Amplify Your Business

How to Scale and Grow Your Business: Lessons from a Hypergrowth Expert

In episode 268, Lance meets with Seth Temko, the founder of Full On Strategy, a go-to-market consultancy that helps companies achieve hypergrowth. With a background in entrepreneurship and startups, Seth has a wealth of experience in the technology sector. He has lived through the boom and bust of the dot-com era and has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities that come with starting and scaling a business.
In this interview, Seth shares his top three tips for entrepreneurs, including that he believes that starting your own business is both the hardest and easiest thing you can do. While it comes with financial strain and stress, it also gives you control over your own destiny. Seth emphasizes the importance of patience, as everything takes longer than expected. He advises entrepreneurs to focus on the things they enjoy and are passionate about, and to outsource or delegate tasks that drain their energy. Seth also discusses his go-to-market strategy for Full On Strategy, which includes building partnerships and creating a community of restaurant tech executives and founders.
 
To learn more about Full On Strategy, visit: https://fullonstrategy.com/ 
 
00:00 - Introduction
01:15 - Three things every entrepreneur should know
07:08 - Go-to-market strategy
09:24 - Helping companies achieve hypergrowth
10:33 - Applying the principles of his consultancy to his own business
12:47 - Defining the consultancy and choosing a niche market
13:19 - Focusing on hospitality technology and generating value quickly
13:54 - Massive potential market size in the restaurant industry.
16:22 - Partnerships with Branded Strategic and other consultants.
17:27 - Focus on selling, defining partnerships, and driving pipeline for growth.
20:58 - Creating a restaurant technology-focused event to connect industry players.
22:04 - Building community and peer support is key for long-term success.
24:07 - Communities can be monetized and lead to strong relationships.
28:32 - Naive thinking can propel young entrepreneurs forward.
29:45 - Lesson from the dot-com bubble: value delivery is key.
33:07 - Importance of good product and customers willing to pay.
36:26 - Outro

How Good Debt Can Help You Transform Your Business

In episode 267, Lance sits down with Alex Mic Podar, the co-founder and CEO of Backyard Bookkeeper, a bookkeeping company that focuses solely on bookkeeping services. With over 15 years of experience in the industry, Alex has built a successful business that is dedicated to providing high-quality bookkeeping solutions to clients. Alex is passionate about helping other entrepreneurs succeed and is constantly looking for ways to scale her businesses and create job opportunities.
 
In this interview, Alex Mick Podar shares her insights on entrepreneurship and the importance of financial literacy. She emphasizes the need for entrepreneurs to have a good relationship with their finances and to understand the concept of good debt. Alex also advises entrepreneurs to be cautious when doing business with friends or family and to learn how to surround themselves with the right people. She discusses her plans to scale her bookkeeping company and the challenges she anticipates in acquiring other businesses. Alex also addresses the impact of AI on the bookkeeping industry and the importance of staying ahead of the technology. She emphasizes the value of systems and replicable processes in scaling a business and shares her personal journey as an entrepreneur.
 
To learn more, visit Backyard Bookkeeper at https://backyardbookkeeper.com/ 
 
0:00:00 - Intro
0:00:22 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know
0:02:26 - The importance of good debt in business growth
0:04:41 - Scaling a business through acquiring other businesses
0:06:03 - Backyard Bookkeeper's unique focus on bookkeeping services
0:08:32 - Plans to grow the team by acquiring other bookkeeping businesses
0:09:21 - Educating oneself and thinking outside the box for mergers and acquisitions
0:11:42 - Targeting retiring baby boomers to acquire their businesses
0:12:47 - The impact of AI on the bookkeeping industry and managing the risk
0:13:40 - The role of a good bookkeeper beyond data entry in the AI era
0:14:15 - Automation of data entry and the role of AI in accounting
0:15:21 - Working closely with AI developers to improve accounting AI
0:16:26 - AI empowering individuals to take on multiple jobs
0:17:37 - Alex's entrepreneurial journey and origins in Romania
0:20:58 - Importance of systems and hiring the right people
0:23:38 - The necessity of replicable systems for scaling a business
0:25:43 - Information about Amplify Your Business and upcoming symposium
 

Solving the Space Problem: How Spotz is Revolutionizing the Rental Industry

In episode 266, Lance sits down with James Jackson, the founder and president of Spotz, a company that aims to be the "Airbnb for non-overnight community spaces." With a background in business and a passion for entrepreneurship, James has built a career around solving problems and finding innovative solutions. He brings a wealth of experience and a strong work ethic to his role at Spotz.
 
In this interview, James Jackson, founder and president of Spotz, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the challenges he faced along the way. He emphasizes the importance of knowing yourself and your weaknesses, being prepared for the difficulties of entrepreneurship, and leaning on your network for support. Spotz is a platform that connects people with unique and rentable community spaces, solving the problems of awareness, accessibility, and tools for hosts. James discusses the strategic approach to building both the supply and demand sides of the market, as well as the importance of efficient funding and strategic outsourcing. He encourages entrepreneurs to have perspective, trust in themselves, and be open-minded to opportunities.
 
To learn more about Spotz, visit the website at https://www.findspotz.com/.
 
0:00:00 - Intro
0:01:11- Three things every entrepreneur needs to understand
0:02:58 - Building a strong network as an entrepreneur
0:06:34 - Overview of Spotz and the problem it solves
0:08:40 - The need for a centralized platform for renting non-overnight spaces
0:09:55 - Challenges in finding and renting different kinds of venues
0:10:23 - Potential benefits for organizations with empty spaces
0:11:50 - Building both sides of the market simultaneously
0:11:58 - Challenges of building a platform without an audience yet
0:13:18 - Strategic approach to building a community of hosts
0:14:21 - Metrics for monetizing spaces and marketing to end users
0:16:02 - Encouraging gatherings and creating community post-pandemic
0:17:22 - Funding challenges and efficient spending
0:21:38 - Learning from difficult situations and outsourcing certain roles
0:26:36 - James Jackson's entrepreneurial journey started at 15 with 47 different jobs.
0:30:48 - Advice on sustaining determination and overcoming challenges.
0:35:41 - Reflecting on personal growth and self-improvement
0:37:47 - Invitation to Entrepreneur symposium for business growth
0:37:47 - Outro

The Secrets to Scaling a Business Without Going into Debt

In episode 265, Lance sits down with Ashley McCarney, the founder and president of Involvi, an HR consulting firm. With a background in people operations, Ashley is passionate about improving employment relationships and helping leaders become better people leaders. 
In this interview, Ashley shares her insights on what every entrepreneur needs to know, including the importance of valuing your time, being flexible and innovative, and understanding “your why” as an entrepreneur. She also discusses the services offered by Involvi, which include HR support, customized learning and development, and recruitment. Ashley emphasizes the importance of trust in her industry and how Involvi differentiates itself by providing customized solutions and working with clients to navigate the gray areas of compliance and legislation. She also shares her experience of scaling the business and the key factors that contributed to its success, including a strong team, intentional networking, and a focus on building trust with clients.
To learn more about Involvi, visit https://involvi.ca/. 
0:00:00 - Intro 
0:00:47 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know
0:02:36 - Overview of Involvi and the problems it solves
0:03:56 - How Involvi stands out from other HR companies
0:06:35 - Ashley's motivation to start her own business
0:07:47 - Challenges and support during the early stages of the business
0:09:54 - Factors contributing to the success of Involvi
0:11:09 - Importance of networking and building relationships
0:12:49 - Focus on providing value and solutions to clients
0:14:44 - Advice for building a great team
0:16:01 - Importance of transparency and flat hierarchy within the team
0:17:45 - Challenges of maintaining open communication as the business grows
0:20:11 - Imparting vision and values through personal interactions
0:21:19 - Involving the team in creating the company's vision and values
0:22:26 - Intentionally separating the business from personal brand for scalability
0:24:02 - Considering options for future growth as an entrepreneur
0:25:09 - Transitioning from being the practitioner to scaling the business
0:29:37 - Building a business without going into debt
0:30:02 - Self-funding and wise spending to avoid unnecessary costs
0:32:28 - Advice for her younger entrepreneurial self
0:34:41 - Outro

Leadership in the Age of Digital Transformation

In episode 264 of AYB’s Entrepreneur Podcast, Lance chats with Tino Mantella, the CEO of Turknett Leadership Group. With extensive experience in leadership and having previously served as the CEO of the Technology Association of Georgia, Tino is passionate about helping entrepreneurs and businesses develop effective leadership strategies. 
 
In this interview, Tino shares his insights on effective leadership and offers advice for entrepreneurs. He emphasizes the importance of having a clear purpose and conducting thorough research before starting a business. Tino also highlights the need for entrepreneurs to understand their own skill sets and surround themselves with the right team. He stresses the importance of setting big goals and implementing measurable steps to achieve them. Tino also discusses the challenges of managing different generations in the workplace and the impact of remote work on company culture. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be adaptable and understand the motivations of their team members.
 
To learn more about Turknett, visit http://www.turknett.com 
 
00:00 - Intro
05:01 - Discussion on "quiet quitters" and job market trends
08:05 - Leadership skills for different generations and remote work challenges
10:20 - Coaching for personal change and common challenges faced by leaders
13:39 - Understanding oneself and others is key to personal growth.
16:47 - Leading the transition back to the office requires clear communication.
19:58 - The future of work may involve a four-day workweek.
23:59 - Transitioning leadership can be smoother with open communication and mentoring.
26:34 - Understanding what is important to founders when working with them
29:21 - Advice for founders transitioning to the next growth stage
31:14 - Balancing the roles of the founder and CEO
31:58 - Questions founders should ask when hiring a CEO
32:40 - Letting go of control and empowering the CEO
36:02 - Different dynamics between boards and founders
36:28 - Importance of the CEO having an ownership stake in the company
39:44 - Importance of founders planning for the future of their company
40:15 - Owning a company until old age can be beneficial
40:55 - Advice to younger self: be patient and listen
42:48 - Outro

The Importance of Ethics in Hiring

In Episode 263 of the Amplify Your Business Entrepreneur Podcast, Russ Law, CEO and co-founder of Verensics, shares his entrepreneurial journey and the importance of perseverance in starting a business. He discusses the roller-coaster nature of entrepreneurship and managing self-doubt. Russ also explains how Verensics addresses ethical evaluations of potential employees using their online smart questionnaire platform. He highlights the limitations of traditional background checks and the value of informed interviews and touches on challenges in partnerships and addressing team behavior.
 
To learn more visit https://www.verensics.com/ 
 
00:20 Introduction to Russ Law, CEO and co-founder of Verensics
01:12 What are the three things every entrepreneur needs to know when starting out?
04:13 Dealing with self-doubt as an entrepreneur
10:15 What problem does Verensics address?
11:11 The impact of hiring on organizational culture
12:39 How Verensics’ software helps improve the interview process
27:42 What advice would Russ give to his younger self?
28:46 Taking the leap into entrepreneurship is tough
30:05 What helps Russ persevere?
30:31 Pursuing passion makes a big difference in motivation

The Art of Preparation: How to Thrive in High-Stress Environments

In this episode of Amplify Your Business, we interview Tammy Barlette, a former Air Force Pilot for 20 years and now a successful entrepreneur. She is the co-founder of Athena's Voice, a speaker referral business that aims to empower and inspire women in the military aviation community. Tammy is also the founder of Cross Check, a mental performance coaching business for aviators.
Join us as Tammy shares her journey as an entrepreneur and the lessons she has learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of not going on the entrepreneurial journey alone as well as the need to anticipate and then overcome challenges. Tammy also highlights the significance of defining success on one's own terms and not conforming to societal expectations. Tammy encourages entrepreneurs to embrace challenges, prepare for obstacles, and seek help when needed.
 
To learn more visit http://www.athenasvoiceusa.com 
 
00:00 - Intro.
01:02 - Three important things for entrepreneurs: don't do it alone, don't give up, define success.
02:02 - Define success as making a positive impact and matching personal lifestyle.
03:50 - Introduction to Athena's Voice and its purpose.
06:11 - Introduction to Cross Check and its purpose.
09:46 - Overcoming challenges and applying mental performance principles.
11:28 - Advice for entrepreneurs: expect and tackle challenges, and solve problems.
12:43 - Framework for problem-solving and handling challenges.
16:24 - The importance of developing confidence and pushing out of comfort zones.
18:41 - The loneliness of entrepreneurship and the need for support.
20:16 - The challenge of analysis paralysis and decision-making.
21:13 - The importance of establishing personal core values.
24:15 - Redefining success and transitioning the first business model.
25:39 - The importance of mental performance training.
28:13 - Plans to expand beyond aviation in the future.
29:06 - The challenge of deviating from the niche too quickly.
30:53 - Potential applications of Tammy's course outside of aviation.
36:12 - Sacrifices of successful entrepreneurs like Elon Musk and Jeff Bezos.
37:06 - Realization of being in control of one's business and life.
38:07 - How to connect with Tammy Barlette for coaching and courses.
38:56 - Release date and motivation for completing a course.
39:39 - The importance of deadlines and motivation in achieving goals.
40:18 - Outro.

The Power of Vulnerability: Building Authentic Connections in Entrepreneurship

For Episode 260 of the Entrepreneur Podcast, we’re joined by Dr. Richard Pro, the president and Chief Strategy Advisor at VRINetics LLC. With a background in physics, engineering, and business administration, Dr. Pro brings a unique blend of quantitative analysis and strategic thinking to his work, making this episode uniquely interesting as Dr. Pro shares his insights on entrepreneurship and strategy development. Emphasizing the importance of building a community of entrepreneurs who can offer advice and support, and highlighting the role of data analytics in creating and sustaining a competitive advantage are just a few topics Dr. Pro covers in the episode. 
To learn more, reach out to Dr. Richard Pro at https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardpro/ 
 
00:00 - Intro 
01:14 - Three things every entrepreneur needs to know 
03:39 - An overview of VRINetics and its services 
10:31 - Unique focus on data analytics in strategic consulting 
14:04 - Importance of measuring and improving strategic execution 
15:39 - Misuse of the term "competitive advantage" in strategy discussions 
16:18 - The role of analytics in strategy 
17:05 - Importance of assessing value, rarity, inimitability, and substitutability 
17:51 - Why most strategies fail 
18:41 - Applying strategy criteria to personal career development 
19:35 - Lack of knowledge of strategy criteria among leaders 
20:09 - Importance of tapping into the collective knowledge of other entrepreneurs 
22:35 - Being vulnerable and authentic when seeking advice
24:12 - Generosity of entrepreneurs in sharing experiences and insights 
26:09 - Importance of regular touch base meetings with fellow entrepreneurs 
29:11 - Understanding effective digital marketing strategies 
33:35 - The first five years are crucial for a startup's success. 
34:37 - Giving first and making connections is effective marketing.