The Thoughtful Entrepreneur

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with theCEO & Founder of Elumynt, LLC, William Harris. William Harris has highlighted the critical need to shift focus to the bottom line. He pointed out that chasing top-line revenue only sometimes equates to increased profitability and can sometimes have the opposite effect. Element's innovative systems are designed to help businesses optimize their campaigns while closely monitoring EBITDA. William introduced two vital concepts: aggregate EBITDA and unit-level profitability. By analyzing each product's profit margin and customer acquisition cost, Element guides businesses in making decisions that substantially enhance their bottom line. This strategy is not only logical but also crucial for achieving sustainable growth. One may question why not all businesses focus on EBITDA if it is so advantageous. The challenge lies in the difficulty of integrating profit data into advertising platforms. Many businesses and media buyers are more comfortable with straightforward top-line metrics, which can be deceptive. William stressed that a profound comprehension of the business, beyond just the industry, is required to master this complexity. Although unable to divulge specific client information due to confidentiality agreements, William recounted the success of an outdoor apparel brand that revolutionized its advertising approach. By targeting their campaigns on more profitable products, such as their premium coats, the brand saw a marked improvement in profitability. Key Points from the Episode: EBITDA-focused growth optimization for e-commerce Prioritizing bottom-line over top-line growth Enhancing acquisition or exit potential with EBITDA strategies E-commerce challenges and growth via advertising and media buys Tactics for EBITDA-centric campaign optimization Linking media buying to bottom-line profitability Success stories from EBITDA-optimized campaigns How EBITDA optimization boosts acquisition or exit attractiveness EBITDA focus altering marketing team outcomes and views Financial upsides of EBITDA optimization, despite higher costs About William Harris: William Harris is a distinguished figure in digital marketing, particularly known for his expertise in accelerating the revenue and user growth of e-commerce and SaaS businesses. As the founder and CEO of Elumynt, an e-commerce marketing agency, and the head of marketing for Sellbrite, a company specializing in multichannel e-commerce growth and management, Harris has a proven track record of success.  William's work has benefited significant brands like Nike, Nickelodeon, and Jack Daniels, demonstrating his capacity to deliver significant results, such as achieving a 5,601% ROAS on Facebook ads and doubling a client's organic search traffic in a month through SEO.  Harris contributed to a B2B SaaS blog's audience growth from 20k to over 100k monthly visitors in less than two years. His insights and strategies are also shared through contributions to top publications like Entrepreneur and Fast Company, and he frequently speaks at major industry events. About Elumynt, LLC: Elumynt has established itself as a leading Growth & Marketing Agency, humorously acclaimed as the #1 agency in Minnesota for two consecutive years by the founder's mother. Though shared in jest, this accolade hints at the agency's strong reputation and the high esteem it's held, even among its clients. Specializing in rapid business growth, Elumynt serves a diverse clientele, including venture capital-backed SaaS companies, e-commerce stores, and local small businesses.  Their expertise is not confined to any industry, allowing them to apply their growth strategies across various sectors. The agency's ability to work with a broad range of businesses—from tech startups to traditional brick-and-mortar shops—underscores its versatility and effectiveness in driving significant growth and marketing success for its clients. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Elumynt, LLC website at https://www.elumynt.com/ Check out Elumynt, LLC on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/elumynt/ Check out William Harris on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/wmharris/ Check out William Harris on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/wmharris101x Check out William Harris on Twitter at https://twitter.com/wmharris101 Check out William Harris on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/realwilliamharris Check out The Up Arrow Podcast at https://www.youtube.com/@uparrowpodcast https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/up-arrow-podcast/id1686736096 https://open.spotify.com/show/3VOqxnoXRyNNq1nsvL3P24?si=c0e3d91291ed46c0 More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

1863 - Business Flow and Efficiency with Goaldi Coaching & Consulting's Traci Bermingham

1862 - Personality-Driven Sales & Marketing with Usman Sheikh of xiQ, Inc.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Chief Executive Officer of Custom Box Agency, Mark Stern. Mark Stern and his team at Custom Box Agency have mastered the art of enhancing the customer journey. They believe you can unlock a world of possibilities by genuinely understanding the path you ask your customers to take. From accelerating results to introducing new monetization strategies, the focus is optimizing every step of the experience. Mark shared an intriguing strategy involving a concept called "collection." By creating a series of boxes that customers receive over time, you can encourage continued engagement and create a sense of anticipation. This approach is inspired by the success of initiatives like the Spartan Race, where participants are motivated to complete a series of challenges to collect all parts of a medal Mark mentioned his work with Joey Coleman, author of "Never Lose a Customer Again," highlighting the importance of clarity in the customer journey. By dissecting a client's offerings, Custom Box Agency ensures a clear and compelling pathway for customers, which has led to significant impacts for their clients, particularly in the print-on-demand space. Key Points from the Episode: Importance of understanding the customer journey Custom Box Agency's approach to optimizing the customer journey The role of physical experiences in a digital age Three core objectives for businesses: acquisition, delivery, and retention Components of a custom box experience: welcome note, getting started guide, dedicated journey map, and additional tools for success Eliminating friction points in the customer journey Using custom boxes as activation and retention tools About Mark Stern: Mark Stern is the entrepreneurial mind behind the Custom Box Agency, a pioneering experience design firm dedicated to transforming the customer journey through innovative direct mail solutions. Celebrated in Forbes as a transformative figure in the Next 1,000 Entrepreneurs, Stern's work is symbolic of a new American Dream.  Mark's insights into employee retention were highlighted in Joey Coleman's Wall Street Journal Bestseller, Never Lose an Employee Again. Before his entrepreneurial journey, Stern excelled as a strategy consultant at Deloitte Consulting, the globe's premier consulting entity. An alumnus of Duke University, he holds an MBA.  Beyond his professional achievements, Stern is a fitness enthusiast, a five-time Spartan Trifecta achiever, and a mentor at South-by-Southwest Start-up events. His passions extend to being a lifelong fan of tacos and BBQ. Stern makes his home in Austin, Texas, where he continues to innovate and inspire. About Custom Box Agency: Custom Box Agency stands out in marketing and customer engagement by masterfully integrating three key elements: Acquisition, Engagement, and Monetization. Unlike typical swag shops that focus solely on customer acquisition or jump directly to monetization, Custom Box Agency emphasizes the critical role of engagement in driving customer success. Their distinctive approach involves a thorough discovery and planning process, ensuring that each custom box not only delights recipients but also aligns with and advances the client's strategic objectives. Clients of Custom Box Agency have reported remarkable outcomes, including sales increases of over 200%, by leveraging the strategically designed tools included in each box. This success is attributed to the agency's ability to create an engaging and meaningful customer experience, providing valuable content and solutions that foster growth. By addressing and resolving potential customer issues preemptively, Custom Box Agency strengthens the client-customer relationship, transforming it in a way that poses the exciting possibility of limitless growth. Tweetable Moments: 02:52 - "The biggest thing that we try to solve for our clients is, do you really understand what it is you're asking your customers to do?" 03:27 - "Swag means stuff without a goal. Our goal here is to give your customers everything they need to be set up for success out of the gate." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Custom Box Agency website at https://customboxagency.com/ Check out Custom Box Agency on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/custom-box-agency/ Check out Mark Stern on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/marustern/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO of Execute to Win, Lee Benson. [caption id="attachment_286822" align="aligncenter" width="1920"] Improving Companies’ Results with Lee Benson of Execute to Win[/caption] Lee introduced us to his MIND methodology, an acronym for Most Important Number and Drivers. This approach is a game-changer in how organizations set goals and drive value creation. Traditional goal-setting methods often fail to foster the behaviors necessary for genuine value creation within a company. Lee's methodology bridges this gap by connecting culture directly to value creation. The core of the MIND methodology is the alignment of every team member's efforts towards improving the organization's most important numbers. It's akin to a sports team working in unison to win a game. This focus ensures everyone's energy is directed towards the same end goal, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. Lee's definition of value creation extends beyond the material. He includes emotional energy and spiritual aspects, presenting a holistic view that resonates deeply with CEOs and leaders. As Lee puts it, a CEO's role is continually increasing the organization's value, necessitating intentional methodologies and strategies. Lee shed light on his work with organizations through programs like the "quickstart" initiative, which helps companies implement the MIND methodology swiftly and effectively. He also spoke about "Execute Masterminds," a program designed for CEOs who are determined to accelerate their organization's value. These programs underscore the importance of surgical leadership development, customized to meet each organization's unique needs. Key Points from the Episode: MIND methodology: Most Important Number and Drivers Connecting culture to value creation Traditional goal setting and driving behaviors Holistic definition of value creation CEO's role in increasing organization's value Quickstart program for implementing MIND methodology Execute Masterminds for CEOs About Lee Benson: Lee Benson is a seasoned entrepreneur and business strategist with a remarkable track record of founding seven companies over the last 25 years, achieving exits ranging from millions to nine figures. Beyond his entrepreneurial success, Benson has collaborated with hundreds of leadership teams across various industries and sizes, from small teams of four to large corporations with over 40,000 employees, encompassing for-profit and nonprofit sectors.  His primary focus has been on enhancing the rate of value creation, crucial for boosting cash flow, profit, and impact. To address the common issue of overemphasis on process at the expense of outcomes, Benson developed the MIND Methodology (Most Important Number and Drivers Methodology). This innovative business operating framework ensures that teams prioritize actions that improve their Most Important Number, fostering more effective and efficient value creation. About Execute to Win: Execute to Win (ETW) is a company deeply committed to value creation, viewing it as essential for the growth and health of organizations and communities. With a mission to accelerate the pace at which individuals and organizations can contribute meaningfully to the world, ETW emphasizes the importance of creating value in every aspect of its operation.  This obsession with value creation permeates the company's culture, finding its way into team meetings, casual conversations, and even festive celebrations. ETW holds the conviction that through fostering value creation, they can play a pivotal role in crafting a better future. They believe that when people and organizations focus on creating value, they enhance products and services and address real-world challenges, generating employment and advancing society. Hence, ETW is dedicated to empowering others to realize their potential and significantly contribute to the world. Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Execute to Win website at https://etw.com/ Check out Execute to Win on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/execute-to-win/ Check out Lee Benson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/lee-j-benson/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Founder & President of Leader's Edge, HR Huntsman.  HR Huntsman's approach to business growth is both strategic and holistic. He understands that for businesses to scale, they need to develop strong leadership and cohesive teams. One of the key insights HR shared was the critical transition leaders must make from being "time tellers" to "clock builders." This metaphor encapsulates the idea that leaders should concentrate on creating systems and infrastructures that function independently of their constant oversight. It's about empowering your team and setting up processes that ensure the business can thrive, even when the leader isn't present. Another fascinating topic we delved into was the concept of creative conflict. HR believes that for a company to grow, it must cultivate an environment where different viewpoints are tolerated and actively encouraged. This culture allows for innovation and problem-solving from various perspectives, leading to more robust and creative solutions. Leadership development and team building are also at the heart of achieving sustainable growth. HR emphasized the importance of nurturing leaders who can carry the vision and drive the company's growth. The current labor market presents unique challenges, and HR did not shy away from addressing these. He stressed the importance of adapting to employee engagement and retention dynamics.  In his view, companies should see themselves as training organizations that excel in their fields. This perspective necessitates robust onboarding and training programs that bring employees up to speed, foster their development, and encourage them to stay with the company. Key Points from the Episode: Business growth strategies for small and medium-sized businesses Leadership development and team building Transitioning from "time tellers" to "clock builders" Fostering a culture of creative conflict and diverse perspectives Challenges in the labor market and adapting to changing dynamics Employee engagement and retention Viewing organizations as training companies Effective onboarding and training programs Importance of personal connection and collaboration opportunities About HR Huntsman: HR Huntsman, the founder of Leader's Edge, is a seasoned leader with over 30 years of experience. Driven by his journey of overcoming childhood challenges, he has dedicated himself to investing in and empowering young leaders.  Through Leader's Edge, HR imparts valuable life and leadership principles from his successful endeavors, emphasizing the importance of mindset, principles, and disciplines for sustained success. As a prolific speaker, HR has shared his insights in approximately 4000 talks to a diverse audience of around 400,000 people worldwide.  His passion for enhancing others' lives remains unwavering, reflecting his commitment to helping individuals and companies thrive. HR's enduring marriage of over thirty years to Gwen and their shared journey of raising two grown children further exemplify his dedication to building lasting connections and making a positive impact. About Leader's Edge: Leader's Edge specializes in unleashing potential and propelling organizations beyond operational challenges. With a team of seasoned organizational strategists and business coaches, Leader's Edge employs its patented Leader's Edge Performance Engine to translate visions into tangible success. This proven process is designed to catapult businesses past stagnation, facilitate scalable growth, and instill the desired time and financial freedom. By attentively listening to each client's story and aspirations, Leader's Edge ensures a personalized approach for a diverse clientele, ranging from CEOs of large corporations to entrepreneurial startups.  The firm is dedicated to creating a better future for clients by assisting them in defining their goals and achieving them. Whether navigating the complexities of established enterprises or guiding emerging careers, Leader's Edge is committed to helping clients chart a course toward their aspirations. Tweetable Moments: 13:10 - "At the core of most of this is the ability to have good conversations where people are free to disagree, engage, feel heard, and valued." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Leader's Edge website at https://getstarted.yourleadersedge.com/ Check out Leader's Edge on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/yourleadersedge/ Check out Leader's Edge on Twitter at https://twitter.com/YourLeadersEdge Check out Leader's Edge on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/YourLeadersEdge Check out HR Huntsman on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/hr-huntsman More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & Principal of MIK Architecture, Matias Daroch. Matias Daroch is a name that has become synonymous with luxury and elegance in the architectural realm. His firm, MIK Architecture, has been at the forefront of designing opulent homes that not only exude style but also offer a sanctuary for those who inhabit them. Matias shared his approach to creating these magnificent dwellings, emphasizing the importance of understanding residential developers' and investors' unique needs and desires. He believes that a luxury home is more than just a space; it's an experience that should be tailored to the individual's lifestyle. Matias's commentary on the environment's role in our well-being was a particularly insightful moment in the dialogue. Matias and his team at Mike Architecture consider this in every project, striving to create homes that are not only visually stunning but also foster tranquillity and well-being. He emphasized the significance of elements like natural light, open spaces, and the incorporation of nature in his design philosophy. Matias offered valuable perspectives from the investor community. He observed an increasing valuation of high-end residential properties, particularly in booming markets like Miami. Investors seek homes that deliver luxury and practicality, with state-of-the-art amenities and avant-garde design. Matias also mentioned the necessity of staying abreast of architectural trends to satisfy the sophisticated preferences of these investors. Key Points from the Episode: Discussion between Josh Elledge and Matias Daroch  Matias Daroch's work in architecture Designing luxury homes for residential developers and investors in Miami Impact of the environment on well-being Investor community's outlook on the higher-end residential market About Matias Daroch: Matias Daroch is characterized by his simplicity and adaptability, which enable him to navigate various situations easily. His creativity and hardworking nature are foundational to his approach to challenges, constantly seeking new knowledge to devise solutions. Matias is innovative and possesses strong communication skills, making him an effective communicator across different scenarios. His tolerance and leadership abilities further highlight his capacity to manage and lead teams effectively, fostering an environment where everyone feels included and valued.  This unique blend of qualities makes him versatile, capable of contributing significantly to any endeavor he undertakes, combining creativity, leadership, and an unending quest for knowledge to overcome obstacles and achieve objectives. About MIK Architecture: MIK Architecture, founded by Chilean architect Matias Daroch in January 2020, emerged from a unique perspective. Initially involved in managing his family's real estate investments in Miami, Matias recognized the advantages of becoming a registered architect to serve these projects better.  This realization led him to acquire his architectural registration and establish MIK Architecture, intending to extend services beyond his family's interests to include emerging real estate developers and investors. Specializing in modern and contemporary-style residential architecture, MIK Architecture has made a name for itself in South Florida. The firm is dedicated to designing spaces that not only meet clients' specific needs but also resonate with the market and prospective buyers. Through a deep understanding of both market trends and end-user preferences, MIK Architecture excels in creating spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, highly marketable, and successful. Tweetable Moments: 09:59 - "My personal opinion on that is that you get to live the space when you're mindful of that space." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out MIK Architecture website at https://mikarchitecture.com/ Check out MIK Architecture on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/mikarchitecture/ Check out MIK Architecture on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/mik.architecture/?hl=en Check out MIK Architecture on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/mikarchitects/ Check out Matias Daroch on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matiasdaroch/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the Founder & Chairman of Academic Technology Ventures, Inc., Corey Park. Corey shared the pivotal moments that led to the creation of this groundbreaking company. ATV is a testament to Corey's unwavering commitment to bridging the gap between academic research and real-world applications. His insights into transforming theoretical knowledge into market-ready solutions were enlightening. Corey emphasized how ATV nurtures partnerships between academia and industry, creating a symbiotic relationship that accelerates the development of new technologies. He provided examples of successful ventures that have emerged from these collaborations, showcasing the potential for significant societal impact. As the chairman of ATV, Corey Park has a unique perspective on leadership. He shared his philosophy on guiding a company at the forefront of technological advancement. We discussed the challenges of staying ahead in a rapidly evolving landscape and how leaders can foster a culture of continuous innovation within their organization. Corey was candid about the obstacles ATV has faced. From securing funding to navigating the complex patenting process, he thoroughly assessed the challenges tech entrepreneurs must overcome. His advice on tackling these issues was practical and motivational, offering a roadmap for aspiring innovators. Key Points from the Episode: The role of Corey Park as the founder and chairman of Academic Technology Ventures The impact of technology on academic ventures The potential benefits and challenges of academic technology ventures The importance of innovation in academic technology The role of entrepreneurship in academic technology ventures The potential for collaboration between academia and technology ventures The future of academic technology ventures The perspectives of the unnamed guest on the topic About Corey Park: Corey Park is a visionary entrepreneur and business strategist with nearly 30 years of experience. As the Founder and Chairman of his ventures, Corey is known for transforming visions into tangible outcomes through strategic business planning and team development. He is uniquely able to identify opportunities and leverage points within organizations, fostering growth and driving significant business advantages.  A Notre Dame Mendoza School of Business graduate focusing on Leadership & Management, Corey is also a certified hedge fund professional (CHP) specializing in portfolio analytics and risk management.  Throughout his illustrious career, Corey has made substantial contributions as a serial entrepreneur, serving on several boards and being a coveted advisor and mentor in the tech startup and venture capital sectors. His expertise and guidance are highly valued across the business landscape, especially in innovative and technological domains. About Academic Technology Ventures, Inc.: Academic Technology Ventures (ATV) is a pioneering firm that bridges the gap between academic and government lab inventions and the marketplace. Their mission is centered on creating a better world by commercializing disruptive technologies. With a keen eye for potential, ATV sifts through thousands of innovations annually, identifying those with the most substantial intellectual property and market impact potential.  The company prides itself on a highly scientific approach to technology selection, ensuring that only the most promising inventions are developed and brought to market. ATV's team consists of highly trained, focused, and experienced leaders in technology commercialization, offering a unique combination of capabilities and resources.  This strategic approach propels inventions from concept to commercial success and contributes significantly to advancing global technological progress and societal benefits. Tweetable Moments: 13:18 - "I was part of that 85%, stuck and hard to find an original idea. I didn't know how to get into the blue ocean; I was stuck in the red ocean with all the other small business guys." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Academic Technology Ventures, Inc. website at https://academictechventures.com/ Check out Academic Technology Ventures, Inc. on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/build-grow-scale/ Check out Corey Park on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-c-park-00419b109?lipi=urn%3Ali%3Apage%3Ad_flagship3_profile_view_base_contact_details%3B5RLbL04qTBCsFI1GhLF6Aw%3D%3D More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks to the CEO & Investor of Build Grow Scale, Matthew Stafford. As the CEO of Build Grow Scale, Matthew and his team are committed to refining the path from a customer's initial website visit to the final purchase or lead submission. Their expertise covers e-commerce, membership programs, lead generation sites, and tech and optimization services. Matthew shared his knowledge on the tactical side of website optimization, emphasizing the pivotal role of Google Analytics. By utilizing website analytics, Stafford has led e-commerce businesses to significant gains in sales and conversions, demonstrating the transformative impact of data-driven optimization. One of the most enlightening parts of the conversation revolved around the common gaps in e-commerce. Stafford highlighted the importance of refining the transaction process, especially the cart and checkout experience. His advice to businesses is to work backward from the checkout, ensuring that this critical juncture is as seamless as possible for customers. Matthew discussed how leveraging webinars and video content can inform and captivate potential clients. This strategy educates and builds rapport with the audience, fostering trust and engagement. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of the guest, Matthew Stafford, CEO of Build Grow Scale Overview of Build Grow Scale's focus on optimizing the customer journey for e-commerce and lead generation websites Discussion on website optimization and the tactical aspects of the user journey Emphasis on common gaps in e-commerce and the importance of optimizing the transaction process Insights into educating potential customers, particularly in the context of B2B service providers About Matthew Stafford: Matthew Stafford is a versatile entrepreneur with three decades of success in various industries, including construction, e-commerce, and software. As CEO of Build Grow Scale and an equity owner in several e-commerce brands, he has used his expertise to mentor thousands of store owners and help hundreds of brands surpass the million-dollar revenue mark, some even reaching over $10 million. Known for speaking at e-commerce optimization events for seven years, Matthew's achievements include organizing BGS LIVE, North America's largest e-commerce event pre-COVID-19. Despite external successes, he emphasizes the importance of internal satisfaction and self-worth over material achievements. Matthew advocates for a balanced approach to entrepreneurship that values personal growth and fulfillment as much as professional success. He shares insights and experiences on platforms like LinkedIn, aiming to inspire others to find inner peace and joy while pursuing their entrepreneurial goals. About Build Grow Scale: Build Grow Scale (BGS) is an influential community designed for eCommerce entrepreneurs and physical product sellers seeking to elevate their businesses. Unlike many online marketing companies, BGS offers practical, real-world insights and strategies that are actively used in its operations. With a portfolio of successful eCommerce brands across various niches and hands-on experience in product manufacturing and logistics through their private shipping and fulfillment company, BGS offers authenticity and expertise. Their educational resources include online courses, certification programs, private workshops, and the annual Build Grow Scale Live conference. This comprehensive approach ensures members receive theoretical knowledge and actionable advice from seasoned professionals deeply involved in the eCommerce world. BGS's commitment to "doing the stuff" they teach cements their position as a unique and trusted guide in the business education scene. Tweetable Moments: 04:45 - "If your website isn't simple, easy to understand, and easy to navigate, then it's not very good at conversing, and you just don't have the credibility with your clients that you're looking for." 08:02 - "One of the greatest ways we've ever figured out to improve is by asking customers on the thank you page what was the one thing that almost made them not buy. This question reveals the friction points they experienced." 13:44 - "Giving people information without making them jump through hoops just feels nicer. It's like treating someone more like an adult, rather than playing a little game." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Build Grow Scale website at https://buildgrowscale.com/ Check out Build Grow Scale on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/build-grow-scale/ Check out Build Grow Scale on Twitter at https://twitter.com/BuildGrowScale Check out Build Grow Scale on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/BuildGrowScaleEcommEducation Check out Build Grow Scale on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/bgs_ecom_education Check out Matthew Stafford on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthewstafforddotcom/ Check out Matthew Stafford on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/matthewjacobstafford Check out  Matthew Stafford on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/matthewstafford815/ More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.

In this episode of the Thoughtful Entrepreneur, your host Josh Elledge speaks with the Principal & Owner of Stan Gibson Speaks, Stan Gibson. Stan Gibson is a leadership consultant who has dedicated his life to empowering others. As the founder and CEO of Stan Gibson Speaks, he has carved out a niche for himself in the industry, guiding individuals and organizations towards achieving their full potential. Stan delved into the core principles that underpin effective leadership. One of the most profound takeaways was the importance of authenticity. Stan champions the courage to be oneself, even when it means admitting you don't have all the answers. This level of honesty fosters trust within teams and encourages a culture of continuous learning and growth. Stan also emphasized the value of emotional intelligence in leadership. The ability to understand and manage one's emotions and empathize with others is crucial in today's fast-paced and interconnected world. Leaders who master this skill are better equipped to navigate the complexities of human dynamics, leading to more cohesive and productive teams. What sets Stan apart in his coaching and consulting practice is his tailored approach. He recognizes that each individual and team has unique challenges and aspirations. By working across various industries and organizational sizes, Stan has developed a keen ability to adapt his strategies to meet the specific needs of his clients, ensuring impactful and lasting change. Key Points from the Episode: Introduction of Stan Gibson Insights on leadership and authenticity Embracing uncertainty for personal and professional growth Value of emotional intelligence Approach to coaching and consulting Speaking engagements, both in-person and virtual Impact of presentations on corporate teams and industry events Resources available on Stan Gibson's website Practical advice for enhancing leadership skills About Stan Gibson: Stan Gibson is a seasoned leadership coach with a passion for transforming organizational culture and enhancing team dynamics. With a rich background as a senior executive at two Fortune 500 companies and an entrepreneur, he specializes in people-centric leadership, aiming to elevate C-suite leaders and their teams beyond their expectations. Stan work focuses on improving team connectivity, defining roles, and boosting productivity through purposeful and intentional strategies. Stan, who has been married for 40 years and met his wife in the third grade, is also a compelling keynote speaker. He captivates audiences with topics on advanced leadership, the future workplace, and the economic environment. Stan delves into the science of wellbeing, exploring how leaders can harness energy through sleep, nutrition, exercise, mindfulness, and more, to achieve optimal performance. Stan is also an author and an avid researcher, further contributing to his expertise in fostering leadership and organizational growth. Tweetable Moments: 7:02 - "I think one of the strongest forms of emotional intelligence, is having the courage to say 'I don't know'." 9:09 - "Growth lies in the land of uncertainty, and typically, when we think we've got it all figured out, Josh, is when we're probably further away from the truth." Links Mentioned in this Episode: Want to learn more? Check out Stan Gibson Speaks website at https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com/ Check out Stan Gibson Speaks on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/stangibsonspeaks/ Check out Stan Gibson on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/oxygenplus/ Check out Stan Gibson on Twitter at https://twitter.com/stankgibson Check out Stan Gibson on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/stankgibson Check out  Stan Gibson on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/stangibson_/?hl=en Check out 7 Habits of Highly Effective People Centric Leaders and Double Down on YOU Wellbeing at https://www.stangibsonspeaks.com/leadership-qualities More from UpMyInfluence: We are actively booking guests for our The Thoughtful Entrepreneur. Schedule HERE. Are you a 6-figure consultant? I’ve got high-level intros for you. Learn more here. What is your #1 Lead Generation BLOCKER? Take my free quiz here. Want to learn more about all the podcasts managed by UpMyInfluence? Opt in here.