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Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin - Podcast about Podcasting for Podcasters


1 164: Foundations of Podcast Growth: Grow Your Podcast Series Pt. 1 10:41
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Are you tired of releasing episodes week to week and getting no download growth? In this episode, I’m kicking off a brand-new series where I’ll be breaking down the exact strategies you need to expand your podcast audience—starting with the essential foundations. In this first episode, I’m covering: Why podcast growth matters (and why it’s NOT just about big numbers) The 3 core growth strategies: organic, collaborations, and paid growth What sustainable, realistic growth actually looks like Whether you’re just getting started or looking to scale, this series will give you the tools you need to grow your show strategically. Today's episode is brought to you by Mic Check Society , our community for podcasters who are looking to take their podcast from good to great. Come join us for educational trainings, a private member's only community, and monthly calls! Get $10 off per month with code PODCAST at micchecksociety.com . Clocking In with Haylee Gaffin is produced by Gaffin Creative , a podcast production company for creative entrepreneurs. Learn more about our services at Gaffincreative.com , plus you’ll also find resources, show notes, and more for the Clocking In Podcast. Time-stamps: Why podcast growth matters (2:09) Three pillars of podcast growth (3:39) Organic growth (3:52) Collaboration and borrowing audiences (4:31) Paid growth opportunities (5:11) What sustainable growth looks like (6:36) Connect with Haylee: instagram.com/hayleegaffin Gaffincreative.com micchecksociety.com Review the Transcript: https://share.descript.com/view/Plzue2YOIAh Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.…
8.15 – Linh Podetti – Outsouring Angel
Manage episode 436943754 series 1953682
Content provided by Rising Tide. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Rising Tide or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
From the bustling streets of Vietnam to the competitive business landscape of Australia, Linh Podetti's entrepreneurial journey is one of grit and innovation. As the founder of Outsourcing Angel, Linh transformed her experiences as a single mother into a business model that champions flexibility and remote work. Her story challenges conventional notions of success, showing how personal challenges can spark creative business solutions that resonate globally. Linh's path wasn't always smooth. She evolved from an e-commerce startup to creating Outsourcing Angel, a company that connects virtual assistants in the Philippines with businesses in Australia and the US. Along the way, she learned crucial lessons about delegation, efficiency, and client focus. In this episode, Linh reveals key strategies for scaling a business without sacrificing personal freedom. She shares practical tips on building effective remote teams, implementing systems for growth, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. Linh's insights on cross-cultural business operations and creating win-win situations for both clients and contractors offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to expand their business globally or optimize their current operations. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Personal challenges can inspire business ideas. Solving your own problems can lead to successful ventures that help others. Effective delegation and outsourcing are key to growth. Entrepreneurship requires persistence and adaptability. Early setbacks often lead to valuable lessons and eventual success. Prioritizing both client and employee needs creates a balanced, sustainable business environment. Focusing on core strengths prevents burnout. It's important to recognize and leverage what you do best. For some, faith provides purpose and balance in business. It can guide decision-making and help manage stress. Understanding customer needs is crucial. This requires market knowledge and effective communication. Continuous learning keeps businesses relevant. Embrace new skills and adapt to changing markets. Sharing knowledge and fostering community can benefit everyone. A collaborative approach often leads to mutual growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Linh Podetti: LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/linhpodetti Linh Podetti: https://linhpodetti.com/ Outsourcing Angel: https://outsourcingangel.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinhPodetti/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linhpod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@linhpodetti Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!
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300 episodes
Manage episode 436943754 series 1953682
Content provided by Rising Tide. All podcast content including episodes, graphics, and podcast descriptions are uploaded and provided directly by Rising Tide or their podcast platform partner. If you believe someone is using your copyrighted work without your permission, you can follow the process outlined here https://player.fm/legal.
From the bustling streets of Vietnam to the competitive business landscape of Australia, Linh Podetti's entrepreneurial journey is one of grit and innovation. As the founder of Outsourcing Angel, Linh transformed her experiences as a single mother into a business model that champions flexibility and remote work. Her story challenges conventional notions of success, showing how personal challenges can spark creative business solutions that resonate globally. Linh's path wasn't always smooth. She evolved from an e-commerce startup to creating Outsourcing Angel, a company that connects virtual assistants in the Philippines with businesses in Australia and the US. Along the way, she learned crucial lessons about delegation, efficiency, and client focus. In this episode, Linh reveals key strategies for scaling a business without sacrificing personal freedom. She shares practical tips on building effective remote teams, implementing systems for growth, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. Linh's insights on cross-cultural business operations and creating win-win situations for both clients and contractors offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to expand their business globally or optimize their current operations. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Personal challenges can inspire business ideas. Solving your own problems can lead to successful ventures that help others. Effective delegation and outsourcing are key to growth. Entrepreneurship requires persistence and adaptability. Early setbacks often lead to valuable lessons and eventual success. Prioritizing both client and employee needs creates a balanced, sustainable business environment. Focusing on core strengths prevents burnout. It's important to recognize and leverage what you do best. For some, faith provides purpose and balance in business. It can guide decision-making and help manage stress. Understanding customer needs is crucial. This requires market knowledge and effective communication. Continuous learning keeps businesses relevant. Embrace new skills and adapt to changing markets. Sharing knowledge and fostering community can benefit everyone. A collaborative approach often leads to mutual growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Linh Podetti: LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/linhpodetti Linh Podetti: https://linhpodetti.com/ Outsourcing Angel: https://outsourcingangel.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinhPodetti/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linhpod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@linhpodetti Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!
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Rising Tide Startups

The business is growing. You’re overwhelmed. Welcome to the small business black hole. For Alan Pence, founder of the Owner Institute, building a multi-million dollar company didn’t come from working more hours or saying yes to everything. It came from realizing that what got him to $1M in revenue was exactly what was keeping him from going further. Like many founders, Alan hit the wall. The point where the systems broke down, burnout started creeping in. That wall? He calls it the “small business black hole.” In this episode of Rising Tide Startups, we sit down with Alan to unpack the patterns he’s seen across hundreds of businesses. He explains why burnout, blurred vision, and stalled growth are symptoms of a deeper issue: the business is built around the founder instead of beyond them. Alan shares how to shift from being stuck in the day-to-day to building a company that scales sustainably—with clear systems, empowered leadership, and a renewed sense of purpose. Whether you're hitting a revenue ceiling, burned out from doing everything yourself, or wondering if your business is building a life you want—this episode is for you. It’s honest, practical, and filled with the kind of insights you’ll wish you had five years ago. Key Takeaways: Founders often become the bottleneck. Many businesses stall because the owner is doing too much or holding on too tightly. Start with personal vision. You need to know what kind of life you want before you build a business to support it. You can't scale if you try to do everything. At each stage, the owner must shift roles, delegate, and level up skills. Hire for what drains you. Free up your time and energy by handing off tasks that wear you down. Understanding your numbers helps you grow without guessing or overspending. Common Barriers at Different Stages $1M Stage: Founder is doing too much. Needs to focus on sales and delegate everything else. $2–5M Stage: Growth requires key operational hires to handle increased complexity. $5–10M Stage: Need to build a real leadership team with specialized functions (sales, ops, HR, etc.). $10M+ Stage: Owner must extract themselves from what they’re best at and structure scalable systems. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Alan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alanpentz/ Owner Institute: https://www.ownerinstitute.com/ Closing thought: “Small businesses stay small for a reason. That reason is the owner.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Podbrand Media - Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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What happens when you follow your gut, not a roadmap? For Heintze Malack—known to her friends and followers as Heinz—entrepreneurship didn’t start with a business degree or a polished pitch deck. It started with paper boats and a big imagination. Now the founder of the fashion brand The Twentieth, Heinz has built a business from scratch by turning scrolls into sales and ideas into brands. Through smart content, bold storytelling, and Meta Ads that actually work, she’s crafted a community-powered brand with viral moments and sold-out launches, all without following a script. In this new episode of The Rising Tide Startups, we sit down with Heinzte to talk about taking chances on things without guaranteeing they’ll work. Heinz shares how faith, curiosity, and emotion have guided every leap, from a spontaneous three-month trip that turned into a permanent move to launching a brand without investors or industry connections. She talks TikTok virality, launching campaigns that convert, and the art of balancing remote work with her dream of opening a community bakery. This episode is full of laughter, life lessons, and honest reflections on impostor syndrome, grit, and staying creative even when things feel uncertain. Whether you’re a founder, a dreamer, or somewhere in between, Heinz’s story will remind you that it’s okay to start before you feel ready and that purpose often shows up when you least expect it. Key Takeaways: Entrepreneurial spirit often shows up early. Childhood moments of creativity and initiative can reveal a future in business. Bold moves create momentum. Taking risks before you're fully ready often leads to the biggest breakthroughs. Career pivots start with curiosity. New passions emerge when you step into unfamiliar tasks and stay open to change. Authentic storytelling builds connection. People relate more to real, behind-the-scenes journeys than to polished marketing. The best products solve your problems. If you've felt the pain point, chances are others have too. Remote businesses rely on local trust. Strong, on-the-ground partnerships are key to sustainable operations. "Start before you're ready and refine later. Waiting for perfect conditions can stall your progress. Action is what builds momentum. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Heintze: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hcvmalack/ The Twentieth: https://www.thetwentieth.co/ Closing thought: “Success isn’t about having it all planned out—it’s about showing up, staying curious, and letting your story lead the way.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Podbrand Media - Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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What if you could grow a business without ads or cold calls? That’s exactly what Mike Faraci set out to prove and did. Now the Founder & CEO of Red Button Media, Mike helps brands rise above the noise with authentic, story-driven video content. But his path didn’t start with a marketing budget or a polished campaign. It started with one camera, a clear message, and a commitment to post on LinkedIn for 500 days straight. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups, we talk with Mike about how he built a media company from scratch without spending a dime on ads or picking up the phone for cold outreach. Mike shares how he developed systems around strategic content, how to speak to a “Target Viewer Persona,” and why trust-building starts with showing up as yourself online. This isn’t just a conversation about content strategy, it’s about discipline, self-belief, and doing the unscalable work when no one’s paying attention. Whether you're a solopreneur, startup founder, or just tired of growth tactics that feel fake, Mike’s story is a reminder that showing up with purpose and consistency can still beat the algorithm. Key Takeaways: Consistency beats perfection. It’s not about being flawless, it’s about being there. Show up regularly and let the momentum build. Content replaces cold calls. Done right, consistent content creation brings in warm, inbound leads—no ads, no chasing. Trust is built through familiarity. Every scroll-by impression adds up. People trust faces they recognize. Be visible. The cost of silence is high. If you're not showing up, your competitors are. Inaction has a price. Put a face to the brand. Personal content outperforms faceless brands. Relatability wins. Capture attention instantly. You’ve got only 3–5 seconds to lead with value or lose the moment. If you're not creating content in 2025, you're already behind. Organic visibility isn’t optional anymore, it’s the baseline. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Mike: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mikefaraci Red Button Media:: https://www.hittheredbutton.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/themikefaraci/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/mikefaraci Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@mike.faraci Closing thought: “If you’re not building a founder-led brand, you’re leaving trust, visibility, and opportunity on the table. Mike proves that showing up consistently isn’t optional—it’s the new competitive edge.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Ken Mack doesn’t follow the traditional path of entrepreneurship—he skips the startup phase entirely. Instead of building from scratch, he focuses on acquiring and scaling existing businesses, often using little to none of his own capital. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, we chat with Ken Mack, an investor, also known as “The Eccentric Entrepreneur” due to his unconventional approach to building wealth. Ken shares his strategy of acquiring established companies, from his beginnings in Glasgow to managing a diverse portfolio of businesses worldwide. Ken dives into the tactics that have helped him scale rapidly, focusing on the power of leveraged buyouts (LBOs) and seller financing to minimize personal financial risk. He emphasizes the importance of tracking key metrics like Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) and Lifetime Value (LTV) to ensure sustainable growth. Beyond financial strategies, Ken discusses the mindset shifts required for success—embracing discomfort, thinking long-term, and continuously learning. He also highlights the importance of strategic networking for finding new opportunities. Ken's journey is a powerful reminder that wealth is built by seizing opportunities where others see obstacles and that the right mindset can turn even the most unconventional paths into success stories. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Established businesses are safer bets. Proven cash flow and systems reduce the risk compared to starting from scratch. Leverage other people’s money (OPM). Using LBOs (leveraging buyouts) and seller financing allows for business acquisitions without tying up personal capital. Target retiring business owners. Baby boomers represent a goldmine of acquisition opportunities. Cash flow is king. Focus on cash flow over profit margins for sustainable growth and debt management. Efficiency and remote management. Building reliable teams and systems enables managing multiple businesses from afar. Mindset is everything. Getting comfortable with risk and embracing the unknown is essential for success. Entrepreneurship is a ‘lifestyle,’ not just a career choice. Success comes from discomfort and pushing limits. Buy businesses at 1x free cash flow, and sell at 2–3x EBITDA. This increases valuation before exiting. Start small, gain experience, and build networks. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Ken: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenmackofficial Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/KenMack/ Instagram:: https://www.instagram.com/kenmack/ Website:: https://www.kenmack.com/ Closing thought: “You don’t need to reinvent the wheel—buy an existing business and scale it.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2025! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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This Episode - Turning an Unlikely Business into a Multi-Million Dollar Success Meet Will Milliken, president of a fast-growing dog waste removal company and founder of the President of Swoop Scoop® and founder of Poop Scoop Millionaire™. What started as a small side hustle has become a booming business with multiple locations and a thriving online community for aspiring entrepreneurs. Will shares how he transitioned from digital marketing to home services, why the pet waste removal industry took off, and the key strategies that helped him scale. With a focus on exceptional service and customer care, Swoop Scoop® has grown into a leading company serving thousands of satisfied clients. We also cover the marketing strategies that work (and don’t), building a standout brand, and the importance of fast customer response times. Plus, Will shares the surprising lessons he learned from a failed partnership with Pizza Hut and how he’s preparing for national expansion. Key Takeaways: Standardized, flat-rate pricing works best: customers prefer knowing costs upfront. Fast response time is critical: answering inquiries quickly sets businesses apart in home services. Professional branding (uniforms, truck wraps, CRM systems) increases trust and allows for premium pricing. Scaling starts with predictable lead generation. The biggest bottleneck is acquiring customers consistently. Marketing experiments matter. Facebook ads, Google SEO, and wrapped trucks work best, while some partnerships (like pizza box ads) miss the mark. Standardized operations make scaling easier. A clear system for hiring, training, and customer acquisition makes franchising a real possibility. Track Customer Acquisition Cost (CAC) vs. Customer Lifetime Value (LTV): understanding these numbers earlier could have cut growth time in half. Anticipate bottlenecks as you scale: hiring, vehicle acquisition, and equipment logistics become challenges as the business grows. If you don’t know how to acquire customers, your business will struggle. If you're not willing to start a poop scooping business, you're probably not going to start any business. Will’s journey proves that even the most unexpected businesses can be wildly profitable with the right systems and mindset. Ready to think outside the box (or the yard)? This episode will change the way you look at service businesses. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Will: Swoop Scoop: https://swoopscoop.com Poop Scoop: https://www.skool.com/poop-scoop-millionaire LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/william-milliken Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@Scoop-Start Blog: https://scoopstart.com/ Closing thought: “Big opportunities come from solving everyday problems. Price smart, systemize, and scale—success will follow.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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1 9.02 – Mohamed “Mo” Ahmed – Boundless Founder Community 1:13:24
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How Failing Forward can become a blueprint for entrepreneurial success! Mohamed "Mo"Ahmed, founder of the Boundless Founder community and author of The Inside Out Entrepreneur, shares his journey from a corporate career at Microsoft and AWS to navigating the unpredictable world of startups. After starting his first company in 2017, Mohamed faced tough challenges—including a failed acquisition—that pushed him to rethink his approach to leadership, resilience, and mindset. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Mohamed talks about how he handled setbacks, pivoted his business, and managed the emotional ups and downs of entrepreneurship. He also explains how his passion for helping others led him to build a community that supports technical founders with the tools and guidance they need to succeed. Through his experiences, Mohamed has learned how to turn failures into opportunities to grow and build something meaningful. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, this episode offers practical advice on staying resilient, finding your purpose, and making progress even when things get tough. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The right mindset—resilience, balance, and adaptability—is the most valuable asset for an entrepreneur. A mental conditioning framework can help entrepreneurs understand their journey beyond business metrics, develop mental toughness, and maintain perspective during challenges. Calculating risks and clear thinking under pressure help to prevent mistakes stemming from overconfidence and fear-driven decision-making. Practical tools for resilience allow entrepreneurs to bounce back from setbacks and ensure long-term sustainability. Entrepreneurs must condition loved ones emotionally and financially prepared for challenges. Building and maintaining a strong support system is crucial, including balancing family life with business demands and finding the right mentors for guidance. Entrepreneurship is a balance of chasing success while fearing failure. These opposing forces drive innovation and personal growth. Entrepreneurs need a robust ecosystem—mentors, peers, and supportive families—to sustain them through challenges. Entrepreneurs should ensure their self-worth isn’t entirely tied to their venture’s success to avoid burnout and remain employable. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Mo: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mohamedfahmed/ Mohamed F Ahmed: http://mohamedfahmed.com/ X: http://www.twitter.com/MohamedFAhmed Special Offer for Listeners FREE Rising Tide Exclusive Bundle ($147 value): The Mindset Guide Mental Robustness and Resiliency Workbook Special Chapter: "Recovery Strategies After Setbacks" Available at: www.boundlessfounder.co/risingtide-special 25% discount on Boundless Founder Community membership using code: RISINGTIDE25 Book Reader's Package: Access to monthly group coaching sessions Exclusive entrepreneurial resilience assessment tool Private community access Register at: www.boundlessfounder.co/risingtide-bonus Closing thought: “Entrepreneurship is about building something bigger than yourself, not just escaping a job or chasing wealth.” Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help.…
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1 9.01 – Tekla Tskhvediani – Career Mentor – Tekla Toppings 38:37
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In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Tekla Tskhvediani shares how she went from Georgia’s corporate hospitality industry to creating a location-independent career in Bali. She talks about what led her to take that leap, the challenges she faced, and how she built a career that gives her both freedom and fulfillment. Tekla explains why the traditional job-hunting approach, like sending out resumes and hoping for the best, doesn’t work anymore. She shares how showcasing your value, thinking outside the box, and aligning your strengths with market needs can open new doors. From her own journey to the lessons she now teaches as a career mentor, Tekla offers advice for anyone looking to create a career on their own terms. If you’ve ever thought about working remotely, switching careers, or just designing a work life that fits you better, this episode is for you. Tekla’s approach is all about flexibility, creativity, and making career choices that align with the life you want. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Offering free value and fostering genuine connections can establish trust and credibility before monetizing your expertise. Confidence in pricing and business growth comes from proven results rather than vague affirmations. Clients benefit more from specific, actionable guidance that reduces decision fatigue than from generic advice. A successful coaching business must balance scalability with maintaining personalized, high-quality support. Traditional job applications are outdated—standing out requires creativity, personal branding, and authenticity. Personal career struggles can become a powerful asset when helping others navigate similar challenges. Sustainable business growth relies on consistent value delivery and authentic relationship-building, rather than aggressive marketing. Overcoming mental barriers and self-imposed limitations is often the biggest step toward career transformation. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Tekla Tskhvediani: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tekla-tskhvediani-24b81a105 Website: https://pillar.io/teklatoppings Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/teklatoppingstestimonials Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective content creation and lead generation!…
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1 8.22 – Kevin Prewett – 2024 Recap Episode – Host of Rising Tide Startups 6:27
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Today, the final day of 2024, we turn the mic around and close out a banner year by hearing from our host. Kevin Prewett is the founder and CEO of Rising Tide Startups Podcast and Podbrandmedia.com. With a passion for empowering entrepreneurs and brands, Kevin has built a platform dedicated to helping startup founders grow and scale their businesses through the power of podcasting and media. As a seasoned podcaster and media strategist, he combines his expertise in content creation with his commitment to fostering innovation and community in the startup ecosystem. Through his work at Podbrandmedia.com, Kevin assists businesses in leveraging podcasts as a powerful tool for marketing, branding, and audience engagement. Kevin shares a short recap of 2024 and looks ahead at some exciting opportunities for 2025. Thanks again for playing your part in "helping all boats rise in a rising tide!"…
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1 8.21 – Hailey Brooke Weiss – Power Move Marketing 38:00
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In this episode of Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Hailey Brooke Weiss, founder and CEO of Power Move Marketing, shares how her journey from collegiate volleyball captain to marketing agency leader has shaped her approach to business and leadership. With a passion for adaptability and innovation, Hailey has built a remote-first agency that offers tailored, integrated solutions to startups, acting as an in-house marketing partner for businesses. Hailey reveals how her team navigates industry shifts, from leveraging AI to adjusting to new trends and legislation, while balancing creativity and analytics to help clients achieve tangible results. As a leader of a 30+ person remote team, she emphasizes the importance of trust, delegation, and letting creative people be creative, drawing from her athletic background to focus on accountability and leading by example. This episode provides practical advice on leadership, marketing trends, and the mindset needed to grow a successful business. If you're looking to elevate your marketing game and learn from a leader who blends strategy with heart, this conversation with Hailey Brooke Weiss is a must-listen. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Implementing an omni-channel marketing strategy across TikTok, Instagram, and LinkedIn creates multiple sustainable revenue streams for business growth. Establishing clear project parameters while avoiding micromanagement empowers creative teams to deliver exceptional client results. When addressing challenges, leading with curiosity instead of criticism transforms team dynamics and improves problem-solving efficiency. Converting major household brands through consistent social media content demonstrates how digital presence drives significant business acquisition. Eliminating long-term contracts and maintaining service flexibility helps retain startup clients in rapidly changing market conditions. Focusing on target audience needs rather than industry specialization enables successful client acquisition across diverse business sectors. Building a fully remote team culture based on trust and autonomy creates high employee retention and increased productivity. Leveraging specialist expertise within the team rather than handling everything personally accelerates agency scaling and client satisfaction. Maintaining an authentic social media presence and consistent messaging across platforms strengthens brand credibility and drives organic growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Hailey Brooke Weiss: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/haileybrookeweiss/ Power Move Marketing: https://powermovemarketing.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/haileybrooke8 Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2025! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Rising Tide Startups

How does a flight instructor turn financial struggles into a groundbreaking fintech? Jason Schappert, founder of Moola, shares his journey from teaching aviation to empowering financial literacy through innovative fintech solutions. From being a college dropout to building a multi-million-dollar online flight school, Jason turned challenges into opportunities and now helps others navigate their own paths to success. In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, Jason talks about the lessons he learned from running and selling his aviation business, and how he found markets that needed help to create Moola, a platform made to make personal finances easier. He gives useful tips on finding your niche, trying out business ideas, and building a successful business. Jason has broken down the complex into simple, actionable steps, and empowered countless aspiring entrepreneurs and everyday individuals to reach their goals. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Leverage early adopter platforms like YouTube and TikTok to build a loyal audience and validate business concepts. Clean and professional financial record-keeping is crucial for attracting potential investors and acquisition opportunities. Focus on serving an underserved market demographic by understanding their specific challenges and communication styles. Automate savings and financial processes to make complex financial management more accessible and user-friendly. Embrace incremental progress by prioritizing consistent small wins over seeking unrealistic overnight success. Social media is a powerful tool for market research, audience engagement, and viral marketing strategies. Build products that simplify complex topics and make intimidating processes (like investing) more approachable for younger generations. Personal branding and storytelling can be powerful differentiators in crowded market spaces. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Jason Schappert: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonschappert/ Moola: https://moo.la/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups Podcast, Bradley Hamner, founder of Blueprint OS and host of “Above The Business”, shares how small business owners can scale sustainably by designing systems that drive growth and efficiency, and free up their time. Having experienced firsthand the shift from burnout to balance, Bradley introduces his SCALE framework—Sustainable Revenue, Consistent Growth, Ample Time Away, Leverage, and Efficient Operations—which helps entrepreneurs grow without sacrificing their well-being. Bradley explains how shifting from being the “rainmaker” to the “architect” of your business allows you to create systems that operate independently. He highlights the importance of taking strategic breaks to recharge, arguing that time away can actually fuel long-term growth. Finally, Bradley encourages owners to work “above” their business, dedicating time each week to strategic thinking and long-term planning. His insights empower small business owners to break free from the daily grind and build businesses that thrive independently. Through the SCALE framework, entrepreneurs gain practical strategies to boost revenue, achieve consistent growth, and reclaim their time for strategic focus. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Personal development is key to business growth, helping entrepreneurs scale and launch new ventures successfully. A practical framework for scaling businesses focuses on sustainable growth, leadership, and reaching revenue milestones. Dedicating time away from daily tasks for strategic thinking boosts decision-making and satisfaction. Executive assistants and efficient operating systems allow entrepreneurs to focus on growth instead of daily operations. The Rule of 40 combines growth and profitability percentages to maintain a healthy balance for sustainable business success. Taking time off helps business owners improve their personal well-being and business health. A clear roadmap and community support provide guidance and shared learning for business owners with similar goals. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Bradley Hamner: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bradleyhamner/ BlueprintOS: https://www.blueprintos.com/ Above The Business: https://www.abovethebusiness.co/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Building a niche website is one thing, but turning it into a thriving SEO agency? That’s a whole different game. On this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, Kevin Prewett sits down with Nile Frater, founder of Masse SEO and former owner of NoCode.Tech. Nile shares his journey from creating a no-code tech site to selling it and launching his next big venture in SEO. He dives into the highs and lows of selling a business—navigating buyer interest, tough negotiations, and ultimately sealing the deal. With 8+ years in the no-code space, Nile has tested over 250 platforms and taught businesses of all sizes. He also explores how AI has evolved in content creation, helping writers overcome creative blocks and produce more content faster, though the balance between facts and opinions still poses challenges. Nile doesn’t shy away from discussing the challenges of scaling Masse SEO, revealing key strategies for growth while maintaining quality. Whether you're into SEO, content creation, or curious about the impact of AI, this episode offers plenty of actionable insights. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: AI tools can help writers break through creative blocks and ramp up content production, but they still fall short when it comes to handling subjective content. To scale without losing quality, systemizing your operations is a must, especially when you're handling high volumes of content. Selling a business comes with its own rollercoaster—strategic negotiations and emotional highs that every entrepreneur can learn from. AI is great for handling factual information, but when it comes to producing nuanced, high-quality content, human expertise is still essential. To grow your business and keep clients happy, structured operations and a solid support system are key. Scaling your SEO strategy takes high-volume content publishing and a clear market focus to succeed. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Nile Frater: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nile-frater-b1772370/ Masse SEO: https://www.masse.marketing/ NoCode.Tech: https://www.nocode.tech/ X (Twitter): https://x.com/nile Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Can a single tool grow into a thriving business with thousands of loyal customers? In this episode of the Rising Tide Startups podcast, host Kevin Prewett sits down with Bilal Ararou, the visionary founder of Nuelink, to unpack his journey from a freelance web designer to the creator of an innovative social media automation platform. Bilal reveals how Nuelink, originally built to streamline his agency's social media tasks, quickly evolved into a robust tool packed with AI-driven features that simplify everything from scheduling posts to automating podcast updates. What sets Nuelink apart is Bilal's ability to spot a real need in the market. After earlier ventures failed due to lack of demand, he hit the mark this time by solving a problem faced by countless businesses. Nuelink's cutting-edge features, like automated content creation and task automation for podcast updates and Google reviews, have transformed the social media management landscape. Bilal's entrepreneurial roots trace back to his childhood when he sold marbles and rented out his Game Boy. Now, he's on a mission to build Morocco's first unicorn company, proving that world-class innovation can emerge from anywhere. His story is a powerful reminder of how solving real-world problems can lead to groundbreaking success that transcends borders. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Using AI-driven automation in social media tools can simplify managing a business’s online presence. Validating market demand through initial experiments and waitlists ensures product development aligns with real user needs, fostering confidence in further investment. Learning from past failures by analyzing the lack of demand can shape more effective approaches to product development and market fit. Implementing a structured hiring process focused on practical skills rather than resumes ensures a capable team that aligns well with organizational needs. Using insights from top business books can improve operations and management strategies, leading to ongoing growth. Engaging with niche communities and forming partnerships can boost product visibility and early user traction. Planning product expansions based on customer feedback drives continuous improvement and long-term industry relevance. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Bilal Ararou: LinkedIn: https://ma.linkedin.com/in/bilalararou Nuelink: https://nuelink.com/ Kreatinc: https://www.kreatinc.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bilalararou/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective content creation and lead generation!…
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James Pietruszynsk, CEO of SoulSight, brings a unique perspective to branding. He believes that effective brands are built on genuine emotional connections and a deep understanding of human behavior. James recognizes the challenge of balancing innovation with brand consistency, emphasizing the importance of meaningful changes that enhance consumer experiences rather than superficial alterations. At SoulSight, James fosters an environment that encourages both strategic thinking and creativity. He values collaboration and honest feedback, grounding his approach in behavioral analysis and empathy. His expertise in strategic insight and design has led to successful partnerships with major companies including Kraft Heinz, Coca-Cola, Molson Coors, General Mills, Pfizer, Unilever, and Hershey's. James' work has garnered recognition from various industry publications and awards programs, including Graphis, How, Print, Communication Arts, and Pentawards. Despite these accolades, James remains focused on his core mission: understanding human behavior and using those insights to create brands that resonate authentically with people. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Emotional connections are crucial for brand resonance. Brands that effectively tap into emotions forge stronger consumer relationships. Authentic brand identities stem from understanding human truths. Effective branding combines strategy, innovation, and research to create cohesive, emotionally aligned narratives. Successful branding balances innovation with core brand essence. Meaningful changes should enhance consumer experiences without risking brand identity. Empathy is key to understanding both brand and audience needs. Brands should evolve with cultural shifts to maintain relevance. Global brand expansion requires understanding and collaboration. Lessons from major branding organizations can guide work with larger brands. Leaders should encourage growth, accept mistakes, and promote continuous evolution for competitiveness and innovation. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with James Pietruszynski: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jim-pietruszynski-4a30836/ SoulSight: https://soulsight.com/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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From the bustling streets of Vietnam to the competitive business landscape of Australia, Linh Podetti's entrepreneurial journey is one of grit and innovation. As the founder of Outsourcing Angel, Linh transformed her experiences as a single mother into a business model that champions flexibility and remote work. Her story challenges conventional notions of success, showing how personal challenges can spark creative business solutions that resonate globally. Linh's path wasn't always smooth. She evolved from an e-commerce startup to creating Outsourcing Angel, a company that connects virtual assistants in the Philippines with businesses in Australia and the US. Along the way, she learned crucial lessons about delegation, efficiency, and client focus. In this episode, Linh reveals key strategies for scaling a business without sacrificing personal freedom. She shares practical tips on building effective remote teams, implementing systems for growth, and maintaining work-life balance as an entrepreneur. Linh's insights on cross-cultural business operations and creating win-win situations for both clients and contractors offer valuable lessons for anyone looking to expand their business globally or optimize their current operations. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Personal challenges can inspire business ideas. Solving your own problems can lead to successful ventures that help others. Effective delegation and outsourcing are key to growth. Entrepreneurship requires persistence and adaptability. Early setbacks often lead to valuable lessons and eventual success. Prioritizing both client and employee needs creates a balanced, sustainable business environment. Focusing on core strengths prevents burnout. It's important to recognize and leverage what you do best. For some, faith provides purpose and balance in business. It can guide decision-making and help manage stress. Understanding customer needs is crucial. This requires market knowledge and effective communication. Continuous learning keeps businesses relevant. Embrace new skills and adapt to changing markets. Sharing knowledge and fostering community can benefit everyone. A collaborative approach often leads to mutual growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Linh Podetti: LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/linhpodetti Linh Podetti: https://linhpodetti.com/ Outsourcing Angel: https://outsourcingangel.com/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LinhPodetti/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linhpod/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@linhpodetti Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Rising Tide Startups

From working in his family's Michigan restaurant to running his own tech company, Dexter Zhuang's story shows that hard work and smart planning can take you where you want to go. Dexter is the founder of Money Abroad, an online education platform that helps high-performers design their independent money paths. He started his career in San Francisco but has lived and worked across Southeast Asia and Latin America for the past six years. With over 10 years of experience building products and teams at public companies like Dropbox and scaling startups like Xendit, Dexter turned a side project into his main gig. In this episode, he shares that many startups, including his, come from scratching a personal itch. His work has been featured in global outlets like Business Insider, CBS, US News & World Report, and Tech in Asia. Now, Dexter runs his own company, helps other startups, and offers advice based on his extensive experience. His journey, which includes guiding companies to go public and graduating from Dartmouth College, shows that with dedication and a willingness to take risks, you can build a successful career in tech and become your own boss. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Skills in product management and professional networks boost confidence when starting a business. Financial stability allows focus on the venture without immediate money worries. Early business exposure, through family or personal experiences, shapes future entrepreneurial paths. Balancing consulting work with main business projects maintains financial stability while growing the primary venture. An experimental approach helps identify effective content and strategies. Testing ideas and adapting based on feedback refine the business model. Establishing a strong online presence is crucial but challenging. Being active on professional networks increases visibility. A supportive community is vital for entrepreneurial success. Engaging with a network provides insights and opportunities. Understanding and responding to target audience needs is essential. This guides product development and keeps the business customer-focused. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Dexter Zhuang: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dexter-zhuang Dexter Zhuang: https://www.dexterzhuang.com/ Money Abroad: https://www.moneyabroad.co/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dexteryz/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Alex Chompff's career trajectory spans from military service to the epicenter of Silicon Valley's internet boom, culminating in his current role as a venture capital expert. Drawing from his experience as both a seasoned investor and a father of five, he emphasizes the critical nature of business partnerships. Alex asserts that selecting the right business partner is as consequential as choosing a life partner, underscoring the long-term impact of these professional relationships. During his tenure as Director of Technology at Kleiner Perkins amid the dot-com era, he witnessed firsthand the industry's volatility and innovation. His experiences offer invaluable insights into the period's groundbreaking initiatives, including the development of incubation centers and investments in pioneering companies that shaped the digital landscape. At Evolution Ventures, Alex is redefining the role of a regional accelerator. Under his guidance, the firm has evolved into a comprehensive support system for emerging businesses, providing mentorship, networking opportunities, and crucial financial backing. Notably, Evolution Ventures demonstrates a commitment to diversity through initiatives like the Minerva Fund, which focuses on empowering women entrepreneurs. For Alex, success transcends mere financial gains; it's about creating a positive societal impact. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Successful venture capital firms focus on providing more than just funding. Coaching, connections, and capital are key components of their support for startups. Prioritizing diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship and investing leads to a broader range of innovative ideas and perspectives, ultimately driving greater economic growth and social progress. For a venture to be successful, it must have strong unit economics and scalability. Business partnerships should be evaluated with the same care as lifelong personal relationships. Trust and alignment in values and goals are essential for long-term success. Historical market events offer valuable lessons on investment volatility and the importance of adaptability and resilience in changing environments. Support structures like incubators play a crucial role in nurturing startups, providing essential resources for innovation and growth in the early stages. Entrepreneurs should validate their market and product viability through low-cost experiments before seeking substantial funding. The path to becoming an investor or successful entrepreneur often involves overcoming mental barriers and recognizing one's unique value within the ecosystem. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Alex Chompff: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexchompff/ Evolution Acceleration: evolutionacceleration.com Minters Art: https://minters.art/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Have you ever considered starting your own podcast for your company or brand? Podbrandmedia.com can help. Affordable and effective in content creation and lead generation!…
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Lizzy Brooks is the visionary behind Virtually Brooks, a thriving virtual assistant agency that creates flexible job opportunities for American women. After transitioning from a corporate logistics career to entrepreneurship in 2018, Lizzy has grown her team to over 50 assistants, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic. Her agency is known for its professionalism, seamless communication, and commitment to working within the same time zones as clients, ensuring efficiency and personalized service. Lizzy's heartfelt passion for creating flexible work opportunities shines through in her strategic insights and intuitive business approach. She emphasizes the importance of time-tracking systems to maximize client value and maintain accountability. By focusing on the art of delegation, Lizzy has built a supportive environment that allows her clients to concentrate on their core business tasks. Tune in to Rising Tide Startups to hear Lizzy's inspiring journey. She shares how her blend of intuition, strategic planning, and dedication to uplifting women has made her a beloved and respected figure in the VA industry. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: By leveraging previous work experience, transitioning from a corporate job to running a virtual assistant (VA) agency can be a viable path. This shift is often driven by personal needs, such as the desire for a better work-life balance. Operating a VA agency within the same country and time zones as clients enhances communication, streamlines operations, and supports local employment. Growing a VA business from a solo operation to managing over 50 team members requires strategic planning, balancing client acquisition with team expansion, and relying on intuition and flexibility. The value of niching down: Niching down allows agencies to tailor pricing to industry standards. This approach enhances expertise, competitiveness, and client trust. Managing the balance between client acquisition and team capacity requires intuition and strategic planning. High service standards and stringent training procedures are essential for scaling a VA agency. Maintaining high standards and professionalism in the VA industry involves rigorous hiring processes, effective training programs, and adherence to industry standards. Sound financial management, including hiring a skilled CPA and a virtual CFO, and setting appropriate pricing models, is crucial for a profitable VA agency. Practical Advice for Solo VAs: Save for taxes, avoid unnecessary debt, and niche down in specific industries to scale effectively. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Lizzy Brooks: Virtual Brooks: www.virtuallybrooks.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/virtuallybrooks/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizzy-brooks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/virtuallybrooks Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsors: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024! Podbrand Media - How about having your own podcast for your brand or company. We do it all for you at a very affordable rate - https://podbrandmedia.com…
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1 8.11 – Jennifer Scholz – Virtual Assistant Expert 27:38
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What if you could enjoy the freedom to work from anywhere in the world with just a laptop and Wi-Fi? Jennifer Scholz's journey from a conventional office job to becoming an accomplished virtual assistant exemplifies this possibility. In this episode of the Rising Tide Start-Up Podcast, we explore how Jennifer turned her side project into a successful full-time business. Her experience highlights the growing popularity of remote work. It offers guidance for anyone wishing to break away from the 9-to-5 grind, sharing how she overcame concerns about the golden handcuffs, and health insurance and embraced her newfound freedom. Jennifer Scholz is an experienced virtual assistant with over two decades in administrative and executive assistant roles. Her journey into virtual assistance began as a side gig doing transcription work to supplement her income. Over time, Jennifer's services expanded to include social media, blogging, infographics, Executive-Level administrative duties, research, event planning, and Copywriting. The COVID-19 pandemic made remote work desirable and possible, and with the encouragement of her supportive boyfriend, Jennifer leaped full-time virtual assistance. She values autonomy, flexibility, and a healthy work-life balance, offering tailored services to diverse clients. Jennifer's story shows that a shift from traditional office roles to successful remote careers is possible. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Remote work offers autonomy, better work-life balance, control over your environment, client choice, and flexible schedules for a more satisfying career and life. Diversifying services helps maintain interest and profitability. However, ensuring consistent high-quality service across all offerings is crucial. Work with clients who share your values and work style. Sometimes, you might need to let go of difficult clients to maintain well-being and integrity. Pay fair wages to virtual assistants, reflecting the cost of living and professional value, to prevent underpricing. Overcome self-doubt by focusing on your unique value and charging fairly for your services. Consider the flexibility of freelancing versus the scale of an agency when planning growth. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Jennifer Scholz: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferscholz/ Wixsite: https://jstranscriptions.wixsite.com/jscholztranscription Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Can you build your dream home with virtual assistance? In this episode of Rising Tide Startups, Michael Tidwell joins us to share his journey. Join host Kevin Prewett as he explores how Michael Tidwell built his dream home, grew his family, and expanded his business empire—all with the help of virtual assistants. Michael's story and his decade-long partnership with a VA show how trust and clear communication can turn remote relationships into pillars of success. Michael Tidwell is a business owner who comes from a family of entrepreneurs. In 2012, he started his business with less than $500 in a competitive market, offering only one high-end product. He still owns that business today, utilizing VAs to help him create a lifestyle business. He is also a business broker with Nashville Business Brokers, where he helps business owners sell their businesses by using the same timeless principles he used to build his business. He was able to differentiate himself from his many competitors by offering stellar support and providing his clients with the expertise to make an informed purchase. He applies those same timeless principles and his marketing, research, and problem-solving skills when partnering with a business owner to sell their business. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Entrepreneurs should be clear about their motivation or 'why' to stay driven through challenges. A personal 'why' can provide the determination needed during the tough initial stages of business development. Trusting and delegating tasks to virtual assistants are key for business growth. This can also enhance the long-term success and scalability of businesses with remote teams. Using specialized firms for hiring virtual assistants can save time and resources. This approach allows for a targeted selection of virtual assistants who can meet specific business needs more efficiently. Avoiding 'shiny object syndrome' for serial entrepreneurs refers to staying focused on current projects and resisting the temptation to pursue new opportunities that can distract from established goals and lead to a lack of follow-through on existing ventures Setting clear expectations and closely monitoring work are crucial lessons. More involvement and clearer goal-setting for virtual assistants can lead to better results. Hiring a virtual assistant with the right skill set can significantly boost a business. The right virtual assistant can not only execute tasks but also offer valuable insights and improvements to the business. Beginners in using virtual assistants should start by outsourcing a single process and setting a clear budget. This method prevents overwhelm and allows for a gradual and effective integration of virtual assistants into the business. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Michael Tidwell: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-tidwell-953615162/ Nashville Business Broker: https://nashbb.com/ Pinson Group Business Advisors: https://pinsongroupintl.com/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Rising Tide Startups

Imagine the freedom of detaching from the day-to-day grind of your business. Many small business owners fantasize about the freedom to explore the world while their business flourishes—Scott Cox has made this dream his reality. In this episode, Scott shares his journey from being hands-on in his business to become a global digital nomad. He reveals how small changes in routine and environment can spark creativity and make lifestyle freedom possible. Scott’s story is a testament to how entrepreneurship can harmoniously blend with nomadic life, bringing joy and success. Scott Cox, an entrepreneur and consultant, helps small business owners craft fulfilling lives by drawing on his successful shift from hands-on management to remote entrepreneurship. Through his consultancy, STX Consulting, he specializes in developing strong systems and processes that enhance remote work efficiency. Scott’s expertise extends to hiring and managing remote teams and optimizing business operations and marketing strategies. Scott also shared the transformations accompanying such a lifestyle shift, discussing how embracing change can lead to greater personal and professional growth. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Implementing solid systems, processes, and SOPs are essential for managing remote teams, and facilitating smooth operations during the transition from traditional office work to remote environments. Combining human talent with AI, including virtual assistants, revolutionizes business efficiency and innovation, empowering small businesses to compete at higher levels. Mentorship and guidance are crucial in successfully scaling a business as they provide direction and encouragement to navigate challenges, leverage experiences beyond one's own, and implement effective strategies for growth. Virtual assistants and outsourced talent significantly reduce costs and manage tasks, enabling business owners to prioritize core objectives and strategic growth. Hiring individuals who surpass your expertise can create exponential business growth by fostering an environment of empowerment, fresh ideas, and innovation. Consistent marketing and sales efforts stabilize revenue streams and sustain small businesses through cyclical income patterns. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Scott: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottacox/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/n0madtalk/ Facebook: https://web.facebook.com/n0madtalk?_rdc=1&_rdr STX Consulting: https://www.stxconsulting.co/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Rising Tide Startups

Ever wondered what it takes to pivot from the dream of a sports career to making a global impact as an entrepreneur? Let us introduce you to International Business Consultant Steve Collins, who's transcended borders and boundaries to revolutionize startups and leadership training. Explore Steve's journey from corporate newcomer to international leader, along the way emphasizing passion and strategic alignment for success. We discuss the critical role of leadership in team building, offer insights from industry titans like Sam Walton, and share personal anecdotes. Tune in for practical advice on servant leadership, mentorship, and the broader impact of purpose-driven organizations. Steve Collins, a seasoned global leader and business developer, brings diverse expertise to his current role as Global Training Director for LEAD International. With an MBA from Wake Forest University, he honed his skills during eight years in China and a fifteen-year tenure in the Middle East, holding pivotal roles in organizations like International Business Associates (IBA) and as President and COO of LEAD International. Steve's journey underscores his commitment to nurturing the next generation of leaders, emphasizing collaboration and strategic team composition rooted in servant leadership principles. His teachings, influenced by his cross-cultural experiences and basketball background, resonate in entrepreneurial circles, emphasizing the significance of shared vision and effective team selection for business success. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Leadership is key to entrepreneurial success and essential for guiding teams through the unpredictable world of entrepreneurship and making a lasting impact. Resilience, teamwork, and purpose-driven ventures form the foundation of successful entrepreneurship, guiding leaders and businesses through challenges, fostering unity, and driving meaningful impact. Effective leadership requires both character and skill, essential for gaining respect and achieving results. The character embodies moral values like integrity and honesty, while skill encompasses competencies such as decision-making and communication. Selecting the right team is vital for entrepreneurial success. It involves more than just skills; it requires alignment with the company's vision, complementary abilities, ownership, resilience, cultural fit, and contributions to long-term growth and stability. Entrepreneurs should perceive failures not as defeats, but as pivots or valuable learning experiences. Recognizing setbacks as integral to the journey fosters resilience, focus, and perseverance, guiding them toward growth and success. Servant leadership prioritizes team growth and trust, supported by mentorship for personal and professional development. This fosters a culture of service and growth, enhancing engagement, morale, and productivity in teams and organizations. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Steve Collins: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steve-collins-6a313629/ LEAD International: https://lead-international.com/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Rising Tide Startups

1 8.07 – Jaime Jay – Bottleneck Distant Assistants 35:02
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Reclaim your time with Jaime Jay, the pioneering mind behind Bottleneck Virtual Assistants, as he shares his journey from U.S. Army paratrooper to entrepreneur extraordinaire, navigating the transition from the rigid structures of corporate America to the creative realm of virtual assistance. We're excited to welcome Jaime Jay back for his third appearance on Rising Tide Startups, and is labelled by our host as the internet's embodiment of kindness. His story is a testament to the transformative power of passion for processes, culminating in the creation of the world's first dedicated Distant Assistant company, reshaping our understanding of work-life balance. Jaime Jay – a man who wears many hats, and wears them all admirably. He's the founder of the renowned Bottleneck Distant Assistant Services firm, and his book "Quit Repeating Yourself" has become a must-read for founders in this space. When he's not busy building his empire, you can find him on his beloved Harley Davidson, cruising through the countryside and taking in the invigorating effects of Uitwaaien – a Dutch practice that involves facing the wind to boost health and relieve stress. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Offering a subscription-based service model diverges from traditional contracts while fostering trust and satisfaction with flexible terms that allow clients to leave at any time and potentially receive refunds for unused services. The meticulous vetting process guarantees top-tier service from highly skilled distant assistants, fostering high retention rates by hiring only the top 5% of applicants. Structured workflow management and proper delegation techniques contribute to a 100% client retention rate, showcasing the effectiveness of delegation roadmaps in the virtual assistant industry. Integrating artificial intelligence to enhance its services places significant importance on maintaining a positive and respectful workplace culture. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Jaime: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimejay/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heyjaimejay/ Bottleneck Distant Assistants: https://bottleneck.online/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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In this episode of The Rising Tide Startups, we chat with Taylor Black, a dynamic entrepreneur whose roots trace back to high school ventures and now extend into the innovative ecosystem of Microsoft's venture studio. Taylor's narrative is woven from his formative years launching a B2B SaaS enterprise during his legal studies, to his strategic role in shepherding early-stage companies towards market success such as Conduit Venture Labs and Fizzy Ventures. Whether he's sharing the nuts and bolts of product development or recounting the strategic pivot of Altis.io, an AI platform, Taylor's story is a masterclass in business acumen and adaptability. Taylor Black is a Seattle-based entrepreneur and intrapreneur with an impressive tech industry track record. He currently works in Microsoft's internal Venture Studio. He also mentors startups through Fizzy Ventures, and founded Altis.io, an AI platform designed to support user researchers. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The Intrapreneurial Edge is the use of entrepreneurial skills to promote change, new initiatives, and innovation within a corporation. Venture Capital and Angel Investing Insights are essential for entrepreneurs and startups to understand the workings of financing startups and fast-growing businesses by providing knowledge on investment mechanics, capital accessibility, networking prospects, market validation, and risk mitigation strategies. Angel investing is no longer just for the wealthy. Sweat equity and Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs) allow smaller investors to participate. Online platforms and crowdfunding democratize venture capital and broaden access to investment opportunities. This fosters a more inclusive investment landscape. Three things serve as critical factors in assessing a startup's potential: The Team: Passionate and committed individuals who strongly desire to put energy into their venture. The Problem: A deep understanding of a significant, meaty problem that the team is in love with, rather than being fascinated with their solution. The Solution: The team must have the capability to build a viable solution to the problem they've identified. They should have a conceptual understanding and practical know-how or a clear path to developing a solution that addresses the problem effectively. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Taylor: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/blacktaylor/ Altis.io: https://www.altis.io/ Conduit Venture Labs: https://www.conduitventurelabs.com/ Fizzy Ventures: https://fizzy.ventures/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Rising Tide Startups

Ever feel caught in a race against time as work consumes every precious moment? Mike Abramowitz, a seasoned expert in time management for high-earners, joins our host, Kevin Prewett in this episode of The Rising Tide Startups to address this struggle, unveiling strategies honed through personal experiences. From humble beginnings at Cutco to enduring financial setbacks post-college, Mike's narrative is one of resilience and transformation. Mike Abramowitz is a #1 Amazon bestselling author, impactful philanthropist achieving six figures in earnings, and a partner with "Better Than Rich." Mike's passion lies in uplifting others, guiding entrepreneurs to maximize efficiency, and embracing purpose-driven business through programs like 'Operator to Owner.' Co-host of "The Better Than Rich Show" podcast, he imparts valuable business insights, encouraging listeners to make a positive impact. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The "Time Rich Six" strategy helps leaders prioritize high-impact tasks through practical advice on boundaries, communication, systems, playbooks, team management, and technology for ultimate time freedom. Establishing Boundaries: This involves setting specific limitations on time and availability, enabling individuals to prioritize their work and minimize disruptions Communication Guidelines: Implementing rules or systems for communication can streamline interactions, ensuring concise messages are exchanged at appropriate times. Creating Systems: setting defined processes to help automate or make business operations more efficient, reducing the need for constant hands-on management. Developing Playbooks: Playbooks are standardized procedures that provide a reference for tasks Team Management: This involves strategies for effectively leading and organizing a team for independent work, contributing to overall time efficiency Utilizing Technology: Emphasizing technology, including AI, to automate tasks, manage schedules, and facilitate operations, helping to free up time that can be invested in more valuable activities. The four pillars of business are as follows: Attraction involves attracting potential customers to a business by increasing awareness of its offerings and highlighting its superiority. Conversion involves transforming potential customers into actual customers by persuading them to take a desired action. Onboarding involves introducing new customers to a business's offerings and ensuring they feel valued. Retention involves fostering long-term customer relationships by providing value, great service, and meeting expectations. Strategies include loyalty programs, communication, personalized offers, and product/service improvements. Time management is a skill that can be mastered, and with the right guidance, anyone can craft a life of intention and efficiency. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Mike: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikeabramowitz1/ Better than Rich: https://www.betterthanrich.com/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube, or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Check out https://naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Join us on Rising Tide Startups as we welcome Brittany Brewer, Senior Account Executive at FreeUp Marketplace, for a candid discussion about her transition from a freelancer to a pivotal role in a freelancer hiring platform. Brittany shares her unique perspective on navigating the complexities of matching clients with top-tier freelancers to ensure businesses overcome their challenges through strategic hiring. She also shares FreeUp's unique approach to building a global community of virtual service providers. They explore the balance between integrity and autonomy, where freelancers set fair rates and clients find scalable solutions. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: FreeUp Marketplace is a curated community that simplifies the process of hiring freelancers. It connects clients with freelancers and agencies from diverse industries. Quality Over Quantity: FreeUp is a platform that accepts only the top 1% of freelancers through a rigorous vetting process. Unlike larger platforms like Upwork and Fiverr, FreeUp emphasizes quality over quantity. They foster a higher caliber of talent and a community-focused approach that values freelancers, aiming to create a more personalized, concierge-like service for clients. Pricing Practices and Scalability: A Balanced Approach: the approach is centered on transparency, fairness, and flexibility for both freelancers and clients. How to handle the Pricing aspects: Freelancer Autonomy: FreeUp freelancers set their own rates based on their skills, experience, and market demand. Pricing Guidance: FreeUp provides estimated pricing for different skill sets on their pricing page, helping freelancers align their rates with the platform's expectations and clients' budgets. Client Budget Preferences: Clients can set their budgets for job requests. FreeUp matches them with freelancers at that rate. Entry-Level to Expert-Level Services: The platform offers entry-level and expert-level services for freelancers, allowing clients to choose based on task complexity and budget constraints Flat Fee Structure: FreeUp maintains a straightforward fee structure, charging a flat 20% fee with a $2 minimum per payment to freelancers. This means if a job is priced at $10 an hour, $2 goes to FreeUp, and $8 goes to the freelancer. How to handle the Scaling aspects: Process Organization: Organizing and documenting processes helps scale with freelancers, as it ensures they understand tasks and work efficiently. Emphasizing Human Relationships: FreeUp assists clients in scaling by nurturing human connections and forming strong partnerships. Long-term freelancer relationships lead to growth opportunities. Use of International Talent: FreeUp enables businesses to scale using international talent, providing access to a wide range of skills and efficient cost management. Community-Focused Approach: FreeUp fosters a community that respects freelancers, attracting high-caliber talent that supports scalable client services. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Brittany: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brittany-brewer-256a89229/ FreeUp: https://freeup.net/ Please leave us an honest rating on Spotify, YouTube or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Email info@naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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When you meet someone like Chris McShanag, you can't help but feel energized by the passion they bring to their work. In this latest episode of the Rising Tide Startups, our host, Kevin Prewett, had the pleasure of chatting with this virtual assistant industry trailblazer, whose story of transitioning from the asset-intensive sector to launching MedVA, BizVA, and OrthoVA is as inspiring as it is informative. These services are not just addressing staffing issues and refocusing professionals on their core activities but truly revolutionizing how healthcare providers and entrepreneurs tackle their workload. Chris McShanag is a transformational leader who brings extensive experience in delivering successful business solutions through innovative and scalable solutions. As a natural entrepreneur, Chris has led numerous organizations, ranging from startups to established enterprises, across diverse industries such as healthcare, mining, utilities, and consulting, consistently steering them toward success. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The keys to business growth are client retention and value creation. High client retention indicates satisfied and loyal customers, which are crucial for stable revenue streams and forecasting growth. The agency offers high-quality services that bring tangible benefits, such as saving businesses up to $80,000 annually in staffing costs and increasing productivity by 40% with virtual assistants. The "most important number and decision" concept helps businesses to identify a crucial metric that guides decision-making and aligns the efforts of different departments towards the company's goals. Virtual assistance is not just a trend; it's a strategic tool that is shaping the future of business efficiency and operations across industries The operational framework of virtual assistant agencies includes the following elements: Billing Practices: Agencies typically charge their services on a retainer or hourly basis. The exact billing method can vary depending on the agency's structure and the client's needs. Earnings Distribution: Agencies manage how earnings are distributed, which includes paying virtual assistants (VAs) and covering operational costs. Recruitment and Training: Agencies are responsible for recruiting, training, and providing ongoing support to VAs. This ensures a high retention rate and consistent service quality for clients. Managed Services: Agencies maintain relationships with clients through managed services, which may include flat-rate billing, onboarding processes, and productivity reporting to ensure clients are receiving the value they expect. Client and VA Relationship: Agencies take steps to protect their interests, preventing clients from directly hiring VAs away from the agency. This can involve offering benefits to VAs and providing seamless service replacements to maintain a reliable service to clients. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Chris: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-d-mcshanag-10aa362/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/chris.mcshanag BizVA: https://www.bizva.ph MedVA: https://www.medva.com If you enjoyed the show, follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating on Spotify, Youtube or Apple Podcasts. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Email info@naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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1 8.02 – Gina Cotner – Athena Executive Services 29:38
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Imagine having a strategic partner working remotely yet closely with you, handling complex tasks that go beyond the traditional virtual assistant's to-do list. That's the reality Gina's company, Athena Executive Services, offers to swamped business owners. In the latest episode of Rising Tide Startups podcast, we interview Gina Cotner, the founder and CEO of Athena. Gina is a driven individual who is passionate about helping others live lives of their own design. She firmly believes that many people go through life feeling like they just have to survive, without realizing that they can design their lives the way they want. With this passion in mind, she founded Athena Executive Services in 2016. Athena pairs high-caliber, virtual Executive Assistants around the United States with successful business owners, entrepreneurs, and executives. Through her work, Gina helps her clients achieve their goals and live their lives to their fullest potential. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: The Power of Virtual Partnership: Athena was born to provide high-caliber assistance for busy executives, capable of managing complex tasks remotely, similar to the support a high-level executive assistant would provide in a corporate setting. Unique Approach to Executive Support: Athena stands out by pairing executive assistants with performance coaches, providing not only administrative support but also a deep understanding of business strategies. Executive Assistants vs. Virtual Assistants: VAs work remotely; EAs bring business expertise and professionalism. They're indispensable partners who drive business growth. Lessons in Business Leadership: The following are the wisdom acquired by Athena over the years: Importance of tracking conversion rates and the surprising benefits of meticulous data analysis. Letting go of clients who are not fully utilizing services Gina also reflects on the influence of Robert Kiyosaki's "Cash Flow Quadrant" on her entrepreneurial strategy, highlighting the balance of trust with verification as a guiding principle. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Connect with Gina: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/athenaea Athena: https://athenaexecutiveservices.com If you enjoyed the show, follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Email info@naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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1 8.01 – Czarina Lei Pineda and Kevin Prewett – Naviqus.com Launch! 14:00
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Join us as we kick off the new year with a very special conversation on Rising Tide Startups, featuring the Czarina Lei Pineda. In this episode, Czarina (or Cha as her friends call her) shares her journey working as a virtual assistant and the unexpected turns that led to her collaborating with our host, Kevin Prewett, in enhancing the workflow of this great podcast. Cha's impact on the show includes streamlining the processes which in turn gave rise to the launch of a virtual services agency collaboration, called Naviqus. Listen in as Cha recounts the rewarding experience of being part of Rising Tide family and how it has developed into partnerships and mentoring, driving both her personal and professional growth. Here are the key takeaways from the conversation: Naviqus represents a paradigm shift in the virtual assistance industry, focusing on fair wages and exceptional talent. The agency's mission is to match businesses with top-notch virtual specialists, ensuring that both parties benefit, creating a “Win-Win!. This approach not only enhances the service quality for the client, but also enhances and augments the work of highly-gifted virtual assistants by providing them great compensation and status within the network. Services Offered, to name a few, include: administrative support, social media management, email marketing, SEO, web design, and podcast editing, among others. In summary, Naviqus is committed to quality, affordability, and ethical business practices while fostering sustainable partnerships between virtual specialists and global clients. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Check out Naviqus: Website: https://naviqus.com Email: info@naviqus.com If you enjoyed the show, follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating. Shoutout to our Great Sponsor: Naviqus Virtual Services - Hassle-free administrative support services that are efficient, affordable, and tailored to your needs. Contact Naviqus at info@naviqus.com now to jumpstart your business for 2024!…
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Welcome to another episode of The Rising Tide Startups, hosted by Kevin Prewett. In this episode, join us as we feature Shawn Lemon's journey. Shawn, a seasoned consultant, has seamlessly transitioned and became a pioneering Digital Organizer From his roots at the Genius Bar, Shawn ventured into entrepreneurship, launching Digital Organizer. Shawn shares his personal and professional triumphs, sharing insights on simplifying digital complexities, streamlining emails, and reclaiming over 15 hours weekly for fulfilling pursuits. With a unique blend of tech expertise, a passion for growth, and a distinct perspective, Shawn Lemon adeptly navigates individuals and businesses through the digital landscape. Here are the key takeaways: Digital Organizer helps businesses organize their digital files, data, and information to enable more efficient management of data, emails, files, and tech stacks. Embracing Digital Organization: Digital organization is crucial for modern enterprises as it affects productivity and employee well-being. Pricing and Services: Pricing services require balancing value and market expectations. Efficiency in core services leads to a sustainable business model. Whether it's organizing a large collection of unsorted photos or streamlining your business's technology stack, taking control of your digital world can help you save time and be more productive. Remember that the key to success in the digital age is not just about organizing—it's about optimizing. Listen to the full conversation here: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@risingtidestartups Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/rising-tide-startups/id1330525474 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2eq7unl70TRPsBhjLEsNZR Catch up with Shawn Lemon here: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shawnlemon The Digital Organizer: https://thedigitalorganizer.com If you enjoyed the show, follow, subscribe and please leave us a 5-star rating. Your company or brand needs its own branded podcast. PodBrand Media is an innovative and affordable way to generate new leads and create repurposable content. Learn more at https://Podbrandmedia.com Get your personal podcast off the ground with "How to Start a Podcast in 24 Hours" course by David Ezell. Learn podcasting essentials and save 20% by using the code RISING at realdavidezell.com/courses. Don't wait, start your podcast today.…
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