Interview
1081: Nearbound: Expertise to Influence Through LinkedIn Personal Branding and Social Selling with NearPoint Strategies Founder Natasha Walstra
LinkedIn is your new best friend when it comes to professional growth and shaping your image. It's like a vibrant gathering spot where you can flaunt your skills, make meaningful connections with other professionals, and discover exciting new opportunities. Think of it as more than just an online resume - it's a platform for interactions that could be the game-changer in your career; you never know when a potential employer might stumble upon your profile and be impressed by your achievements.
Natasha Walstra is the founder and CEO of NearPoint Strategies. She is an expert in personal branding and social selling strategy and helps entrepreneurs and sales professionals increase revenue through LinkedIn, personal branding, and social selling strategy. Today, Natasha shares her insights on the importance of personal branding in the modern business landscape, emphasizing the need for professionals to establish a strong online presence and leverage platforms like LinkedIn to differentiate themselves, build relationships, and drive business growth.
Quotes
“The future of business is near-bound, actually bringing it back to how it used to be by moving away from some of the automation, the robots, and the chatbots. It’s about human-to-human conversations and focusing on relationships.” – Natasha Walstra
“You want to be asking yourself, ‘Am I being productive, or just active?’ while spending time on LinkedIn. If you're just being active and scrolling, you’re not going to get anything out of it.” – Natasha Walstra
“Content doesn’t get you conversations; conversations get you content.”– Natasha Walstra
Takeaways
00:10 Personal branding is no longer optional - it is essential for business growth and visibility as a leader.
10:58 Leveraging LinkedIn effectively requires intentional, productive activity, not just mindless scrolling.
13:49 Aligning your personal branding efforts with your overall business goals is crucial.
16:50 Building genuine relationships through conversations, not just automated pitches, is the key to successful social selling on LinkedIn.
28:35 Content creation should be informed by real client conversations and pain points, not just produced in a vacuum.
Resources
- NearPoint Strategies: High-Integrity Social Selling on LinkedIn for Business Owners and Sales Teams Website
- Natasha Walstra on LinkedIn
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1080: Leading with Emotional Intelligence: Strategies for Organizational Wellness with Founder of Sixth Gear Consulting Dr. Anthony Simmons
Are you frustrated by the lack of engagement in your workplace? Feeling like leadership is lacking direction and inspiration? Many organizations struggle with disconnected cultures, unclear strategies, and unfulfilled employees. But it doesn't have to be this way. There are frameworks you can follow for building high-trust, high-performing teams. By developing self-awareness, empowering individuals, and unlocking their potential, you can transform your organization toward success.
Dr. Anthony Simmons is the President and Founder of Sixth Gear Consulting and the author of the book, “Championing Organization Wellness.” He is also a retired Navy captain with an impressive 28-year career as a surface warfare officer. Nowadays, Dr. Simmons focuses on connecting people, building trust in the workplace, and sharing his expertise on human resource strategies, emotional intelligence, and his unique approach to inspiring and empowering individuals. Today, Dr. Simmons discusses his passion for helping organizations appreciate and connect their people through his "Champion of Organizational Wellness" model. He emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, cultural understanding, and continuous learning to overcome challenges and create high-performing teams.
Quotes
“Responsibility, accountability, loyalty, and trust are key. It's just as important for you to trust me as it is for me to trust you.” – Dr. Anthony Simmons
“The art of success is human; the science of success is technology.” – Dr. Anthony Simmons
“No matter how much superficial stuff you add, it won't help if you magnify what you don't like. You have to love yourself.”– Dr. Anthony Simmons
Takeaways
00:57 Developing self-awareness and emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership and building trust in organizations.
04:28 Continuous learning, coaching, and empowering individuals are essential for sustainable organizational wellness.
06:13 Navigating cultural differences and meeting people halfway is key to connecting and inspiring teams.
17:04 Integrating people skills and technology is vital for achieving success in today's fast-paced, complex business environment.
21:43 Resilience, authenticity, and a focus on the bigger picture can help leaders overcome challenges and setbacks.
Resources
- Sixth Gear Consulting: Coaching Leaders on SERVANTSHIP!
- Dr. Anthony Simmons on LinkedIn
- Championing Organization Wellness by Dr. Anthony Simmons on Amazon
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1079: Unpack the Sexy Future of Warehousing with Founder and Host of The Warehouse Podcast Kevin Lawton
Curious about how technology will revolutionize warehousing in the future? With innovations such as automation, robotics, and advanced analytics, warehouses are becoming more efficient and adaptable than ever before. Embracing these advancements promises to streamline operations, increase productivity, and meet the growing demands of modern logistics. That’s why our guest believes that Warehouses are Sexy!
Kevin Lawton is a passionate advocate for the warehouse industry. As the founder and host of The New Warehouse podcast for over 5 years, he creates awareness of the latest innovations in warehousing technology, automation, and logistics. Today, Kevin talks about the latest innovations and technologies transforming warehouses, including automation, AI, robotics, data analytics, and how these advancements have enabled next-day delivery and complex logistics operations.
Quotes
“We've come a long way within the industry. There's so much technology involved.” – Kevin Lawton
“Creating a workplace where employees feel valued, invested in, and supported in their productivity can foster a win-win scenario for attracting and retaining staff.” – Kevin Lawton
“Be curious and don't be afraid to ask why.”– Kevin Lawton
Takeaways
01:50 Warehouses have undergone a technological revolution, with advancements in automation, AI, robotics, and data analytics enabling complex logistics and fast delivery.
09:23 Retaining warehouse workers is a significant challenge, requiring companies to create engaging work environments, invest in employee development, and leverage technology to make jobs easier.
22:26 Podcasting can be an effective way to share industry knowledge, build relationships, and uncover unique insights.
30:21 Innovative solutions like micro-fulfillment centers are emerging, leveraging smaller urban spaces and predictive analytics to enable same-day and two-hour delivery.
39:52 Maintaining curiosity and a willingness to ask "why" can lead to increased knowledge and education, helping professionals in any industry stay ahead of the curve.
Resources
- The New Warehouse: Your source for insights and ideas from the distribution, transportation and logistics industry.
- Support the Warehouses Are Sexy Podcast by purchasing their exclusive merchandise!
- Kevin Lawton on LinkedIn
- Kevin Lawton on Facebook
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1078: Stress Mastery for Peak Performance with Founder of Paradigms & Perspectives Media Joe A. Simmons
Ever wondered if reducing stress could be the key to unlocking your path to success? Reducing stress is not just about feeling better; it's about unlocking your pathway to success. Managing stress effectively can help boost productivity, enhance focus, and achieve your goals with greater ease. Embracing stress reduction techniques empowers you to navigate challenges confidently and create a more fulfilling life.
Joe A. Simmons is a creative producer, scriptwriter, and podcast host for Paradigms & Perspectives Media. He is also the author of the book “MAD Money.” Joe helps busy professionals achieve more success with less stress. With over 20 years of experience, he has developed a unique framework to help individuals overcome stress and fulfill their goals. Today, Joe identifies common reasons goals go unfulfilled such as entitlement, impatience, and stress, and emphasizes the importance of competency over compensation through developing specialized knowledge and skills.
Quotes
“Competency comes before compensation.” – Joe A. Simmons
“People are rewarded in public for what they practice in private.” – Joe A. Simmons
“Business is just solving problems, wants or needs for profit.”– Joe A. Simmons
Takeaways
02:41 Competency comes before compensation. Developing specialized knowledge and skills is key to achieving success and higher earnings.
16:56 Effective communication requires clarity, building rapport, and active listening - not just verbal delivery.
18:29 Branding is about establishing your values and identity, which then enables more effective marketing and networking.
25:04 Relationships and reciprocity are essential in business - solving problems and meeting needs for mutual benefit.
32:57 Practicing discipline and hard work in private will lead to being rewarded in public.
Resources
- MAD Money: 12 Foundational Principles To Make More Money In Half The Time With Half The Stress by Joe A. Simmons on Amazon
- Paradigms & Perspectives Podcast on Spotify
- Joe A. Simmons on LinkedIn
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1077: Pain to Purpose and Your Destiny with Real Estate Agent, Published Author, Speaker, Actress and Film Producer Danielle Forbes
Maybe you're still learning the ropes of marketing or struggling to find time to pursue your passions amidst life's demands. Remember, it's okay to learn as you go, and it's okay to ask for help. Think about your challenges. Are they really roadblocks or just detours? It's about having faith in your abilities and perseverance in the face of adversity.
Danielle Forbes, a Real Estate Agent, Published Author, Speaker, Actress, and Film Producer. With a focus on pursuing her passions despite obstacles, she embodies resilience and determination. Today, Danielle discusses her journey as an author and filmmaker, the challenges she faced in funding and marketing her projects, her strategies for overcoming obstacles, and much more, so stay tuned!
Quotes
“I faced many forms of adversity, but none of them stopped me from being all that God has created me to be.” – Danielle Forbes
“Waking up is half the battle. It's God giving you another opportunity to step into your purpose and His perfect will for your life. Having breath in my body is what makes me tick and keeps me going.” – Danielle Forbes
“Your Creator has placed a greater purpose in us. Whether you're doing it or thinking about it, go for it. Go forth. Don't be afraid. Be afraid to dream small, not big.”– Danielle Forbes
Takeaways
01:17 Pursuing multiple passions and dreams simultaneously is possible with faith, flexibility, and perseverance.
09:38 Turning a book into a successful film adaptation requires networking, securing the right funding and distribution, and a willingness to adapt to challenges.
16:25 Maintaining a positive, faith-driven mindset can help overcome adversity and empower individuals to achieve their full potential.
19:04 Effective marketing and promotion are crucial for the success of creative projects, and it's an ongoing process that requires research, expert assistance, and a strategic approach.
26:03 Continuously building upon initial successes, such as a book or film, by creating sequels, spin-offs, and related content can help sustain and grow an audience.
Resources
- Danielle Forbes on Facebook
- Danielle Forbes on LinkedIn
- Destiny: A Love Story Gone Terribly Wrong by Danielle Forbes on Amazon
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1076: G2A Gaming E-Commerce Platform: Marketing Strategies for Digital Marketplaces with CMO Mona Kinal
An expert in brand strategy, brand management and 360 degree marketing communication, Mona Kinal has over 20 years of experience working for international and local companies in Poland and abroad, including as Head of Communications Emerging Markets at Viacom across over 110 markets in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, India and Russia, and as Head of Communications Central Europe at Discovery Networks Europe and Head of Consumer Communications Central and Eastern Europe at the international agency MMD Public Relations.
Before G2A, Mona has been associated with the retail industry and leaders of omnichannel sales globally – first as CMO of 4F, 4F Junior and 4Faces in OTCF SA sports company, then as CMO in the Polish Kazar Group as well as CMO and Executive Team Member at the Empik Group. Currently CMO at G2A.COM - the world's largest global marketplace for digital entertainment in the form of games, gift cards and software.
Quotes
“We act as both the explorer and the caregiver simultaneously, which makes us a very secure and credible presence.” – Mona Kinal
“Content is king. We want to engage, build a community, listen to people, and basically give them what they need.” – Mona Kinal
“Our mission is to make our customers happy, and they can only be happy through experience. So, come to our platform, try our application, and see for yourself.”– Mona Kinal
Takeaways
02:38 Developing a well-defined brand strategy and positioning is crucial for standing out in a competitive market.
03:17 Fostering a customer-centric mindset and making it easy for users to experience the platform should be a fundamental aspect of any company’s approach.
05:36 Utilizing a diverse range of communication channels, both traditional and non-standard, is essential for reaching and engaging with a variety of target audiences.
10:50 Addressing security and fraud prevention is a top priority for digital businesses.
12:17 Continuously investing in both short-term and long-term marketing initiatives is necessary to drive immediate sales and build lasting brand awareness.
Resources
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1075: Mastering Emotional Intelligence with President and CEO of Indispensable Leadership Group Darby Vannier
You know how some people just have a knack for understanding others? That’s emotional intelligence in action! It’s like a secret sauce for leaders, helping them really get their team. When leaders are in tune with their own feelings, they can build trust, resilience, and motivation in their team. It’s all about creating a positive vibe at work and leading with empathy and clear-headedness when things get tough.
Darby Vannier, President and CEO of Indispensable Leadership Group, is a seasoned leader with over two decades of expertise in organizational growth. With a focus on blending managerial efficiency with visionary inspiration, he offers invaluable insights into effective leadership and the indispensable role of emotional intelligence. Today, Darby discusses the importance of effective leadership, emphasizing the role of emotional intelligence, the distinction between managers and visionary leaders, and much more.
Quotes
“If I can build a great team, everything else kind of takes care of itself.” – Darby Vannier
“You can't always teach cultural fit, and inevitably that's where the problems come in.” – Darby Vannier
“The most successful companies are those who are getting people who are willing to think for themselves and engage.”– Darby Vannier
Takeaways
02:53 Hiring the right people with the proper cultural fit is crucial for building a successful team, as skills can be taught but cultural alignment is more difficult to develop.
05:24 Effective leadership requires finding the right balance between managerial and visionary traits, avoiding being too focused on checking boxes or generating ideas without a clear purpose.
17:34 Small moments of leadership can have a lasting impact on individuals, and leaders should be mindful of the emotional consequences of their actions.
19:21 When mistakes happen, the priority should be on finding a solution to prevent the same issue from recurring, rather than solely focusing on who made the error.
28:01 Making the right decision, even if it's the harder choice, is more important than taking the easy path that may only provide short-term benefits.
Resources
- Indispensable Leadership Group: Helping leaders scale companies by making the right decisions, not just the easy decisions.
- Indispensable Leadership Group on Facebook
- Darby Vannier on LinkedIn
- The Indispensable Leader: How to Use Your Inner Manager and Visionary to Achieve Leadership Success by Darby Vannier on Amazon
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1074: Marketing Mastery for Authors with President & CEO of Elite Online Publishing Jenn Foster
Understanding the world of publishing is vital for authors and industry professionals alike. With the rise of digital platforms and self-publishing options, traditional publishing models are evolving rapidly. Navigating these shifts requires adaptability, innovation, and a keen awareness of emerging trends in the publishing industry.
Jenn Foster is a 16-time bestselling author and marketing expert who co-founded Elite Online Publishing. She understands the changing world of publishing and helps authors avoid mistakes. Jenn focuses on clear goals and effective marketing, especially using digital tools. With her help, authors can navigate the competitive world of publishing and achieve their goals. Today, Jenn shares her insights on the common pitfalls authors face when self-publishing and the steps they can take to ensure their book's success, including building a launch team, leveraging social media, and utilizing a proven system for book promotion.
Resources
- Elite Online Publishing: Authority in Every Word
- Jenn Foster: 16-Time Bestselling Author, Marketing and Publishing Expert
- Jenn Foster on Facebook
- Jenn Foster on LinkedIn
- Elite Online Publishing Strategic Writing System by Jenn Foster on Amazon
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1073: Intentionally Inconvenient: Protect Your Digital Security & Cyber Safety with Privacy Expert Tim Jensen
Are you tired of feeling vulnerable to online threats? Do you ever wonder who might lurk in your digital life's shadows, waiting to steal your personal information? With how the world is going full in the online world, numerous opportunities arise. But at the same time, the risks and dangers of your information online become more vulnerable to cyber-attacks or being hacked. As such, safeguarding your accounts is a must. Changing your passwords and username to be unique and strong for each account is the start. Make it inconvenient for you and for others, reclaim your digital safety, and protect what matters most—your privacy.
Tim Jensen is the host of the "Intentionally Inconvenient" podcast, where he shares his personal experiences with identity theft, hacked websites, and stolen social media accounts. Through his podcast, Tim aims to educate listeners on practical ways to improve their privacy and cybersecurity, emphasizing the importance of controlling access to one's personal information, intellectual property, and physical space. Today, Tim discusses his journey into the world of privacy and cybersecurity, highlighting the need for individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves from the growing threats of data breaches and social engineering attacks.
Quotes
“Privacy begins with you, and nobody is more interested in your privacy than you are.” – Tim Jensen
“Free is what got us into this mess. We have free email, free calendars, free GPS—free got us into this situation.” – Tim Jensen
“If you don't work on your privacy, don't expect anybody else to do it.”– Tim Jensen
Takeaways
07:39 Convenience often comes at the expense of privacy, and being "intentionally inconvenient" can make it more difficult for hackers to access your personal information.
10:27 Changing your email password and using a password manager with unique, strong passwords for each account are crucial first steps in improving personal privacy and security.
18:04 Decentralizing and compartmentalizing your online services and accounts can help reduce the risk of data breaches and limit the amount of personal information any one company or entity has access to.
27:00 Awareness of social engineering and phishing tactics, as well as developing a "BS detector," is essential in protecting against cybersecurity threats that rely on human behavior rather than just technology.
33:03 Privacy is an ongoing journey, not a final destination, and taking small, incremental steps to improve it daily can make a significant difference in the long run.
Resources
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1072: Boost Team Efficiency: Clear Communication Secrets with Communication Expert Chris Fenning
Are you tired of messages getting lost at work? Ever struggled to explain things clearly to your team? Or did you feel stuck getting your point across to higher-ups? Clear communication is critical in a successful business. Having a team that clearly conveys their ideas can make the work more accurate and faster. Using the right strategy and utilizing the power of effective communication will indeed transform your business!
Chris Fenning is a communication expert who helps experts communicate with non-experts, teams talk to executives, and organizations like Google and NATO improve their communication. He is the author of multiple award-winning books on communication and training. Today, Chris discusses his strategies for becoming a successful podcast guest, including how it helps him reach new audiences, overcome imposter syndrome, and find the right shows to pitch. He also shares his experiences with both positive and challenging podcast interviews and provides advice for podcast hosts to better support their guests.
Quotes
“We are generally the worst judge of what our audience is going to find valuable.” – Chris Fenning
“If you want to do something, don't just talk about it. Get out and actually do it.” – Chris Fenning
“Starting a podcast is a great way to become known, but it can also be a slow way to build an audience.”– Chris Fenning
Takeaways
01:47 Becoming a recurring podcast guest is an effective way to reach new audiences and grow your reputation as an expert, rather than solely focusing on building your own content platform.
03:36 Overcoming imposter syndrome and starting small with lesser-known shows can help build the confidence and experience needed to pitch to larger podcasts over time.
04:04 Providing podcast hosts with personalized video introductions, pre-prepared materials, and being a responsive, prepared guest can help build valuable relationships.
18:51 Podcast hosts should consider providing guests with advance notice of interview questions to allow for more thoughtful, valuable responses, rather than relying on spontaneous reactions.
21:36 Recording and narrating your own audiobook can be a low-cost, rewarding way to connect with your audience, as long as you account for potential audio quality and environmental challenges.
Resources
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