Avsnitt

  • Episode Summary:
    Join Mark Labriola II in this insightful episode of The Friday Habit as he dives into the freelance revolution with Brittany Brewer, a senior account executive at FreeUp. Discover Brittany's journey from renovating a school bus for a digital nomad lifestyle to her pivotal role in the freelancing world. This episode covers the impact of COVID-19 on freelancing, the unique approach of FreeUp, and the benefits of leveraging freelancers for business growth.


    Key Takeaways:

    Brittany's transition to the freelancing industry and her significant contributions to FreeUp.How FreeUp distinguishes itself from other freelancing platforms by focusing on quality and a rigorous vetting process.Practical advice for small business owners on utilizing freelancers to scale their operations efficiently.


    Special Offer:
    Brittany offers The Friday Habit listeners an exclusive $50 credit to get started with FreeUp. Visit freeuppod.com to claim your credit and find the perfect freelancer for your needs.


    Episode Highlights:

    The evolution of freelancing and how it has become a viable career path post-COVID-19.The advantages of using FreeUp to connect with top-tier freelancers for your business needs.Brittany's personal journey from a traditional job to embracing a digital nomad lifestyle.Strategies for effectively integrating freelancers into your business model.


    Connect with Us:
    For more episodes and resources to help grow your business, visit thefridayhabit.com. Have questions or feedback? Email us at [email protected].


    Call to Action:
    Don't let fear hold you back from exploring the potential of freelancing for your business. Reach out to FreeUp to find out how they can support your growth with their curated network of freelancers.


  • Episode Summary:

    In this episode of The Friday Habit, hosts Mark Labriola and Benjamin Manley sit down with Ian Campbell, CEO of Nucleus Research. Ian shares his extensive experience and insights into the world of investigative research and how businesses can leverage the concept of Return on Investment (ROI) to enhance sales, improve services, and ultimately win more deals. Whether you're a small business owner, a freelancer, or a creative, this conversation is packed with valuable advice on how to prove ROI and focus your efforts to grow your business.


    Key Takeaways:

    The Importance of ROI: Ian emphasizes the significance of demonstrating the value of investments to potential clients. He discusses how understanding and presenting ROI can be a game-changer in sales and business development.Three Ways to Deliver Value: Ian breaks down the three core ways businesses can deliver value to their clients: increasing productivity, decreasing costs, or boosting profitability. He explains how aligning your services with these value propositions can significantly impact your sales approach.The Power of Focusing on Niches: The conversation highlights the importance of specialization and focusing on what you do best. Ian shares insights into how narrowing down services to meet specific market needs can lead to business growth and success.Actionable Strategies for Value Selling: Ian provides listeners with practical strategies to implement value selling in their business practices. From identifying customer needs to developing a value proposition and quantifying benefits, the discussion is a roadmap for anyone looking to enhance their sales approach.Leveraging Customer Success Stories: The importance of using customer success stories and references is discussed. Ian advises on how to effectively use testimonials to demonstrate value and credibility to potential clients.


    Action Item:

    Identify the top two or three ways your business delivers value to its clients. Focus on these aspects in your marketing and sales efforts to communicate the tangible benefits of working with your company.


    Resources Mentioned:

    The Value Sale (Book by Ian Campbell)Nucleus Research


    Connect with Ian Campbell:

    Website: Nucleus ResearchEmail: [email protected]


    About The Friday Habit:

    The Friday Habit is the go-to podcast for business owners, freelancers, and creatives who want to transform their passion into a successful enterprise. Join Mark and Ben every week as they dive into the strategies and insights that can help you make every day feel like Friday.


    Subscribe & Review:

    Don’t miss out on future episodes! Subscribe to The Friday Habit on Apple Podcasts and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us improve and reach more listeners like you.

  • Saknas det avsnitt?

    Klicka här för att uppdatera flödet manuellt.

  • Wondering how businesses can make the most of their resources to boost earnings? Curious about the role of financial and tax management in the real estate sector? Well, you're in luck because we've got the answers for you in the latest episode of The Friday Habit. This is part two of our conversation with Dan Templin, where we're going to delve into the fascinating world of property utilization and explore how savvy entrepreneurs can use cutting-edge software solutions to offer flexibility and variety in their rental setups.

    But that's not all – we're also going to dive deep into financial strategies. We'll take a closer look at LLC structuring, cost segregation studies, and 1031 exchanges and how they can lead to some serious savings. And hey, who doesn't love credit card rewards, right? We're going to show you how entrepreneurs can really cash in on those rewards if they master the art.

    And as we wrap things up, we'll share some final thoughts on the importance of having a well-rounded perspective when it comes to managing your business and property. So don't miss out – tune in for all this and more in part two of our conversation with Dan Templin!

    Main Topics

    Marriage and EntrepreneurshipStrategies on Starting Business with Limited ResourcesNetworking and Communication in BusinessBusiness Structure and Tax StrategiesThe importance of leveraging others' knowledge and expertise

    Episode Links

    https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessman_dan/https://www.thebusinessmandan.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvlEOWw5M-erkL2-7wOlPA

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts
    Spotify
    Google Podcasts

  • Join us on an exciting journey into the world of real estate investment with your hosts, Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley. In this episode, we're here to not only help you grow your wealth but also lay the foundation for a lasting legacy.

    We're joined by a special guest, Dan Templin, a renowned business expert, to provide even more valuable insights.

    We'll uncover the secrets of the property market and draw on the wisdom of seasoned investors, including Dan Templin, to prepare you for the ups and downs of real estate investment. Discover how tangible assets can open up new opportunities and why this sector is a key to financial success for entrepreneurs and creatives alike.

    Our mantra for this episode is to "start small but think big." We'll guide you through the practical steps of entering the world of real estate, beginning with the importance of securing a steady income and building a strong financial foundation. We'll also highlight the potential pitfalls of hasty investments without proper planning.

    Get ready to dive into the nitty-gritty of buying undervalued properties and turning them into profitable investments. With mentorship from experienced realtors, Mark, Benjamin, and our special guest, Dan Templin, will provide insights tailored to your financial situation and the current market conditions.

    So, whether you're a seasoned investor or just starting out, join us for this enlightening journey into the world of real estate investment. It's time to make your money work for you and create a legacy that will endure for generations to come.

    Main Topics

    00:14:55: Owning multiple businesses00:18:03: Expansion into real estate and property ownership00:20:31: Introduction of new property investment system, Plex Hacking.00:22:47: Importance of a well balanced portfolio00:23:24: Lessons from franchising a laundromat

    Episode Links

    https://www.instagram.com/thebusinessman_dan/https://www.thebusinessmandan.com/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCvvlEOWw5M-erkL2-7wOlPA

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Welcome back to part two of our 2-part episode of The Friday Habit! In this installment, we continue our exploration of project management with our special guest, Clint Padgett.

    We're picking up right where we left off, delving into the world of informed scheduling decisions, strategic resource utilization, and the critical role of engagement and transparency in building a sense of ownership among team members.

    Plus, we'll dive deeper into the exciting intersection of technology and project planning, discussing how automation and AI are transforming the field while emphasizing the enduring importance of human collaboration, commitment, accountability, and pride in the work.

    If you missed part one, be sure to catch up, and if you're ready for more insights into project success, you're in the right place!

    Main Topics

    02:05: The importance of people management in project success05:24: The silo effect in companies18:03: The necessity of in-person meetings for connection20:33: Managing by Commitment28:22: The future of project management

    Episode Links

    https://clintonmpadgett.com/https://projectsuccess.com/

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Welcome to another exciting episode of The Friday Habit! Today, we've got a fantastic guest lined up for you. We're catching up with Clint Padgett, a seasoned pro in the world of project management. Clint's not just any project management guru; he's also the president of Project Success, Inc. We'll be diving into some intriguing topics today, focusing on sustainable business growth and how project management plays a crucial role in achieving those long-term success goals.

    Now, let's start by hearing Clint's insights on what he's learned from his father about the core essence of project management. Plus, we'll chat about the significance of operational management and how it all ties into the ambitious pursuit of growing your business.

    But that's not all! Clint has an inspiring journey that we'll be exploring today. He's gone from the Navy to higher education and even worked at The Coca-Cola Company. It's a story that highlights how a strong work ethic and unwavering dedication can take you places. From his time in the military to overcoming some seriously tough working conditions and pursuing higher education, Clint embodies the idea that the harder you work, the luckier you become. So, stay tuned for some incredible insights and stories from Clint Padgett!

    Main Topics

    00:04:15: Entrepreneurship in a small town00:08:57: Clint's experience in the Navy and the shipyard00:11:03: Working at Coca Cola00:14:00: The balance of hard work and perseverance in success00:17:26: The beginning of the journey towards the Olympics00:20:44: Working cross-functional projects00:22:54: Journey from being an employee to the company's CEO

    Episode Links

    https://clintonmpadgett.com/https://projectsuccess.com/

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • In this episode, we have the privilege of interviewing Ron Simmons, a seasoned entrepreneur and former politician. Ron's journey is filled with valuable insights and wisdom that every small business owner and aspiring entrepreneur should hear. Join us as we dive into a conversation about lifelong learning, the secrets to maintaining a successful long-term partnership, taking bold and uncomfortable steps, recognizing opportunities, and finding the perfect balance between faith and entrepreneurship. Ron introduces a unique metaphor—the "red wagon"—to help us understand the different roles and responsibilities in business.

    Key Highlights:

    1. Ron emphasizes the significance of focusing on execution and not letting worries about things beyond your control hold you back. It's all about taking action and making things happen.

    2. Ron shares the importance of finding mentors in various aspects of life and business. These mentors can provide valuable guidance and insights that can make a world of difference in your journey.

    3. Personal growth and reflection are key components of success. Ron encourages us to invest in our personal development and take the time to think and reflect on our goals and progress.

    4. Ron highlights the value of authenticity and transparency in both personal and professional life. Being genuine and honest in your interactions can build trust and credibility.

    5. Challenges are a part of every entrepreneurial journey. Ron's advice? Stay laser-focused on your goals, adapt to changing circumstances, and maintain a positive attitude even in the face of adversity.

  • Welcome to The Friday Habit with your hosts Mark and Ben! In this episode, we have a special guest joining us, Ron Simmons, a seasoned politician who served three terms in the Texas House of Representatives. During his time in the House, Ron was a member of several crucial committees, including Appropriations, Transportation, Elections, Homeland Security, and Business & Industry.

    Join us as Mark, Ben, and Ron engage in an enlightening discourse about harnessing opportunities and maintaining a targeted focus in entrepreneurship. They'll illustrate how seemingly minor engagements can open new windows of opportunity and advise on the importance of concentrated efforts within one's chosen niche.

    Practical steps on optimizing focus and harnessing opportunities will be discussed comprehensively for the benefit of aspiring entrepreneurs. Additionally, our hosts and guest will bring forward the necessity of adapting businesses to client needs and market shifts, emphasizing the balance between innovation and core values.

    Mark, Ben, and Ron will also encourage entrepreneurs to cultivate a culture of continuous innovation, embracing technological advances and building a scalable business infrastructure. Tune into this episode for fresh perspectives on entrepreneurship and strategies for success in the face of evolving markets.

  • In this episode, Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley interview Andre Dantzler from SociallyU. Andre shares his journey from working in the corporate world to starting his own business and the importance of systems and mindset in building a successful business. He emphasizes the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship and the importance of finding alignment in your work. Andre also discusses the balance between work and family life and the process of discovering your identity and purpose. He shares his experience of hiring and growing his team, emphasizing the value of caring for employees and creating a positive customer experience. Andre also highlights the significance of excellence and love in his approach to business. He explains how sharing knowledge and secrets has been revolutionary for his company. Overall, Andre's journey showcases the power of building a team, fostering ownership, and prioritizing the well-being of both employees and customers.

    Takeaways

    Entrepreneurship is not for the faint of heart and requires resilience and optimism.Finding alignment in your work and saying no to opportunities that don't align with your values and strengths is crucial.Balancing work and family life is essential, and it's important to prioritize and be present in each area.Discovering your identity and purpose takes time and self-reflection.Growth in business often requires hiring and surrounding yourself with the right people. Building a successful business requires a systems mindset and the ability to ask the right questions.Hiring employees instead of relying solely on contractors can lead to a more cohesive and committed team.Excellence and love are key guiding principles for creating a positive customer experience.Sharing knowledge and secrets can lead to growth and attract clients who appreciate transparency and value.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to The Friday Habit

    01:01 Guest Introduction: Andre Dantzler from SociallyU

    02:27 Andre's Origin Story and Business Journey

    08:54 Leaving the Corporate World and Starting His Own Business

    13:15 The Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship

    19:19 Balancing Work and Family Life

    25:32 Finding Alignment and Saying No to Opportunities

    29:34 Discovering Identity and Purpose

    35:33 Growth and Hiring in the Business

    35:46 The Importance of Systems and Mindset

    36:46 Challenges and Growth in the Studio

    37:33 The Impact of Growth on Systems

    39:14 Hiring and Financial Considerations

    40:28 The Difference Between Contractors and Employees

    41:48 Creating a Team and Fostering Ownership

    44:31 Building a Sustainable Business

    45:53 The Importance of Excellence and Love

    47:48 Creating a Positive Customer Experience

    50:42 The Role of Hospitality in Shaping Culture

    53:12 The Power of Caring for People

    56:05 The Value of Sharing Secrets and Knowledge

    01:01:42 Connecting with Socially Inclined

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Welcome to another episode of The Friday Habit, where your hosts Mark Labriola II and Benjamin Manley, along with guest Patrick Thean, guide you to strike the right balance between strategy and execution. Tune in as they elaborate on "# CEOs and the Crucial Role of Execution in Business Success." Uncover the deeper layers of effective execution, its pivotal role in transforming grand strategies into tangible results, and the importance of embedding it into your business operations. Learn to foster a rhythm that meshes brilliantly with your execution-focused mindset and how to cultivate it in your organization's day-to-day operations.

    Further, delve into a discussion about stepping up from an enterprising entrepreneur to a strategic CEO. Take away invaluable insights from this enlightening conversation around the common struggles, epiphanies, and identity realization that ensues during this evolution. Whether you are on the path of selling your first enterprise, poised to usher into a new venture, or finding your niche, this episode is sure to provide a trove of wisdom to aid your journey.

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Though Patrick Thean’s list of accomplishments as a CEO, international speaker and best selling author is impressive, his humble attitude is what really draws clients to him. Growing up in Singapore, Patrick experimented early on with small business ideas, selling tape recordings of the World Cup to his friends in grade school. He later came to the United States and graduated from Cornell with an engineering degree, met his wife and founded his first company. Patrick’s business philosophy is both strategic and personal. He doesn’t take himself too seriously and is more interested in executing what he’s promised to his clients. Now he passionately and purposefully coaches business owners to identify a problem that needs solving as the foundation for a successful business plan. His three keys to success are focus, alignment within the team, and accountability to commitments. By consistently reflecting on what can be learned in each interaction with someone, Patrick continues to build a legacy focused on “people to people” relationships.

    Main Topics

    Patrick’s early entrepreneurial spark (01:30)Solve a problem with your business plan (05:25)3 keys to success (08:47)Patrick’s first company (11:00)Repeat the sales pitch (15:15)Learning from every interaction (18:00)Main concepts of his book Rhythm (20:40)

    Episode Links

    https://www.patrickthean.com/new-home

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • In part two of the discussion with storyteller, author, and keynote speaker Mark Carpenter, he shares some of the strategies he employs in telling great stories people will remember. Before utilizing storytelling to teach, lead, sell or inspire, it is important to know the purpose behind telling that story. When the storyteller is clear on why they are sharing a story, they can choose important details to share or discard, and the pacing falls into place. They can also begin to look for experiences to turn into stories that would serve their purpose.

    Mark encourages authenticity in delivering a story. Citing recent groundbreaking research, the neuroscience behind the power of storytelling is compelling. Brain wave activity increases during a story versus simply receiving information. When listeners engage with a story, they access their personal memories in order to find relatability, which solidifies the likelihood they will remember the message. Stories also trigger the brain to release oxytocin, which is the chemical that leads to trust and connectivity. When a storyteller shares authentically with honorable intention, people respond with deeper levels of engagement and buy-in. Not to be used in a manipulative way, the power of storytelling as a leadership skill is growing at the corporate level thanks to pioneers like Mark. Humans have communicated through storytelling for millenia; it only makes sense that forward-thinking leaders would apply the approach to professional development.

    Main Topics

    Using storytelling in sales (01:20)Common roadblocks in developing stories (04:25)Pacing in storytelling (06:50)Impact of stories on the brain (10:00)Increasing relatability chemicals in the brain (15:25)Mark’s current consulting projects (18:30)Workshops for use storytelling as a leadership skill (21:30)

    Episode Links

    https://master-storytelling.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Teaching and storytelling is in Mark Carpenter’s DNA. With decades of experience in corporate communications, marketing, writing, and consulting, Mark now helps people master the art of storytelling to communicate information with purpose. In his work with clients, he often hears objections to storytelling because people don’t believe they have any stories worth telling. As outlined in his book and through his insightful training techniques, Mark guides leaders in crafting extraordinarily powerful stories from seemingly ordinary experiences.

    One of the most important factors in achieving masterful storytelling is clearly defining the purpose of the story. Any experience that evokes an emotional reaction holds within it a lesson. Inspired by Joseph Campbell’s archetypal Hero’s Journey, Mark breaks down story development into three sections: the current state, the conflict, and the change. When leaders use storytelling to relay information, they are transferring the wisdom of experience so that the listener doesn’t need to go through it themselves. As with any professional development skill, storytelling is like a muscle that builds strength through practice and repetition. Most people learn best through stories as they are more engaged and likely to retain the information.

    Main Topics

    Teaching is in Mark’s DNA (04:10)Emotional reactions lead to great stories (07:00)Storytelling as a leadership skill (10:00)Developing storytelling through practice (10:46)How Mark strengthened his storytelling skills (14:05)Storytelling vs. relaying information (15:15)Using stories to teach, lead, sell and inspire (17:45)

    Episode Links

    https://master-storytelling.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • When podcaster, author, and lifelong entrepreneur Justin Jackson co-founded Transistor, a podcast publishing platform, he already had years of experience building a business. As a child and young adult, Justin experimented with writing code and starting businesses in industries that interested him. When he and his wife started their family, the pressure to achieve financial security increased. Though some of his ventures failed, all these experiences were setting him up for his next big achievement. Because of his time being saturated in the market, he was able to catch the right wave at the right time; he’s riding that wave all the way to success.

    Justin’s advice to those looking to start a business is to build something for which people are already searching. Around 2016 when podcasting was just beginning to gain popularity, he noticed that it was still very much a DIY industry. Thus the idea to streamline podcast publication was born. Now Transistor makes creating podcasts accessible for the average person, regardless of their experience with coding and technology. In this way, clients find him instead of having to seek out those who are interested in his product. He’s also invested a lot of intentional time building relationships with his partner and team members. The purpose of owning his own company is to build a beautiful life for himself and those he works with. Every decision is made from this personal stance, and his company continues to grow at the pace that best serves that value.

    Main Topics

    Growing a podcast audience (06:00)Justin’s early love for entrepreneurship (10:45)Understanding the dynamics of your industry (16:00)Inner drive to forge your own path (17:30)Balancing work and family life (22:10)Justin’s introduction to coding (25:30)Inspiration for Transistor (30:15)Slow growth of the business (36:00)Protecting your partnership (43:30)Researching the market (51:12)Expanding the reach for your business (56:00)Ben’s top 5 takeaways (103:00)

    Episode Links

    https://transistor.fm/

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • CFO, author, and entrepreneurial expert Susanne Mariga builds her work around the Profit First system. Profit First allows businesses to scale in ways that increase revenue and keep the cash flowing. This system uses a series of individual bank accounts that are created for specific purposes, such as profit, salary, taxes, and operating expenses. The first bank account to receive funds is the profit account while the last is the operating expenses. Many business owners make the mistake of doing the opposite by prioritizing the expenses for running the company. When there is less money to work with, owners adjust and make decisions using the resources available to them. In Susanne’s book Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises, she helps business owners implement systems that free them from money-related stressors and earn them the salary they deserve. One of the most impactful sections of her book discusses ways to approach taxes strategically so that companies use legal entities to their benefit and subsequently build their wealth. Having financial experts like Susanne and the Mariga Group in your corner can make all the difference in the success and sustainability of your business.

    Main Topics

    Key aspects of the Profit First system (02:30)Financially preparing for tax season (04:30)Using systems that work for you (09:10)How to get started using Profit First (12:05)Seeking professional help with accounting (17:20)Susanne’s book serves minority demographics (19:00)

    Episode Links

    https://marigagroup.comprofitmap.cohttps://susannemariga.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • When Susanne Mariga began helping out at her father’s accounting firm at age 14, she never could have imagined she would end up here. Now, Susanne is a CFO specializing in high net worth strategies for entrepreneurs and is the first millionaire in her family. Her passion is providing business owners with strategies for restructuring their companies with strategies, automations and systems so that profit flows easily. In collaboration with author Mike Michalowicz, Susanne specialized her financial mastery in her book Profit First for Minority Business Enterprises. Having built her own accounting firm, which grew to a highly successful and profitable asset, selling it has allowed her to pursue what she is most passionate about. Working one on one with clients allows her to offer insight and practical expertise so that other businesses can flourish, particularly those that are minority owned and operated. Susanne’s success only adds to her credibility as an entrepreneurial giant in her field.

    Main Topics

    Susanne’s journey into finance (04:45)Daughter’s birth changed her professional trajectory (8:00)The early days of Susanne’s new business (11:35)Building an asset that can create revenue (13:55)Transitioning to a profit first strategy system (15:15)

    Episode Links

    https://susannemariga.com/https://mikemichalowicz.com/profit-first/

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Brandishing his youth as one of his greatest assets, social entrepreneur, inventor, and author Milan Kordestani can’t be contained to a single industry. A business visionary from a young age, Milan began his first financial endeavor in middle school by breeding and selling rare species of turtles. From there he continued following his natural interests which extended into writing and creating space for people to talk about challenging topics. He founded a series of startups including a freelancing site, a publishing company, and a record label. Through these experiences, he gained business knowledge and clarity about his role pertaining to startups— Milan is a small business incubator.

    One of Milan’s favorite parts of building a company is getting it off the ground. He enjoys being the boots on the ground, identifying problems he might be able to solve for a specific demographic, and finding the right people to build a dream. As soon as it’s time to talk about scaling the business, he’s usually onto another project. Instead of succumbing to imposter syndrome, Milan chooses to see his youth as a strength. Through his publications, he is passionate about using his voice and unique perspective to make big changes in the world. By combining his love for entrepreneurship and his heart for bringing people together, he stands out as a leader in his generation seeking to make the world a better place.

    Main Topics

    Milan’s early entrepreneurial experience as a reptile breeder (02:55)The roots of an entrepreneurial spirit (05:30)Youth perspective in the agriculture industry (08:45)Milan’s love of sharing his perspective through writing (11:45)Overcoming imposter syndrome (13:15)Milan’s first real company (14:55)I’m Just Saying shares tools for active listening and sharing (20:50)The process of starting multiple companies (25:10)Vetting new ideas (30:00)

    Episode Links

    https://www.milankordestani.comhttps://audo.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • CEO and culture creator Meredith Monday Schwartz is passionate about investing in her employees and building a work environment that feels like family. At her wedding venue company, Here Comes the Guide, she works tirelessly to not only hire the best people for her teams but to create a sense of equality amongst them. According to Meredith, the value of an employee is not measured by how much time they spend working. Through clearly communicated key performance indicators, the leadership team at Here Comes the Guide can easily track an individual’s growth and productivity. With a combination of trust and verification, leadership empowers employees to function at their highest capacity.

    Other core values Meredith has built at her female-owned and operated company include investing in the sisterhood, putting relationships before sales, prioritizing work/life balance, and practicing fearless authenticity, especially during conflict. In order to keep drama at bay, she encourages open and honest communication directly with those involved. Through culture-building activities such as company retreats, book clubs, and small group goal setting, she is able to foster a sense of connectivity even though everyone works remotely. By implementing a more human-centered approach, Meredith is building a company that she hopes will be around long after she is gone.

    Main Topics

    The shift to running a fully remote company (03:12)Operating from core values (04:45)

    Hiring the right people (08:45)

    Creating powerful key performance indicators (12:30)Profit splitting between employees (16:30)Sisterhood first at Here Comes the Guide (18:00)Creating culture through core values (22:40)Building relationships through conflict resolution (26:35)Onboarding processes (31:05)

    Episode Links

    https://www.herecomestheguide.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • Meredith Monday Schwartz began her career at the women-powered wedding venue company Here Comes the Guide in 1997 as their first employee; now she’s the CEO. Before onboarding with the company, she was working in a highly stressful environment at a Top 10 legal firm as a paralegal. Seeking more life/work balance, she joined the fledgling team where she put her problem solving skills to work. In the early days, she played every role and learned how to do all the jobs she would eventually hire people to do. Those years of experience helped her develop the empathy and business savvy required to be the strong leader she is today.

    Here Comes the Guide helps couples all across the country find the perfect wedding venue for them. Its business structure is an Employee Stock Ownership Plan, which provides employees with a certain percentage of shareholdings after they’ve worked with the company for one year. This structure creates a sense of buy-in for employees to help the company grow and increase in value. During the global shut down in 2020, possibly one of the greatest challenges for the wedding industry to date, Here Comes the Guide actually flourished. They focused on helping clients navigate the crisis, moved to a four-day work week, and adapted to meet the ever-changing needs of their clientele. Meredith attributes much of the company’s success to their slow growth, grassroots approach that values the culture of the company over any quick profit plan.

    Main Topics

    How Meredith came to be a CEO (01:48)From paralegal work to a wedding venue start-up (04:15)The evolution of her role at Here Comes the Guide (08:35)Benefits of knowing how to do every job at the company (12:40)Systems and processing as a superpower (14:35)Employee stock ownership plan (ESOP) (17:00)How the company grew through the pandemic (19:50)Transitioning from print to virtual (24:20)The value of slow growth (28:40)Adopting a four-day work week (30:00)

    Episode Links

    https://www.herecomestheguide.com

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts

  • In part two of the discussion with independent filmmaker Stimson Snead, he shares what it takes to succeed in the film industry. His advice to younger generations seeking to pursue creative endeavors is to leverage your unique gifts and resources. Don’t trust anyone who tries to sell you a one-size-fits-all formula for success because everyone walks a different path using their own tools and networks. Stimson’s wisdom, gleaned from years of failed attempts that eventually led to profitable achievements, applies to business as well as artistic pursuits. Even though people often discuss business and art as separate entities, Stimson believes they can work together. Now directing his first feature film, Tim Travers and the Time Traveler’s Paradox, he’s leaning into both his mastery of logistics and his trademark sarcastic humor to bring this dream to fruition. It takes great skill to marry both the right and left hemispheres of the brain in one project. For those seeking creative expression through their business, take the lead from Snead and learn the necessary people skills required to lead your team well.

    Main Topics

    Stimson’s advice to aspiring filmmakers (01:40)Necessary skills for making art your business (05:00)First feature film (07:50)Developing the script for Tim Travers and the Time Traveler’s Paradox (12:12)Building the film with score, color and effects (16:15)Process of distributing the film (21:20)

    Episode Links

    https://stimsonsnead.comhttps://www.instagram.com/stimsonsnead

    Go to TheFridayHabit.com to find show notes for this episode. There you can also find links to our websites and ways to get in touch. At the bottom of the page you can download our guide to the Friday Habit system that will show you how to set aside one full day each week dedicated to working on your business instead of in your business.

    If you enjoyed this episode please subscribe and leave us a review in the Apple podcasts app.

    If you have a question or a topic you’d like us to cover don’t forget to record us a quick voice memo and send it to [email protected]

    Thanks for listening to The Friday Habit.

    Until next time. Live every day like it’s Friday.

    Listen, rate, and subscribe!

    Apple Podcasts

    Spotify

    Google Podcasts