productivity.

3. Prioritize with Purpose: Harness the Power of To-Do Lists: Stay on track with to-do lists that prioritize tasks and keep you focused on what matters most. Break down big goals into actionable steps for a sense of accomplishment.

4. Embrace the Pomodoro Technique: Work Smarter, Not Harder: Say goodbye to procrastination! Embrace focused bursts of work with the Pomodoro Technique to maintain productivity and prevent burnout. The Pomodoro Technique is a time management method that helps you focus on a single task for short intervals, usually 25 minutes, followed by a short break, usually 5 minutes. The idea is to divide your work into manageable chunks and avoid distractions and procrastination.

5. Cultivating a Growth Mindset: Unlock Your Potential: Adopt a growth mindset to overcome obstacles and reach new heights.

6. Embrace Challenges: Turn Setbacks into Opportunities: View challenges as chances to grow and learn. Shift your perspective to see setbacks as steppingstones to success.

7. Continuous Learning: Expand Your Horizons: Commit to lifelong learning for personal and professional growth. Dive into books, courses, and mentorship opportunities to stay ahead of the curve.

8. Streamlining Your Environment: Set the Stage for Success: Optimize your surroundings for productivity by decluttering physical and digital spaces.

9. Clear the Clutter: Minimize Distractions Create a workspace free of distractions to enhance focus and productivity. A tidy environment leads to a clear mind.

10. Digital Detox: Unplug for Mental Refreshment: Take breaks from screens to recharge and foster creativity. Disconnecting from technology can boost mental clarity and overall well-being.

Conclusion: Elevate Your Productivity Today: And there you have it—10 game-changing habits to make your day more productive than ever! Whether you're a busy professional or just looking to optimize your routine, these habits will help you unlock your full potential. So why wait? Start implementing them today and watch your productivity soar!

FAQs

Q: How long does it take to form a new habit?

A: Research suggests it takes around 66 days, but everyone's journey is different!

Q: Can I adopt all 10 habits at once?

A: While it's possible, starting with one or two may lead to greater success.

Q: What if I fall off track with my habits?

A: Don't sweat it! Just refocus and keep moving forward.

Q: Are these habits suitable for everyone?

A: Absolutely! They're adaptable to any lifestyle or profession.

Q: How can I measure the effectiveness of these habits?

A: Try keeping a productivity journal to track your progress.

Q: Can these habits help with work-life balance?

A: Definitely! By maximizing productivity, you'll have more time for relaxation and fun.

Get started today and unlock your full potential with these powerful habits!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Know Your Triggers

The likelihood of being distracted is directly related to the amount of pull something has on our attention. Increased self-observation and deep introspection help you identify where your boundaries lie.

There are three cues that you need to either set boundaries for or to raise your awareness when your boundaries slip:

Discomfort

Resentment

Guilt

You can’t always avoid every single distraction, but if you’re aware of your weaknesses, you have a better chance of putting the right systems in place to reduce exposure to distractions.

The first step in setting boundaries is knowing your triggers and limits – are they mental, emotional, physical, or spiritual?

Once you identify your triggers, you can set healthy boundaries to give you room to do what you want to focus on. Boundaries serve as the framework to focus your efforts and harness your energy so that you can do your best work.

Keep in mind that your limits are your own, so it’s likely to be different than the limits of others.

Our inability to set boundaries results from our fear of offending those around us. However, you have little to no obligation beyond your own guilt to be immediately available to everyone all the time. Once you set boundaries, stand by them.

Eliminate Digital Distractions

If you’re like most workers, you don’t spend all of your hours at work doing actual work. Be honest. During those perceived lulls at work, the temptation to surf the internet or double-check your notifications can be strong. Remove all digital distractions and reward yourself later.

Email Usage

Emails can be extremely distracting. Keeping our email open makes us think we are more connected to others. However, checking our emails often is unnecessary.

The average professional spends 28% of their workday checking emails and responding to emails.[2]

If there is an urgent matter, email would not be the first method of contact for you. People will call you instead.

What can you do to resist constantly checking your email?

Phone Use

Not all calls are about your apartment being burglarized or a loved one in a precarious situation. So turn off your mobile phone or put it on silent mode during hours when you need all your attention on your work. You can also opt to activate the voicemail service.

You could also request your workmates to inform your callers you will get back to them later instead of always tapping your back or shouting out that you’ve got a call at any time.

Once you’re done with work, call back the earlier callers and explain your situation briefly. In the next two minutes, ask about their concern, note it down and tell them you’d call them back for their needed action. Prepare and write all their needed details, bearing in mind their possible follow-up thoughts on the matter. Then, call them back and always limit the phone conversation to less than three minutes.

BE “INVISIBLE”

You can also set your instant messaging status to indicate you are “busy” or stay “invisible” while you work to remain focused on a task. If you still get IMs, just turn off the notification or program. Turn it on later when your current task is not as pressing.

Social Media

It’s usually hard to stay focused at work because something new, interesting, and perky always comes with most social networking sites. Not only will it defeat your purpose of staying focused at work, but there’s plenty of information there that could get your mind unnecessarily perturbed – like a friend’s status about her heartbreak or someone from work getting a raise.

Discipline yourself to log in only when you have extra minutes free. This will help you efficiently use your time to focus on work.

Focus on Short Bursts

The tried and true “Pomodoro technique” is a key strategy to improve how you focus at work. It understands that focusing on difficult tasks is both efficient and tiring. You can break it down like this 

How to do the Pomodoro Technique:

Choose your assignment/work to do

Set the timer to 25 minutes

Work until the timer rings

Take a five-minute break

Take longer breaks (15 to 30 minutes) for every four Pomodoro intervals

Article and Video Links

https://www.lifehack.org/articles/productivity/15-ways-to-stay-focused-at-work.html

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ITff1fIbSc

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episode every Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I am The Entrepreneurial Evangelist! 
I help passionate entrepreneurs build the foundations and frameworks they need to make a massive impact on the world. 

I have spent my life pursuing professionally those things that I most love personally and I love to spread that to the world! 
I am an entrepreneur, coach, and podcaster. I bring energy, experience, and curiosity to anything I do!

A few things about me:
- I am the host of The Spear and Clover Podcast. Our show is where Military Mindset meets The Spirit of the Puppy. We highlight renegade entrepreneurs who bet it all on their passions.
- I have coached and consulted with hundreds of entrepreneurs for the past 4 years. I love working with entrepreneurs and have NEVER gotten off of a coaching call with LESS energy than when I started.
- I have owned a large CrossFit gym in Chicago for the past 12-years. Here, I developed a love for building tribal communities. This has been one of the great passions of my life!
- I have a degree in finance and worked as a commercial banker to large companies. This means  I can speak to finances and break-down the fundamentals of business.
- I am a US Army Veteran and have served on two deployments to Iraq. I also was stationed in Germany!

https://www.spearandclover.com/

https://www.facebook.com/spearandclover

https://www.linkedin.com/company/spear-and-clover-podcast/

https://www.instagram.com/spearandclover/?hl=en

https://twitter.com/spearandclover

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLvCzSRy8vrhjflYJUq8yTw

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episode every Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

BOTO is here to help us be open, rather than attached, to outcomes in our life. Openness and non-attachment let us recover the human resources of wisdom and objectivity.

Some cultures believe that wisdom is flexible and fluid. The way to tap into this is to be open to outcome and access wisdom by learning how to trust and be comfortable with states of not knowing.

Trust is the container out of which the qualities of wisdom grow clarity, objectivity, discernment, and detachment.

Trust: A firm belief in the reliability, truth, ability, or strength of someone or something.

Clarity: The quality of being clear and easy to understand.

Objectivity: A person’s judgment not influenced by personal feelings or opinions in considering and         representing facts.

Discernment: the quality of being able to grasp and comprehend what is obscure.

Detachment: a feeling of not being emotionally involved.

The opposite of trust is control. The trickster figure found in many cultures functions to present surprise and the unexpected as a way of waking up people out of their routines and shocking them into seeing their attachments.

BE OPEN TO OUTCOME – What does that mean?

Being open to outcome means that you don’t always need to know for sure what is going to happen next – you are WISE enough and TRUSTING enough and FLEXIBLE enough to let what will happen, happen. It means if it is not the outcome you were hoping for, you can be RESILIENT enough to recover.

Resilient: a person able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.

I want to thank Angeles Arrien for the book “The Four-Fold Way: Walking the Paths of the Warrior, Teacher, Healer and Visionary.” This is where the concept of BOTO comes from. I also want to thank Beth and Ron Black and Cherokee Creek Boys School where I was introduced to BOTO.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episode every Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

1. “No Problem” or “Don’t worry about it” Saying that there is no problem might make the customer think that they were bothersome. “Don’t worry about it” implies that the customer needs to worry because we will not fix the problem. Instead, when providing a solution to an issue, take ownership of the problem and let the customer know that you are happy to help. You can say, “I am happy to help” or “I’ll do my best to help you resolve this.”
2. ‘It’s not a big deal” It may not be a big deal to you but rest assured if customers brought something to your attention — a problem, concern, or question — it’s a big deal to them. Instead, say “Tell me more.”
3. “I will be with you in a second or minute” Every customer knows this in an unrealistic time expectation, and it is very irritating. Instead use “I will be with you as soon as possible and thank you for your patience.” This sets up the expectation that you will be with them as quickly as you can and their patience is appreciated.
4. “I’m not sure, but I think . . . “ This phrase makes your customers feel like they can’t trust you to provide excellent customer service, which is not what you want them to think! A customer should be able to get help from customer service representatives with confidence. Instead of saying you are unsure about their question, you can say: “I’m happy to answer your questions today.” This customer service response will give customers the impression that you are knowledgeable and experienced.
5. “Calm down” If there is one sentence that has the power to exponentiate any flare of anger is this one. Telling someone to calm down is like adding oil to a hot pan, it’s explosive. The best thing you can do in stressful situations is just letting the customer speak it out. Let him say all that he has to say, all the problems and anxieties. Listen to all that he says and keep agreeing with sentences like “I understand…” or “I see…”. Sooner or later the customer will naturally start to calm down and prepare himself to listen to you. Your receptiveness will also convey that you care about what they have to say and that fact will give you extra points when trying to solve this customers’ issues, with an understanding mindset from his side.
6. “Your wrong” A customer should never be blamed for an issue. Even if it feels like the customer is at fault, avoid language that comes off sounding rude and judgmental. It’s best to avoid this phrase and instead acknowledge a customer’s feelings without blaming them. For example, you can say: “I appreciate your feedback” or “I can hear what you are saying.”  These sound more empathetic and respectful.
7. Do not swear at the customer. Swearing is or otherwise insulting the customer a sinful no-go. Remember: you are representing your company, not yourself. Swearing shows unprofessionalism and can be extremely offensive.
8. Silence – not responding to the customer Yes. Far worse than anything you can say is not saying anything. We're not talking about the "I am listening" type of silence, we are talking about the silence from an unanswered chat or phone call, from a never-ending waiting queue. Silence represents a lack of capacity to serve your customers, making them look for alternatives soon.
9. “I don’t know” Excellent customer service requires strong listening skills to understand the customer’s needs and concerns. Avoid simply saying that you don’t know the answer because this might suggest you are unwilling to help. Instead, show the customer what you are going to do to help them. You can use additional phrases such as “Let me check that for you” or “I’ll be glad to look into that for you.” It’s completely fine if you don’t know the answer,  just show the customer that you will make an effort to find out and help them.
10. Use “We” instead of “I” When talking to customers change your pronoun from “I” to ‘We”. We implies that the company as a whole is there to help the customer. That “We are in this together” is the feeling you are portraying to the customer. The term “We” is more inclusive.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing a new episode every Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

When asked about his favorite aspect of his career, John Mendez reflected upon his extensive experience, and dedicated that title to the ability to help others realize their potential, grow wealth, and live abundant lives. Having the ability to pass on his expertise and contribute to the success of others is, by far, one of the most fulfilling parts of what he does. 
As a proud podcast host, social media guru, realtor, investor, and serial entrepreneur, John is eager to share his valuable insights with the future entrepreneurs, intrapreneurs, and innovators of the world. By way of his podcast, Walk 2 Wealth, John is celebrated for sharing personal and guest experiences regarding the process of establishing a life of prosperity. 

In addition, his business, Stop and Stare Media, provides superior educational opportunities for realtors and entrepreneurs on how to become authorities within their respective fields through the use of highly-engaging short-form videos. Deeply passionate about helping others obtain their loftiest financial goals, John's ongoing mission is to enlighten his audience and enable them to achieve financial independence.

https://www.facebook.com/johnmendezrealtor1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnmendezrealtor/

https://www.instagram.com/johnmendez_realtor/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVl4klk4WqB29SCFwR7MITg

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/walk-2-wealth/id1603023398?uo=4

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I love inspiring women to think bigger and build relationships with people they've only dreamed of, people who will change their business, their life, and their bank balance forever. We use LinkedIn as the tool, it's a simple and powerful strategy, and so many women are overlooking this amazing opportunity! 
I also focus on using LinkedIn to build relationships with journalists, who writes about what you're expert in and are they quoting YOU in their articles? 

I enthusiastically promote every show I'm interviewed on to my social audience of over 150,000 and to my newsletter list. Both are ever-growing in numbers!

https://karenyankovich.com/

https://www.facebook.com/karenyankovich

https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenyankovich/

https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-girls-get-rich-podcast/id1308227233?uo=4

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

The Content Game is Intense with Third Party Data restrictions. New privacy laws and growing competition. 

So what is the answer to generating more leads? Nothing less than fresh, original, and engaging content. But who's got time to create content, much less launch it across every platform in the appropriate format?

The answer? A customer-focused, tactical, technology-driven plan for radical content creation and repurposing that will land your content on Page 1 of Google.

Atiba de Souza is the Content Superman. Decades of running an exclusive agency combined with hardcore technical skills -- I'm talking CODE, people, REAL CODE! -- have made him one of the few people with the skills and insight to marry emerging software and Google’s algorithm with an intuitive feel for the culture of every social media platform.

His clients call him the SEO Super Sleuth, the Business Ninja, the “Build Your Team” Guru, and the Super Connector!

He was killing Search Engine Optimization (SEO) before the term was even invented, ranking regional and national brands in the US on page 1 of Google for over 15 years.

His content strategies are not just bells and whistles; his vision is inspiring and his voice is thunderous in the B2B SEO space. 

Kasim Aslam, owner of the  #1 rated Google Ads Agency in the US was blown away by his tech-backed ingenious process, “Nobody else is doing this. You’ve got stuff people need to hear, ” he told him.


Not even the best of the best can say that they ranked more than 3000 pages on the first page of Google results while helping companies enjoy qualified leads. 

Atiba’s experience and insights are so mind-boggling that Lauren Petrullo of Mongoose Media believes that there is “brilliance oozing out of his pores”

This Superman CEO of a Video Marketing Agency has been featured on many renowned platforms including Traffic & Conversion Summitt, Digital Marketer Blog, Fox, Digital Journals, The Times, & USA Today.


It's time to grab the content marketing bull by the horns! And Atiba is your man.

https://clientattractionpros.com/

https://www.facebook.com/groups/traffickeys

https://www.linkedin.com/in/atibadesouza/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCoEGC8wJj2WjotcfFU8Xudg

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I have two brands: 1) future of media / content, 2) career skills. Media / interview kits available for both. I'm an experienced guest (100+ podcast appearances and promote all episodes I appear on.) 
 

Media/Content
I’ve done B2B2 lead gen ($60+ million a year), email marketing (500+ million emails a year), am a published author, and run Cognosco Media which has a new patent pending content distribution platform. I speak bout the future of media and non-linear content.

Audience: content marketers, content creators, authors, podcasters, influencers.

https://www.cognoscomedia.com/articles

https://brainbumpapp.com


Career
Mark has been teaching at MIT’s famed Career Success Accelerator for 20 years and wrote The Career Toolkit: Essential Skills for Success That No One Taught You in addition to building multiple startup companies as a CTO. He can speak skills for entrepreneurs and employees alike

Audience: while collar workers, executives, entrepreneurs, solopreneurs, HR, students, parents.

Topics: career plans, networking, negotiating, leadership interviewing, working effectively, communication, ethics, management. I also talk about about how companies can use the techniques we created at MIT to instill these skills into their organizations.

https://www.thecareertoolkitbook.com

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

He is a Content Creator and Marketing Strategist that specializes in helping entrepreneurs create content that drives consistent growth for their business. Since 2013, he has published 1,000+ pieces of content online, driving millions of visitors, 100,000+ leads, and 30,000+ customers for various software and online education companies. 
From 2016-2019, Tyler worked as the Content Marketing Manager (Employee #12) for Thinkific, helping them to become one of the fastest-growing software companies and leaders in the online education industry. 

Today, Tyler provides online training and consulting services to help other startup founders and entrepreneurs create educational workshops and online training to attract and retain more clients for their businesses.

His insights have been featured on dozens of online publications including Entrepreneur, Foundr, Influencive, Sumo, and Funnel Magazine.

https://tylerbasu.com/

https://www.facebook.com/tyler.basu/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tylerbasu/

https://www.instagram.com/tyler.basu/

https://twitter.com/tylerbasu

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Thanks for checking this out.  I am a semi-retired entrepreneur from the UK with several decades of starting and in one case scaling businesses.  This was from kitchen table up as a single Mum. 
I have a passion for supporting other entrepreneurs who want to start-up or scale and have been involved in many campaigns to do just that through my working life.

I am now an author, with my first book out with Bloomsbury, Scale for Success and Start for Success out 25th January 2023
• T can talk of my own career, what worked and what didn’t in start-ups and scaling
• Discuss how to start to grow 
• Why the leap between 1-10m
• Discuss funding options, sales and marketing, leadership and culture for successful businesses
• Remind your audience of how to build value and why its so important
• Discuss why burnout is a danger and mental health risks generally to entrepreneurs
• Talk of juggling parenthood and entrepreneurship
• Why entrepreneurship is more vital than ever in 2023

https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/1739191005/ref=dbs_a_def_rwt_bibl_vppi_i2

https://jancavelle.co.uk/

https://twitter.com/jancavelle

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jancavelle/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

November 14, 2013, Larry sat on his couch after a solid two-week bender crying and watching a tragic scene in one of his favorite movies over and over again when something spoke to him and said “Get help today, or tomorrow isn’t going to happen”. He had already been in the hospital earlier that year for alcohol poisoning and this time he was even beyond his initial “rock bottom moment”. In this moment of clarity, Larry reached out to a best friend and told him, “I need help, or I’m going to die.” 
Larry woke up several days later in the hospital in McKinney after being admitted to the Enterhealth Ranch in Van Alstyne in very unstable condition. They were unable to stabilize his vitals, and after several failed efforts, an ambulance was called.

After being rehydrated and somewhat stabilized over the course of three days, Larry was sent back to Enterhealth where he continued recovery in their detox wing for roughly a week. The following 6 weeks were spent getting sober while going through their program. Larry has now been sober 8 years amongst becoming a successful podcaster, content creator, and entrepreneur.

Though sober, Larry had caused significant damage to his nervous system and as a result, was in constant pain, even to the point of walking with a cane for more than a year.

To combat this chronic pain, he was on a non-opioid cocktail of medications, which at one point was up to 32 pills a day. It took several years to slowly make progress towards getting the pain under control, but a side effect of the medication and inactivity led to a tremendous amount of weight gain, his peak reaching 326lbs.

After leaving a 21-year corporate career on January 4th of 2021, Larry managed to take himself off ALL of the medications and as of writing this on 12/18/21, is down 82lbs to 244lbs.

Immediately blown away at this versatile, innovative, wild west of a medium, Larry quickly became obsessed with learning how to start his own show. Before he knew what happened, his first podcast episode with a local comedian and family friend as a co-host was launched.

The show was a hit on a variety of platforms, from the podcast to online radio with Deep Ellum onAir, to a live stage show at Hat Tricks in Lewisville. To this day Hat Tricks continues to host one of the largest comedy open mics outside of a comedy club in the metroplex, and it all spawned from that original show.

The show featured a random selection of guests covering a wide variety of topics that Larry found interesting. The issue was that it didn’t speak to a particular audience, so he struggled to find listeners and get those coveted downloads that are critical to the success of any podcast.

Over the next several years, the podcast has continued to evolve and has found its place in the top 1.5% of all podcasts with a focus on entrepreneurship and self-mastery. With this focus, Larry recently rebranded the podcast from Readily Random with Larry Roberts to You’re the Boss.

https://readilyrandom.com/

https://www.facebook.com/larrynroberts/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/larrynroberts/

https://www.instagram.com/thelarryroberts/

https://twitter.com/iamlarryroberts

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Raychel Perman is the Co-Founder of RAYMA Team™, LLC, a Certified Professional Life Coach, Best Selling Author, Licensed Esthetician, and holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Psychology and Christian Counseling from Liberty University. As an entrepreneur with the heart of a teacher she believes that brokenness, trauma, health challenges, and past mistakes do not disqualify you from living and leading well. They prepare you. 

With nearly a decade of experience in the coaching and personal growth industry she specializes in helping leaders build confidence & resilience so they can lead strong teams and create healthy businesses. 

Perman lives in North Dakota with her husband Josh, three children, and three fur babies. When she is not revolutionizing leadership development, you can find her playing taxi to her busy kids, reading a good novel, or digging in her flower beds. She is a coffee lover, gemstone jewelry collector, obsessed with Britain's royal families, and a big fan of rocking the boat. 

https://www.raymateam.com/rplinks

https://www.facebook.com/raymateam/

https://www.instagram.com/raychelperman/

https://twitter.com/raychelperman

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Marco Torres is the Founder of MarketingBoost.com, he has helped thousands of business owners worldwide boost sales and scale their businesses by as much as 5-fold through the use of incentive-based marketing. He teaches entrepreneurs how to soar sales & marketing through the use of “Value-Add-Incentives” instead of discounts. His Facebook Groups combined are home to more than 80,000 active business owners who are raking in sales with his advice and amazingly affordable travel incentive subscription program. 

He was recently interviewed on Entrepreneurs on Fire with John Lee Dumas about Value Add Incentives vs Discounting Prices.  He is the Co-Founder of Marketingboost.com. He has taught thousands of entrepreneurs how to Improve Sales & Marketing.  
 

If you would like to connect with Marco, please click on the links below.

https://www.marketingboost.com

https://www.facebook.com/groups/marketingboostofficial

https://www.linkedin.com/in/6101960marcotorres/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0Ge98RukWA28p25gPnf-eA

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Being a guest on your podcast is NOT just about teaching lessons, bringing guidance, or giving your listeners the next "big tip" that will "transform" their lives. Rather, It's about taking them on an adventure that they will remember. 

I do that by enticing your listener as we take them down a journey via story-form that will entrance your audience to want more and more; while at the same time getting them in the space / place where they can absorb more.

With over 30 years of experience as a speaker and teacher,  and having 14,000+ hours on stages around the globe; I know that what makes something "The Greatest Show" is when it is knowledgeable, interesting and FUN!

If you would like to connect with Dr. Travis Fox, please click on the links below.

https://ultimatebusinessquest.com/

https://www.facebook.com/travisfox.1121

https://www.linkedin.com/in/travisfox/

https://www.instagram.com/travisfox360/

https://twitter.com/travisfox360

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

As a musician, creative coach, author and podcaster, I strive to help creatives in all walks of life to harness the essential tools to impact the world while living in harmony, abundance and in line with timeless principles. I've built multiple brands and creative platforms, written 4 books and resources, and run a successful faith-centered creative platform, God and Gigs, while coaching others to do the same with their gifts. 

If you would like to connect or learn more about Allen, please check out the links below.

https://www.allencpaul.com/

https://www.facebook.com/acpwrites

https://www.linkedin.com/in/allencpaul/

https://www.instagram.com/allencpaul/

https://twitter.com/allencpaul

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpJdS9WR8Au6Bbg5CnrsEgQ

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

America’s only Chief Results Officer® He’s always loved to help people get results and he knows which habits bring success and results, how to create them instantly and stick with them for a lifetime. 
- A leading authority in Personal Implementation & Consistency
- Habit Master with documented streak of 1453 days in a row and counting!
- A TEDx Speaker with over 190,000 views
- A LinkedIn Top Connector – over 25,000 first level connections (1.7 Million 2nd level, 786 Million 3rd level)
- Lifetime Work-from-Home Entrepreneur
- Graduate of Purdue University & Stanford University’s Social Entrepreneurship Program
- Co-Authored of 3 Books & frequent podcast guest
- Oversees over 20,000 weekly personal implementation check-ins per year

If you would like to connect with Blaine, check out the links below.

http://selfluence.com/

https://www.facebook.com/chiefresultsofficer

https://www.linkedin.com/in/blaineoelkers/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

She is an anthropologist, author, and serial entrepreneur who works with business leaders to scale their impact and income while managing imposter syndrome.  She is also the author of the award-winning book “Stories of Elders” and creator of the Stories of COVID research which documents the pandemic in real time. She has been featured on the Forbes NEXT 1,000 and BEQ's 40 LGBTQ Leaders Under 40 lists and has presented her research at two TEDx events.

If you would like to connect with Veronica check out the links below.

https://veronicakirin.com/

https://www.facebook.com/veronicakirin

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vmkirin/

https://www.instagram.com/vmkirin/

https://twitter.com/vmkirin

https://www.youtube.com/veronicakirindisrupter

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Paul Halme went from working as a stock broker for a major Wall Street firm to Entrepreneur.  He now specializes in helping Entrepreneurs fix their finances and then buy assets to create passive income.

If you would like to connect with Paul check out the links below.

https://paulhalme.com/

https://www.facebook.com/paul.halme

https://www.instagram.com/paul.halme/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Kyle Gillette has helped small business owners and leaders around the world to take their businesses from good to great. He is an ICF certified coach, behavioral analyst, and creator of the SAGE Mindset Leadership framework that helps people gain clarity, build confidence, and generate new clientele. 

As a mindset coach who specializes in helping clients understand how their thoughts affect their lives and business, Kyle understands what it takes for someone’s mindset to change.

His focus is on helping his clients build powerful self-awareness in their life and business. Create extreme accountability to achieve big goals, dreams, and results with a mindset of growth that fosters empowerment for others so they can have the most influence possible!

He’s the host of the SAGE Mindset™ podcast, developer of the SAGE Leadership Framework™ the SAGE Mindset App, and owner of Gillette Solutions - a coaching and consulting organization.

He has a total social following of over 8000 and is experienced in promoting other podcasts to help you get your name out there. 

If you would like to connect with Kyle click the links below.

https://sagemindset.com/

https://www.facebook.com/KyleGillette83

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kyle-gillette/

https://twitter.com/sagemindset

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

20 years experience speaking internationally, executive coaching, mindset and marketing expert: I work with small business owners to help them understand digital marketing and automation so that they can regain the freedom and profits that they went into business to discover. If you would like to know more about Michelle, check out the links below.

https://www.awarenessstrategies.com/website-audit/

https://www.facebook.com/michelle.nedelec1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/michellenedelec/

https://www.youtube.com/c/MichelleNedelec

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Kurian Mathew Tharakan is the founder of the sales and marketing strategy firm StrategyPeak Sales & Marketing Advisors and a 27-year veteran of the sales and marketing industry. He has consulted for companies in numerous sectors. Mr. Tharakan is also the author of the Amazon Bestseller, “The 7 Essential Stories Charismatic Leaders Tell,” which details how anyone can move people and mountains with the power of story.

If you would like to connect with Kurian click on the links below.

https://strategypeak.com/

https://twitter.com/KurianTharakan

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kuriantharakan/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Since retiring as COO of a 230 person consulting company, Rick has started a on-line coaching, consulting and products company.  The overall goal of CI4life is to help people achieve their professional and personal goals. He has published two courses on Teachable: Millennial Money and Crush your goals for Small business.  He has also written two books; The latest one is called: "The truth about being a RainMaker- 7 principles for Sales Excellence". This book is the story of how Rick 100x his consulting company over a 10 year period.  More details about the books and courses are below:

I also wrote a book called: "Live Your Purpose- a step by step guide to live your best Life".  It captures a comprehensive personal improvement system which includes:
1. Developing a purpose statement
2. A Goal Achievement process
3.  Weekly and Daily Planning habits to optimize your life.
4. The importance and power of deliberate practice.
5.  How to handle setbacks and discouragement along the path to greatness.  
 including chapters on Gratitude, Mindfulness and Acceptance.

I sell a Planner on Amazon that help people live the practices taught in "Live your purpose". It is called "Live your best life planner".

I also have a successful on-line training course for small business owners. I have captured what I have learned from 35 years of productivity improvement consulting and developed a course for small business owners/leaders to improve their performance by 20+%.
My course on Millennial Money is 8 videos helping millennials set up their careers and investments to become multi-millionaires and achieve financial security.
My Rainmaker book, podcast and course is teaching principles to help sales professionals and entrepreneurs grow their sales and revenues. My new rainmaker Instagram account is "the_salesrainmaker".  The subscription only podcast for Sales professionals is on:

 http://www.patron.podbean.com/rainmaker

https://ci4life.org/

https://www.facebook.com/CI4lifer/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rickheyland/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Rob Broadhead is a professional software developer based in Nashville, Tennessee. His passions are broad, but he often is drawn to both sides of coaching and mentor relationships. This led him to launch the Develpreneur.com site in 2016 and adding a podcast in 2017. Then he added a YouTube Channel in 2019. The focus of the blog and episodes are helping developers advance in their career by learning from his successes and mistakes. 

He founded RB Consulting as a software development and implementation consulting company. However, after witnessing a significant number of poorly planned and designed projects, he altered the business focus. The primary focus is on helping customers put together well-designed project plans and navigating the vast sea of technology. This includes building teams/departments to address IT needs in the future as well as for today. There is also still a software development wing of the company and implementation consulting.

https://rb-sns.com/RB/blog/

https://www.facebook.com/Develpreneur/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbroadhead/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCZOuFN_LhczvGyT2KSItH_g

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

He has been speaking and performing on the live stage since the age of 6, that’s over 53 years ago. 
Steve is a multi-award-winning speaker, 3x #1 best-selling author, and master-trainer for high-impact speakers with a track record that speaks for itself. Having given over 3500 keynote speeches, 5000 seminars, and trained more than 500K speakers globally, Steve delivers innovative strategies that help speakers drive revenue from the stage and build wealth through speaking.

A sought-after speaker, podcast guest and mentor, Steve shares the stage with such legends as Jack Canfield , Kevin Harrington and Brian Tracy.

Together with his wife, Jayne he travels the world speaking, training, and mentoring those who have a message to share and monetize through the spoken word.

https://stevelowell.com/

https://www.espeakers.com/marketplace/profile/20842

https://www.facebook.com/steve.lowell/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevelowell/

https://www.youtube.com/stevelowell
 

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

He is an Emmy® Award-winning Media Advisor who helps clients leverage their media exposure, find fame, and make impact. 

Vinnie is the Editor-in-chief of I Have A Podcast® and is responsible for discovering and amplifying the voice of independent podcasters worldwide. 

As a network executive at MTV Networks (98-07) he discovered talent and developed new ways to support their goals, pioneering the way brands and business owners could contribute to their public narrative by making them stars and producers of their own television series. Early hits include Punk’d, The Osbournes, TRL, 8th & Ocean, Wild 'N Out, & The Challenge. Since then, he and his team at VPE.tv have continued to be well-trusted connectors who develop and distribute original content across all media platforms. Especially podcasts! 

https://ihaveapodcast.com/

https://www.facebook.com/VPEtalent

https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinniepotestivo/

https://www.youtube.com/vpetv

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I've been helping entrepreneurs and business owners start and scale their companies for over 15 years. I've written a book about entrepreneurship and taught a workshop I created at universities such as UPenns' Wharton school of business. Besides my business podcast I also have a thriving YouTube channel, and have spoken at many events in the past. 
I can speak about many topics whether technology, marketing, business, and everything in between. Listeners will get real life examples from the experiences that I've had throughout the years. I don't like to give cookie cutter answers to questions, I would much rather tell a story, and I have a ton of them.

I sold one of my businesses in 2012 and have raised money for others. My award winning films are distributed worldwide, my tech startups have won awards, and I've picked up a variety of skills along the way that I'd be happy to share on your podcast.

You can learn more about me at 

https://JasonSherman.org

https://www.facebook.com/authorjasonsherman/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonsherman76/

https://www.youtube.com/jasonsherman76

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Tell brand stories with market appeal. Helping professionals define their brand stories and tell them to the marketplace to guide audiences from awareness to customers. Currently, building a media empire one piece of content at a time for people to tell their stories to help others create an appealing life, career, or business. 

Publish the Digital Magazines - APeeling and CurbAPeel
Host a Podcast and Video Channel called BrandAPeel Brand Storytelling in the Digital World
Publish a Blog called UnPeeled 
Publish a workbook called Creating MarketAPeel 

https://www.marketapeel.agency/

https://www.facebook.com/MarketAPeel/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannonpeel/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Tonya Eberhart is the founder of BrandFace® and Branding Agent to Business Stars. She’s also the author of four books on personal branding.  Tonya’s humble career began while selling vacuum cleaners door to door to pay her way through college.  That led to a job in radio, where she observed local business owners who were featured in their own advertising and positioned as local celebrities in the market. That’s when she realized the power that personal branding has on a business. Almost two decades and many successful brands later, she founded BrandFace®, a personal branding firm consisting of four personal branding books, a speaking series, and personal branding programs that are designed to help serious professionals differentiate themselves.  

Michael Carr is America’s Top Selling Real Estate Auctioneer and the Abundant Life Broker. During his 28 years of experience, he has been actively involved in over 78,000 transactions and licensed in as many as 31 states in the continental U.S. as a broker and an auctioneer..  Michael first met Tonya in 2013 when he became a client. He immediately put her exclusive personal branding concepts to work at his own brokerage, and as a result, his real estate business quadrupled over the next year, and continues to grow in recognition, revenue and recruitment.  On the heels of that success, they decided to co-author BrandFace® for Real Estate Professionals, which became a #1 international bestseller on Amazon.  And today, he is a partner and the COO of BrandFace®. If you want to know more about Tonya and Michael click the links below.

https://brandfacestar.com/

https://www.facebook.com/brandfacestar

https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonyaeberhart/

https://www.youtube.com/brandfacestar

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Mathew Passy is a Podcast Producer/Consultant at ThePodcastConsultant.com, a podcast agency that helps individuals, brands, and small businesses develop, launch, produce, and promote podcasts. He is also behind AuditMyPodcast and InstantPodcastAudit, a service offering a full review of podcasters production, search ability, discoverability, marketing and more in order to ensure they’re not hindering their ability to succeed.  Mathew is also launching Towncast.co, a platform designed to put all locally sourced content creators in a single space.  Hosts Podcast Me Anything, Causepods, and co-host of Jersey Jobs and Biz.

https://thepodcastconsultant.com/

https://www.facebook.com/MathewPassy

https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathewpassy/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

After accidentally ending up in the global spotlight for her unique identical twins, she was forced to create & grow a brand on the fly. She knew she needed to harness the power of the publicity they were getting. Fast forward 15 years, and now by combining her formal education with the real-world knowledge gained from her family’s growth toward global brand awareness, she has a deep understanding of how to help brands clearly communicate their stories, increase their influence & reduce the chaos experienced in the journey of being known, and she does so with proven Branding & Marketing frameworks and strategic PR.

https://chrissybernal.com/

https://www.facebook.com/Chrissybernal/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrissybernal/

https://www.instagram.com/chrissybernal/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Per, aka “The Price Whisperer”, is a thought leader and author in everything pricing and how companies can use pricing to drive higher growth, sales volume, and profits. He is a sought-after speaker for various conferences, appears regularly on podcasts and business radio shows, and gets routinely quoted in the financial and business press.

If you would like to know more about Per, “The Price Whisperer” check out the links below

https://sjofors.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/persjofors/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Born and raised in Hong Kong, Swire immigrated to Los Angeles in 1996. He is a proud Chinese American who speaks Cantonese, Mandarin and English. He trained as a sound engineer, working at recording studios and entertainment agencies before starting his own firm, Hellman Production, Inc, 2003 in Los Angeles. Swire and his team successfully produced attractive, personalized DVD and CD cases and custom merchandise like T-shirts, earning a Score award in 2009, for small business success. His business eventually grew so popular, he decided to sell Hellman Production in 2013 to focus exclusively on the promotional product industry. 

If you would like to connect with Swire check out the links below.

https://www.garudapromo.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/swire-ho-thepromoguy-6b90631/

https://www.facebook.com/garudapromo

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Curt Tueffert is a professional speaker, professor, author, podcast host, and frequent podcast guest.  His combination of content plus high energy makes him an easy choice for subject matter expert in sales, marketing, leadership, customer service, and more. 
Curt's work has earned him a Stevie award as well as other accolades.  As the VP of Sales Development for a $1B Industrial Distributor, Curt works his skills daily on the front lines of sales and marketing.

http://www.ineedyourmailbox.com/grow2020

http://www.peaksalesstrategy.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/curttueffert/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Patrick is a serial entrepreneur and investor turned mentor. He has personally coached hundreds of CEO’s & organizations and their employees as a sought-after industry expert business mentor and certified exit planning advisor. 
Through his 'Exitable Business" Methodology, he helps CEO's transform their companies into highly profitable entities that are strategically positioned for a successful and profitable exit.

If you want to learn more about Patrick and what he does click the link below:

https://exitable.io/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Named Top Business Coach of the Decade and Top 20 Women Business Coach, Christine helps small business owners to grow a companies that are not only high revenue, but that will sell for a higher multiple when it's time to transition out. As a Certified Psychological Safety Coach, Christine helps leaders build a culture of safety in their organization to make their company the one employees will stay with even, when they get better offers from the competition. As a bonus, they'll also reduce the risk of sexual harassment in their organization.
And as an Award-winning author with a vision for a #NewNormal free from gender based violence and discrimination, Christine helps audiences know what they can do now to help create a safer world for women and girls. 

If you would like to get more information abut Christina check out the links below.

https://coachchristinerose.com/

https://www.facebook.com/christinerose.coach

https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachchristinerose/

https://www.instagram.com/coachchristinerose/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I am not your typical stodgy lawyer that loves golf. I hate golf and I really dislike a lot of lawyers because there is a selection bias for sociopaths in the law. Trust me, I've been in the trenches for over thirty years!. 
That said, I do not really practice much anymore because I had a midlife crisis and started a law firm, Davis Business Law. I am the CEO, sole owner and with my team we put it on the Inc 5000 list We will keep it there because we are still growing with seven offices and counting!

In the meanwhile, Inc magazine published my first book "The Art of Preventing Stupid." It is about teaching entrepreneurs skills to prevent stupid business mistakes and proactively protect their companies. We did a podcast based on it too.

I was a heavy metal guitarist in my teenage years, but decided to apply myself in college and go to law school. While I look like a middle aged lawyer, I bring a lot of irreverence and intolerance for stupid authority to the table. If you want to connect with Matt check out the links below.

https://davisbusinesslaw.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewneilldavis/

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I believe that everyone has a story to tell. Most people shy away from telling their stories because they fear criticism. But, I help people to discover their signature stories, develop them and then deliver them with confidence.

https://robertkennedy3.com/

https://www.youtube.com/robertkennedy3

https://www.facebook.com/robertkennedy3

https://www.linkedin.com/in/robertkennedy3/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

As a fellow podcast host, and well known in the internet marketing industry, with a sizable following, I know that the value a guest could bring to your audience is the biggest factor when vetting potential guests. 
So that's what I'm leading with: value. Specializing in SEO, YouTube, and podcasting, I shout from the rooftops how anyone can "break free of the matrix" and learn to create their own income. If you would like to know more about Chris just Click the links below.
 

https://bloggerevolution.com/

https://www.facebook.com/benjisdad/

https://www.youtube.com/c/benjisdad

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

After enduring 15 surgeries on my vocal cords, nearly losing the ability to speak permanently, I make sure the words I use matter to your listeners. 
The ideas we'll talk about, and the stories I can share, will help them reimagine the way they perform. By using a lense of experience from both the corporate world, and the world of a professional entertainer, I help audiences from every background connect with these ideas. 

When we speak, it's not to sell something but rather to share an understanding of how we look at the world of work, our mindset, and how those perceptions and perspectives impact performance. 

We're here to do more than just make money (though, money is important) - we're here to make an impact. How your audience performs on a daily basis is what creates the foundation for their impact. 

We can be part of that conversation, together, and have fun in the process. I look forward to speaking with you!

If you would like to connect with Greg check out the links below.

https://www.gregoryoffner.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoffnerjr/

https://www.youtube.com/c/GregoryOffnerJr/videos

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Most people want to be a difference maker but they are disconnected from their unique talents. Which is why we are experiencing "The Great Resignation" after the pandemic.  During my 25 years leading various teams in operations and marketing at Southwest Airlines, I learned about  a lot of resources for development, but none as effective as Gallup's CliftonStrengths.  I then became a Gallup Certified Strength Coach and went on to Coach many folks in my department and helped develop a roadmap for building a strengths based culture, at Southwest Airlines.  During 2020, I stepped out of corporate and  founded my own consulting business helping entrepreneurs and leaders build a strengths based culture by helping them transform their life and their company from the inside out. If you want to know more about Dana click the links below.

https://www.danawilliamsco.com/

https://www.facebook.com/danawilliamsconsulting

https://www.linkedin.com/in/danawilliams2/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Many leaders feel in over their head in their role or in their organization. Is there a roadmap anywhere to help you grow as a leader? How can I avoid the ditches that other leaders have fallen into? In his new book, Dr. William Attaway gleans from his own personal leadership experience as well as the experience of hundreds of leaders he has coached, and he shares 12 key principles that can help leaders grow and add value to those they lead today, no matter where they are.

https://catalyticleadership.net/

https://www.facebook.com/williamattaway

https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamattaway/

https://www.instagram.com/wattaway/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Dr. Vic is a former Certified Pediatric Chiropractor who has become a business mindset coach. 
He is the author of 3 books, which is most recent, "Decoding The Matrix," which is coming out May 31st, 2022.  

Dr. Vic is the creator and owner of The Mindful Experiment Podcast which has been ranked in the top 1% of podcasts globally from ListenNotes.com.

He has a unique and diverse background that allows him to help his clients become more whole and lead a more fulfilled life through leveraging one's own minds and reframing one's mindsets.

Dr. Vic does this through helping his clients become aware of their limiting beliefs, habits, standards and the stories they tell themselves.  Once they are aware, then he shares how they can reframe, change and create beliefs that support their dream life. 

https://www.empoweryourreality.com/

https://www.facebook.com/DrVicManzo/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/drmanzo/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC8pScwgi_XUIT2hphCuv9uQ

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

How do we make the big decisions?

1: How the others in your industry handle the same decisions

2: Seek wise council

3: Pray Lord make it obvious or take it away

Please check out my NEW YouTube  channel "Xpansion Code Radio" where I show small snippets from my podcast. 

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCcVYzjRI9v-BCnSeB_mw-jA

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! 

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

"I believe the next Elon Musk is a 7 year old girl who can't afford a communication coach, so it's my duty to help her succeed with my free resources." - Brenden K. 

After many years of doing presentation case competitions (think professional sports for nerds) in university, I accidentally developed a skill in helping others communicate effectively and started the YouTube channel "Master Talk" because I realized that everything I was teaching them wasn't available for FREE on the Internet. I heard a ton of advice that didn't make much sense like "be yourself" or "get up on stage" or better "imagine everyone in their underpants". I pressed record on my phone, started filming videos on communication in my mom's basement and now the goal is to help everyone master this important skill.

https://www.youtube.com/c/MasterTalks

https://www.rockstarcommunicator.com/?r_done=1

https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendenkumarasamy/

https://www.instagram.com/masteryourtalk/

https://www.facebook.com/mastertalkyt

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! 

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

How I Sold My Pharmacy Businesses To Travel The World And Help Retail Business Owners Improve Their Profit & Cashflow 
I have had an exciting journey buying and selling multiple Pharmacy Businesses in Australia over the past 16 years.  
Trained as a Pharmacist in Melbourne, Australia, I bought my first business as a partnership a few years after I graduated from University.  As a Pharmacist, you are trained as a clinician, not how to run a business.  With the help of Coaches and Mentors, and a feverish appetite for FREEDOM & ADVENTURE, I quickly learnt how to utilize systems and leverage to ensure these businesses were fulfilling my lifestyle goals.
Ultimately, I discovered it boils down to implementing the basics in your business, focusing on CASHFLOW and PROFIT and from day one setting everything up so the business runs without ME.
Now, I have sold all my businesses and focusing on travelling the world (currently in EUROPE!) and helping other Retail  Business Owners!

https://www.facebook.com/alvin.narsey.7

https://www.linkedin.com/in/alvinnarsey/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCkZmfKmb4l9VYbCZ2IH8WGA

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I have a YouTube channel that has snippets from my podcast. Check it out! 

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

The entrepreneurial bug bit me when I started flipping sports cards to friends and at local collectors shows when I was just 13 years old and I never looked back. The path has most definitely been winding - filled with obstacles, pivots, and the unexpected loss of my last corporate job. But throughout that time, I’ve also experienced growth, evolution, victories, and the privilege of partnering and collaborating with like-minded professionals who share my passions and beliefs. 

Today, I’m all in on personal branding and utilizing podcasts to do it. I help other entrepreneurs and professionals leverage the brand-building power of the podcast medium to establish authority, increase visibility, and accelerate the evolution of their personal brand. I'm also the host of Evolution of Brand, a podcast dedicated to sharing stories & strategies from authentic entrepreneurs and professionals.

https://jasoncercone.com/

https://www.youtube.com/jasoncercone

https://www.facebook.com/jason.cercone

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasoncercone/

https://www.instagram.com/jasoncercone/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I am the author of the book: UpSolutions - Turning Your Team into Heroes and Customers into Raving Fans; and am the owner of Maranet Inc., the creator of the Profit Generator Program* and the Breaking Through Barriers Program*. 
I have worked with hundreds of entrepreneurial operated businesses to reposition them for success and dramatically increase their profit.

Speaking topics:
• The opportunity in change – using crisis to reinvent your business and emerge as a market leader.
• Reinventing During Disruptive Times – Creating UpSolutions to evolving customer needs.
• Your customers are always talking to you, are you listening? How to turn your customers into your own Business Growth Catalyst.

https://www.pattimara.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pattimara

https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattimara/

https://www.instagram.com/patti.mara/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

I am the CFO, Founder & Co-Host of Next Level University, a Global Top 100 Self-Improvement podcast with more than 1000 episodes reaching over half a million people in more than 125 countries.

Some people find rock bottom... I found out that rock bottom has a basement.

In my mid 20's... I had it all. A beautiful girlfriend, a high paying job, a sports car, my dream body... but I still ended up sitting on the edge of a bed debating suicide... several times.

After my rock bottom moment, I went all in on self improvement, I was determined to overcome my anxiety, to overcome my depression. I was determined to live my dream life.

I believe in a heart driven, but no BS approach to holistic self improvement and teaching others how to get to the next level of their lives!

I love talking about Consistency, Commitment, Habits, Mindset, Confidence, Fear, Relationships and Limiting Beliefs. We talk about so many pieces of self improvement so I'm happy to explore many topics!

https://www.nextleveluniverse.com/

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBo--QvPHbGOrO13C0Xyybg

https://www.facebook.com/kevin.palmieri.90/

https://www.instagram.com/neverquitkid/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-palmieri-5b7736160/

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Every business needs to have an organizational structure and a chart.

What is an organizational chart?

An organizational chart is a diagram that visually conveys a company's internal structure by detailing the roles, responsibilities, and relationships between individuals within the business.

Why is this so important?

Story about going from 2 stores to 5 stores.

Store about manager complaining about an employee.

The internal structure of a business is what keeps it strong.

Stay in your lane. Only come out of your lane when both parties agree. It is only temporary and has a time limit.

If you change role in your business, it has to be communicated to everyone verbally and written.

Story about not having internal structure.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

If you want to learn more about Pete click the link below.

https://simplifyingentrepreneurship.com/

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

“If, by the title alone, you’re thinking that this book sounds unconventional;

you’re right. It isn’t for the faint of heart, if we’re being honest, because its

sole purpose is revisiting many of the most embarrassing, traumatic, and

wish-you-could-forget moments from your dumpster fire of a love life –

then applying all those painful lessons directly to your professional life.

Even if your life took the “marry my high school sweetheart” track, it’s not

always been wine and roses, I’d bet, so pony up and let’s ride.

“You see, my contention is that relationships, regardless of their context,

follow predictable patterns. And, as you’ll hopefully learn throughout this

inked masterpiece, there is no point in learning a lesson twice. If you’ve

learned it in one area of life, that knowledge (and by knowledge, I mean

“shame, embarrassment, guilt, joy, heartbreak, and butterflies”) can be

applied to virtually any other situation.

“Truth is, we are always learning – like it or not. And, as much as I hate to

admit it, we likely learn the most when things go wrong. The more wrong,

the more learning, I suppose. Through dips and turns, twists of fate, and

the retelling of some of my own guilt-soaked illustrations, we’re going to

cling to failure and use it as the very manure which will grow you into the

success that you’ve always dreamed of being.

”Whether you’re a business owner, business manager, or even an aspiring

troubadour, there’s something to be learned between the covers of this

wit-filled text. So, grab a beer. You may need it. This raw (sometimes very

raw) journey is going to need some honesty. I’ll start the conversation, but

it is ultimately yours to finish. Introspect and reminisce – and judge if you

must – but, at this point, we’re just a couple of friends having a beer and

discussing life.”

Date Your Clients is a step-by-step juxtaposition

between the relational skills required in dating and

those required to be successful in business. With

chapter titles such as, The First Date, Meeting the Family,

and The First Fight, the author seamlessly weaves his

way through the complicated landscape of relationships

and provides humourous illustrations of life’s worst

moments

https://dateyourclients.com/

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

1. Tell me a little bit about yourself?
2. How did you get into the marketing business?
3. What are the marketing fundamentals?
4. How can I zero in on my ideal clients?
5. What are the biggest mistakes businesses make with their marketing message?
6. How can I create a simple marketing plan that will get results?

rialtomarketing.com

growthmarketingplan.com

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

My trip to New York City last week

Day 1: Travel

Day 2: Shopping and The Tonight Show w/ Jimmy Falon

Day 3: Broadway Show - Harry Potter and the Cursed Child

Day 4: Macy’s and Broadway Show – American Buffalo starring Laurence Fishburne, Sam Rockwell & Darren Criss

Day 5: Pride Parade and Travel.

Your life experiences, good or bad, builds knowledge that you can reflect upon that gives you wisdom that you can apply in the present.

Your life experiences can give you great stories to share, that in turn, may help someone transform their life.

Start a story journal!

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

What is work-life balance?

• It how people manage the time they dedicate to work and the time they spend on other activities.

What is work-life harmony?

• It involves incorporating work into the rest of life in a way that promotes happiness both at home and in the office.

How to Find Work-Life Balance

Workers, students, and those who do both can take several steps toward achieving a healthy work-life balance.

• Create a Dedicated Workspace: Establishing a dedicated space to study and work, whether a desk in a home office or space at your kitchen table, can help you mentally separate work and study time from personal time.
• Establish a Routine: Office workers often have a set routine: listening to a certain podcast on the commute, stopping at a favorite coffeehouse, walking during lunch breaks. Establishing a routine when working from home, such as powering up your computer at a set time and taking regular breaks, can help you separate work and study time from your home life.
• Communicate: If you feel overwhelmed with your workload, be upfront with your supervisor or instructors. If roommates or family members are disrupting your schedule, express your needs to those around you. Clear communication can lead to effective

How to Find Work-Life Harmony

Achieving work-life harmony means reassessing how you integrate your work life into your personal life. They shouldn’t be in competition — they should coexist. These steps can help you start on the path to work-life harmony.

• Be Present: When you’re working, make sure you’re fully engaged with your tasks and activities. Then, put your work responsibilities out of mind when you’re off the clock.
• Set Priorities: Establish goals and priorities for work, school, and home. This will help you focus on the tasks that give you satisfaction, happiness, and a sense of accomplishment.
• Enjoy What You Do: If you’re not already passionate about your work, find purpose in what you do and embrace it. If you can’t, it may be time to explore alternate career or academic And if you don’t have enough personal or family time, make changes to allow for those rewarding experiences.

Benefits of Work-Life Balance and Harmony

Work-life balance and harmony are important on a variety of fronts. In addition to reducing sickness, stress, and burnout, improving one’s work-life balance and harmony also increases happiness and productivity.

• Improved Health: People who feel overworked often experience high levels of stress, and studies have shown that stress hormones can have a negative impact on the body. Chronic stress can trigger headaches, weaken the immune system, and wear you down emotionally. Maintaining work-life balance and harmony can help prevent illness, fatigue, and insomnia.
• Increased Productivity: Individuals who improve their work-life balance and harmony tend to become more productive, both professionally and personally. When people feel less pressured, they’re often better able to complete tasks, whether finishing a big work project, repainting the guest room, or training for a marathon.
• Less Burnout: Maintaining work-life harmony is essential to limiting work-related stress. Consequently, professionals who lack work-life balance and harmony often feel overwhelmed and burned out, which can impact their desire to get things done. Other symptoms of burnout may include moodiness, emotional exhaustion, and reduced performance.

Tips to Regain Control

If you need to improve your work-life balance and harmony, these steps can help you regain control.

• Learn How to Say No: If you already feel overwhelmed with work and are asked to take on a new project, discuss your concerns with your supervisor. If you feel overburdened with obligations in your personal life, it’s OK to cancel plans or decline invitations to social events.
• Accept Your Limits: Do you feel as if you need to accomplish everything by yourself? You don’t. It’s OK to seek help from others. If you’re starting to feel swamped, focus on solving near-term issues first.
• Evaluate Your Time: If you feel overwhelmed, you may be overcommitted. Evaluate how long it takes you to complete various tasks and plan your schedule accordingly. Delegate tasks to others. This can help you focus on the tasks where you excel and that give you a sense of satisfaction.
• Adjust Your Schedule: Balancing work, school, and family obligations — which for parents now often means helping your kids with their own remote learning — can be difficult. If you’re struggling to do it all, ask your boss if you can work during nonstandard business hours. To build harmony, schedule family time that doesn’t involve schoolwork.
• Take Care of Your Health: Make time for exercise, whether walking the dog, hiking with your kids, or practicing yoga. Try to get eight hours of sleep every Physical activity and rest can help your mood, creativity, and productivity.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Did you know that everyone is born with all the potential they will ever need? The key to tapping into your potential is awareness and through awareness you can make changes to your life. I know most people hate but change is the only way to grow.

• You don’t have to have big changes in order to grow and make a difference.
• Your potential can not be reached unless you change.

Your potential is limitless

• Your potential isn’t set
• People think capacity is a limitation
• You are always moving forward

Possibilities only come from awareness

• Attention: Finding the knowledge
• Awareness: Figuring out what you need to know
• Determine: Finding what you need to do and focus on it
• Action: Taking action on what needs to be done.

You can remove your limitations

• Your limitations are mostly setup in your mind
• When we become aware of our limitations, we can start to overcome them.

Develop your potential

• We all have natural gifts
• We all have the capacity to learn
• Develop what you are passionate about

Maximize possibilities with your choices

• Good choices will kick start your momentum
• Momentum can take you farther than you think

Limitations you can’t remove

• Birth limitations
• Life limitations

Limitations you can remove

• Negative self-image
• Know you can become more that you are

Limitations people put on us

• Remove the negative people from your life
• Add more positive people
• Get involved with people who are at the next level

Limitations we put on ourselves

• Approval
• Environment
• Bad role models

What is holding you back?

• Take action now and start living you God given potential
• Remove your limitations
• Believe in yourself

Here is a link to buy John C Maxwell book "The Power of Your Potential: How to Break Through Your Limits"

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

So, what exactly is a "gut feeling"?

Our gut feelings or instincts are similar to our intuition, though often a gut feeling will involve some sort of physical feeling as well—which isn't always the case with intuition.

What is intuition?

A thing that one knows or considers likely from instinctive feeling rather than conscious reasoning.

How can you tell when you're having a gut feeling?

There's a reason it's called a "gut" feeling. That's where you'll probably feel it! According to Swart, "There is often literally a visceral sensation in the gut area—like butterflies in your stomach or just a deep feeling at your core."

What your gut feelings may be trying to tell you:

1. You're in danger.

From an evolutionary perspective, these sorts of extrasensory perceptions may actually have an advantage. Our ability to pick up on a potentially threatening or dangerous situation is certainly a helpful skill, and it's not uncommon to get that sinking feeling when you feel afraid.

2.You're in good company.

Gut feelings aren't always negative! And actually, they can be quite pleasant, indicating something good for you. If you've just met a new person, for example, romantic or non, maybe their presence gives you a very good vibe. Allan says this might feel like "a sensation in your stomach that feels warm and safe and happy."

3.You're getting sick, or something is physically wrong.

Have you ever had a nagging feeling you were getting sick or something was off with your body, and it turned out to be true? We know our bodies better than anyone else and can often pick up on subtle changes and imbalances.

When it comes to anything medical or health-related, the safest bet is to get checked out. If your gut is telling you something is wrong, don't ignore it.

4.You should take the risk you're considering.

Are you feeling the urge to start a new career or move across the country? Sometimes our intuition knows what's right for us before our conscious mind does.

Whatever idea you have for your next big move may seem risky, but if your gut is persistently telling you to take the risk anyway, you may just want to listen. "Often we're raised to override that with our logic," Allan says, but when you bypass your initial gut feeling, she says, it can often lead to distress.

5.You're being manipulated.

And lastly, just as gut feelings can tell us when someone is good for us, they can also tell us when someone is, well, not so good for us. If you're being manipulated in any way, for example, Allan says it can lead to feelings of disgust in the gut.

Can you always trust your gut?

So, are gut feelings foolproof? Unfortunately, no, it's not that simple.

But as you start to listen to your gut and intuition more closely, you'll be able to better distinguish between what's real and what's not.

"You can't remember everything you have experienced in life, but you do store all this wisdom," Swart explains. "Gut feelings are pattern recognition systems designed to keep you safe and well, but sometimes they can hold you back from thriving based on old fears."

What Are Gut Feelings & How Can You Know When To Trust Them?

mbg Spirituality & Relationships Writer -By Sarah Regan

https://www.mindbodygreen.com/articles/gut-feelings-what-they-really-are-when-to-trust-them/

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

What motivates us to learn? As children, we are excited to learn anything

new. Everything seems so interesting and fascinating. However, as adults

we often want to spend our limited time learning only those things that are

most important to us. We usually only have time to receive quick

instructions and then apply what we have learned. Often times our best

learning happens through trial and error. In addition, we all have our own

experiences and preferences that influence our ability and desire to learn.

Understanding these differences and the principles to adult learning will

give you better insight into the techniques that are most effective in training

others.

KEEP IN MIND…

• Adults will learn only what they feel is a need to learn
• Adults learn best in an informal, casual, and interactive environment
• Adult learning centers on realistic problems and real-world experience
• Adults need various learning methods
• Adults learn best by doing, practicing, and using new knowledge/skills
• Adults want feedback and guidance, not grades

There are some key principles to consider when you are conducting

training to adult learners. The following adult learning principles will allow

you to gain an understanding for how adults learn and what motivates them

to learn.

Principle #1: Adults must want to learn the subject.

Adults learn effectively only when they have a strong inner

motivation to develop a new skill or to acquire a particular type of

knowledge.

Principle #2: Adults will learn only what they feel is a “need to learn”.

Adults are practical in their approach to learning. They want to know

how the training will help them immediately, often called “WIIFM”-

What’s In It For Me? If you want an adult to learn, you must teach

him or her simply and directly what he or she wants to know:

Trainers should set expectations for their adult learners. For

example: “This is what you will do, this is how you will do it, and this

is why it works?”

Principle #3: Adults learn best by doing.

Retention of new knowledge or skills is much higher if the adult has

immediate and repeated opportunities to practice or use what they

have learned.

Principle #4: Adult learning centers on realistic problems.

Adults learn much faster if you provide specific problems, draw from

business experience, and work out practical solutions from which

skills may be learned. This is often referred to as discovery learning.

Principle #5: Experiences will impact adult learning.

Adults have had experiences in life which can be both beneficial and

detrimental to the learning situation. What they learned from their

experiences are valuable and can be built upon.

Principle #6: Adults learn best in an informal environment.

Adults prefer to learn in casual and interactive environments. As

opposed to sitting an associate down in an office to discuss new

training, you should create a comfortable and casual environment.

This allows for open communication and an environment where the

learner is comfortable asking questions and soliciting useful

information.

Principle #7: Adults need various different methods of learning.

Remember that we all learn differently. It is important to modify your

teaching technique to compliment the trainee’s learning style as well

as the goal you are trying to accomplish. For example, if you are

communicating a task or giving background information on a

process, the most effective teaching method is straight telling. If you

want to change behavior or ask for ideas from the trainee, you must

involve the learner actively in the process. Some adult learners learn

better visually than audibly and vice versa. Using different methods

also, may keep the trainee interested and motivated.

Principle # 8: Adults want feedback and guidance, not grades.

Adult learners want to know how they are doing, how might they

improve and solutions for improving their attitude or behavior. Adult

learners enjoy achieving success and they should be encouraged to

measure their own progress based on clear expectations.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

“Stop working in your business and start working on your business!” 

When it comes to Branding your business, you need to get out of your business and into your local community. You need to build your brand around you with a logo and tagline. Just try it for 1 year and you will reap great rewards.

1. Business to Business Networking Groups

• BNI is the world’s largest networking group, and one I highly recommend.  BNI operates on the philosophy of “giver’s gain,” in which the more referrals you give to fellow members, the more referrals will be given back to you.
• Trustegrity - The foundation of success includes powerful relationships built on trust between people and organizations working together to solve challenges and pursue opportunities.  At Trustegrity, that’s what we do.  We carefully select like-minded professionals to be part of local groups to form relationships that matter, not just to refer opportunities, but more importantly to create real friendships that transcend a commercial transaction.

2. Mastermind Groups

• Mastermind groups bring people together for a shared goal, or shared set of goals, such as better business.  Mastermind groups allow you to tap into other perspectives, get support to achieve your goals, and create a level of accountability for taking action to do so.

3. Chamber of Commerce

• OK, so almost everyone joins their local Chamber; but how active are you in it?Do you attend meetings, volunteer for committees, or otherwise play a role as an active member of the group?If not, you’re undoubtedly missing local opportunities and connections that can propel your business.

4. Non-profit Organizations

• This one is the most important thing you should be doing. Find a non-profit that you are passionate about. You should donate your money but mostly your time to this organization. Just start out as a volunteer. You don’t have to spend a lot of time volunteering, but it needs to be at least once a month.

5. Local High School Sports Programs

• Find a local high school sports team to support. Once again, donate your time and money to this team. It doesn’t take up much time and normally not a lot of effort.

6. Civic Organization

• Rotary
• Kiwanis
• Lions Club

7. Trade Organizations

• Be on the lookout for local trade, merchant, and industry-specific associations you can join.My area has a Young Professionals Association in which we meet monthly to listen to a business speaker.  That’s all good, but the true value of membership is realized over beers after the presentation, when we get to meet, discuss, network, and grow.

8. Local Trade Shows

• Buy a booth at on of your local trade shows and get your business in front of people in your community. Have some giveaways or an entry to win a prize. If you have a service business be sure to set appointments at the show. At the show, try to talk to everyone that passes your booth. It is your responsibility to start the engagement with your potential customers.

 I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

1: What is your brand’s purpose?

• Why do I exist?
• What difference a I going to make in someone’s life?
• What problem do you solve?
• Why should people care?

People don’t buy what your do; they buy why you do it. The goal is not to do business with everybody that needs what you have. The goal is to do business with people who believe what you believe.   – Simon Sinek

2: Do your research.

Go and do your research on your competitors. Find out what they are doing good and find out what they are doing bad. The goal here is to differentiate your business from your competitors. The big thing here is to find out does your competition have a purpose? Because that is where your business can shine over everyone else.

3: Who is your customer or client?

You have to know who your target audience is. You can’t be everything to everyone. I talk about this episode 14 – Dream Customer. You have to create a customer avatar

Story

“I don’t know if Alexis will like this,” said an executive at Sally Beauty Supply. 

Confused, my friend Perry Belcher asked, “What?” He set down his new scented hand sanitizer that he had brought in to pitch at the meeting.

He picked up his new UV nail polish and handed it to the group. “Okay, well, how about this product?” he asked. 

They looked at it, opened it up, and smelled it. “Yeah, I’m pretty sure that Alexis won’t like this either,” they replied.

More confused than ever, and now a little frustrated, Perry brought out his third and final product to pitch to them. 

In a similar fashion, they looked at the product, gave it a quick once-over, and then said, “Sorry, Alexis definitely wouldn’t be interested in this one either.” 

More frustrated, Perry looked at the two execs he was talking to and finally blurted, “Who is Alexis?! Is she the decision maker? Why isn’t she in this meeting instead of you two? Is she here? Can I just talk directly to her? I know that I can convince her that your company needs to sell these products!” 

There was a moment of silence, and then both of the execs burst out in laughter. 

“Alexis isn’t a person. She’s our customer avatar!” one replied.

“What?” Perry asked. He had never heard of a customer avatar before. “I’m sorry, I don’t understand. Alexis isn’t a real person?” 

The execs just smiled at each other and asked Perry to follow them into another room. 

When they entered the new room, he saw a wall full of pictures of “Alexis,” a fictitious character who represented Sally Beauty Supply’s dream customer. The wall also featured a full bio about who she was, how many kids she had, where she lived, how much money she made, and the type of home she lived in. 

The execs then went on to explain that everyone in the company was trained that when they make any decision about what products to purchase, what colors to use in the stores or their branding, what ads to run, what promotions to create, what their websites looked like, and what music to play in their locations, everything was run through the lens of Alexis’s eyes. 

If it was something that Alexis would love, then the answer was yes. If it wasn’t something she would love, then the answer was always no. 

They didn’t run a product-centric company; they ran a customer-centric company. Their customer avatar is what drove everything from the products they created to the ads that they ran.

Brunson, Russell. Traffic Secrets (p. 13-15). Hay House. Kindle Edition.

4: The brand’s mission & vision

Have you thought about your brand mission and brand vision? In essence, you’ll have to craft a clear expression of what your company is most passionate about. This is your why; the reason you get up every day. Before you can build a brand that your target audience trusts, you need to know what value your business provides. Envision a projection of where your brand aspires to go, what it aspires to be, and what impact it will have on the environment you are in—think 10 years out. The mission statement is a now, every day, statement of commitment that is a roadmap for accomplishing your vision. It will inform how you execute your brand building strategies. Everything from your logo to your tagline, voice, message, and personality should reflect your mission and vision. Your brand vision is a future, someday, aspirational statement that your brand drives towards achieving.

5: What do you do?

There will always be brands with bigger budgets and more resources to command their industry. Your products, services, and benefits belong solely to you. 

Starting a brand that is memorable means you dig deep to figure out what you offer, and no one else is offering. 

Focus on the qualities and benefits that make your company branding unique. 

Assuming you know exactly who your target audience is (see Step 3), give them a reason to choose your brand over another. 

It’s important to note that this is not just a laundry list of the features your product or services offer to the customer or client. Think about how you provide value that improves consumers’ lives (outcomes or results that are experienced).

Here are a few examples:

• More authentic and transparent customer service
• A better way to support productivity
• Reducing costs with a more affordable option
• Saving time on daily tasks

6: What does the brand sound like?

Your voice is dependent on your company’s mission, audience, and industry.

It’s how you communicate with your customers, and how they respond to you.

A brand voice could be:

• Professional
• Friendly
• Service-oriented
• Authoritative
• Technical
• Promotional
• Conversational
• Informative

There are endless adjectives and possibilities that can build a brand voice behind your messaging.

Ultimately, you want to choose a brand voice that makes sense and resonates with your target customers. (Again, going back to Step 3!)

⇨ Learn how to find your distinct brand voice

You’ll see that if you find and use the correct brand voice, you have the strongest chance of connecting with consumers.

This is particularly important when publishing blog articles or social media posts. Maintaining a consistent voice will help your brand image become recognized on multiple channels in the same way. A community of followers, readers or subscribers will come to expect a certain brand voice and brand personality when they consume your content (see the next step).

7: What is the brand’s personality?

Customers aren’t looking for another cookie-cutter company that offers the same thing as everyone else.

They are looking for an experience tailored to their needs, backed by genuine personal interaction.

Wondering how to brand your business in a unique way? Make your personality stand out in every aspect of your brand building process.

Be consistent with this brand personality across all points of contact.

It can be as simple as:

• A conversational voice in communication (using “I”, and “you”)
• Sharing behind-the-scenes content
• Telling stories about real experiences
• Describing your products/services in a quirky manner

8: What is the brand’s story and message?

When building a brand, tell customers succinctly who you are.

Use the business voice you have chosen for your brand.

Your messaging should be intricately associated with your brand and conveyed consistently.

This part of the brand development process goes beyond your logo and tagline to define the key aspects of:

• Who you are
• What you offer
• Why people should care

A brand story is an opportunity to communicate on a human level, making a direct emotional connection with your consumers.

What this means, is that the language you use should be understood immediately while striking an emotional chord.

Make it simple and clear.

Most importantly: when creating a brand story, address not what your product can do…but why it is important to your customer.

⇨ Learn how to create your brand message

9: The tagline and logo

When you think about how to build a brand, visuals probably come to mind first. We haven’t even talked about these until this deep into the brand building process!

This step may be the one where you need help with creative execution.

The most exciting (and arguably the most important piece) of the brand building process, is to create a brand logo and tagline for your company.

This logo will appear on everything that relates to your business. It will become your identity, calling card, and the visual recognition of your promise.

So be willing to invest the time and money by creating something exceptional to reinforce the visual identity for your business.

Need help branding your business? Hire a professional designer or branding agency with logo and identity design experience, to help make your brand stand out.

Their expertise will ensure that you get a unique and timeless mark for your business.

A designer can also develop brand guidelines, to ensure consistency for any future application of the logo and associated brand color palette or fonts.

A strong brand style guide will include the following things:

• Logo size and placement
• Color palette
• Typography and fonts
• Iconography
• Photography/image style
• Web elements

10: Integrate your brand into every aspect of your business

The brand building process never stops.

Your brand should be visible and reflected in everything that your customer can see, read, and hear.

Let me explain.

If a client walks into your office, or a customer walks into your store—your brand image should be on display both in the environment and with personal interactions.

Anything tangible–from business cards to advertisements, to packaging and product–needs the stamp of your logo.

On any digital platform, ensure that your brand looks the same everywhere. Use your brand style guide to create consistency with visuals such as color and logo use, fonts, photography, etc.

Your website is the most important tool for marketing your brand. When you design your website: incorporate your voice, message, and personality into the content.

Profile pages for social media networks should be branded visually, and with your chosen voice for engagement.

www.freshsparks.com, Sonia Gregory, 11 Simple Steps for a Successful Brand Building Process

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Contributors: www.entrepreneur.com , Samuel Edwards, The 9 Growing Pains Entrepreneurs Need to Overcome

1. Getting overwhelmed by growth

For entrepreneurs with successful ideas or startups, there’s always pressure to grow and expand: It’s just the mindset of 21st century entrepreneurs. You come up with an idea, you launch it, and you grow it. Most entrepreneurs want the biggest enterprise they can build -- and they want it as quickly as possible.

While there’s nothing wrong with growth, you have to be careful with how and when you pursue it. As Entrepreneur.com contributor Robert Kiyosaki writes, “Just because you’re successful building a small business doesn’t mean you’ll be successful building a big business.” In other words, some entrepreneurs and businesses are better suited for smaller scale operation.

Every entrepreneur will eventually have to deal with the growing pains of expansion, and it’s up to you to determine whether or not it’s the right time to push forward. How you deal with this growing pain may determine the future success of your business.

2. Learning to say no

Saying no isn’t natural for most people. Humans are innately born with a desire to satisfy others. We prefer to say yes. However, successful entrepreneurs have to love the word “no.” In fact, you’ll need to say no more than you say yes.

You may never get to a point where you’re comfortable saying no, but you have to do it anyways. Otherwise, you’ll end up compromising your business at the expense of making people happy. It’s an uncomfortable growing pain but one that must be dealt with, nonetheless.

3.Transforming into a leader

There is a big difference between being an owner and a leader. A business owner looks at things through a black and white lens. Numbers have to add up, spreadsheets must be organized, and people are nothing more than assets. A leader, on the other hand, must have both business intelligence and emotional intelligence.

A leader cares about employees, takes their interests and suggestions to heart and makes decisions that benefit employees, customers, and the business.

4. Creating a focused vision

Along with that need to become a leader comes the demand for a focused vision. “This is a meaningful vision that you write down and which represents the highest agreement among all the people involved in the new venture,” writes Ken Blanchard, entrepreneur, and best-selling author. “It’s where you and the founders of the organization declare who you are, what you’re up to and why it matters.”

While it sounds neat and easy on paper, creating a focused vision is far from easy. If multiple founders are involved, it’s tremendously difficult to get everyone on the same page.

5. Trimming costs and developing a lean environment

Once your startup begins to grow, you have to find a way to trim costs and develop a lean environment that takes expenses and profit margin seriously. It’s never easy to make changes when something is already "working," but you will have to if you want your business to experience long-term growth.

6. Hiring the right people

Most entrepreneurs start the hiring process with people they either personally know or have some sort of direct connection to. It’s the easiest, fastest and cheapest place to start. However, every successful startup hits a point where convenience is no longer preferred over quality. Once you come to this phase, you need to start seriously looking at your hiring processes and how you acquire talent.

There are plenty of schools of thought when it comes to hiring talent for startups, but the following three insights are all you really need to pass this growing pain.

Always start by gauging the interest of anyone you’re interviewing. Are they as interested in you as you are in them?

Hire based on potential, not past experiences. While experience does matter, you’re looking to move forward -- not boast about the past.

Always share your vision with potential hires to gauge how they connect with it.

If you can get these three things right, you’ll be able to hire and retain top-level talent as your startup enters periods of growth.

7. Learning when to delegate

Most entrepreneurs like to be in control. It sort of comes naturally with the label. And while control is necessary in the beginning stages, there comes a point where delegating becomes a priority. It may feel weird, uncomfortable, and out of place, but you have to make the transition from doing everything yourself to letting others -- whom you trust -- take on important tasks and responsibilities. If you get the hiring process right, you shouldn’t have any issues.

8. Willingness to pivot

There’s usually one major difference (among many minor ones) between experienced entrepreneurs and those with their first startup. Experienced entrepreneurs understand that the first idea isn’t always the best idea. In other words, you must be willing to pivot when your initial idea or concept doesn’t work like it should.

This is one of the more painful growing pains an entrepreneur experiences but also the most critical. It doesn’t feel good to give up on your idea, so you have to look at it in a different light. Instead of viewing it as "giving up," look at it like you’re transitioning. You’re using experiences that you’ve gathered to make an educated shift that will better benefit your business in the years to come.

9. Managing the work-life balance

How do you handle personal responsibilities on the home front while also giving your undivided focus to the financial success of your business?

Surprisingly, it’s this growing pain that hurts a lot of otherwise successful entrepreneurs. This one has a way of sneaking up on you until it’s too late. By setting priorities and staying organized, you can manage this balance and give both the attention they deserve.

Growing pains do one of two things to entrepreneurs. They either overwhelm them and cause them to give up, back down or alter their vision or teach them new lessons and allow them to better understand their business or industry. It’s sort of like the “what doesn’t kill you makes you stronger” mantra. Anything that makes you uncomfortable and forces you to grow is productive in the long run.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

What is motivation? Motivation is the desire to act in service of a goal.

What is self-motivation? Self-motivation is driven by one's own desires and ambitions in service of a goal.

There is a 5-question process of achieving your goal that will help keep you motivated.

Question 1: What is the purpose of the goal? This is the why question that has to be answered first. You have to know why you want to accomplish this goal in the first place.

Question 2: What is your desire level about the goal? On a scale of 0 to 10, what is your desire level. Zero meaning I don’t want to do the goal and ten meaning I have a burn desire to accomplish it, and nothing will stand in my way.

• If you are not at an eight or higher then you are not ready to start the goal.
• You have to have a burning desire to accomplish your goals.

Question 3: How do I keep focused on the goal? You have to carve out time in your schedule and dedicate it to your goal. With a burn desire, this is normally the easy part. The key is to not get distracted during the dedicated time slot in your schedule. Don’t let anything get in your way during this time. You have to make a promise to yourself to stay on task.

Question 4: How big is the goal? Most goals have to be broken down into bite size pieces. Anyone can wrap their head around a small piece of the goal. Take the time to break the goal down. The smaller the pieces the faster you will be able to move.

Question 5: How do I Build momentum? When you accomplish one small piece of the goal move directly to the next piece and so on and so on. This will give you a sense of accomplishment and will motivate you to do the next piece. Be sure to give yourself small rewards for your achievements. This will reenforce your desire to keep moving forward.

NOW JUST DO IT!

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#1. Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

When you compare yourself to other people, especially those who have already achieved what you want to achieve, you’re focusing on your weaknesses rather than your strengths. This probably makes you feel defeated and hopeless if you see a big gap between where you are today and where they are.

For example, let’s say you’re setting out to learn a new language and you want to get some practice by speaking with someone else who has also learned that language as a second language. However, they’re fluent and are able to speak quickly without thinking about what comes next. While this may seem intimidating to you, you have to remember that they were once in the position you’re in now. They are just at a different stage in the learning process.

In other situations, the truth is that other people could be comparing themselves to you and you don’t even realize it. It’s important to remember to never make assumptions when it comes to what other people are thinking or what their true experience is.

If you are making an excuse to not try something new because you are comparing yourself to others who are experts in the field, remember that they once stood in your shoes and were able to get where they are today.

Action Step: Instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on your strengths and adopt a mindset of gratitude. Being grateful for the opportunities that are available to you to help you grow will start to improve the way you feel about yourself. If you get stuck on how to be more thankful for what you have, then try this 30-day gratitude challenge.

#2. Stop Fearing the Unknown

People tend to be wary of taking risks that could disrupt their current reality, and are often opposed to making even the smallest change to the comfort of their daily behaviors, even if their current actions aren’t in their best interest. 

A simple example of this is that people are often slow to try new hobbies because it disrupts their normal routine.  On a bigger scale, people hesitate to make career changes because they’re afraid that the outcome won’t be worth the risk, and staying in their current situation is the easy choice.

Sure, things may go wrong. But, things may also go very right. The unknown can be scary, but that doesn’t mean that it is necessarily bad.

So many good things can come into your life from the risks you take in areas that are unknown to you. Don’t just assume that anything that is unknown to you is going to turn out to be a negative thing.

Action Step: Get used to stepping into the unknown by doing it more often. Break up your daily routine by taking a different route to work or going to a new exercise class. Preventing yourself from falling into a strict routine in the first place or disconnecting from your internal auto-pilot will help you welcome the unknown rather than fear it.

#3. Stop Blaming Others

One of the most destructive things you can do in life is to play the blame game. It is the basis for a considerable amount of frustration and unhappiness in people's lives.

The blame game entails blaming someone else for something that happened to you that was undesirable and staying convinced that it was someone else's fault instead of being proactive and making the necessary changes to resolve a situation. This often stems from irrational thinking and is not healthy for you or for the person you are blaming.

People also tend to blame outside circumstances or conditions for their downfalls. For example, have you ever heard someone complain that they’re not making enough money and then blame it on the current state of the economy? Doing this takes away a sense of personal responsibility for something that person wants to change about their lives.

Action Step: Take ownership of your life and recognize when you’re blaming others. Exercise the authority you have over your life by taking charge of anything that is within your control.

#4. Take Responsibility For ALL Your Actions

Being responsible requires acting on your ability to respond to things that happen. It involves using your power to change and to offer the most practical responses to life’s everyday problems.

There are two components of taking responsibility. One is accepting personal responsibility and the other is accepting indirect responsibility.

Taking personal responsibility refers to taking ownership of your own actions and their consequences. If you haven’t gone to the gym in a year, yet you’re trying to get healthier, it wasn’t a time constraint that was holding you back. Take ownership of the control you have over your actions and ability to make decisions and set your own priorities. If you are unable to accept responsibility for your actions or mistakes, it is very hard to gain the respect of other people.

Indirect responsibility involves moving beyond yourself to take necessary action to help other people. Let’s say you found someone’s wallet in the parking lot. While you may think that is someone else’s problem and it has nothing to do with you, accepting indirect responsibility would urge you to take action and try to contact the owner. Having this type of responsibility reveals a factor of your character that shows you don’t make excuses when faced with a task.

Action Step: We can’t change some of life’s circumstances or how other people behave towards us, but we can control our responses to these things to change an outcome. Taking responsibility also requires changing your mindset. This may sound cheesy, but reciting to yourself, “If it is to be, it is up to me” is simple to remember and will remind you that you’re responsible for doing anything that you’re able to do if there is a need. (Read this post to learn more about accountability and responsibility.)

#5. Take Action Every Day

Part of taking action is taking risks. You may have big plans that sound great in theory, but you never plan on actually following through with them. Stop making excuses and take the action that is needed to achieve the goals you want in life and create success for yourself. One of the first things you have to do to eliminate your excuses is to take that first step.

Have you been avoiding the gym because of “time”? Dedicate specific blocks in your schedule for the gym and get dressed and go. You have to act on your intentions to stop even entertaining the idea of coming up with an excuse.

Action Step: Recognize that the first step will be the hardest. You’re the only person who can make it happen, though. Act on it. So challenge yourself to do at least one thing every day for each of your goals.

#6. Set Small, Attainable Goals

Setting large goals may seem so overwhelming that you don't even know where to start. Further, you may start working towards your long-term goal and find that you’re not getting anywhere fast and give up. (Sidenote: Here are some songs about not giving up giving you some inspiration!)

Instead, break down your ultimate goal into many smaller goals that are attainable so you can make progress that you can actually see. Every time you meet one of these smaller goals, you will be more motivated to continue on toward your ultimate goal. (Don't underestimate the power of small wins!)

For example, let's say you aren't much of a runner, but you want to run a marathon. You may start out by running one mile and then think that running 26.2 miles is an unattainable goal and you should just quit. Rather than starting with the ultimate goal of running a marathon, start with aiming to complete a 5k.

This is an attainable goal for someone who does not have a lot of running experience. Once that goal is complete, move up to a 10k. Keep increasing this goal until you reach your ultimate goal of finishing a marathon.

Action Step: Create a milestone map. Your milestones are still significant steps, but they help shift your mindset to focus on the smaller things you need to do that will accumulate toward completing your long-term goal. Doing this will help you start to recognize the necessary steps toward achieving your goal.

#7. Learn from Your Mistakes

Not only can you learn what not to do when you make a mistake, but you can also analyze what went wrong and figure out how you can do better in the future. All mistakes are learning opportunities, no matter how big or small the mistake may be. Often, trial and error is the best way to work something out.

Let’s say your goal is to land a great job and you are in the interviewing process with several companies.

During one interview, you make a comment that seemed innocuous at the time, but the interviewer seemed put off, and in hindsight, you can see why. I would be willing to bet that you would not repeat that comment during your next interview. Instead, you will take it as an important life lesson that just learned. (For more on this, read these 137 powerful life lessons.)

Action Step: Determine what specific action led to the mistake. In the job interview example, were you nervous and responded too quickly to a question without stopping to gather your thoughts? If this is the case, maybe you need to do some more interviewing practice so you’re more comfortable with the process.

#8. Don’t Focus on Your Weaknesses

Be aware of your weaknesses, but don’t focus on them. Rather, focus on your strengths and the things that you have to offer that other people do not. Ask questions that make you think more deeply about your life.

If you consider your lack of experience to be a weakness in your goal of learning a new language, the only way you can face this head-on is to gain the necessary experience to feel like speaking a new language is something that you can eventually accomplish. Rather than focusing on your lack of experience, focus on your drive and ambition to become a fluent speaker.

Stop thinking about your weaknesses. If you have a few weaknesses, be aware of them, but do not focus on them.

Action Step: Perform a personal SWOT analysis. This means writing down your strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats that are relevant to achieving your goal. This will help you recognize your weaknesses but allow you to take your focus off of them as you are also looking at the factors that you have in your favor. To get started, check out this guide on how to do a SWOT analysis for your personal life.

#9. Change your Attitude

Realize that you have the power to change. You just have to be motivated to do so. You can't feel defeated or complacent with your life just being “okay.” Without making excuses, you have the power to change anything in your life.

If you don't feel like you can do it on your own, seek help from other people in order to achieve your goals and get the results you are looking for. Never think that you simply cannot change an aspect of your life.

For example, it is within your power to lose weight. While the process may be slow and seemingly unrewarding in the short-term, you’re the only person who can control the outcome of your weight-loss efforts. Don’t stop trying simply because you think that the steps you’re taking (or the steps you have to take in the future) won’t benefit you in the long run.

Action Step: Be proactive without expecting to see a result. While the steps you take are based upon the results you'd like to see, don’t go into it with high and immediate expectations. This will only be setting yourself up for disappointment. Do your best, but don’t obsess over the ultimate outcome. Trust the process.

#10. Believe in Yourself

When you are faced with a challenge, do you feel like you can handle it or do you come up with some excuses to avoid it?

Perhaps you have a tendency to doubt your own abilities to rise to the challenge and overcome the hardships that life throws your way.

Believing in yourself plays an important role in whether or not you are able to achieve the results you want in life. If you want to save enough money to buy a house, but you don’t believe that you can actually do it, you won’t have any motivation to try because you will see your efforts as being pointless. You have to be able to envision yourself reaching your final goal in order for you to believe it will actually happen.

Action Step: Take a few minutes to list the things that you are good at doing and the successes you have had in the past. Then, recognize that everything you listed is evidence that you can, in fact, succeed. Sometimes we forget how successful we have been in the past. Next time you think that you can’t do something, alter your focus to the things you have already accomplished and about how you can make your current goal into a reality.

#11. Visualize Your Success

Literally visualize what it would look like and feel like to achieve your goal and have success. Close your eyes and think about who will be waiting for you at the finish line and the amount of pride you will be feeling as you’re running your final few meters. Notice as much detail as possible, such as your clothes, the look on your face, people cheering for you, the weather, the sounds of other runners around you, and anything else you can think of. Imagine your feelings as you are completing your first marathon.

Doing this can add some motivation to your agenda, as you will want to actually be able to feel those feelings of accomplishment.

Action Step: Get comfortable, close your eyes, and imagine what you would see if your dream was realized. Practice doing this any time you feel a dip in motivation.

#12. Remember: It’s Okay to Not Be Perfect

Accept your mistakes and know that other people are willing to accept your mistakes as well, especially if you own up to them and learn from them. This is something that happens to everyone, even the most successful people.

Accept your mistakes and know that other people are willing to accept your mistakes as well, especially if you own up to them and learn from them.

People often have a tendency to dwell on their mistakes, but doing so will damage your self-confidence. Dwelling on your mistakes can lead to feelings of anger, frustration, and stress, which can then lead to procrastination.

If you’re trying to save money for a house, but you bought something on an impulse that really damaged your budget for the month, take the time to accept the mistake and then move on from it. If there is nothing you can do to undo your error in judgement, just do your best in the future to do better.

Think of a boxer who gets hit during a boxing match. Does he or she stop to dwell on what they did wrong? Or do they get up and keep moving toward their goal of winning? While they may not repeat whatever they did that caused them to get hit, they’re not going to remain seated and let their emotions get the best of them.

Action Step: Next time you make a mistake, find the lesson in it and move on. Analyze your decisions, correct your behavior, and get back on the right path.

#13. Know You Can Change Your “Excuses Habit”

If you are used to coming up with excuses to get out of doing things, this is a habit that can be changed. Think about what you are actually trying to avoid when you make an excuse. Are you avoiding doing extra work? Or maybe you don't want to give up your free time or move around your priorities?

Try to figure out what you are really trying to get away from and address it head on. You can stop making excuses and start getting the results you want if you are able to have a clear vision of what you want for the future.

If you want to meet the love of your life, but refuse to go out and do anything on weekends because you want to watch television, you’re never going to get closer to meeting someone than you are now. Start saying “yes” to social invitations, even if your immediate gut-reaction answer is “no” because that is just what you’re used to saying.

Action Step: Say yes. The next time any sort of opportunity presents itself to you that is relevant to helping you meet your goal, agree to it without hesitation.

When it comes to your own future, making excuses is a habit that is limiting your ability to meet your full potential. It can keep you spinning your wheels for years without making any progress and lead you to feelings of dissatisfaction with life or a lack of purpose.

If you choose to blame other people for your own actions, this can lead to bad outcomes including developing a bad reputation with colleagues and peers.

You may take this to the opposite extreme and give other people credit for work that you actually did. If this is the case, you will likely be wondering why you are not making progress toward achieving your goals.

Final Thoughts on How to Stop Making Excuses

Follow the 13 steps that I outlined in this article, which will allow you to take the important first step to forever breaking the excuses habit. Start with one or two. Once those are mastered, add a few more. It won't take long to follow all of these habits an set yourself up for long term success in your life.

Honestly, sometimes people get so used to making excuses that doing so is their default answer to everything. They hardly consider actually saying “yes” or taking on responsibility.

They are just wired to come up with one of the excuses that they hold handy. It is important to make the best of every situation instead and never make an excuse that is not valid.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Momentum: in business is built when you accumulate a series of successes, one following another in quick succession without stopping. Momentum can produce quick growth and enable you to meet all your goals within a very short duration. 

Momentum takes daily work

1. Practice one thing every day

The first step in creating momentum in your life is to choose one activity or habit and practice it daily. Note that I didn’t say ten things or five things — just one thing. Any more than one item on your list and you’re already screwed before you’re started.

Why one thing? One thing that you practice daily allows your mind to focus. For every item on your list, a piece of your focus is taken away and that means the incredible power of momentum escapes you.

One Thing = Focus

Sustained Focus = Momentum

2. Set a 3% challenge

This step involves making a game of it and creating momentum through being 3% better (3% is not an exact number and is another way of saying small increases in results).

Once you have the daily practice, challenging yourself to be better at that daily practice in small increments is an entirely achievable goal that anyone can achieve.

If you wrote 500 words, write 600 words.

If you produced one video today, produce one and a half videos tomorrow.

If you made $100 this month from your website, make $120 next month.

Each time you challenge yourself and achieve small wins, you work your way towards the tipping point that momentum is. Momentum creeps up on you though and often once its effects are realized, you’ll have a delayed reaction to what is going on.

3. Commit to the long-term

The misconception about momentum is that it happens quickly. This step involves making one simple decision:

Will you focus on the short-term or the long-term?

By saying yes to the long-term, you head down the path of momentum. Focusing on the short-term will only make you obsessed with results that you haven’t yet earned and then giving up when you don’t see them.

As an example, I tell writers all the time: “Forget about making any money in the first year. If you’re dead serious, forget about making money from writing for five years.”

The shift to the long-term kills all the noise in your head that is desperately chasing instant gratification that comes from quick results.

4. Refine your process

The final step in creating momentum is to refine your process

Let me give you another practical example. As a writer, I have refined my process by cutting out a whole bunch of steps. I’ve cut out using editors, using too many photos in my articles, meeting minimum word counts, judging my work, and minimizing my time on social media that doesn’t add to the quality of the writing.

Locking in the daily habit creates your process and once you’ve repeated that process enough times, you’ll realize that there is a huge amount of wastage. Refining your process allows you to create momentum.

Summary

These are the four steps that anyone can use to create momentum. They are not hard to follow and can be applied to whatever your goal, dream or hobby is in life.

Once you see the incredible power that momentum creates in your life, you’ll feel like I feel right now writing these words. You’ll feel on fire!

Momentum crushes any creative resistance you have, eliminates the need to be motivated and helps you in invisible ways you can’t even see.

Choose one thing and practice it daily, set small challenges, commit to the long-term, and refine your process. I cannot wait to see you reach a level of potential that you previously hadn’t realized because the incredible power of momentum was lacking.

Use momentum to live a life you didn’t think was possible.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

The problem with procrastination at work isn’t actually a problem with motivation—it’s a problem with clarity. 

Clarity is something we think about a lot—because achieving clarity is the key to getting good results. The problem is clarity isn’t always guaranteed. You need a dedicated tool and a good framework for visibility in order to prevent silos and unblock high-impact, meaningful work.

Why we procrastinate at work

What is procrastination?

Procrastination is the habit of delaying or postponing the work you need to get done, either by doing other, less important things or by distracting yourself with non-work activities, like checking social media or watching a tv show. 

Procrastination is a form of time-inconsistency—the unconscious preference for immediate gratification over potential future rewards. Even if you know you shouldn’t procrastinate because you need to get something done, it’s more appealing to do something now—and experience the immediate gratification—than to work towards a longer-term goal. 

Part of solving this is bringing immediate gratification into longer-term projects. You can do this by implementing appreciation and feedback into your daily work. 

Procrastination doesn’t mean laziness

Depending on who you talk to, people cite many different reasons as to why they procrastinate at work. Reasons typically include: 

• Laziness
• Lack of self-control
• Fear of failure
• Built-up bad habit
• Perfectionism
• Feeling like work isn’t urgent
• Confusion about requirements 
• Negative self-talk 
• Fear of complex or overwhelming projects
• Multitasking

Nearly all of these reasons stem from one, central blocker that leads to procrastination at work: lack of clarity. If you’ve developed a procrastination habit, chances are, you don’t have a clear connection to why your work matters. That isn’t laziness talking—it’s a fixable issue. 

The problem with procrastination

Time-inconsistency plays a huge role in procrastination at work. Oftentimes, the work you’re doing is contributing to a larger project or organizational purpose. But, depending on your role, that goal can seem far from your day-to-day work. Without insight into why your work matters, it’s hard to motivate yourself to get that work done. 

What’s missing is clarity. When you clearly understand—and can draw a direct line between—the work you’re doing and how it impacts your team or organization, you’re more motivated. But this is hard to achieve. In fact, according to our research, only 26% of employees have a very clear understanding of how their work relates to company goals. 

Understanding how your work is laddering up to company goals leads to more clarity about how you’re making an impact at your team and company. This simplifies decision making. You can mindfully prioritize important tasks based on the initiatives that make the most impact on your company goals. Make sure these goals aren’t too far off. To combat procrastination, you need a clear line of sight from your work to company goals. 

Solving the clarity problem

To solve the clarity problem, you can do one of two things: 

1. Create team or department goals. If you or your team members have a hard time seeing how your individual work connects to broad company goals, consider creating department or team goals. That way, it’s easier to draw a line between your work and your team’s goals and understand the impact you have. 
2. Clearly connect your personal work to company goals. Even if you can’t create team or company goals, look for a way to visualize how your work is directly connected to broader company goals. For example, understanding how your work impacts a project that’s driving towards a larger company objective can help you better understand the impact your work has. You can do this with a goal management platform.

7 tips to stop procrastinating

To combat procrastination at work, create shorter-term team and department goals, or draw a line between your personal work and broader company goals. Try these seven tips to get started: 

1. Connect work to goals

The best way to stop procrastinating is to clearly understand how your work is contributing to team and company goals. When you have this level of clarity, work becomes meaningful. Instead of doing work for the sake of working, you’re contributing to a larger vision. 

Ideally, this vision is something you feel passionate about. But even if it isn’t, simply understanding how your work connects to something larger helps it become more meaningful. Instead of struggling with time-inconsistency, the work you’d typically procrastinate on now has clear value. 

2. Clarify priorities

Inevitably, deadlines change. This could happen because a project suffers from scope creep, another project gets prioritized, or your team lead reallocates resources based on last-minute needs. But if you know what work is most important, you’re more prepared to actively manage your priorities. Then, when deadlines and timelines do shift, you have the clarity to deliver the work that drives meaningful results. 

Clarifying priorities is a good anti-procrastination method because it helps you clearly see which work is most important. With clear priorities, you know you aren’t working on unimportant tasks. Instead of feeling like you’re wasting time at work, you see why your work matters.

3. Use goals to fight perfectionism

Sometimes, chronic procrastinators are actually perfectionists. In such a case, the pressure of doing perfect work is overwhelming—which leads to procrastination. But perfectionism, like most other types of procrastination at work, can be solved through clarity.

Focus on impact

If you struggle with perfectionism, it helps to have a clear sense of the impact of your work. Instead of aiming for perfection, focus on completing the task at hand so it supports company goals in the best way possible. Here’s what we mean:

Imagine you’re working on an educational animation for your website’s home page. Many people will see this work—which is causing the perfectionist in you to panic. That’s because you’re focusing on the outcome and thinking about all of the people who will see the video. Instead, focus on the video’s goals and impact. The animation’s goal is to communicate the benefits of your company’s product to people who aren’t familiar with the product—and the impact is education. By re-orienting your priorities around the impact, you reduce the pressure of perfectionism and get right to work. 

Define “done”

Another good strategy to fight perfectionism is to define what “done” means. This is a technique that Scrum teams use to move quickly. By defining—and sticking to—what “done” means, you have a point at which you can stop working, regardless of whether the work is 100% perfect. When in doubt, keep in mind that done is better than perfect. 

4. Break big initiatives into smaller tasks

Sometimes it’s hard to clearly see how and when you’ll complete a big project. As a result, it’s tempting to just put it off. The scope of the initiative makes it difficult to grasp all of the moving parts and connect those back to your larger goals. Instead of getting overwhelmed by the enormity of the task (or project), break the work down into smaller chunks, then use a project management tool to track and organize your work.

Breaking big pieces of work into smaller chunks is also helpful because you’re probably not responsible for every aspect of a large initiative. For example, if you’re writing an ebook, you’re responsible for outlining, drafting, and copyediting the work. But there’s probably someone else designing the ebook, plus an editor to approve the ebook. Breaking up the initiative “Create ebook” into multiple tasks not only makes it easier to get started, but also gives you clarity into who’s doing what by when. 

5. Capture every to-do

Even if you’re not working on complex initiatives, it’s still helpful to list each to-do out. Without a clear way to visualize what’s on your plate, it’s easy to get overwhelmed and lose track of everything you have to do. And you’re not alone. According to our research, 26% of deadlines are missed each week. 

Capturing every to-do is a tactic from the Getting Things Done (GTD) method. Once you clearly see what’s on your plate, you can more easily organize, prioritize, and execute work. Make sure you’re tracking your work in a to-do list app, not a written checklist. While it’s fun to cross things off a list, tracking your work in an app helps you sort and prioritize work, add additional context to important to-dos, and share those to-dos with team members. 

To build a great virtual to-do list, read our article about 15 secrets for making a to-do list that actually works.

6. Set deadlines

Without a clear sense of when things are due, it’s tempting to put that work off. Clear deadlines make it easier for you to understand exactly when a task needs to be completed. You can then plan accordingly to make sure it’s done on time. After all, you can’t get good work done if you don’t know when that work is due in the first place.

Once you’ve captured all of your to-dos in a to-do list tool, make sure each item has an associated deadline. This is also a chance for you to identify work that isn’t a high priority for you. If you come across such a task, defer the work until you’re more available or delegate the task to someone else.

Don’t just do this once. Quickly triage work at the end of the day and set due dates for any new tasks. That way, when you get into work the next day, you’re better equipped to get stuff done.

7. Try these time management strategies

Once you have clarity, you’re more likely to feel motivated. Yet there are still days where you need a little extra support to stay on task. If that’s the case, try a time management strategy to reduce multitasking and get into flow state. 

Getting Things Done (GTD) method. The GTD method is based on the idea that the more information you’re mentally keeping track of, the less productive and focused you are. Instead of relying on your brain, the GTD methodology encourages you to store all of your work information in an external, organized source of truth. 

Pomodoro technique. The pomodoro technique alternates between work and break sessions. A pomodoro is a 25-minute work session, after which there’s a five-minute break. After doing four pomodoros, you take a long break. By working in short spurts, you’re more likely to be productive while staying motivated.

Time blocking. Time blocking is a time management strategy where you schedule out every part of your day. With time blocking, you’re effectively breaking the work week into bite-sized time slots where you check your email, work on projects, take a break, or even exercise.

Timeboxing. Timeboxing is a goal-oriented time management strategy to help you increase productivity and reduce procrastination. A timebox represents a goal to finish a particular task within a certain time frame.

2-minute rule. The 2-minute rule is a simple time management strategy: If a task takes less than two minutes to accomplish, do it now. This methodology focuses on small tasks, with the belief that if you get them out of the way quickly, you have more time—and more brainpower—to get your higher-impact work done.

Don’t procrastinate creating clarity

While you can try to brute-force your way out of procrastination and adopt a “just do it” attitude, these strategies are only effective in the short term, at best. In the long run, the most effective way to stop procrastinating is to connect your work to larger goals. 

Like other personal development skills, stopping yourself from procrastinating takes time. If this is a habit you’ve built up, don’t expect it to go away overnight. Instead, dedicate yourself to creating clarity—for yourself and your team—over a period of time. Slowly, you’ll find you’re more motivated to get work done when you can clearly see why your work matters.

 I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Tuesday and Thursday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Are people natural born leaders or do they have to be taught leadership skills?

What is Leadership?  It is nothing more than INFLUENCE.

What is INFLUENCE? It is to affect or change someone or something in an indirect but usually important way.

What is the best way to influence someone? It is to gain TRUST.

What is the fastest way to gain trust?  To give of yourself first!

Example: Tell someone an embarrassing story about yourself.

Trust is the key to Leadership?

Remember with great power comes even greater Responsibility!

We all have a stewardship!

When we are a leader, we must take great care of the people we influence.

God has called me to steward my employees!

I am the leader of my companies, and this is my mission field. I am call to disciple to the people in my businesses, which is GOD’s businesses that I am just a steward of. None of these companies are mine. I am just here to carry out God’s work. I am just a humble servant. Remember God always comes first in our lives.

If I could tell my 14-year-old self one thing, what would it be and why?

Stay the Course!

Bible Verses I Live By:

Luke 22:42

Saying, “Father, if you are willing, remove this cup from me. Nevertheless, not my will, but yours be done.”

Philippians 4:6-7

Do not be anxious about anything, but in everything by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your request to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

What do you do when overwhelmed? 

Do you recognize it?

“I don’t feel like doing this.” Red flag for overwhelmed.

Self recognition is key.

What I am being overwhelmed about. 

Apply system to it, break it down into chunks, most pleasurable bite there is because if enjoy this bite more than something else. Get yourself into the most enjoyable part. Then in process and mind shift. 

What are you thinking in work mode? 

Task done, so do it.

Hyper focused on what doing.

What next?

 Build momentum from this one things. 

Congratulate self for accomplishing something. 

Hardest thing is the self aware piece, what you’re feeling in that moment. How can you increase the self awareness?

Feelings and emotions will rob you of success. 

How do you maintain optimism in your beliefs? 

Make it a habit.

21/90 rule.

You have to want to change. 

Every day wake up and make that choice to choose optimism. 

Practice intentionality – you have to want to change.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Day 1: Saturday

• 4” of snow
• Birthday wrong on ticket
• 6-hour delay of flight to Dallas
• Missed flight to San Francisco 
• Fly to Sacramento instead
• Luggage goes to San Francisco
• Arrive at midnight to hotel in Sacramento

Day 2: Sunday

• Come up with new plan
• Send luggage back home
• Buy new clothes
• Stay in Nappa Valley

Day 3: Monday

• Get up and drive to Eureka, CA
• Drive through Nappa Valley
• Drive through the Redwoods
• Stop and drive through a Redwood tree
• We get to Eureka, CA
• The hotel debacle

Day 4: Tuesday

• The breakfast debacle 
• Go to the Redwood park and zoo in Eureka, CA
• Go to the movies
• Dinner and back to the hotel

Day 5: Wednesday

• Great breakfast place
• Drive to San Fransico
• Drive over the mountain to the coast
• Get to Fort Bragg, CA
• Drive back over the mountain to get to the 101
• Drive to Santa Rosa for dinner and stay at hotel

Day 6: Thursday

• Drive into San Fransico, CA
• Go to hotel
• Rest Day

Day 7: Friday

• Get up and eat breakfast at Ihop
• Take Alcatraz Island tour
• Get on the Hop on Hop off Bus
• Eat Dinner
• Drive to hotel near airport

Day 8: Saturday

• Get up eat breakfast
• Return rental car
• Go to airport and fly home

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

What is a productive mindset?

A productive mindset is one that makes the best use of your resources - your time, your energy, and your efforts. It is not trying to do everything and be everything, or even doing it in the quickest way possible. It is making the most and best of what you have while enjoying the process.

Here are some of the elements of a productive mindset:

• Curiosity - The willingness to seek, question, and explore new ideas and concepts. It is the willingness and desire to know and learn new things. 
• Desire or Motivation - Cultivate desire. Without desire or motivation there is nothing to drive us to make progress and improve. Inertia is the opposite of desire and a destroyer of progress.
• Vision - To be able to visualize what you want helps you focus on it and gives you an idea of what the outcome would look like. Without that picture in your mind, it would be more difficult to strive for a goal. We've all read how men of 'great vision' have been able to accomplish the seemingly impossible.
• Critical Thinking - Acquire the ability to assess a situation in an objective manner or to see it how it really is. Look at the pros and cons and be willing to make the appropriate adjustments.
• Self-confidence - The faith and belief that you are fully capable and can do what you set out to. Without self-confidence and faith, you cannot reach your full potential
• Persistence - Most things do not come easily. Be willing to overcome obstacles and adversity. Challenge yourself and persist in order to reach your goals. Do not let circumstances, the opinions of others, or setbacks, thwart your determination to succeed.
• Positive attitude or outlook - Your attitude, be it positive or negative, can make, or break, you. Possessing a positive attitude allows for any possibility, while a negative one defeats you before you can even start.
• Open-mindedness - There is nothing like an open-mind for generating new and innovative ideas. You become receptive to groundbreaking experiences when you are flexible and open-minded.
• Balance - Ultimately, to function well and get the most from life, we must maintain balance. Working towards goals is important, but we must also take time to rejuvenate and recharge. Doing too much, or pushing too hard on any one thing, can lead to burnout and frustration.

By integrating the above elements into our though processes, we not only cultivate a productive mindset, but we also set ourselves up for reaching our goals more effectively, develop positive habits and we sharpen our minds to function at high levels.

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Definiteness of purpose

When one is truly definite on his purpose, he may burn all the bridges behind to ensure there is no way back.

Also, you have to make the decision to stick your entire life in order to make one step closer to your purpose. When one is definite, one puts his dreams across and never minds what others say when encountering temporary defeat.

In the case of Mr. Edwin C Barnes, he always considered himself partner of Mr. Edison. From the very moment he started working for him even if his job wasn’t directly related to Edison’s.

But this is not easy. Burning one’s bridges is not always enough. In many cases, the turning point of those who succeeded came at some personal crisis where they were introduced to their other selves.

The truth is accumulation of riches is not left to chance, good fortune, or luck. It is the result of a long quest.

As an example, Edison failed many times before he discovered the genius sleeping within his mind. This state of mind can only be obtained through persistence and a burning desire.

6 Steps: Method for transmuting desire into riches

Think and Grow Rich Chapter 2 Six Steps are very well known by Napoleon Hill followers. They are a recipe by Andrew Carnegie which also holds Edison’s stamp of approval as essential for the attainment of any definite goal.

However, those who have not been schooled in the working principles of mind will find these instructions impractical and therefore will be doomed to failure.

1. Fix in your mind the exact amount of money you desire; as accurate as possible.
2. Determine exactly what you intend to give in return, as there is no such thing as something for nothing.
3. Establish a definite date when you intend to possess the money you desire.
4. Create a plan and begin at once, whether you are ready or not.
5. Write points 1 to 4 as clear and concise as possible.
6. Read point 5 twice daily. In the morning after rising and before retiring at night.

With the application of these principles, you will convince yourself as you become definitely determined. In fact, money consciousness is a state of mind so saturated with desire you see yourself already in possession of it.

Mary Kay techniques for self-confidence

Mary Kay is the perfect example Think and Grow Rich is also for women. She has proposed a few steps to increase self-confidence, in line with Carnegie’s principles.

1. Visualize yourself successful. Visualize yourself in this new environment, capable and self-confident.
2. Reflect on your past success. Recall it to remember your potential.
3. Set definite goals and be aware when you deviate to undertake corrective action.
4. Respond positively to life. e.g., delete the word impossible and many others.

Chapter 2 analysis and Review

To burn one’s bridges or to burn your boats means to do something which makes it impossible to go back to the previous state. This idiomatic expression means that you reach a point of no return.

It comes from an aggressive military strategy so soldiers cannot to consider retreat. When conquering new places, soldiers know there is no way back and therefore will do their best in their campaign and survive.

In Chapter 2 we learn the success story of Mr. Edwin C Barnes and Thomas Edison. Barnes admired Edison’s inventions and dreamed about being partner with Edison. He left it all to go meet Edison and managed to obtain a low position within his company. With the passing of time, his faith in Edison’s products and his hard work in the company resulted in Edison giving him an exclusive contract to distribute and market a particular device all over the nation.

How much actual cash that original desire of Barnes was worth to him, I have no way of knowing. Perhaps it brough him two or three million dollars. Whatever the amount, it becomes insignificant when compared to the greater asset he acquired, the definite knowledge that an intangible impulse of thought can be transmuted into its physical counterpart by the application of known principles.

It is very important you follow the six steps to the letter. They may seem obvious, but they are not. They force you to have a clear target in your life and to think about what you are willing to do in order to attain your goals.

Chapter 2 is about a practical materialization of the American old saying There ain’t no such thing as a free lunch, which in Think and Grow Rich it is expressed as there is no such thing as something for nothing.

 I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

1. Morning Routine: So, you can build momentum for the day.

2. Concentrate: on your goals daily. We become what we think about.

3. Think positively: so, you can achieve positive results.

4. Trust Yourself: Ignore the haters.

5. Friends: Associate yourself with successful and like-minded people.

6. Learn Daily: Go to bed smarter by reading books, watching seminars, reading articles, and listening to audio books.

7. Build one habit at a time: know the 21/90 rule which is take 21 days to build a habit and takes 90 days to build a lifestyle.

8. Impatience is weakness be patient when working on your goals, you can’t be strong all the time, you will have your ups and downs.

 I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

WHY

Your WHY is your Purpose!

Purpose: it is the meaning, the reason why something exists.

Without Purpose, life, work, relationships, and goals have not meaning! Knowing your WHY will simplify the decisions you need to make.

• Purpose acts as a filter in your decision making
• “WHY are we doing the?” Purpose answers this question!

Why are you starting a business? If you don’t know the answer to this question, you might be doing it for the wrong reasons.

Example: I am starting a business to make money! Money and profitability are just by products of a business. If you are doing it for this reason, it will only take you so far. As you grow, you will start sacrificing your morals and principles. Your customers and employees will be the ones to suffer in the long run. Because you will use them to make more money and greed will set in. You need a higher reason than just money.

If you change your mind set to, I am starting a business to help my customers and grow my employees. Now you have a foundation to be successful. Change your focus from you to other and you will be able to grow by leaps and bounds. Don’t forget about making money, it is just not your why!

Now that you have your why let move to your what!

WHAT

Ask yourself these 6 questions!

1. What experience do I have?

Ashley Hill, founder and CEO of College Prep Ready, says she started her business because she had personal success financing her college dream.

“I researched the challenges that students and families are experiencing with paying for college to help me refine my core message and services,” she says.

From her experience and research, she learned that there was a market for the knowledge she had to offer. With Americans in trillions of dollars of student loan debt, Hill understood the pain points of students and parents when navigating the college application and financial aid process. She took this understanding and converted into a business that assuaged the difficulties she had witnessed.

Similarly, Victoria Garlick, CEO of event services matchmaking website Air Events Global, also believes in choosing a business based on experience and skill set. Hers is built off of a 20-year career in event planning.

“When deciding on what type of business to start, I looked at my personal and professional history and what I could contribute as an event director,” says Garlick.

2. What am I passionate about?

Another common recommendation entrepreneurs shared with us is to find and follow your passion. Nick Ehret, founder of Varieteas, is passionate about tea. So, he built a successful business by curating specialty teas for his monthly subscription boxes.

He’s a premium tea aficionado who knew he could transform his passion into a business. His advice to people when picking a business to start is to “[choose] something you are extremely passionate about because you will be working with it all day, every day.”

Brian Davis, CEO of Spark Rental, subscribes to a Japanese concept called ikigai. It means “reason for being.” In this context, Davis says, a truly good business idea is at the intersection of four things: what you love doing, what you’re good at, what you can be paid for, and what the world needs.

3. What problem can I solve?

We all know that necessity is the mother of invention but applying that knowledge to the business world hasn’t always been the next step. An entrepreneur who converts that need to a business plan could swiftly become a successful business owner. As any consumer can tell you, problems and pain points abound in just about any industry. Finding out what these difficulties and inefficiencies are—and coming up with a business plan to fix them—is a sure-fire way to step out on the right business path.

Take the dog bed company Big Barker, for example. This company generated $4.75 million in revenue in 2016. Eric Shannon, founder, and CEO, saw a glaring problem in the market for dog beds. “I started Big Barker because there was a huge problem that large dog owners had to deal with. They had to replace their dog beds once or twice a year because they weren’t made well enough to support the weight of a big dog.”

Shannon adjures would-be entrepreneurs to solve big problems: “The bigger problem you solve, the more potential your business has.”

4. What is my lifestyle preference?

Your business goal may or may not include revenues in the millions and employees in the thousands — and that’s OK. Perhaps what’s most important to you is choosing a business model that supports your ideal work-life balance.

Antonella Pisani was a VP of global ecommerce for Fossil and held leadership roles at JCPenney, Guitar Center, and ProFlowers. But her primary interests were in travel and photography. Because she knew she would prefer mobility in order to pursue these interests, Pisani knew she needed a flexible business model that wouldn’t require space or inventory.

This was the impetus for creating her websites, Official Coupon Code and FACT Goods. These flexible, web-based businesses have allowed her to work from Antarctica, the Arctic, Bhutan, Morocco, and other countries.

5. How much capital do I have access to?

The lean startup wasn’t a fad after all. In fact, the concept grew from one inevitable and enduring truth about starting a business -- people don’t want to risk their life savings on a business idea they have yet to prove or make profitable.

A great example of this fact is Robert Lomax, who founded an educational services firm, RSL Educational, based on needs he saw in his day job as a teacher. Not only did his teaching experience help him see gaps in the educational books market, but it also gave him the ability to keep his job and develop new products. Because he had a steady income as he founded his firm, Lomax was able to avoid taking on debt and minimize risk while he grew his business.

And he wouldn’t have done it any other way. According to Lomax, his approach is ideal because it allows you to “take your time and explore your ideas properly."

6. What ideas can I test easily?

Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg once said, “Move fast and break things. Unless you are breaking stuff, you are not moving fast enough.”

In other words, your business idea should be something you can prove (or disprove) early on. If you’ve got no experience in the trucking industry, starting a logistics company would be costly to test out. Instead, think about the lower hanging fruit in industries that interest you.

Marc Roche, co-founder at Annuities HQ, a Canadian online resource on retirement-planning products, suggests doing preliminary research with family and friends, and then move on to the Internet for some more digging.

“Don’t be afraid to try a have a few ideas in mind to ‘test drive’ before you choose a direction,” Roche says. “Do some basic research online and get a feel for what idea will be worth the time and effort of developing into a business.”

 I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Starting a new business venture isn’t easy, but these six steps will help you make much-needed progress.

In the U.S., 69% of new entrepreneurs will start their businesses out of their homes. If you’ve been thinking about starting a small business at home, here are six steps to help you get started.

Come up with your business idea

The first step to starting a small business is coming up with a winning business idea. Ideally, you’ll develop a business venture that interests you and meets a need in the market.

A great way to do this is by identifying a problem that frustrates you. Is there an issue that you continually encounter that you wish someone would solve? That could be your next business venture.

But you don’t necessarily have to reinvent the wheel. Take a look at the businesses that are already out there and ask yourself how you could improve upon what they’re already doing. Are there any gaps in the marketplace that you could fill?

Decide what you’re going to sell

A lot goes into starting a business, but the first place to start is to figure out what you plan to sell. Your success as a business depends on your ability to sell products or services to your customers.

Come up with a list of ideas for products or services you can offer. From there, you should consider the following questions:

• Is there a demand for this product or service?
• How will this benefit my customers?
• Would I purchase this product or service?
• What could I reasonably charge?
• Is there enough of a demand for me to make a profit?

Write a business plan

Next, you’ll write a business plan. A business plan will help you gain clarity as you’re getting started, and it will help tremendously if you decide to apply for small business financing in the future.

According to the SBA, most business plans fall under the category of a traditional business or a lean startup. You’ll go into great detail in a traditional business plan. These plans can be several dozen pages long and are required by most lenders and investors.

In comparison, a lean startup business plan focuses on a high-level overview of the business. You’ll summarize the most important aspects of your business, and it will only be about a page long. This will be much faster to create, but if you seek out funding, investors may ask for more information.

Decide on your business’s legal structure

Choosing the correct legal structure is an important part of running your business. If you want to get started quickly and with as little hassle as possible, a sole proprietorship may be right for you.

With this type of business model, you don't have a partner or executive board to answer to, so you’re in complete control of all the decisions. Keep in mind, though, there is no legal separation between you and the business; you’re responsible for any debts and lawsuits that the business incurs.

In contrast, a limited liability company (LLC) provides more flexibility and creates a legal separation between you and the business; however, there is more paperwork to fill out, and you’ll have to file your business with the state.

Apply for your EIN

Your Employer Identification Number (EIN) is a federal tax number that will identify your business entity. If you ever plan to register your business as an LLC or hire employees, you’ll need an EIN.

Without an EIN, you’ll have to use your Social Security Number to identify your business, so applying for an EIN can help you keep your Social Security Number safe. You can apply for free on the IRS website and receive your EIN within minutes.

Set up a business bank account

Once you’ve established your business entity, you should set up a business bank account. This is important because it separates your personal finances from your business finances.

It’s a good idea to partner with a local bank so you can establish a personal relationship. Many people find that smaller banks are more helpful and are able to respond quickly if a problem occurs.

Look into insurance

There are a number of risks that come with running your own business, including lawsuits, data breaches or business interruption. So you should start by making sure you have the right insurance.

A good place to start is by looking into a Business Owner’s Policy (BOP). This type of insurance includes three different types of coverage:

• General liability insurance: This insurance covers bodily injury, property damage or personal injury.
• Commercial property insurance: Commercial property insurance protects the equipment used to run your business.
• Business income insurance: If you’re unable to run your business for some reason, business income insurance can help pay for necessary expenses like payroll.

It’s a good idea to speak to an insurance agent for recommendations that are specific to your business.

Set up a home office

If you plan to work from home, it’s a good idea to set up a designated home office. This can either be an empty room in your home or just a designated corner in your bedroom.

But you want to choose an area that will offer you a certain degree of privacy. Also, be mindful of the background, especially if you’ll have to conduct client calls regularly.

Work with an accountant

Taxes are confusing to most people, and they get even more complex when you’re running a small business. Plus, you need advice on how to structure your business, how to set up payroll and how to track your expenses. That’s why it’s a good idea to hire an accountant.

An accountant can help you with all of this and ensure that your business is up to date with the most recent tax laws. And in the unlikely event that your business is audited, an accountant can walk you through this process.

Check on any legal requirements

Anytime you’re starting a new business, it’s a good idea to check on the state and local requirements. Some states will require a business license or permit, and you could be fined for failing to follow these requirements.

Depending on the type of business you plan to run, you may need to look into local zoning laws. Once you’ve chosen a business structure and fulfilled your state’s registration requirements, check to see if there are any other laws that could affect your business.

Come up with a marketing plan

Marketing is crucial for building a successful business, but too many business owners go into it without a plan. This lack of planning often leads them to spend a bunch of money without seeing any real results. Or worse — something does work, but they have no way to recreate it.

That’s why it’s essential to start with a marketing plan. A marketing plan will outline how you plan to get the word out about your new business. It will typically include:

• An overview of your marketing goals.
• A description of your target market and customer.
• A timeline of tasks to be completed.
• Important metrics to track along the way.

From there, you can outline your plans for your website, social media channels and company branding.

Test your business idea

Now it’s time to get out there and test your business idea, which means you need to focus on making some sales. After all, successful businesses are measured based on profitability.

There is no perfect plan to launch your business, and you may encounter many missteps in the beginning. It can help to partner with more established businesses to get your name out there and grow more quickly.

Regardless of the strategy you implement, you should be prepared to adjust as you go. The important thing is that you’re creating a solution that’s relevant and fills a need for your customers.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

1. Cut your to-do list in half. Getting things done during your workday shouldn’t mean fitting in doing as much as possible in the sanctioned eight hours. Do you really need those 30 tasks on your to-do list? Take a less-is-more approach to your to-do list by only focusing on accomplishing things that matter.

2. Take more breaks. The ache in your brain after several long hours of work should be your signal to take a break. Since your brain has used up its glucose, give yourself a moment to refresh by going for a walk, grabbing lunch or a snack, or just meditating. You’ll come back recharged and ready to achieve greater efficiency.

3. Follow the 80/20 rule. Only 20 percent of what you do each day produces 80 percent of your results. Eliminate the things that don’t matter during your workday -- they have a minimal effect on your overall productivity. For example, break your next project down into steps and systematically remove tasks until you end up with the 20 percent that gets the 80 percent of results.

4. Use your morning to focus on yourself. It’s a big productivity killer to start your mornings by checking your email and your calendar. This allows others to dictate what you accomplish. Start your day out right by ignoring your emails in the morning and getting in a good breakfast, reading the news, meditating, or working out. This will ensure you’ve got the necessary fuel for a productive day.

5. Tackle your challenging tasks before lunch. Knock out your most challenging work when your brain is fresh. If you have any busy work or meetings, save them for the afternoon. By scheduling your day this way, you’ll be able to create a new and more productive way to manage your time.

6. Improve your email etiquette. Email is a productivity killer and usually a distraction from tasks that actually matter--don’t fall into this productivity trap. For example, people often copy multiple people on emails to get it off their plate, but this is a sign of laziness and actually distracts everyone else by creating noise against the tasks they’re trying to accomplish.

As a rule, if you receive an email where many people are CC'd, do everyone a favor by BCC’ing them on your reply. If your email chain goes beyond two replies, it’s time to pick up the phone.

7. Create a system. You’ve probably developed a few productivity-ruining habits over the years. Manage your distracting ways by creating a system. For those of you who check your emails compulsively, plan a morning, afternoon, and evening time slot to manage your inbox. Otherwise, you’ll get distracted from accomplishing more important goals throughout the day.

8. Stop confusing productivity with laziness. While no one likes admitting it, sheer laziness is the No. 1 contributor to lost productivity. In fact, a number of so-called time-saving methods – take meetings and emails for example – are actually just ways to get out of doing real work. Place your focus on doing the things that matter most as efficiently and effectively as possible.

9. Stop multi-tasking. Stop trying to do 10 things at once! Changing tasks more than 10 times a day drops your IQ an average of 10 points. Get things done more effectively and efficiently by focusing on one task at a time.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.

Complacency: a feeling of smug or uncritical satisfaction with oneself or one's achievements.

But before complacency can make you its host, you first need to adopt one inimical habit — stave off on self-reflection. Since complacency requires you to have an uncritical satisfaction with your achievements, the first step towards this state would be to stop reflecting on your experiences.

Then either one of these mindsets follow:

• Bias towards instant gratification: one can suck at self-reflection and still be ambitious. Complacency is a state of ignorance towards your laziness/fear to validate the fact that you are not maximizing your potential, which often resembles hedonism.
• Fear of change: this one happened to Kodak. They were afraid of risking their film sales to focus on developing digital cameras, which led to their bankruptcy. Fear of risking what you have for something that could provide you with more happiness can also prompt you to tap into that ignorance and become complacent.

Does this sound familiar? If it does, you’re about to find this article very relatable. If not, still stick around; we’re about to delve into the effects this mindset has on your life so that you can be more aware of its adverse effects.

How Complacency Affects Your Life

For the sake of organization, I’ll split this section up into three categories — personal life, career, and relationships.

Personal

• You stop growing as a person. This is the main reason why I hate complacency so much. Since you’re not reflecting on your goals and experiences, your self-growth falters, which can lead to unhappiness since you repeat the same mistakes over and over again.
• Your good habits deteriorate. These include exercising, eating healthy, meditating, etc. Your shift in thinking from “I want to get better” to “this is good enough” prompts you to let go of your good habits as you start believing they are unnecessary. Neglecting virtuous habits is not only be detrimental to your self-growth, but also your health.
• You don’t set goals anymore. What for? You already have everything you want, right? Just like with good habits, as you become increasingly self-satisfied, you stop striving for better and settle with what you have.
• You settle for less than optimal. As complacency makes you increasingly ignorant, you begin compromising for scenarios that you may not desire to salvage your lifestyle.

Career

• You stop getting promoted. Uncritical satisfaction can pollute your work and decrease its quality, and therefore prevent you from getting promoted.
• Your ideas are trash. Innovation stems from a desire to improve a situation. If you’re satisfied with the way everything is, you become less creative and innovative.
• Your business starts failing. Just like with Kodak, it’s easy to neglect certain aspects of the market or negative reviews of your product until competitors take the lead.

Relationships

• You get into disagreements over the same topics. This one relates to the lack of self-reflection. Since you’re no longer committed to improving yourself or your relationships, conflicts break out more often and falter until they break.
• You’re not meeting anyone new. If you’re generally someone who makes friends effortlessly but notice that you haven’t made any new connections lately, it may be because you’re becoming complacent.

Hopefully, by now, you have a sense of how detrimental this mindset can be if you want to reach your optimal self. If you can identify some of these qualities in yourself, worry not! I’ll get into tips on how to defeat it.

How to Overcome/Avoid Complacency

I won’t say it’s easy to get past this mindset — especially if you’ve struggled with it for a while. Still, by tweaking your habits little by little, you can make your journey go along more smoothly.

Here are the four main ways you can overcome complacency.

1. Find Your “Why”

The easiest way to get back on a productive track is to know why you’re trying so hard in the first place. It’s not always easy to be sure of what your motivation is, but you can get started by taking a few minutes to reflect on your motives. Keep asking yourself, “why do I want to do this?” until you can’t ask it anymore.

Even if you don’t get to the core of the problem in the first try, you’ll at least still have a more definite trajectory than before. Do this exercise whenever you feel like you’re losing momentum again.

2. Make self-reflection a priority

Set aside 10–15 minutes each day to reflect on what you did that day and whether you are content with the way your life is playing out. Ask yourself what you can improve on and how you can keep aiming high to avoid falling back on complacency.

Make it a point to set action items after your reflection so that you follow through with your plans rather than making your progress a fantasy. Writing them down and asking people to keep you accountable helps if you know you’ll have a hard time following through with it.

3. Construct Principles for Your Life

This one was inspired by a book I’m reading called “Principles” by Ray Dalio, the co-founder and previous CEO of Bridgewater Associates.

In his book, he explains that building principles for your life make your actions more efficient since they provide you with a systematic guide to success.

In this case, the purpose of the principles would be to prevent you from falling back on negative habits or patterns of thinking. For example, if you notice that your day is more unproductive if you start it by checking social media, construct a principle like “read an article on Medium instead of checking Instagram when you wake up” and stick with it. Remember — it’s easier to abide by your standards 100% of the time than 98%.

Make sure your principles are specific and relevant. Revisit them often and make adjustments if necessary — the primary quality principles should have is that they work. Two principles I recommend to combat complacency is:

1. Come up with one new way to improve your life every day.
2. Make weekly goals that align with your “why.”

4. Build Discipline

I consider discipline to be one of the most valuable virtues one can develop; if you can conquer your mind, you can conquer anything. However, discipline is especially useful in this scenario since it will help with stepping away from a bias towards instant gratification and following through with your principles.

Some ways to build discipline are:

• Build a new habit you’re uncomfortable with, like limiting your sugar intake to 25 grams or taking a cold shower every day
• Daily meditation
• Embrace discomfort. If you’re uncomfortable, it means you’re growing. Acknowledge it and embrace it.
• Focus on your fundamental needs first (sleeping, eating healthy, and exercising). It’s easier to have discipline when you’re functioning optimally.
• If you fail, forgive yourself and move forward. Guilt-tripping yourself may only prompt you to give up.

I am inviting you to check out my resources page. It is completely FREE and has a ton information and some downloads. You can find it at resources.xpansioncode.com.

I will be releasing new episodes every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday!

If you like this podcast, then check out my newsletter called Xpansion Press. Business content delivered to your inbox. Just click here to sign up.