Interview
1171: One Poet’s Journey: Discover the Healing Power of Nature with Retired Physician and Author James C. Glassford
The constant demands of modern life can quickly become exhausting, with a never-ending list of tasks and deadlines. Always focusing on what's next often leaves little space for personal downtime or moments to relax and recharge. In such a fast-paced environment, finding time for self-care and mindfulness is crucial to maintaining balance and overall well-being.
James Glassford is the author of “One Poet's Journey” and a retired physician who has found a deep connection with the natural world. Growing up in a small, isolated hamlet in the Far North, James developed a profound appreciation for the beauty and solace of the great outdoors. Throughout his life, he has explored the wilderness through activities like hiking and biking, finding that immersing himself in nature has a profound effect on his mental and emotional well-being. Today, James discusses his journey of self-discovery and the role that nature has played in his personal transformation. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“The world is bigger than your problems. If you allow yourself to see the bigger picture, you'll realize your problems are small compared to everything else. By putting yourself and your problems in perspective, you can begin to heal from within.” - James C. Glassford
"There is a pleasure in the pathless woods. There's a rapture on the lonely shore. There is society where none intrudes, by the deep sea, and music in its roar. I love not man the less, but nature more.’ Nature has so much to offer that you should take it in and ignore the stressors imposed on you by yourself or others. Live your life accordingly." - James C. Glassford
“Life is a gift to be used every day, and if you use it properly, it will reward you.” - James C. Glassford
Takeaways
02:30 Embracing nature can help melt away stress and provide a sense of perspective on life's challenges.
14:26 Pushing oneself, both mentally and physically, can lead to a sense of accomplishment and personal growth.
15:36 Finding small ways to incorporate nature into daily life, such as short walks or time in the garden, can provide relaxation and stress relief.
18:46 Putting problems in perspective and recognizing the bigger picture can help reduce the burden of stress and anxiety.
21:26 Sharing one's experiences and insights through creative outlets, like poetry, can inspire and help others find their own path to wellness.
Resources
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1170: The Science of Effective Selling: Proven Strategies with Business Coach Wes Schaeffer “The Business Fixer”
It’s incredibly frustrating when your sales efforts aren’t yielding the results you want, especially when you’re putting in the time and energy. Sometimes it feels like you’re fighting an uphill battle, struggling to cut through all the noise and truly connect with your prospects. In today’s crowded market, standing out can be tough, but it might be a sign to revisit your approach and focus more on building authentic, meaningful relationships with your audience.
Wes Schaeffer “The Business Fixer” is a business coach, host of “The Sales Podcast,” and the author of “It Takes More Than a Big Smile, a Good Idea & a Twitter Account To Build a Business That Lasts.” As an Air Force veteran, father of seven, and brown belt in Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, Wes has a diverse background that has shaped his unique perspective on sales and entrepreneurship. Today, Wes shares his insights on the common misconceptions surrounding sales, emphasizing the importance of listening, asking the right questions, and providing genuine value to customers. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“The best salespeople are the best listeners, and they truly seek to serve.” - Wes Schaeffer
"Invest in yourself. Your company is rarely going to invest in you the way you want or need. They’re unlikely to give you enough leads to hit your own number, and as soon as you succeed, they’ll raise your target. It’s just how it is." - Wes Schaeffer
“Sales is the straw that stirs the drink. Nothing happens until a sale is made, so embrace the profession. To sell is to serve. If you embrace it and approach it with that attitude, the sky really is the limit.” - Wes Schaeffer
Takeaways
02:05 Reframing the perception of sales as a profession focused on serving and solving problems, rather than being pushy or greedy, is important for success.
11:43 Developing a consistent, repeatable sales process with specific daily and weekly activities is crucial for achieving sales goals.
15:27 Effective sales messaging and marketing that is compelling and differentiates a company is essential for attracting the right customers.
18:32 Investing in personal development and sales training, rather than relying solely on the company, can help salespeople adapt and thrive in changing environments.
25:22 Maintaining a positive, committed attitude and bringing one's "A-game" consistently, even when the work becomes routine, can lead to breakthroughs and new ideas.
Resources
- Wes Schaeffer: Fix Your Messaging, Grow Your Sales, Live Life On Your Terms
- Wes Schaeffer on LinkedIn
- Wes Schaeffer on Facebook
- It Takes More Than a Big Smile, a Good Idea & a Twitter Account To Build a Business That Lasts by Wes Schaeffer on Amazon
- The Sales Podcast by Wes Schaeffer on Apple Podcasts
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1169: Ascend EQ: Simplify Your Business and Amplify Your Success with Founder and CEO Natalyn Lewis
Being an entrepreneur can be an emotional rollercoaster, especially when imposter syndrome and self-doubt creep in. It’s easy to fall into the trap of comparing your progress to others, which often leaves you feeling like you’re not doing enough or falling behind. Building a business is a tough journey, and these feelings are incredibly common, but it’s important to remember that success looks different for everyone, and you're likely doing better than you think.
Natalyn Lewis is the Founder and CEO of Ascend EQ and the author of “What Are You Worth?” She is a serial entrepreneur who has built and sold seven companies over the course of her career and has dedicated her work to helping others develop emotional intelligence. Today, Natalyn shares insights from her own entrepreneurial journey, discussing the importance of understanding one's personal values and vision before starting a business. She emphasizes the need to avoid the trap of over-planning and instead focus on taking consistent, actionable steps towards a clear goal. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“If you want to build something that's real, where you're not comparing yourself to everyone else, start by figuring out who you are first.” - Natalyn Lewis
"We're all living in cages with the doors wide open. For 99.9% of people, that cage is emotional—it’s the fear of failure, the imposter syndrome, the fear of the unknown, uncertainty, doubt, and self-deprecation." - Natalyn Lewis
“We are unbelievably powerful individuals with intensely powerful potential. However, there is a rope holding us back, and it’s not real. It just feels real; it is learned and patterned. It’s time to break that pattern.” - Natalyn Lewis
Takeaways
01:19 Focusing on both growth and profitability is crucial for successful Amazon businesses.
07:36 Optimizing product pages with detailed, visually appealing content can significantly improve conversion rates and customer experience.
13:12 Addressing operational inefficiencies, such as packaging and FBA fees, can lead to substantial cost savings and increased profitability.
20:13 Balancing advertising strategies with organic optimization practices is key to achieving long-term, sustainable growth on Amazon.
27:54 Seeking expert guidance can help businesses overcome challenges and unlock their full potential on the Amazon platform.
Resources
- Ascend EQ: The Leading Framework for Emotional Wellness
- Natalyn Lewis on Facebook
- Natalyn Lewis on LinkedIn
- What Are You Worth? by Natalyn Lewis on Amazon
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:07 — 41.5MB) | Embed
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1168: ROI Swift: Win on Amazon with Optimized Content and Achieve Scalable, Profitable Success with VP of Operations Peter Eickholt
Growing a brand on Amazon can be tricky, especially when you’re always trying to keep up with the latest trends and strategies. It often feels like a never-ending race, and despite your efforts, profits can still take a hit. With so many moving parts—like product listings, reviews, and advertising—it’s easy to get lost in the noise without seeing the return on investment you hoped for.
Peter Eickholt is the VP of Operations at ROI Swift, a company that delivers results-driven strategies to help brands grow profitably on Amazon. With a deep understanding of the Amazon marketplace, Peter is passionate about guiding businesses to navigate the platform successfully and avoid common pitfalls. Today, Peter discusses the importance of optimizing product content and advertising strategies to drive both growth and profitability. He shares insights on common challenges faced by Amazon sellers, such as inefficient product pages and suboptimal packaging, and how addressing these issues can significantly improve a brand's performance on the platform. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“It’s easy to spend more on ads and grow your top-line revenue, but if you’re not keeping your costs in line and maintaining profitability, it’s going to catch up with you in the long run.” - Peter Eickholt
"The biggest thing we see is usually related to content. Brands often come to us, and they simply don’t know what they don’t know." - Peter Eickholt
“Proper planning prevents poor performance. Make sure you're planning and focusing on where the future is headed and where you want to go.” - Peter Eickholt
Takeaways
01:26 Focusing on both growth and profitability is crucial for successful Amazon businesses.
04:46 Optimizing product pages with detailed, visually appealing content can significantly improve conversion rates and customer experience.
09:44 Addressing operational inefficiencies, such as packaging and FBA fees, can lead to substantial cost savings and increased profitability.
13:57 Balancing advertising strategies with organic optimization practices is key to achieving long-term, sustainable growth on Amazon.
19:22 Seeking expert guidance can help businesses overcome challenges and unlock their full potential on the Amazon platform.
Resources
- ROI Swift: Results-Driven Strategies for Your Amazon to Drive Profitable Growth
- Peter Eickholt on LinkedIn
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1167: Boost Your Leadership Skills and Find True Fulfillment with Human Resources Leader Rich “The HR Guy” Salon
Feeling unfulfilled in your career can be incredibly frustrating, especially when each day feels like a repetitive cycle of disengagement and monotony. It’s tough when your work no longer excites or challenges you, leaving you questioning if this is where you're meant to be. Sometimes, that sense of stagnation is a sign it’s time to explore new opportunities or make changes that can reignite your passion and sense of purpose.
Rich Salon, the “HR Guy,” is a seasoned Human Resources leader, the author of “Career Trust: Fifty-Two Doses of Reality To Help You Find Career Fulfillment,” and a career transition coach who has dedicated his life to helping people find fulfillment in their work. With extensive experience in leadership roles at major companies like Home Depot, Circuit City, Penske, and Lowe's, Rich has a deep understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing today's workforce. Today, Rich shares his insights on the importance of moving beyond just employee engagement and striving for true career fulfillment. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“My life's purpose is to help people and make the world a better place. My career purpose is to assist individuals in finding the fulfillment they seek.” - Rich Salon
"Find something that you're passionate about—something that thrills and excites you. You’ll perform better and be more inclined and inspired to help others along the way." - Rich Salon
“Human resources professionals are built to serve. We're designed to support others; it's not about us, and it never has been.” - Rich Salon
Takeaways
02:26 Finding career fulfillment is more important than just employee engagement, as it provides a deeper sense of purpose and excitement.
11:16 Effective leaders need to seek feedback and understand how they are perceived by others, not just rely on their own self-assessment.
14:05 Providing encouragement and opportunities for growth can help shy or introverted employees step out of their comfort zone and achieve more than they thought possible.
23:25 Helping others and making a positive impact can be a fulfilling way to leave a lasting legacy, even after retirement.
26:44 Maintaining a "pay-it-forward" mentality and finding energy in assisting others can help sustain one's drive to be helpful and engaged.
Resources
- Rich Salon on LinkedIn
- Rich Salon on Facebook
- Career Trust: Fifty-Two Doses of Reality To Help You Find Career Fulfillment by Rich Salon on Amazon
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 31:11 — 43.0MB) | Embed
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1166: Unmask the Dark Secrets of the Zionist World Order with Author Herman Hearl
It’s intriguing to think about the hidden forces that might shape the world behind the scenes, especially when it comes to secret societies and the mysteries surrounding their influence. The idea that powerful groups operate in the shadows, driving certain agendas, can spark both fascination and unease. Whether it’s through conspiracy theories or historical accounts, these organizations have long captured our imaginations, raising questions about how much control they really hold over global events.
Herman Hearl is the author of the book "Zion: World Order," a captivating exploration of the hidden world of secret societies and their sinister agendas. Drawing from his own personal experiences with being targeted by these clandestine groups, Herman weaves a thrilling narrative that blends fact and fiction, shedding light on the occult origins and true intentions of organizations like the Freemasons, Illuminati, and Zionists. Today, Herman Hearl discussed his book's premise, which delves into the 200-year-old ideology driving these secret societies, their pursuit of power and control through wars and criminal activities, and his own harrowing journey of escape and resistance against their machinations. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“I wanted to help people who found themselves in the same situation I did, to acknowledge their presence and take action if needed. This could mean spreading information or simply finding a way to get away from certain societies. Knowledge is a weapon.” - Herman Hearl
"It’s all about business, because the more business and money they make, the more power they gain, and the more influence they have." - Herman Hearl
“I would rather pursue a place of non-freedom, whether it's a person or any situation involving isolation, because eventually, you get the sense that you've managed to express yourself. In doing so, you've exposed the people or entire organizations involved in murders.” - Herman Hearl
Takeaways
01:22 Knowledge is a powerful weapon against secret societies and their agendas.
05:32 Collecting evidence, such as barcodes and number plates, can help expose the activities of these organizations.
08:36 Combining factual information with a compelling fictional narrative can make a book more engaging and impactful.
11:35 Persistence and a willingness to share one's experiences can help raise awareness and protect others from the harms of secret societies.
22:51 Avoiding isolation and actively fighting back against the societies is crucial for targeted individuals.
Resources
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1165: Blaze.ai: How Small Businesses Can Compete through AI-Powered Marketing with CEO Adam Nathan
It’s so common for small business owners and entrepreneurs to feel overwhelmed by the never-ending marketing tasks required to stay relevant online. Between managing social media, writing fresh content, and keeping your website up to date, it can feel like there’s just not enough time in the day. Marketing in the digital age is fast-paced, and without a team to delegate to, staying on top of everything can easily become a challenge.
Adam Nathan is the visionary CEO behind Blaze.ai, a groundbreaking AI-powered marketing platform that is leveling the playing field for small businesses and solo entrepreneurs. As the leader of a company on a mission to make AI accessible to the "teams of one" that power the global economy, Adam has deep expertise in solving the unique challenges faced by small business owners who struggle to keep up with the demands of modern marketing. Today, Adam discusses the power of AI and how it can be leveraged by small businesses to level the playing field against larger competitors. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“The AI we call AI today is, in reality, technology known as large language models, which basically use probability to answer questions. It feels like magic, but I think what really matters to us is what this technology can do for real people.” - Adam Nathan
"Just because you're small doesn't mean you can't be great." - Adam Nathan
“You don't know when an opportunity is going to come along, but you can be prepared for what you want and claim those chances when they arise. I believe that doing your homework on the important things in life often helps you succeed.” - Adam Nathan
Takeaways
01:20 AI technology, like large language models, can be leveraged to solve real-world problems and create value for businesses, rather than just showcasing its capabilities.
05:12 Blaze.ai is a tool designed to help small businesses and teams of one create personalized, high-quality content across various platforms, leveling the playing field against larger competitors.
09:41 Blaze.ai's features, such as brand voice and brand styles, ensure the generated content aligns with the business's unique tone, style, and branding.
15:36 Integrating AI-powered tools can save small businesses significant time and effort in content creation, allowing them to focus on other aspects of their business.
28:56 Preparation and opportunity are the keys to success. While you can't control when opportunities arise, you can control how prepared you are to seize them.
Resources
Podcast: Play in new window | Download (Duration: 30:44 — 42.4MB) | Embed
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1164: The Pam Pum Experience: Explore Podcast Guest Booking with Pam Pum Founder and CEO Mitko Ivanov
As an expert or entrepreneur, it can feel disheartening when your voice doesn’t seem to stand out or you're finding it hard to establish credibility in your field. You may notice others gaining visibility through opportunities like podcast features and wonder if you're being left behind. It’s tough when you want to share your knowledge but aren't sure how to access these platforms.
Mitko Ivanov is the host of “The Pam Pum Experience” podcast and the founder and CEO of Pam Pum, a fractional podcast placements agency that has helped over 170 experts and entrepreneurs secure placements on 1,800 podcasts. Praised for his ability to match "great minds" with the right podcast audiences, Mitko has cracked the code on leveraging the power of podcasting to help his clients build trust, authority, and brand awareness. Today, Mitko discusses the core services of Pam Pum, which include connecting experts and entrepreneurs with podcast guesting opportunities to create epic experiences and global impact. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“We’re in the business of connecting brilliant minds to create epic experiences and make a global impact in the podcasting space.” - Mitko Ivanov
"If you’ve reached the point where you recognize the power of sharing your story on podcasts, using the services of a well-established podcast guest booking agency could be the way to go for multiple reasons." - Mitko Ivanov
“To be a great podcast guest, authenticity is key. To achieve that, slow down, recharge on weekends, and reconnect with yourself—this will allow for true, unscripted conversation rather than repetitive, interview-style responses. Keep exploring who you are; there's no single answer, but that journey is the key to performing well.” - Mitko Ivanov
Takeaways
02:05 Exploring synergies and partnerships can unlock new growth opportunities beyond just podcast guesting.
09:57 Providing value, not just promoting oneself, is the key to getting invited back as a podcast guest.
12:15 Managing client expectations and aligning their authority level with host requirements is essential for successful podcast placements.
22:42 Combining podcast guesting with other marketing channels can create an impactful omnichannel presence.
35:57 Authenticity and recharging are crucial for great podcast guest performance.
Resources
- Pam Pum: The Podcast Guest Booking Agency You’ve Been Dreaming Of
- Mitko Ivanov on LinkedIn
- The Pam Pum Experience on Apple Podcasts
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1163: Optics In: Conquer the Search Engine Game and Elevate Your Online Presence with Optics In Founder and CEO Nick Musica
Getting your business found online can be challenging, especially with the constantly evolving landscape of SEO. It’s easy to feel frustrated when you're unsure about the latest trends or how to effectively implement strategies. Navigating these changes can make it tough to know where to start or how to get your business noticed.
Nick Musica is the SEO mastermind behind Optics In. With over 15 years of hands-on experience, Nick has honed his expertise in helping businesses dominate their online presence and outshine the competition. Today, Nick discusses the fundamentals of SEO, including the importance of ranking on the first page of search results, understanding different types of search queries, and developing a comprehensive SEO strategy that encompasses technical optimization, content creation, and link building. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“There’s only so much you can do on-page. Sometimes, if you’re not doing anything on-page, let’s start there and see how far we get. But sometimes, we do need the air cover of backlinks.” - Nick Musica
"We are very deliberate and purposeful in how we fill and address gaps. We wait until the problem is significant enough to warrant a different approach before taking action." - Nick Musica
“Look at any marketing tactic as just that—a tactic—and optimize it. Work on it until it becomes operational and maintainable. Then move on to another tactic.” - Nick Musica
Takeaways
01:40 SEO is crucial for businesses to be found by potential customers searching online, and ranking on the first page of search results is essential.
04:15 Focusing on the right keywords that drive business, rather than just trying to rank for any keyword, is key to an effective SEO strategy.
07:27 A comprehensive SEO approach includes technical website optimization, targeted content creation, and building relevant backlinks.
24:27 Patience and a long-term mindset are required for SEO, as it is a gradual process of building an online presence and authority.
28:44 Diversifying marketing efforts and not relying solely on any one tactic, such as SEO, is important for the overall health and resilience of a business.
Resources
- Optics In: Get Ready To Be Found
- Nick Musica on LinkedIn
- When Search Meets Web Usability (Voices That Matter) by Nick Musica & Shari Thurow on Amazon
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1162: Overcome Adversity and Lead with Authenticity with Author and Sharp Executive Leadership CEO Carl H. Sharperson, Jr.
Staying true to yourself can be difficult when you’re faced with obstacles that challenge your resilience and values. It takes courage to balance strength with vulnerability, especially when you're dealing with tough situations. In moments like these, staying authentic is key, even when it feels easier to compromise. Showing both your strength and vulnerability not only helps you navigate these challenges but also inspires others around you.
Carl H. Sharperson, Jr. is a true renaissance man and leadership expert. With a remarkable background spanning the military, corporate world, and personal triumphs over adversity, Carl has developed an unparalleled ability to help others overcome challenges and lead with authenticity. Today, Carl shares powerful insights on overcoming adversity, developing unbreakable resilience, the importance of communication and body language, and the keys to finding one's true purpose and helping others succeed. Stay tuned!
Quotes
“As a young person, I developed a mindset: it's not what you call me, it's what I answer to. I didn’t let bullies or negative comments from others take me off my path.” - Carl H. Sharperson, Jr.
"All of the things I've accomplished and am most proud of came through struggle. They didn't come easy." - Carl H. Sharperson, Jr.
“Everybody wants the same things: to be loved, to be respected, and to be successful.” - Carl H. Sharperson, Jr.
Takeaways
02:40 Developing a mindset of perseverance and never quitting, even in the face of adversity, can lead to significant achievements.
05:05 Seeking out and learning from role models and mentors who have overcome their own struggles can provide valuable insights and inspiration.
07:26 Focusing on what can be controlled, rather than getting overwhelmed by uncontrollable factors, is a key strategy for managing stress and navigating challenging situations.
14:23 Effective communication and building rapport are essential for gaining trust, credibility, and the ability to help others.
16:34 Gaining diverse experiences and understanding one's purpose and gifts can lead to unexpected but fulfilling paths in life.
Resources
- Sharp Leadership: Get Razor Sharp Strategies for Leaders
- Carl Sharperson, Jr. on LinkedIn
- Carl Sharperson, Jr. on Facebook
- Sharp Leadership: Overcome Adversity to Lead with Authenticity by Carl Sharperson, Jr.
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