CEO Podcasts: CEO Chat Podcast + I AM CEO Podcast Powered by Blue16 Media & CBNation.co

IAM2423 - Organizational Development Consultant Helps Start-ups and Non-Profits Tell Their Story Digitally

Nahamani Yisrael is an Organizational Development Consultant and Senior Webmaster at Nahamani.org. 

 

Nahamani holds a BSBA from Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio, and is a certified Ice House Entrepreneurship Program Facilitator.

 

She was recognized as one of Natural Woman Magazine's Top 10 Women of the Year in 2017 and 100 Wise Women of Cincinnati in 2018.

 

Nahamani explains that she started Nahamani.org to help small businesses and nonprofits communicate their value, build good websites, and solve problems as they grow.

 

She emphasizes that businesses often struggle to take an objective view of their operations, particularly at the 3-5 year mark, and that's where consulting services like hers are crucial.

 

Nahamani builds genuine relationships from networking events by following up with people she meets, providing value, and fostering long-term connections.

 

She reflects on times when fear prevented her from taking opportunities, and she urges others to face their fears head-on.

 

Furthermore, Nahamani recognizes that her role extends beyond running a business—it’s about guiding people’s growth.

 

Website: Nahamani.org

LinkedIn: Nahamani Yisrael 

Facebook: Nahamani.org

 

Previous Episode: iam250-organizational-development-consultant-helps-start-ups-and-non-profits-tell-their-story-digitally

 

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I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2422 - When to Rebuild: The Signs and Strategies

Gresham reflects on one of the challenging aspects of entrepreneurship and personal growth—knowing when to pivot or stop.

 

Gresham explains that society often teaches us not to quit, but there’s a time for persistence and knowing when to let go.

 

He emphasizes that complexity can be a barrier, so simplifying processes is essential. Simplification doesn’t mean lowering standards; it’s about making things easier for your team and customers.

 

Gresham recommends that having boundaries—such as simplifying a process—can increase creativity.

 

He underscores the importance of having faith—not only in the process but also in yourself. If a pivot doesn’t work out, it doesn’t mean failure; it’s just part of the journey.

 

Gresham highlights the significance of understanding the why behind what you're doing, rather than getting bogged down in the how.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2421 - Embrace the Run: Focus on Progress

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless shares how he’s using ChatGPT to help him work through business ideas. He calls it his "CEO hack," noting that it serves as a virtual sounding board for brainstorming and coaching. 

 

He discusses recalibrating his 12-week goals, realizing that some earlier targets weren’t as realistic or achievable as he thought. 

 

Gresham also recognizes that while securing sales, building a strong lead-generation foundation is critical for long-term success. He mentions experimenting with both buying leads and focusing on generating his leads.

 

Gresham explains the difference between lead measures (actions you take daily that drive results) and lag measures (the delayed results, like sales, that come after). 

 

He discusses the reality of a long sales cycle in the franchise industry, acknowledging that it can take several months (or even a quarter) to convert a lead into a sale. 

 

In addition, Gresham highlights the importance of staying accountable to his goals and regularly checking that his lead measures are working.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2420 - Leads: To Buy or Not to Buy?

In this special episode, Gresham Harkless acknowledges that he has the advantage of an additional marketing company, but he recognizes that growth and success don’t come instantly and that there’s a lot of experimentation involved.

 

He notes that he hasn’t worked with franchise brokers, franchisees, or anything related to franchising before, which means it’s all new territory for him. Despite this, he’s excited about the opportunity, as it could open up a new avenue for leads and business growth.

 

Gresham believes that buying leads is always an option but wonders if it makes sense to pursue it immediately or if he should give other strategies a chance first.

 

Gresham reflects on the importance of understanding one’s comfort zone when making decisions, particularly when people are dissatisfied with their current jobs or situations and looking for new opportunities.

 

In addition, he considers that the number of people interested in buying franchises isn’t as large as those interested in digital marketing, but he sees it as a growing market.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2419 - Founder Helps Businesses Transform Their Client Engagement with Innovative Gifts

Dean Stanzel is the founder of Top of Mind Gifts and Strategic 3D Cards. Dean’s business focuses on providing creative and memorable gifts, such as Cutco knives and pop-up cards. 

 

Dean emphasizes his mission to create Top of Mind Awareness through carefully chosen gifts. He explains that having a client say they would refer you doesn’t automatically mean they will; it’s all about staying fresh in their minds. 

 

He believes it’s important to understand your clients and employees, taking time to empathize with their needs and frustrations.

 

Dean highlights the importance of truly understanding and connecting with others, whether clients, employees, or colleagues. 

 

Dean recommends the book "Giftology" by John Ruhlin, which teaches how to use gifts to build strong relationships and foster business growth.

 

In addition, Dean emphasizes the importance of creating an environment where people feel valued and appreciated, which drives them to put in extra effort and go the extra mile for the organization.

 

Website: Top of Mind Gifts 

LinkedIn: Dean Stanzel

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2418 - Framework Designer Transforms Ideas into Impactful Visuals Using The Frame Method

Phil Lashley is a sought-after framework designer specializing in visual storytelling, with over 15 years of experience creating custom visuals and animations to simplify complex concepts.

 

His work has been featured by major brands like The Drew Barrymore Show, Adobe, Microsoft, and HarperCollins Christian Publishing.

 

His passion led him to study Visual Effects and Motion Graphics at the Art Institute, though he initially struggled to grasp how commercials were produced.

 

Phil’s approach is like a visual translator—he helps clients clarify their message and uses visuals to make it unforgettable.

 

Phil emphasizes the value of childlike imagination in staying creative. He believes that as adults, many people lose touch with their innocent creativity because of societal limitations.

 

In his work, Phil keeps his team small and virtual but ensures constant communication and support for those who work with him.

 

Phil also believes creative expression can be the shortcut to making ideas unforgettable and achieving impactful results.

 

Website: Phil Lashley TheFrameMethod

LinkedIn: Phil Lashley

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2417 - Certified Health and Wellness Coach Helps People Build Health

Gwendolyn Jones shares her insights from the conference, discussing how it reaffirmed her belief in the power of pursuing dreams and visions given by God. 

 

Gwendolyn talks about her health struggles in her 50s, including weight gain, high blood pressure, diabetes, and depression—all linked to stress.

 

As she lost weight and regained her health, she realized the importance of addressing belly fat for overall wellness and, thus, began helping others with the same issue.

 

She provides guidance on how to set goals and manage expectations and shows measurable results in just six weeks, such as a reduction in waist sizes and improved energy levels.

 

Gwendolyn’s unique approach focuses specifically on belly fat, addressing its underlying causes, like fatigue, sleep issues, and joint pain. 

 

She stresses the importance of establishing healthy habits early to prevent future health issues. 

 

Website: Eliminate Belly Phat  

LinkedIn: Dr. Gwendolyn Jones

 

Previous Episode: iam244-certified-health-and-wellness-coach-helps-people-build-health

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2416 - Young Baker Passionate about Baking and Make-up

Dominique of Baked Beans Bakeries explains that her aunt started her cupcake business to raise money for her son, who has developmental challenges with his limbs. Over time, the company became a passion project for her aunt. She later expanded to a food truck, which she plans to set up this summer.

 

Dominique explains that she initially considered making her baking business a non-profit, but realized it would be complicated.

 

One cause she is passionate about is mental health, and she hopes to incorporate this into her business’s mission.

 

Dominique acknowledges that she’s still figuring out where she’s headed in life, but feels more confident now about where her interests and passions are taking her.

 

Dominique believes her maturity sets her apart from other preteens, as she wasn’t raised to be loud or overly open about everything in her life. 

 

She emphasizes waiting for God’s calling and trusting that whatever path comes will be right, even if it’s something unexpected.

 

Instagram: bakedbeansbakery

 

Previous Episode: iam241-young-baker-passionate-about-baking-and-make-up

 

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2415 - Turning Challenges Into Triumph

Gresham Harkless discusses the idea of disrupting business norms—challenging traditional methods and doing things differently, even when others may not always understand or approve. 

 

Gresham points out that there’s no single approach to business and entrepreneurship, as each person’s perspective and method is valid, and everyone has their way of "upsetting the apple cart."

 

Gresham shares his journey, noting his experience as a business owner for 11 years and working in a sports franchise where he managed contractors.

 

Gresham is inspired to create a charitable aspect within his business, naming a project "Blue Star" after his family members who passed from cancer, and he wants to donate a portion of business proceeds to cancer research.

 

Furthermore, he encourages people to remain true to themselves and pursue their unique paths, saying that authenticity is key in life and business.

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!

IAM2414 - The Art of Breaking Eggs Confidently

Gresham discusses how sometimes in life and business, you have to break things apart to make something new and better. This idea of “breaking eggs to make an omelet” symbolizes how, to progress, you might need to disrupt or change things completely.

 

He mentions that he is in the process of rethinking and rebuilding his digital marketing business, CBNation, and Blue Star.

 

After running the digital marketing business for 11 years, he has realized that it’s not in the form he initially envisioned, and he still believes in the power of creating media brands and content that solve real-world problems.

 

Gresham points out that true entrepreneurship is all about solving problems. He’s working on refining their purpose and focus so they can offer more targeted solutions.

 

He emphasizes that entrepreneurship is a journey, not a quick fix, and that it takes time to build a successful business.

 

Gresham strives to simplify complicated concepts and make them easily available, ultimately assisting individuals in overcoming obstacles in entrepreneurship.

 

• Blue Star Franchise: http://bluestarfranchise.com
• Browse the Franchise Inventory: https://bluestarfranchise.com/franchise
• Is franchising right for you? Check this out to see: http://bluestarfranchise.com/assessment
• Franchise CEO (A CBNation Site - coming soon) - http://franchiseceo.co

Check out our CEO Hack Buzz Newsletter–our premium newsletter with hacks and nuggets to level up your organization. Sign up HERE. 

I AM CEO Handbook Volume 3 is HERE and it's FREE. Get your copy here: http://cbnation.co/iamceo3. Get the 100+ things that you can learn from 1600 business podcasts we recorded. Hear Gresh's story, learn the 16 business pillars from the podcast, find out about CBNation Architects and why you might be one and so much more. Did we mention it was FREE? Download it today!